VII. EXPLANATION OF IMPACTS TO THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT 



TERRESTRIAL AND AQUATIC LIFE AND HABITATS 



Positive and major impacts to mule deer, wtiite-tailed deer, upland game birds, 

 native species' habitats, and aquatic habitats will occur as a result of management 

 emphasis directed to improve vegetation communities for the benefit of both 

 species of deer and pheasants. 



WATER QUALITY. QUANTITY, AND DISTRIBUTION 



Water quality and quantity will greatly improve with controlled livestock grazing that 

 leaves more residual cover in the uplands and riparian areas. The total amount of 

 water used for irrigation should not differ significantly over past usage. 



GEOLOGY AND SOIL QUALITY. STABILITY. AND MOISTURE 



Major and positive impacts to soil conditions will occur due to reduced livestock 

 trampling in riparian areas and increased forage remaining following grazing 

 treatments. Increased amounts of residual vegetation over the entire area will 

 improve soil fertility, quality, stability, and moisture retention. 



VEGETATION COVER, QUALITY, AND QUANTITY 



Reduction in winter and early spring livestock grazing, with increased pasture rest 

 and rotation, will be a major improvement to plant species composition, coverage, 

 and production. Because deer select/consume more browse and forbs than cattle, 

 increased carrying capacity for deer as a consequence of changed livestock 

 grazing will not nullify the improved vegetative condition. 



AESTHETICS 



Significant improvement of the visual quality of the area will occur as a result of 

 improved vegetative composition, quantity, and quality. 



VIII. HUMAN ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 



POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON HUMAN ENVIRONMENT 



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