19. McMullen Basin
Land Manager: Sawtooth National Forest
Legal Location: T 13S R 17E Section 36 Twin Falls County
Forest Division: Cassia
Dominant Plant Community Type: Shrub-Grass/Aspen-Conifer/Juniper
Impacts: Cumulative impacts from livestock utilization have heavily impacted the beaver ponds, springs, and creek at this location. Utilization has impacted the riparian understory and riparian regeneration. Trampling and utilization have disrupted the stream and spring flows, and impacted the creek channel. The riparian structure and greenline have been completely lost from sections of this drainage. Wildlife and fisheries values have been severely impacted.
Recommendations: Livestock should be permanently withdrawn from this location. The wildlife and watershed values of these beaver ponds, adjacent aspens, and riparian zone are very high. Livestock should not be allowed to utilize this type of wildlife and fish habitat. Substantial recovery of these impacted areas will require 3-6 years or more.
List of Figures:
1. Utilization impacts to beaver pond and adjacent habitat.
2. Utilization impacts to beaver pond and riparian vegetation.
