Visual Resource Analysis for Solar Energy Zones in the San Luis Valley

Abstract

As directed by detailed instructions provided by BLM, four separate evaluations were conducted as part of the SEZ analysis:1. The general regional condition and trends of the visual resource within the region (as reflected in the visual resource inventory) were determined, and the changes in visual values for each SEZ were evaluated in the context of the regional condition and trend; 2. The relative scarcity of scenic quality and scenic quality component scores in the region was assessed, and the changes in visual values for each SEZ resulting from solar development were evaluated in the context of the scarcity of scenic quality in the region as a whole; 3. The resilience of the visual resource within the region was identified; and 4. The compatibility of solar development in the SEZs with the land use planning objectives for the SEZ areas, as expressed by the visual resource management classes (VRM classes) identified for the areas, was determined.A finding that the changes to the visual values for the SEZs, as determined by items 1, 2, or 4, are significant on a regional basis would indicate potential warrant for regional compensatory mitigation, with item 3 (resilience) informing the analysis. Warrant for regional compensatory mitigation was determined for each SEZ separately.The results of the SEZ analysis can be summarized as follows:Regional visual resource condition and trend: The current condition of both BLM and non-BLM lands in the SLV indicates substantial degradation of scenic quality in the region, and the expected trend is toward further development, indicating greater losses to visual resources in the SLV in the future.Regional scenic quality scarcity: High scenic quality is considered very scarce within the inventoried portion of the region, while moderate and low scenic quality is common. Regional sensitivity scarcity:The majority of the region was determined to have high sensitivity.Regional distance zone scarcity: Nearly all inventoried lands (90%) are within the BLM foreground-middleground zone of 0-5 mi.Resilience: Resilience of the SEZ landscapes is low. Because of the open and treeless nature of the SEZs and their relatively uniform colors and textures, visual absorption capability is also low.Regional and SEZ-specific analysis results and regional compensatory mitigation recommendations are as follows: