.....Wappapello Lake Master Plan

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SECTION I
Introduction

SECTION II
Project Description

SECTION III
Operating Projects: Status

SECTION IV
Recreational and Environmental Resources

SECTION V
Factors Influencing and Constraining Resource Development and Management

SECTION VI
Coordination and Partnering with Other Agencies

SECTION VII
Resource Use Objectives

SECTION VIII
Resource Plan

SECTION IX
Facility Load and Other Design Criteria

SECTION X
Special Problems

SECTION XI
Special Programs

SECTION XII
Operational Management Plan

SECTION XIII
Field Analysis of Cost

SECTION XIV
Conclusions and Recommendations

SECTION XV
Plates

SECTION XIV
Appendixes

SECTION VIII - RESOURCE PLAN

8.01 ZONING OF LAKE LANDS AND WATERS - LAND AND WATER USE

  1. General:


  2. Project zoning provides guidance for the orderly development, use and management of the lake's resources. Resource planning will recognize the authorized project purposes and the opportunities and constraints that influence development and management. All development will be screened to determine compatibility with the lake's natural and cultural resources. Primary planning and zoning considerations include: seasonal flooding, soils, ecological conditions, existing and projected recreation demand, state and local participation and interest, effects to adjacent land owner, such as businesses, residential and other government agencies, and applicable laws, regulations and policies.

    Recreational development has generally proceeded as described in supplements No. 1,2, 3 and 4 of the Master Plan for Wappapello Lake. All Lake area lands have been allocated for the authorized purpose for which they were acquired. The land area allocations are depicted on Plate 1 and the land area classifications are represented on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map." An analysis of the resources and use classifications of all lake lands and waters has been made. The objective of classifying lands is to provide an integration of appropriate land and water uses into a balanced plan for the wise use of all lake resources in the public interest. Description of the applicable land and water use categories follow.

  3. Land Allocation


  4. The project required public lands and water totaling approximately 44,349 acres. These lands were allocated according to the authorized purpose for which they were acquired. One allocation category exists for Wappapello Lake:

    1. Operations. This allocation includes lands acquired according to the authorizing documents for operation of the project, which is flood control.


  5. Land Classification.


  6. Land use classifications have been determined through the guidance contained in ER 1130-2-550 and EP 1130-2-550 both dated 15 November 1996, and are shown on Plate 2. Land use classifications and descriptions are as follows:

    1. Project Operations. The objective of this resource classification is to provide adequate land for safe and efficient operation and management of the lake's land and water resources for all authorized purposes. Lands classified in this category include the main dam, dike structures, gatehouse, emergency spillway, the outlet structure, waste-water treatment plant and land required for administrative and maintenance needs. Section 8-02 further details this land resource classification and use.


    2. Recreation Lands. These park and recreation lands are developed to provide for the recreational activities of the visiting public. No agricultural uses are permitted on these lands except on an interim basis where the terrain is adaptable for maintenance of open space and/or scenic values. Factors such as road access, natural resources, recreational facility design and management practices make these lands conducive to accommodating major use by the visiting public. Lands in this classification include areas for concessions, quasi-public and group use development. Section 8-03 describes the development and use of lands in this category in greater detail.


    3. Environmentally Sensitive Areas. In this classification, areas are identified for the preservation of scientific, ecological, historical, archeological and/or aesthetic value. A general description of the Ecological Areas and Cultural Areas classification are as follows.


      1. Ecological Areas. Included in this category are areas providing habitats for rare or endangered species. Limited agricultural practices are permitted in certain portions of these areas. Normally limited or no development of public use is contemplated on land in this classification. Section 8-05a further details this land resource classification and use.


      2. Cultural Areas. Included in this category are areas that have historical and archeological significance. Management practices are followed to insure protection of these resources. Section 8-05 further details this land resource classification and use.


    4. Multiple Resource Management. This classification includes three categories that further define lands based on their location and natural resources: (a) Recreation-Low Density, (b) Wildlife Management, and (c) Vegetative Management. These include lands that may be managed for one or more activities to the extent that they are compatible with the primary allocation(s).


      1. Recreation - Low Density. Lands zoned in this category offer recreation to the public in an unstructured natural setting as an alternative to the experience generally associated with intensively developed recreation areas. These areas also serve as a buffer between other land uses. Uses for these areas include hiking, walk-in hunting and fishing and nature study. Agricultural use is not permitted except on an interim basis to maintain open space, provide a supplemental food source and scenic values. Section 8-04a provides details on the development of lands in this category.


      2. Wildlife Management. Section 8-04b includes description of lands being managed for fish and wildlife habitats. These lands are continuously available for low-density recreational activities. Agricultural leases and timber harvesting are allowed to the extent practicable and compatible with other uses of the project. These activities generate revenue and maintain habitat conditions beneficial to wildlife. Sections 7-02c. and 12-06 of this plan describe the objectives and goals of Corps operated and administered fish and wildlife management areas. The OMP describes the general practices and techniques employed to implement a viable program for fish and wildlife management at Wappapello Lake. Lands on the northern end of the lake, managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, have been assigned to this land-use classification.


      3. Vegetative Management. Management activities for these lands include protection and development of forest and vegetative cover and wetland restoration. Use for these lands also includes hiking, walk-in hunting, fishing and nature study. All lands in government fee ownership are being managed to maintain forest resources for recreation, wildlife and scenic values, Section 8-04c and the OMP describe the general practices and techniques employed to conduct a program for developing the forest resources of Wappapello Lake, such as tree planting and vegetation manipulation, to support management objectives. Timber will be harvested when required to achieve other management objectives such as wildlife habitat improvement. Forest management is a secondary purpose for area zoned for recreation or low-density recreation. Specific resource use objectives and management practices are described in the OMP on an area by area basis.


8.02 PROJECT OPERATIONAL LANDS

  1. General


  2. This section and Section 8-03 include proposals for operational and recreational facilities respectively. Proposed facilities that are in addition to existing facilities are listed under the Proposed New Actions heading. A cost estimate of these facilities is provided in Section XIII and their approval is requested. Detailed information concerning funding changes are contained in paragraph 8-06.

    Facilities that are proposed for renovation, relocation or are a replacement for existing facilities are listed under the Proposed Replacement Actions heading. A cost estimate of these facilities provided in section XIII and their approval is requested.

    The following paragraphs provide a brief description on all lands classified as Project Operations. Areas are depicted on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map."

    1. OP-1 Dikes 1, 2, & 3 - Dikes 1, 2 and 3 are contained within this 11-acre area. These structures are an integral part of the flood control capacity of the main dam.


    2. OP-2. Wappapello Lake Main Dam, Office Complex, Below the Dam, Emergency Spillway and Gatehouse/Visitor Center Area. This 243 acre area contains the main dam, spillway, emergency spillway, gatehouse, Redman Creek Recreation Area/Visitor Center, Spillway Recreation Area, Below the Dam and a waste water land treatment facility. This area is necessary for the operation of Wappapello Lake as a flood control project.


      1. Wappapello Lake Main Dam - The main dam consists of a rolled earth-fill structure extended across the valley floor of the St. Francis River. The total length of the dam at its crest is 2700 feet. The crest of the Dam is at elevation 419.74 feet National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) with a maximum height above the streambed of 109 feet. Other pertinent data can be found in Table 1.


      2. Spillway - The Spillway includes the stilling basin and outlet channel with retaining walls. It is 21.5' wide as it exits the conduit and expands to 60' at the downstream end. It has two rows of baffle blocks that are 4' wide and rise 5' above the basin floor. The outlet channel expands from a width of 60' at the stilling basin to a 120' width in a distance of 300'. The channel bottom and side slopes are protected with a riprap blanket.


      3. Emergency Spillway - The emergency spillway is located to the south of the dam. This 740' long concrete spillway has a crest of 394.74 feet NGVD. When the lake exceeds this elevation an uncontrolled release is made over this spillway.


      4. Gatehouse - The gatehouse structure contains three gates 10' wide by 20 ' high for controlling the rate of discharge through the outlet structure. The gatehouse also contains a hydraulic turbine, generator and exciter that has the capability of producing 125KVA of hydro-electricity. This electric is presently being used to operate such recreational facilities as the lights on the dam, Redman Creek Recreation Area, Spillway Recreation Area, and restrooms at Redman Creek, Spillway and Visitor Center Areas.


      5. Redman Creek Recreation Area - A portion of the Redman Creek Recreation Area is classified as operational lands. Facilities within the Project Operations Area include the visitor center, three picnic shelters, play courts that include, a basketball court, two volleyball courts, a tennis court and two horseshoe pits, a playground, 14 picnic sites, three water-borne comfort stations, a three-lane boat ramp with courtesy dock and parking for the area. A description of these facilities is included in R-1 "Redman Creek Recreation Area."


      6. Spillway Recreation Area - This day use area consists of lands south of the spillway and lies entirely within the project operational lands of OP-1. Present facilities at the site include a picnic shelter, 14 picnic sites, a trail, playground equipment, a volleyball court, two horseshoe pits, a water-borne comfort station, an amphitheater, one-lane boat ramp that provides access to the St. Francis River and a small pond. The Pine Ridge Trail, a double loop trail of ½ and ¾ miles has been designated a National Recreation Trail. This trail provides a view of the Dam and the St. Francis River Valley. A site plan of this recreation area is provided on Plate 5, "Spillway Recreation Area."


      7. A 0.10 acre site within this area is leased as a commercial concession for the sale of food, refreshments, bait and tackle, and other related supplies as a service to lake visitors.

        Proposed New Actions: A disabled accessible walkway is proposed for the Spillway to allow access to the St. Francis River. Also proposed is a four-stall covered fish cleaning station with access road and eight-stall parking lot between the Pine Ridge Trail and the Project Office. These items are in accordance with the Recreation Fisheries Resources Conservation Plan. Water and sewer service is already available in the area for the fish cleaning station.

        Proposed Replacement Actions-: Remove the Peoples Creek Upper Campground picnic shelter and relocate/replace to the Spillway Recreation Area. The parking lot at the Spillway Recreation Area will be expanded by approximately 30 spaces to service this shelter. The picnic shelter will include, grill, water fountain and horseshoe pits. Four picnic sites on the ledge below the proposed shelter location and two behind the Spillway concession area will be relocated to the Redman Creek Recreation Area. A unisex comfort station will be installed behind the Spillway concession area to provide restroom service to this high use area. Water and sewer services are already available in the area. A water fountain will also be installed. This comfort station will be replaced/relocated from Peoples Creek Campground. The Spillway comfort station will be replaced and relocated to the same level as the picnic shelters to allow disabled access. The amphitheater will be relocated to the Redman Creek Recreation Area near the Visitor Center. This change in location will allow better utilization of this facility for interpretive programs at the Visitor Center and special events.

      8. Below the Dam Area - This area is located on the lands north of the spillway. Facilities include a gravel road and parking lot, a ball diamond and a vault comfort station. Dam instrumentation, piezometers and a seepage weir are also located in this area. A small wetland has been naturally developed by beavers. This three to four feet deep pond has become a popular fishing area.


      9. Proposed New Actions: This is an under utilized area that has potential for both recreation and environmental education opportunities. Access to this area will be improved. The gravel entrance road from "T" highway will be upgraded to improve the slope and width and then will be asphalted. The gate will be opened for seasonal use to provide access to the north bank of the St. Francis River at the spillway.

        A day use/special event area will be developed that will include parking lots, an overflow parking area, a large shelter (removed and replaced from Peoples Creek Day-Use Area), a playground, horseshoe pits, a volleyball court and three accessible water fountains.

        An environmental education area will also be developed. A trail/boardwalk will explore this unique ecosystem. Highlights of this trail will include a beaver created wetland complex and mature cypress/tupelo forested slough area of the old St. Francis River. Within this area, a five-acre open field will be used to demonstrate wildlife food plots and other vegetative and ecosystem management techniques.

        Proposed Replacement Actions: The vault comfort station at the ball diamond will be removed and replaced at the day use/special event area as an accessible waterborne facility. Water and sewer services are available in the area.

      10. Administration Office/Maintenance Compound - The Wappapello Lake Project Office and Maintenance Compound are located just south of the Dam. The facilities include staff offices, a visitor reception area, a lunch room, an electrical shop, a plumbing shop, a carpenter shop, open and closed storage bays, a storage building, a fenced vehicle and equipment compound, above ground fuel tanks, a storage yard, an employee and visitor parking area, a radio tower and a water well.


      11. Proposed New Actions: None anticipated at this time.

        Proposed Replacement Actions: Relocate existing storage yard which is used to store topsoil, crushed limestone and fill dirt behind existing chain link fence in the back of the maintenance yard. This will remove this aesthetically unappealing facility out of public view and will provide better security for this area. The old metal storage shed within the maintenance compound will be replaced with a more efficient structure. The new facility will match existing structures.

      12. Waste Water Land Treatment Facility - The wastewater treatment plant is located below the dam and serves the Redman Creek, Peoples Creek, Eagle Point and Spillway Recreation Areas, as well as the administration/maintenance compound. A stabilization pond and spray field treat the incoming waste from these areas. Other facilities include an operators building, a storage building, a lift station and an access road.


      13. Proposed New or Replacement Actions: None anticipated at this time.

8.03 RECREATION LANDS

  1. General


  2. A description of recreation development at Wappapello Lake is presented in this section. A total of 18 areas are classified as recreational areas. A summarization of development at these areas, both existing, proposed and replacement actions are included for each recreation area. Paragraph 8-06 provides detailed information about funding options. The following sub-paragraphs describe recreation areas in a clockwise order around the lake as shown on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map," and the individual plates as noted.

    1. R-1 Redman Creek Recreation Area. (Plate 5)


    2. This 189-acre area located south of the dam has been intensively developed for day-use and camping opportunities. This recreation area receives the most use and visitors at the project. The day use portion of the development includes a Visitor Center, three picnic shelters, play courts including a basketball court, two volleyball courts, a tennis court, two horseshoe pits, a playground, an overlook, 14 picnic sites, three water borne comfort stations, a three-lane boat ramp with courtesy loading dock, a swimming beach, vehicle and vehicle/trailer paved parking spaces, and two water wells.

      The campground portion of this area includes 109 campsites including two for park attendants. The campground is divided by "T" Highway and includes the following facilities: two shower houses, two water borne vault comfort stations, two playgrounds, two horseshoe pits, an amphitheater, fee collection booth, a trailer dump station and one water well. 104 sites have electric hookups and five sites are walk-in non-electric sites.

      Proposed New Actions:

      Day Use Area: Provide an outdoor shower and water fountain at the swimming beach. Install lights for the basketball and volleyball court utilizing hydroelectric power. Place a disabled accessible fishing pier and disabled accessible transfer area at the boat ramp in accordance with the Recreation Fisheries Resources Conservation Plan.

      The Redman Creek cove from the boat ramp south, will be buoyed as "Idle Speed" only, similar to Peoples Creek and Rockwood Point for beach, fishing pier and boat ramp safety.

      Campground: 30 sites on the east side of the campground will be upgraded to full service hook-ups that will include 50 amp electric service, and sewer and water hook-ups. 15 additional disabled accessible water fountains will be installed. The two vault restrooms and park attendant pad in the east campground and the park attendant pad in the west campground will be connected to the existing sewer system. A gray water dump area will be located on both sides of the campground. Presently, campers must leave the campground with their camping units to access the dump station to dump gray water. A new gray water dump station within the campground will allow campers to empty their portable gray water containers without moving their camping unit. Five additional campsites will be modified for disabled accessibility. Two parking spaces will be installed to the south of the west shower building. The deteriorating amphitheater will be removed.

      Replacement Actions:

      Day Use Area - The comfort station at the Redman Creek Picnic Area will be relocated and replaced with a disabled accessible facility near the picnic shelter. The water fountain and bulletin board in the island in front of the shelter will be removed and placed on the comfort station. Horseshoe pits will be installed in the island. Water fountains will be disabled accessible. The Visitor Center shelter comfort station will be modified to meet disabled accessible standards. Six picnic sites will be relocated from the Spillway Recreation Area. Four picnic sites with table and grill will be installed near the swimming beach. The other two picnic sites will be installed near the boat ramp and tennis court areas.

      Campground: The five walk-in tent sites will be removed and replaced with back-in trailer electric campsites. The parking lot for the walk-in sites will be converted into a double site and three other sites will be installed at the amphitheater area. The electric facilities to the campsites on the west side will be replaced and upgraded to current industry standards. This replacement is necessary because the existing electrical wiring has exceeded its service life and is not compatible with many of the current camping units. All water fountains will be replaced with disabled accessible facilities. Existing playgrounds on both sides of the campground will be replaced with disabled accessible facilities.

    3. R-2 Rockwood Point Recreation Area. (Plate 6)


    4. This area, approximately 220 acres, offers boat launching, swimming and marina concession facilities. These facilities are located at three separate locations, Rockwood Point, Rockwood Landing, and Barrett's Resort. Existing facilities at Rockwood Point include a two-lane boat launch ramp, a courtesy loading dock, a swimming beach with disabled accessible walkway, a vault comfort station, 5 picnic sites (approved in present Master Plan but not funded) and vehicle and vehicle/trailer paved parking spaces. This area is located at the end of State Highway RA. Rockwood Landing, located at the end of County Road 510, includes a hunting/fishing access with a one-lane boat launch ramp and vehicle/trailer parking spaces. The lower parking lot is paved and the upper parking lot is gravel. A 5.2 acre inholding is located at the north end of the Rockwood Point peninsula.

      Barrett's Resort and Marina concession is a 23-acre commercial lease with a full service marina, one lane boat ramp for concessionaires use only, and associated parking area. The marina includes gas sales, boat rentals, 172 boat rental slips, bait/tackle sales and small grocery sales. The concessionaire also provides cabin facilities and a swimming pool on adjacent private property. The developments on the public and private land compliment each other to create a resort type area.

      Proposed New Actions: Upon the availability of water from the public water supply district, a disabled accessible water fountain and an outside shower will be provided at the swimming beach. Security lighting in the beach area will be installed.

      Barrett's Resort Concessionaire is proposing a new raised parking lot to the east of the entrance road at elevation 374 feet NGVD or above. It will provide parking and access to docks at higher lake levels. The entrance road to the marina will be rerouted off the point to improve access to the facility. If future demand warrants, lessee has approval to enlarge marina by 22 boat slips.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: The vault comfort station will be removed and replaced with a comfort station closer to the beach that is a water borne vault handicapped accessible facility.

    5. R-3 Baker Lodge Recreation Area. (Plate 7)


    6. This 82-acre area is located at the southern end of the lake on Moore's Point. The area is leased to Southeast Missouri Council NO. 305 of the Boy Scouts of America for development of a Boy Scout Camp. Development at the site includes a log cabin lodge known as Baker Lodge, a water well and gravel road and parking lot. This area is closed to hunting/trapping for the safety of the camp users. Plate 7, "Baker Lodge Recreation Area" details this development.

      Proposed New or Replacement Actions: None proposed at this time.

    7. R-4 Lake Wappapello State Park. (Plate 8)


    8. A lease is issued to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Historic Preservation comprising 1,854 acres. This area features diversified developments including two separate campgrounds with 37 basic sites and 43 electric sites, two bath house/laundries, two trailer dump stations, vault comfort stations and a one-lane boat launching ramp for campers. Day-use facilities include 44 picnic sites, two picnic shelters, two water-borne comfort stations, five vault comfort stations, a two-lane boat launching ramp with courtesy dock, a one-lane boat launching ramp, a playground, an amphitheater, and a swimming beach. Eight housekeeping cabins are available for rent. In addition, the state manages 21 miles of hiking trail, 15 of which are open to backpacking, equestrian, and mountain bike usage. Support facilities include two service buildings, storage shed, two superintendent residences, one trailer pad for the concessionaire, a water well and tower and four sewage treatment facilities. One inholding, Lake Beach (4.05 acres) is located within this area. This multipurpose park is further described in Appendix 1, "Missouri Department of Natural Resources Leased Land."

      Proposed New and Replacement Actions: As furnished by the State Park Superintendent, the following actions are proposed.

      Shelter and Amenities: A public shelter near the marina area is to be replaced. Also to be addressed in the project will be upgrading picnic sites, playground, comfort station facilities and parking. Marina Access: The steep entrance and exit roads will be removed and new entrance/exit installed. Allison Point: Existing one-lane boat ramp will be replaced with a two-lane boat ramp including courtesy dock and parking. Campground Renovation: This project will upgrade existing campgrounds, to include replacement of the showerhouse in Asher Creek, construction of a connecting road between campgrounds, asphalting parking pads, adding additional electric campsites and addressing campsite slope concerns in the Ridge Campground. Contact Station: Convert existing residence at park entrance into visitor contact station. Construct new concession building at main campground entrance. Cabins: Construct four new rental cabins to include parking, utilities and furnishings. Convert cabin #8 into equestrian cabin and corral with trail to link to existing trail system. Storage Building: Construction of a new storage building for park equipment. Equestrian Camp: Construct new equestrian campground near existing equestrian parking area. Also, construct new vault comfort station. Purchase inholding from willing seller only.

    9. R-5 Chaonia Landing Recreation Area. (Plate 9)


    10. This very popular 95-acre recreation area is located at the center of the Wappapello Lake project and provides excellent access to both ends of the lake. This access is used extensively for hunting and fishing in the fall, winter, and spring months due to the close proximity of the river channel. The area includes both Corps development and a commercial concession lease. Current Corps facilities include a three-lane boat launch ramp with courtesy loading dock, a two-lane boat launching ramp with courtesy loading dock, low-flow vault toilets, some with plumbing for sinks, a water well, and vehicle and vehicle/trailer paved parking spaces. A 12-site campground is located on the Snow Creek Cove southeast of the boat ramps. These 12 sites each have a grill, table and lantern post only, but have no electric hookups. One water hydrant services this area. A spur of the Lake Wappapello State Park Backpack Trail ends at the campground.

      Twenty-four acres of the area are leased as a commercial concession development for a marina and resort. The concession area facilities include a full service marina with 142 boat slips, boat rentals, and water based gas sales. Land based facilities include a store with bait/tackle, food and grocery sales, two duplex cabins, a four unit cabin, swimming pool, gas sales, a 16-site campground with electric hookup and a storage building.

      A site plan of this area is shown on Plate 9, "Chaonia Landing Recreation Area."

      Proposed New Actions: None proposed.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: To increase the overall efficiency of this small, hard to manage and maintain area, the twelve campsites will be removed as recommended in the previous Master Plan as part of the campground consolidations. A road and parking lot will remain for bank fishing opportunities at the area.

    11. R-6 Holliday Landing Recreation Area


    12. This 72 acre site is located at the northern end of Wappapello Lake and is accessed by State Highway F and paved Corps road #30. This is a popular area for hunting and fishing. The abundance of public land in the area provides a diverse habitat for wildlife. The area includes both Corps facilities and a commercial concession lease. The current Corps facilities consist of a two-lane boat launch ramp with gravel parking lot.

      The commercial concession lease is 18.781 acres for a marina and resort. Development at the concession site includes a full service marina with 80 boat slips, boat rentals, and water based gas sales. Land based facilities include a store with bait/tackle, grocery sales, three duplex cabins, a 51-site campground with electric and water hookup at each site, a dump station, a showerhouse, a storage building, a one-lane boat ramp (for concessionaire use only), and a marina gravel parking lot and gravel storage lot.

      A Corps maintained breakwater, 150 foot long, with a top elevation of 375.0 feet NGVD protects the marina facilities from current and debris during flood conditions. A site plan of this area is shown on Plate 10, "Holliday Landing Recreation Area."

      Proposed New Actions: Install a bulletin board at boat ramp area. The concessionaire has requested an "Idle Speed Zone" be established across the lake in front of the Holliday Landing Marina. At all lake levels this is a narrow section of the lake, with boats passing within 100 feet of the marina. The wakes from these boats cause safety concerns and maintenance problems for the concessionaire. The proposed "Idle Speed Zone" would start at the breakwater and extend south to the end of the pontoon dock, making this section of the lake an "Idle Speed Zone." The Corps would partner with the lessee through a Challenge Cost-Share Agreement for maintenance of the required buoys. The lessee would provide the labor and material to maintain them in accordance with the buoy permit (if approved by the Missouri Water Patrol). This proposal will reduce the Corps operation and maintenance cost, improve safety and lower maintenance costs at the marina. The access road to concessionaire's lease is flooded by the operation of the Wappapello Lake Project. It is proposed that this road be relocated and/or raised.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: The existing gravel roadway and parking lot for the boat ramp will be asphalted. Prior to the relocation of the boat ramp outside of the lease concession area the boat ramp and parking lot were asphalt. This is a replacement of the asphalt road and parking lot at Holliday. These ground surfaces cause a dust problem at the lessee campground located adjacent to the road and parking lot. A vault comfort station and hydrant fountain were approved for this area in the Traditional Access Plan. A vault toilet will be relocated here from the People's Creek Recreation Area.

    13. R-7 34 Bridge Recreation Area. (Plate 11)


    14. This 216-acre area includes the former 138 acre Black Bridge Recreation Area, leased to MDC, and is located at the northern end of the project on the St. Francis River and has direct access from State Highway 34. This is a popular day use area that provides recreational opportunities that are not normally associated with the lake. The St. Francis River is a typical clear, gravel bottom Ozark Stream. The area, primarily used in the summer months, provides public access for canoe and boat launching, primitive camping, swimming and other related activities. A gravel bar that runs from the bridge south along the river is available for camping. Improvements to the area include an entrance road from Highway 34, a gravel parking lot and a bulletin board.

      A portion of this area is held in reserve for future development as a major resort concession as described in section 10-10 and is shown on Insert A on Plate 11.

      Proposed New Actions: None proposed at this time.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: In accordance with the approved Traditional Access plan, a vault comfort station and water fountain were to be located here. The vault toilet will be relocated from the People's Creek Recreation Area. A water fountain will be installed when the Public Water Supply District #2 installs water lines in the area.

    15. R-8 North Greenville Recreation Area, (Plate 12)


    16. Located near the city of Greenville and along the St. Francis River this 150-acre site includes four hunting/fishing accesses, and a 12-acre site leased to the City of Greenville for Park and Recreational purposes. These accesses provide opportunities for canoe and small boat launching, bank fishing, hiking and sightseeing. They also provide access to the adjacent St. Francis East Multiple Resource Management Area MR-VM-6, which it divides into two sections.

      The City of Greenville's Park and Recreational lease includes a lighted baseball/softball field, bleachers, a parking area and concession stand with restrooms and a sign that says Welcome to the City of Greenville and Wappapello Lake.

      The city of Greenville has approval for the following developments on the lease area:

      Construct a T-ball field, remove trees and brush in outfield to the light poles, Erect an outfield fence, install a scoreboard, and add more parking spaces.

      Proposed New Actions: The Traditional Access plan proposed a vault comfort station at this area. This action will not be performed due to a lower public use in the area than was anticipated. The military road will be raised and it's ditch widened.

      Propose Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

    17. R-9 Greenville Recreation Area, (Plate 13)


    18. Located one mile south of the City of Greenville, off U.S. Highway 67, this 115-acre site includes both camping and day use activities. Portions of the facilities are located within the 137-acre environmentally sensitive area; Greenville Historic Site. Situated at the northern end of the lake, this area receives intensive use throughout the year. The day use portion of the area includes a picnic shelter, 14 picnic sites, two vault comfort stations, a two-lane boat ramp with courtesy loading dock, three fountain hydrants, a volleyball court, a playground and two horseshoe pits. A one-mile historical hiking trail, called Memory Lane, follows the old sidewalks of the town of Greenville. Wayside exhibits and a gazebo tell the story of old Greenville. The area was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in March of 1990 because of its archaeological and historic significance. The Union Cemetery located within the campground is private property and also is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

      This 111-site campground has 106 sites with electric and 5 walk-in sites without electric along the shoreline. Facilities within the campground include four water-borne vault restrooms, a showerhouse, an amphitheater, a trailer dump station, a portable fee collection booth, a park attendant site, a floating courtesy dock and water well.

      Proposed New Actions: Provide walk-in access to island below the boat ramp to increase bank fishing opportunities, install a fish cleaning station in the day use area in accordance with the Recreation Fisheries Resources Conservation Plan. Place the dump station and fish cleaning station on a septic system. Install ten additional water fountains and a disabled accessible playground in the campground. Relocate the five walk-in sites and add 20 campsites to the campground in the special event area. This area will be converted to a 25-campsite loop with 50 amp service and water hook-ups and one five-car parking lot. The potential revenue increase from these campsites is estimated at $49,200; estimated pay-back period is 4-5 years. The special event area will be relocated to the day use area.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: It is proposed that electrical facilities for the park attendant and campsites 1-25 be replaced and upgraded to meet current industry requirements of 50 amp service. Fifteen water fountains and seven campsites will be modified to disabled accessible standards. The trail to the walk-in tent sites will be maintained for access to bank fishing and boat mooring. The entrance road to the recreation area floods at elevation 377.0 feet NGVD. Raise this asphalt road approximately three feet to the same elevation as the campground (379.5 feet NGVD).

    19. R-10 Sulphur Springs Recreation Area, (Plate 14)


    20. Facilities on this 296-acre area include one vault comfort station, a one-lane boat ramp, four primitive campsites (grills only) and associated parking. This area is used for sightseeing, fishing, camping and hunting and will continue to provide lake access and related services to the public. Two cemeteries are located in this area, Twidwell and Oak Grove (inholding - 1.2 acres).

      Proposed New or Replacement actions: None are proposed at his time.

    21. R-11 Poole Lodge Recreation Area


    22. This 60-acre area is leased to the Southeast Missouri Council No. 305 of the Boy Scouts of America. Access is by Wayne County Road #531 and Corps road #15. Development includes a lodge, water well, and a gravel road. The Boy Scouts use the site for group camping and related activities. This area is closed to hunting/trapping for the safety of the camp users.

      Proposed New or Replacement Actions: None proposed at this time.

    23. R-12 Lost Creek Recreation Area, (Plate 15)


    24. This 56-acre area provides access to the Lost Creek arm of Wappapello Lake. A resort concession is located within this area. The concessionaire's development is on 2.12 acres of the lease area and adjacent private property. The leased area includes eight campsites, a one-lane boat ramp (for concessionaire's use only) and a 20-stall marina. Development on the adjacent private land includes campsites and cabins.

      The major use of this area is for hunting and fishing. A one-lane boat ramp and associated parking are provided outside of the lease area.

      Proposed New or Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

    25. R-13 Camp SEMO Recreation Area, (Plate 16)


    26. This 174-acre site is managed under a lease to the Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod. The site functions as a youth camp providing recreational opportunities for organized youth groups. The site has been developed with a caretaker residence/administration building, a dining hall, two showerhouses, a picnic shelter, 6 cabins, 4 campsites, an amphitheater, a playground, play courts, a hiking trail, a group walk-in camping area, a water well and sewage treatment facilities. A beach area is approved and developed but has not been used the last few years.

      Proposed New and Replacement Actions:

      Widen camp roadway for two-way traffic. Extend existing road to develop circle drive past cabin 6 to near entrance. Proposed development to include: vault comfort station, replace cabins, replace galley, accessible swimming pool, replace showerhouse/comfort stations, extend hiking trails, make trails accessible and identify trees, and plants along the trail for interpretation purposes.

    27. R-14 Possum Creek Recreational Area, (Plate 17)


    28. This 129-acre site offers both camping and day use activities. Developments include two primitive campsites, a vault comfort station, and a one-lane boat launching ramp and associated parking. The area provides access to a popular fishing area. The area also receives a large amount of bank fishing.

      Proposed New Actions: Because of heavy utilization of this area, more parking is necessary. Enlarge the parking area by approximately 15 vehicle/trailer spaces. The two campsites (grills only) will be relocated as boat-in campsites in the Possum Creek Cove.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None proposed at this time.

    29. R-15 Camp Latonka Recreation Area, (Plate 18)


    30. This 369-acre site is the location of a group camp operated under a lease issued to the Cotton Boll Council of the Girl Scouts of America. This area is developed with 15 cabins, administration and caretaker buildings, a dining hall, 12 vault comfort stations, 2 showerhouses, 3 picnic shelters, 5 group camping areas, a swimming beach, a courtesy dock, an amphitheater, play courts, stables, a horse back riding trail, a hiking trail, two water-wells, and a sewage treatment facility. The area provides excellent outdoor recreational opportunities for youth groups and serves to orient them to the environment.

      Proposed New Actions and Replacement Actions: As furnished by the Girl Scouts, the following actions are proposed:

      Improve and extend the present horse-riding trail. Replace and relocate the present barn moving it to higher grounds for better drainage. Replace and enlarge the pasture fence. Replace deteriorating corral fence. Improve the existing hiking trails and possibly extend them adding trail markers and information stations. Install electricity to the 15 cabins. Install two commodes and a shower in the Troop House. Repair drainage problem around the old house site. Improve storm water run-off down trail going to Gypsy Dell. Construct a primitive campsite along horse trail on the point.

    31. R-16 Peoples Creek Recreation Area, (Plate 19)


    32. A popular multipurpose area with a campground and day use area is located on this 347-acre area. The 57-site campground is split into a north and south area. The north area offers 37 electric campsites, a water-borne comfort station, a showerhouse, a fee collection booth, a park attendant site, and a water well and water tower. The lake frontage below the campground has a sand area for mooring, which allows campers to keep their boats in the water. The south campground has 20 electric sites, a waterborne comfort station, a picnic shelter and water well.

      The day use area facilities include a two-lane boat ramp with courtesy loading dock, a disabled accessible fishing pier, a swimming beach, one large picnic shelter and two small picnic shelters, and two water-borne comfort stations.

      The area has one inholding, Ferry Point (11.92 acres) that is near the Camp Latonka Recreation Area, R-15.

      Proposed New Actions: New items proposed for this plan include lengthening and leveling the 20 campsites in the People's Creek South Campground and installation of 50 amp electrical service. The shelter will be removed and replaced at the spillway recreation area as an efficiency measure because of limited use at the present location. A playground will be provided in the campground near the existing showerhouse. A 5-car parking lot will be installed. A gray water dump area will be located in the campground. Presently, there is no location to dump grey water without leaving the campground. A grey water dump station within the campground will allow campers to empty their portable grey water containers. Acquire land for buffer in campground (willing seller only). Campsites are within 15 feet of the boundary line in a portion of the campground. Purchase inholding from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions:

      Day Use Area: The boat ramp comfort station will be removed and replaced at the 34 Bridge Recreation Area, leaving the comfort station at the beach area to service this area. The gate near the boat ramp will be relocated to the campground entrance to allow year round use of this comfort station. The entrance road to the area is steep and has visibility concerns when leaving the area. The entrance will be relocated to the north to improve the visibility and slope. The two small picnic shelters will be removed and replaced with a large picnic shelter at the spillway area.

      Campground: The showerhouse and comfort station are 29 and 20 years old, respectively, and are not in compliance with present accessibility standards. Based on cost associated with rehabilitating and maintaining two buildings versus cost to build and maintain one consolidated facility, it is proposed to replace the two existing facilities with an accessible unit near campsite #23. Campsite #23 will be relocated to provide needed parking for the facility. The comfort station in People's Creek North Campground will also be replaced with a new facility.

      All campsite electrical facilities will be replaced and upgraded to meet current industry standards. This replacement is necessary because the existing electrical wiring has exceeded its service life and is not compatible with many of the current camping units. Water lines and water fountains will be replaced with accessible facilities and three campsites will be modified for disabled accessibility.

      The roadway near campsite #1 will be widened to provide safe two-way traffic during times when the lower exit road is flooded.

    33. R-17 Sundowner Recreation Area, (Plate 19)


    34. This 23-acre area is a major boat launching area with a marina concession facility. Located near the dam, this access includes a two-lane boat ramp with paved parking lot for vehicles and vehicle/trailers, a vault comfort station and a breakwater. The area is often used for fishing tournaments.

      The Sundowner Marina concession is an 8.15-acre commercial lease with a full service marina. The marina includes gas sales, boat rentals, 112 boat rental slips, and bait/tackle sales. Developments on adjacent private land include small grocery sales, gas sales, above ground gas storage tanks, and a sales-service facility.

      A Corps maintained Breakwater, with a top elevation of 367.0 feet NGVD feet help protect the marina facilities from wind and wave action.

      Proposed New Actions: Action proposed by leasee include conversion of the vault comfort station to a water borne comfort station upon availability of water from the proposed public water supply district. Sewer service is available at the Dike 1 area. Because of heavy utilization and congestion at this boat ramp, the boat ramp will be widened 19.5' to provide an additional boat launching lane and area for courtesy loading dock. This extra lane and courtesy dock will allow better flow at the boat ramp during peak usage times. An accessible water fountain will be provided.

    35. R-18 Eagle Point Recreation Area, (Plate 20)


    36. This 24-acre site, located at the north abutment of the dam, provides day use facilities. Development includes a picnic shelter, 12 picnic sites, a water-borne comfort station, an overlook, a volleyball court, water well, and a paved parking lot.

      Proposed New Actions: During heavy visitation times, conflicts between pedestrians and vehicular traffic have arisen. With two entrances/exits to this area, many vehicles use this only as a through road. To eliminate user conflicts, create a safer recreation area and to allow for better control of vehicular access, the north entrance to the area will be removed. The north vehicle parking lot will be removed and a cul-de-sac will be installed. Also a playground will be provided near the volleyball court.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: The water fountain will be replaced with an accessible fountain.

8.04 MULTIPLE RESOURCES MANAGEMEMT LANDS

The following areas have been classified as Multiple Resource Management Lands with three sub categories listed below:




MR-LD -- Multiple Resource Management Area Recreation - Low Density
MR-WM -- Multiple Resource Management Area Wildlife Management
MR-VM -- Multiple Resource Management Area Vegetative Management

These areas are depicted on Plate 2 "Land Classification Map" of this plan.

  1. Recreation - Low Density


    1. MR-LD-1 Two Island MRMA


    2. This 81-acre area is comprised of two islands located in the southern portion of the main lake. The access to the area can be gained by boat only. Six primitive campsites, with grill and table, are located on the islands. These sites are very popular and also receive use for picnicking, sunbathing and sightseeing. The islands are primarily forested with oak/hickory on the ridges and bottomland species near the water. The northern most island contains a 20 acre inholding which has created management problems both for the "landowner" and the Corps. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Purchase inholding from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None are proposed

    3. MR-LD-2 Snow Creek MRMA


    4. This 778-acre area serves as a buffer zone between two developed recreation areas, Chaonia Landing and Lake Wappapello State Park. This area is primarily forested with stands of bottomland timber and oak-hickory on the ridgetops. One hunting/fishing access is located in the area. Two inholdings, Lilly Hollow (2.0 acres) and Snow Creek (1.5 acres), are within this area. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources maintains a backpack/hiking, mountain bike, and equestrian trail under a license agreement through this area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classifications Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Purchase inholdings from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None are proposed.

    5. MR-LD-3 Otter Creek MRMA


    6. This 3919-acre area provides fishing, hunting, and a variety of other day use activities, it contains five-hunting/fishing accesses. Located on the Otter Creek arm of Wappapello Lake, this area provides a mixture of fields, bottomland timber, and oak-hickory forest making it ideal for all types of hunting. One-lane boat ramps are located at the Strickland Point access and the Otter Creek access. Residential subdivisions are located directly to the south of both of these accesses on private property. In addition, the Ozark Trail, a national trail system, is routed through this area. Primitive camping is permitted within 100 feet of the trail in this area. Three inholdings, which include U.S. Forest Service (38.5 acres), Smoot Hollow (40.36 acres) near Taskee and Rucker Schoolhouse (1.75 acres) are found in this area. The Mississippi River Transmission Corporation (MRTC) pipeline dissects the eastern portion of this area in two locations. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Coordinate with MRTC and U.S. Forest Service to control vehicle access to the pipeline easement. The service road to the pipeline presently has no vehicle controls, which has resulted in numerous unauthorized off-road vehicle trails being established from the pipeline corridor. Erosion, off-road vehicle use and poaching continue to cause management and environmental concerns, which also could cause possible damage to the pipeline. Access will be controlled by fencing and gating at access points adjacent to public roadways. Purchase inholdings from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: During high water events, 364.0 feet NGVD or greater, the boat ramp and lower parking lot at the Otter Creek access becomes inundated and is unusable. Relocating this boat ramp to the higher parking lot will make the ramp usable to elevation 372.0 feet NGVD. The lower parking lot and boat ramp will be removed.

    7. MR-LD-4 Cozort Point MRMA


    8. Located within this 232 acre area is a large 126.82 acre private inholding that was developed into a recreational community subdivision. Lake access is provided by a one-lane Corps maintained public boat ramp that provides direct access to the river channel. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2 "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: The name of the area was originally misspelled. The correct spelling of Cozort will now be used instead of Cozart.

      Propose Replacement Actions: None proposed at this time.

    9. MR-LD-5 Caldwell Creek MRMA


    10. Hunting and fishing are traditional uses of this 1457-acre area. Access is provided by two hunting/fishing lots. The habitat includes various stages of bottomland succession with stands of upland forest scattered throughout the area. The hunting/fishing lot on Caldwell Creek provides bank fishing opportunities and access for small boats and canoes. The Ozark Trail traverses through the area. The Mississippi River Transmission Corporation (MRTC) pipeline bisects this area. Three inholdings which include Mine (4.1 acres), Estes Cemetery (0.9 acres) and New Liberty Church (1.05 acres) are within the area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Coordinate with MRTC and U.S. Forest Service to control vehicular access to the pipeline easement. The service road to the pipeline presently has no vehicle controls, which has resulted in numerous unauthorized off-road vehicle trails being established from this pipeline corridor. Erosion, off-road vehicle use and poaching continue to cause management and environmental concerns, which could cause possible damage to the pipeline. Access will be controlled by fencing and gating at access points adjacent to public roadways. Purchase inholding from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: Restore approximately 65 acres of wetland habitat that has been previously utilized for agricultural purposes. Three or four units will be restored, each containing 15-20 acres. One unit will be managed as a green tree reservoir impoundment.

    11. MR-LD-6 Walnut Cove MRMA


    12. Located halfway up the lake on the east side, this 1027-acre area provides seven hunting/fishing parking lots, with four of them having lake access. One-lane boat launching ramps are located at Paradise Point, Lost Creek Point, North Perkins Branch and Walnut Cove. This area provides excellent hunting and fishing opportunities. Upland forests provide quality habitat for deer, turkey and squirrels while bottomland areas offer suitable habitat for waterfowl. Three inholdings: Walnut Cove (11.352 acres), Paradise Point (18.77 acres) and Craft Subdivision (18.062 acres) are within the area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map"

      Proposed New Actions: Purchase inholdings from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: Restore approximately 10 acres of wetland habitat currently being used for other habitat management activities in the Perkins Branch area. Raise existing road through the bottomland area to facilitate as a berm for the wetland. Water control structures will be installed for water level manipulations.

    13. MR-LD-7 Lost Creek Landing MRMA


    14. This 912-acre area provides fishing, hunting and a variety of other day use activities. A portion of this area also serves as a waterfowl refuge. Portions are closed to vehicle and boat traffic during the duck hunting season to provide necessary waterfowl resting areas. The site also receives heavy public use. Located within this area are two one-lane boat launching ramps, one at Lost Creek Landing and one at Lost Creek Low Water Bridge, and a primitive camping area (3 grills only) at Lost Creek Landing. The Lost Creek Nature Trail, a one-mile loop, is part of the National Trail System and is part of the Watchable Wildlife program as a wildlife viewing area. A two-acre pond within the trail system has been stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish. A moist soil unit is located near Warner Davis access. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map". The boundary line for the waterfowl will be relocated. Portions of this refuge line are located in Lost Creek MR-VM-10. The line will be moved to the south side of Hatties Ford road and will continue east to Highway D, then south to the Corps boundary line. This will make it easier for the public to identify the refuge. The Hatties Ford road will be open to vehicular traffic during the waterfowl season. This road is on the periphery of the refuge and will provide a potential viewing area for wildlife. A gate will be installed on the Warner Davis road and a 3-car turnaround provided. This area will remain closed to vehicular traffic during the waterfowl season.

      Proposed New Actions: The name of the Warner Robins access within this area is incorrect. The name was taken from the last landowner before government acquisition, which was Warner Davis. The area will be renamed Warner Davis.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: Increase the dimensions of the existing levee at the Warner Davis moist soil unit to augment water holding capabilities. Rehabilitation of the existing levee will allow for better control of water level manipulations and moist soil plant diversity.

    15. MR-LD-8 Pisos Point MRMA


    16. This 965-acre area is located on the east side of the lake and serves as a buffer zone between Camp SEMO Recreation Area, Possum Creek Recreation Area and Camp Latonka Recreation Area. In addition, there is a residential subdivision located directly to the east of this area on private property. The site offers a one-lane boat launching ramp and parking lot. Three developed inholdings: Wilkison (0.185 acres), Lone Star Ridge (39.47 acres) and Pisos Point (4.7 acres) are located within this area. The shoreline is indented by several coves with the ridges primarily forested with oak-hickory. The area is divided into two sections by the Possum Creek Recreation Area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classifications Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Purchase inholdings from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

  2. Wildlife Management


    1. MR-WM-1 - Chollo Holly Wildlife Management Area


    2. This 1880 acre area is licensed to the Missouri Department of Conservation, as the Chollo Holly Conservation Area, for fish and wildlife management purposes. Six parking areas provide public access. The Corps of Engineers administers a preferential grazing lease within the area. A mixed bottomland hardwood forest comprises the largest habitat type in this area. Upland forest and old field habitats account for approximately 1/3 of the habitat with cropland, pasture, savanna/glades and water composing another 1/3. The major emphasis of management on Chollo Holly is to improve wildlife habitat. This is being accomplished through providing a stable food source utilizing leave crops, establishing field borders, planting cover strips to break up large fields, silvicultural treatments, and establishing permanent vegetation where needed. Habitats are manipulated mechanically, with prescribed fire and the use of approved herbicides to improve existing wildlife habitat and remove undesirable vegetation. Other management objectives are to increase diversity of forestland, implement soil conservation practices to control soil erosion and maintain water quality and to protect and enhance the habitat of any rare, threatened or endangered species. A nature trail and 3.73 miles of the Ozark Trail traverse the area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New or Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

  3. Vegetative Management


    1. MR-VM-1 - University of Missouri Forest Resource Area


    2. This 741-acre area contains a 489-acre forest resource area which has been leased by University of Missouri, School of Forestry, Fisheries and Wildlife since 29 January 1957 for a hydrometerologic research study site. The area has been used to collect data on acid rain, the effects of logging and land use practices on water quality, soil erosion, and run-off and watershed stability. Developments within the area include a gravel road network, gauging instrumentation, study structures and overhead electric line. The remaining 252 acres are predominantly forested and serve as a buffer between the lease area and Lake Wappapello State Park. Hall Hollow is used as a floating duck blind storage cove. Two 40-acre United States Forest Service inholdings are also within this area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New or Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

    3. MR-VM-2 - Asher/Bluewater Creek


    4. This 998 acre vegetative management area contains a cross section of habitat communities. The uplands are oak-hickory forests that gently slope into the bottoms of Asher and Bluewater Creeks. These bottoms are composed of fields in various stages of succession. Old field and warm season grass fields are prevalent and interspersed with wildlife buffer zones and supplemental food plots. Prescribed burning and silvicultural treatments are used to improve habitat conditions. This offers a mosaic of vegetation types to support a myriad of flora and fauna. A Corps maintained parking area and roadway provide public access to the area. A 21-acre private inholding is within the area. Horseback riding and hunting are popular uses. The Lake Wappapello State Park and the University State Forest border the area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Purchase inholdings from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

    5. MR-VM-3 - Ojibway


    6. This 1393-acre area varies from heavily forested bottomlands scattered with brushy draws to high-forested bluffs. Otter Creek is the main water source and meanders along the southern edge of this vegetative management area. Public access to the area is by service roads maintained by the U.S. Forest Service on the Mark Twain National Forest. Interior access is by walk-in only. One inholding Bethel Cemetery (3.78 acres) is located within this area. This area serves as a buffer to the Hawes Bluff Environmental Sensitive Area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Coordinate with MRTC and U.S. Forest Service to control vehicular access to the pipeline easement. The service road to the pipeline presently has no vehicle controls, which has resulted in numerous unauthorized off-road vehicle trails being established from this pipeline corridor. Erosion, off-road vehicle use and poaching continue to cause management and environmental concerns, which could cause possible damage to the pipeline. Access will be controlled by fencing and gating at access points adjacent to public roadways.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

    7. MR-VM-4 - Pleasant Valley


    8. The Ozark Trail, a trail that extends through the state and was developed in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Conservation and the United States Forest Service, traverses this 1832-acre area. Three Corps parking areas provide public access. Three cemetery inholdings including Wight (2.0 acres), Pleasant Valley (0.8 acres) and A.E. Jones (0.115 acres) are found within this area. A Civil War Veteran's Grave Memorial is also located in the area. The memorial consists of a lone pine tree, a sidewalk, bulletin boards, a flag pole, a light and a memorial plaque for an unknown soldier who died during the Civil War. These improvements were made and maintained by the local community, the Wappapello Eagles, Piedmont Eagles, Wayne County Eagles, VFW Post #3416, and the American Legion Post #281 under a special use permit. Upland forest is the predominant habitat and managed by silvicultural treatments. Bottomland sites are managed with prescribed burning, agricultural leasing and supplemental food plots. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New or Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

    9. MR-VM-5 - St. Francis West


    10. Nine Corps parking areas and a boat ramp provide public access throughout this 3120-acre area. The landscape typifies various stages of early bottomland succession associated with creek and riverine habitats. Stands of upland forest are scattered throughout the area. Agricultural leasing is a major management tool and provides a supplemental food source for various wildlife species that inhabit the area and maintains open space and scenic value. Silvicultural treatments are also used to improve habitat conditions. Prescribed burning plays a major role in succession control and warm season grass management. A ruffed grouse release occurred here in 1981. An annual drumming survey is conducted to monitor the population. The Ozark Trail, which extends through the state and was developed in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Conservation and the U.S. Forest Service, traverses the area. A state-endangered plant Clematis viorna, a leather flower, has been identified and is listed on the Missouri Natural heritage database. Five inholdings, which include Moon (3.244 acres), and four cemeteries: Meadors (0.299 acres), Hixson (0.3 acres), Old Rhubottom (0.32 acres) and New Rhubottom (0.51 acres) are also found within the area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Purchase inholdings from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

    11. MR-VM-6 - St. Francis East


    12. This 2552 acre area is very similar in habitat and topography to the St. Francis West Vegetative Management Area. Eight Corps parking areas provide public access. The landscape typifies various stages of early bottomland succession associated with creek and riverine habitats. Old field growth and warm season grass plantings are maintained with prescribed burning. Forest lands are managed with different silvicultural treatments to provide diversity. Agricultural leasing is a major management tool and provides a supplemental food source. Succession control via haying, provides habitat for various animal species that inhabit the area. The Military Road moist soil unit utilizes a St. Francis River overflow channel to trap and hold water via a retention berm and stop-log water control structure. This 11-acre unit is managed to promote desirable vegetation, invertebrate populations and amphibian habitat. The area is used extensively by waterfowl, shorebirds, mammals, and a wide array of frogs and songbirds. Five inholdings which include Bennett (.037 acres) and Hannapel (0.18 acres) cemeteries, New Prospect Church (5.84 acres), Cowshed (2.084 acres) and CoStephens (1.15 acres) are within the area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map."

      Proposed New Actions: Purchase inholdings from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: Restore approximately 30-40 acres of wetland habitat within the Military Road area currently managed for other uses. Two or three units will be created, each consisting of 10-15 acres. Increasing the dimensions of the existing levee at the Military Road moist soil unit to promote better water level management capabilities. Rehabilitation of the existing levee in conjunction with construction of the new levee system will provide quality habitat for wetland dependant species.

    13. MR-VM-7 - Laconia


    14. This 922 acre area adjoins the Johnson Tract Environmental Sensitive Area. Public access is via one Corps parking area and three Wayne County roads. The area is predominantly bottomland fields with early succession bottomland forest. The extreme northeast section of Laconia contains an oak-hickory upland forest. Holliday Creek or Reeses Creek is the major interior water source. These habitats are managed by plantings, prescribed burns and silvicultural techniques. Adjacent to the St. Francis River, is a 7-acre moist soil unit. Water levels are controlled with a stop-log structure and managed to promote desirable vegetation, invertebrate populations and amphibian habitat. Lands adjacent to the moist soil unit contain ephemeral ponds, and supplemental food plots. The area is used extensively by waterfowl, shorebirds, mammals and a wide array of frogs and songbirds. After a walk on a spur trail off the Johnson Tract Trail, an interpretive sign greets the visitor, and explains the importance of preserving and managing wetlands. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: None are proposed at this time.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: Restore approximately 40 acres of wetland habitat currently managed for other uses. The levee system will be constructed adjacent to the existing levee to provide quality habitat for wetland dependant species.

    15. MR-VM-8-Happy Hollow


    16. This 1499-acre area adjoins the Sulphur Springs recreation area and the Kime Historic Area. Six Corps parking areas provide public access. This area is comprised of several habitat types that promote a diversity of wildlife. Habitats include upland oak-hickory forests, bottomlands in various successional stages, native warm season grasses and supplemental food plot areas for wildlife. Habitat is manipulated through various activities such as prescribed burning, wildlife plantings, succession control and forestry management techniques. This area is use for hunting and fishing and provides extensive recreational opportunities. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map."

      Proposed New Actions: Coordinate with MRTC and U.S. Forest Service to control vehicular access to the pipeline easement. The service road to the pipeline presently has no vehicle controls, which has resulted in numerous unauthorized off-road vehicle trails being established from this pipeline corridor. Erosion, off-road vehicle use and poaching continue to cause management and environmental concerns, which could cause possible damage to the pipeline. Access will be controlled by fencing and gating at access points adjacent to public roadways.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None proposed at this time.

    17. MR-VM-9 - Blue Springs


    18. This 2014-acre area is heavily used for hunting and fishing. Five Corps parking areas and two one-lane boat ramps provide public access to the area. Habitat is almost equally divided between upland forest and bottomland early succession and is manipulated through prescribed burning, planting supplemental food sources, silvicultural treatments and bushhogging. On the north end of the area is Davidson's Blue Spring, which pumps out approximately 31.7 million gallons of water per day. The site is popular for fishing. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Coordinate with MRTC and U.S. Forest Service to control vehicular access to the pipeline easement. The service road to the pipeline presently has no vehicle controls, which has resulted in numerous unauthorized off-road vehicle trails being established from this pipeline corridor. Erosion, off-road vehicle use and poaching continue to cause management and environmental concerns, which could cause possible damage to the pipeline. Access will be controlled by fencing and gating at access points adjacent to public roadways.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: Restore approximately 35 acres of wetland habitat in the Center Ridge area currently utilized for other management practices.

    19. MR-VM-10 - Lost Creek


    20. Portions of this 2707-acre area serve as the Lost Creek Waterfowl Refuge. Portions of the area are closed to vehicles, boat traffic and firearms hunting during the waterfowl season. Walk-in access and bow hunting are allowed. Seven Corps parking areas and several Wayne County roads provide public access to this heavily used area. Three inholdings, which include Lost Creek (179.32 acres), Taner (40 acres) and Shiloh Cemetery (1.84 acres,) are within the boundaries of this area. Jones Cemetery is also in this area and is maintained under a volunteer agreement with the Jones Cemetery Group. The East and West Forks of Lost Creek, Hickory Flats Creek and Little Creek are the interior water sources. Habitat is manipulated through prescribed burning, silvicultural treatments, planting supplemental food sources and bushhogging. The area serves as a buffer for the Deep Muck Fens Environmental Sensitive Area. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Purchase inholdings from willing sellers only. The boundary line for the waterfowl refuge will be relocated. Portions of this refuge line are located in Lost Creek Landing MRMA (MR-LD-7). The line will be moved to the south side of Hatties Ford road and will continue east to Highway D, then south to the Corps boundary line. This will make it easier for the public to identify the refuge. The Hatties Ford road will be open to vehicular traffic during the waterfowl season. This road is on the periphery of the refuge and will provide a potential viewing area for wildlife.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

8.05 ENVIRONMANTAL SENSITIVE LANDS

The following areas have been classified as Environmental Sensitive Lands with two sub categories listed below:

ES-E -- Environmental Sensitive Area - Ecological

ES-C -- Environmental Sensitive Area - Cultural

These areas are depicted on Plate 2 of this plan.

  1. Ecological


    1. ES-E-1 - Hawes Bluff


    2. This 63-acre area has been identified because of its unique high limestone bluffs that are relatively unusual for this physiographic region. No roads or other development exist on the area. Access is best achieved by boat, which contributes to the areas limited human impacts. The state-endangered Little Leaved Alum Root, Heuchera parviflora var. parviflora, was last observed in 1981 and is listed in the Missouri Natural Heritage Database. An updated floral and faunal inventory will be conducted to determine its continued existence and the presence of any other rare, threatened or endangered species. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Correct all previous references to Hall's Bluff to the proper spelling of Hawes Bluff.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

    3. ES-E-2 - Johnson Tract


    4. This 1485 acre area features rugged hills cut by deep valleys. The majority of the area is covered with mature mixed hardwood and pine forests. A remnant dolomite glade exists on the topographical feature known as Cedar Bluff and is being restored to pre-settlement conditions through prescribed burning. This interesting and biologically diverse area supports 602 taxa of vascular plants. A five-mile loop backpack trail with two primitive campsites, provides interior access. Two Corps maintained parking areas provide public access. The area contains a private inholding (Jones 9.5 acres). The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Open the five-mile backpack trail to horseback riding. The north parking lot at the end of county road #536 will be enlarged for horse trailer parking. Horseback riding will be limited to the existing trail only. A spur trail to the dolomite glade and other loops will be installed. The Cedar Bluff glade will be burned every 3 years and large cedars cut out. Purchase inholding from willing sellers only.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None are proposed at this time.

    5. ES-E-3 - Deep Muck Fens


    6. This 132 acre area contains the Hatties Ford Fens. These fens are one of only eight deep muck fen complexes in Missouri. Fens are wetlands supplied with a constant source of minerotrophic phreatic water. These deep muck fens are characterized by organic soils with a component of mucky sedge peat, with soil depths typically exceeding 40 inches. Vegetative sampling and inventory work conducted by The Nature Conservancy documented that the Hatties Ford Fen system is markedly different in vegetational composition from other deep muck fens and represents a unique expression of this natural community. The Hatties Ford fens harbor several state rare or endangered species including the four-toed salamander, Canada Rush and Loesel's Twayblade Orchid. A 1994 invertebrate census turned up the rare toothpick grasshopper. This species is restricted to undisturbed high-quality natural areas and their presence is an indicator of the fens' overall health. In 1995, the St. Louis District entered into a MOU with The Nature Conservancy for the purposes of carrying out assessment and management activities on Corps of Engineers land in Missouri. As a result, a management plan was written in 1996 to safeguard this unique wetland system. The goals of the plan are to maintain and enhance the biodiversity of the fen system, maintain the integrity of the hydrological cycle, decrease cattail, (Typha lattifolia) populations and maintain the size and vigor of the Canada Rush and Loesel's Twayblade Orchid. These goals are and will be accomplished through water quality monitoring, photomonitoring, prescribed burning and future inventories of flora and fauna to determine their response to the management. Public awareness for this community will be accomplished through brochures, interpretive signs and incorporation into the Watchable Wildlife Program. Future work may include a self-guided trail. The Hatties Ford Fens are designated as a Nature Conservancy Natural Area Registry site. They will also be nominated for inclusion as a Missouri Natural Area. A Corps maintained road and parking area provides public access. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New Actions: Construct a self-guided trail and brochure to interpret this unique area.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: None proposed at this time.

  2. Cultural


    1. ES-C-1 - Chaonia Historic Area


    2. This 110 acre is set aside to recognize the community which thrived here prior to the development of Wappapello Lake. The area was the site of a logging community during the 1800's. Foundations, sidewalks, a ferry landing point and remains of iron ore smelters can still be found in the area. The site will be evaluated as part of a comprehensive cultural resource survey to determine its eligibility for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places and protection as required by law. Public awareness and interpretation of the site through brochures may be accomplished in the future. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New and Replacement Actions: None proposed at this time.

    3. ES-C-2 - Taskee Historic Area


    4. This 120 acre area is set aside because of its significance as a railroad center during the 1800's. It is the site of the first known railroad station within the Project area and served as a center for commerce. Several foundations can still be located within the area. The site will be evaluated as part of a comprehensive cultural resource survey to determine its eligibility for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places and protected as required by law. Public awareness and interpretation of the site through brochures may be accomplished in the future. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New and Replacement Actions: None proposed at this time.

    5. ES-C-3 - Greenville Historic Area


    6. This 137 acre area is set aside because of its archaeological and historical significance. The old town of Greenville and three private cemeteries were placed on the National Register of Historic Places in March of 1990 and are protected as required by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Two of the cemeteries are inholdings (Union and Wight) with the third being adjacent to public land (Hickman). The site is located within the Greenville Recreation Area. In cooperation with the Wayne County Historical Society, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers developed and maintains a walking trail, known as Memory Lane, through the remaining sidewalks and foundations of the old town. Interpretive markers depicting each site allow visitors to go back in time to see the town as it was during its height of prosperity. A gazebo is also in place and traces the history of the town's development and the important role it played as the county seat of Wayne County. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map."

      Proposed New Actions: As discussed in section 8-03 I, R-9 Greenville Recreation Area, the following items are also located within ES-C-3 Greenville Historic Area. Install a fish cleaning station in the day use area in accordance with the Recreation Fisheries Resources Conservation Plan. Place the dump station and fish cleaning station on a septic system. Install three additional water fountains in the campground. Relocate the five walk-in sites and twelve sites from Chaonia Landing and 20 sites from Peoples Creek Upper to the campground special event area. This area will be converted to 37-campsite loop with 50 amp service and water hook-ups. The special event area will be relocated to the day use area.

      Proposed Replacement Actions: As discussed in section 8-03, i. R-9 Greenville Recreation Area, the following items are also located within ES-C-3, Greenville Historic Area. It is proposed that electrical facilities for the park attendant and campsites 1-25 be replaced and upgraded to meet current industry requirements of 50 amp service. Three water fountains and one campsite will be modified to disabled accessible standards. The entrance road to the recreation area floods at elevation 377.0 feet NGVD. Raise this asphalt road approximately two-three feet to the same elevation as the campground (379.5 feet NGVD).

    7. ES-C-4 - Kime Historic Area


    8. This 175-acre site is set aside to recognize its significance as a community center dating back to the turn of the century. Several foundations from homes and businesses can still be seen in the area. Kirkpatrick Cemetery (1.04 acres) inholding is nearby and contains graves dating back to the 1800's. The site will be evaluated as part of a comprehensive cultural resource survey to determine its eligibility for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places and protected as required by law. Public awareness and interpretation of the site through brochures may be accomplished in the future. The location of this area is indexed on Plate 2, "Land Classification Map".

      Proposed New and Replacement Actions: None proposed at this time.

8.06 IMPLEMENTATION

  1. Introduction


  2. The means of accomplishing a development program is equally as important as the plan itself. Current national priorities limit development and renovation options more than in the past. At the same time, recreation visitation to Wappapello Lake is no longer increasing at the annual rate of the 1960's, 1970's and 1980's. Nevertheless, a need exists for the proposals contained in this Master Plan; and this need is expected to become greater in the future. It should also be recognized that changing priorities could drastically affect the manner and schedule for Master Plan implementation. This plan will have continuing utility despite any changing priorities that may affect its implementation.

  3. Implementation Methods


  4. There are six basic implementation methods currently available for development at Wappapello Lake:

    1. Cost Sharing


    2. Requirements for cost sharing recreational development with non-Federal public interests will be considered when the need for such facilities can be sufficiently demonstrated. Although this Master Plan does not contain any cost-sharing proposals, it may in the future serve as a basis for initiating such actions.

      The current Corps regulation, ER 1165-2-400 requires that all recreational developments be cost shared 50 percent by non-Federal public agencies. The non-Federal sponsor is required to enter into a cost sharing contract with the Corps prior to construction and agree to assume operation and maintenance responsibilities for the completed recreation facility. In addition, the non-Federal sponsor must agree to more than offset the annualized federal investment by assuming the responsibility for operation and maintenance of existing recreation areas operated by the Corps. There are two exceptions to this policy. These exceptions permit the construction, operation and maintenance of new facilities without cost sharing:

      1. One exception is the authority for upgrading sanitary facilities in existing Corps managed recreation areas to meet urgent sanitation needs in accordance with provisions of applicable state and federal laws.


      2. The second exception involves the use of Special Recreation User Fee (SRUF) funds. These funds are authorized for expenditure on additional facility improvements, renovations and/or consolidation of recreation areas as long as it lowers recreation area operation and maintenance (O&M) costs and/or increases user fee revenues.


    3. Development Solely by Local Interests Under an Outgrant.


    4. As in the past, local governmental entities with all or part of a project in their jurisdiction, may obtain use, under a lease or license. All costs are the sole responsibility of the local sponsor.

    5. Use of Special Recreation User Fee (SRUF) Revenues.


    6. Special recreation user fee revenues, which are rebated to the District, will be available to accomplish a wide range of actions. Essentially, these funds may be used to decrease project operation and maintenance costs and/or to increase user fee revenues, but only in existing recreation areas. Means of achieving these goals may generally include renovation, consolidation, separation of day-use and overnight areas, addition of facilities or features thereof, and payment of operation and maintenance costs including those for fee collection and other improvements on a case by case basis. According to October 1984 guidance on the use of SRUF funds, they may also be applied to the provision of barrier-free access for people with physical disabilities. Under this implementation method, operation, maintenance, and major replacement responsibilities would remain with the Corps of Engineers or, with changed local conditions, could conceivably be assumed by an outgrantee.

    7. Regular MR&T General Funds.


    8. The use of MR&T O&M funds is restricted to normal O&M activities and to where facilities are in need of total renovation, reconstruction, or replacement. Changes or upgrades to facilities is restricted to current MR&T O&M funding levels for replacement or rebuilding of existing facilities.

    9. Development by Concessionaire.


    10. The fifth development method that could be used at Wappapello Lake involves the implementation of some of the plans proposed in this Master Plan by a concessionaire. Only activities for which there is a viable commercial market are eligible. For developments undertaken in this manner, operation, maintenance, and major replacements are also provided by the concessionaire.

    11. Challenge Cost-Share


    12. The challenge cost-sharing program provides opportunities for public and non-Federal groups and individuals to contribute to and participate in the operation and/or management of recreation facilities and natural resources at Corps water resource development projects. Partnering with others provides a way to stretch the Corps of Engineers budget by sharing the cost of operating and managing recreation facilities and natural resources.



Continue to Section VIII -- Resource Plan