2. Kane Canyon, Kane Canyon Spring

Land Manager: BLM, Burley Field Office/State of Idaho
Legal Location: T 14S R 26E Sections 19, 20 Cassia County
Allotment: #5003 Jim Sage

Dominant Plant Community Type: Sagebrush-Juniper

Impacts: Cumulative impacts from livestock grazing have altered the physical features of these springs and stream system. Utilization impacts have led to extensive loss of riparian species and loss of the riparian greenline. Old-growth riparian vegetation is still present at some locations, but regeneration has been seriously impacted. Trampling has led to loss of channel flow, channel widening, and loss of thermal capabilities. Down-cutting and head-cutting are occurring at different locations along the stream course. Invasive annuals are prevalent in trampled and disturbed areas. Utilization has disrupted the Kane Canyon Spring flow and has seriously degraded the water quality. Livestock were already present for the 2000 season and contributing additional impacts to these spring and stream locations.

Recommendations: It is recommended that livestock be excluded from the springs and from substantial adjacent upland areas in order to improve and restore wildlife habitat. Livestock should be withdrawn from the creek locations until substantial recovery has been achieved. Significant riparian recovery (dependent on regenerative capability) and bank stabilization would require a minimum time period of 3-6 years. Willow, aspen, and other riparian shrubs need to achieve a height of 6 feet or more before exposure to livestock utilization can be tolerated for short-duration grazing.

                    1. Utilization impacts to creek flow, loss of riparian structure.

                    2. Impacts to spring and hydric zone, loss of channel and flow.