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Vantage to Pomona Heights Chapter 3 230 kV Transmission Line Project FEIS Affected Environment PAGE 3-190 Lower Crab Creek, and drainages within JBLM YTC and other less developed and undeveloped areas contain more landform and vegetation variety. The open water areas of Priest Rapids Reservoir, Wanapum Reservoir, and the Columbia River, coupled with the surrounding basalt cliffs near the Columbia River-Saddle Mountain area on the west side of the river, as well as the Yakima River Canyon corridor, provide the most visually diverse and scenic landscapes in the Project study area. Scenic quality was identified in BLM’s 2010 VRI and data gaps were filled as part of the visual resources analysis for the DEIS and SDEIS. Table 3.8-1 summarizes the SQRU BLM 2010 VRI unit within the Project study area; three units are located within the Project study area (SQRU 024, 026, and 030). Rating units identified as part of this analysis that are shown in Table 3.8-2. Landscapes that were not evaluated in BLM’s 2010 VRI were identified and evaluated in the Project analysis area for scenic quality. These areas were assigned rating units, evaluated for similarity with the inventory units developed in the BLM 2010 study, and assessed using Form 8400-1. All of these units were located on non-BLM lands, primarily JBLM YTC land. In some instances, scenic quality was inferred from existing VRI data and similar landscapes in the region due to remoteness and access difficulty. A summary of the SQRUs developed during the evaluation of the Vantage-Pomona Heights Transmission Line Project is shown in Table 3.8-2. Figures C-2.7 and C-2.8 in Appendix C-2 show the scenic quality from the IOPs in the Project study area. The locations of IOPs are shown in Appendix A- Visual Resources map. Table 3.8-1 SQRUs Identified in 2010 BLM VRI Study in Project study area BLM SQRU ID NUMBER DESCRIPTION SCENIC QUALITY RATING 022 Common landscape in region; some interesting features with several discordant elements; high level of agricultural development adds discordant elements to the landscape. The dominant landscape features in this unit are the Rattlesnake Hills and Yakima Ridge. It is characterized by undulating, rolling hills, with interesting erosional patterns and ephemeral drainages and draws. Colors tend to be muted, though with some contrast, and are likely more pronounced in growing seasons. Modifications include roads, fences, transmission lines, and agricultural fields in valley/low lying areas. Agricultural areas provide strong contrast with generally undeveloped higher elevation areas. C 024 Distinctive river canyon with many interesting features. Unit includes the distinctive Yakima River Canyon, which is characterized by prominent rock outcrops, formations, and boulder fields along with an interesting variety of vegetation. Scale of canyon provides a more intimate landscape experience (when compared to larger river canyons in region). Road, railroad, and developed recreation sites are the primary landscape modifications and are designed to fit the contours of the canyon, introducing slightly discordant elements at certain locations. Some residential/ranch and industrial facilities also add some discordant elements to the canyon. Tourism and recreation-related use is high given scenic quality and recreation opportunities in the canyon. A 025 Common, with little vertical relief and interesting features. Unit includes the Wahluke Slope, the south facing aspect of the Saddle Mountains. The southern slope is characterized by low, rolling hills with periodic shallow to deeply cut ravines and drainages that add some texture to the landscape. Orchards and vineyards extend to the lower portion of the foothills. Transmission lines cross the ridge and off-highway vehicle and other road cuts are visible in several locations. While interesting as a large, relatively undeveloped ridgeline/slope against a largely agricultural backdrop, it is also common in the region and has few distinctive features. C