Decision Memo Completed

USGS Lahar Monitoring Stations

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Pierce, Washington Snoqualmie Ranger District

The U.S. Geological Survey-Cascades Volcano Observatory (USGS-CVO) has applied for a 20-year special use permit to install up to 5 new Lahar monitoring stations within the Carbon and White River drainages located to the NE of Mount Rainier volcano.

Location

1. Confluence of White R./West Fork White R. (private); 2. West Fork White R./Hazard Cr.; 3. Suntop; 4. Wrong Cr.; 5. Lonesome Lake; 6. Poch Cr.; 7. Crystal Mountain.

Project timeline

1
Scoping Start
03/08/2024
2
Decision
07/2025 (Estimated)
3
Implementation
07/2025 (Estimated)

NEPA / regulatory detail

Categorical Exclusion32.2 (3), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(3)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
U.S. Geological Survey Lahar Monitoring NetworkDecision Signed Date: 07/11/2025
ForestsMt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
DistrictsSnoqualmie Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionT17N, R7E, Sec 16; T17N, R10E, Sec 26; T18N, R9E, Sec's 6, 30, 33; T18N, R10E, Sec 18; T19N, R9E, Sec 24; W.M.
Special use management