Trail Modification and Mound 7 Backfilling

The purpose of this project is to improve accessibility to the National Monument by bringing the trails into compliance with current Americans with Disability Act (ADA) guidelines and to protect the resources from human-caused and natural degradation. The project is needed to increase visitor access and use by improving the gravel surface and steep grades; to increase visitor opportunities by clearly defining trails and incorporating social trail segments into the official trail network; and to stabilize and protect the exposed areas at Mound 7 from deterioration while assuring that the structural outlines and significant visible features remain exposed for interpretation.

This Environmental Assessment evaluates three alternatives; a no action alternative, a trail modification and partial backfilling of Mound 7 alternative, and a trail modification and complete backfilling of Mound 7 alternative. The no action alternative is used as a baseline assessment, while the two action alternatives address modifying trails at Abo, Quarai, and Gran Quivira and backfilling, either partially or completely, Mound 7.