Decision Memo Completed

Ape Cave Resource Protection

Gifford Pinchot National Forest Skamania, Washington Gifford Pinchot National Forest All Units

Project proposes to install gates on Ape Cave, listed as a Significant Cave per Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 1988, to protect the cave from resource impacts outside of normal operating hours or season, including White Nose Syndrome.

Location

Ape Cave, Trail #239, Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Project timeline

1
Scoping Start
03/13/2024
2
Comment Period
04/01/2024
3
Decision
07/2024 (Estimated)
4
Implementation
10/2024 (Estimated)

NEPA / regulatory detail

Categorical Exclusion32.2 (6), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(6)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivityDeveloped Site Management; Species Habitat Improvements; Special Area Management
Ape Cave Resource ProtectionDecision Signed Date: 07/19/2024
ForestsGifford Pinchot National Forest
DistrictsMount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
Legal Land DescriptionT 7 N, R 5 E, Section 12
Wildlife, fish, rare plantsSpecial area managementRecreation management