Draft Environmental Assessment for the 2019 Hunt Plan for

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

Date: February 2019

Correspondence

This Environmental Assessment (EA) is being prepared to evaluate the effects associated with

this 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. Other applicable statutes, executive orders and regulation

compliance is addressed in the Appendix (Appendix A).

Proposed Action

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is proposing to open hunting opportunities for

upland game including pheasant, partridge, bobcat, striped skunk, and woodchuck as well as to

reopen hunting opportunities for migratory game birds including rails, snipe, dove, crow and

woodcock in the public hunting area in accordance with the Crab Orchard National Wildlife

Refuge hunt plan (Appendix B). These migratory bird species last appeared in the 1991 Code of

Federal Regulations (CFR) but have not been included since then. Thus, there was a need to

‘reopen’ the refuge to these species. In addition, the hunt plan aligns as much as possible with

existing state regulations for hunting. Areas of the refuge open to hunting remain the same at

44,219 acres, while 1,227 acres of recreational areas are staying closed to hunting.

This proposed action is often iterative and evolves over time during the process as the agency

refines its proposal and learns more from the public, tribes, and other agencies. Therefore, the

final proposed action may be different from the original. The final decision on the proposed

action will be made at the conclusion of the public comment period for the EA and the Draft

2019-2020 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations. The Service cannot open a

refuge to hunting and/or fishing until a final rule has been published in the Federal Register

formally opening the refuge to hunting.

Background

National Wildlife Refuges are guided by the mission and goals of the National Wildlife Refuge

System (NWRS). The purposes of an individual refuge as defined through establishing

legislation, Service policy, and laws and international treaties. Relevant guidance includes the

National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National

Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, Refuge Recreation Act of 1962 and selected

portions of the Code of Federal Regulations and Fish and Wildlife Service Manual.

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge (refuge) was established in 1947 by an act of Congress

(Public Law 80-361) “for the conservation of wildlife and for the development of agriculture,

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recreational, industrial, and related purposes…”. An additional purpose was acquired when

Congress designated the 4,050 acre Crab Orchard Wilderness in 1976. The establishing

legislation for the Wilderness (Public Law 94-557) states that “wilderness areas designated by

this Act shall be administered in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Wilderness

Act...”. The purposes of the Wilderness Act (Public Law 88-577) are additional purposes of that

part of the refuge that is within the Crab Orchard Wilderness. The purposes of the Wilderness

Act are to secure an enduring resource of wilderness, to protect and preserve the wilderness

character of areas within the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS) and to

administer the NWPS for the use and enjoyment of the American people in a way that will leave

these areas unimpaired for future use and enjoyment as wilderness.

Located in southern Illinois, the refuge consists of 45,446 acres, which includes the designated

Wilderness Area of 4,050 acres. The refuge provides habitat for many species of wildlife with a

focus on migratory birds. The refuge hosts an average of 850,000 recreational visits each year.

People come to boat, water-ski, swim, camp, picnic, hunt, fish, and observe wildlife among other

activities. About 1.2 million square feet of building space is currently leased by the refuge for

industrial use – chiefly the manufacture of munitions.

Hunting migratory game birds, small game, furbearers, deer and turkey is currently permitted on

the refuge. This action was authorized in the 1995 Refuge Hunt Plan, the Comprehensive

Conservation Plan (CCP, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2007) and the Compatibility

Determination completed for hunting. Recreation and public use goals were given in the

refuge’s CCP. Hunting was included with an aim for 15,630 hunters to enjoy high quality

experiences through a variety of opportunities that promote an understanding and appreciation of

natural and cultural resources and their management. The 2018 official visitor counts for

visitation associated to hunting on Crab Orchard NWR are as follows: big game hunting ~6,444

visits, waterfowl ~10,738 visits, other migratory bird hunting ~522 visits, and upland game

hunting ~3,137 visits, for a total of 20,841 hunting visits.

The refuge includes a diversity of habitats from upland forests to deep water swamps and

shallow wetlands, to agricultural and early successional fields. These areas support waterfowl,

deer, turkey, squirrels, rabbits, and other game species. All hunting activities are planned and

operated with the refuge’s primary goals and objectives as the guiding principles. The refuge is

proposing revisions and adjustments to the hunting program that would promote sustainable

wildlife populations within the refuge boundaries.

The mission of the NWRS, as outlined by the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration

Act (NWRSAA), as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act (16

U.S.C. 668dd et seq.), is to:

“... 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”

The NWRSAA mandates the Secretary of the Interior in administering the System to (16 U.S.C.

668dd(a)(4):

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● 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 agency 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 Refuge Recreation Act of 1962 (16 U.S.C. 460K) authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to

administer refuges, hatcheries, and other conservation areas for recreational use. The Refuge

Recreation Act requires, 1) that any recreational use permitted will not interfere with the primary

purpose for which the area was established; and 2) that funds are available for the development,

operation, and maintenance of the permitted forms of recreation.

Therefore, it is a priority of the Service to provide for wildlife-dependent recreation

opportunities, including hunting and fishing, when those opportunities are compatible with the

purposes for which the refuge was established and the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge

System.

Purpose and Need for the Proposed Action

The purpose of this proposed action is to provide compatible wildlife-dependent recreational

opportunities on Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge as well as to align more consistently

with existing state laws and policy. Hunting meets the refuge purpose for recreational uses and

helps with management of some species to prevent overpopulation that can impact habitats.

The need of 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))

Alternatives Considered

Alternative A: Current; plus allow expanded (new) hunting of pheasant, Hungarian

partridge, bobcat, striped skunk, and woodchuck, as well as opening hunting of rail, snipe,

dove, crow and woodcock (these migratory birds have been hunted on the Refuge since the

1950s but have not been listed in the CFR since 1991) in the public hunting area in

accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois. (Preferred Alternative)

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The refuge has prepared a hunt plan (Appendix B), which is presented in this document as the

Proposed Action Alternative. Under the Proposed Action Alternative ten additional species;

pheasant, Hungarian partridge, bobcat, striped skunks, woodchucks, rail, snipe, dove, crow, and

woodcock will be open for hunting on the refuge in designated areas. Season length and method

of take by hunter is defined in Illinois State regulations for each species. The following is a list

of proposed changes to the refuge hunting program. A more detailed description and a map of

refuge hunt units can be found in the 2019 Hunt Plan (Appendix B).

Proposed Changes

The following is a list of proposed changes to the refuge hunting program. A more detailed

description can be found in the 2019 Hunt Plan (Appendix B).

Species to be Taken – Upland Game

● Bobcat to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in concurrence with

State seasons and regulations.

● Striped skunk to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in

concurrence with State seasons and regulations.

● Woodchuck to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in concurrence

with State seasons and regulations.

● Pheasant to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in concurrence

with State seasons and regulations.

● Hungarian partridge to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in

concurrence with State seasons and regulations.

Species to be Taken –Migratory Birds

● Dove to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in concurrence with

State seasons and regulations.

● Crow to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in concurrence with

State seasons and regulations.

● Snipe to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in concurrence with

State seasons and regulations.

● Woodcock to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in concurrence

with State seasons and regulations.

● Rail to be hunted throughout the public hunting area on the refuge in concurrence with

State seasons and regulations.

Proposed Regulation Changes

These refuge specific regulations will be published in the Federal Register as part of the 2019-

2020 Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Hunting Regulations.

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(b) Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

(1) Migratory Game Bird Hunting. We allow hunting of duck, goose, coot, woodcock,

dove, rail, snipe and crow on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following

conditions:

(i) We require a signed hunt brochure. You must carry this signed brochure when

hunting on the refuge.

(ii) We prohibit hunting within 50 yards (45 meters (m)) of all designated public

use facilities, including, but not limited to, parking areas, picnic areas,

campgrounds, marinas, boat ramps, public roads, and established hiking trails

listed in the refuge trails brochure.

(iii) Hunters must remove all boats, decoys, blinds, blind materials, stands,

platforms, and other personal equipment (see §§27.93 and 27.94 of this chapter)

brought onto the refuge at the end of each day's hunt.

(iv) Waterfowl hunting blinds must be a minimum of 200 yards (180 m) apart.

Hunters must anchor boat blinds on the shore or anchor them a minimum of 200

yards (180 m) away from any shoreline.

(v) We allow the use of dogs when hunting provided the dogs are under the

immediate control of the hunter at all times.

(vi) We allow waterfowl hunting in the “controlled waterfowl hunting area”

subject to conditions described in the refuge hunting brochure.

(2) Upland Game Hunting. We allow hunting of squirrel, bobcat, woodchuck, striped

skunk, pheasant, partridge, rabbit, bobwhite quail, raccoon, opossum, red fox, gray

fox,coyote and turkey on designated areas of the refuge subject to the following

conditions:

(i) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(1)(i) through (b)(1)(iii) and (b)(1)(v)

apply.

(ii) We prohibit hunters using rifles or handguns with ammunition larger than .22

caliber rimfire, except they may use black powder firearms up to and including

.40 caliber.

(iii) For hunting, you may possess only approved nontoxic shot shells while in the

field, including shot shells used for hunting turkey (see §32.2(k)).

(iv) We require all turkey and deer hunters using the “restricted use area” (as

described in the hunting brochure) to check-in at the refuge visitor center prior to

hunting.

(v) We allow the use of .22 and .17 caliber rimfire lead ammunition for the taking

of small game and furbearers during open season.

(3) Big Game Hunting. We allow hunting of white-tailed deer on designated areas of the

refuge subject to the following conditions:

(iii) We prohibit the use of handguns for the taking of deer in the restricted use

area.

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(iv) We prohibit organized deer drives. We define a “deer drive” as an organized

or planned effort to pursue, drive, chase, or otherwise frighten or cause deer to

move in the direction of any person(s) who is part of the organized or planned

hunt and known to be waiting for the deer.

(v) We only allow archery equipment when hunting deer in the following areas:

(A) In the “controlled waterfowl hunting area”;

(B) On all refuge lands north of Illinois State Route 13; and

(C) In the area north of the Crab Orchard Lake emergency spillway and

west of Crab Orchard Lake.

(vi) The conditions set forth at paragraphs (b)(1)(i) through (b)(1)(iii) and

(b)(2)(i) through (b)(2) (iv) apply.

Additional refuge specific pubic use regulations apply to hunting that are in a separate section of

50 CFR.

(i) We restrict motorboats on all refuge waters to slow speeds leaving “no wake” within

150 feet (45 m) of any shoreline, swimming area, marina entrance, boat ramp, causeway

tunnel, and any areas indicated on the lake zoning map in the refuge fishing brochure.

(ii) We prohibit the use of boat motors of more than 10 horsepower on Devils Kitchen

and Little Grassy Lakes.

(iii) We prohibit the use of gas-powered motors in the southeastern section of Devils

Kitchen Lake (consult lake zoning map in the refuge fishing brochure).

Mitigation Measures to Avoid Conflicts

This alternative offers increased opportunities for public hunting and fulfills the Service’s

mandate under the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997. The Service has

determined that the hunt plan is compatible with the purposes of the Crab Orchard National

Wildlife Refuge and the mission of the NWRS (Appendix B).

This alternative would allow hunting of some new upland game species described in the 2019

Hunt Plan within the refuge in accordance with federal regulations, refuge specific regulations,

and the seasons and regulations set by the State of Illinois.

New hunting opportunities will potentially attract hunters currently not using the refuge, thus

affording an opportunity for the refuge to engage new segments of the public to promote natural

resources conservation, environmental education and natural resources stewardship.

Opportunities to create additional outdoor recreation experiences would be consistent with goals

and priority uses identified by the National Wildlife Refuge System. Wildlife populations for

species with rapid or sustained growth potential could be kept in check through hunter harvest.

Detrimental impacts to wildlife habitats and adjacent private lands caused by robust species

population growth could also be mitigated by providing hunting opportunities.

The Refuge Manager may establish specific regulations for individual species or portions of the

refuge depending on conflicts with other wildlife dependent recreation priorities. Permanent or

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periodic hunting closures for specific species or closures of portions of the refuge may be

necessary if the refuge manager determines that there is specific habitat, wildlife protection

and/or public safety requirements. Hunting would be conducted in accordance with all

applicable state, refuge, and federal regulations. Coordination with the public and refuge

stakeholders including the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (Illinois DNR) will promote

continuity and understanding of refuge and Service resource goals and objectives, and will help

assure that the decision-making process takes into account all interests.

Biological Conflicts

The refuge minimizes conflict related to biological resources by adopting a “wildlife first”

principle explicitly stated in the Refuge Improvement Act. Staff monitors species population

trends to ensure that target species can be hunted on the refuge without adversely affecting the

species. These monitoring activities include direct observation of populations, consultation with

state and Service species specialists, and review of current species survey information and

research.

The refuge limits or excludes hunting activities where there are biological concerns. Certain

areas of the refuge are not hunted specifically to provide areas of sanctuary for nesting and

breeding wildlife. For example, Heron Flats observation area serves as a sanctuary for migratory

waterfowl and other birds and is closed to deer hunting during the refuge managed deer hunt.

Although not proposed in this current plan, the refuge, in the future, could limit or exclude

hunting activities on additional portions of the refuge to avoid conflicts related to biological

resources, such as threatened or endangered species. Special hunts could also be used to manage

hunting pressure, provided increased opportunities, and manage overall take at appropriate

levels.

The refuge follows recovery plan guidelines for the management of federally threatened and

endangered species. The proposed alternative will not conflict with the recovery and/or

protection of these species. As part of this analysis a Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act

requiring Federal agencies to evaluate potential impacts to Threatened and Endangered species

and their habitats will be completed and included in the final EA.

Public Use Conflicts

In an effort to minimize conflicts with priority non-hunting recreational uses outlined in the

Improvement Act, and for public safety, the refuge designates areas open to hunting and enforces

refuge-specific regulations.

The boundaries of all lands owned or managed by the Service are posted with refuge boundary

signs. Areas administratively closed to hunting are clearly marked with “No Hunting Zone” or

“Area beyond This Sign Closed”. The refuge’s primary recreation areas are closed to hunting

activities. Boundaries are marked in order to ensure public safety. Overall, hunting impacts to

visitor services/recreation opportunities are considered short-term, minor and local. Past

conflicts have been minimal and we anticipate future conflicts to be about the same.

Administrative Use Conflicts

The most potential for conflict with management activities occurs in areas where habitat

treatments are conducted. Occasionally, an area open to hunting is proposed to receive a

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prescribed fire treatment. Typically, a notice of the impending treatment is posted at the unit

public access points to alert all users, including hunters. Prior to implementing the fire

treatment, the treatment unit is scouted by refuge fire staff to ensure that no one is endangered by

the treatment. Other habitat treatments such as invasive species treatment may generate a

temporary closure of an area. Notice or information about any of these closures may be posted

and available at the Refuge Office.

Alternative B – Maintain current hunting opportunities for upland game, big game, and

migratory birds as described in the 2007 CCP. New hunting opportunities for species

identified in the 2019 Hunt Plan would remain closed to hunting. [No Action Alternative]:

Under this alternative, current refuge hunting opportunities for specific upland game, big game,

and migratory bird species would continue and remain the same across those portions of the

refuge. The opportunity to hunt 10 new species on the refuge would not be allowed. The refuge

would continue to serve as habitat for fish and wildlife as well as provide outdoor recreational

opportunities for all six priority wildlife dependent public uses – hunting, fishing, wildlife

observation, photography, environmental education, and interpretation.

Opportunities to create additional outdoor recreation experiences by adding additional species

would be lost. In addition, the refuge’s ability to connect with certain segments of the public

would potentially be diminished since hunting for some popular game species would not be

permitted. Hunters would pursue these species off-refuge and thus the refuge’s ability to reach

those members of the public and promote natural resources conservation, environmental

education and natural resources stewardship may be more limited.

Conversely, the refuge will continue to provide hunting opportunities for the public, offering

reasonable opportunities for the refuge to promote natural resources conservation, environmental

education and natural resources stewardship. Under this alternative, the public would have

slightly less access to hunt certain species on public lands in the general area, and the refuge

would not be consistent with State regulations as they would not be open to all species. All other

public uses on the refuge would not change and would continue to be managed as described in

other plans.

Affected Environment

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is located in southern Illinois, primarily in Williamson

County, west of Marion and south of Herrin, on the northern edge of the Ozark foothills (Figure

1), Crab Orchard refuge is one of the largest refuges in the Midwest. Established in 1947 for

wildlife, agriculture, recreation, and industry, the 45,446 acre refuge includes three man-made

lakes totaling 8,700 surface acres. The refuge landscape also includes hardwood and pine forests,

croplands, grasslands, wetlands, rolling hills, and rugged terrain with slopes of 24 percent. The

4,050-acre Crab Orchard Wilderness, the first wilderness area designated in the State of Illinois,

is within the refuge.

Figure 1. Location of Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

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The refuge is located in the temperate deciduous forest region which occupies the northeastern

portion of North America. The region extends from the central Great Lakes region to the Gulf of

Mexico and west to the Ozark Plateau. Voigt and Mohlenbrock (1964) contend that due to the

geographic situation of southern Illinois, between the Ozarks and the Appalachians, the area

serves as a link in the North American vegetation gradient due to overlap of distinctive

vegetation patterns. The southern Illinois region may be categorized as a "vegetative melting

pot" due to combined interactions of nine different geographical sources of vegetation. The

terrestrial vegetation of the refuge is dominated by mixed hardwood upland forest (42% of the

land cover), open water lakes and ponds (20%) and agricultural land (14%).

The location of Crab Orchard refuge within the Tallgrass Prairie/Eastern deciduous forest

transition zone provides suitable habitat for a wide variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and

amphibian species. Forty-three mammal species are found within the refuge. Common mammals

include white-tailed deer, coyote, beaver, muskrat, raccoon, opossum, several species of squirrel

and cottontail rabbit. Less common species include river otter, mink, and several bat species,

including the Indiana bat.

The refuge provides habitat suitable to a wide array of migratory and resident forest, grassland,

and wetland bird species. A total of 269 resident and migratory bird species use refuge habitats

throughout each year. Kentucky warbler, Carolina wren and northern parula are among the bird

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species that regularly breed on the refuge. The refuge is important for migratory waterfowl,

shorebirds, and wading birds throughout the year.

Twenty species of amphibians and 28 species of reptiles have been recorded on the refuge.

Cricket frog, Fowler's toad, bullfrog, painted turtle, eastern box turtle, racer, and diamondback

water snake are commonly seen. At least 36 species of fish including channel catfish, white

crappie, largemouth bass and bluegill are known to occur in the lakes, ponds and streams of the

refuge.

The federally endangered Indiana bat and federally threatened Northern long-eared bat are both

known to occur on the refuge and have been documented through mist netting or stationary

acoustic monitoring. There are no known nearby hibernacula for either species. Survey efforts

between 2014 and 2017 have revealed the presence of Indiana bat maternity roosts south of

Ogden Road among dead timber in a beaver impoundment to the west of Highway 148.

A full listing of species found at the refuge can be viewed in Appendix D of the Comprehensive

Conservation Plan. The CCP can be accessed online at:

https://ecos.fws.gov/ServCat/Reference/Profile/43597. A list of scientific names of species

referenced in this document can be found in the Appendix (Appendix C).

Tables 1-6 provides additional, brief descriptions of each resource affected by the proposed

action.

Environmental Consequences of the Action

This section analyzes the environmental consequences of the action on each affected resource,

including direct and indirect effects. This EA only includes the written analyses of the

environmental consequences on a resource when the impacts on that resource could be more than

negligible and therefore considered an “affected resource”. Any resources that will not be more

than negligibly impacted by the action have been dismissed from further analyses.

Tables 1-5 provide:

1. A brief description of the affected resources in the proposed action area;

2. Impacts of the proposed action and any alternatives on those resources, including

direct and indirect effects.

Table 6 provides a brief description of the cumulative impacts of the proposed action and any

alternatives.

Impact Types:

● Direct effects are those which are caused by the action and occur at the same time and

place.

● Indirect effects are those which are caused by the action and are later in time or farther

removed in distance, but are still reasonably foreseeable.

● Cumulative impacts result from the incremental impact of the action when added to other

past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions regardless of what agency

(Federal or non-federal) or person undertakes such other actions.

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TABLE 1. AFFECTED NATURAL RESOURCES AND ANTICIPATED IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED

ACTION AND ANY ALTERNATIVES

NATURAL RESOURCES

AFFECTED RESOURCE

ANTICIPATED DIRECT AND INDIRECT IMPACTS

Bobcat

Following European settlement, bobcat

populations declined in Illinois and much of the

Midwest due to habitat loss and the fur trade

(Woolf and Hubert 1998). Bobcats were listed as

a state threatened species in 1977. After increased

sightings through the 1990’s, the species was

delisted to non-game status in 1999. Bobcat

hunting and trapping in Illinois resumed in 2016-

2017.

Nielson (2009) estimates a stable population with

high survival rates in southern Illinois. The refuge

does not perform any management practices

specifically for bobcat populations, although they

may benefit from some of the habitat management

practices and habitat restoration efforts such as

reforestation. The vast majority of the refuge

provides suitable habitat for bobcat.

Alternative A:

Estimated Hunter Use Days: 150

Estimated Take: 5

The State hunting season for bobcat in 2018-2019 is from

November 10 – February 15 with a limit of one bobcat per

person. The harvest limit is 375 bobcats. Trapping bobcat will

not be permitted on the refuge. The hunting pressure on this

species is dependent on the price of pelts in any given year.

Anticipating that prices remain what they were in 2017-2018,

opening the refuge to bobcat hunting would add an additional

18,000 acres, which would likely slightly increase the numbers

of bobcats harvested in southern Illinois, especially within

Williamson and Union Counties. It is estimated this additional

take will have negligible impact to the local bobcat population.

We can anticipate approximately 80-100 bobcats to be

harvested from southern Illinois each year. According to

population modeling by Nielson et al. (2009), a harvest of 100-

200 bobcats annually in southern Illinois would likely sustain a

slow to zero population growth while providing recreational

benefits to hunters.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is expected to

update estimates of bobcat abundance periodically and adjust

harvest goals accordingly. Therefore, the refuge will review

these regulations every five years in coordination with the state.

Alternative B:

If the refuge is not open to bobcat hunting, and pelt prices

remain similar, it can be reasonable to expect that the bobcat

harvest in the three counties that span the refuge will be similar

to what it was in 2017-2018. Under Alternative B, we can

expect a harvest of approximately 80 bobcats from southern

Illinois. This harvest rate would be likely to sustain a slow

bobcat population growth, according to population models

(Nielson 2009).

Woodchuck

The woodchuck is a forest edge species that has

been observed on the refuge though no official

population surveys have been done. Woodchucks

are not considered a species of concern in Illinois,

though very little population data exists. This

species is important ecologically as prey (Bluett et

al. 2007), and also because they can significantly

modify their environment through burrowing and

herbivory. Abandoned woodchuck burrows can

provide shelter for many other species including

opossum, river otter, skunks, and fox.

Alternative A:

Estimated Hunter Use Days:0

Estimated Take:0

The state hunting season for woodchuck in 2018-19 is from

June 1, 2018- March 31, 2019, (closed November 16-18 and

November 30-December 3 during the firearm deer season) with

no daily limit. No woodchucks were harvested on Illinois DNR

public land in the past year (Division of Wildlife Resources

2018). In addition, a 1995 survey of Illinois woodchuck hunters

stated that 98% of woodchuck hunters reported hunting on

private land near farm fields or buildings (IDNR 1995), so it

may be that woodchucks are not highly sought after for meat or

pelts, but are more likely to be hunted and trapped because they

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Woodchucks are diurnal (most active during the

day), particularly in the early morning and late

afternoon hours. They stay close to their burrows

when feeding and typically only stay above

ground a couple of hours per day. Unlike most

mammals in Illinois, woodchucks are true

hibernators. They begin hibernation in October or

November and come out of hibernation in mid- to

late February. Since they spend much of their

time underground, they avoid low-lying areas that

flood regularly. Since most of the refuge is

bottomland forest habitat, the woodchuck

population can be presumed to be quite low.

are a nuisance to private landowners. Therefore, it seems

unlikely that opening up the refuge to hunting would make any

significant impact on the local or regional population.

Alternative B:

If the refuge is not open to woodchuck hunting, it can be

reasonable to expect that the woodchuck harvest in the three

counties that span the refuge will be similar to what it was in

2017-2018. There would be no impact to local populations.

Striped Skunk

Striped skunks live in a variety of habitats, but

prefer forest edge. They are abundant on

agricultural lands. They use abandoned

woodchuck, muskrat, fox, or badger burrows, but

often rest above ground during the warmer

months. They also will use stumps, buildings, or

rock or brush piles as den sites.This species is not

a species of concern in Illinois as it is considered

to be widely distributed in a variety of habitats,

though population data is lacking. Skunks are

omnivores (eat plant and animal material). They

prefer to eat insects, particularly grasshoppers,

beetles, and crickets. They also eat grubs and

other insect larvae, and bees and wasps. When the

opportunity arises they will take mice, rats, moles,

shrews, young ground squirrels and rabbits,

nesting birds, nestlings, and bird or snake eggs.

Due to their musk, they are not a preferred food

item by most predators, but great horned owls,

coyote, badger, fox, and bobcats take them when

other food resources are scarce. Skunks help

control insect and small mammal populations.

Alternative A:

Estimated Hunter Use Days: 0

Estimated Take:0

In Illinois, striped skunks are protected as furbearers. In urban

areas, skunks may be removed if an animal removal permit is

issued by an Illinois DNR District Wildlife Biologist. The state

hunting season for striped skunk in 2018-19 is year round

(closed November 16-18, and November 30-December 3

during the firearm deer season) with no daily limit. As with the

woodchuck, it may be that striped skunks are more likely to be

hunted and trapped because they are a nuisance to private

landowners. No striped skunks were reported as harvested from

Illinois DNR-owned lands in the entire state, for 2017-2018

(Division of Wildlife Resources 2018). Therefore, it seems

unlikely that opening up the refuge to hunting striped skunks

would make any significant impact on the local or regional

population.

Alternative B:

If the refuge is not open to striped skunk hunting, it can be

reasonable to expect that the harvest in the three counties that

span the refuge will be similar to what it was in 2017-2018.

There would be no impact to the local population.

Dove (Mourning, Eurasian collared, white

winged, ringed-turtle)

The mourning dove is one of the most widely

distributed and abundant species in urban and

rural areas of North America. At this time the

responsibility to manage this species has been

delegated to the Department of Interior. The

primary management goal of the Service is to

maintain dove populations at a healthy and

productive state (Seamans 2017). In the Migratory

Bird Hunting Activity and Harvest During the

2015-16 and 2016-17 Hunting Seasons report

(August 2017), the Service estimates

approximately 837,800 dove hunters harvested

13,502,000 (±8%) mourning doves in 2016

(Raftovich, et al 2018).

Alternative A:

Estimated Hunter Use Days: 200-250

Estimated Take: 450

The Illinois state season for harvesting mourning doves in 2018

was from September 1-November 14 is confined within the

central management unit (a national management unit that

stretches from Montana to Minnesota and south to Texas). The

daily limit is 15 and the possession limit is 45. It is estimated

that less than 450 mourning doves will be harvested under

refuge hunts. Hunting would not have a significant impact on

the local, regional, or national populations because the

percentage taken would only be a fraction of the mourning

dove population in the United States, 279 million mourning

doves prior to the 2016 hunting season (Seamans 2017).

Hunting white-winged dove, Eurasian-collared and ringed turtle

doves had not specifically been analyzed for hunting on the

refuge in previous hunt plans, however state regulations allow

take of these species and an analysis is being completed in case

13

take does occur. The white-winged dove range does not extend

into Illinois and there have been no recorded sightings of these

species on the refuge. Some migrants have been sighted in

Illinois during the summer months (Engel 2015). It is estimated

that there would be no take of this species thus there would be

no impact to the local population. Eurasian-collared dove and

ringed turtle doves are introduced (non-native) species and are

not federally protected species. Studies on interactions between

Eurasian collared-doves and other species have not yet shown a

negative impact on populations of native birds, including

mourning Doves (Cornell University 2017b). Eurasian-collared

doves have been seen on the refuge, however there are no

sightings of ringed turtle doves. It is estimated that zero

Eurasian-collared and ringed turtle doves will be taken by

hunters already hunting mourning doves on the refuge. Impacts

of hunting all doves species will be negligible.

Alternative B:

If there is no dove hunting then there would be no harvest on

the refuge to add to local, regional or national harvest. Thus, no

impact to local populations.

Virginia and Sora Rail

Very few hunters attempt to harvest rails and the

population sizes and trend abundance is unknown

at a local and national level. In the Migratory Bird

Hunting Activity and Harvest During the 2016-17

and 2017-18 Hunting Seasons report , the Service

estimates that zero rail were harvested in Illinois.

However, in the entire Mississippi Flyway it was

estimated that 1200 rail hunters harvested 2,800 ±

176% in 2018 (Raftovich, et al 2018).

Alternative A:

Estimated Hunter Use Days: 10

Estimated Take: 4

The Illinois State season for harvesting rails in 2018 was from

October 21 – December 4. The daily limits is 3 and the

possession limit is 9. Although the species is heard and seen on

the refuge, very few hunters attempt to harvest these species.

The refuge estimates less than 10 hunt visits per year total for

rails. It is estimated that 4 rails will be harvested on the refuge.

Hunting would not have a significant impact on the local rail

population.

Alternative B:

Harvest numbers would not change if this species is not hunted

at the refuge and there would be no impact to the local

population.

Snipe

Very few hunters attempt to harvest snipe and the

population sizes and trend abundance is unknown

at a local and national level. In the Migratory Bird

Hunting Activity and Harvest During the 2016-17

and 2017-18 Hunting Seasons report , the Service

estimates that zero rail were harvested in Illinois.

However, in the entire Mississippi Flyway it was

estimated that 1,000 ± 181% rail hunters harvested

800 ± 195% snipe in 2018 (Raftovich, et al 2018).

Alternative A:

Estimated Hunter Use Days: 10

Estimated Take: 4

The Illinois State season for harvesting rails in 2018 was from

September 8 - December 23. The daily limits is 8 and the

possession limit is 24. Although the species is heard and seen

on the refuge, very few hunters attempt to harvest these species.

The refuge estimates less than 10 hunt visits per year total for

rails. It is estimated that 4 rails will be harvested on the refuge.

Hunting would not have a significant impact on the local snipe

population.

Alternative B:

Harvest numbers would not change if this species is not hunted

at the refuge and there would be no impact to the local

population.

American Woodcock:

The American woodcock is a popular game bird Alternative A:

Estimated Hunter Use Days: 20

14

throughout eastern North America. The

management objective of the Service is to stabilize

woodcock populations, while ultimately returning

the population to a level that occurred in the early

1970s (Kelley et al. 2008). Nationally woodcock

hunters numbered about 103,300 in 2017 and

harvested 203,500 (±17%) birds. In Illinois there

were an estimated 400 ± 142% woodcocks

harvested by approximately 100 ± 75% woodcock

hunters (Raftovich, et al 2018).

Estimated Take: 10

The Illinois State season for harvesting woodcock in 2018 was

from October 21 – December 4. The daily limits is 3 and the

possession limit is 9. Although the species is heard and seen on

the refuge, very few hunters attempt to harvest this species.

The refuge estimates less than 10 hunt visits per year total for

woodcock. It is estimated that 4 woodcock will be harvested

on the refuge. Hunting would not have a significant impact on

the local woodcock population.

Alternative B:

Harvest numbers would not change if this species is not hunted

at the refuge.There would be no impact to the local population.

American Crow

American crows are fairly common throughout the

continental United States. They do migrate,

however they are found year round in Illinois.

Surveys for crows are not completed for the

refuge, however they are present. One hundred

and seventy three crows were taken during the

2017-2018 season on all Illinois public hunting

areas (Division of Wildlife Resources 2018).

Alternative A:

Estimated Hunter Use Days:20

Estimated Take: 35

The Illinois State season for harvesting crows in 2018 was from

October 28 – February 28, 2019. There are no daily or

possession limits on crow in the state of Illinois. Although this

species is seen on the refuge, very few hunters attempt to

harvest this species. The refuge estimates less than 20 hunt

visits per year total for crow. It is estimated that 35 crow will

be harvested on the refuge. Hunting would not have a

significant impact on the local crow population.

Alternative B:

Harvest numbers would not change if this species is not hunted

at the refuge and would not have an impact on local

population..

Ring-necked pheasant

Pheasant hunting in Illinois was very popular in

the 1960’s and 70’s when 250,000 hunters

harvested over a million birds per year several

times. Due primarily to changes in land use and

farming practices, this game bird that had been

such an abundant by-product of the agricultural

landscape began a dramatic decline in the mid

1970’s. By the year 2000, pheasant hunters had

declined to 59,000 harvesting only 158,000 birds.

During the 2017-18 pheasant season, an estimated

12,575 hunters (23% increase from last year)

harvested 33,876 wild pheasant, a 128% increase (

Louis 2018a). According to the North American

Breeding Bird Survey, there have been no birds

counted on routes conducted in Southern Illinois

for several years (Sauer et al 2017).

Alternative A:

Estimated Hunter Use Days: 5

Estimated Take: 0

This alternative would open the entire refuge, except the

restricted area to hunting ring-necked pheasants. It is estimated

that only a few pheasant hunters would utilize the refuge. Since

pheasants are rarely seen on the refuge it is unlikely pheasants

will be harvested by hunters. Any take of pheasants would

likely be incidental to other hunting that is taking place. This is

a small portion of the local population near the refuge and is

expected to have negligible impacts.

Alternative B: Under this alternative pheasant hunting would not occur on the

refuge. There would be neutral impact to ring-necked pheasants

as there would be no take of this species allowed.

Hungarian partridge

These birds were introduced to North America

from Europe in the early 1900s. Hungarian

partridge is not as popular as other game birds in

the United States, however it is hunted often in its

native range in Eurasia. Global breeding

population is estimated to be 13 million. In the

midwest there has been a decline in population

Alternative A and B:

Estimated Hunter Use Days: 0

Estimated Take:0

The range of Hungarian partridge in Illinois is limited to the

northwest part of the state. There have been no recorded

Hungarian Partridge on the refuge or in the surrounding

counties. There will be no impact on this species under this

alternative or Alternative B as no take will occur in either

scenario.

15

(Cornell University 2017a).

Other Wildlife and Aquatic Species

Mammals - The refuge contains 43 known species

of mammals. Resident species include white-

tailed deer, squirrel, swamp rabbits, bobcat, and

otter. White-tailed deer, beaver, striped skunk,

woodchuck, raccoon, muskrat, mink and squirrels

are abundant. White-tailed deer and beaver can

severely impact the refuge’s ability to restore or

manage habitats. Beaver can have significant

effects on water levels which can directly impact

wetlands on the refuge. Other furbearers,

including red fox, coyote, river otter, long and

short-tailed weasels, are locally common and seen

in the area on a regular basis.

Birds – Crab Orchard refuge is especially

important for migratory birds, both during the

migrating and nesting seasons. Nearly 270

species of resident and migratory bird species use

the refuge throughout the year. Wide arrays of

other avian species use the refuge due to the

diversity of habitats within and surrounding

watershed. The diverse forests of the refuge are

well suited for providing habitat for migrating and

nesting passerines. Migration counts number in

the tens of thousands and include ducks, geese,

shorebirds, wading birds, and countless other

avian species. Some of the resident bird or year-

round species include: wild turkey, great-horned

owl, barred owl, downy woodpecker, hairy

woodpecker, pileated woodpecker, blue jay,

black-capped chickadee, white-breasted nuthatch.

The bald eagle, a recently delisted species from

the federal threatened and endangered list, is a

fairly common migrant and winter resident, along

the Ohio, Mississippi and area rivers, and eight

pairs of birds are currently nesting on the refuge.

State listed endangered species which often utilize

the refuge include Northern harrier, little blue

heron, and barn owls.

Reptiles and amphibians – Crab Orchard refuge

has recorded 20 species of amphibians and 28

species of reptiles. Cricket frog, Fowler’s toad,

bullfrog, painted turtle, eastern box turtle, racer

and diamondback water snake are commonly

observed species.

Fish - Fish surveys have been conducted on the

refuge by the Illinois DNR , the Carterville

Fisheries Office in cooperation with the Refuge

staff on a periodic basis. Sampling by various

methods has documented 61 species of fish. A

popular recreational fishery exists for largemouth

bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, white crappie,

Alternative A:

Increased hunting may have temporary, localized impacts to

populations of game and non-game species. Some individuals

and small groups of animals will be disturbed as hunters move

through occupied habitat or discharge firearms. Disturbed

animals will relocate to avoid hunters or flush and expend more

energy than if they had remained at rest. Disturbance is not a

long term threat to populations because the relocation is

temporary and food is generally not a limiting factor. Most

animals will be able to readily replace those energy reserves

they use to escape from hunters.

Overall, hunting impacts to other wildlife and their habitats and

impacts to the biological diversity of the refuge will be minor.

Alternative B:

Impacts would be similar to those described in Alternative A

based on existing hunting that already occurs on the refuge.

There would be no increased disturbance from additional

hunting use pressure to these species under Alternative B.

16

channel catfish, rainbow trout and white bass.

Threatened and Endangered Species and Other

Special Status Species

The refuge follows recovery plan guidelines for

the management of the following federally

threatened and endangered species.

Indiana Bat -The range of the endangered Indiana

bat includes most of the upper Midwestern United

States from Oklahoma, Iowa, and Wisconsin east

to Vermont and south to northwestern Florida.

The distribution of this species is greatest in cave-

rich areas where there is suitable forested habitat.

During the summer, the Indiana bat disperses over

their entire range selecting old growth bottomland

hardwood forests and riparian areas for feeding

and reproduction (USFWS 2009a). Roosting bats

and maternity colonies occur under the loose bark

of dead standing trees and also under large bark

scales on live shagbark hickory, kingnut hickory

and water hickory trees, or other trees with loose,

shaggy bark (USFWS 2008). Indiana bats have

been documented on the refuge through mist net

and acoustic surveys primarily between April and

November.

Northern long-eared bat - The Northern long-

eared bat has been listed as threatened and is

known to occur in Union and Pulaski counties.

The species has a broad range that expands from

Maine to North Carolina on the Atlantic Coast,

westward to eastern Oklahoma and north through

the Dakotas, even reaching into eastern Montana

and Wyoming. In Canada it is found from the

Atlantic Coast westward to the southern Yukon

Territory and eastern British Columbia. (USFWS

2016d). Northern long-eared bats spend winter

hibernating in caves and abandoned mines.

During summer, they roost alone or in small

colonies underneath bark or in cavities or crevices

of both live trees and snags (USFWS 2015b).

Northern long-eared bats have been documented

on the refuge through mist net surveys and

acoustic surveys.

Alternative A and B: An Endangered Species Act Section 7 consultation was

conducted and it was determined that the proposed alternative

will not conflict with the recovery and/or protection of these

species. A determination of “No Effect” was made as the

proposed project will not directly or indirectly affect (neither

negatively nor beneficially) individuals of

listed/proposed/candidate species or designated/proposed

critical habitat of such species. As hunting is already occurring

under alternative B there would also be no effect for any

federally listed threatened or endangered species or their

critical habitat (Appendix D). At this time, no impacts are

anticipated for state listed species.

Vegetation (including vegetation of special

management concern)

The terrestrial vegetation of the refuge consists of

mixed hardwood forest (23,473 acres) pine

plantations (1,633 acres), scrubland (956 acres)

grasslands (4,646 acres) and agricultural land

(4,412 acres). Forest communities dominate 60

percent of the refuge and include the following

species: post oak, pin oak, shingle oak, pignut

hickory, bitternut hickory, common persimmon,

green ash, shortleaf pine, and white oak.

Alternative A: Approximately 50% of the refuge would be

open to hunting the additional species during the specified state

seasons. Some minor effect is expected to vegetation from

trampling, because of the increased number of users and days

of use expected. Hunters are spread over a large area depending

on the species they are hunting and there is not concentrated

use that would cause excessive impact to vegetation. Impacts

will be negligible as vegetation will respond within the growing

season to accommodate disturbance.

Alternative B: Impacts to vegetation would be similar to current hunter use

17

which is minor.

Wilderness:

The Crab Orchard Wilderness Area was

established by law in 1976 and includes 4,050

acres in the extreme southern portion of the refuge

bordering the shores of Devils Kitchen and Little

Grassy lakes. The Wilderness Area is managed

under the provisions of the 1964 Wilderness Act

as a unit of the National Wilderness Preservation

System. That is, it is “an area where the earth and

its community of life are untrammeled by man,

where man himself is a visitor who does not

remain” (The Wilderness Act, September 3, 1964;

(16 U.S.C. 1121 (note), 1131-1136)). Staff carries

out no active management in the Crab Orchard

Wilderness Area, but does conduct research in the

unit. The management strategy for the wilderness

area calls for passive management with natural

succession allowed to take its course. In theory,

examples of almost all forest types on the refuge

would be preserved in this one single complex of

wilderness. White-tailed deer, small game, and

furbearer hunting currently occurs within these

boundaries, however access is limited and

generally restricted to the peripheries.

Alternative A:

There are no additional impacts to the wilderness areas

anticipated under Alternative A or B.

TABLE 2. AFFECTED VISITOR USE AND EXPERIENCE AND ANTICIPATED IMPACTS OF THE

PROPOSED ACTION AND ANY ALTERNATIVES

VISITOR USE AND EXPERIENCE

AFFECTED RESOURCE

ANTICIPATED DIRECT AND INDIRECT

IMPACTS

The refuge is open to multiple public uses, include all six of

the wildlife-dependent recreation uses; hunting and fishing,

interpretation and environmental education, wildlife

photography and observation. The refuge hosts an average

of 850,000 recreational visits each year. People come to

boat, water-ski, swim, camp, picnic, hunt, fish, and observe

wildlife among other activities.

In an effort to minimize conflicts with priority non-hunting

recreational uses outlined in the Refuge Improvement Act,

and for public safety, the refuge designates areas open to

hunting and enforces refuge-specific regulations.

The refuge has identified areas open to recreational use that

are closed to hunting in order to provide outdoor recreation

opportunities to the non-hunting public.

The boundaries of all lands owned or managed by the

Service are posted with refuge boundary signs. Areas

administratively closed to hunting are clearly marked with

Alternative A:

All other public uses on the refuge would not change

and would continue to be managed as described in

current plans. Other non-hunting recreational uses are

generally concentrated in areas such as campgrounds,

picnic areas and hiking areas and lakes away from

most hunting areas so that users are typically not

overlapping. Hours of use also vary between hunting

and non-hunting.

Overall, hunting impacts of Alternative A to visitor

services or other recreation opportunities are

considered short-term, minor and local since other

parts of the refuge are available for use by non-

hunters (other wildlife-dependent recreation users).

Impacts between hunters and non-hunters are

anticipated to be similar to the impacts between other

user groups (i.e. like that between hikers and

photographers).

Alternative B:

18

“No Hunting Zone” or “Area Beyond This Sign Closed”. Under this alternative, current refuge hunting

opportunities for specific upland game, big game and

migratory bird species would continue across the

refuge. There are currently no impacts between

hunters and non-hunters for the same reasons noted

above.

TABLE 3. AFFECTED CULTURAL RESOURCES AND ANTICIPATED IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED

ACTION AND ANY ALTERNATIVES

CULTURAL RESOURCES

AFFECTED RESOURCE

ANTICIPATED DIRECT AND INDIRECT

IMPACTS

The refuge area was the center for the Woodland Crab

Orchard Tradition, the archeological site type now flooded

by Crab Orchard Lake. Woodland people were further

influenced by the flowering of the Hopewellian and

Mississippian culture (AD 1000 to 1500), resulting in the

establishment of small agricultural communities in the

refuge area. About 1,000 acres of the refuge have been

subjected to controlled and reported archeological survey

and investigation. One hundred and thirty-six prehistoric

sites have been reported on the refuge. Euro-Americans

settlers began arriving in the early 19th century. By the

1930s farmsteads and small towns covered the refuge area.

Documents indicate at least 28 farmsteads and habitations,

34 cemeteries, three churches, 12 schools, and two towns

within the refuge boundaries. During the 1980s and 1990s

several archeological investigations occurred on the refuge

for which reports have been completed and collections are

curated at appropriate repositories. Recent studies indicate

settlement patterns in the refuge area may be more complex

than previously thought (Godfrey and Stubbs 2001).

Alternative A and B: Neither of these alternatives

will not have any impacts to cultural resources. No

buildings or structures exist on-site that are listed on

the National Register of Historic Places. Hunting is

not expected to cause ground disturbance. Any

activity that might cause an effect to a historic

property would be subject to a case-by-case Section

106 review.

TABLE 4. AFFECTED REFUGE MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS AND ANTICIPATED IMPACTS OF

THE PROPOSED ACTION AND ANY ALTERNATIVES

REFUGE MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS

AFFECTED RESOURCE

ANTICIPATED DIRECT AND INDIRECT

IMPACTS

19

Land Use:

Despite changes that have occurred over the years, the

refuge provides valuable habitat for migratory birds as well

as numerous species of resident mammals, birds, reptiles,

amphibians, and fish. The predominant land uses are

associated with refuge management actions that support the

refuge’s mission for the conservation of wildlife, and for

the development of the agricultural, recreational and

industrial purposes.

Consistent with its authorizing legislation, Crab Orchard

Refuge conducts a broad array of activities with wildlife,

recreation, agriculture and industrial management. Efforts

to balance competing demands for natural resources,

wildlife, and protection from environmental hazards are

crucial. Refuge management has made significant progress

in implementing planned activities over the years since

establishment. Refuge planning and management, however,

are a continual work in progress and evolve over time,

depending on feedback and monitoring as well as changing

values, needs, and priorities in wildlife management at the

refuge, regional, and national scale.

The refuge’s comprehensive conservation plan and

associated step down plans will provide direction for refuge

habitat management programs, visitor services activities,

agricultural management and industrial operations.

Alternative A and B:

The refuge will continue to engage in current

management activities during the hunting seasons to

ensure the refuge meets its other management

objectives. Impacts would be minimized by ensuring

hunters, cooperators, visitors and partners are aware

of each other’s activities and timed to minimize

conflict when possible. Management activities can

generally be separated by time or area from peak

hunting seasons and areas.

No impacts are anticipated under Alternative A or B

to habitat, buildings, infrastructure, traffic or

roadways. A negligible increase to traffic on local or

adjacent roadways is anticipated under Alternative A,

with no increased cost or impacts to infrastructure.

Administrative:

The costs of administering and enforcing the refuge’s

hunting program comes out of the refuge’s annual budget.

Expenses include program management, staff resources,

boundary posting, signage, brochures, parking lot

construction, facility maintenance, gate installation, and

other hunting specific activities.

Law enforcement of refuge and State hunting regulations,

trespass and other violations associated with management

of the refuge is the responsibility of three Federal Wildlife

Officers. Officers cooperate with, and are assisted by, state

and county officers as well as state conservation officers.

Ongoing coordination and communication between refuge

staff and law enforcement officers is conducted throughout

the year.

A hunting brochure that identifies refuge specific

regulations is available at the refuge office, website, and

kiosks located at all parking lots and boat ramps on the

refuge.

The refuge also uses non-law enforcement staff to manage

hunting activities. Some staff have alternate work schedules

to be available during the hunting seasons to assist hunters

and non-hunters and ensure that all refuge users understand

where to locate areas that are open to hunting. Staff that

operate the refuge’s education and visitor center routinely

Alternative A:

A minor increase in annual Law Enforcement

operation, refuge management and administration,

biological monitoring and research is anticipated

under Alternative A. This increase will be covered by

the refuge annual budget and refuge revenues.

Alternative B: No additional increase in costs for administration, law

enforcement, biological monitoring and research, or

annual maintenance is anticipated for Alternative B.

20

interact with and assist refuge users during the hunting

season.

TABLE 5. AFFECTED SOCIOECONOMICS AND ANTICIPATED IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED

ACTION AND ANY ALTERNATIVES

SOCIOECONOMICS

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT ANTICIPATED DIRECT AND

INDIRECT IMPACTS

Local and regional economies

Located west of Marion, Illinois, on the northern edge of the Ozark foothills,

Crab Orchard Refuge is one of the largest refuges in the Service’s Great

Lakes/Big Rivers Region at 45,446 acres. Crab Orchard Refuge is unique in

the NWRS in having an industrial program that generates $40 million annually

to the local economy. Additionally, the refuge is an attraction for anglers,

hunters, campers, boaters, bird watchers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Recreation results in significant expenditures for both travel-related goods and

services and activity-related equipment purchases.

Refuge hunting opportunities provide benefits to the local economy through the

sales of food, gas, supplies or lodging. According to research on economic

effects, hunting on the refuge resulted in significant expenditures (2.2 million)

for both travel-related goods and services and activity related equipment

purchases (Caudill, 2003).

Employment

In 2010, there were a total of 28,749 full- and part-time jobs in Williamson

County. Healthcare, retail trade and educational services occupations

accounted for about (43.2%) of the jobs across the area followed by food

serving and law enforcement occupations (10.4%) (2010 U.S. Census Bureau).

Income and Education

The median household income in Williamson County is $45,902, just less than

$14,000 below the state average and approximately $10,000 below the national

average (2016 U.S. Census Bureau). The percent of population below the

federal poverty line is an indicator of the economic distress within a

community. The percent below poverty in Williamson County, 14.9%, is just

higher than the national average of 14.0%.

In Williamson County, approximately 90% of residents over the age of twenty-

five were high school graduates and 22.5% have earned a bachelor’s or

advanced degree (U.S. Census Bureau, 2013.)

Alternative A: Since hunting

already occurs, we anticipate only

a slight increase in visitation and

expenditure for the additional

species proposed under

Alternative A. This will result in a

minor impact to the local

economy.

Alternative B: Hunting of current allowed species

would continue with similar

visitation and expenditures. There

would be no additional impact to

the local economy beyond

continued revenue generated from

existing opportunities.

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

Executive 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.

The Service has not identified any

potential high and adverse

environmental or human health

impacts from this proposed action

or any of the alternatives. The

Service has identified no minority

or low income communities within

21

the impact area. Minority or low

income communities will not be

disproportionately affected by any

impacts from this proposed action

or any of the alternatives.

Cumulative Impact Analysis

Cumulative impacts are defined as “the impact on the environment which results from the

incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable

future actions regardless of what agency (Federal or non-Federal) or person undertakes such

other actions” (40 CFR 1508.7).

For more information on the national cumulative impacts of the Service’s hunting and fishing

program on the National Wildlife Refuge System, see the Service’s Cumulative Impact Report

for 2018-2019.

TABLE 6. ANTICIPATED CUMULATIVE IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION AND ANY

ALTERNATIVES

Other Past, Present, and Reasonably

Foreseeable Activity Impacting Affected

Environment

Descriptions of Anticipated Cumulative

Impacts

Hunting Generally

Hunting has been allowed on Crab Orchard refuge since its

establishment in 1947. Hunting opportunities were first

printed in the 1948 Federal Register. If public use levels

expand in the future, unanticipated conflicts between user

groups may occur. Service experience has proven that time

and space zoning can be an effective tool in eliminating

conflicts between user groups. This tool is implemented at

Crab Orchard refuge by closing high visitor use areas to

hunting (Youth and Group Camps, Campgrounds and

Marinas).

Alternative A: The proposed action would have

minor impacts on the environment of other hunting

opportunities locally, regionally, or at the national

level. The Service does not believe that increasing

hunting opportunities on our land would decrease

hunting opportunities on other lands near the refuge.

Because trends of the number of hunters participating

in the sport is declining we believe providing

additional opportunities will potentially increase the

numbers of hunters that utilize public land for hunting

recreation. Private land hunting will not be impacted

by the use of public land for hunting. As of 2018 there

were 412,087 acres of state owned public lands

hunted. The refuge in comparison is 44,219 acres only

4% of the public land in Illinois that is huntable and

owned by the state. Cumulative impacts are likely

negligible but could presumably result in more

hunters participating in the sport over the long term

having positive benefits for conservation. Cumulative

impacts on species hunted are discussed separately.

Alternative B: The proposed action would have no

impacts on the environment or other hunting

opportunities locally, regionally or nationally as there

is no increased opportunity under this alternative.

Waterfowl (duck, geese, Wilson’s (common) snipe,

rail (Virginia and Sora), American coot )

Alternative A: It is estimated that no additional water

birds will be taken on an annual basis due to the

proposed increase in hunting opportunities.

22

From 2007-2017 on and average 0.74 ducks were

harvested per day in the refuge’s managed waterfowl

hunt. The refuge’s 2018 RAPP (Refuge Annual

Performance Plan), estimated that there were 10,738

waterfowl hunting visits on Crab Orchard refuge.

Using the harvest data collected from the refuge’s

managed waterfowl hunt, it is estimated that these

hunters harvested 7,956 ducks. This was 2 percent of

the total duck taken in Illinois and less than 0.16 % of

the duck taken at the Mississippi flyway level.

Hunting waterfowl on the refuge has negligible

impacts on and off the refuge for these species.

Additionally, annual waterfowl assessments are based

upon the distribution, abundance, and flight corridors

of migratory birds. An Annual Waterfowl Population

Status Report is produced each year and includes the

most current breeding population and production

information available for waterfowl in North

America. The Report is a cooperative effort by the

Service, the Canadian Wildlife Service, various state

and provincial conservation agencies, and private

conservation organizations (USFWS 2018). An

Annual Adaptive Harvest Management Report

(AHM) provides the most current data, analyses, and

decision making protocols (USFWS 2017). These

reports are intended to aid the development of

waterfowl harvest regulations in the United States for

each hunting season. The Service believes that

hunting on the refuge will not add significantly to the

cumulative impacts of migratory bird management on

local, regional, or Mississippi Flyway populations

because the percentage likely to be taken on the

refuge, though possibly additive to existing hunting

takes, would be a tiny fraction of the estimated

populations.

Alternative B: The proposed action would have no

new impacts on migratory game birds locally,

regionally or nationally as there is no increased

opportunity under this alternative. There would be no

expected cumulative impacts for similar reasons

stated above.

White-tailed Deer Alternative A: It is estimated that no additional deer

will be taken on an annual basis due to the increase of

proposed hunting opportunities. Deer harvest is

annually reviewed to mitigate long term cumulative

impacts to the white-tail deer population. Harvest

limits are set in order to have long term viability of

white-tailed deer. There will be negligible cumulative

impacts because of the adaptive management

component of this hunting practice.

Alternative B: The proposed action would have no

new impacts on big game locally, regionally or

nationally as there is no increased opportunity under

this alternative.

23

Turkey Alternative A: It is expected that the direct impacts

to the local population is negligible. Scaling this up to

a state and regional level also results in negligible

impacts. According to the Breeding Bird Survey, wild

turkey populations have grown in the long term

(1966-2008) at an average annual rate of 8.8 percent

(Flather et al. 2013). It is proposed that harvest rates

should be equal to or less than 9%, about equal to

annual growth rates (McGhee et al, 2010). At the state

level there are approximately 150,000 wild turkeys

and last year’s spring turkey harvest for the state was

approximately 13,500. This represents a harvest rate

of 9%, equal to the recommend conservative take rate.

To mitigate long term impacts bag limits are set on an

annual basis and no cumulative impacts are expected

to occur.

Alternative B: The proposed action would have no

new cumulative impacts on turkey locally, regionally

or nationally as there is no increased opportunity

under this alternative.

Upland game birds (American woodcock, Dove

(mourning, eurasian collared, white-winged, ringed-

turtle), ring-necked pheasant, bobwhite quail, American

crow)

Alternative A: Hunting of upland game birds on the

refuge will not add significantly to the cumulative

impacts on the populations of these species. The

percentage likely to be taken on the refuge would be a

small fraction of the estimated populations. The

refuge is pursuing alignment with state regulations

and will refer to Illinois DNR to monitor populations

of these species and implement any adjustments to

future harvests as needed under the existing state

regulations.

Alternative B: The proposed action would have no

new impacts on other upland game locally, regionally

or nationally as there is no increased opportunity

under this alternative.

Furbearers (squirrel (gray and fox), rabbit

(cottontail and swamp), raccoon, opossum, fox (red

and gray), coyote, bobcat, opossum, woodchuck)

Alternative A: It is estimated that very few

furbearers will be taken on an annual basis on the

refuge. This will have negligible impacts on these

populations at a regional and state level. The refuge

is pursuing alignment with state regulations and will

refer to Illinois DNR to monitor populations of these

species and implement any adjustments to future

harvests as needed under the existing state regulations

in order to mitigate cumulative impacts to these

populations.

Alternative B: The proposed action would have no

new impacts on furbearers locally, regionally or

nationally as there is no increased opportunity under

this alternative.

Resident Wildlife

Refuges conduct hunting programs within the framework

of State and Federal regulations. Population estimates of

huntable species are developed at a regional, state, flyway,

and continental scale. Hunting frameworks and take limits

Alternative A: The refuge will continue to support

substantial resident wildlife populations that will be at

or above the habitat’s carrying capacity under both

Alternatives. So, even at the local level, the refuge

only adds slightly to cumulative impacts on the

24

are set based upon these estimates. The proposed refuge

hunting program rules will be the same as, or more

restrictive than, hunting regulations throughout the State of

Illinois. By maintaining hunting regulations that are the

same as or more restrictive than the State, individual

refuges ensure that they are maintaining seasons which are

supportive of management on a more local basis. Such an

approach also provides consistency with large-scale

population status and objectives. The refuge consistently

coordinates with the State about the hunting program.

Wildlife management of populations is important to ensure

the health of the ecosystem and the refuge’s hunt program

provides minor, additional beneficial impacts to the

cumulative impacts of wildlife management in the State.

resident wildlife, and a negligible amount to regional

and statewide populations.

Alternative B: No new species would be added under

this alternative. The above information for species

that are currently hunted remains the same and no

cumulative impacts are expected because hunting is

under state harvest frameworks and there is minor

take of these species on the refuge.

Other wildlife-dependent recreation (i.e. road and trail

development and use)

Presently, about two percent of the refuge is covered by

developed lands including a vast network of roads, trails

and campgrounds that are causing some cumulative

impacts on the local area these impacts were disclosed

when the lands were developed. However, some wildlife-

dependent recreation is reliant upon those roads and trails

for access. Outdoor recreation is an important component

of the lives of most Illinoisans, nearly 56 percent indicate

that outdoor recreation is “very important” to their life,

while another 30 percent indicate that is “somewhat

important” (ILSCORP 2018). Outdoor recreation is a socio-

economic driver of the lake and forest areas of Southern

Illinois. The local community thrives on opportunities to

hunt, fish, hike, bike, and observe wildlife.

Alternative A and B: Infrastructure, trails, lake

accesses, and roads used for wildlife-dependent

recreation on the refuge and in the local area has

negatively affected the environment, to a marginal

degree, through invasive species spread, habitat

fragmentation and loss, or overall disturbance.

However, there are positive impacts of how wildlife-

dependent recreation (that is reliant upon that

infrastructure for access) is contributing to the local

economy. Wildlife dependent recreation in either

alternative is a socio- economic driver locally,

regionally, or at the state level. Future development of

trails or access to support all wildlife dependent

recreational opportunities on the refuge are not

expected to have a cumulative impact on the

environment. As projects are proposed they will go

through additional environmental review.

Development and Population Increase

Since 2010 the population has increased in Williamson and

Jackson counties by 1.8 %, while Union county county has

decreased by 3%. This population growth is minimal, but

still growth nonetheless, and will continue to place stress

upon the ecosystems of the local area. Both through direct

loss of remaining habitats, and indirectly through

fragmentation and degradation of intact remaining parcels

of wildlife habitat and demands on water. Refuge

management can do nothing to stem this trend but refuges

and other tracts of habitats will become even more

important as repositories of biodiversity. Development and

population growth are most likely to affect migratory birds

and resident wildlife. The continuing loss and

fragmentation of wetland habitat to development over time

will result in smaller numbers of duck and swans in the

lakes area.

Alternative A and B:

Because the refuge uses an adaptive management

approach for its hunt program, reviewing the hunt

program annually and revising (if necessary), the

refuge’s hunt program can be adjusted to ensure that it

does not contribute further to the cumulative impacts

of population growth and development on wildlife

and ecosystems on the refuge.

Agricultural land uses

Illinois is a leading producer of soybeans, corn and swine.

Agriculture is a part of the states major commodities and

produces more than $19 billion annually. Land that is

currently farmed in Southwestern Illinois is not converting

to developed land, however on a annual basis crop type

Alternative A and B:

The refuge will use an adaptive management

approach for its hunt program to ensure that the

refuge will only mitigate and not add to the impacts of

this decrease in agricultural land use. For example, the

refuge can adjust its season dates, bag limits, shooting

25

could vary. This variation provides resources for wildlife

but is not consistent on a year to year basis.

hours, and other options to ensure that the population

does not become over-abundant on the refuge and

lead to increased bird mortality due to the spread of

disease or crop damage.

Use of lead ammunition

Non-toxic shot is required for migratory bird hunting on all

Federal Lands, including national wildlife refuges. Crab

Orchard refuge is encouraging hunters to switch to non-

toxic ammunition use for big game hunting (white-tailed

deer). Currently, the State of Illinois requires non-lead shot

for take of waterfowl, snipe and rail. Lead shot may be

used statewide for hunting of other small game in

accordance with firearms restrictions, except on federal

lands (National Wildlife Refuges and Waterfowl

Production Areas).

Research has indicated that lead can be present in gut piles

left by deer hunters after field dressing. Bald eagles and

other raptors feed on the gut piles and may ingest the lead,

leading to poisoning.

Alternative A and B:

Crab Orchard refuge and other refuges within the

Midwest region have been educating hunters about

the risk to wildlife from lead ammunition. Refuge

staff provide information on websites, signage and

through other means to ensure hunters have relevant

information to voluntarily switch to lead ammunition.

Under these alternatives, the refuge represents a small

portion of hunting that would allow the use of lead

ammunition (deer and furbearers). The continued

allowance of toxic shot for hunting of some species is

estimated to have a negligible impact on the

cumulative impacts of lead in the environment. The

Service’s hunt program can be adjusted to ensure that

it does not contribute further to the cumulative

impacts of lead on refuge habitats or wildlife.

Climate Change

According to the 2014 Climate Change Impacts in the

United States: The Fourth National Climate Change

Assessment, the rate of warming in the Midwest has

markedly accelerated over the past few decades. Between

1900 and 2010, the average Midwest air temperature

increased by more than 1.5° F. However, between 1950 and

2010, the average temperature increased twice as quickly,

and between 1980 and 2010, it increased three times as

quickly as it did from 1900-2010 (Pryor et. al 2014).

Alternative A and B:

Under this alternative, the refuge would use an

adaptive management approach for its hunt program,

reviewing the hunt program annually and revising (if

necessary). The Service’s hunt program can be

adjusted to ensure that it does not contribute further to

the cumulative impacts of climate change on refuge

habitats or wildlife.

Monitoring

Continued annual biological monitoring of both resident and migratory wildlife and their habitats

is done on the refuge in conjunction with our State partners. In addition, the station will stay

apprised on the status of threatened and endangered species on the refuge through consultation

and local monitoring.

Summary of Analysis

The purpose of this EA is to briefly provide sufficient evidence and analysis for determining

whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or a Finding of No Significant

Impact (FONSI).

ALTERNATIVE A – PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVE

The species that are currently hunted on the refuge would continue to be allowed. The refuge

would expand to allow new hunting of pheasant, Hungarian partridge, bobcat, striped skunk,

and woodchuck, as well as open hunting of rail, snipe, dove, crow and woodcock (these

migratory birds have been hunted on the Refuge since the 1950’s but have not been listed in the

CFR’s since 1991) in the public hunting area in accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois.

26

Hunt areas remain the same as previously plans. Conflicts with other recreational uses on the

refuge are expected to be minor due to separation in time and space.

This alternative helps meet the purpose and needs of the Service as described above, because it

provides additional wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities on the refuge while also

managing wildlife populations. The Service has determined that the proposed action is

compatible with the purposes of the Crab Orchard Refuge and the mission of the NWRS. The

Compatibility Determination can be found in the Draft Hunt Plan (Appendix B).

ALTERNATIVE B – NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE

Under this alternative, current refuge hunting opportunities for specific upland game, big game,

and migratory bird species would continue and remain the same across those portions of the

refuge. The refuge would continue to serve as habitat for fish and wildlife as well as provide

outdoor recreational opportunities for all six priority wildlife dependent public uses.

Opportunities to create additional outdoor recreation experiences by adding additional species to

hunt would be lost.

List of Sources, Agencies and Persons Consulted

Illinois Department of Natural Resources

USFWS Personnel: Cypress Creek and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Staff, Maggie

O’Connell, Deb Beck

List of Preparers

Neil Vincent

Casey Bryan

Cathy Nigg

Kristin Rasmussen

State Coordination

National Wildlife Refuges, including Crab Orchard Refuge, conduct hunting programs within the

framework of state and federal regulations. All authorized hunts are at least as restrictive as the

state of Illinois. By maintaining hunting regulations that are as, or more, restrictive than the state,

individual refuges ensure that they are maintaining seasons which are supportive of management

on a local and regional basis. Refuge staff have communicated with Illinois DNR regarding hunt

plan changes and they are supportive. The Illinois DNR was formally notified of the hunt plan

and additional opportunities in January 2019. The Environmental Assessment associated with

this hunt plan and the preferred alternative discussed in that document will be reviewed by the

Illinois DNR. Refuge staff will continue to coordinate with Illinois DNR to address annual

implementation of hunting activities.

27

Public Outreach

Public input was last sought regarding adding hunting on the refuge as a recreational opportunity

as part of public outreach and open comment period during the planning stages for the Crab

Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Comprehensive Conservation Plan (2007).

28

References

Bluett et al. 2007. Distribution of Woodchucks (Marmota monax) in Illinois.

Transactions of the Illinois State Academy of Science. Volume 100, #3&4: 237-242.

Caudill, James. 2003. The Economic Effects of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife

Refuge. Division of Economics, USFWS, Arlington VA.

Cornell University. 2017a. All about Birds: Gray Partridge. Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Available from: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Gray_Partridge/ (February, 2019)

Cornell University. 2017b. All about Birds: Eurasian Collared-dove.. Cornell Lab of

Ornithology. Available from: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eurasian_Collared-

Dove/lifehistory. (February, 2019).

Cross, E. 2018. Hunters in Illinois Harvested 13,500 Turkeys during 2018 Spring Turkey Season.

Press release available from: https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/news/Documents/IDNR-

springturkey2018.pdf.

Division of Wildlife Resources. 2018. Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Illinois Public

Hunting Areas Report: 2017-2018 Wildlife Harvest.

https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Documents/IllinoisPublicHuntingAreasReport.2017.2018.p

df

Engel, J. 2015. Illinois’ First White-winged Dove Specimen. The Field Museum. Available

from: https://www.fieldmuseum.org/blog/illinois-first-white-winged-dove-specimen. (February

2019).

Flather, Curtis H.; Knowles, Michael S.; Jones, Martin F.; Schilli, Carol. 2013. Wildlife

population and harvest trends in the United States: A technical document supporting the Forest

Service 2010 RPA Assessment. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-296. Fort Collins, CO: U.S.

Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 94 p. Available

from: https://www.fs.fed.us/rm/pubs/rmrs_gtr296.pdf

(IDNR) Illinois Department of Natural Resources. 1997. Result of the 1995 Illinois

Groundhog (woodchuck) Hunter Survey. Available from:

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/bitstream/handle/2142/10366/inhsghsv01995i00000_opt.p

df?sequence=2

(IL SCORP) Illinois Department of Natural Resources. 2018. Illinois Statewide Comprehensive

Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2015-2019. Available from:

https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/pages/scorp.aspx

29

Kelley, J. R., S. Williamson and T. R. Cooper. 2008. American Woodcock conservation plan: A

summary of and recommendations for woodcock conservation in North America. Washington:

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Publications. Available from:

https://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/pdf/surveys-and-data/Population-

status/Woodcock/AmericanWoodcockStatusReport18.pdf

Louis, W. 2018a. Ring-necked Pheasant Status Report, 2018. Illinois Department of Natural

Resources, Division of Wildlife Resources. Available from:

https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/uplandgame/Documents/Pheasant%20Status%20Report%2

02018.pdf

McGhee, J.D., Berkson, J., Steffen, D.E., Norman, G.W. 2010. Density-Dependent Harvest

Modeling for the Eastern Wild Turkey. The Journal of WIldlife Management 71, 1, 196-203.

McTaggart, S. 2018. 2017-18 Illinois Fur Harvest Survey. Illinois Department of Natural

Resources, Division of Wildlife Resources. Available from:

https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/conservation/wildlife/Documents/2017-

18%20Illinois%20Fur%20Harvest%20Survey.pdf

Micetich,T and Shelton, P. 2018. Summary of 2017-2018 Illinois Deer Seasons. Forest Wildlife

Program, Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Available from:

https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/deer/Documents/IllinoisDeerHarvestReportFinal.2017.2018

.pdf

National Wildlife Refuge Improvement Act of 1997. Pub. L. No. 105–57, 111 Stat. 1252 (2007).

Nielsen, C. 2009. Modeling Bobcat Population Growth and Response to Harvest in Illinois, Final

Report. Cooperative Wildlife Research Laboratory Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Raftovich, R.V., S. C. Chandler, and K.K. Fleming. 2018. Migratory bird hunting activity and

harvest during the 2016-17 and 2017-18 hunting seasons. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Laurel,

Maryland, USA. Available from: https://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/pdf/surveys-and-

data/HarvestSurveys/MBHActivityHarvest2016-17and2017-18.pdf

Sauer, J.R. et al. 2017. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and

Analysis 1966-2015. Version 2.07.2017 USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center,

Laurel MD

Seamans, M. E. 2017. Mourning Dove Population Status, 2017. U.S. Department of the Interior,

Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Migratory Bird Management, Washington, D.C.

30

United States Census Bureau. 2019. Quickfacts tool (search by county). Available from:

https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/PST045218

(DOI) U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and U.S. Department of

Commerce, U.S. Census Bureau. 2016 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-

Associated Recreation. Available from:

https://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/subpages/nationalsurvey/nat_survey2016.pdf

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2007. Final Environmental Impact Statement Crab Orchard

National Wildlife Refuge. U.S. Dept. of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 3, Fort

Snelling, MN.

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2017. Waterfowl Population Status, 2017. U.S. Department of

the Interior, Washington, D.C. USA.

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2007. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Comprehensive

Conservation Plan. U.S. Dept. of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 3, Fort Snelling,

MN.

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2018. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge and Management

Area Refuge Annual Performance Plan. U.S. Dept. of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Region

3, Fort Snelling, MN.

Williams, B.D., L.A. Schweizer, L.K. Campbell, and C.A. Miller. 2016. 2015-2016 Illinois

Waterfowl Hunter Report: Harvest, Youth Hunts, and Season Preferences. Job Completion

Report, Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration W-112-R-25. Human Dimensions Research Program

Report HR-16-03/INHS Technical Report 2016 (54). Illinois Natural History Survey,

Champaign, IL. Available from: https://www.inhs.illinois.edu/files/8114/8536/2826/2015-

16_IWHS_Report_FINAL.pdf

Woolf, A. and G.F. Hubert. 1998. Status and management of bobcats in the United

States over three decades: 1970’s-1990’s. Wildlife Society Bulletin. 26(2): 287-293.

APPENDIX A

OTHER APPLICABLE STATUTES, EXECUTIVE ORDERS & REGULATIONS

31

STATUTES, EXECUTIVE ORDERS, AND REGULATIONS

Cultural Resources

American 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

Paleontological Resources Protection Act, 16

U.S.C. 470aaa – 470aaa-11

Native American Graves Protection and

Repatriation Act, 25 U.S.C. 3001-3013; 43

CFR Part 10

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)

This alternative will not have any impacts to cultural resources.

No buildings or structures exist on-site that are listed on the

National Register of Historic Places. Hunting is not expected to

cause ground disturbance. Any activity that might cause an

effect to a historic property would be subject to a case-by-case

Section 106 review.

Fish & Wildlife

Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, as

amended, 16 U.S.C. 668-668c, 50 CFR 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. 742

a-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

An Endangered Species Act Section 7 consultation was

conducted and it was determined that the proposed alternative

will not conflict with the recovery and/or protection of these

species. A determination of “No Effect” was made as the

proposed project will not directly or indirectly affect (neither

negatively nor beneficially) individuals of

listed/proposed/candidate species or designated/proposed

critical habitat of such species

32

Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds,

66 Fed. Reg. 3853 (2001)

Natural Resources

Clean 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

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

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

et seq.

Executive Order 13112 – Invasive Species, 64

Fed. Reg. 6183 (1999)

No additional steps were required to comply with these laws.

Water Resources

Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, 16

U.S.C.

1451 et seq.; 15 CFR Parts 923, 930, 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)

No additional steps were required to comply with these laws.

33

APPENDIX B

DRAFT CRAB ORCHARD NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE MIGRATORY BIRD,

UPLAND GAME AND BIG GAME HUNT PLAN

APPENDIX C

34

SCIENTIFIC NAME SPECIES LIST

Trees - post oak (Quercus stellata), pin oak (Quercus palustris), shingle oak (Quercus

imbricaria), pignut hickory (Carya glabra), bitternut hickory (Carya cordiformis), common

persimmon (Disopyrox virginiana), green ach (Fraxinus Americana) shortleaf pine (Pinus

echinata), white oak (Quercus alba), shagbark hickory (Carya ovata), kingnut hickory (Carya

laciniosa) and water hickory (Carya aquata)

Mammals - Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), Woodchuck (Marmota monax), Gray

squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), Fox squirrel (Sciurus niger), Beaver (Castor canadensis), Coyote

(Canis latrans), Red fox (Vulpes fulva), Gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), Raccoon

(Procyon lotor), Striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), Bobcat (Felis rufus), White-tailed deer

(Odocoileus virginianus) River otter (Lutra canadensis) Mink (Mustela vison), Muskrat

(Ondatra zibethicus), Eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) and

Northern Long-Eared Bat (Myotis septentrionalis)

Birds - Wild-Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), White-

winged dove (Zenaida asiatica), Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto), Ringed Turtle-

Dove (Streptopelia risoria), Canada goose (Branta canadensis), Ring-necked pheasant

(Phasianus colchicus), Wilson’s (Common) Snipe (Gallinago gallinago), American Woodcock

(Scolopax minor), Sora Rail (Porzana carolina), Virginia Rail (Rallus limicola), American coot

(Fulica americana), American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), Hungarian partridge (Perdix

perdix), Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), Northern harrier (Circus hudsonius), Little Blue

Heron (Egretta caerulea), Barn Owl (Tyto alba), Great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), Barred

owl (Strix varia), Downy woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens), Hairy woodpecker (Dryobates

villosus), Pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus), Blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), Black-

capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) and White-breasted nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis)

Reptiles and Amphibians - Cricket frog (Acris crepitans), Fowler’s toad (Bufo fowleri),

Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana), painted turtle (Chrysemys picta), Eastern box turtle (Terrapene

carolina), Diamondback Water Snake (Nerodia rhombifer) and Racer (Coluber constrictor)

Fish - Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), White

bass (Morone chrysops), White crappie (Pomoxis annularis), Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus),

Redear sunfish (Lepomis microlophus) and Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

APPENDIX D

INTRA-SERVICE SECTION 7 BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION FORM

35