Mesa Verde National Park Spruce Tree House Alcove Arch Stabilization FONSI Signed

On February 13, 2024, the NPS issued a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for an environmental assessment (EA) for the Mesa Verde National Park Spruce Tree House Alcove Arch Stabilization. After consideration of the environmental assessment and public, tribal, and agency comments, the finding concludes that the project will not significantly affect the quality of the human environment. Therefore, preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is not required.

The NPS considered three alternatives in the EA. Alternative B, the selected alternative, and the National Park Service (NPS) preferred alternative, will stabilize the STH alcove arch and reopen the cliff dwelling for public visitation, similar to the access available before the 2015 closure. The stabilization design would remove select loose material via scaling, install rockbolts, and install several reinforced concrete supports along the face of the alcove arch. Project work and support areas include the construction site above the alcove, an established off-site material staging area, and temporary access routes.

The NPS has selected Alternative B because it best meets the project purpose to stabilize the STH alcove arch while also providing access for the public to visit Spruce Tree House cliff dwelling. The proposed action is needed to prevent substantial damage to the cliff dwelling and other park resources and to ensure staff and visitor safety.

Thank you for your interest and comments throughout the project planning process. Depending upon funding, the NPS plans to implement the action in the autumn of 2024. Although public comments are not solicited on this decision document, the FONSI may be viewed by clicking the link at the bottom of this page and the EA may be viewed from the "Documents List" link at the left of this page.

Document Content:

FONSI_MEVE_Spruce Tree House Alcove Arch Stabilization.pdf   (488.8 KB, PDF file) Disclaimer: Links within the above document(s) were valid as of the date published. Note: Some of the files may be in PDF format and can be viewed using the Adobe Acrobat Reader software. You may download a free copy of from Adobe Systems.