No Action: No immediate impact. Future impacts unknown at this time. 



8. Cumulative Effects 



Proposed Action: The Proposed Action may set a precedent for similar 

 conservation projects along the Flathead River. It may encourage the donation 

 or bargain sale of other island properties to FWP depending on the success of 

 the management plan for Coriell and the impact, if any, on neighboring private 

 lands. If FWP implemented additional riparian/wetland projects along the 

 Flathead (conservation easement or purchases), FWP management 

 responsibilities would increase and cause a need for additional service 

 contracts or staff. 



The proceeds of this sale would likely be used by FLT to further their 

 conservation activities. The cumulative effects of these efforts should greatly 

 benefit the physical and biological resources associated with the Flathead River 

 mainstem. This would also benefit the recreational economy, aesthetics and 

 open space needs. It would help encourage the existing rural lifestyle 

 associated with the braided section. 



The project fits in well with existing public ownership patterns and may 

 provide for a variety of future management options. 



Some of the commercial, agricultural, timber, or development rights associated 

 with other lands being placed under a conservation easement could limit some 

 potential future land uses along the river and resulting in lost future taxes to 

 the local government. 



Other socio-economic impacts of the Proposed Action are set forth in the 

 Socio-Economic Assessment report attached to this EA (Appendix C). The 

 cumulative impacts of the Riparian/Wetland Conservation Program were also 

 disclosed in a Final Programmatic EIS issued in September, 1995 by FWP. 



Alternative 1 (Conservation Easement): Same as Proposed Action. 



No Action: If FWP does not purchase the Coriell property, the cumulative 

 biological and socio-economic benefits may not be realized and the potential 

 negative impacts may occur as described under the Proposed Action. On the 

 other hand, if community interest in protecting the Flathead's natural resources 

 continues (due to local efforts such as through the Flathead River Partnership 

 and Flathead Land Trust) some of these cumulative effects of the 

 Riparian/Wetland Conservation Program on the Flathead River may occur 

 regardless of whether or not FWP purchases the Coriell property. Proceeds to 

 FLT from the sale of this property to a private party would likely provide 



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