SENATE BILL REPORT

SJM 8000

BYSenators Halsan, Benitz, Stratton, Newhouse, Owen, Deccio and Barr

Requesting Congress review United States Forest Service designation of spotted owl habitat.

Senate Committee on Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 12, 1987

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Owen, Chairman; Barr, Conner, Craswell, McDonald, Patterson.

Senate Staff:Kaleen Cottingham (786-7415)

                  March 11, 1987

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 10, 1987

BACKGROUND:

In July 1986 the Forest Service issued a supplemental Environment Impact Statement on the consequences of the standards and guidelines for the management of northern spotted owl habitat.

The northern spotted owl is a medium-sized bird that lives in the mature and old-growth Douglas fir forests of the Pacific Northwest.  Studies indicate that the population of northern spotted owls is approximately 2,800 pairs on all lands in Washington, Oregon and northern California.  Studies also show that these owls rely on mature and old-growth forests for food, cover, nest sites and protection from predation.  It is estimated that each pair of owls utilize between 6,000 and 8,000 acres of forest land.

The federal regulations implementing the National Forest Management Act of 1976 require the Forest Service to maintain viable populations of such existing species of wildlife.  "Viable population" is defined as one which insures a well-distributed population continuing in existence.

The EIS indicates that total habitat available for the northern spotted owl will continue to decline as a result of timber harvesting.  The preferred alternative in the EIS recommends protecting options on 2,200 acres of habitat for each pair of spotted owls.

The Washington Department of Game classifies the northern spotted owl as a "threatened" species.  The USFS has identified the species as "sensitive" and thus in need of special management.

SUMMARY:

In light of the economic and social effects of setting aside forest land, this memorial requests Congress to review the designation of spotted owl habitat by the Forest Service.  Congress is asked to assure that economic and employment needs of rural communities are evaluated before any land is withdrawn from consideration for timber harvest.  This memorial asks for a balanced look at Forest Service programs.

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Senator Halsan; Senator Anderson; Jim Geisinger, NWFA; Pam Crocker-Davis, Audobon Society; Chuck Sisco, Audubon Society; Marla Marvin, Gifford Pinchot Economic Alliance; Rich Poelker, Department of Game; Jim O'Donnell, NWFA; Gene Austin, White Swan Lumber; Bob Platz, WFJ; Jack Davis, Black Hills Audubon