Draft Environmental Assessment · 2021. 4. 19. · Elmer Thomas 334.83 5.30 1939 Quanah Parker...

Draft Environmental Assessment

Expansion of the Fishing Program on Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

April 2021

Prepared byWichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

32 Refuge HeadquartersIndiahoma, OK 73552

Estimated Lead Agency Total CostsAssociated with Developing and

Producing This EA: $10,500

Draft Environmental Assessment for Fishing Expansion at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge ii

Table of ContentsProposed Action .............................................................................................................................. 1

Background ..................................................................................................................................... 1

Purpose and Need for the Action ................................................................................................... 5

Alternatives ..................................................................................................................................... 5

Alternative A—Current Management (No-Action Alternative) .................................................. 5

Alternative B—Expansion of Recreational Fishing (Proposed Action Alternative) .................... 6

Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences ............................................................. 6

Natural Resources ....................................................................................................................... 7

Game Fish—Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth), Crappie (Black, White), Catfish (Channel) .... 7

Nongame Fish—Sunfish Species ............................................................................................. 9

Nontargeted Wildlife and Aquatic Species ........................................................................... 11

Habitat and Vegetation ......................................................................................................... 12

Soils ....................................................................................................................................... 14

Air Quality ............................................................................................................................. 15

Water Quality ........................................................................................................................ 16

Wilderness and Special Use Area .......................................................................................... 17

Visitor Use and Experience ....................................................................................................... 18

Cultural Resources .................................................................................................................... 19

Refuge Management and Operations ...................................................................................... 20

Land Use on the Refuge ........................................................................................................ 20

Administration .......................................................................................................................... 21

Socioeconomics ........................................................................................................................ 22

Local and Regional Economies .............................................................................................. 22

Environmental Justice ............................................................................................................... 23

Monitoring .................................................................................................................................... 24

Summary of Analysis ..................................................................................................................... 24

Alternative A—Current Management (No-Action Alternative) ................................................ 24

Alternative B—Expansion of Recreational Fishing (Proposed Action Alternative) .................. 24

List of Sources, Agencies, and Persons Consulted ........................................................................ 25

Draft Environmental Assessment for Fishing Expansion at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge iii

List of Preparers ............................................................................................................................ 25

State Coordination ........................................................................................................................ 25

Tribal Consultation ........................................................................................................................ 25

Public Outreach ............................................................................................................................. 25

Determination ............................................................................................................................... 26

Signatures ..................................................................................................................................... 26

References .................................................................................................................................... 27

Appendix A. Other Applicable Statues, Executive Orders, and Regulations ................................ 28

Draft Environmental Assessment for Fishing Expansion at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge 1

Environmental Assessment for Fishing Expansion at Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

This draft Environmental Assessment (EA) is being prepared to evaluate the effects associated with the proposed action and complies with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in accordance with Council on Environmental Quality regulations (40 CFR 1500–1509) and Department of the Interior (43 CFR 46; 516 DM 8) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (550 FW 3) regulations and policies. NEPA requires examination of the effects of proposed actions on the natural and human environment. Appendix A outlines all laws and executive orders evaluated through this EA.

Proposed ActionThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is proposing to expand fishing opportunities on Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge (WR) by adding new aquatic education and fishing day clinics on the 11-acre Kiowa Lake located in the refuge’s special use area. Existing fishing opportunities in the public use area on the refuge will be maintained in accordance with the refuge’s 2013 Comprehensive Conservation Plan (USFWS 2012) and 2021 Recreational Fishing Plan. The 2021 Recreational Fishing Plan replaces the 2002 Fishing Plan.

A proposed action may evolve during the NEPA process as the agency refines its proposal and gathers feedback from the public, Tribes, and other agencies. Therefore, the final proposed action may be different from the original. The proposed action will be finalized at the conclusion of the public comment period for the EA.

BackgroundNational wildlife refuges are guided by the mission and goals of the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS), the purposes of an individual refuge, Service policy, and laws and international treaties. Relevant guidance includes the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (NWRSAA ) of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, the Refuge Recreation Act of 1962, and selected portions of the Code of Federal Regulations and the Fish and Wildlife Service Manual.

The refuge was established pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 563, on June 2, 1905. The primary purpose of the refuge is “for the protection of game animals and birds and [it] shall be recognized as a breeding place thereof.”


The mission of the NWRS, as outlined by the NWRSAA, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act (16 U.S.C. 668dd et seq.), is “to administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management and, where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.”

Additionally, the NWRSAA (16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)(4)) mandates the Secretary of the Interior, in administering the NWRS, to

· provide for the conservation of fish, wildlife, and plants, and their habitats within the NWRS;

· ensure that the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the NWRS are maintained for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans;

· ensure that the mission of the NWRS described at 16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)(2) and the purposes of each refuge are carried out;

· ensure effective coordination, interaction, and cooperation with owners of land adjoining refuges and the fish and wildlife agencies of the States in which the units of the NWRS are located;

· assist in the maintenance of adequate water quantity and water quality to fulfill the mission of the NWRS and the purposes of each refuge;

· recognize compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public uses of the NWRS through which the American public can develop an appreciation for fish and wildlife;

· ensure that opportunities are provided within the NWRS for compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses; and

· monitor the status and trends of fish, wildlife, and plants in each refuge.

The Wichita Mountains WR is a tract of 59,020 acres embracing a major portion of the ancient Wichita Mountains in southwestern Oklahoma. Protection of this area dates back to 1901, when it was established as a Forest Reserve by President McKinley, and 1905, when President Theodore Roosevelt redesignated the area as the Wichita Forest and Game Preserve. The long history of preservation of the Wichita Mountains WR has protected this unique and vast land as a reminder of southwestern Oklahoma’s natural conditions prior to European settlement.

On October 23, 1970, 8,570 acres of the refuge were designated as Wilderness by Public Law 91-504. The Wichita Mountains Wilderness Area consists of two units totaling 8,570 acres. The popular Charon’s Garden unit (5,723 acres) is located in the southwestern portion of the refuge, within the public use area; the North Mountain unit (2,847 acres) is located in the north-central part of the refuge within the refuge’s special use area.


The “Special use area” is an administrative designation for an area with restricted public access, intended to benefit natural conditions and allow for natural processes. The special use area covers 34,932 acres of the northwestern part of the refuge. The public use area of the refuge is administratively designated as an area for public access, intended to benefit public use opportunities, including hunting and fishing, and promote awareness of the refuge’s wildlife and habitats. The public use area covers 24,088 acres of the southern and southeastern portions of the refuge.

The Wilderness Act of 1964 (Public Law 88-577, September 3, 1964) provides the following purposes for designated wilderness areas:

1. To secure an enduring resource of wilderness2. To protect and preserve the wilderness character of areas within the National

Wilderness Preservation System3. To administer [the areas] for the use and enjoyment of the American people in a

way that will leave them unimpaired for future use and enjoyment as wilderness

Public fishing on the refuge has been allowed since the 1930s, when most of the reservoirs were constructed (Table 1). Fishing within the public use area is available 24 hours a day on ponds and reservoirs totaling 640 acres (Figure 1). Fishing occurs primarily from the bank or fishing structures, and boats are allowed on some lakes with restrictions.

TABLE 1.—Public fishing reservoirs within the public use area of the Wichita Mountains WR, and proposed reservoir for expansion of fishing opportunities.

Lake name Acres Shoreline miles Year BuiltElmer Thomas 334.83 5.30 1939Quanah Parker 88.96 3.69 1936Jed Johnson 56.66 2.73 1940Rush 51.04 2.49 1936French 28.39 2.10 1936Caddo 10.59 1.00 1934Lost 10.30 1.22 1926Crater 9.25 0.60 1934Burford 6.30 0.83 1933Osage 4.78 0.56 1934Treasure 3.24 0.59 1933Post Oak 2.69 0.48 1935Kiowa (proposed expansion) 10.82 0.61 1936


FIGURE 1.—Map of public use area lakes and ponds.


Purpose and Need for the ActionThe purpose of this proposed action is to increase fishing opportunities for youth, first-time anglers, and underserved audiences, and to provide additional outreach and education opportunities on the refuge. The need for the proposed action is to meet the Service’s priorities and mandates as outlined by the NWRSAA to “recognize compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general uses of the NWRS” and “ensure that opportunities are provided within the NWRS for compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses” (16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)(4)). Secretarial Order 3356 was signed on September 15, 2017, with the purpose to increase outdoor recreation opportunities for all Americans, including opportunities to hunt and fish. The Wichita Mountains WR completed a Big Game and Waterfowl Hunt Plan in 2019 (USFWS 2019).

Alternatives

Alternative A—Current Management (No-Action Alternative)Under the no-action alternative, current recreational fishing opportunities would remain the same across the refuge. All bodies of water located in the public use area (Figure 1) would continue to be open for fishing. All species available for take are freshwater fish with a wide distribution and are common across their range.

Fishing from the shore is allowed on all waters in the public use area year-round, 24 hours a day, in accordance with State regulations. Boating access for fishing is provided by multiple boat ramps located on the larger lakes on the refuge. Public boat ramps are available on Lake Elmer Thomas, Rush Lake, Jed Johnson Lake, Quanah Parker Lake, and French Lake. Access to bank fishing is available via multiple trails, parking areas, and other amenities. Parking areas are located at or near all lakes in the public use area. Accessible fishing piers are located on Quanah Parker Lake near the Environmental Education Center and at Lake Elmer Thomas. A breakwater for the boat ramp at Lake Elmer Thomas also functions as a fishing pier. A footbridge located between Doris Campground and the Environmental Education Center provides additional access to fishing on Quanah Parker Lake. Sunset Pool can be accessed via an observation platform that allows fishing where vegetation makes bank access difficult. Anglers utilize dams on larger lakes, where allowed, to access deeper waters. Ponds in the public use area are accessed by hiking, either via administrative roads not open to motorized vehicles or by hiking cross-country. Fishing tournaments are allowed on Lake Elmer Thomas with a special use permit. Each tournament is evaluated individually and is permitted only when minimal impacts on refuge resources and existing wildlife-dependent recreation functions can be assured. Fishing tournaments are conducted in cooperation with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) and the Fort Sill U.S. Army base, and are managed in accordance with Service policy and regulations.


Alternative B—Expansion of Recreational Fishing (Proposed Action Alternative)The refuge has prepared a recreational fishing plan, which is presented in this document as the proposed action alternative.

Under the proposed action alternative, recreational fishing opportunities would continue as described for alternative A, with expanded access to waters previously closed to public fishing. The waters open to fishing would be expanded to include the 11-acre Kiowa Lake, located in the special use area. Shoreline fishing in Kiowa Lake would be allowed in conjunction with Service-sponsored aquatic education programs focused on youth and first-time anglers. These education programs help retain, recruit, and reactivate anglers. The number of aquatic education events would be limited to 10 per year, with no more than 300 participants annually. Access to Kiowa Lake would be provided by the refuge using a bus or multipassenger van and occur on existing administrative roads. No new trails or parking areas would be constructed. Bank fishing would be allowed along the shoreline of Kiowa Lake and from the rock-lined dam, upon which little vegetation occurs. Kiowa Lake would receive periodic stocking by refuge staff and ODWC to maintain a quality fishery and would remain closed to general access and recreational fishing outside of Service-sponsored aquatic education events to preserve the quality and biological integrity of the lake and surrounding habitat.

This alternative offers increased opportunities for public fishing and fulfills the Service’s mandate under the NWRSAA. The Service has determined that the recreational fishing plan is compatible with the purposes of Wichita Mountains WR and the mission of the NWRS.

Affected Environment and Environmental ConsequencesThis section is organized by affected resource categories and for each affected resource discusses both (1) the existing environmental and socioeconomic baseline in the action area and (2) the effects and impacts of the proposed action and any alternatives. The effects and impacts of the proposed action considered here are changes to the human environment, whether adverse or beneficial, that are reasonably foreseeable and have a reasonably close causal relationship to the proposed action or alternatives. This EA includes written analysis of the environmental consequences on a resource only when the impacts on that resource could be more than negligible and therefore the resource is considered an “affected resource.” Any resources that will not be more than negligibly impacted by the action have been dismissed from further analysis.

The refuge consists of approximately 92.22 square miles in Comanche County, OK. The refuge lakes are characterized by clear, relatively infertile waters. Lake levels normally remain near full except in midsummer or during periods of extended drought. Shorelines vary from steep and boulder-strewn to gradually sloping with expansive shallow areas.


Under the more shallow conditions, excessive aquatic vegetation, most of which consists of non-native invasive plants, is a perennial problem and can lead to reduced bank fishing opportunities. While the density and distribution of these aquatic species differ in various lakes, the most common invasive species include parrot feather watermilfoil (Myriophyllum aquaticum), Brazilian waterweed (Egeria densa), Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), and curly-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus).

The proposed activity would occur in the special use area. The 34,932-acre special use area covers the Wichita Mountains WR’s northwest half. The special use area was administratively designated on the refuge as an area with restricted public access intended to benefit natural conditions and allow for natural processes. The established area protects the natural features in over half of the Wichita Mountains WR. The refuge reserves this area to facilitate the maintenance of an unencumbered habitat for resident and migrating wildlife; wildlife research; species management, including animal breeding; and species preservation activities, including efforts to protect the black-capped vireo. This area is open only to facilitated hunts and interpretive tours.

The following resources either (1) do not exist within the project area or (2) would be unaffected or only negligibly affected by the proposed action: geology, minerals, water quantity, floodplains, threatened and endangered species, and visual resources. The proposed action would not substantively affect the geologic structure or topography of the action area. The whooping crane (Grus americana), interior least tern (Sternula antillarum), and piping plover (Charadrius melodus) have been documented regionally but have never been documented utilizing refuge resources. The refuge has completed an intra-Service section 7 consultation, concluding with a “no effect” determination, on all three species. Therefore, these resources are not further analyzed in this EA.

Natural ResourcesGame Fish—Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth), Crappie (Black, White), Catfish (Channel)Description of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceThe game fish species largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieui), black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus), white crappie (Pomoxis annularis), and channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) have been documented on the refuge.

Lakes on the refuge were constructed to provide water for wildlife, fire protection, and/or fishing opportunities for the public. Fishing within the public use area is available 24 hours a day on ponds and reservoirs totaling 640 acres. Fishing occurs primarily from the bank or fishing structures, and boats are allowed on some lakes with restrictions. Largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish are the primary game fish caught. Stocking of fish species to enhance fishing opportunities occurs in cooperation with ODWC or Tishomingo National Fish Hatchery.


Stocking is conducted on a limited and sporadic basis as need to supplement natural reproduction. Mercury contamination has been detected in some refuge lakes, and signs are posted warning anglers about mercury levels. Recreational fishing is open in accordance with bag limits and other regulations established by ODWC.

Largemouth bass are among the most sought-after fish in Oklahoma (Miller and Robison 2004) and on the refuge. Largemouth bass are found in all the large public fishing lakes on the refuge. Sampling conducted by refuge staff and ODWC fisheries biologists indicates that stocking rates of largemouth bass in refuge waters are good, with the average catch per unit effort increasing from 114.3 in 2018 to 397.5 in 2020. Average weights of largemouth bass are slightly below the historical average, with the average relative weight (the weight of sampled fish as compared with the average weight for that species) of 90 in 2018, decreasing to 82 in 2020, for fish sampled in refuge lakes (unpublished Service data).

Smallmouth bass have been documented in Lake Elmer Thomas and Jed Johnson Lake (the deepest lakes on the refuge); however, no recent reports of these fish being caught have been documented. Smallmouth bass are sensitive to water temperatures and are most active in water temperatures of 65–70 degrees (Miller and Robison 2004). Outside the winter months, most refuge waters are not likely to produce fishable populations.

Black and white crappies have been documented on the large public fishing lakes on the refuge. Crappies are originally stream fish in Oklahoma but have adapted well to lakes (Miller and Robison 2004). Crappies are the preferred winter fish on the refuge. Crappies are not well suited for small ponds, where they tend to overpopulate (Miller and Robison 2004).

Channel catfish are present in most refuge lakes. Channel catfish reproduction is almost totally lacking on the refuge. Fish shelters were placed in five public-use lakes in the 1960s and 1970s to increase spawning areas for catfish; however, spawning has not noticeably increased in those lakes.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned Actions According to the ODWC’s 2019 Oklahoma Angler Survey, 757,469 fishing licenses were sold in Oklahoma in 2019, accounting for an estimated 20.5 million fishing days (York 2019). With annual fishing visits of fewer than 13,000, the refuge sees a very small portion of the licensed fishing activity in the State.

Fishing pressure is comparatively low relative to other local fisheries. Spring and fall fishing are typically the preferred seasons. Nine public fishing lakes, totaling more than 1,000 acres, are located within approximately 45 minutes of the refuge. Of the game species identified, largemouth bass and crappie are among the most popular species sought after by anglers. Other species (sunfish [Lepomis spp.] and channel catfish) are also sought after by anglers. Both native and non-native aquatic vegetation occurs on fishing lakes and limits bank fishing opportunities on some lakes from late spring and early summer into the fall.


In the future, the refuge plans to evaluate vegetation treatment options to reduce aquatic vegetation and increase bank fishing opportunities. The refuge also plans to determine the feasibility of additional fishing structures to increase fishing accessibility on some lakes.

Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Wichita Mountains WR receives approximately 2 million visitors each year, with approximately 12,123 fishing visits in 2019. The number of fishing visits on the refuge is nominal in comparison with more than 750,000 fishing licenses issued in the State of Oklahoma, according to the 2019 Oklahoma Angler Survey (York 2019). Under the no-action alternative, current management direction would continue to include fishing opportunities as described. No new impacts are anticipated.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)The proposed action would allow Service-sponsored aquatic education fishing events at Kiowa Lake within the Special Use Area. The number of aquatic education events would be limited to 10 per year, with no more than 300 participants annually. Catch-and-release fishing with rod and reel would be allowed during these events, though some take may also be allowed. While catch-and-release fishing would be practiced for the majority of these events, implementation of the proposed action would still result in the direct mortality of some fish. Mortality is likely to occur due to fish swallowing hooks and spending extended periods out of water. Refuge staff would routinely sample and stock Kiowa Lake, in cooperation with ODWC and according to the observed population levels and availability of fish, to ensure the lake remains a viable fishery for aquatic education events.

Nongame Fish—Sunfish SpeciesDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceSunfish species found on the refuge include green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus), orangespotted sunfish (Lepomis humilis), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), longear sunfish (Lepomis megalotis), redear sunfish (Lepomis microlophus), and warmouth (Lepomis gulosus). Sunfishes occur throughout Oklahoma due to widespread hatchery stockings (Miller and Robison 2004). Sunfishes are adaptable species and are found in all types of water statewide (Miller and Robison 2004). Young sunfish are important as forage fish for bass and catfish (Miller and Robison 2004).

On the refuge, fish sampling data in 2011, 2018, and 2020 found a high catch per unit effort, apparent stunted growth, and poor body condition, suggesting an overpopulated fishery (unpublished Service data). Factors contributing to overpopulation include the breeding biology of sunfish, underutilization by anglers, and dense aquatic vegetation along shorelines that reduces bank fishing opportunities in summer.


Description of Environmental Trends and Planned Actions The refuge is located in a rural part of southwestern Oklahoma with increasing influences from the urban areas of North Texas, Oklahoma City, and Lawton, OK. Refuge lakes are managed in cooperation with ODWC. Fishing occurs on public and private lands found adjacent to the refuge, with public fishing opportunities available at Lake Lawtonka, Tom Steed Reservoir, and Lake Ellsworth, as well as smaller urban lakes within the city of Lawton. Multiple fishing opportunities are also available at Fort Sill. ODWC stocks fish in multiple lakes and ponds in the vicinity of the refuge, including Lake Lawtonka, Medicine Creek, Liberty Lake, and Lake Helen.

Sunfishes are widely distributed throughout much of the United States as a common species introduced into lakes and ponds in many States. These species prefer vegetated lakes and ponds with mud, sand, or rocky bottoms. Sunfishes are prolific breeders and can overpopulate quickly (Miller and Robison 2004).

Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Wichita Mountains WR received 12,123 refuge anglers in 2019. Visitors who engage in fishing on the refuge usually focus on largemouth bass, consistent with numbers reported in the 2019 Oklahoma Angler Survey, which indicated that approximately 60 percent of all anglers in Oklahoma target this species (York 2019). Under the no-action alternative, current management direction would continue to include fishing opportunities as described. Current fisheries are self-sustaining in most refuge waters, with minimal stocking by ODWC in Lake Elmer Thomas, which is located on both Wichita Mountains WR and Fort Sill.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)The proposed action alternative would allow up to 10 special Service-sponsored aquatic education fishing events at Kiowa Lake, with up to 300 participants annually. Fishing events would be overseen by refuge staff. Impacts are expected to be negligible due to the limited number of fishing events and participants, and the prolific breeding biology of the fish species present. Catch-and-release fishing with rod and reel would be allowed during these events. While catching and release of fish would be practiced, implementation of the proposed action would still result in the direct mortality of some fish. We do not expect this mortality to be significant, but likely to occur to a small number of fish during each event. Catch-and-release mortality is expected to be less than 10 percent with proper fish-handling techniques (Plumb, Grizzle, and Rogers 2011; Hoxmeier and Wahl 2009).


Nontargeted Wildlife and Aquatic SpeciesDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceThe refuge consists of a diverse ecosystem of cross timber and the largest remaining stretch of native central mixed-grass prairie, which supports a diversity of wildlife species in southwestern Oklahoma. These species, including both game and nongame, are important contributors to the overall biodiversity of the Wichita Mountains WR. Wildlife species that occur on the refuge include 57 mammal species, 292 bird species, 19 amphibian species, 55 reptile species, and 33 fish species. The refuge serves a vital role in the management of the recently delisted black-capped vireo and supports the largest breeding population in Oklahoma. Approximately 62 fish species have the potential to occur within the boundaries of the refuge.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsWarming, whether it results from anthropogenic or natural sources, is expected to affect a variety of natural processes and associated resources. However, the complexity of ecological systems means that there is a tremendous amount of uncertainty about the impact climate change will actually have. In particular, the localized effects of climate change are still a matter of much debate. A study modeling climate change in Oklahoma showed the potential for decreases in precipitation, greater variability in monthly precipitation, and increased frequency of large storms (Zhang et al. 2005). Interior Regions 6, 7, and 8 have been working with the U.S. Geological Survey, the academic community, and other natural resource management agencies and interest groups to translate available and emerging science into concrete actions that reduce the impacts of a changing climate on the diverse ecosystems in Oklahoma.

There is a concern about the bioavailability of lead fishing tackle to the environment, endangered and threatened species, birds (especially raptors), mammals, and humans or other fish and wildlife susceptible to biomagnification. A concern related to fishing is the use of lead sinkers and jigs for fishing. “Sinkers” are weights of various sizes and shapes used to sink a fishing line below the surface of the water; “jigs” are weighted hooks, often brightly painted or otherwise decorated, used as lures in angling. Because sinkers and jigs are generally much larger than shot pellets, a single lead sinker may induce acute lead poisoning. In North America, lead poisoning from sinker ingestion has been documented in common loons; trumpeter, tundra, and mute swans; and sandhill cranes. Many other species of waterbirds have feeding habits similar to those in which sinker ingestion has been documented (e.g., diving ducks, grebes, herons, osprey, bald eagles). These species could also be at risk for lead poisoning from sinker ingestion (Scheuhammer and Norris 1996). Wind farms operate in the vicinity of the refuge. Wind farms have the potential to adversely affect migratory birds because of collisions with spinning blades.


The Service is currently working to install a new water delivery system to provide potable water to visitors, volunteers, and staff of the refuge at the visitor center, Environmental Education Center complex area, Doris Campground, and Holy City. Minor disturbance impacts on prairie dogs and burrowing owls are expected during the construction and installation phase. The water delivery system would be installed along roadways, where disturbance already occurs.

Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Under this alternative, fishing would continue to result in minor disturbance to other wildlife and aquatic species. While there is typically an impact on most wildlife species whenever human presence occurs, many animals on the refuge have developed tolerance when visitors and vehicles are present. The refuge received 12,123 angling visitors last year. This resulted in some temporary disturbance to wildlife, especially around lakes, ponds, and creeks. Songbirds and raptors use the refuge year-round, whereas shorebirds and waterfowl primarily use the refuge in the fall and winter. Concentrations of waterfowl on the refuge are generally fewer than 4,000 individuals.

Currently the State of Oklahoma allows the use of lead fishing tackle throughout the State. Wichita Mountains WR is encouraging, not mandating, anglers to switch to nontoxic fishing tackle. Anglers may choose to use non-lead alternatives such as tin, steel, or ceramic sinkers. This can reduce the impacts of lead on wildlife and the environment.The special use area of the refuge is generally closed to public entry and serves as a sanctuary for waterfowl and other wildlife species to offset potential disturbance effects. The active breeding season for the recently delisted black-capped vireo is April–July. The potential exists that short-term disturbance would occur while visitors engage in fishing activities.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)Under this alternative, there would be a minimal increase in overall temporary disturbance to wildlife with the addition of targeted educational fishing events. This activity would occur in the special use area of the refuge, which is closed to the general public. Some resident mammals and birds would be displaced from in and around Kiowa Lake, but those animals could find refuge in adjacent areas closed to fishing. Impacts include temporary displacement of deer, elk, turkeys, waterfowl, and other resident wildlife from foot traffic moving through the area. These impacts are expected to be minimal given the limited number of educational fishing events, with no more than 10 events and 300 total participants annually.

Habitat and VegetationDescription of Affected ResourceThe refuge contains over 800 documented plant species, in a variety of plant communities. The refuge owes its character to the range of mountains from whence it gets its name. These topographic features and the climate of the region have created habitats of mixed-grass prairies, cross timber, and rocklands.


The habitats of the Wichita Mountains are so unusual and distinct that it was once designated as its own biotic district (Blair and Hubbell 1938). The refuge lies at a vegetational crossroads, or transition, along the eastern edge of the southern Great Plains region.

The refuge is divided into three distinct terrestrial habitats: rocklands (2,474 acres), central mixed-grass prairie (30,941 acres), and cross timber oak forest and woodland (24,702 acres). The central mixed-grass prairie contains elements from both shortgrass and tallgrass prairies, with species densities and distributions controlled primarily by soil moisture and topography. The cross timber habitat is characterized by a mosaic of forest, woodland, and savanna. The rockland habitats occur primarily on open and exposed mountaintops, southern slopes, and boulder slides, and are characterized by shallow soils, sparse vegetation, and gabbro and granite rock formations. The refuge is at a higher elevation than the surrounding areas and is thereby situated at the top of the watershed. Natural aquatic classes on the refuge, such as creeks and streams, are intermittent and seasonal. Artificial reservoirs and ponds account for the largest water bodies on the refuge, providing 642 acres of fishable ponds and reservoirs. Fishing is permitted in lakes, ponds, and streams throughout the public use area, and access to these water bodies occurs across all vegetation types within the refuge.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsHistorically, southwestern Oklahoma, including Fort Sill, was a grassland prairie traversed by wooded streams. The native prairie was subsequently overgrazed as settlement increased, somewhat changing the climax grassland communities. Overgrazing has changed plant communities in the county, resulting in reduced populations of certain species and an increase in abundance of other species.

Impacts from climate change, as described above for nontargeted wildlife and aquatic species, may also affect wildlife habitat and vegetation.

Fort Sill is actively collaborating with Land Legacy of Tulsa, OK, to proactively manage land development around Fort Sill. The program is designed to protect the installation from urban sprawl encroachment by establishing a buffer around critical ranges and training lands. The purpose of the Army Compatible Use Buffer program is not to purchase land but to acquire the development rights (conservation easements) on land surrounding Fort Sill to prevent encroachment. The program is seeking to protect 14,080 acres (USACE 2019).The refuge will receive 2021 deferred maintenance funding through the Great American Outdoors Act and funding under Land and Water Conservation Fund projects to consolidate administrative facilities and provide necessary upgrades to the visitor center. The refuge will have improved capabilities with new facilities and consolidated infrastructure, reducing the overall building footprint on the refuge. This will improve the Service’s ability to manage habitat and restore previously disturbed areas.


Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Under this alternative, the existing vegetation and habitat conditions would likely remain the same. Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails; however, foot traffic to sought-after fishing spots does result in trampling of vegetation along the water’s edge in places. Trampling of vegetation due to fishing activities is considered negligible when compared with other public-use activities on the refuge.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)Impacts would be similar to those described for alternative A. The number of aquatic education events would be limited to 10 per year, with no more than 300 participants annually. Access to Kiowa Lake would be provided by the refuge using a bus or multipassenger van and occur on existing administrative roads. No new trails or parking areas would be constructed. Bank fishing would be allowed along the shoreline of Kiowa Lake and from the rock-lined dam, upon which little vegetation occurs. Due to the limited frequency of events and limited number of participants, negligible effects are expected on Kiowa Lake–area vegetation from trampling as a result of aquatic education fishing activities.

SoilsDescription of Affected ResourceThe geology of this region represents some of the oldest geologic strata outcroppings in Oklahoma, primarily of igneous rocks such as granite and rhyolite. The maximum elevation is approximately 2,479 feet at the summit of Mount Pinchot, and the minimum elevation is approximately 1,280 feet at the base of Lake Elmer Thomas Dam. Rocky outcroppings are common. Soils in the area of potential effect are largely in the Foard, Tillman, Vernon, and Hollister soil series—each with extensive distribution in the region. The Foard series are very deep and well-drained soils occurring on nearly level to gently sloping, broad summits and shoulder slopes of terrace pediments. The Tillman series are very deep and well-drained soils found on alluvial plains and alluvial plain remnants. Vernon soils are well-drained, moderately deep soils over claystone bedrock on broad, gently sloping to steep plains and escarpments. Hollister soils are very deep and well-drained, occurring on broad, flat plain terraces.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsThe refuge is in the process of installing a new water line to provide potable water to refuge facilities and the public. There would minimal disturbance to soils from trenching, boring, and compaction by construction equipment on up to 23 acres. Soils moved during installation would be quickly backfilled and secured as each section of pipe is set in place. Soils along the proposed pipeline routes are disturbed due to prior roadway construction and other work over the years.


The refuge will receive 2021 deferred maintenance funding through the Great American Outdoors Act and funding under Land and Water Conservation Fund projects to consolidate administrative facilities and provide necessary upgrades to the visitor center.

Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)A majority of fishing activities on the refuge involve bank fishing. As a result of foot traffic around lakes, ponds, and creeks, creation of trails in some locations is often evident. These trails lead to slight soil compaction, areas of increased runoff, and erosion. Angling visits are relatively few, so overall impacts on soils are negligible compared with other public-use activities. The refuge is in the process of placing additional counters in various areas (hiking trails and fishing locations) to determine actual use at these locations. The majority of fishing visits involve anglers driving to designated parking areas and fishing near those areas. Vehicles are confined to public-access paved roads and designated parking areas.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)Under the proposed action alternative, impacts on soils are expected to be negligible because of the limited number of additional fishing visits. The number of aquatic education events would be limited to 10 per year, with no more than 300 participants annually. Access to Kiowa Lake would be provided by the refuge using a bus or multipassenger van and occur on existing administrative roads. Bank fishing would be allowed along the shoreline of Kiowa Lake and from the rock-lined dam, upon which little vegetation occurs. The proposed action would result in a slight increase in disturbance to soils from foot traffic, compared with alternative A.

Air QualityDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceThe two units of the Wichita Mountains Wilderness Area (Charon’s Garden and North Mountain) are designated by the Clean Air Act as a Class I Clean Air Area. The refuge coordinates with the Service’s Air Quality Branch to ensure appropriate and consistent air quality monitoring at, but not limited to, the Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments (IMPROVE) station to ensure protection of the refuge’s Class I status. Air quality on the refuge is primarily influenced by off-site sources, carried by prevailing southeast transport winds. All paved roads are heavily used by the public throughout the year.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsIn Comanche County, the majority of emissions occur from four sources (USACE 2019):

1. On-road and nonroad mobile sources, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide equivalents

2. prescribed fires (releasing CO and sulfur oxides) 3. solvent and surface coating usage (releasing VOCs) 4. fugitive dust from unpaved roads and agricultural activities


Air pollution from nearby off-refuge sources, including industry, power plants, and automobiles, exists in the county. Fires from explosives and other military activities at the adjacent Fort Sill generate smoke that can temporarily affect the air quality of the refuge. The smoke from military activities could add to smoke from prescribed fires occurring on the refuge, further adversely affecting the refuge’s air quality. Reduced air quality may negatively affect the health of wildlife or their food sources.

Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Under this alternative, there would be no change in impacts on air quality. Most dirt roads are used by refuge staff for administrative and management activities, resulting in negligible amounts of dust and vehicle emissions.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)Under this alternative, impacts on air quality would be consistent with those described for alternative A. The nominal increase in fishing visits (with a maximum of 10 events a year) and associated vehicle traffic on the administrative roadways, compared with overall public use on the refuge, is considered insignificant.

Water QualityDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceThe Wichita Mountains WR is at a higher elevation than the surrounding areas and is thereby situated at the top of the watershed. Natural aquatic classes on the refuge, such as creeks and streams, are intermittent and seasonal. Artificial reservoirs, ponds, and associated wetlands account for the largest water bodies on the refuge and are the only significant year-round water sources. Since the refuge is under a fenced system, the large herbivores present would not have access to water during dry seasons or drought without these reservoirs.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsThe Oklahoma Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (OPDES) stormwater program, authorized by the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System stormwater permitting program, requires construction site owners and operators to obtain coverage under the OPDES Construction General Permit to discharge stormwater runoff from a construction site and to implement appropriate pollution prevention controls and techniques to minimize pollutants and reduce stormwater runoff.


Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Existing fishing opportunities and associated foot traffic around lakes, ponds, and creeks could lead to increased erosion, which contributes to sedimentation and other changes to lake, pond, and creek morphology. While this is a potential effect, the existing fishing program should result in negligible erosion effects due to the low number of angler visits (approximately 12,000 anglers a year) compared with other public use activities.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)Under the proposed action alternative, the Service-sponsored aquatic education fishing events may result in the creation of trails around Kiowa Lake, which could contribute sedimentation to the lake. While this is a potential effect, the refuge would be monitoring the sponsored events, with limited numbers of individuals (no more than 300 annually). The disturbance resulting in sedimentation over 10 events a year would be negligible.

Wilderness and Special Use AreaDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceOn October 23, 1970, the Wichita Mountains Wilderness Area was established by Public Law 91-504. It consists of two units totaling 8,570 acres. The popular Charon’s Garden unit (5,723 acres) is located in the southwestern portion of the refuge, within the public use area; the North Mountain unit (2,847 acres) is located in the north-central part of the refuge within the special use area. “Special use area” is an administrative designation for an area with restricted public access intended to benefit natural conditions and allow for natural processes. The special use area covers 34,932 acres of the northwestern part of the refuge. “Public use area” is an administrative designation of an area for public access, intended to benefit public use opportunities, including hunting and fishing, and promote awareness of the refuge’s wildlife and habitats. The public use area covers 24,088 acres of the southern and southeastern portions of the refuge.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsThe Charon’s Garden Wilderness is open to many public uses, including hiking-based opportunities for wildlife observation and photography, camping (with a permit), and rock sports. The refuge also has a small number of guided interpretive hikes and organized environmental education events with a “leave no trace” message or theme. Two designated trails, totaling about 3.5 miles, are maintained by hand.

Temporary access restrictions are occasionally used to protect sensitive sites from harassment in the Charon’s Garden Wilderness Area. Nevertheless, as a result of increasing visitation pressures on the Charon’s Garden Wilderness, the sense of solitude that is supposed to prevail there according to the intent of the Wilderness Act may continue to erode.

The North Mountain Wilderness Area has very limited public access for hunting, which is controlled by the refuge due to its location inside the special use area.


Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Limited fishing occurs on three small ponds in the Charon’s Garden Wilderness Area. Each pond is approximately half an acre and requires off-trail hiking for access. Fishing within the Wichita Mountains Wilderness Area is in accordance with the provisions, requirements, and spirit of the Wilderness Act. Impacts on wilderness characteristics, if any, are considered negligible.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)If implemented, the proposed action alternative would have no impact on wilderness areas within the refuge. Kiowa Lake, where Service-sponsored aquatic education fishing activities would occur, is not within a wilderness area. As such, no impacts on wilderness are expected. This activity will take place in the special use area. As with other controlled activities (hunting and interpretive tours), the refuge will closely monitor and limit the activities conducted to ensure there are no long-term adverse impacts on the special use area.

Visitor Use and ExperienceDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceWichita Mountains WR attracts approximately 2.15 million visitors annually, who engage in a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, hunting, rock climbing, fishing, wildlife observation, and wildlife photography, in the public use area. Controlled deer and elk hunts and limited public bus tours are conducted in the special use area. With an abundance of aquatic resources, the refuge provides ample and varied opportunities for recreational fishing, with an estimated 12,000 fishing visits per year. The creeks, lakes, and ponds that support angling activities across the refuge rarely overlap with other recreational uses, posing no conflict with fishing. Further, the anticipated increase in angler visits, compared with other recreational uses, is nominal.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsLocal opportunities for recreation include a historic district, concerts, car shows, casinos, event centers, and private and public hunting lands. Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area, Lake Lawtonka, Medicine Park Aquarium and Natural Sciences Center, and other parks in the community provide opportunities for water sports, camping, and other nature-based and outdoor recreation.

Roughly 2 percent of the 2 million annual visitors to the refuge stay in Doris Campground, while another 8 percent stop at the visitor center.

The refuge will receive 2021 deferred maintenance funding through the Great American Outdoors Act and funding under Land and Water Conservation Fund projects to consolidate administrative facilities and provide necessary upgrades to the visitor center.


Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Existing fishing opportunities will likely have little to no effect on other recreational uses. Limited visitor parking, especially during high-use seasons, may pose some challenges and create opportunities for conflict among different varying recreational uses. Due to the large amount of visitation, this effect would exist with or without the fishing opportunities.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)Under the proposed action alternative, Service-sponsored aquatic education fishing events will have no negative effects on other recreational visitor uses. The restricted access to Kiowa Lake and the necessary involvement and oversight of refuge staff will improve the visitor use experience for those participating in fishing activities and have no impact on other refuge users. Controlled hunts and public bus tours do not occur in the immediate vicinity of Kiowa Lake and will result in no impact on other refuge user groups.

Cultural ResourcesDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourcePeriods of human occupation throughout Oklahoma have been heavily documented and extend from the widely accepted Clovis complex (possibly even pre-Clovis) forward. Consistent with much of the surroundings, assessments of the cultural resources at Wichita Mountains reveals a rich collection of archaeological and historical sites. While the refuge has never been fully surveyed, there have been a number of studies that have identified potential sites and documented existing sites spanning from prehistory through Western contact and expansion, and into the modern day. The largest of these surveys did not evaluate many of these sites for inclusion into the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). In the 60 years since that time, few sites have been professionally revisited, meaning that their eligibility for addition to the NRHP is undetermined or unknown. Prehistoric archaeological sites across the refuge have received minimal monitoring and management. Beyond their initial survey, the majority of documented locations have not been revisited. Site conditions are largely unknown; thus, adverse impacts are unknown. Based upon available information, however, the majority of the approximately 45 sites are believed to be late Archaic (c. 5000 B.C. to 1000 B.C.) and/or Plains Woodland (c. 1000 B.C. to A.D. 1400) in nature. These locations were documented in varying conditions from “excellent, subsurface deposits demonstrated” to “disturbed” as a result of erosion. Several sites offered up small collections of materials that can be found at the Sam Noble Museum in Norman, OK.

Numerous State and federally recognized culturally affiliated Tribal groups exist within the local area. While Wichita Mountains WR retains good working relationships with these groups, little attention has been given to ethnographic resources associated with the Wichita Mountains.


Indigenous groups traditionally associated with the Wichita Mountains include the Apache Tribe of Oklahoma, Caddo Nation of Oklahoma, Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, Comanche Nation, Delaware Nation, Fort Sill Apache Tribe of Oklahoma, Kiowa Tribe, and Wichita and Affiliated Tribes. This list is not exhaustive, and other groups with ethnographic interests may be present as well.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsThe refuge will receive 2021 deferred maintenance funding through the Great American Outdoors Act and funding under Land and Water Conservation Fund projects to consolidate administrative facilities and demolish facilities that are out of date. The refuge will be working with the Oklahoma State Historic Preservation Office to identify and minimize any impacts associated with construction and demolition.

Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Under alternative A, no adverse impacts have been reported in the past and no significant change is expected. The current fishing program produces little ground disturbance.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)Under the proposed action alternative, impacts are expected to be similar to those described for alternative A. There are no known or documented cultural sites around Kiowa Lake, which is artificial and has had previous ground disturbance. Any impacts are expected to be negligible as fishing activities produce little ground disturbance and Service-sponsored aquatic education fishing activities would occur on a limited number of days, with staff or volunteer supervision.

Refuge Management and OperationsLand Use on the RefugeDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceInfrastructure for access to fishing areas associated with refuge management includes roads, parking areas, and trails. Visitors participating in fishing may use the headquarters or visitor center to gather information or use the restrooms.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsPotential for conflict with refuge management and operational activities occurs in areas where habitat management treatments are conducted (prescribed fire, invasive plant management). Occasionally, an area open to fishing is proposed for a management activity that must have specific timing and weather conditions, and cannot be rescheduled, such as prescribed fire. Typically, a notice of this activity is posted on the refuge website and in the visitor center. Signs about the closure of a unit are posted around the area to ensure visitors do not enter the unit. The unit is also scouted by refuge staff to ensure it is “clear” prior to implementing the treatment.


The refuge will receive 2021 deferred maintenance funding through the Great American Outdoors Act and funding under Land and Water Conservation Fund projects to consolidate administrative facilities and provide necessary upgrades to the visitor center. The refuge will have improved capabilities, with new facilities and consolidating infrastructure reducing the overall footprint on the refuge.

Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Existing infrastructure maintained by the refuge will continue to provide access for anglers. Current levels of fishing-related use of refuge infrastructure are low relative to other uses and have a negligible impact on refuge management and operations.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)Providing access to Kiowa Lake via administrative road through the special use area will likely increase maintenance needs on that road. However, any maintenance needs will likely be negligible due to the limited number of participants and number of days that access will occur.

AdministrationDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceThe refuge receives funding and staffing for operations, infrastructure, and maintenance. Annual fishing administration costs for Wichita Mountains WR, including salary, equipment, law enforcement, brochures, collection of fishing data, and analysis of biological information, come directly from refuge funds. Funding specifically for fishing has not been allocated.

The enforcement of refuge and State fishing regulations as well as trespassing and other public use violations normally associated with management of a national wildlife refuge is the responsibility of commissioned Federal wildlife officers. Federal wildlife officers cooperate with and are assisted by local, county, State, and Federal law enforcement agencies, including State game wardens. Wichita Mountains WR has proprietary jurisdiction; State and county law enforcement agencies have jurisdiction on refuge lands. Medicine Park and Cache are neighboring cities that have authority and jurisdiction to enforce refuge regulations through a memorandum of understanding. The refuge staff regularly meets with various Federal, State, county, and local law enforcement agencies to share information, assist with investigating unlawful activities, and coordinate patrols.

Refuge visitor services staff members manage the refuge’s outreach program and routinely interact with and assist refuge users seeking fishing opportunities.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsPotential for conflict with refuge management and operations activities occurs in areas where habitat management treatments are conducted (prescribed fire, invasive plant management).


Occasionally, an area open to fishing is proposed for a management activity that must have specific timing and weather conditions, and cannot be rescheduled, such as prescribed fire. Typically, a notice of this activity is posted on the refuge website and in the visitor center. Signs about the closure of a unit are posted around the area to ensure visitors do not enter the unit. The unit is also scouted by refuge staff to ensure it is “clear” prior to implementing the treatment.

The refuge will receive 2021 deferred maintenance funding through the Great American Outdoors Act and funding under Land and Water Conservation Fund projects to consolidate administrative facilities and provide necessary upgrades to the visitor center. The refuge will have improved capabilities, with new facilities and consolidating infrastructure reducing the overall footprint on the refuge.

Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Under alternative A, annual operations to manage fishing activities would cost the refuge approximately $55,000 for law enforcement operation, refuge management and administration, biological monitoring and data collection, and annual maintenance. It is anticipated that funding would be sufficient to continue the existing fishing program at the refuge. Fishing activities would not significantly impact refuge management and operations, as a relatively low number of people access the refuge for fishing, and activities are restricted to fishable water bodies. Prescribed fires and other priority management actions would continue to be implemented during optimal conditions regardless of impacts on the fishing program.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)Impacts under alternative B would be similar to those described for alternative A. Expected additional funding needs to operate targeted educational fishing programs will be nominal. The additional fishing opportunities are not expected to exceed current staffing capacity. Refuge staff would work with partners to manage the new fishing programs cooperatively with volunteers to the extent possible.

SocioeconomicsLocal and Regional EconomiesDescription of Affected Environment for Affected ResourceWichita Mountains WR sits just outside Lawton, OK, which has a population of approximately 92,000. The Lawton/Fort Sill area has 124,000 people. The Lawton/Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce prominently lists the refuge as a major local attraction. According to the Service’s 2017 Banking on Nature report, recreational visitation to Wichita Mountains WR produced roughly $98 million in economic effects while supporting some 923 jobs (Caudill and Carver 2017).


The 2019 National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Survey estimated that most visitors coming from outside the local area do so specifically to experience some aspect of the refuge and its resources. Visitors who live within the local 50-mile radius of a refuge typically have different spending patterns than those who travel from longer distances. A 2010 study showed that 34 percent of surveyed visitors to Wichita Mountains WR indicated that they live within the local area (Sexton et al. 2011). Nonlocal visitors (66 percent) stayed in the local area, on average, for 2 days. Expenditures by these travelers support locally owned businesses including hotels, coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, bait shops, and art galleries. Furthermore, the refuge operates 61 commercial permits, which allow photographers, videographers, and climbing guides to conduct commercial operations within the refuge.

Description of Environmental Trends and Planned ActionsThe population of Comanche County increased by 5 percent between the 2010 and 2019 population estimates (Headwaters Economics 2021). Population trends in the local communities surrounding the refuge are strongly tied to staffing levels at the adjacent Fort Sill.Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)Anglers make up a very small percentage of recreational visitors to the refuge. Under alternative A, recreational fishing creates no negative socioeconomic impacts as it does not interfere with or impede other recreational uses. Further, it may have only a minor positive impact due to the limited number of recreational fishing visits.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)While not predicted to be immediate in nature, the proposed expansion of fishing programs may have some positive long-term socioeconomic impacts. Participation in outdoor recreation largely begins with “gateway” activities like freshwater fishing. The Service-sponsored aquatic education fishing events may lead to new angler recruitment and an increase in future angling or other visits, potentially leading to future positive economic contributions.

Environmental JusticeDescription of Affected ResourceExecutive Order 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations, requires all Federal agencies to incorporate environmental justice into their missions by identifying and addressing disproportionately high or adverse human health or environmental effects of their programs and policies on minorities and low-income populations and communities.


Impacts on Affected ResourceAlternative A (No-Action Alternative)The Service has not identified any potential high and adverse environmental or human health impacts from the no-action alternative. The Service has identified no minority or low-income communities within the impact area. Minority or low-income communities would not be disproportionately affected by any impacts from this proposed action or any of the alternatives.

Alternative B (Proposed Action Alternative)The Service has not identified any potential high and adverse environmental or human health impacts from this proposed action. The Service has identified no minority or low-income communities within the impact area. Minority or low-income communities would not be disproportionately affected by any impacts from this proposed action or any of the alternatives.

MonitoringThe refuge, in cooperation with ODWC, samples reservoirs every 2 years to determine species abundance, fish condition, and age, and this activity provides the refuge with fisheries management and stocking recommendations. The refuge will use an adaptive management approach to adjust fishing activities to ensure no adverse impacts on populations.

Summary of AnalysisThe purpose of this EA is to briefly provide sufficient evidence and analysis for determining whether to prepare an environmental impact statement or a Finding of No Significant Impact. The term “significantly” as used in NEPA requires consideration of both the context of the action and the intensity of the effects.

Alternative A—Current Management (No-Action Alternative)There would be no additional costs to the refuge under this alternative. There would be no change to current public use and wildlife management programs on the refuge under this alternative. The refuge would not increase its impact on the economy and would not provide new fishing opportunities. This alternative has the least direct impact on physical and biological resources; however, not enhancing fishing opportunities would minimize our mandates under the NWRSAA and Secretarial Order 3356.

Alternative B—Expansion of Recreational Fishing (Proposed Action Alternative)As in alternative A, fishing on the refuge in accordance with ODWC regulations would have negligible to minor impacts on habitat, wildlife, or the human environment. The expansion of recreational fishing through educational fishing events for youth and first-time anglers would engage more people in outdoor recreation and foster natural resource stewardship. The refuge would evaluate the fishing program on a regular basis and modify it, as needed, to protect fish, wildlife, and their habitats.


This alternative is the Service’s proposed action because it offers the best opportunity for public fishing that would result in a minimal impact on physical and biological resources while meeting the Service’s mandates under the NWRSAA and Secretarial Order 3356.

List of Sources, Agencies, and Persons ConsultedOklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

List of PreparersLynn Cartmell, Visitor Services Manager David Farmer, Refuge Manager Dan McDonald, Wildlife Biologist Amber Zimmerman, Deputy Refuge Manager

State CoordinationRefuge staff met with ODWC representatives on March 11–12, 2020, to discuss the current fishing program and recommendations for future modifications. Refuge staff subsequently utilized the comments and suggestions from this meeting in the development of the 2020 Recreational Fishing Plan and this EA.

Tribal ConsultationThe refuge sent Tribal consultation letters to the area Tribes, including the Apache Tribe of Oklahoma, Caddo Nation of Oklahoma, Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, Comanche Nation, Delaware Nation, Fort Sill Apache Tribe of Oklahoma, Kiowa Tribe, and Wichita and Affiliated Tribes.

Public OutreachThis EA will be available for public review via public notice on the refuge’s webpage, in the visitor center, at the local post office, and at the sign-in station of Muleshoe NWR. Public notices will be posted on the refuge website, in the visitor center, at the local post office, and at the informational kiosk. The documents are available beginning Thursday, April 15, 2021, until the close of the Federal Register public comment period, at least 60 days. Draft documents are available on the refuge website, or you can contact the refuge at 580-429-3222 or at [email protected] to request either printed or electronic copies. Please let us know if you need the documents in an alternative format. The public comment period is an opportunity to provide your comments on the draft documents. You can submit comments via email to [email protected] or mail in comments to Attention: Refuge Manager, Wichita Mountains WR, 32 Refuge Headquarters, Indiahoma, OK 73552.

https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Wichita_Mountains/

mailto:[email protected]


DeterminationThis section will be filled out upon completion of the public comment period and at the time of finalization of the Environmental Assessment.

☐ The Service’s action will not result in a significant impact on the quality of the human environment. See the attached “Finding of No Significant Impact.”

☐ The Service’s action may significantly affect the quality of the human environment and the Service will prepare an Environmental Impact Statement.

SignaturesSubmitted By:

Project Leader Signature:

Date:

Concurrence:

Refuge Supervisor Signature:

Date:

Approved:

Regional Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System, Signature:

Date:


ReferencesBlair, W. F., and T. H. Hubbell. 1938. The biotic districts of Oklahoma. American Midland

Naturalist 20(2):pp. 425-454.

Caudill, J., and E. Carver. 2019. Banking on Nature 2017: The Economic Contributions of National Wildlife Refuge Recreational Visitation to Local Communities. Falls Church, VA: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Headwaters Economics. 2021. “Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.” U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Socioeconomic Profiles database. Accessed February 2021. https://headwaterseconomics.org/tools/usfws-indicators/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery.

Hoxmeier, R.J.H., and D.H. Wahl. 2009. “Factors influencing short-term hooking mortality of bluegills and the implications for restrictive harvest regulations.” North American Journal of Fisheries Management 29(5):1372–1378.

Miller, R.J., and H.W. Robison. 2004. Fishes of Oklahoma. Norman: University of Oklahoma Press.

Plumb, J.A., J.M. Grizzle, and W.A. Rogers. 2011. “Survival of caught and released largemouth bass after containment in live wells.” North American Journal of Fisheries Management 8(3):325–328.

Scheuhammer, A.M., and S.L. Norris. 1996. “The ecotoxicology of lead shot and lead fishing weights.” Ecotoxicology 5(5):279–295. http://doi.org/10.1007/BF00119051.

Sexton N.R., A.M. Dietsch, A.W. Don Carlos, L. Koontz, A.N. Solomon, and H.M. Miller. 2011. National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Survey 2010/2011: Individual Refuge Results for Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

USACE (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers). 2019. Final Environmental Assessment for Renewable Energy and Energy Resiliency at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

USFWS (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). 2019. “Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge Big Game (Elk, Deer, Turkey) and Waterfowl Hunt Plan.” USFWS, Indiahoma, Oklahoma.

USFWS (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). 2012. “Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge comprehensive conservation plan.” USFWS, Washington, DC.

York, B. 2019. “Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation 2019 Oklahoma angler survey.” ODWC, Oklahoma City.

Zhang X.C., Nearing, M.A. 2005. Impact of climate change on soil erosion, runoff, and wheat productivity in central Oklahoma. CATENA 61(2–3): 185-195

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/03418162/61/2


Appendix A. Other Applicable Statues, Executive Orders, and RegulationsCultural ResourcesAmerican Indian Religious Freedom Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 1996–1996a; 43 CFR Part 7

Antiquities Act of 1906, 16 U.S.C. 431–433; 43 CFR Part 3

Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979, 16 U.S.C. 470aa–470mm; 18 CFR Part 1312; 32 CFR Part 229; 36 CFR Part 296; 43 CFR Part 7

National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 470–470x–6; 36 CFR Parts 60, 63, 78, 79, 800, 801, and 810

Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, 25 U.S.C. 3001–3013; 43 CFR Part 10

Paleontological Resources Protection Act, 16 U.S.C. 470aaa–470aaa–11

Executive Order 11593—Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment, 36 Fed. Reg. 8921 (1971)

Executive Order 13007—Indian Sacred Sites, 61 Fed. Reg. 26771 (1996)

The proposed action includes no ground-disturbing activities, or other activities that might disturb undocumented paleontological, archaeological, or historic sites. During pre-hunt meeting, law enforcement will discuss that surface finds, for example arrowheads, are not to be disturbed or removed.

Fish and WildlifeBald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 668–668c, 50 CFR Part 22

Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 1531–1544; 36 CFR Part 13; 50 CFR Parts 10, 17, 23, 81, 217, 222, 225, 402, and 450

Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956, 16 U.S.C. 742a–m

Lacey Act, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 3371 et seq.; 15 CFR Parts 10, 11, 12, 14, 300, and 904

Migratory Bird Treaty Act, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 703–712; 50 CFR Parts 10, 12, 20, and 21

Executive Order 13186—Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds, 66 Fed. Reg. 3853 (2001)

The proposed action would have negligible impacts on fish and wildlife.

Natural ResourcesClean Air Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 7401–7671q; 40 CFR Parts 23, 50, 51, 52, 58, 60, 61, 82, and 93; 48 CFR Part 23


Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq.

Wilderness Act, 16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.

Executive Order 13112—Invasive Species, 64 Fed. Reg. 6183 (1999)

The proposed action would have negligible impacts on air quality. The proposed action would have negligible effects on introduction of invasive species because it represents an overall minor percentage of refuge visitation (less than 1 percent of refuge visits annually).

Water ResourcesCoastal Zone Management Act of 1972, 16 U.S.C. 1451 et seq.; 15 CFR Parts 923, 930, and 933

Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972 (commonly referred to as Clean Water Act), 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.; 33 CFR Parts 320–330; 40 CFR Parts 110, 112, 116, 117, 230–232, 323, and 328

Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, as amended, 33 U.S.C. 401 et seq.; 33 CFR Parts 114, 115, 116, 321, 322, and 333

Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974, 42 U.S.C. 300f et seq.; 40 CFR Parts 141–148

Executive Order 11988—Floodplain Management, 42 Fed. Reg. 26951 (1977)

Executive Order 11990—Protection of Wetlands, 42 Fed. Reg. 26961 (1977)

The proposed action would have negligible impacts on water resources and pollution.

Draft Environmental Assessment · 2021. 4. 19. · Elmer Thomas 334.83 5.30 1939 Quanah Parker...

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