Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA) 04/01/2024 to 06/30/2024 Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest
This report contains the best available information at the time of publication. Questions may be directed to the Project Contact.
Report Contents (click to jump to a section) : - Projects Occurring Nationwide - Projects Occurring in more than one Region (excluding Nationwide) - R2 - Rocky Mountain Region, Occurring in more than one Forest (excluding Regionwide) - R2 - Rocky Mountain Region, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Occurring in more than one District (excluding Forestwide) - R2 - Rocky Mountain Region, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District) - R2 - Rocky Mountain Region, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District) - R2 - Rocky Mountain Region, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District) - R2 - Rocky Mountain Region, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Laramie Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District) - R2 - Rocky Mountain Region, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Yampa Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)
Projects Occurring Nationwide
Project Name	Project Purpose	Planning Status	Decision	Expected Implementation	Project Contact
Land Management Plan Direction for Old-Growth Forest Conditions Across the National Forest System EIS *UPDATED*	- Land management planning	In Progress: NOI in Federal Register 12/20/2023 Est. DEIS NOA in Federal Register 06/2024	Expected:01/2025	01/2025	Jennifer McRae 505-377-3145 Jennifer.McRae@usda.gov
Description: Amend all land management plans for units of the National Forest System to include consistent direction to conserve and steward existing and recruit future old-growth forest conditions and to monitor their condition across planning areas of NFS. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65356
Location: UNIT - All Districts-level Units. STATE - All States. COUNTY - All Counties. LEGAL - Not Applicable. National Forests and Grasslands (128 units).
Locatable Mining Rule - 36 CFR 228, subpart A. EIS	- Regulations, Directives, Orders	On Hold	N/A	N/A	Sarah Shoemaker 907-586-7886 sarahshoemaker@fs.fed.us
Description: The U.S. Department of Agriculture proposes revisions to its regulations at 36 CFR 228, Subpart A governing locatable minerals operations on National Forest System lands.A draft EIS & proposed rule should be available for review/comment in late 2020 Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=57214
Location: UNIT - All Districts-level Units. STATE - All States. COUNTY - All Counties. LEGAL - Not Applicable. These regulations apply to all NFS lands open to mineral entry under the US mining laws. More Information is available at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/science-technology/geology/minerals/locatable-minerals/current-revisions.
Nationwide Aerial Application of Fire Retardant on National Forest System Land. EIS *UPDATED*	- Regulations, Directives, Orders	Completed	Actual: 02/06/2024	02/2024	Laura Conway 406-802-4317 laura.conway@usda.gov
Description: Programmatic Supplemental EIS for the Nationwide Aerial Application of Fire Retardant on National Forest System Land. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=60450
Location: UNIT - All Districts-level Units. STATE - All States. COUNTY - All Counties. LEGAL - Not Applicable. The direction in the SEIS will apply to use of aerially delivered fire retardant on all National Forest System land. .
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Projects Occurring in more than one Region (excluding Nationwide)
Project Name	Project Purpose	Planning Status	Decision	Expected Implementation	Project Contact
Amendments to Land Management Plans Regarding Sage-grouse Conservation EIS	- Land management planning - Wildlife, Fish, Rare plants	In Progress: Objection Period Legal Notice 08/02/2019	Expected:12/2020	01/2021	John Shivik 801-625-5667 john.shivik@usda.gov
Description: The Forest Service is considering amending its land management plans to address new and evolving issues arising since implementing sage-grouse plans in 2015. This project is in cooperation with the USDI Bureau of Land Management. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=52904
Location: UNIT - Ashley National Forest All Units, Boise National Forest All Units, Bridger-Teton National Forest All Units, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest All Units, Dixie National Forest All Units, Fishlake National Forest All Units, Salmon-Challis National Forest All Units, Sawtooth National Forest All Units, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest All Units, Manti-La Sal National Forest All Units, Caribou-Targhee National Forest All Units, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache All Units. STATE - Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming. COUNTY - Jackson, Moffat, Routt, Adams, Blaine, Bonneville, Camas, Caribou, Cassia, Elmore, Fremont, Madison, Churchill, Clark, Elko, Eureka, Humboldt, Lincoln, Nye, Pershing, Washoe, White Pine, Beaver, Box Elder, Cache, Carbon, Daggett, Davis, Duchesne, Emery, Garfield, Grand, Iron, Juab, Kane, Millard, Morgan, Piute, Rich, Salt Lake, San Juan, Sanpete, Sevier, Summit, Tooele, Uintah, Utah, Wasatch, Washington, Wayne, Weber, Platte, Sublette, Teton, Weston, Albany, Campbell, Carbon, Converse, Crook, Laramie, Lincoln, Natrona, Niobrara. LEGAL - Not Applicable. Sagebrush lands in National Forests of Nevada, Utah, southern Idaho, southwest Montana, southwest & south-central Wyoming and northern Colorado.
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R2 - Rocky Mountain Region, Occurring in more than one Forest (excluding Regionwide)
Project Name	Project Purpose	Planning Status	Decision	Expected Implementation	Project Contact
Powerline Authorization for Black Hills Power Corporation CE	- Special use management	In Progress: Scoping Start 02/28/2022	Expected:11/2023	11/2023	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Special use authorization for existing 230-kV and 69-kV electrical powerlines, including Wyodak-Hot Springs and Tekla-Osage-Rapid City lines. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61935
Location: UNIT - Hell Canyon Ranger District, Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - South Dakota, Wyoming. COUNTY - Custer, Fall River, Weston. LEGAL - T46N R63W and others. Thunder Basin NG and Black Hills NF.
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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Occurring in more than one District (excluding Forestwide)	R2 - Rocky Mountain Region
Project Name	Project Purpose	Planning Status	Decision	Expected Implementation	Project Contact
Britania Land Exchange CE *UPDATED*	- Land ownership management - Land acquisition	In Progress: Scoping Start 03/31/2023	Expected:03/2024	04/2024	Robert Robertson 307-358-4690 robert.robertson@usda.gov
Description: Land-for-land exchange proposal Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63414
Location: UNIT - Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District, Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany, Carbon. LEGAL - Sec. 28, 33, 34 T25N R71W. Sec. 3, 4, 8 T24N R71W. Sec. 28, 29 T26N R72W. Sec. 26 T28N R71W. Mineral Survey No. 362 T14N R86W. 6th Principal Meridian. Medicine Bow National Forest, Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District and Douglas Ranger District.
High Alpine Seasonal Road Closure Extensions CE *UPDATED*	- Recreation management - Watershed management - Road management	On Hold	N/A	N/A	Lucie Law 307-745-2339 Lucie.Law@usda.gov
Description: Extend the seasonal wheeled-motorized vehicle closure dates or locations on several high alpine roads. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=59222
Location: UNIT - Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District, Laramie Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany, Carbon. LEGAL - T16N R80W, T17N R80W, T16N R79W and T15N R79W. Laramie RD and Brush Creek-Hayden RD.
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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)	R2 - Rocky Mountain Region
Project Name	Project Purpose	Planning Status	Decision	Expected Implementation	Project Contact
Mill Creek Ranch - Small Tracts Act Conveyance CE	- Land ownership management	In Progress: Scoping Start 01/16/2014	Expected:08/2023	09/2023	Amber Horne 307.326.2532 amber.horne@usda.gov
Description: Land interchange between the Forest Service and Mill Creek Ranch under the Small Tracts Act. Each entity will convey 5 acres and acquire 5 acres. Project will resolve boundary line issues related to discrepancies found in the original land surveys. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=59234
Location: UNIT - Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Carbon. LEGAL - NW1/4 Section 23, 14 N., 87 W., 6th P.M., Carbon County, WY. The Mill Creek Ranch private inholding is located at the end of NFSR 822 (Aspen Road). The five acres to be conveyed is located on the north-east boundary of the property.
West Fork Battle Creek Watershed Plan EIS *UPDATED*	- Land ownership management	In Progress: NOI in Federal Register 12/28/2022 Est. DEIS NOA in Federal Register 09/2024	Expected:06/2025	07/2025	Jessica Vogt 000-000-0000 Jessica.Vogt@usda.gov
Description: Evaluating a proposal to exchange about 1,762 acres of USFS-managed lands with up to about 4,400 acres managed by the State of Wyoming. Part of a larger NRCS-led project that could include a new reservoir, partly on lands currently managed by USFS. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63355
Location: UNIT - Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Carbon. LEGAL - T14N, R87W, Sec. 36; T14N, R86W, Sec. 31; T13N, R87W, Secs. 1, 2, and 12; and T13N, R86W, Section 6. Federal parcel in the Sierra Madre range, near WY State Hwy 70 and West Fork Battle Creek, about 19 west of Encampment and 28 miles east of Baggs. State parcels scattered across the Sierra Madre.
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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)	R2 - Rocky Mountain Region
Project Name	Project Purpose	Planning Status	Decision	Expected Implementation	Project Contact
Amendment to Special Use Authorization for Telecommunication Line (R T COMMCTNS INC) CE *UPDATED*	- Special use management	In Progress: Scoping Start 10/05/2020	Expected:02/2024	02/2024	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Right-of-way to install a buried telecommunication conduit and connect to an existing telecommunication line to provide service to a nearby customer. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=59083
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Weston. LEGAL - Sec 7 T44N R64W. Sec. 7 T44N R64W.
Charybdis 3D Seismic Survey Phase 2 CE *UPDATED*	- Minerals and Geology	On Hold	N/A	N/A	James McKay 307-358-4690 james.mckay@usda.gov
Description: Geophysical 3-D seismic survey. Proponent is Devon Energy. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=57566
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Townships 37, 38, 39 N Ranges 67, 68, 69 W. 40 Miles NE of Douglas. Headwaters of Cheyenne River, Cow Creek, Rat Creek, Dry Creek, Lightening Creek. Thunder Basin NG.
Converse County Oil and Gas Project EIS *UPDATED*	- Minerals and Geology	On Hold	N/A	N/A	Kyle Schumacher (307) 358-4690 Kyle.Schumacher@usda.gov
Description: Oil and natural gas exploration and development. Approximately 4 percent of project area is on Thunder Basin NG. The lead agency of the EIS is the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service is a cooperating agency. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=44124
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Townships 32 through 40 North, Ranges 67 through 76 West, 6th Principal Meridian. Northern portion of Converse County, north of Interstate Highway 25. Thunder Basin National Grassland.
Cow Creek, Deer Creek, and Devil's Pass Habitat Improvement CE *UPDATED*	- Wildlife, Fish, Rare plants - Vegetation management (other than forest products) - Fuels management	In Progress: Scoping Start 05/08/2023	Expected:04/2024	05/2024	Tim Byer 307-358-4690 timothy.byer@usda.gov
Description: Integrated vegetation management, migratory bird habitat improvement, hand crew work in roadless area. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64405
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - Sec 15, 22 T26N R73W. Sec 13, 24 T28N R74W; Sec 18, 19 T28N R73W. Sec 31 T30N R76W. Between Sugarloaf Mtn. and Cow Cr. Mtn. access NFS Road 637. Deer Creek south of Gunnysack Peak access by NFS Road 659 and Trail 659. Devil's Pass area south LaBonte Cr./S. Fork access Trail 635.
Friend Park and Round Mountain Vegetation Management CE *UPDATED*	- Forest products - Vegetation management (other than forest products) - Fuels management	In Progress: Scoping Start 05/08/2023	Expected:03/2024	05/2024	Nicholas Collard 307-358-4690 nicholas.collard@usda.gov
Description: Integrated vegetation management, fuels management, hand crew work in roadless area. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64403
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - T27N R72W Sec. 32, 33, 34. T26N R72W Sec. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 17, 18, 19, 20. In Laramie Mountains, the vicinity of Friend Park and Round Mountain, east of Eagle Mountain, access by NFS Road 671.
Groundwater Quality Monitoring Wells - Gibson Draw CE	- Special use management	In Progress: Scoping Start 10/13/2023	Expected:11/2023	11/2023	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Installation of several water quality monitoring wells on 4 acres of upland rangeland. Part of remediation of natural gas leak from gas facilities located on adjacent private land to the north of the project area. Proponent is Tallgrass Energy LP. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65096
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - NE Section 6 T40N R69W. Near Irwin Ranch Booster Station, M W Ranch site, and Gibson Draw a tributary to Antelope Cr. approx. 3 miles downstream from Porcupine Cr. confluence, 2 miles northeast of Red Hills.
Harris Park Vegetation Management CE *UPDATED*	- Forest products - Vegetation management (other than forest products) - Fuels management	In Progress: Scoping Start 05/08/2023	Expected:03/2024	04/2024	Nicholas Collard 307-358-4690 nicholas.collard@usda.gov
Description: Integrated vegetation management, fuels reduction, hand crew work in roadless area portion. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64404
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - T28N R71W Sec. 27, 34. North of Harris Park, in Soldier Creek watershed area, access by NFS Road 633 (Harris Park Road).
Lonetree Creek Utility Special Uses CE *UPDATED*	- Special use management	Completed	Actual: 02/03/2020	05/2024	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Buried electric power and produced-water lines, for oil and gas operations, and co-located temporary surface water line. Proponent is Devon Energy. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=56995
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Sec. 17 T39N R71W. Thunder Basin NG, Lonetree Creek watershed.
Mineral Material Area Expansion and Contract Re-issuance at North Antelope Rochelle Mine EA *UPDATED*	- Minerals and Geology	Developing Proposal Est. Scoping Start 04/2024	Expected:10/2024	01/2025	James McKay 307-358-4690 james.mckay@usda.gov
Description: Expansion of mineral material/scoria mining sites and re-issuance of mineral material sale contract to Peabody Powder River Mining, LLC. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=59679
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Campbell. LEGAL - Sec 9, 10, 21 T41N R70W; Sec 18 T42N R69W; Sec 13, 14 T42N R70W. North Antelope Rochelle Mine area, and Thunder Basin NG.
Powerlines to Oil Well Pads in Clareton Oil Field CE *UPDATED*	- Minerals and Geology - Special use management - Facility management	On Hold	N/A	N/A	Kyle Schumacher (307) 358-4690 Kyle.Schumacher@usda.gov
Description: Installation of buried electrical power lines along National Forest System Road 1258 and spur roads, which are not open to motorized public travel, to serve oil well pads in the Clareton Oil Field. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=62810
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Weston. LEGAL - Sec. 8 and 9 T42N R65W. 1 to 2 miles east of County route 7C, Bruce Road. Thunder Basin NG.
REALIGNMENT OF OIL PIPELINE AT NORTH ANTELOPE ROCHELLE MINE CE *UPDATED*	- Special use management	Completed	Actual: 12/12/2023	12/2023	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Realignment of an oil and gas pipeline segment to accommodate coal mining operations on the western area of North Antelope Rochelle Mine. Proponent is WES Powder River Holdings LLC. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65312
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Campbell. LEGAL - Sec. 34 T42N R71W, Sec. 3 T41N R71W. Between Antelope Road and Matheson Road west of Teckla, between Horse Creek and Porcupine Creek watersheds.
Removal of Trespass Pipeline CE *UPDATED*	- Special use management	Completed	Actual: 08/31/2020	11/2023	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Authorization of a right-of-way and reclamation activities to remove a recently installed crude oil pipeline that was not in operation. The pipeline was initially misaligned onto a parcel of the national grassland. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=58546
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Campbell. LEGAL - Sec. 7 and 8 T41N R72W. Southeast of Reno Flats between Little Bates Creek and Spring Creek, Thunder Basin NG.
Renewal of Special Use Authorizations for RT Communications CE *UPDATED*	- Special use management	Completed	Actual: 09/30/2019	11/2023	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Issuance of new special use authorizations for a new term to replace expired authorizations. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=56510
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Weston, Campbell, Crook. LEGAL - T41N R71W, T42N R71W, T43N R71W, T43N R72W, T44N R69W, T44N R70W, T46N R63W, T47N R63W, T47N R64W, T47N R65W, T48N R65W, T48N R66W, 6th P.M. Thunder Basin NG.
Road Use Authorization and Right of Way for Non-system Road Connecting to County Road 34 CE	- Special use management	In Progress: Scoping Start 09/01/2022	Expected:11/2023	11/2023	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Commercial road use of existing non-system road connecting County Road 34 (Jenney Trail Road) with private land. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63022
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Sec. 27 T39N R73W. Between Jenney Trail Road and private land to the east in Section 27.
Road Use Authorization for National Forest System Roads 925, 925.A, and 930 and Non-System Roads CE *UPDATED*	- Special use management - Road management	Completed	Actual: 12/01/2022	11/2023	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Commercial road use and maintenance and right-of-way authorization of existing system and non-system roads. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63030
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Weston, Campbell. LEGAL - Sections 18, 19, 20, 29, and 32 T43N R68W, SEC. 1 AND 12 T43N R69W, SEC. 4, 8, 17, AND 31 T44N R68W, 6th P.M. NFSR 930 (Keeline Road) and other connecting roads, north of Highway 450.
Road Use and Right-of-Way NFSR 1052 CE *UPDATED*	- Special use management - Road management	Completed	Actual: 09/05/2023	11/2023	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Right-of-way for commercial road use for mineral development of Laramide Fed oil well, operation, improvements, and maintenance of National Forest System Road 1052, 1052.A, and other connected system or non-system road. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64719
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Campbell. LEGAL - Sec 5 T53N R69W, Sec 32 T54N R69W. Thunder Basin NG - Spring Creek Unit, Spring Creek watershed, south of York Road and York Ranch approx. 1 mile.
Road use and water line - Continental Natural Resources CE *UPDATED*	- Special use management	Completed	Actual: 01/05/2023	11/2023	Robena Downie 307-358-4690 Robena.Downie@usda.gov
Description: Commercial road and water line uses and operation. Proponent is Continental Natural Resources. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61299
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - T38N R73W and T39N R73W; non-system road is located in Sec 27 T39N R73W. Thunder Basin NG.
Special Use Authorization - State 1-5 and 1-8 Oil Well Pads and Road Use CE *UPDATED*	- Minerals and Geology - Special use management	In Progress: Scoping Start 03/13/2024	Expected:04/2024	04/2024	Joseph Sampson 307-358-4690 Jordan.Sampson@usda.gov
Description: Authorization of two off-lease operational oil well sites and associated commercial road use. These sites became part of national grassland upon a prior land exchange. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65135
Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Sec. 4, 5, 8, and 9 T40N R69W. Access by NFS Road 973, NFSR 1400.B, and other connecting routes, within the Antelope Cr. watershed.
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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)	R2 - Rocky Mountain Region
Project Name	Project Purpose	Planning Status	Decision	Expected Implementation	Project Contact
Bears Ears Fuels Reduction and Restoration Project EA *UPDATED*	- Wildlife, Fish, Rare plants - Vegetation management (other than forest products) - Fuels management - Watershed management - Road management	In Progress: Scoping Start 04/15/2022	Expected:05/2024	07/2024	Kevin Thompson 970-638-4170 kevin.thompson@usda.gov
Description: Reduce wildfire risk to the communities of Wilderness Ranch, Hitch Mountain, and Quaker Mountain and to the Elkhead Reservoir. To enhance efforts to protect watersheds and address threats to forest and rangeland health. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63970
Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Moffat, Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. The proposed project area is located on the Hahns Peak Bears Ears Ranger District of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland in the state of Colorado.
HBE764 - Storm Peak Lab Permit Renewal CE *NEW LISTING*	- Special use management	In Progress: Scoping Start 11/08/2023	Expected:05/2024	05/2024	Kathleen Soulliere 970-870-2222 kathleen.soulliere@usda.gov
Description: The University of Utah acquired the Storm Peak Laboratory and has requested re-issuance of their special use authorization. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65602
Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Section 29, Township 6 North, Range 83 West, 6th Principal Meridian. The Storm Peak Lab is located at the top of Mount Werner off National Forest System Road 321.1 on the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District on the Routt National Forest.
Iron Mountain Vegetation Management Project CE *NEW LISTING*	- Forest products	Developing Proposal Est. Scoping Start 04/2024	Expected:11/2024	07/2025	Samuel Hahn 970-870-2263 Samuel.Hahn@usda.gov
Description: Treating forests affected by a mountain pine beetle epidemic to create optimum conditions for timber resiliency, growth, and health, reduce large fuels, address dwarf mistletoe infections, and provide commercial forest products. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65886
Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. 27 miles northwest of Steamboat Springs in an area of North Routt County east of Sand Mountain and south of the town of Columbine.
Mad Rabbit Trails Project EA	- Recreation management	In Progress: Objection Period Legal Notice 08/12/2023	Expected:01/2024	01/2024	Brendan Kelly 970-827-5151 brendan.kelly@usda.gov
Description: Proposed trails changes and/or new trails construction, mostly in the Rabbit Ears Pass and Rocky Peak areas. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=50917
Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. Mad Creek/Rocky Peak and Rabbit Ears areas.
Mount Werner Facility #4 Shelter Replacement Project CE *NEW LISTING*	- Facility management	In Progress: Scoping Start 12/08/2023	Expected:06/2024	07/2024	Kathleen Soulliere 970-870-2222 kathleen.soulliere@usda.gov
Description: USDA Forest Service Chief Information Office Land Mobile Radio has proposed to replace the existing communications shelter Mt. Werner Facility #4 at the Mt. Werner Complex Communications Site. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65763
Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. The Mt. Werner Complex Communications Site is located at the top of Mount Werner off National Forest System Road 321.1 on the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District of the Routt National Forest.
Walton Peak East Vegetation Management Project CE *UPDATED*	- Forest products - Vegetation management (other than forest products) - Fuels management	In Progress: Scoping Start 04/19/2023	Expected:05/2024	06/2024	Samuel Hahn 970-870-2263 Samuel.Hahn@usda.gov
Description: The project is designed as a response to the Mountain Pine Beetle (MPB) epidemic. It has been proposed to increase the pace of restoration and resiliency of National Forest System lands and further the goals of the Routt National Forest Plan. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64022
Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. The project is located within the Red Dirt, Middle Yampa, and Grizzly Creek Geographic Areas of the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears and Yampa Ranger Districts in Routt County Colorado.
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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Laramie Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)	R2 - Rocky Mountain Region
Project Name	Project Purpose	Planning Status	Decision	Expected Implementation	Project Contact
Paul Anderson Reconnaissance Survey - Accessing Unpatented Mineral Claims CE	- Minerals and Geology	On Hold	N/A	N/A	Amber Horne 307.326.2532 amber.horne@usda.gov
Description: Reconnaissance survey and mapping in order to plan strategies for accessing mining claims in preparation for gold mining. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=58061
Location: UNIT - Laramie Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - Section 36, T. 14 N., R. 79 W., 6th P.M., Albany County, Wyoming. Six unpatented mining claims in the Muddy Creek area.
Pilot Hill Connector Trail Phase 2 CE *NEW LISTING*	- Recreation management	In Progress: Scoping Start 03/21/2024	Expected:06/2024	08/2024	Jonathan Brooks 307-745-2390 jonathan.c.brooks@usda.gov
Description: This is the second phase of the Pilot Hill Connector Trail which will connect the existing section that ends at FSR 714 with the Happy Jack Recreation Area. This section is approximately 4 miles and length and would be managed as a trail class 3 mul
Location: UNIT - Laramie Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - Not Applicable. T 15N R74W Sec. 24.
Troy Minerals Core Drilling CE *UPDATED*	- Minerals and Geology	In Progress: Scoping Start 03/01/2024	Expected:05/2024	06/2024	Amber Horne 307.326.2532 amber.horne@usda.gov
Description: Take bedrock core samples from 19 separate locations (drill pads) to map area stratigraphy. Drills will take place on unpatented mineral claims. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=58070
Location: UNIT - Laramie Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - Sections 33 & 34, T. 14 N., R. 78 W., 6th P.M. Carbon County, WY. Sections 2 & 3, T. 13 N., R. 78 W., 6th P.M., Carbon County, WY. . All 19 proposed drill pads will be located on the Laramie District south of Lake Owen.
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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Yampa Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)	R2 - Rocky Mountain Region
Project Name	Project Purpose	Planning Status	Decision	Expected Implementation	Project Contact
Green Creek Fence Construction CE *UPDATED*	- Grazing management	Completed	Actual: 02/07/2024	06/2024	Douglas Myhre 970-638-4516 douglas.myhre@usda.gov
Description: This project proposes to construct approximately 0.25 miles of drift fence in the Green Creek area. Fence will be constructed using wildlife friendly fencing techniques and will help with livestock drift.
Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Southwest 1/4, Northeast 1/4 of Section 22, Township 4 North, Range 83 West. Approximate location is 5.5 miles south of US Highway 40 on Forest Service Road 100, then approximately 3 miles west down a closed road towards to Green Creek.
Silver Creek Fire Tree Planting CE *NEW LISTING*	- Vegetation management (other than forest products)	Completed	Actual: 02/07/2024	06/2024	Samuel Hahn 970-819-6663 Samuel.Hahn@usda.gov
Description: Planting of lodgepole pine seedlings across 100 acres of fire-killed lodgepole pine forest to create favorable conditions for recruitment and improve watershed conditions and wildlife habitat within the 2018 Silver Creek fire burn scar. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65423
Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Grand. LEGAL - Not Applicable. 18 miles northeast of Yampa within the Red Dirt Creek watershed.
South Routt Fuels Reduction Project EA	- Vegetation management (other than forest products) - Fuels management - Road management	Developing Proposal Est. Scoping Start 09/2023	Expected:09/2024	10/2024	Kevin Thompson 970-638-4170 kevin.thompson@usda.gov
Description: Fuels reduction project to improve public and firefighter safety, protect key infrastructure, and improve forest health and regeneration. Also proposes management actions to improve the forest transportation system. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64833
Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Grand, Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. Located in Routt and Grand counties, Colorado, approximately 3 air miles northeast of Yampa (Routt Co.) and extending to approximately 7 miles west of Kremmling (Grand Co.).
YAM172- Dunkley-Dubeau Reservoir ROW Access CE *UPDATED*	- Special use management	In Progress: Scoping Start 06/01/2023	Expected:04/2024	05/2024	Kathleen Soulliere 970-870-2222 kathleen.soulliere@usda.gov
Description: Co-owners of the Dunkley-Dubeau Reservoir request a permit to access the reservoir for operation and maintenance. A new permit from private property south-east along NFSR 952.1 would authorize a road approximately 0.8 miles and 15 feet wide. Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64230
Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. National Forest System Road 952.1. Sec 1 & 2, T. 4 N, R. 88 W., 6TH Principal Meridian, Yampa Ranger District of the Routt National Forest, Routt County, Colorado.
Yampa Pipeline Maintenance CE *UPDATED*	- Facility management	In Progress: Scoping Start 05/03/2021	Expected:05/2024	06/2024	Kristopher Skinner 970-870-2299 Kristopher.Skinner@usda.gov
Description: Restore Yampa Pipeline function by reconstructing spring box in a location approximately 100 feet downstream of existing spring box and reconnecting to the existing cistern Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61971
Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. Approximately 650 feet north of Yampa Ranger District Office,T2N, R85W, Sec 15.
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA)
04/01/2024 to 06/30/2024
Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest

This report contains the best available information at the time of publication. Questions may be directed to the Project Contact.

Projects Occurring Nationwide

Project Name

Project Purpose

Planning Status

Decision

Expected Implementation

Project Contact

Land Management Plan Direction for Old-Growth Forest Conditions Across the National Forest System
EIS

*UPDATED*

- Land management planning

In Progress:
NOI in Federal Register 12/20/2023
Est. DEIS NOA in Federal Register 06/2024

Expected:01/2025

01/2025

Jennifer McRae
505-377-3145
Jennifer.McRae@usda.gov

Description: Amend all land management plans for units of the National Forest System to include consistent direction to conserve and steward existing and recruit future old-growth forest conditions and to monitor their condition across planning areas of NFS.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65356

Location: UNIT - All Districts-level Units. STATE - All States. COUNTY - All Counties. LEGAL - Not Applicable. National Forests and Grasslands (128 units).

Locatable Mining Rule - 36 CFR 228, subpart A.
EIS

- Regulations, Directives, Orders

On Hold

N/A

Sarah Shoemaker
907-586-7886
sarahshoemaker@fs.fed.us

Description: The U.S. Department of Agriculture proposes revisions to its regulations at 36 CFR 228, Subpart A governing locatable minerals operations on National Forest System lands.A draft EIS & proposed rule should be available for review/comment in late 2020
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=57214

Location: UNIT - All Districts-level Units. STATE - All States. COUNTY - All Counties. LEGAL - Not Applicable. These regulations apply to all NFS lands open to mineral entry under the US mining laws. More Information is available at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/science-technology/geology/minerals/locatable-minerals/current-revisions.

Nationwide Aerial Application of Fire Retardant on National Forest System Land.
EIS

*UPDATED*

- Regulations, Directives, Orders

Completed

Actual: 02/06/2024

02/2024

Laura Conway
406-802-4317
laura.conway@usda.gov

Description: Programmatic Supplemental EIS for the Nationwide Aerial Application of Fire Retardant on National Forest System Land.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=60450

Location: UNIT - All Districts-level Units. STATE - All States. COUNTY - All Counties. LEGAL - Not Applicable. The direction in the SEIS will apply to use of aerially delivered fire retardant on all National Forest System land. .

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Projects Occurring in more than one Region (excluding Nationwide)

Project Name

Project Purpose

Planning Status

Decision

Expected Implementation

Project Contact

Amendments to Land Management Plans Regarding Sage-grouse Conservation
EIS

- Land management planning
- Wildlife, Fish, Rare plants

In Progress:
Objection Period Legal Notice 08/02/2019

Expected:12/2020

01/2021

John Shivik
801-625-5667
john.shivik@usda.gov

Description: The Forest Service is considering amending its land management plans to address new and evolving issues arising since implementing sage-grouse plans in 2015. This project is in cooperation with the USDI Bureau of Land Management.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=52904

Location: UNIT - Ashley National Forest All Units, Boise National Forest All Units, Bridger-Teton National Forest All Units, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest All Units, Dixie National Forest All Units, Fishlake National Forest All Units, Salmon-Challis National Forest All Units, Sawtooth National Forest All Units, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest All Units, Manti-La Sal National Forest All Units, Caribou-Targhee National Forest All Units, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache All Units. STATE - Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming. COUNTY - Jackson, Moffat, Routt, Adams, Blaine, Bonneville, Camas, Caribou, Cassia, Elmore, Fremont, Madison, Churchill, Clark, Elko, Eureka, Humboldt, Lincoln, Nye, Pershing, Washoe, White Pine, Beaver, Box Elder, Cache, Carbon, Daggett, Davis, Duchesne, Emery, Garfield, Grand, Iron, Juab, Kane, Millard, Morgan, Piute, Rich, Salt Lake, San Juan, Sanpete, Sevier, Summit, Tooele, Uintah, Utah, Wasatch, Washington, Wayne, Weber, Platte, Sublette, Teton, Weston, Albany, Campbell, Carbon, Converse, Crook, Laramie, Lincoln, Natrona, Niobrara. LEGAL - Not Applicable. Sagebrush lands in National Forests of Nevada, Utah, southern Idaho, southwest Montana, southwest & south-central Wyoming and northern Colorado.

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R2 - Rocky Mountain Region, Occurring in more than one Forest (excluding Regionwide)

Project Name

Project Purpose

Planning Status

Decision

Expected Implementation

Project Contact

Powerline Authorization for Black Hills Power Corporation
CE

- Special use management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 02/28/2022

Expected:11/2023

11/2023

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Special use authorization for existing 230-kV and 69-kV electrical powerlines, including Wyodak-Hot Springs and Tekla-Osage-Rapid City lines.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61935

Location: UNIT - Hell Canyon Ranger District, Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - South Dakota, Wyoming. COUNTY - Custer, Fall River, Weston. LEGAL - T46N R63W and others. Thunder Basin NG and Black Hills NF.

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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Occurring in more than one District (excluding Forestwide)

R2 - Rocky Mountain Region

Project Name

Project Purpose

Planning Status

Decision

Expected Implementation

Project Contact

Britania Land Exchange
CE

*UPDATED*

- Land ownership management
- Land acquisition

In Progress:
Scoping Start 03/31/2023

Expected:03/2024

04/2024

Robert Robertson
307-358-4690
robert.robertson@usda.gov

Description: Land-for-land exchange proposal
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63414

Location: UNIT - Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District, Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany, Carbon. LEGAL - Sec. 28, 33, 34 T25N R71W. Sec. 3, 4, 8 T24N R71W. Sec. 28, 29 T26N R72W. Sec. 26 T28N R71W. Mineral Survey No. 362 T14N R86W. 6th Principal Meridian. Medicine Bow National Forest, Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District and Douglas Ranger District.

High Alpine Seasonal Road Closure Extensions
CE

*UPDATED*

- Recreation management
- Watershed management
- Road management

On Hold

N/A

Lucie Law
307-745-2339
Lucie.Law@usda.gov

Description: Extend the seasonal wheeled-motorized vehicle closure dates or locations on several high alpine roads.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=59222

Location: UNIT - Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District, Laramie Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany, Carbon. LEGAL - T16N R80W, T17N R80W, T16N R79W and T15N R79W. Laramie RD and Brush Creek-Hayden RD.

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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)

R2 - Rocky Mountain Region

Project Name

Project Purpose

Planning Status

Decision

Expected Implementation

Project Contact

Mill Creek Ranch - Small Tracts Act Conveyance
CE

- Land ownership management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 01/16/2014

Expected:08/2023

09/2023

Amber Horne
307.326.2532
amber.horne@usda.gov

Description: Land interchange between the Forest Service and Mill Creek Ranch under the Small Tracts Act. Each entity will convey 5 acres and acquire 5 acres. Project will resolve boundary line issues related to discrepancies found in the original land surveys.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=59234

Location: UNIT - Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Carbon. LEGAL - NW1/4 Section 23, 14 N., 87 W., 6th P.M., Carbon County, WY. The Mill Creek Ranch private inholding is located at the end of NFSR 822 (Aspen Road). The five acres to be conveyed is located on the north-east boundary of the property.

West Fork Battle Creek Watershed Plan
EIS

*UPDATED*

- Land ownership management

In Progress:
NOI in Federal Register 12/28/2022
Est. DEIS NOA in Federal Register 09/2024

Expected:06/2025

07/2025

Jessica Vogt
000-000-0000
Jessica.Vogt@usda.gov

Description: Evaluating a proposal to exchange about 1,762 acres of USFS-managed lands with up to about 4,400 acres managed by the State of Wyoming. Part of a larger NRCS-led project that could include a new reservoir, partly on lands currently managed by USFS.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63355

Location: UNIT - Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Carbon. LEGAL - T14N, R87W, Sec. 36; T14N, R86W, Sec. 31; T13N, R87W, Secs. 1, 2, and 12; and T13N, R86W, Section 6. Federal parcel in the Sierra Madre range, near WY State Hwy 70 and West Fork Battle Creek, about 19 west of Encampment and 28 miles east of Baggs. State parcels scattered across the Sierra Madre.

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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)

R2 - Rocky Mountain Region

Project Name

Project Purpose

Planning Status

Decision

Expected Implementation

Project Contact

Amendment to Special Use Authorization for Telecommunication Line (R T COMMCTNS INC)
CE

*UPDATED*

- Special use management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 10/05/2020

Expected:02/2024

02/2024

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Right-of-way to install a buried telecommunication conduit and connect to an existing telecommunication line to provide service to a nearby customer.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=59083

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Weston. LEGAL - Sec 7 T44N R64W. Sec. 7 T44N R64W.

Charybdis 3D Seismic Survey Phase 2
CE

*UPDATED*

- Minerals and Geology

On Hold

N/A

James McKay
307-358-4690
james.mckay@usda.gov

Description: Geophysical 3-D seismic survey. Proponent is Devon Energy.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=57566

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Townships 37, 38, 39 N Ranges 67, 68, 69 W. 40 Miles NE of Douglas. Headwaters of Cheyenne River, Cow Creek, Rat Creek, Dry Creek, Lightening Creek. Thunder Basin NG.

Converse County Oil and Gas Project
EIS

*UPDATED*

- Minerals and Geology

On Hold

N/A

Kyle Schumacher
(307) 358-4690
Kyle.Schumacher@usda.gov

Description: Oil and natural gas exploration and development. Approximately 4 percent of project area is on Thunder Basin NG. The lead agency of the EIS is the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service is a cooperating agency.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=44124

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Townships 32 through 40 North, Ranges 67 through 76 West, 6th Principal Meridian. Northern portion of Converse County, north of Interstate Highway 25. Thunder Basin National Grassland.

Cow Creek, Deer Creek, and Devil's Pass Habitat Improvement
CE

*UPDATED*

- Wildlife, Fish, Rare plants
- Vegetation management (other than forest products)
- Fuels management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 05/08/2023

Expected:04/2024

05/2024

Tim Byer
307-358-4690
timothy.byer@usda.gov

Description: Integrated vegetation management, migratory bird habitat improvement, hand crew work in roadless area.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64405

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - Sec 15, 22 T26N R73W. Sec 13, 24 T28N R74W; Sec 18, 19 T28N R73W. Sec 31 T30N R76W. Between Sugarloaf Mtn. and Cow Cr. Mtn. access NFS Road 637. Deer Creek south of Gunnysack Peak access by NFS Road 659 and Trail 659. Devil's Pass area south LaBonte Cr./S. Fork access Trail 635.

Friend Park and Round Mountain Vegetation Management
CE

*UPDATED*

- Forest products
- Vegetation management (other than forest products)
- Fuels management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 05/08/2023

Expected:03/2024

05/2024

Nicholas Collard
307-358-4690
nicholas.collard@usda.gov

Description: Integrated vegetation management, fuels management, hand crew work in roadless area.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64403

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - T27N R72W Sec. 32, 33, 34. T26N R72W Sec. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 17, 18, 19, 20. In Laramie Mountains, the vicinity of Friend Park and Round Mountain, east of Eagle Mountain, access by NFS Road 671.

Groundwater Quality Monitoring Wells - Gibson Draw
CE

- Special use management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 10/13/2023

Expected:11/2023

11/2023

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Installation of several water quality monitoring wells on 4 acres of upland rangeland. Part of remediation of natural gas leak from gas facilities located on adjacent private land to the north of the project area. Proponent is Tallgrass Energy LP.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65096

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - NE Section 6 T40N R69W. Near Irwin Ranch Booster Station, M W Ranch site, and Gibson Draw a tributary to Antelope Cr. approx. 3 miles downstream from Porcupine Cr. confluence, 2 miles northeast of Red Hills.

Harris Park Vegetation Management
CE

*UPDATED*

- Forest products
- Vegetation management (other than forest products)
- Fuels management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 05/08/2023

Expected:03/2024

04/2024

Nicholas Collard
307-358-4690
nicholas.collard@usda.gov

Description: Integrated vegetation management, fuels reduction, hand crew work in roadless area portion.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64404

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - T28N R71W Sec. 27, 34. North of Harris Park, in Soldier Creek watershed area, access by NFS Road 633 (Harris Park Road).

Lonetree Creek Utility Special Uses
CE

*UPDATED*

- Special use management

Completed

Actual: 02/03/2020

05/2024

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Buried electric power and produced-water lines, for oil and gas operations, and co-located temporary surface water line. Proponent is Devon Energy.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=56995

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Sec. 17 T39N R71W. Thunder Basin NG, Lonetree Creek watershed.

Mineral Material Area Expansion and Contract Re-issuance at North Antelope Rochelle Mine
EA

*UPDATED*

- Minerals and Geology

Developing Proposal
Est. Scoping Start 04/2024

Expected:10/2024

01/2025

James McKay
307-358-4690
james.mckay@usda.gov

Description: Expansion of mineral material/scoria mining sites and re-issuance of mineral material sale contract to Peabody Powder River Mining, LLC.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=59679

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Campbell. LEGAL - Sec 9, 10, 21 T41N R70W; Sec 18 T42N R69W; Sec 13, 14 T42N R70W. North Antelope Rochelle Mine area, and Thunder Basin NG.

Powerlines to Oil Well Pads in Clareton Oil Field
CE

*UPDATED*

- Minerals and Geology
- Special use management
- Facility management

On Hold

N/A

Kyle Schumacher
(307) 358-4690
Kyle.Schumacher@usda.gov

Description: Installation of buried electrical power lines along National Forest System Road 1258 and spur roads, which are not open to motorized public travel, to serve oil well pads in the Clareton Oil Field.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=62810

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Weston. LEGAL - Sec. 8 and 9 T42N R65W. 1 to 2 miles east of County route 7C, Bruce Road. Thunder Basin NG.

REALIGNMENT OF OIL PIPELINE AT NORTH ANTELOPE ROCHELLE MINE
CE

*UPDATED*

- Special use management

Completed

Actual: 12/12/2023

12/2023

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Realignment of an oil and gas pipeline segment to accommodate coal mining operations on the western area of North Antelope Rochelle Mine. Proponent is WES Powder River Holdings LLC.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65312

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Campbell. LEGAL - Sec. 34 T42N R71W, Sec. 3 T41N R71W. Between Antelope Road and Matheson Road west of Teckla, between Horse Creek and Porcupine Creek watersheds.

Removal of Trespass Pipeline
CE

*UPDATED*

- Special use management

Completed

Actual: 08/31/2020

11/2023

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Authorization of a right-of-way and reclamation activities to remove a recently installed crude oil pipeline that was not in operation. The pipeline was initially misaligned onto a parcel of the national grassland.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=58546

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Campbell. LEGAL - Sec. 7 and 8 T41N R72W. Southeast of Reno Flats between Little Bates Creek and Spring Creek, Thunder Basin NG.

Renewal of Special Use Authorizations for RT Communications
CE

*UPDATED*

- Special use management

Completed

Actual: 09/30/2019

11/2023

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Issuance of new special use authorizations for a new term to replace expired authorizations.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=56510

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Weston, Campbell, Crook. LEGAL - T41N R71W, T42N R71W, T43N R71W, T43N R72W, T44N R69W, T44N R70W, T46N R63W, T47N R63W, T47N R64W, T47N R65W, T48N R65W, T48N R66W, 6th P.M. Thunder Basin NG.

Road Use Authorization and Right of Way for Non-system Road Connecting to County Road 34
CE

- Special use management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 09/01/2022

Expected:11/2023

11/2023

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Commercial road use of existing non-system road connecting County Road 34 (Jenney Trail Road) with private land.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63022

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Sec. 27 T39N R73W. Between Jenney Trail Road and private land to the east in Section 27.

Road Use Authorization for National Forest System Roads 925, 925.A, and 930 and Non-System Roads
CE

*UPDATED*

- Special use management
- Road management

Completed

Actual: 12/01/2022

11/2023

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Commercial road use and maintenance and right-of-way authorization of existing system and non-system roads.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63030

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Weston, Campbell. LEGAL - Sections 18, 19, 20, 29, and 32 T43N R68W, SEC. 1 AND 12 T43N R69W, SEC. 4, 8, 17, AND 31 T44N R68W, 6th P.M. NFSR 930 (Keeline Road) and other connecting roads, north of Highway 450.

Road Use and Right-of-Way NFSR 1052
CE

*UPDATED*

- Special use management
- Road management

Completed

Actual: 09/05/2023

11/2023

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Right-of-way for commercial road use for mineral development of Laramide Fed oil well, operation, improvements, and maintenance of National Forest System Road 1052, 1052.A, and other connected system or non-system road.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64719

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Campbell. LEGAL - Sec 5 T53N R69W, Sec 32 T54N R69W. Thunder Basin NG - Spring Creek Unit, Spring Creek watershed, south of York Road and York Ranch approx. 1 mile.

Road use and water line - Continental Natural Resources
CE

*UPDATED*

- Special use management

Completed

Actual: 01/05/2023

11/2023

Robena Downie
307-358-4690
Robena.Downie@usda.gov

Description: Commercial road and water line uses and operation. Proponent is Continental Natural Resources.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61299

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - T38N R73W and T39N R73W; non-system road is located in Sec 27 T39N R73W. Thunder Basin NG.

Special Use Authorization - State 1-5 and 1-8 Oil Well Pads and Road Use
CE

*UPDATED*

- Minerals and Geology
- Special use management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 03/13/2024

Expected:04/2024

04/2024

Joseph Sampson
307-358-4690
Jordan.Sampson@usda.gov

Description: Authorization of two off-lease operational oil well sites and associated commercial road use. These sites became part of national grassland upon a prior land exchange.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65135

Location: UNIT - Douglas Ranger District and Thunder Basin National Grassland. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Converse. LEGAL - Sec. 4, 5, 8, and 9 T40N R69W. Access by NFS Road 973, NFSR 1400.B, and other connecting routes, within the Antelope Cr. watershed.

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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)

R2 - Rocky Mountain Region

Project Name

Project Purpose

Planning Status

Decision

Expected Implementation

Project Contact

Bears Ears Fuels Reduction and Restoration Project
EA

*UPDATED*

- Wildlife, Fish, Rare plants
- Vegetation management (other than forest products)
- Fuels management
- Watershed management
- Road management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 04/15/2022

Expected:05/2024

07/2024

Kevin Thompson
970-638-4170
kevin.thompson@usda.gov

Description: Reduce wildfire risk to the communities of Wilderness Ranch, Hitch Mountain, and Quaker Mountain and to the Elkhead Reservoir. To enhance efforts to protect watersheds and address threats to forest and rangeland health.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63970

Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Moffat, Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. The proposed project area is located on the Hahns Peak Bears Ears Ranger District of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland in the state of Colorado.

HBE764 - Storm Peak Lab Permit Renewal
CE

*NEW LISTING*

- Special use management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 11/08/2023

Expected:05/2024

05/2024

Kathleen Soulliere
970-870-2222
kathleen.soulliere@usda.gov

Description: The University of Utah acquired the Storm Peak Laboratory and has requested re-issuance of their special use authorization.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65602

Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Section 29, Township 6 North, Range 83 West, 6th Principal Meridian. The Storm Peak Lab is located at the top of Mount Werner off National Forest System Road 321.1 on the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District on the Routt National Forest.

Iron Mountain Vegetation Management Project
CE

*NEW LISTING*

- Forest products

Developing Proposal
Est. Scoping Start 04/2024

Expected:11/2024

07/2025

Samuel Hahn
970-870-2263
Samuel.Hahn@usda.gov

Description: Treating forests affected by a mountain pine beetle epidemic to create optimum conditions for timber resiliency, growth, and health, reduce large fuels, address dwarf mistletoe infections, and provide commercial forest products.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65886

Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. 27 miles northwest of Steamboat Springs in an area of North Routt County east of Sand Mountain and south of the town of Columbine.

Mad Rabbit Trails Project
EA

- Recreation management

In Progress:
Objection Period Legal Notice 08/12/2023

Expected:01/2024

01/2024

Brendan Kelly
970-827-5151
brendan.kelly@usda.gov

Description: Proposed trails changes and/or new trails construction, mostly in the Rabbit Ears Pass and Rocky Peak areas.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=50917

Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. Mad Creek/Rocky Peak and Rabbit Ears areas.

Mount Werner Facility #4 Shelter Replacement Project
CE

*NEW LISTING*

- Facility management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 12/08/2023

Expected:06/2024

07/2024

Kathleen Soulliere
970-870-2222
kathleen.soulliere@usda.gov

Description: USDA Forest Service Chief Information Office Land Mobile Radio has proposed to replace the existing communications shelter Mt. Werner Facility #4 at the Mt. Werner Complex Communications Site.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65763

Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. The Mt. Werner Complex Communications Site is located at the top of Mount Werner off National Forest System Road 321.1 on the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District of the Routt National Forest.

Walton Peak East Vegetation Management Project
CE

*UPDATED*

- Forest products
- Vegetation management (other than forest products)
- Fuels management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 04/19/2023

Expected:05/2024

06/2024

Samuel Hahn
970-870-2263
Samuel.Hahn@usda.gov

Description: The project is designed as a response to the Mountain Pine Beetle (MPB) epidemic. It has been proposed to increase the pace of restoration and resiliency of National Forest System lands and further the goals of the Routt National Forest Plan.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64022

Location: UNIT - Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. The project is located within the Red Dirt, Middle Yampa, and Grizzly Creek Geographic Areas of the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears and Yampa Ranger Districts in Routt County Colorado.

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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Laramie Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)

R2 - Rocky Mountain Region

Project Name

Project Purpose

Planning Status

Decision

Expected Implementation

Project Contact

Paul Anderson Reconnaissance Survey - Accessing Unpatented Mineral Claims
CE

- Minerals and Geology

On Hold

N/A

Amber Horne
307.326.2532
amber.horne@usda.gov

Description: Reconnaissance survey and mapping in order to plan strategies for accessing mining claims in preparation for gold mining.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=58061

Location: UNIT - Laramie Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - Section 36, T. 14 N., R. 79 W., 6th P.M., Albany County, Wyoming. Six unpatented mining claims in the Muddy Creek area.

Pilot Hill Connector Trail Phase 2
CE

*NEW LISTING*

- Recreation management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 03/21/2024

Expected:06/2024

08/2024

Jonathan Brooks
307-745-2390
jonathan.c.brooks@usda.gov

Description: This is the second phase of the Pilot Hill Connector Trail which will connect the existing section that ends at FSR 714 with the Happy Jack Recreation Area. This section is approximately 4 miles and length and would be managed as a trail class 3 mul

Location: UNIT - Laramie Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - Not Applicable. T 15N R74W Sec. 24.

Troy Minerals Core Drilling
CE

*UPDATED*

- Minerals and Geology

In Progress:
Scoping Start 03/01/2024

Expected:05/2024

06/2024

Amber Horne
307.326.2532
amber.horne@usda.gov

Description: Take bedrock core samples from 19 separate locations (drill pads) to map area stratigraphy. Drills will take place on unpatented mineral claims.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=58070

Location: UNIT - Laramie Ranger District. STATE - Wyoming. COUNTY - Albany. LEGAL - Sections 33 & 34, T. 14 N., R. 78 W., 6th P.M. Carbon County, WY. Sections 2 & 3, T. 13 N., R. 78 W., 6th P.M., Carbon County, WY. . All 19 proposed drill pads will be located on the Laramie District south of Lake Owen.

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Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Yampa Ranger District (excluding Projects occurring in more than one District)

R2 - Rocky Mountain Region

Project Name

Project Purpose

Planning Status

Decision

Expected Implementation

Project Contact

Green Creek Fence Construction
CE

*UPDATED*

- Grazing management

Completed

Actual: 02/07/2024

06/2024

Douglas Myhre
970-638-4516
douglas.myhre@usda.gov

Description: This project proposes to construct approximately 0.25 miles of drift fence in the Green Creek area. Fence will be constructed using wildlife friendly fencing techniques and will help with livestock drift.

Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Southwest 1/4, Northeast 1/4 of Section 22, Township 4 North, Range 83 West. Approximate location is 5.5 miles south of US Highway 40 on Forest Service Road 100, then approximately 3 miles west down a closed road towards to Green Creek.

Silver Creek Fire Tree Planting
CE

*NEW LISTING*

- Vegetation management (other than forest products)

Completed

Actual: 02/07/2024

06/2024

Samuel Hahn
970-819-6663
Samuel.Hahn@usda.gov

Description: Planting of lodgepole pine seedlings across 100 acres of fire-killed lodgepole pine forest to create favorable conditions for recruitment and improve watershed conditions and wildlife habitat within the 2018 Silver Creek fire burn scar.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=65423

Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Grand. LEGAL - Not Applicable. 18 miles northeast of Yampa within the Red Dirt Creek watershed.

South Routt Fuels Reduction Project
EA

- Vegetation management (other than forest products)
- Fuels management
- Road management

Developing Proposal
Est. Scoping Start 09/2023

Expected:09/2024

10/2024

Kevin Thompson
970-638-4170
kevin.thompson@usda.gov

Description: Fuels reduction project to improve public and firefighter safety, protect key infrastructure, and improve forest health and regeneration. Also proposes management actions to improve the forest transportation system.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64833

Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Grand, Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. Located in Routt and Grand counties, Colorado, approximately 3 air miles northeast of Yampa (Routt Co.) and extending to approximately 7 miles west of Kremmling (Grand Co.).

YAM172- Dunkley-Dubeau Reservoir ROW Access
CE

*UPDATED*

- Special use management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 06/01/2023

Expected:04/2024

05/2024

Kathleen Soulliere
970-870-2222
kathleen.soulliere@usda.gov

Description: Co-owners of the Dunkley-Dubeau Reservoir request a permit to access the reservoir for operation and maintenance. A new permit from private property south-east along NFSR 952.1 would authorize a road approximately 0.8 miles and 15 feet wide.
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=64230

Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. National Forest System Road 952.1. Sec 1 & 2, T. 4 N, R. 88 W., 6TH Principal Meridian, Yampa Ranger District of the Routt National Forest, Routt County, Colorado.

Yampa Pipeline Maintenance
CE

*UPDATED*

- Facility management

In Progress:
Scoping Start 05/03/2021

Expected:05/2024

06/2024

Kristopher Skinner
970-870-2299
Kristopher.Skinner@usda.gov

Description: Restore Yampa Pipeline function by reconstructing spring box in a location approximately 100 feet downstream of existing spring box and reconnecting to the existing cistern
Web Link: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61971

Location: UNIT - Yampa Ranger District. STATE - Colorado. COUNTY - Routt. LEGAL - Not Applicable. Approximately 650 feet north of Yampa Ranger District Office,T2N, R85W, Sec 15.

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Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA)04/01/2024 to 06/30/2024Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest

Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA)
04/01/2024 to 06/30/2024
Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest