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The Forest Service developed the scenery management system (SMS) process to identify scenic elements as they relate to people, outlining steps to map these components and assign an value for aesthetics. This objective process takes into account considerations such as visibility and sensitivity of scenes based on distance from an observer and provides information such as concern level routes, scenic integrity, and other helpful components. To effectively communicate settings and to integrate scenery management with other resources when considering projects and management activities, the SMS process provides six distinct scenic integrity classes in a continuum (very high, high, moderate, low, very low, and unacceptably low) ranging from the most intact landscapes to areas with more noticeable disruptions.

During the assessment period, the GMUG’s existing scenic integrity was inventoried and mapped to indicate the current state of the landscape, considering previous human alterations to measure the intactness of the scenic character and the degree of visible disruption. Existing scenic integrity for the GMUG was expressed in terms of very high, high, moderate, low, and very low (no areas were found to be unacceptably low). Existing Scenic Character, concern level routes, scenic attractiveness, and other helpful information can be found in the revised Scenic Character Assessment, which was improved based on public comment. 

Using existing scenic integrity as a starting point, the GMUG developed proposed Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIOs) based on public input, expert opinion, best available scientific information and a need to address issues as part of plan revision under the 2012 Planning Rule (FSH 1909.12 Chapter 20, section 23.23f). SIOs would serve as a guide for design and implementation of management activities.