promote biological diversity in these forests that have experienced a severe decline in the number 

 and intensity of fires. The three main issues that drove development of alternatives were elk 

 security cover, harvesting in old growth, and hydrologic health of the area. Alternative C does 

 reduce the amount of elk security cover available within the analysis area, but not below 

 threshold levels identified by Hillis et al. (1991). Approximately 166.8 acres out of 189.9 acres, 

 which meet Green et al. Old Growth Definition, would be harvested. This alternative also repairs 

 the ditch erosion problem on Bear Creek and reduces other potential sediment delivery to Upper 

 Willow Creek and its tributaries. It would provide long term access for future management of 

 these school trust lands, while protecting and enhancing existing resources. 



36 



