Claremont Trails

Claremont Trails DM-FANEC wFigs AFS signed

PURPOSE AND NEED

Proposes about 45 miles of new single-track trail near Claremont Peak, as Class 2 trail for motorcycles with e-bike, bicycle, pedestrian and equestrian use.3

PROJECT LOCATION

Area lies entirely on National Forest land south of Quincy, accessed by an east trailhead on La Porte Road and a west trailhead at Lowell Bader Park.3

DECISION

Trails built to Class 2 standards with 8-24 inch tread, average grade under 10 percent, and two arched culverts at frog drainages; trails intersecting roadless areas and frog critical habitat removed.3

FINDING OF APPLICABILITY AND APPLICABLE CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION

Action falls under 7 CFR 1b.4 category (d)(26), trail construction, previously identified under 36 CFR 220.6(e) during scoping.3

FINDING OF NO EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES

Finds may affect but not likely to adversely affect yellow-legged frogs and gray wolf; no wilderness, roadless area or Wild and Scenic River corridor activity.3

MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS

Specialist requirements bind implementation; sensitive plant surveys of proposed trail segments were done in spring and summer of 2021, 2022 and 2023.3

Claremont Trails FANEC ELMS c287f22e-afe9-4d98-99c3-fb0d84373622 260811 AFS signed

Proposed Action

Restates the 45-mile Claremont Motorized Trails proposal by Mt. Hough Ranger District, built as Class 2 trail for several user groups.2

Applicable Categorical Exclusion(s)

Cites category USDA-26d-USFS, construction and reconstruction of trails, as the applicable exclusion.2

Finding of No Extraordinary Circumstances

Lists resources considered: listed species and critical habitat, floodplains and wetlands, special water sources such as municipal watersheds, and historic properties.2

Findings Required by Other Laws

Documents compliance with laws including the National Forest Management Act, National Historic Preservation Act, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act.2