draft draft draft draft draft draft draft draft draft draft

4 downloads 0 Views 1MB Size Report
state functionally identical to the original (U.S. Code Congressional & ...... Lands, a BMP is site specific (Northwest Indian Cemetery Protective Association, et. al.
OBJECTIVES The objectives of this Guide are to consolidate information for the use and development of site specific Soil and Water Conservation Practices (SWCP) on National Forest System (NFS) lands in the Southern Region. Attention to them will help avoid or minimize significant adverse impacts of management activities on soil and water resources, and beneficial water uses. The implementation of the intent of these practices are consistent with the U.S. Forest Service desire to obtain designation by the State as the Water Quality Management Agency for NFS lands or for the development of formal interagency agreement to cooperate on nonpoint source pollution management issues. The SWCP translate legal provisions and scientific principles into solid, common sense stewardship actions. Use of the practices support wise resource management and quality results on the ground.

-1-

I.

INTRODUCTION The Clean Water Act (CWA) of 1972 (Public Law 92-500), as amended in 1977 (Public Law 95-217) and 1987 (Water Quality Act of 1987, Public Law 100-4), set a national goal to restore and maintain the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the Nation's waters (Section 101(a)). The CWA provides a means to protect and improve the quality of the water resources and maintain their beneficial uses. The CWA amended the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 that started water pollution control. Severe limitations in the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 necessitated amendments and finally overhaul in 1972 due to increasing public concerns over providing a more inclusive, broader based and enforceable approach to water quality regulation. Sections 208 and 319 of the CWA recognize the need for nonpoint source pollution control strategies for nonpoint source pollution. To provide environmental protection and improvement emphasis for water and soil resources and water-related beneficial uses, the National Nonpoint Source Policy (December 12, 1984), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Nonpoint Source Water Quality Policy (December 5, 1984), and the Forest Service Nonpoint Strategy (January 29, 1985) were developed. Best Management Practices (BMP) was recognized as the primary technology-based control mechanisms for nonpoint sources of pollution on NFS lands. This perspective is supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in their guidance, "Nonpoint Source Controls and Water Quality Standards" (August 19, 1987). Section 303 of the CWA requires states to establish water quality standards for all waters. For impaired waters where water quality standards are not attained, states are required to list and assess total maximum daily loads (TMDL) for pollutant loading and determine appropriate loading allocations or other technology or administrative-based control strategies for the sources involved to implement the applicable water quality standards. Section 401 requires that before a federal agency may issue a permit or license for an activity that may result in a discharge into navigable waters, a certification must be obtained from the state in which the discharge originates. The certification must ensure that the discharge complies with State Water Quality requirements. If a state agency is not authorized to make the certification, EPA may do so. Section 402 of the CWA requires National Pollutant Discharge Elimination system (NPDES) permits for pollutants discharged into waters of the United States. Storm water runoff is addressed in Section 402 (p) may require permits for certain industrial and municipal discharges that may include certain ground disturbing activities as identified by the States. Certain development activities such as parking lots and construction activities that expose extensive areas of soil need to be consistent with the provisions. In September 1992, EPA regulations called for use of BMPs to control pollution from storm water runoff with the States establishing guidance, priorities, and requirements. Section 313 of the CWA and Executive Order (EO) 12088 requires the Forest Service to adhere to the goals set forth in the State Water Quality Standards. The Water Quality Standards are intended to protect the designated uses of all State waters.

-2-

Federal agency compliance with water pollution control mandates is addressed through Sections 313 and 319 of the CWA. Agency compliance is to be consistent with requirements that apply to "any nongovernmental entity" or private person. Compliance is to be in line with "all Federal, State, and local requirements, administrative authority, and process and sanctions respecting the control and abatement of water pollution." The Federal Facilities Compliance Program (FFCP) database includes facilities that are out of compliance with the CWA provisions. Portions of FFCP data may also be found in Forest Watershed Improvement Needs (WIN) and National Resource Inventory System (NRISAquatic) - data. Section 504 discussed emergency powers of EPA to protect the health and welfare of persons where substantial pollutant evidence shows an endangerment to persons or their livelihood. Section 505 allows civil suits pertaining to CWA violations and the failure by the States or the EPA to implement provisions. The National Forests in the Southern Region agree to apply SWCP to comply with a variety of legal and environmental direction (see also major laws under AUTHORITY section) and to provide an example of conservation land ethics. Soil and Water Conservation Practices include all the measures that are needed to protect and manage soil and water resources. They are a generic, encompassing term that is based on both direction and sound professional guidance. The direction and guidance comes from a variety of sources including the CWA, Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), Floodplain, Wetland and other EOs, State BMPs, State Forest Practices and Water Quality Regulations, Forest Plans, Region 8 Vegetation Management Plans, and USDA Forest Service directives, manuals and handbooks. Region 8 SWCPs Guide is not intended to be an all-inclusive accumulation of technical information, but should provide a basis for environmental planning of activities relative to soil and water resources. Some of the contained information is not guidance, but actually required. However, the circumstances and detail necessary to separate standards from guidelines in this document would add additional complexity and detail that is not desired, and may be subject to change with time and location. Consultation with professional soil scientists, hydrologists, and others is needed to be fully up-to-date in implementing many of the activity areas described. Site-specific application of these SWCPs are designed with consideration of geology, land type, hydrology, soil type, erosion hazard, climate, cumulative effects, and other factors in order to fully protect and maintain soil, water, and water-related beneficial uses, and to prevent or reduce nonpoint source pollution.

-3-

II.

STRATEGY In accordance with the Multiple Use-Sustained Yield Act and other legislation (Resource Planning Act, National Forest Management Act (NFMA), NFS lands are to be managed for multiple uses, with a sustainable yield of resources. Maintenance and improvement of soil and water resources are key elements in sustaining all living resources and provide the framework for the multiple water-related beneficial uses dependent on healthy aquatic and riparian ecosystems. Use of SWCP is a means to ensure the protection and sustainability of those resources and use, while achieving other resource objectives. As typically interpreted by EPA and the States, proper design and application of SWCPs meets most, if not all, of the agency responsibility for nonpoint source pollution control in the CWA. In impaired water bodies, additional measures may be required to address pollution problems. Total mean daily loads (TMDL) may be instituted to allocate pollution among sources or require conservation or pollution abatement measures to treat point or nonpoint source pollution problems. The mandatory application of BMP may be sufficient to be consistent with TMDL. This guidance does not necessarily provide the detail that may be needed to address the specific circumstances that could be encountered with impaired waters in State 303d list or water quality limited waters in 305b list. Soil and water resources and water-related beneficial uses are most effectively protected or improved by implementation of SWCP. These practices are selected or developed using an interdisciplinary team in both Forest and project planning to: 1) include SWCPs consistently with the intent of this Region 8 Guide to Forest Plans, Watershed, or Area Analyses; 2) select and/or develop specific SWCP to meet site conditions relative to projects; and 3) limit or modify potential effects of the practices in National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents relative to the alternatives at various analysis scales. Office and field implementation of the SWCP will assure that the practices are transferred into contract provisions, monitored as to their implementation and effectiveness, maintained for ongoing activities and adjusted based on monitoring results. This Region 8 Guide provides SWCP for consideration when faced with soil and water issues. SWCP may be adjusted to meet site-specific conditions. For example, SWCPs 2.31 and 3.9 might be adjusted to provide revegetation relative to exposure of toxic rock due to road construction by stockpiling the surface soils and replacing them onto the exposed rock prior to revegetation. Adjustments of SWCPs 5.6, 5.11 and 5.12 may be used to protect water quality from fecal coliform and other waterborn contaminants associated with human waste disposal for popular areas of developed, dispersed or wilderness recreation sites. The site-specific design and application of individual SWCPs involves consideration of design standards and risks; environmental effects; practicality; as well as institutional, political, social, economic, and technical feasibility. 1 2 SWCP is designed to be consistent with the intent of Federal Law, EOs, Forest Service Manuals (FSM) and Forest Service Handbooks (FSH), and policy statements. The Region 8

1

For additional discussion, see: W.C. Harper, “A Resource Agency’s Perspective on Nonpoint source Management” (Symposium on monitoring Modeling, and mediating Water Quality, American Water Resources Association, May 1987, pages 641-62. 2 Drinking Water from Forests and Grasslands: A Synthesis of the Scientific Literature. 2000. USDA Forest Service General Technical Report SRS-39. Recent technical summaries of the literature relative to many activity areas and associated water quality issues are included with this guide.

-4-

Guidance on SWCP helps to describe the interdisciplinary process of actively selecting appropriate practices to avoid, minimize and mitigate water quality and soil effects. Circumstances with conflicting direction may need more detailed attention from resource specialists. Most Forests are actively involved with nonpoint source pollution management issues on the National Forest and have a formal agreement such as a Memorandum of Understanding with the State Forestry and/or Water Quality Management Agency. The SWCP identify both management requirements and considerations, which are to be addressed prior to and during the formulation of alternatives for land management actions. They may be in the form of administrative, preventative or corrective actions. SWCP Implementation SWCP is applied to specific conditions within environmental, political, social, economic, and technical feasibility. Commonly used words or conditions in conjunction with SWCP are: Corrective Preventive Site-specific Methods Pre-Project Ongoing Post-Project Temporal Spatial

Restore or maintain water quality Avoidance of sensitive areas Structural (dams, ditches, etc.) Non-structural (vegetation, fertilizer, mulch, etc.) Planning and design of activities, SWCPs Implementation of SWCPs designs and plans Monitoring and maintenance to assure continuing function Closure or obliteration when activities cease Schedules (season or timing restrictions) Geographic Distribution (activity location or required measures)

SWCP as Administrative, Preventive, and Corrective Actions Administrative actions are time, space, and procedurally oriented measures. Examples are: A. B. C. D.

Incorporating water quality protection measures into a contract as contract provisions. Scheduling an activity to avoid wettest season. Developing criteria that govern road layout and design. Reviewing project planning and implementation documents to ensure protection measures are incorporated. E. Inspecting project sites to ensure protection measures are working properly. F. Controlling the magnitude or aggregate of activities in a watershed (cumulative effects). G. Agreements to address NFS water quality issues associated with private lands.

-5-

H. Preventive actions are measures that are applied to prevent significant effects. Examples are: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Avoiding sensitive soil and water areas such as steep slopes, floodplains, and wetlands. Equipment limitation zones. Fencing riparian zone and providing water source in upland grazing areas. Corrective actions are measures that are applied after disturbance has occurred. Examples are: a) Rehabilitating the stream channel by installing debris, boulders or man-made structures. b) Decommissioning an abandoned road that is degrading water quality. c) Placing riprap or utilizing soil bioengineering or biotechnical methods to stop bank erosion. d) Reconstructing an existing open road or trail that is degrading water quality. e) Planting tree cuttings to improve shade on a thermal impacted trout stream. f) Reshaping and revegetating an active gully that is impairing water quality. g) Sowing fertilizer, grass seed and mulch on exposed soil. h) Paving or spreading aggregate (gravel) on the road surface. i) Constructing water dips or bars across roads or skid trails.

Considerations for Developing SWCPs The effects of land-management activities on soil and water resources and water-related beneficial uses can vary considerably. The effects are a function of: A. Physical Environment: The geologic, meteorologic, hydrologic, and edaphic conditions here the activity takes place (topography, physiography, precipitation, channel density, geology, soil type, etc.). B. Past, Current or Prospective Beneficial Uses: The specific water-related beneficial uses, dependent resources, and sensitivity to management influences are considerations when developing SWCPs to help achieve desired conditions. Past conditions may signal opportunity for restoration. C. Activity Type: The type of activity or proposed action (road access for recreation, mineral exploration, timber management, etc.). D. Project Prescription: Site-specific implementation plans (road construction methods, silvicultural practices, ground disturbing activities, soil bioengineering or biotechnical methods, etc.). E. Duration: The length of time that the activity occurs. F. Timing: The season of the year that the activity occurs. G. Extent: The area of activity. H. Monitoring: Ongoing activities are monitored to insure continuing function. I. Maintenance: Maintenance is essential of many SWCPs to continued effectiveness.

-6-

During implementation, substantial variance in site specific SWCPs may be used, since no single practice, method or technique is best in all circumstances. In many instances, existing measures already formalized in BMP, Forest Plan Standards or required contractual clauses may suffice. There is also a variance in cost effectiveness and resource function associated with some of the differing practices. This sensitivity of issues may also help to determine the level of risk and amount of impact that is reasonable, allowable, and tolerable. Natural complexities and uncertainties leave an element of risk with any design. This important (and difficult) task of project risk assessment must be based on predictable effects on other resources, and the overall need to conduct the management activity. Evaluation of risk is part of the interdisciplinary NEPA analysis for each project. The analysis should result in the selection of the appropriate levels of risk consistent with the issues and legal requirements to protect water quality, aquatic habitats, and site productivity. This level of risk is generally disclosed by alternative in the effects analysis for the line officer to review. Accepting the appropriate environmental risk level is part of the line officer's decision for each project. Adjustments in SWCPs can help reduce risk for individual projects or circumstances. Monitoring of actions and responding to deficiencies provides a safety net to respond when the conditions were different from the risk assumed. In order to better understand the Forest Service analysis process and where SWCP fit in, a discussion of the Forest Plan Implementation process, interdisciplinary involvement, and the SWCP Process is provided. Much of this is contained within the USDA Forest Service 1900-1 Forest Planning and Implementation Course.

-7-

Forest Plan Implementation Process and Interdisciplinary Involvement The NEPA process and professional interdisciplinary involvement is critical for the development and application of both generic and site-specific SWCP. Direction for the NEPA process (environmental analysis and documentation) is contained in Forest Service Policy and Procedures found in FSM 1950 and FSH 1909.15 (A diagram of this direction is shown in Figure 1). These sources also provide direction to incorporate the interdisciplinary process in planning and decision-making.

Forest Plan and NFMAConsistency

Proposed Action/ Purpose and Need

Possible Management Practices

NEPA Scoping Issue Identification Alternatives Effects

Opportunities Goals and Objectives

Public Public Participatio Participation n

NEPA Findings Significance

Existing Condition DFC's

Decision/Notification

Location

Implementation Adjustment, Evaluation, Monitoring FEEDBACK

Figure 1: Forest Plan Implementation Triangle (From 1900-1 course). The following information provides a synopsis of background information to assist in the proper interpretation. The Figure illustrates "Forest Plan Implementation," beginning from the identification of a management area location, continuing clockwise through the NFMA (Forest Planning), NEPA (Environmental analysis), implementation, and FEEDBACK legs of the triangle. Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) and adjustment complete the cycle. Public participation and involvement are elements that occur at selected stages in Forest Plan and project development process. Each side of the triangle has a meaning as follows:

-8-

1.

The left-hand side of the triangle or "NFMA" leg is the generalized process of comparing existing conditions on the ground with desired future conditions (DFC) developed in the Forest Plan. Deficiencies between the existing and desired conditions are formulated into a list of possible management opportunities or scenarios and project proposals are developed to address the differences so conditions can move in the desired direction. This is purely a management and planning process. No sitespecific decisions are made on this left-hand side of the triangle. The Forest Planning process is based on both public involvement and an analysis of what outcomes and impacts could be expected from alternative courses of action. The analysis behind the Forest Plan includes an environmental impact statement of effects relative to forest issues and various types of alternatives. The Forest Plan also discusses the suitability of areas for certain types of management. It identifies restricted areas where certain activities are limited, avoided or prohibited without much more specific analysis. Proposed actions or activities that are inconsistent with the Forest Plan can be considered, but are not allowed without amendment to the Forest Plan.

2.

The right side of the triangle or "NEPA" leg is the process whereby proposed actions are formed to move existing toward desired conditions (consistent with the Forest Plan). Alternatives for site-specific projects are developed through internal and external scoping to identify and address issues. The environmental effects of implementing the alternatives are analyzed and disclosed. SWCPs are selected from existing standards, guides, or BMPs, or they may be specially designed during the development of the alternatives based on site-specific conditions and Forest Service technical expertise. Feasibility of implementing the SWCPs and risk of failure/success are considered in the selection process. Proposed actions can be triggered by a variety of desired conditions, management needs, resource conditions and opportunities.

3.

The base of the triangle, "M&E and Adjustment", is the “Feedback" leg to improve upon the Forest Plan and implementation of projects and provides the basis for adjustments of SWCPs. Practices are assessed as to proper implementation and effectiveness and overall assumptions tested for validity at achieving results and progress toward desired conditions. This evaluation is critical in determining any ongoing treatment or maintenance needs. Methods used for the monitoring can vary in intensity from simple visual field assessments or inspection reports to complex study or research level data collection to statistically estimate or model the applicability of the SWCPs to the specific and/or general conditions.

4.

The design, application, M&E of SWCPs are an integral part of Forest Plan implementation. This process, which follows the guidelines of Region 8's Non-point Source Pollution Strategy, is described in detail in the Adjustments Section. (See page 17.)

5.

Interdisciplinary involvement is the use of a team of individuals who have relevant professional expertise and experience in the resources potentially affected by the proposed action. Team members combine the skills necessary to formulate and evaluate alternatives. Where an appropriate level of resource experience or knowledge is lacking within the team, consultation with trained professionals, legal direction, FSM, and other technical guidance to fulfill resource responsibility. Their familiarity -9-

with the conditions as well as the directives help them select or develop the appropriate SWCPs that aid in the Forest Service decision making process. Technical review and/or concurrence with SWCPs are sometimes requested when there is little or no direct professional soil and water involvement. The final responsibility for decisionmaking lies with the Line Officer (District Rangers, Forest Supervisors, Regional Forester). The Team's task is to provide the decision maker with alternatives and evaluations needed to make a responsible decision. The Line Officer requests further clarity as needed, before making the decision and documenting the reasoning. SWCP Process The SWCP involves a five step, iterative process (see Figure 2) that is closely related to and implemented through the Forest Plan Implementation process and/or the project operations, monitoring and evaluation efforts. Land uses, activities or conditions that are proposed or existing must go through this process to ensure consistency with Soil and Water (S&W), NFMA, NEPA, legal and other direction. LAND ACTIVITY OR USE (proposed or current) | Step 1. SWCP Design/selection (Redesign) | Step 2. SWCP Application | Step 3. Monitoring | Step 4. Evaluation/documentation | Step 5. Feedback Continue/Stop/Adjust/Maintain ________________________|__________________________ | | | If SWCP is effective If SWCP is not effective If SWCP is Damaged Continue Stop/Adjust by outside forces | | Maintain | | | Use the SWCP as needed in Go back to Step 1, For SWCP to function it Steps 1 or 2 to and re-evaluate and adjust needs maintenance work. select, apply or any critical projects Make sure of proper use of improve. Steps 3-5 are in Step 2. Continue Step 1 before re-doing. less frequent as long with Steps 3-5 as Re-apply in Step 2. Continue no problems arise. needed until SWCP is in Steps 3 and 4 to assure determined effective. Step 1 is adequate. If SWCP fails again, consider going to Stop/Adjust in Step 5 or increasing maintenance schedule for SWCP.

-10-

Figure 2: The SWCP Process includes design, application, M&E and documentation elements. Findings may cause SWCP redesign, maintenance, or reconstruction if improper functioning occurs. Each step is expounded upon in more detail below: Step 1 - The design, selection or redesign of SWCPs to fit site conditions involves technical S&W specialists and/or general forest practitioners with training in S&W responsibilities. A basic understanding of the processes involved in routine design or application needs is assumed. The site-specific selection and/or design of specific SWCP include an awareness of the proposed actions, the existing and desired conditions, the location, soil, water quality and other resource issues or special needs. When existing or potential impairment of resources are associated with actions or the resource risk is great, experienced professional and technical guidance is sought Step 2 - The application of SWCP begins with the NEPA or other documentation requirements, trained activity administrators with the existing conditions, desired conditions and the SWCP selected. The fitting of the SWCP to the ground conditions can be done with contract specifications, pre-activity reconnaissance, and/or plans. Activity administrators and operators with substantial past experience with similar NFS work may be able to bypass some of the basic steps. Training in the application of SWCP and monitoring their effectiveness are essential for effective water quality protection. A forest training and information program should include: a) Objectives for water quality protection and management; b) State designated beneficial uses of water; c) cause and effect relationships in nonpoint source pollution and stormwater runoff; d) the relevance of SWCP and BMP; e) Legal aspects; and f) The site-specific application and function of SWCP/BMP. Step 3 - The activity administrator and line officer making the decision share responsibility in SWCP monitoring and maintenance as long as the activity occurs. Technical assistance, direction and training from soil and water specialists such as soil scientists and hydrologists are key elements in maintaining quality control. Monitoring is critical in field-testing of SWCP for proper function and to help determine their effectiveness. Step 4 - The monitoring results are evaluated at several levels to determine if further follow-up is needed. Were the SWCPs designed and planned properly? Were the SWCPs applied correctly? Were they effective? Were the assumptions made concerning the SWCPs valid (i.e., were soil and water quality resources and associated habitats protected or damaged)? Evaluation includes simple and obvious observations and interpretations. In some cases, more detailed data collections and complex statistical or modeling approaches may be needed to answer these questions. Step 5 - Reporting should include the outcome of the regular monitoring results, summarized periodically, with brief findings or recommendations. An appendix or other method can be used to include or refer to the process record, supporting data, inspection sheets, or observations. Depending on the level of soil and water expertise of those implementing the monitoring or reporting, some technical soil and water review, communication and interaction may be needed during various stages of the process and in reporting. Technical soil and water specialists should review all findings that would change SWCP use and application. Reporting should also be the outcome of specific -11-

project monitoring activities that are part of activity, resource, management, or research studies. The frequency of reporting should be consistent with the data collection and the importance and need for incorporating the findings into future M&E reports, plans, or activities. Intensive training should be given to: a) contracting officers (CO); b) engineering representatives; c) sale Administrators; d) personnel involved in planning and implementing activities which have the potential to affect water quality, beneficial uses of water, and soil resources; e) Environmental and NEPA coordinators; f) Forest Planners; g) soil and water professionals and technicians; and (h) line officers or responsible officials. The following example of a flow chart summarizes some of the types of information that might be considered in site-specific design of SWCP for a proposed action or land-use activity. This process relates back to the information in figures 1 and 2. An Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) approach is used to successfully accomplish this process. EXAMPLE – FLOW CHART FOR A PROPOSED ACTION Identify Forest Service Minimize soil erosion and sedimentation. Goals and Objectives, DFCs Meet water quality standards. (left hand side) Protect dependent resources and beneficial uses. Improve impaired stream reaches. Maintain or improve site productivity. Avoid or minimize effect to floodplains and wetlands. Maintain forest health. Prevent excessive insect and disease mortality. Physical/ Biological Conditions (right hand side)

Site Specific Field Investigation: Slopes range 20-55%. Land stability problems not evident. Soils are very deep, well drained & highly erosive if exposed. Lower slopes have high rock content. Ground cover is 85% with thick duff layer. Channel entrenched and stable. Mean stream flow approximately 15 cubic feet per second (CFS). Materials dominated by large cobble with boulders, gravel. Stream gradients 5-10 percent. Rosgen stream types A3 and A4 (dominant) with some A2. Riffle pool bedform with some cascade and step pool sections. Brook trout habitat affected by thermal limitations due to 2,000 feet elevation and past riparian vegetation loss. 2 miles of stream with only 20% shade from riparian area. (Sources are integrated resource inventories, ecological unit descriptions, NRIS, WIN data).

-12-

(right hand side of triangle)

Office Investigation: Mean annual precipitation is 60 inches, water yield 35 inches. Water quality good except for some natural and nonpoint source thermal influence; mean annual summer peak is 78 degrees F with normal diurnal cooling of 3-5 degrees F (State report of past monitoring results/studies). Historic peak temperatures estimated at 68 degrees F from model and old data. Aerial photos indicate past removal of riparian trees in rocky soil has had limited recovery. Road clearing and gypsy moth damage contributed to shade loss along stream.

Identify Beneficial Uses

Fish including native brook trout (historic) and non-native rainbow trout (current), wildlife habitat, indigenous aquatic life, domestic water supply for less than 10 individuals (source: State water quality and fish habitat reports).

(left or right hand side) Analyze Alternatives NEPA

Identify project goals/objectives. Analyze potential effects of alternatives on soil/water resource (sources for project goals/objectives include Forest Plans, State Management Plans, Coastal Zone Management Plans, State Water Quality Standards).

SWCP Alternatives (right hand side)

Note: At this point, a number of SWCPs would be considered for the alternatives. At a minimum, state approved BMPs for forestry would be applied. For the purposes of this illustration, 4 miles of system road are needed to access area for timber harvest. Up to 3 miles of open streams can be improved, but some agreements with neighbors may be needed to achieve best results. SWCPs 1.7, 3.3, 3.5, 3.6 and 3.7 apply to erosion and stability. Three examples of State BMP were selected and applied as project SWCPs because in past monitoring they have proven to be effective in road slope erosion control and have been supported by the soil scientist & hydrologist: (a) (b) (c)

Broadcast seed on exposed slopes, cover with jute mating, Broadcast seed and put filter windrow at base of fill slope, Contour furrow cut and fill slope to prevent surface runoff and erosion.

-13-

SWCPs may be developed for the specific needs using 2.5, 2.7, 2.11, 2.14, 2.26, 3.11 and others to address thermal pollution and trout habitat improvement. Feasibility (consider, social, political, economic, technical, and institutional constraints.)

Interaction with the design engineer indicates contour furrowing is not effective for this road. Wildlife biologist expresses concern over use of jute matting in the proximity of deer fawning area. Through IDT interaction, the team agrees on application number 2, using fescue seed as the desired result. There is some concern that fescue is a persistent non-native grass species, tends to clump and has toxic influence to pine stands. However, since it provides suitable erosion control, cold season native species are not available, and pine trees are not being grown on the road right-of-way, all agreed that fescue could be used for now, with future emphasis on developing both cold and warm season native plants for erosion control purposes.

Risk Hazaard analysis, design risk, etc.

Final SWCP Design

Grass fails to become established about 20 percent of the time. When jute matting is added, the failure rate is only 5 percent and the resultant erosion is cut 50 percent. Straw mulch produces similar results in erosion control and also improves grass establishment. The most favorable wildlife/ erosion seed mix considering the topographic region, season, soils and rainfall has been brown top millet, red top and kobe lespedeza. Additional concern about using nonnative plants for erosion control. Filter debris windrows applied below roads and bladed skid trails typically remove 80-90 percent of sediment from hillslope or fill erosion (surface or rill type). (Source: team consultation with hydrologist, soil scientist and botanist) The IDT modified the SWCP to use the seed mix that best suited the conditions as recommended by the soil scientist. Pre-existing or unavoidable roads within 100 feet of perennial or intermittent streams will use biodegradable jute matting on cutslopes 1/2:1 or greater. Straw mulch will be used on all other exposed slopes. Filter windrows are applied below road fills when operating in the streamside zone. Streambank and shade mitigation is provided with soil bioengineering methods as planned in SWCP numbers 1.3 and 1.7. Cooperative agreements and opportunities for cost-sharing incentives are discussed

with Trout Unlimited, state wildlife and water quality agencies, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and riparian landowners in the drainage. Any 404 or 401 -14-

permits needed for stream-bank or channel work will be obtained from the Corps of Engineers and State. Disclose Effects with mitigation in accordance with NEPA guidelines

The environmental analysis included aspects of SWCPs 1.1-1.7 and others to properly address the affects to floodplains and wetlands, soil productivity, water quality (especially sedimentation and stream temperatures), etc. Direct, indirect and cumulative effects are discussed as to magnitude, timing, duration and ability to recover (naturally or with SWCP use). Included among the predicted outcome, the soil scientist & hydrologist determine that with mitigation, there will be an estimated 15 tons of suspended sediment will be delivered during first year with a reduction to 3 tons within 3 years. With road closure and full stabilization, the road is expected to produce less than one ton in 5 years. These equate to a short-term water quality increase averaging 1 part per million (ppm) of suspended sediments that is reduced to less than 0.1 ppm within 5 years. Reference watersheds typically have a background sediment concentration averaging 9 ppm sediment. The hydrologist and biologist have determined this will only have a temporary effect on water quality and no measurable effect on fish habitat. The streambank and shade restoration measures have potential to improve water quality, bank stability and reclaim some critical native trout habitat over the next decade.

Line Decision to Implement

The line officer decides to implement the adjusted alternative based on the analysis provided. The reasons for the decision included: 1) the road access and timber harvest will improve stand health and reduce gypsy moth stand mortality and decline. 2) Sediment effects will be minimal and temporary as mitigated by SWCPs, 3) Stream temperatures, bank stability and water quality would be improved by the intense soil bioengineering and biotechnical methods planned, 4) Marginal brook trout habitat would be improved, 5) floodplains and wetlands were not involved, 6) effects analysis did not indicate any critical resource effects that would warrant special considerations or analyses, and 7) Forest Plan DFC's are better met in the areas of forest health, water quality and trout habitats by implementing this decision. Most of the stream zone impacted by inadequate stream shade is within the proposed sale area. The opportunity for stream/habitat benefits could not be overlooked in making the decision to use timber sale (KV) improvement funds. In addition, the potential to partner with riparian landowners and other agencies and interests looks very promising to increase -15-

improvements to this native trout stream. Future needs to develop native plant species for erosion control needs are noted with follow-up planned. Other funding or opportunity for this stream improvement is unlikely due to budget constraints. Many local and county publics, Trout Unlimited, State Department of Natural Resources and other groups agree that thermal impairment is causing trout population decline and natural recovery is expected to be slow. The domestic water users are concerned with added sediment, but recognize quality stewardship in National Forest management. There will be only temporary minor increases in sediment to contend with and some improvement in the long run is expected through improving the exposed riparian zone. Past success in stabilizing exposed soils using erosion control measures and seed mixtures recommended by the soil scientist or hydrologist, and implemented by trained District personnel was a consideration in allowing this activity to proceed as planned. The aggressive treatments assure the main effects will be minimized and temporary. M&E follow-up. Ranger, IDT and resource staff assure quality control and monitoring. (Forest Specialists are consulted as needed.)

The DFC for the stream thermal issue was monitored by the IDT and District Ranger by developing an implementation plan with the hydrologist, soil scientist, fishery biologist botanist. Contract Specifications were provided by NRCS Engineering Field Handbook, Chapter 18, Soil Bioengineering for Upland Slope Protection and Erosion Reduction; and U.S. Forest Service Technical Publication R8-TP 16, Stream Habitat Improvement Handbook and Biotechnical Slope Protection and Erosion Control by D.H. Gray and A.T. Leiser, 1982. Krieger Publishing Co, Malabar, Florida. The botanist helped decide the native species to use. They recognized that some of the live tree stakes may need to be augered into the soil, due to rocks. Waddling and machines were also used when rocks were not found. Timing of work was important to reduce mortality. They developed a 5-year monitoring plan with a desired annual cost of less than $500. A report is due after year five on the treatment results and noticeable trends in stream temperature and trout numbers from above and below the improved section. One-year follow-up is planned by the IDT after all work is completed and initial stabilization methods have a chance to mitigate effects. Any weaknesses in the identification, design, implementation or effectiveness of SWCPs will be discussed. Findings and recommendations will be provided to ensure future success. -16-

Beneficial Uses Protected? If no. 1. Redesign project and/or modify the application of the SWCP. 2. Suggest need to validate/revise SWCP or recommend revision of criteria established to protect beneficial use. 3. Stop activity if not protecting beneficial use. 4. Take corrective action/mitigation. Adjustments The last step of the feedback mechanism is adjustments. These adjustments are directed at SWCP, BMP, Plan S&Gs, or other guidance measures. If M&E indicates evaluation criteria are not being met, an adjustment of the site-specific application of SWCPs is needed. Adjustments vary depending on the type and severity of the impact to the soil and water resource or beneficial use. For minor to moderate impacts, closer attention to selection and application of site specific SWCP are undertaken to assure the criteria are met. When the impact is major, the project activity is re-evaluated, redesigned, modified, or dropped. When appropriate, the application process for SWCP and other project requirements are revised. Corrective actions to prevent or minimize negative resource impacts need to be initiated immediately. When monitoring results consistently indicate SWCP applications are adequate to protect water quality and beneficial uses, it may be desirable to formalize them into Forest Plans, Handbooks or as agreed, State BMP. Formalized and accepted SWCPs will need less frequent review. The feedback mechanism is an iterative (back and forth) process of monitoring, evaluation, reporting and adjustment of SWCP applications and/or evaluation criteria. Through this cycle of evaluation, new criteria may be developed and State Water Quality Standards and Forest Plan S&Gs can be adjusted to fit circumstances. Format The general format used to present each of the SWCP in this Guide is as follows: Heading Practice

Context Includes the sequential number of the practice and a brief title. The numbering of the activities does not have any intended significance.

Objective

Describes the desired results or attainment of the practice as it relates to soil and water resource or beneficial use protection.

Explanation

Further defines the brief title and expresses how the practice is applied. Describe criteria or standards when applicable.

Implementation

Describes where the practice is applied, who is responsible for application, direction and -17-

supervision, and when the practice is employed. References

Identifies the FSM, Handbook, contract or permit provision, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), policy statement and/or other references where the practice is further documented. The reference listings are not all inclusive.

The policy, authority, and definition background areas are addressed before getting into the specific activity areas. Chapters were developed by management activity to improve ability and access the material by subject area. Although some duplication exists, SWCPs were generally not repeated for similar actions. Some cross-reference between activities or practices may be needed by the user to fit the situation. For instance, if a road is needed for mineral access, look for added guidance in chapter 3. The management activities as presented in chapters in the SWCP Handbook are as follows: Chapters 1 - Watershed Management 2 - Timber Management 3 - Roads and Trails 4 - Vegetation Management 5 - Recreation 6 - Minerals Management 7 - Fish and Wildlife Habitat Improvements 8 - Fire Suppression and Fuels Management and 9 - Range.

-18-

III. POLICY The Forest Service is responsive to the environmental intent and directives provided in the CWA, as amended, State water quality goals and standards, and other environmental legislation. As part of its land stewardship policy, Forest Service management actions shall be carried out in a manner that protects the soil and water resources. The Forest Service will continue to coordinate management actions affecting water quality and associated beneficial uses with responsible State agencies. The Forest Service will continue to provide leadership in nonpoint source pollution control for all management activities occurring on NFS lands including implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The Forest Service will achieve compliance with the intent of the CWA and State Water Quality Standards. The need for compliance with law and regulation is mandatory. The implementation of site specific SWCP can be used to meet our responsibility under the CWA. The Forest Service will monitor, evaluate and revise SWCP based on the effectiveness of the SWCP to meet a variety of desired as well as mandatory conditions including Forest Plans, State Water Quality Standards, and soil, water and other resource goals. The Forest Service shall work with States to become or continue to be involved with nonpoint source pollution management and when possible be recognized as the Designated Water Quality Management Agency for NFS lands.

-19-

IV. AUTHORITY Major Laws. Forest Service watershed conservation is based on six major laws that direct a consistent land-and-water stewardship vision. These laws direct Forest Service actions to protect watersheds through sound management. A.

Organic Administration Act of 1897, as Amended (16 United States Code (U.S.C.) 475). This law defines original National Forest purposes to improve and protect the forest, secure favorable conditions of water flows, and furnish a continuous supply of timber. Years of concern about watershed damage led to creation of the NFS. Watersheds must be cared for to sustain their hydrologic function as "sponge-andfilter" systems that absorb and store water and naturally regulate runoff. The goals are good vegetation and ground cover, streams in dynamic equilibrium with their channels and flood plains, and natural conveyance of water and sediment.

B.

Weeks Law (16 U.S.C. 480, 485, 500, 515, 517, 517A, 518, 519, 521, 552, 563). Re-affirmed the Organic Act and permitted purchases of lands for National Forest purposes.

C.

Multiple Use-Sustained Yield Act of 1960, as Amended (16 U.S.C.528). This law amplifies National Forest purposes to include watershed, wildlife and fish, outdoor recreation, range, and timber. Renewable surface resources are to be managed for multiple use and sustained yield of the several products and services that they provide. The principles of multiple use and sustained yield include the provision that the productivity of the land, shall not be impaired.

D.

National Forest Management Act of 1976 (16 U.S.C. 1600-1602, 1604, 1606, 16081614). The Forest Service must be a leader in conserving natural resources (Section 2). Programs must protect and, where appropriate, improve the quality of soil and water (Section 5). Timber must be harvested only where soil, slope, and watershed conditions are not irreversibly damaged; the land can be adequately restocked within 5 years after harvest; and streams, lakes, wetlands, and other water bodies are protected from detrimental impacts (Section 6.g).

E.

Management prescriptions must conserve soil and water resources and not allow significant or permanent impairment of land productivity. Riparian areas along perennial water bodies need special attention. Management practices must not cause detrimental changes in water temperature or chemistry, blockages of watercourses, or sediment deposits that seriously and adversely affect water conditions or fish habitat (36 CFR 219.27). Fish habitat must maintain viable populations of existing native and desired non-native vertebrate species (36 CFR 219.19).

F.

Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1752). NFS lands must be managed to protect ecological, environmental, air, water resource, and other resource values, and provide food and habitat for fish, wildlife, and domestic animals (Sections 102 and 310). Rights-of-way and uses shall include terms and conditions to protect the environment (Sections 302 and 505), subject to valid existing rights (Title VII). -20-

G.

The CWA of 1977 (33 U.S.C. 1251, 1254, 1323, 1324, 1329, 1342, 1344). This series of laws was written to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation's waters (Section 101). CWA was based on the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948, as amended. Congress sought to sustain the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of waters of the United States so they will support diverse, productive, stable aquatic ecosystems with a balanced range of indigenous aquatic habitats. All issues were framed by the intent of Congress to improve and preserve the quality of the Nation's waters (540 F2.d 1023; 543 F2.d 1198; 612 F2.d 1231; 97 S.Ct 1340; 97 S.Ct 1672). States have authority over water rights (Section 101g). The Forest Service must comply with water quality laws and rules, coordinate actions that affect water quality with States, and control nonpoint-source pollution as other landowners (Section 313). The Forest Service is a designated Water Quality Management Agency and must carry out parts of State water quality management plans on National Forests and Grasslands. The Forest Service must apply BMP, considering local factors, to control areawide sources of pollution consistent with approved State nonpoint source plans (Sections 208 (b)(2)(F, G, H, K) and Section 208 (j)(1)) and set goals to meet water quality standards (Section 303) and nonpoint source management programs (Section 319). State-classified water uses, and the water quality they need, must be sustained to comply with the antidegradation policy, unless States decide that vital economic and social development justify impacts (40 CFR 131.12). In impaired waterbodies, the Forest Service must be consistent with specific TMDL requirements and responsibilities insofar as they are relative to management activities (Section 303 (d)(1)(C)). Waters of the United States include perennial and intermittent rivers, lakes, streams, wetlands, and their tributaries. Ephemeral streams with defined channels and signs of active scour are also included. Aquatic ecosystems are waters of the United States that serve as habitat for interrelated and interacting communities and populations of plants and animals (40 CFR 230.3). Section 404, in concert with other provisions (including section 401), provides rigorous criteria to control discharges of pollutants, by direct placement or runoff into waters of the United States (40 CFR 230.11). The Forest Service must strongly pursue options that avoid crossing, coming near, or discharging material into special aquatic sites before choosing a course of action that does (40 CFR 230. 10a). Special aquatic sites include wetlands and riffle-pool complexes that are commonly known as steep gradient streams (40 CFR 230.41, 230.45). Actions to minimize adverse effects are also found (40 CFR 230.70-230.77) Section 404 sets a no-impairment rule for waters of the United States. This rule is met if mandatory BMPs (listed in 33 CFR 323.4) are applied and stream health is not degraded beyond that allowed by applicable nationwide permits. Roads that meet conditions of nationwide or regional general 404 permits or qualify for exemption from a permit must use mandatory BMPs to protect water quality, extent of waters, and aquatic ecosystems (Section 404(f) (1); 33 CFR 330, Appendix A; 40 CFR -21-

230.7). If such permit conditions and exemption criteria are not met, an individual permit is required (40 CFR 230). Section 401 water quality certification is also required in most instances and is processed in conjunction with section 404 permits. Congress intended to maintain robust natural processes in waters of the United States for the well-being of human society. Changes should be of a temporary nature, such that by natural processes, within a few weeks at most, aquatic ecosystems return to a state functionally identical to the original (U.S. Code Congressional & Administrative News 1972: 3742). Impacts to flow patterns, temperature, dissolved oxygen, sediment, and pollutant levels must be controlled (33 U.S.C. 1311 and 1314; 843 F2.d 1194; 753 F2.d 759). Compliance is based on standards and protection of uses, not BMP (Anderson 1987; Whitman 1989). Physical features needed to support existing uses for antidegradation include substrate, cover, flow, depth, pools and riffles (40 CFR 131.10, 230.10, and 230.11). Additional laws and regulations complement the land-and-water stewardship. • Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act of 1937 (7 U.S. C. 1010). This law mandates conservation of land to correct land abuse, control erosion, mitigate floods, conserve soil moisture, and protect watersheds. • Sustained Yield Forest Management Act of 1944 (16 U.S.C. 583). This law ties the goal of sustained yield to maintaining water supply, regulating stream flow, preventing soil erosion, and preserving wildlife. • Anderson-Mansfield Reforestation and Revegetation Act of 1949 (16 U.S.C. 581j). This law recognizes forest and other vegetative cover to be vital for watershed protection. The law also provides for reforestation and revegetation on NFS lands to protect watersheds, reduce flood damages, and sustain water supplies. • Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act of 1954 (16 U.S.C. 1001). This law authorizes watershed improvement works to prevent floods, conserve ground water recharge and water quality, and protect aquatic life (16 U.S.C. 1004). • Granger-Thye Act of 1950 (16 U.S.C. 5801). This law authorizes issuance of grazing permits having terms that preserve land and resources from erosion and flood damage. The Forest Service may reduce livestock numbers (608 F.2d 803) and cancel grazing permits (696 F2.d 712) if land is overgrazed. • Public Rangelands Improvement Act of 1978 (43 U.S.C. 1903). This law directs that range condition and productivity be improved to protect watershed function, soil, water, and fish habitat (43 U.S.C. 1901-1902). • Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1502). This law requires land and resources to be protected from erosion and pollution. -22-

• Pipelines Act of 1920 (30 U.S.C. 185). This law mandates erosion control and reclamation on oil-gas pipelines. • Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (30 U.S.C. 1269). This law mandates erosion control and reclamation on surface coal mines. • Emergency Wetlands Resources Act of 1986 (16 U.S.C. 3921). This law recognizes key wetland functions and directs the USDA to cooperate in a national wetlands priority conservation plan. • EO 11988 (Floodplain Management) and EO 11990 (Protection of Wetlands). This law intends to preserve the natural and beneficial values of floodplains and wetlands (flood moderation, water quality protection, ground water recharge, wildlife habitat, etc.), design structures and facilities when location within these areas is unavoidable, and reduce unnecessary hazards and losses. • EO 11644 (as amended) Use of Off Road Vehicles (ORV) on Public Lands. This law intends to provide direction for appropriate conditions of ORV use on public lands, provide for protection of resource values, public involvement, enforcement, monitoring, and immediate closure options when excessive resource damage occurs. Similar direction specific to the USDA Forest Service is also found in 36 CFR 295 concerning Use of Motor Vehicles off Forest Service Roads. • CZMA (Public Law 92-583). This law directs conservation within coastal areas. Management Measures were developed to limit sources of nonpoint source pollution.

-23-

CHAPTER 1 WATERSHED MANAGEMENT

-24-

WATERSHED MANAGEMENT - Watershed management is the art and science of conserving soil and water resources and their water-related beneficial uses through management. Management is oriented toward maintaining or enhancing watershed conditions favorable for optimum water quality, water yield and timing, and soil productivity. Watershed management includes the improvement of soil and water resources on National Forests and Grasslands damaged by catastrophic events or degraded by past use. Elements of watershed management and analysis are budgeted and planned in a variety of EBLI or project funds. Contents of Practice 1.1

1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15

Determination of Cumulative Watershed Effects Soil Water Resources Monitoring and Evaluation Watershed Improvement Planning and Implementation Floodplain Analysis and Evaluation Wetlands Analysis and Evaluation Riparian Area Designation and Protection Streambank Protection Oil Pollution Prevention Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Planning Control of Activities Under Special-Use Permit Management by Closure to Use Water Well Construction and Management Administrative Site Planning and Management Planning, Design, and Management of Linear Transmission Facilities (Powerlines, and Pipelines) CZMA Activities and Implementation

1.1 - PRACTICE. Determination of Cumulative Watershed Effects (CWE) Objective - To determine the CWE on a variety of conditions such as stream stability, soil productivity, water quality and the beneficial uses of water caused by multiple land management activities, distributed over both time and space. Explanation - The National Forests in the Southern Region will manage watersheds to avoid irreversible effects on the soil resource and to produce water of quality and quantity sufficient to maintain beneficial issues in compliance with State Water Quality Standards. The scope and scale of the SWCP can vary from an individual protective measure at one location to a procedure for deciding what, when, and where management activities are to occur over a small to a large land area. The use of the term watershed is generic in that any size hydrologic unit that is appropriate for the analysis may be considered. SWCPs are applied individually at a site to deal with specific situations. SWCP can be applied in a series, or in conjunction with other practices to deal with deficiencies identified in watershed, road, project, or other analyses. Where appropriate, the NFs will work with other agencies and landowners to address watershed based activities and problems that contribute to watershed impairment or resource impacts.

-25-

CWE analyses procedures are tools to assist in deciding the appropriate amount, timing, and placement of various activities in a watershed to achieve soil and water resource objectives. Analysis tools include, but are not limited to empirical formulas such as the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, Geographic Information System application for landscape analysis, hydrologic or other models, field inventories, and results from applicable research, study and monitoring efforts. Past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions on all lands in a watershed are evaluated relative to natural or undisturbed conditions. CWE may be a result of changes in beneficial water uses caused by the accumulation of individual impacts. To avoid adverse CWE, recovery should occur before the impact of the next individual practice. Examples of potential cumulative effects are: a. b. c. d. e.

reduced natural woody debris input to stream channels that may cause alterations in channel morphology and reductions in fish habitat; excess sediment production that may reduce water quality, aquatic habitat and other beneficial uses; water temperature and nutrient increases that may affect beneficial uses; disturbed soil and hydrology that may cause increased soil erosion and sedimentation; and increased water yields and peak flows that may upset stream channel equilibrium.

Implementation - As part of the NEPA process, the Forest Service will consider the potential CWE of multiple land management activities in a watershed which may cause the resource's capacity or the stream's physical or biological system to exceed its ability to recover to desired conditions. Forest and project plans conduct CWE analysis will be included prior to including projects on implementation schedules, to ensure that the project, considered with other activities, will not decrease soil productivity or increase sediment, water yields or channel impacts beyond acceptable limits. The Forest Plan, State Water Quality Standards and other regulations will help define desired conditions and project proposals and activities within acceptable limits. The Forest Service will also coordinate and cooperate with other federal, state and private landowners in assessing cumulative effects in multiple ownership watersheds. References - 40 CFR 1508.7; Guide for Soil/Water/Air Environmental Effects Analysis in NEPA Documents, prepared by Jack Holcomb, Region 8. 1.2 - PRACTICE. Soil and Water Resource Monitoring and Evaluation Obejective - To determine effects of land management activities on soil productivity and beneficial water uses; to monitor baseline watershed conditions for comparison with State standards, Forest Plan standards and guidelines, and estimation of long-term trends; to ensure the health and safety of water users; to evaluate SWCP effectiveness; and to determine the adequacy of data, assumptions, and coefficients in the Forest Plans. Explanation - Watersheds will be managed to avoid long-term effects on the soil resource and to produce water of quality and quantity sufficient to maintain beneficial uses in compliance with State Water Quality Standards. Monitoring and evaluation are needed as feedback mechanisms to compare the results of management activities and SWCPs on soil -26-

and water resources with previous (baseline) conditions, desired-end products, and State standards. To accomplish this, a comparison will be made, on a representative sample basis, of effects of activities on soils and water over time. Other information from the United States Geological Survey, States, Universities, and research are included as appropriate. Previous monitoring and evaluation have included: a. b. c. d.

bulk density, soil disturbance, and/or tree growth to evaluate soil productivity and hydrologic function; sediment and turbidity to evaluate effects on domestic water supplies; sediment, dissolved oxygen, water temperature, pH, cobble embeddedness, percent fines in substrate, and channel cross sections to monitor effects on fisheries and indigenous aquatic life; and fecal coliform and pH to monitor condition of swimming uses.

Implementation - Forest Plans will include watershed monitoring plans that focus on beneficial water uses such as domestic supplies, recreation, and fisheries; activity and pollutant levels where water quality impairment or diminished resources are highlighted; and areas where soil or productivity losses have been excessive. Regionally approved monitoring techniques will be used. Specific monitoring plans will be coordinated among Forests and responsible State, and Federal agencies. Ongoing research studies for some soil and water subjects exist from the U.S. Forest Service Research Stations while additional information can be found from other agencies as the United States Geological Survey, EPA, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Universities, State Forestry and Water Quality Agencies, etc. Topics addressed include soil productivity, effects of practices on hydrology, etc. Specific monitoring and evaluation plans will include such items as: a. b. c. d.

monitoring objectives; review of existing data and information; location of monitoring sites; soil, water quality, stream or biological characteristics to be monitored and evaluated; e. type(s) or technique(s) of monitoring, including Quality Assurance/Quality Control; f. intensity of monitoring (frequency and duration); g. responsibilities and roles of monitoring personnel; h. methodology for analysis and evaluation; i. estimated cost, and j. who will prepare the report and when? k. who will receive the report and when? l. data base management; m. associated job hazard analyses; and n. training Information from these plans is used to prepare Forest Budgets and Staffing needs. When changes and effects from management activities are detected, the Forest Service will evaluate their significance and determine appropriate action. Where project-level activities are not meeting Forest Plan or State standards, they will be redesigned, rescheduled, or terminated and mitigated. -27-

EPA computerized STORET system (a computerized STOrage and RETrieval system for water quality data) is the preferred repository for water quality data collected in monitoring. Water quality data will be placed in this computer system for storage, analyses, and public review. It is also necessary to place significant data into Geographic Information System and NRIS data bases. References: FSM 1922, 2525, 2532, and 2554; Land and Resource Management Planning Handbook, Chapter 6 (FSH 1909.12); 36 CFR 219; Solomon, R.A. and Avers, P.E., 1987. A Water Quality Monitoring Framework to satisfy Legal Requirements. American Water Resources Association Symposium on Monitoring, Modeling, and Mediating Water Quality. pp. 231-242; Soil Monitoring Handbook (FSH 2509.18); S. L. Ponce. 1980. Water Quality Monitoring Programs (WSDG-TP-00002); S.L. Ponce. 1980; State Water Quality Standards and BMP; Land Managers Guide to Water Quality Monitoring (EPA/910/9-91-039); Monitoring Guidelines to Evaluate Effects of Forestry Activities on streams in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska (EPA/910/9-91-001); Methods for Evaluating the Effectiveness of Forestry BMP In Meeting Water Quality Goals or Standards by George Dissmeyer, (USDA Forest Service, Misc. Pub. 1520,7/94). 1.3 - PRACTICE. Watershed Improvement Planning and Implementation Objective - To improve degraded watershed conditions, to minimize soil erosion, and to improve water availability and/or quality. Explanation -Watershed improvement is a corrective measure to repair ongoing soil and water problems that have developed from past management or in some cases, natural conditions. Factors considered in the evaluation of soil and water resource problems and subsequent improvement are: threat to life and property, predicted changes in water quality and its associated effects on beneficial uses, downstream values, on-site productivity, direct and indirect economic returns, and social and scenic benefits. Examples of watershed improvement measures are gully and streambank stabilization, addition of surface drainage structures to abandoned roads and trails, and removal of excessive debris related to water quality and channel stability problems. Actual practices include soil bioengineering and biotechnical techniques, terraces, waterways, soil ripping, seeding, fertilizing, planting and mulching. As developed for local and regional needs, native plants will be utilized whenever practical and suitable to achieve results. Invasive, exotic plants identified on the Region 8 Category 1 Invasive Exotic Plant List will not be used under any circumstances. Implementation - This SWCP is typically implemented through the development of a soil and water resource improvement needs inventory, WIN, the preparation and approval of cost effective treatment plans, and the funding of the plan and implementation. When appropriate, information will be added to the NRIS database. If a soil and water resource problem is observed and documented by resource specialists or Line officers, an interdisciplinary team will assess each site, develop the necessary SWCPs to correct the problem and integrate them into the Forest Budget and Project planning process for funding and implementation. The NEPA process will be followed in the planning and implementation of improvement measures. U.S. Forest Service crews or -28-

contracting measures may be used to implement projects. Effectiveness of improvement measures will be monitored and evaluated. References: FSM 2522; Watershed Improvement Handbook (FSH 2509.15); CZMA (Public Law 92-583); 33 CFR Parts 320-330, EO 13148 (Greening of the Government through Leadership in Environmental Management) and Executive Memorandum (Fed. Reg. V59, no. 161), Region 8, 2080 Letter dated May 18, 2001. 1-4 - PRACTICE. Floodplain Analysis and Evaluation Objective - To protect floodplain values and avoid, where possible, the long and short-term adverse impacts to soil and water resources associated with the occupancy and modification of floodplains. Explanation - The Forest Service does not permit the implementation of activities and new construction in floodplains whenever there is a practical alternative. A floodplain analysis and evaluation will be made prior to acquisition or exchange of land within floodplains. A floodplain analysis and evaluation will be made when sites within floodplains are considered for structures or development. Environmental quality, ecological effects, and individual safety and health are considered. Flood frequencies, watershed conditions, climatic and environmental factors associated with past flood events, flood flow quantities, and specific flood boundaries are all evaluated. Implementation - The Regional Forester is responsible for ensuring consideration of floodplain hazards and values in all management activities and actions. The Forest Supervisor, through use of technical staffs, is responsible for: a. b. c. d. e. f.

determining if proposed facilities are within 100-and 500-year floodplain boundaries; determining if data currently exist about floodplain boundaries; documenting analysis of floodplain hazards and management options; requiring flood hazard evaluations prior to issuance of special-use permits; ensuring that floodplain hazards, management considerations, and appropriate restrictions are included in authorizing documents; and designing, constructing, or rehabilitating affected National Forest real property in accordance with criteria outlined in the National Flood Insurance Program; and

Providing for conspicuous marking of the 100-year floodplain elevation at public use sites and stream crossings on open public roads where flood levels or velocities are a public hazard to life or property such as vehicles, tents, etc. References: CZMA (Public Law 92-583); 33 CFR Parts 320-330; EO 11988, Floodplain Management; FSM 2527; FSH 1909.15; Guidelines for Making Floodplain and Wetland Evaluations for Land Exchanges. USDA, Forest Service, Southwestern Region Hydrology Note No. 19a.

-29-

1.5 - PRACTICE. Wetlands Analysis and Evaluation Objective - To maintain wetland functions and avoid adverse soil, water and other resource impacts associated with the destruction or modification of wetlands. Explanation - The Forest Service does not permit the implementation of activities and new construction that would destroy or alter wetlands including their hydrology and soils, whenever there is a practical alternative. A wetland analysis and evaluation will be made prior to acquisition or exchange of wetlands. Evaluation of proposed actions in wetlands will consider factors relevant to the proposals effect on wetlands. Impacts to adjacent upland areas are preferred and generally selected over development or destruction in wetlands. Vegetation management activities that maintain bottomland or wetland characteristics have limited effects when designed and implemented properly so that wetland hydrology or soils are not destroyed or substantially altered. Factors to be considered include extent and duration of flooding or saturation, water supply, water quality, recharge areas, flood and storm hazards, flora and fauna, soil types, habitat diversity, and stability. Opportunities to restore wetlands that have been damaged from past actions may be considered. On a case-by-case basis, forests will mitigate wetlands damaged from implementing activities as required. Forests may choose to cooperate with mitigation banking or in lieu of fee efforts under circumstances when donations or other suitable agreements offer functioning wetland mitigation sites within the forest boundary and the restrictions are consistent within Forest goals and directives. Implementation - The Regional Forester is responsible for ensuring wetland values are considered and documented as an integral part of the planning process. Forest Supervisors, through use of their technical staffs, will determine whether proposed actions should be located in wetlands and, if so, whether there is a reasonable alternative. If there are no practical alternatives, the Forest Supervisor must ensure that all mitigating measures are incorporated into the plans and designs and that the actions maintain the function of the wetlands. Identification and mapping of wetlands are part of the ecological classification and compliance with Section 404 of the CWA. Development or maintenance actions will be consistent with NEPA and appropriate State and Federal permits. In some instances, mitigation may be required if wetlands are impacted. Mitigation can be undertaken to try to repair a damaged or altered wetland. Many times roads and other activities have inadvertently impacted wetlands. Opportunities to expand and improve federal management of wetlands can be obtained through directed land adjustments such as exchanges or purchases. In some instances, donations may conserve wetland areas for tax advantages or provide some mitigation for non-federal activities. Wetland mitigation bank donations should clearly display in deed restrictions or other agreements that is responsible for maintenance activities such as design failure, beaver invasion, plant mortality, or invasive, exotic plant removal. Carefully evaluate any deed restrictions that could place unreasonable limits to adjacent area management. References: CZMA (Public Law 92-583); 33 CFR Parts 320-330; EO 11990, Protection of Wetlands; FSM 2527; FSH 1909.15; Maxwell, J. and LaFayette, R., 1986. Guidelines for Making Floodplain, and Wetland Evaluations for Land Exchanges. USDA, Forest Service, Southwestern Region Hydrology Note No. 19a. l.6 - PRACTICE. Riparian Area Designation and Protection -30-

Objective - To maintain and protect water quality, and to minimize adverse effects on riparian areas from logging and other land disturbing management activities. Explanation - Riparian areas consist of lands between streams and uplands with distinctive vegetation associated with the presence of free or unbound water, including floodplains, moist terraces and wetlands. Identification and designation of riparian areas is needed to determine the extent and distribution of highly valued and sensitive riparian resources. Riparian areas require closely managed activity. Riparian areas (1) serve to store sediment; (2) maintain shade; (3) provide riparian habitats with exceptional biodiversity components for wildlife and plant species, 4) create recreation opportunities; (5) protect channels and streambanks; (6) reduce flood impacts; (7) maintain many mature and old growth communities, and (8) provide a long-term source of nutrients and large organic debris to the stream channel system. The following minimum considerations for ensuring favorable conditions of water flow are found in FSM 2526. a.

Manage riparian areas in relation to various legal mandates, including, but not limited to those associated with floodplains, wetlands, water quality, dredged and fill material, endangered species, wild and scenic rivers, and cultural resources.

b.

Manage riparian areas under the principles of multiple-use and sustained-yield.

c.

Give preferential consideration to riparian dependent resources when conflicts among land use activities occur.

d.

Delineate and evaluate riparian areas prior to implementing any project activity. Utilize onsite hydrologic, soil, and vegetative characteristics to determine the geographic boundaries of riparian areas.

e.

Give special attention to land and vegetation for approximately 100 feet from the edges of all perennial streams, lakes and other bodies of water. This distance shall correspond to at least the recognizable area dominated by the riparian vegetation (36 CFR 219.27e). Give special attention to adjacent terrestrial areas to assure adequate protection for the riparian dependent resources.

Implementation - Water quality and riparian area requirements are identified during the environmental analysis by the interdisciplinary team. The environmental analysis will ensure that planned management activities within riparian areas are compatible with all riparian/aquatic habitat, and soil and water resource management objectives. Where appropriate, utilize regional guidance for the identification, protection, and management of the Riparian Corridor.

-31-

References: CZMA (Public Law 92-583); 33 CFR Parts 320-330. FSM, 2453.2, 2526, and 2471; FSH 1909.15 NEPA; NFMA; Timber Sale Contract Provisions; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15), and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); and FSH 1909.12 - Land and Resource Management Planning Handbook 1.7 - PRACTICE. Streambank Protection Objective - To minimize sediment production from streambanks and structural abutments in natural waterways. Explanation - The stabilization of stream embankments disturbed by the construction of road and trail stream crossings, roadway fills parallel to a streamcourse, fish and wildlife improvement projects, and so forth, are necessary to prevent erosion, sedimentation and channel capacity during high stream flow. To reduce sediment and channel bank degradation, it may be necessary to incorporate "armoring" or use soil bioengineering techniques in the structural design to stabilize the water course after construction. Riprap, gabion structures, branch packing, live stakes, and other measures are commonly used to armor stream banks and drainageways from the erosive forces of flowing water. These measures must be sized and installed in such a way that they effectively resist erosive water velocities and do not significantly restrict channel capacity. Appropriate filter cloth or other material should be used to prevent the loss of finer material from behind the coarse riprap. Stone used for riprap should be free from weakly structured rock, soil, organic material and materials of insufficient size, all of which are not resistant to stream flow and would only serve as sediment sources. Interlocking concrete or other materials are used when appropriate. Outlets for drainage facilities above streambanks and in erodible soils commonly require riprapping or other techniques for water dispersal and energy dissipation. When applicable, native plant materials are used, avoiding use of plants on the Region 8 Invasive Exotic Plant List. Implementation - Project location and criteria are developed through the planning and NEPA process to meet the objectives and requirements of soil and water resource management. Detailed mitigative measures are developed by a design engineer and/or hydrologist by using criteria from the environmental analysis and consultation with technical resource staff. Forest Supervisors are responsible for implementing In-Service projects to design standards and management requirements. Ensure consistency with federal and state regulations including requirements under Section 401 for water quality certification and 404 individual or nationwide permits or agency notification is included where needed. For contracted projects, compliance with contract specifications and operating plans is assured by the CO or CO representative. References: 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-10OB; Corps of Engineers Manual EM 1110-2-16-1 dated 7/11/70; FHWA HEC (Use of Riprap for Bank Protection EPD-86-108); FSM 2630; FSH 2609.13 (Wildlife and Fisheries Habitat Improvement Handbook, 1986); Federal CWA (Public Law 95-217); Federal Water Pollution Control Act (Section 404); CZMA (Public Law 92-583); 33 CFR Parts 320-330.

-32-

1.8 - PRACTICE. Oil Pollution Prevention Objective - To protect surface and subsurface soil and water resources from nontransportation-related facilities. Explanation - Oil delivery and storage facilities will be located, designed, constructed, and maintained in a manner that minimizes the potential for contamination of surface and subsurface soil and water resources from leaking flow lines, pipelines and storage tanks. Roads, vegetative manipulation, and other considerations should be evaluated in the construction and maintenance of these facilities. Implementation - The siting and operation of oil and petroleum delivery systems and storage facilities will follow applicable Federal (EPA) and state guidelines and requirements with regard to: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i.

Design/Location Construction Installation Operation procedures Testing Release detection systems Record-keeping requirements Leak/spill reporting requirements Abandonment

Storage facilities and delivery systems on National Forest lands will require a license and/or special use permit. Licenses and permits require the project to comply with all State and local standards. Relevant SWCPs from this and other sections may be required. The Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) plan requires appropriate measures to prevent petroleum products that could be spilled, from entering the navigable waters of the United States. SPCC plans are required if the total, above or below ground container, exceeds the limits listed in 40 CFR 112. SPCC plans have to be signed by a registered Engineer, and must be posted on the site. SPCC plans are required for Forest Service-owned and special-use permitted facilities, and Federal application for permits to drill. Timber sale operators and other construction are included in this requirement. Underground storage tanks must equal or exceed the limits listed in 40CFR 280 for design, installation, leak detection, and monitoring of both new and existing underground tanks. References. FSM 7442; 40 CFR 112, 280 and 300.72 (a)(1); 1984 RCRA amendment Subtitle I.

-33-

1.9 - PRACTICE. Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Planning Objective - To minimize contamination of waters from accidental spills by use of appropriate contingency plans. Explanation - A contingency plan contains a predetermined organization and set of actions to be implemented immediately in the event of an oil or hazardous substance spill from mobile or fixed facilities. Factors considered for each spill are: the specific substance spilled, the quantity, its toxicity, proximity of spill to waters, and the hazard to life, property and the environment. These plans are tiered from the National contingency plan (NCP, 40 CFR 300) to State, and local plans. The purpose of the contingency plans is to effectively utilize the powers and responsibilities created by the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) and the authorities established by Section 311 of the CWA, as amended. Implementation - Each Forest is responsible for designating a Hazardous Materials Coordinator and keeping a current list of names and telephone numbers of agencies and individuals to notify regarding response and clean-up of spills. Individual Forests maintain an inventory of materials to use during the cleanup of a spill. Disposal sites will be coordinated with EPA, State, and local officials responsible for safe disposal. If a spill is from a Forest Service facility or operation, the Forest Service is the "person-incharge" and is responsible for all reporting and immediate response actions, as appropriate. If the spill is from a third party operation, the Forest Service will respond and report the spill if the third party fails to take appropriate action. Assignment of a Forest Service investigator to the incident should be considered. The Forest Service will generally provide support services and turn its incident command role over to the authorized, Federal on-Scene Coordinator or other authorized, State or local authorities after their arrival at the spill site. References. FSM 6740, 7443f 2130, and 2150; Health and Safety Code Handbook (FSH 6709.11); 40 CFR 300. 1.10 – PRACTICE. Control of Activities Under Special Use-Permit Objective - To protect surface and subsurface soil and water resources from physical, chemical, and biological pollutants resulting from activities that are under special-use permit. Explanation - All uses of NFS lands, improvements, and resources except those provided for in the regulation governing the disposal of timber (36 CFR 233), minerals (36 CFR 228), and the grazing of livestock (36 CFR 222), are designated “special uses.” Some examples are: hydropower plants, water systems, oil and gas pipelines, communication sites, road easements, electrical transmission lines, organization camps, resorts, marinas, outfitting and guiding services, recreation residences, and military training. Before engaging in a special use, persons or entities must submit an application to an authorized -34-

officer to obtain a special use authorization. SWCP are implemented in an attached operating or resource management plan. Implementation - The special use permitting process requires interdisciplinary evaluation. The special use permit under which agencies, companies, groups, or individuals operate, will detail the conditions including SWCP required for operation. The permit holders are required to conform to all applicable Federal, State and local regulations including Forest Plan guidance governing water quality, erosion control, sanitation, protection of beneficial uses, etc. Failure on the part of the permit holder to meet the conditions of the special-use permit may result in the permit being revoked or other actions to compensate for resource loss. Due to the variety of activities that could potentially be proposed under special use, the IDT should review SWCPs under other chapters that apply to the activities being proposed or implemented. Consultation with technical specialists should be utilized when formal SWCPs or BMPs have not been developed for activities. References. FSM 2700 and 2300, FSH 2709.11, FSH 2709.12, and 36 CFR 251, subparts B, C and D. 1.11 - PRACTICE. Management by Closure to Use Objective - To exclude activities that would result in serious and adverse damage to facilities or degradation of soil and water resources. Explanation - Closure is a SWCP when used to control access or use of an area or facility to protect soil and water resources. Closures may be temporary for seasonal problems such as excessive soil moisture or permanent such as the decommissioning of a road or campsite that will no longer be used. Examples of this type of closure are roads, campgrounds, trails and watershed improvement project areas. A decision to use closure as a SWCP is considered in terms of maintenance and environmental costs compared to multi-resource benefits of continued public use. Administrative use is not normally considered justification for keeping a road or other areas open. Closure may be by temporary measures such as gating, fencing, signing, to more permanent-closure or decommissioning with earth barrier, removal of facilities, or removal of drainage crossings, such as culverts and bridges, installation of permanent erosion control features. Implementation - Closures (seasonal, temporary, or permanent) are made when the responsible Line Officer determines that soil and water resources need protection from use. The decision to close an area is made after an evaluation of alternative methods of protection. Closures are made by order of the responsible line officer. References: EO 11644, Use of Off-Road Vehicles on the Public Lands, and EO 11989, Off-Road Vehicles on Public Lands, 36 CFR 295, Use of Motor Vehicles Off Forest Service Roads.

-35-

1.12 - PRACTICE. Water Well Construction and Management Objective - To protect ground water resources from contamination transmitted from water well developments. Explanation - Ground water wells and facilities will be completed in a manner that reduces the potential of contamination of the ground water aquifer. Properly designed wells and above ground well casing collars will minimize the risk of incidental contamination from animals and human activities. Implementation - Water well design standards will contain measures to prevent the introduction of toxic substances into the well bore. Protective measures may include grading to direct surface waters away from the well bore, cementing or grouting around the casing pipe, well covers and seals, fencing, and imposing minimum distances between wells and sewage systems. Abandoned wells will be permanently sealed in compliance with local and state requirements. Appropriate state permits are obtained for these activities. References: Structural Range Improvement Handbook (FSH 2209.22); Water Developments and Sanitation Handbook (FSH 7409.11); Engineering Field Manual for Conservation Practices, 1969, U.S. Soil Conservation Service, Chapter 12, Springs and Wells; Recommended Standards for Water Works (Ten States Standards), New York Health Education Service; State Drinking Water Standards; State Well Construction Standards. 1.13 - PRACTICE. Administrative Site Planning and Management Objective - To locate, design, and manage administrative sites to prevent water pollution, soil contamination, and adverse health impacts. Explanation - Several types of facilities may be located on Forest Service land to facilitate the administration of various programs. These may include Ranger and Research stations, work centers, fire depots and nursery offices. Some facilities include living quarters with wastewater systems. Most include potable water systems. Water quality and potential health impacts should be a major factor in determining the size, type, and location of new or expanded facilities. Implementation - New or expanded administrative facilities should not be located within floodplains, wetlands, or riparian areas. Individual facilities should be located to minimize sediment production and the movement of potential pollutants (oil, gas, and so forth) into surface and ground waters. Potable water and sewage treatment systems will meet all Federal, State and local standards. Regional Forest Service programs that guide operation and maintenance of wastewater facilities will be implemented by qualified sanitary personnel. References: EO 11990; EO 11990; CZMA (Public Law 92-583); CWA; NEPA; FSM 7420, 7430, 7440, and 7460.

-36-

1.14 - PRACTICE. Planning, Design and Management of Linear Transmission Facilities Powerlines and Pipelines) Objective - To ensure that construction and maintenance of power lines and pipelines are accomplished in a manner that minimize effects on soil and water resources. Explanation - Power lines and pipelines are constructed on NFS land by both public and private agencies under either an easement or special use permit. Soil and water resource impacts should be addressed at three levels. a.

Corridor planning and location. Corridor location can affect the degree of soil and water impacts through such factors as number of stream crossings required, stability of slopes, steepness of slopes, amount of riparian area, floodplains and wetlands disturbed.

b.

Project design. Specific impacts at the project level include service road location and standards, type of construction equipment (wheeled, tracked, helicopter), size and location of footings and guy anchors, and revegetation requirements.

c.

Right-of-Way-Management. Long-term management of transmission corridors may involve proposals for vegetative manipulation. Various alternative methods exist.

Implementation - Soil and water resource protective practices should be incorporated into the appropriate documents. For example: easement and permit clauses, project plans for construction and design, and the right-of-way management plans for ongoing maintenance of vegetation along the corridor. Easements and permits require the project proponent to comply with all State and local regulations regarding water quality and sanitation. References: FSH 2709.15, FSM 2770, and Fed. Power Act, Sec. 4. 1.15 - PRACTICE. CZMA Activities and Implementation Objective - Management in coastal areas minimize effects to coastal soil and water resources. Explanation - Coastal areas have a close proximity to estuarine and marine resources. Water quality is a common issue. The extent of coastal areas is limited and can be sensitive to management alterations. Over half of the U.S. population lives in these areas. Coastal areas include a high percentage of wetlands. Important recreational and commercial fishing and shell fish gathering are sometimes present. Linkage to migratory bird and shore species and their habitats is often critical. Coastal areas are faced with significant pollution and biodiversity issues. Special measures and considerations are needed to protect soil and water resources functions and values. Implementation - As part of the Interdisciplinary process, the potential effects to coastal resources are considered in proposed actions. Forest and project plans include special measures to conserve, protect, and sustain coastal resources. The Forests will coordinate -37-

and cooperate with other federal, state, and private landowners to improve coastal management and sustainability of soil and water resources including beneficial uses. SWCPs will include appropriate levels of consistency with both BMPs and EPA guidance specifying Management Measures to control pollution in coastal waters. Activities are consistent with the requirements to notify State Coastal Regulatory agencies of ground disturbing activities and obtain project review, determination of consistency and/or permits, when appropriate. References: CZMA (Public Law 92-583; Coastal Zone Act Reauthorization Amendments of 1990, Guidance Specifying Management Measures for Sources of Nonpoint Pollution in Coastal Areas (EPA 1993, Document 840-B-92-002).

-38-

CHAPTER 2 TIMBER MANAGEMENT

-39-

TIMBER MANAGEMENT Timber harvesting and reforestation are the culmination of several years of timber resource assessment and detailed project planning. The actual physical activities consist of felling, bucking, skidding, yarding, loading and hauling, site preparation, tree planting, and other silvicultural activities associated with stand establishment and maintenance. In most states, BMP for most timber management have been developed and utilized for many years. Planning generally starts 2 to 3 years before the timber sale is sold. First, the land must be suitable for and allocated to timber resource activities in the Forest Plan. Lands unsuited for normal sustained timber management may have some degree of management associated with other activities or desired conditions that are outlined in the Forest Plan. The proposed sale must follow the standards, guidelines, and direction within the Forest Plan, which includes consistency with BMP. Each harvest analysis is developed by an interdisciplinary team, which conducts an environmental analysis. Based on the analysis, the appropriate NEPA document is prepared with the SWCP that will be used and the estimated effects of the proposed timber sale. This is used by the appropriate Line Officer in decision-making. When the sale plan is approved, the timber project is implemented under terms of this decision. The Timber Sale Contract and appraisal are then prepared by using contract provisions that were selected to satisfy management constraints, applicable Forest Plan Standards including BMP, site specific SWCP and mitigation measures in the environmental analysis. The terms of the Timber Sale Contract, including harvesting, are administered by the Forest Sales Forester, Timber Sale Administrator, and Forest Service Representative. These individuals undergo training in appropriate levels of contract administration, inspection and documentation, BMP, Forest Planning, and NEPA Analysis. The success of timber management to be consistent with water quality and other responsibilities is determined by comparing the results from monitoring and evaluation of on-the-ground results to the management objectives contained within Forest Plans, BMPs, project plans, and SWCPs. Contents of Practice 2.1 Timber Sale Planning 2.2 Timber Harvest Unit Design 2.3 Timber Sale Project Coordination Map 2.4 Determining Ground Loggable with Conventional Equipment 2.5 Riparian Area Management 2.6 Wetland Management 2.7 Stream Channel/Streamcourse Protection 2.8 Suspended Log Yarding in Timber Harvesting 2.9 Limiting the Operating Period of Timber Sale Activities 2.10 Contract Preparation 2.11 Use of Sale Area Maps for Designation Soil and Water Resource Protection Needs 2.12 Nonrecurring Special Provisions for Soil and Water Quality Protection 2.13 Preoperations Meeting and Operating Plans

-40-

Contents of Practice (cont.) 2.14 2.15 2.16 2.17 2.18 2.19 2.20 2.21 2.22 2.23 2.24 2.25 2.26 2.27 2.28 2.29 2.30 2.31 2.32 2.33 2.34 2.35

Harvest Administration Inspections Limited Use Roads Road Maintenance Modification of the Timber Sale Contract Partial Cancellation/Full Cancellation of Timber Sale Contracts Log Landing Location and Design Temporary Road and Skid Trail Location and Design Streamcrossings on Temporary Roads Timing of Construction of Temporary Facilities Log Landing Erosion Prevention and Control Erosion Control on Temporary Roads and Skid Trails Erosion Prevention and Control Measures During Timber Sale Operations Revegetation of Areas Disturbed by Harvest Activities Erosion Control Structure Maintenance Acceptance of Timber Sale Erosion Control Measures Before Sale Closure Obliteration of Temporary Roads and Skid Trails Temporary Roads to Remain Open Revegetation of Surface Disturbed Areas Soil and Water Protection During Mechanical Site Preparation Soil Protection During Raking and Windrowing Protection of Soil and Water Resources During Mechanical Operations Protection of Soil and Water Resources During Fertilization

A. TIMBER PROJECT PLANNING 2.1 - PRACTICE. Timber Sale Planning Objective - To incorporate soil and water resource considerations into Timber Sale Planning. Explanation - Timber Sale Planning is accomplished through the NEPA process. The environmental analysis will evaluate the potential for impacts to the soil and water resources, including cumulative watershed effects. If potential impact exists, the environmental analysis will: (1) consider how to minimize potential effects during and following the sale layout and subsequent logging operations; (2) include mitigation of effects for those treated areas where impacts are unavoidable; and (3) identify environmentally sensitive areas where impacts from proposed treatments cannot be mitigated to conform with standards. Implementation - During the NEPA process, an interdisciplinary team will evaluate watershed characteristics and estimate response of soil and water resources to proposed timber harvest and related activities. The NEPA process identifies SWCPs and mitigating measures needed to protect soil and water resources. The subsequent contract will include provisions to meet water quality, soils, and other resource protection requirements as directed by the environmental analysis. References: 36 CFR 219.13(h)(1); FSM 1950, 2431.1, 2431.2, 2511, 2532.03(4), -41-

and 2531; Timber Sale Contract; individual Forest Plans; Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); Silvicultural Examination and Prescription Handbook (FSH 2409.26d); Silvicultural Practices Handbook (FSH 2409.17); FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian mountains. 2.2 - PRACTICE. Timber Harvest Unit Design Objective - To ensure that timber harvest unit design will secure favorable conditions of water flow to maintain water quality and soil productivity, and minimize soil erosion and sedimentation. Explanation - This is an administrative and preventive practice. The proposed timber harvest units are evaluated to estimate the effects on the drainage on the watershed. This involves field examination, use of existing data, analysis of potential watershed response (for example: water yield and sediment yield analysis), and professional judgment. Characteristics to be evaluated can include: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k.

the recovery from past harvests; the cumulative area that can be safely harvested; protection of stream channels; erosion potential of the area; landform characteristics; number, size, shape, and location of harvest units; estimated location and size of roads and skid trails; logging system design; potential natural recovery rate of the watershed; relative risk of blowdown within sensitive riparian areas; and temporary facilities (for example culverts, temporary bridges, rock fords, etc.). Where adverse water quality and soil productivity impacts or undesirable streamflows may result, the harvest unit design should be modified, individual units deleted, and/or the natural recovery rate accelerated by using watershed or timber sale improvement measures.

Implementation - The watershed evaluation of proposed timber harvest is accomplished by the interdisciplinary team during the NEPA process of Timber Sale Planning. Prescriptions to assure acceptable protection of soil and water resources through the use of SWCPs are incorporated into the environmental analysis. On-the-ground accomplishment of the direction in the environmental analysis is carried out by the Presale Forester, the Sale Administrator, the Project Engineer, and the project leader for cultural activities, with review by technical resource staffs. The need for monitoring and evaluation of soil and water resources will be identified in the environmental analysis. References: 36 CFR 219.13(h)(1); FSM 1950, 2431.1, 2431.2, 2511, 2532.03(4), and 2531; Timber Sale Contract; individual Forest Plans; Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); Silvicultural Examination and Prescription Handbook (FSH 2409.26d); Silvicultural Practices Handbook (FSH 2409.17); FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian mountains. -42-

2.3 - PRACTICE. Timber Sale Coordination Map Objective - To delineate the location of soil and water areas to be protected, and available water sources and to ensure their recognition, proper consideration, and protection on-theground. Explanation - The following features are designated on the Timber Sale Coordination Map, which is an integral part of the Silvicultural Prescription and NEPA document. a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k. l. m. n. o.

Location of stream courses to be protected: (perennial, intermittent and ephemeral) Wetlands and riparian areas (meadows, lakes, pot holes) to be protected Boundaries of harvest units Specified roads Roads where log hauling is prohibited or restricted Structural improvements Areas with differences in skidding and yarding techniques Known sources of rock for road work, riprapping, and so forth Other features required by Division "CT" Contract Provisions Domestic or public water supply source, if protection is needed Slash disposal treatments within or adjacent to riparian areas Areas of unstable hillslopes Areas needing watershed or other resource improvement (KV) Ecological units Drainage or watershed boundaries

Implementation - The interdisciplinary team identifies and delineates these and other features on maps that are included in the project design along with a discussion of each feature. Stream or soil type or classification, wetland, and riparian area boundaries may require adjustment following field verification by the layout forester and resource professionals. The Presale Forester or technician includes these areas on the Sale Area Map at the time of contract preparation. The features are reviewed on the ground by the Purchaser and the Sale Administrator prior to harvesting. Hydrologist, soil scientist, or other resource specialists are called in to address specific issues or conditions as needed. References: FSM 2431.1-.14, 2471; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian Mountains; Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service 2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT1.1, BT5.12, BT6.3, BT6.4, BT6.5, BT6.6, BT6.7; Special Provisions CT5.12#, CT5.123#, CT6.222#, CT6.401#, CT6.414#, CT6.426#, CT6.5#, CT6.62#, CT6.63#, CT6.65, CT6.7#, CT6.71#; (Forest Service 2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 1, 21, 30, 31, 33; Special Provisions 21.2#. 21b#, 21c#, 21d#, 21e#, 21f#, 24.1#, 30a#, 31a#, 33a#: (Forest Service -2400-4 contract) Standard Provisions 1, 20; Special Provisions 6, 7, 7.1a#, 8, 10#, 11, 20a, C#, E#, F#. 2.4 - PRACTICE. Determining Ground Loggable with Conventional Equipment

-43-

Objective - To protect soil and water resource from degradation caused by conventional logging equipment such as rubber tire log skidders or tractors and feller/bunchers. Explanation - This practice is intended to minimize soil erosion, compaction, displacement and puddling and subsequent sedimentation, water quality degradation and loss of soil productivity. This is a preventive practice. This measure limits surface disturbance and keeps surface runoff water from concentrating. Conventional logging ground criteria may be interpreted from soil and landtype inventories, geologic maps, climatic and hydrologic information. The type of conventional equipment must also be considered. The watershed factors that are considered include: slope gradient and aspect, soil and slope stability, erodibility and compactibility, vegetative cover, riparian areas, wetlands, and other factors that may affect the flood and sediment yield potential of the land. The careful control of skidding patterns serves to avoid onsite and downstream channel impacts, the build up of destructive runoff flows, and a reduction in soil productivity. Low ground pressure equipment is available for some applications. Three complementary methods of protecting soil and water resources by tractor skid trail design are: a.

End-Lining. This method involves winching the logs directly out with an umbrella pattern within sensitive areas (such as short steep slopes, wetlands and riparian areas) with a cable operated from outside the sensitive area. An arch may also be used to provide lift for the logs. In this manner, logs can be removed from the sensitive areas while avoiding encroachment by heavy equipment and associated site damage.

b.

Directional Felling. This method involves felling trees toward a predetermined skid pattern or angled upslope to reduce logging distance. This procedure facilitates an uncomplicated approach of the tractor operating between the log and the skid trail. Soil disturbance and compaction are sometimes increased on localized areas, but these can be mitigated and overall impacts are consequently lessened. The residual stand is protected and site impacts are minimized. Direction felling methods including feller/buncher, line or cable falling, and jacking of trees can be selected to fit site specific circumstances. Use of high flotation/low psi tractors.

c.

Implementation. The determination of ground loggable by conventional methods is performed by the interdisciplinary team during the Timber Sale Planning Process. These results are considered during the selection of silvicultural regeneration systems, logging methods, SWCPs and are used in determining the intensity of and restrictions for land disturbance activities. Tractor logging planned within wetlands and riparian areas should be ground verified by technical resource professionals during presale activities. Impacts from feller/bunchers must also be considered when appropriate. Provisions in the Timber Sale Contract specify the areas and SWCPs within which tractors can operate.

-44-

The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the provisions for sale contract and on the Sale Area Map. The certified Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. References: FSM 2524; Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18) and Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains and Appalachian Mountains; Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service -2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT1.1, BT6.422, BT6.424, BT6.6, BT6.7; Special Provisions CT6.401#; (Forest Service 2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 1, 21; Special Provisions 21c#, 21f#. 2.5 – PRACTICE. Riparian Area Management Objective - To minimize the adverse effects on Riparian Areas with prescriptions that manage nearby logging and related land disturbance activities. Explanation - The Riparian Area is not a zone of exclusion, but needs site-specific management to maintain the productivity and natural reforestation capability of the soil. It acts as (1) an effective filter and absorptive zone for sediment and other pollutants; (2) maintains shade; (3) protects aquatic and terrestrial riparian habitats; (4) promotes channel and streambank stability; (5) maintains floodplain function, (6) provides source for large woody debris, and (7) provides high levels of biotic diversity and habitats. As a preventive measure, roads, skid trails, landings, and other timber harvest facilities will be kept out of these areas when feasible or a prescribed distance from streams and wetlands. Factors such as stream classification, channel stability, sideslope steepness, slope stability, resources dependent on these areas, and standards, guidelines, and direction from Forest Plans and BMPs are considered in determining the management of activities and width of Riparian Areas. Fisheries habitat condition and its estimated response to the proposed timber sale are also evaluated. Implementation - The Riparian Area requirements are identified during the environmental analysis by the interdisciplinary team. The timber sale project is designed to include site specific SWCPs for the prevention of sedimentation and other stream and soil damage from logging activities. The environmental analysis will provide for planning of harvests to insure long-term health and revegetation of the Riparian Areas, while meeting shading, debris recruitment, and other management objectives. As appropriate, monitoring and evaluation will be identified in the environmental analysis documentation. The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion the provisions for management of the Riparian Areas in the Timber Sale Contract and on the Sale Area Map. The certified Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. References: FSM 2453, 2526, and 2471; NEPA; NFMA; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); SWCP 1.2, 1.5, 3.3, and 4.3; FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian Mountains; Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service - 2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT6.5, BT6.62; Special Provisions CT6.401#, CT6.402#, CT6.414#, CT6.5#, CT6.62#, CT6.63# (Forest Service - 2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 21, 30, 31; Special Provisions 21.2#, 21c#, 21d#, 21e#, 30a#, -45-

31a#: (Forest Service - 2400-4 contract) Standard Provisions 20; Special Provisions 7, 7.1a#, 8, 11, E#. 2.6 - PRACTICE. Wetland Management Objective - To avoid damage to the ground cover, soil, and water in wetlands. Explanation - This is primarily an administrative and preventive action. Unauthorized operation of vehicular or skidding equipment on wetlands designated on Sale Area Maps and marked on the ground is prohibited. Vehicular or skidding equipment shall not be used on wetlands except where roads, landings, and tractor roads are approved. When wetlands are subject to Section 404 of the CWA, the conditions of any silvicultural exemption, current COE national, regional or programmatical general permits or an individual permit will be followed along with any applicable BMPs. Implementation - The concerns and constraints mentioned above are set forth in Timber Sale Contract requirements. Damage to wetlands, stream courses, and riparian areas caused by unauthorized Purchaser's operations shall be repaired by the Purchaser in a timely and agreed manner to restore and prevent further damage. References: EO 11990, Protection of Wetlands, 36 CFR Parts 320 through 330; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); FEIS and ROD’s for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian Mountains; Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service - 2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT6.5, BT6.62; Special Provisions CT6.401#, CT6.402#, CT6.414#, CT6.5#, CT6.62#, CT6.63# (Forest Service - 2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 21, 30, 31; Special Provisions 21.2#, 21c#, 21d#, 21e#, 30a#, 31a#: (Forest Service - 2400-4 contract) Standard Provisions 20; Special Provisions 7, 7.1a#, 8, 11, E#. 2.7 - PRACTICE. Stream Channel/Streamcourse Protection Objectives - (a) To protect the natural flow of streams; (b) to provide unobstructed passage of stormflows; (c) to reduce sediment and other pollutants from entering streams; and (d) to restore the natural course of any stream as soon as practical, if the stream is diverted or otherwise impacted as a result of timber management activities, (e) to maintain channel integrity and stability for protection of aquatic habitat and other beneficial uses. Explanation - This SWCP employs administrative, preventive, and corrective measures to meet the objectives. This SWCP applies to all streams shown on the Sale Area Map or avoided with skid road location and other activities that the require coordination between the purchaser and sale administrator. The following points are fundamental to protecting stream channels:

-46-

1.

Location and method of stream crossings must be agreed to prior to construction. The location of skid trails, tractor roads, and temporary roads are agreed on by the Forest Service and the Purchaser. Temporary crossings shall not impound water, impede fish passage, or result in long-term degradation of water quality. Temporary crossings shall be removed and appropriate erosion control measures should be implemented/installed before the unit can be accepted by the Sale Administrator.

2.

All damage to a streamcourse caused by Purchaser's operations, including damage to banks and channel, shall be repaired to an acceptable condition.

3.

All project debris shall be removed from the streamcourse as specified in the contract provisions.

4.

When ground skidding or ground lead systems are employed, logs will normally be end-lined out of riparian areas. For some riparian soil types, dry season skidding may allow direct access with heavy equipment without causing excessive rutting or compaction. Equipment is permitted to enter these areas only at locations and times specified by contract provisions.

5.

Water bars or dips, drainage diversions, silt barriers (i.e., filter fabric fence, straw bales, windrow slash) and other erosion control structures will be located to prevent water and sediment from being channeled into directly into streamcourses, and to dissipate concentrated flows. Vegetated filter zones will be used to help absorb flow and filter sediments.

6.

Material from temporary road and skid trail stream crossings will be immediately removed and streambanks restored to an acceptable condition, as specified in the contract provisions.

7.

Logs or products shall be fully suspended above the ground when moved across streamcourses and channels designated for protection in the timber sale contract. Logs will not be yarded using ground lead within the channel banks. Partial suspension may be permitted under special circumstances and conditions within the channel banks if 1) the stream banks and riparian surface will have limited damage, 2) yarding will avoid rutting, excessive compaction, or streambank gouging and 3) primarily only move surface soil organic materials, which will be replaced with limited effects as a SWCP.

8.

Vegetation required to maintain acceptable water temperature ranges in streams shall not be removed or damaged during logging.

9.

Vegetation required to protect streambank stability shall not be disturbed.

10. Operations adjacent to and within stream channels shall be accomplished per the requirements of Section 404 of the CWA.

-47-

Implementation -The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Stream Channel/Streamcourse Protection in the contract and designate streams and/or areas on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water resource professionals should be consulted to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: 36 CFR Parts 320-330; FSM 2452, 2453, 2542, 2603, 8223; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); FEIS and ROD’s for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian Mountains; Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT6.5, BT6.62; Special Provisions CT6.401#, CT6.402#, CT6.414#, CT6.5#, CT6.62#, CT6.63# (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 21, 30, 31; Special Provisions 21.2#, 21c#, 21d#, 21e#, 30a#, 31a#: (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Standard Provisions 20; Special Provisions 7, 7.1a#, 8, 11, E#. 2.8 - PRACTICE. Suspended Log Yarding in Timber Harvesting Objective - To protect water quality and soil productivity and sensitive soil conditions from excessive disturbance and accelerated erosion in order to maintain the integrity of the riparian area and other sensitive soil and watershed areas. Explanation - Suspended log yarding includes all yarding systems that suspend logs either partially or totally off the ground. These systems include hi-lead, skyline, helicopter, and balloon yarders. These systems are used on steep or unstable slopes and in riparian areas where tractors cannot operate. These systems are designed to reduce soil disturbance by eliminating ground-based machinery. In most cases, these systems require fewer roads because of longer skidding distances. Fewer roads and less soil disturbance will result in less impact on the soil and water resource. In some cases, partial suspension of logs can be achieved with rubber tire skidders that have an arch or grapple support for one end log suspension. They generally can be used to limit soil disturbance and effects to primarily the main skid roads and trails. Implementation - Areas where suspended log yarding is to be used are determined and identified in the environmental analysis. The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Suspended Log Yarding in Timber Harvesting in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian Mountains; Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service - 2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT6.42; Special Provisions CT6.426#; (FS-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 21; Special Provision 21f#. -48-

2.9 - PRACTICE. Limiting the Operating Period of Timber Sale Activities Objective - To minimize soil erosion and sedimentation and loss of soil productivity by ensuring that the Purchaser conducts operations, including erosion control work, road maintenance, and so forth, in a timely manner, within the time period specified in the Timber Sale Contract. Explanation - Timber is purchased by individuals or companies who either harvest the timber themselves or contract the harvest to other parties. It is necessary to ensure that Purchasers and subcontractors understand and adhere to recommended SWCPs that were determined in the NEPA process and planning documents. This is accomplished by specifying the Purchaser's responsibilities in the Timber Sale Contract. Seldom is the NEPA and planning detail sufficient to handle all ground based specifics, so some implementation planning details and site adjustments are made in the field between the purchaser or his representative and the certified timber sale administrator. Standard Provision BT6.311 "Plan of Operation" in the Forest Service-2400-6T contract and Standard Provision 21 in the Forest Service-2400-3 contract requires a General Plan of Operations for all Timber Sale Contracts over 2 years in length. This provision states that the Purchaser must submit a general plan of operation which will specify planned periods for and methods of road construction, timber harvesting, completion of slash disposal, erosion control work, and other contractual requirements. Forest Service written approval of the Plan of operation is a prerequisite to commencement of the Purchaser's operation. Contract provisions may be used to limit the Purchaser's operations to specified periods of the year. Standard Provision BT6.6, "Erosion Prevention and Control" in the Forest Service-2400-6T contract and Standard Provision 32 in the Forest Service-2400-3 contract can be used to control operations when ground conditions are such that excessive damage to soil and water resources will result. Standard Provision BT6.31 "Plan of Operation" in the Forest Service-2400-6T contract and Standard Provision 21 in the Forest Service-2400-3 contract requires that the Purchaser shall provide an annual schedule of anticipated activities such as road maintenance and erosion control work. Implementation - Limited operating periods are identified and recommended during the environmental analysis by the interdisciplinary team. The Presale Forester prepares the contract to include the mandatory provisions of the Timber Sale Contract. The Purchaser must submit a general plan and annual plans to the Forest Service. The sale administrator reviews these plans for consistency with the intent of NEPA, BMPs and site specific conditions and recommends approval or adjustments. The Purchaser may commence operations only after written Forest Service approval of the general plan under BT6.311. References: FSM 2451 and 2453; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian Mountains; Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT6.31, BT6.311, BT6.6; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 21, 32. -49-

B. TIMBER SALE PREPARATION 2.10 - PRACTICE. Contract Preparation (New) Objective - To ensure that Timber Sale Contracts contain the required provisions to implement management and mitigation measures contained in NEPA decisions to protect soil and water resources. Explanation - This is an administrative and preventive practice. The Timber Sale Contract is prepared to include provisions for managing and protecting soil and water resources including: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Erosion Control Streamcourse Protection and Management Temporary Facilities Management Wetlands protection and Management Riparian Area Protection and Management Unstable Ground to Protect Areas requiring specialized logging techniques. Maintaining soil productivity.

Implementation - The Presale Forester is responsible for inclusion of the contract provisions for protecting and managing the soil and water resources. These provisions are selected based upon both field knowledge of conditions and NEPA analysis of environmental concerns and issues. Technical soil and water professionals should be consulted by the Presale Forester to help with decisions regarding provisions to be included in the contract. References: FSM 2500; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT5.12, BT5.2, BT6.3, BT6.4, BT6.5, BT6.6, BT6.7; Special Provisions CT5.12#, CT5.123#, CT6.222#, CT6.401#, CT6.414#, CT6.426#, CT6.5#, CT6.62#, CT6.63#, CT6.65, CT6.7#, CT6.71#; (Forest Service-24003 contract) Standard Provisions 1, 21, 30, 31, 33; Special Provisions 21.2#. 21b#, 21c#, 21d#, 21e#, 21f#, 24.1#, 30a#, 31a#, 33a#: (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Standard Provisions 1, 20; Special Provisions 6, 7, 7.1a#, 8, 10#, 11, 20a, C#, E#, F#. 2.11 - PRACTICE. Use of Sale Area Maps for Designating Soil and Water Resource Protection Needs Objective - To delineate the location of soil and water areas to be protected to ensure their recognition, proper consideration, and protection on-the-ground. Explanation - The following features are designated on the Sale Area map (and described in associated contract provisions), which is an integral part of the Timber Sale Contract. 1. 2. 3.

Location of stream courses to be protected: (perennial, intermittent and ephemeral). Wetlands and riparian areas (meadows, lakes, pot holes) to be protected. Boundaries of harvest units. -50-

4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.

Specified roads. Roads where log hauling is prohibited or restricted. Structural improvements. Areas with different skidding and yarding techniques. Other features required by Division "CT" Contract Provisions. Slash disposal treatments within or adjacent to riparian areas. Protection of special areas (unstable hillslopes, seeps, etc.). Directional felling.

Implementation - The Presale Forester, using Timber Sale Project coordination maps and NEPA documents, identifies and delineates these and other features on the sale area maps. References: FSM 2431.1-.14, 2471; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT1.1, BT5.12, BT6.5, BT6.62, Special Provisions CT5.12#, CT6.222#, CT6.401#, CT6.414#, CT6.426#, CT6.5#, CT6.62#, CT6.7#, CT6.71#; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 1, 21, 31; Special Provisions 21.2#. 21b#, 21c#, 21d#, 21e#, 21f#, 24.1#, 31a#, 33a#: (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Standard Provision 1; Special Provisions 7.1a#, 10#, 11, 20a, C#, E#, F#. 2.12 - PRACTICE. Nonrecurring Special Provisions For Soil and Water Quality Protection Objective - To exercise the option of inserting nonrecurring Special provisions into the Timber Sale Contract to protect soil and water resources, where standard provisions do not apply or are inadequate to protect watershed values. Explanation - Nonrecurring Special provisions are sometimes needed to meet management objectives on a particular sale area. They require Regional Forester approval and may only be included in the sale for which approval was given. This practice can be used for a variety of special situations that may occur on any timber sale. There are no standard or set provisions that can be referenced, since each Special provision is designed to meet a unique situation and is specific to one sale. Implementation -The need for nonrecurring provisions is identified during the Timber Sale Planning Process and environmental analysis by the interdisciplinary team. The Presale Forester prepares the non-recurring provision and submits it through Line Officers to the Regional Forester for approval. The Regional Forester ensures that the wording complements the Timber Sale Contract and returns it to the Forest Supervisor with approval. The non-recurring special provision is applied by the Sale Administrator to the specific circumstance in the same manner as any other contract provision. Reference: FSM 2432; Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18). C. HARVEST ADMINISTRATION 2.13 - PRACTICE. Pre-operations Meeting and Operating Plans -51-

Objective - To ensure contract provisions used to manage and protect soil and water resources are discussed with the timber purchaser prior to start of logging operations or road construction. Explanation - Purpose of the pre-operation meeting is to make sure that the timber purchaser has a clear understanding of the contract requirements and obligations including soil and water protection and management provisions required by the contract. Items to discuss include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Streamcourse Protection and Management Wetlands Protection and Management Riparian Area Protection and Management Construction and Maintenance of Temporary Facilities. Water Bar Construction and Maintenance Erosion Control Specifications Special Logging Restrictions Size and Type of Stream Crossings Including Bridges and Culverts. Soil Protection and Management

The purchaser is required to prepare a general plan of operations and annual operating schedule and present these to the Forest Service Representative. These plans should address special needs such as erosion control, construction and maintenance. Implementation - The Forest Service Representative is responsible for scheduling meeting with Timber purchaser; logging contractor, road construction contractor, Forest Service Sale Administration Team and as needed, technical soil and water resource professionals and technicians. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT6.31, BT6.311; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 21. 2.14 - PRACTICE. Harvest Administration Inspections Objective - To ensure that contract compliance is achieved by firm, fair and objective harvest administration that includes compliance with the provisions of the Timber Sale Contract to protect and manage soil and water resources. Explanation - Forest Service representative and Sale Administrator will maintain close inspections of the timber purchasers operations to ensure soil and water resource protection needs are met and items requiring Forest Service approval are accepted by the Sale Administrator. Sale Administrators receive periodic training and must maintain certification. Inspections will ensure that the sale is being operated in an acceptable manner by scheduling and performing a series of inspections or spot checks and formal, systematic inspections. Inspections by the timber sale administrator will be made during sale operations and following completion of timber removal. The inspections are documented in a daily diary or other reporting mechanism. Overall sale compliance is often reviewed by the District Ranger and Forest Sale Forester with any deficiencies brought to the attention of the Sale Administrator. Other field assessments or review may -52-

take place on a few selected sales through monitoring, technical assistance or established Forest or Regional review by specialists or interdisciplinary teams. The frequency of routine inspections will vary with local conditions, sale operations and sale complexity. Inspection should include compliance with: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Erosion control Location, construction and maintenance of temporary roads, skid trails and landings. Wetlands Protection and Management Riparian Area Protection and Management Road Maintenance

Implementation - The Timber Sale Administrator conducts and records the results of inspections and reports the results to the Forest Service Representative. Based on the results, the Timber Sale Administrator when appropriate, takes immediate action to attain compliance of the contract provisions or reports to the Forest Service Representative, requesting action. The results and actions taken are reported to the District Ranger. The District Ranger is responsible for the data and reports to be entered into the Forest database for analyses, and interpretation for the annual Forest Monitoring and Evaluation Report. References: 36 CFR 219.12(k); FSM 2450; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT6.36. 2.15 - PRACTICE. Limited Use Roads Objective - To ensure that the Timber Sale Contract contains direction for purchasers use of roads that have limited structural capacity. Explanation - Damage to roads that have limited structural capacity is less restrictive than for other National Forest Transportation System Roads. Rutting, chuck holes, and other deterioration of the travel way will not constitute damage unless such deterioration causes significant disturbance to the soil and water resources such as perched water tables or causes the loss or failure of road way features such as drainage ditches, dips, culverts or fill slopes. The timber sale contract special provisions allow the purchaser to place surface material on these roads to increase use efficiency and prevent soil and water resource damage while using these roads for timber haul. Implementation - The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Limited Use Roads in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water resource professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Special Provisions CT5.123#. -53-

2.16 - PRACTICE. Road Maintenance Objective - To ensure the contract provisions requiring prehaul, during haul and post haul road maintenance are properly administered to reduce or eliminate resource damage including soil and water resources. Explanation - Prehaul maintenance is used on roads for timber haul to replace or install culverts, rock crossing on stream courses, and other drainage structures to be in compliance with BMPs or SWCPs identified for the sale. A variety of factors may influence the type and timing of maintenance that is needed to achieve access needs and protection of resources. During haul maintenance requires the purchaser to repair damaged fills, culverts and bridges. Material from slides shall not be deposited where it will wash into streams. Damage to previously vegetated slopes shall be repaired by smoothing and applying seed, fertilize and mulch. Drainage ditches will be maintained with relief culverts or other features to assure adequate drainage. Ditches that empty directly into streams will receive special attention to limit their effects. Post haul maintenance may include removal of bridge or culverts, installing any needed road surface drainage dips or diversions, and seeding, fertilizing and mulching of roads to prevent erosion. Implementation - The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Road Maintenance in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water resource professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator for help with decisions regarding compliance. References: FSM 2450, 7700; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Transportation System Maintenance Handbook (FSH 7709.58); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT5.3; Special Provision CT5.31#; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 24; Special Provision 24.3#: (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Standard Provision 20; Special Provision 13#. 2.17 - PRACTICE. Modification of the Timber Sale Contract Objective - To modify the Timber Sale Contract, if new circumstances or conditions indicate that the timber sale will significantly disturb soil, water, or watershed values. Explanation - Situations that may result in environmental or resource damage sometimes develop or become apparent after selling a timber sale. When clearly necessary to prevent unacceptable damage to resources or to the environment, the CO may approve modifications that go beyond the original intent of the sale. Without action initiated by the CO or Line Officer, the Forest Service has no legal right to make unilateral modifications, or to prevent potential environmental or resource damage. If the CO cannot reach an agreement with the purchaser on a proposed modification, the CO must choose between continuing the contract as it is or submitting -54-

the contract to the Chief with a recommendation for cancellation. Consultation with forest specialists, State Forestry and Water Quality agencies may be appropriate where water quality damages are occurring, second opinion resource damage assessments are needed and the importance or priority for resolution is under question. Implementation - If monitoring results, contract inspections or other evidence indicates that planned activities on an existing timber sale will significantly disturb the soil and water resources, the Forest Service Representative will request, through the CO, Regional Forester's approval for a resource environmental modification. The documentation must be in the form of an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement. The analysis documentation must evaluate the proposed provisions or changes, and if necessary provide other alternatives. The CO must answer specific questions as a part of the analysis, including: what specific problems cannot be solved under the present contract such as adverse visual impact, erosion, wildlife, water quality, silvicultural, or regeneration problems. Following identification of each specific item involved, a subject matter specialist should quantify the damage (costs) and benefits into value terms. References: FSM 2453; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15; Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT8.3; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 27; (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Standard Provision 7, 36 CFR 223.112, 36 CFR 223.113. 2.18 - PRACTICE. Partial Cancellation/Full Cancellation of Timber Sale Contracts Objective - To cancel timber sale contracts when other means of securing compliance are not effective or when further operation of the sale shall result in substantial and unacceptable environmental degradation or resource damage. Explanation - The NEPA of 1969 declares a national policy "to promote efforts which will prevent or eliminate damage to the environment". The act further provides, "In order to carry out the policy as set forth in this Act, it is the continuing responsibility of the Federal Government to use all practical means consistent with other essential considerations of national policy to improve and coordinate Federal plans, functions, programs, and resources to the end that the Nation may ... attain the widest range of beneficial uses of the environment without degradation, risk to health or safety, or other undesirable and unintended consequences". When timber sale contract operations cause serious degradation of the environment or resource damage, and when modification alternatives are not available or acceptable, the contract may be cancelled. Implementation - The Forest Service may cancel timber sale contracts by agreement when the Forest Service can show that such action is advantageous or not prejudicial to the interests of the United States. Some of the conditions that justify such cancellation are: 1. Operation of the sale would result in significant environmental damage. 2. The remaining timber should remain uncut to serve some better use.

-55-

The Forest Service may cancel timber sale contracts and permits under 36 CFR 223.116(a)(5) to prevent environmental degradation or resource damage. Only the Chief shall cancel contracts under this authority. When considering contract cancellation cases, the CO shall thoroughly analyze the advantages and disadvantages to the United States. When continued operation might result in serious environmental or resource damage, an attempt must be made to reach agreement on an environmental modification to prevent the damage. Only if an acceptable modification cannot be achieved should cancellation be considered. Under this authority, cancellation must come from the Chief. References: FSM 2453; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Special Provision CT8.24; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 27; (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Standard Provisions 13, 36 CFR 223.116. FACILITIES MANAGEMENT 2.19 - PRACTICE. Log Landing Location and Design Objective - To locate landings in such a way as to minimize soil erosion and water quality degradation. Explanation - This practice is both administrative and preventive. Location of all landing and clearing limits shall be agreed to by the Forest Service and Purchaser prior to construction. The following criteria are used in evaluating landings: 1. The cleared or excavated size of landings shall not exceed that needed for safe and efficient skidding, decking, and loading operations. 2. Where a choice exists, landing locations are selected which involve the least amount of excavation and the least erosion potential. 3. Locate landings so that felled timber lying between drainages can be skidded to the landing without crossing channels or impacting wetlands or riparian areas. If yarding across streams or sensitive wetland or riparian areas is necessary, locate landings so that full log suspension is maintained over these areas. 4. Landings are located where the least number of skid roads are required and side cast will neither enter drainages nor damage other sensitive areas. In order to require the excavated materials and logging debris to be end-hauled, a non-recurring special provision in the contract will be necessary. 5. If possible, landings are positioned such that the skid road approach will be nearly level. 6. Locate landings to minimize the number of tractor roads entering a given landing. -56-

7. Locate landings so that logging slash does not accumulate in stream courses. 8. Landings are shaped to drain in a planned direction and manner, with surface water diversions to minimize the concentration of stormwater, erosion, and sediment delivery to stream courses. 9. Locate and design landings to minimize risk of mass movements (slope failure) originating at the landing. 10. Landings should avoid streamside management zone (SMZ), riparian areas, floodplains, and wetlands. Implementation - In special problematic circumstances, general landing vicinities should be designated on the sale area map by the Presale Forester and Certified Sale Administrator. Otherwise, landing locations are chosen by the purchaser in operation plans and must be agreed to by the sale administrator. The sale administrator can negotiate with the Purchaser's representative to select mutually acceptable landing locations. Should agreement not be reached, modification of the Timber Sale Contract may be necessary in order to ensure the protection of the soil and water resources. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT6.422; Special Provisions CT6.401#; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 30; Special Provision 21c#: (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Special Provisions E#. 2.20 - PRACTICE. Temporary Road and Skid Trail Location and Design Objective - To locate and design temporary roads and skid trails in such a way as to minimize soil and water degradation. Explanation - This practice is both administrative and preventive. The location and clearing widths shall be agreed to by the Forest Service and purchaser prior to contract implementation. The following criteria are used in location and design of temporary roads and skid trails. 1.

Temporary roads shall avoid streams, SMZs and traversing steep slopes when access is available through using ridges or upper slopes is available. In moderate to flat terrain, follow the general upper slope contour insofar as practical, undulating with the topography with dips and reverse grades to encourage natural drainage from the road construction. Maximum grades should not to exceed the percent identified in the NEPA document or applicable Forest Standards or State BMPs. Construction shall include frequent broad-based dips or breaks in grade as necessary to remove runoff from the road. Clearing width shall not exceed that needed for safe and efficient operations, and the travel way shall not exceed a number of designated feet except at turnouts and landings. Crossings are selected for low impacts and shall be located perpendicular to any stream or drainage.

-57-

2.

Concurrent with Temporary Road construction, Purchaser shall install straw or hay bales, silt fence or brush/slash barriers at the base of the fill along Temporary Roads within specified distances of streamcourses specified in the contract and at other sensitive areas shown on Sale Area Map.

3.

At streamcourse crossings, cut and fill slopes and other disturbed areas within 25 feet or other specified slope distance of the streamcourse will be protected by seeding and mulching within a specified time frame.

4.

As necessary to attain stabilization of roadbed, and cut and fillslopes of temporary roads, Purchaser shall employ such measures as outsloping, revegetation, mulching, drainage dips, water spreading ditches, culverts and silt barriers. Unless otherwise agreed, cut banks and fill slopes shall be sufficiently sloped to facilitate revegetation.

5.

Purchaser shall place and maintain adequate depth of gravel or crushed stone on all temporary Roads at the following locations as specified in the contract. The locations are approaches to surfaced roads for a specified distance in the contract back from the surfaced road; streamcourse crossings for a specified distance on either side of the streamcourse; grades exceeding a specified percent; grades exceeding a specified percent on designated soil types; broad based and rolling dips, moist sites and fills over culverts.

6.

Purchaser shall maintain all erosion control structures such as silt barriers, waterspreading ditches, and broad based dips in a functional condition during Purchaser's Operations. Purchaser shall stabilize and close to vehicular traffic all Temporary Roads prior to periods of inactivity.

Implementation - The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Temporary Road and Skid Trail Location and Design in the contract and designation on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water resource professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT6.422; Special Provisions CT6.63#; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 30; Special Provision 30a#: (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Special Provision E#.

-58-

2.21 – PRACTICE. Streamcrossings on Temporary Roads Objective - To prevent temporary roads from damaging streamcourses, degrading water quality, or obstructing fish passage. Explanation - Culverts, temporary bridges, or low water crossings will be required on temporary roads at all locations where it is necessary to cross perennial, intermittent and scoured ephemeral streamcourses. Such measures shall be located, designed and installed to provide unobstructed stream flow and fish passage, and to minimize damage to streamcourses. The number of crossings shall be kept to the minimum needed for access. Channel crossings should generally be as low impact and perpendicular to streamcourses as possible. Streambank excavation shall be kept to the minimum needed for use of the crossings. Erosion and sediment control measures will be applied to the approaches and adjacent cut and fill slopes. When the temporary bridges and culverts have served their purpose and are no longer needed they shall be removed. Unless otherwise agreed, this should be done as soon as practical and prior to seasonal high stream flows. Fill associated with these measures shall also be removed. Implementation - Project location and SWCP criteria are developed by the interdisciplinary team during the NEPA process. Those developed by the Purchaser will be reviewed and approved by the Sale Administrator or Forest Service Representative. Forest Service supervisors are responsible for insuring that In-Service projects meet management objectives and requirements. References: 33 CFR Parts 320-330; FSM 2526, 2527; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT6.5; Special Provision CT6.5#; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 30, 31; Special Provisions 30a#, 31a#; (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Special Provision E#. 2.22 - PRACTICE. Timing of Construction of Temporary Facilities Objective - To minimize erosion by conducting operations during low runoff periods. Explanation - Erosion and sedimentation are directly related to runoff. Equipment shall not be operated when ground conditions are such that significant disturbance will result. Conditions are identified by the Sale Administrator with assistance from technical resource staffs as needed. Temporary erosion control measures may be required to prevent, control, and mitigate erosion and sedimentation. In addition, it is important to keep permanent erosion control work as current as practical with ongoing operations. Construction of drainage facilities and performance of other contract work that will contribute to the control of erosion and sedimentation shall be carried out concurrent with ground disturbing operations or as soon thereafter as practical. Limitation of the amount of area being graded at a site at any one time, and minimization of the time that an area is barren should be a consideration in contract -59-

preparation. Erosion control work must be kept current when construction of temporary roads, skid trails and landings occurs outside of the normal operating season. 1.

Provision BT6.6 "Erosion Prevention and Control" can be used to suspend operations when ground conditions are such that significant disturbance (see Section 05) will result.

2.

If construction must proceed during unsatisfactory weather conditions, measures to minimize sediment production and delivery shall be installed.

3.

Roadway fills that have settled or are eroding shall be restored promptly to prevent additional soil erosion.

4.

When potentially unstable slopes are identified, soil and water resource professionals will assist in conducting stability analysis.

Implementation - Site-specific criteria for erosion control are developed by an interdisciplinary team during the environmental analysis. Potentially sensitive or unstable areas are identified. Mitigation measures are developed and incorporated into contract provisions by considering applicable Forest S&Gs, State BMPs, research results and through consultation with technical resource staffs. The certified Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT6.6; Special Provisions CT6.63#, CT6.66; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 21, 32; Special Provision 30a#; (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Special Provision 6. 2.23 - PRACTICE. Log Landing Erosion Prevention and Control Objective - To reduce the impacts of erosion and subsequent sedimentation from log landings through the use, of mitigating measures. Explanation -This practice employs administrative, preventive, and corrective controls to meet the objective. Timber Sale Contract requirements provide for erosion prevention and control measures on all landings. Provisions are made in the Timber Sale Contract for landings to have proper drainage. After landings have served the Purchaser's purpose, the Purchaser shall ditch or slope the landings to permit the drainage and dispersion of water. Provisions are also made for revegetation. Other provisions may include scarifying, disking, smoothing and sloping, construction of drainage ditches, terraces or diversions, prevention of water draining off roads from reaching a landing, spreading slash, covering with wood chips, or applying straw mulch. Unless agreed otherwise, cut and fill banks around landings shall be sloped to remove overhangs and otherwise minimize erosion. The specific work needed on each landing will depend on the actual ground conditions.

-60-

Implementation - The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Log Landing Erosion Prevention and Control in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water resource professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT6.6, BT6.64; Special Provision CT6.601#; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 21, 32; Special Provision 32a#; (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Special Provisions 6, 6.1a#. 2.24 - PRACTICE. Erosion Control on Temporary Roads and Skid Trails Objective - To protect water quality by minimizing erosion and sedimentation derived from temporary roads and skid trails. Explanation - This practice employs preventive controls to reach the objective. The Timber Sale Contract requires the installation of erosion control measures such as waterbars, cross ditches and seeding on skid trails, tractor roads, and temporary roads. Areas in need of erosion control measures are designated on-the-ground as logging and construction of temporary access progresses. Implementation - Location of all erosion control SWCPs are designated on-the-ground by the Timber Sale Administrator. The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Erosion Control on Temporary Roads and Skid Trails in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water resource professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with design features or decisions regarding compliance. The Purchaser is obligated to complete and maintain erosion control work as specified in contract provisions. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT6.6, BT6.63, BT6.65; Special Provision CT6.601#; CT6.63#, CT6.65 (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 21, 32; Special Provisions 30a#, 32a#; (Forest Service2400-4 contract) Special Provisions 6, 6.1a#. 2.25 - PRACTICE. Erosion Prevention and Control Measures During Timber Sale Operations Objective - To ensure that the Purchaser's operations shall be conducted to minimize soil erosion and water quality degradation. Explanation - Timber is purchased by individuals or companies who either harvest the timber themselves or contract harvest to other parties. It is necessary to ensure that purchasers understand and adhere to practices that protect soil and water resources. These practices are determined as part of the Timber Sale Planning Process. The -61-

responsibility of the purchaser to implement these practices is specified in the timber sale contract. Implementation - Equipment shall not be operated when significant disturbance to the soil and water resources will result. The kinds and intensity of control work done by Purchaser shall be adjusted to ground and weather conditions and the need for controlling runoff and protecting soil productivity. Erosion control work shall be kept current immediately preceding expected seasonal periods of precipitation or runoff. If the Purchaser fails to do erosion control work prior to any seasonal period of precipitation or runoff, the Forest Service may temporarily assume responsibility for the work. If the purchaser fails to do the erosion control work in a timely manner, unencumbered deposits may be used to complete the work. If there are no unencumbered deposits, the cost of the work will be billed to the purchaser. The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Erosion Prevention and Control Measures during Timber Sale operations in the contract and designed on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: FSM 2452, 2522; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract); Standard Provisions BT6.6, BT6.63, BT6.64, BT6.65, BT6.66; Special Provisions CT6.601#; CT6.63#, CT6.65, CT6.66 (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provisions 21, 32; Special Provisions 30a#, 32a#; (Forest Service2400-4 contract) Special Provisions 6, 6.1a#. 2.26 - PRACTICE. Revegetation of Areas Disturbed by Harvest Activities Objective - To establish a vegetative cover on significantly disturbed areas to prevent erosion and sedimentation. Explanation - To prevent erosion, the Purchaser shall take appropriate stabilization actions and establish a vegetative cover on all significantly disturbed areas. This SWCP is applied as a contract specification where it is expected that disturbed soils in parts of the sale area will require vegetative cover for stabilization and the problems will not be mitigated by other contract provisions. Implementation - An estimate of the need is included in the environmental analysis and timber sale appraisal. The Forest Service shall designate on-the-ground the disturbed soils, such as landings, skid trails and temporary roads, so there is not question with the contractor what must be treated and the placement of the measures. The Timber Sale Contract Provisions provide direction as to soil preparation and the application of suitable seed mixtures, mulch, and fertilizer, and the timing of such work. When the primary objective is erosion control, the vegetation selected should be appropriate for that use. Consistent with Regional advice, invasive exotic plants will not be used for this work. Native plants will be used when applicable, and species on the -62-

Category 1 Invasive Exotic Species List will not be used, and species on the Category 1 List will be avoided if reasonable alternatives exist. It is the responsibility of the Sale Administrator to ensure that revegetation work is done correctly and in a timely manner. The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Revegetation of Areas Disturbed by Harvest Activities in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water professionals should be consulted by the sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15), Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18), and Soil Management Handbook (FSH 2509.18; Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT6.6; Special Provisions CT6.601#; CT6.63#, (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 32; Special Provisions 30a#, 32a#; (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Special Provisions 6, 6.1a#. 2.27 - PRACTICE. Erosion Control Structure Maintenance Objective - To ensure that constructed erosion control structures are stabilized and working effectively. Explanation - Erosion control structures such as water bars, broad based and rolling dips, water diversions and cross ditches are only effective when they are in good repair and stable condition. After construction, seeding, planting, fertilizing, mulching and/or armoring, erosion control structures should be inspected and maintained to ensure adequate establishment of vegetation and protection from damage by subsequent harvest activities. Implementation - During the period of the Timber Sale Contract, the Purchaser shall provide maintenance of soil erosion control structures constructed by the Purchaser until they become stabilized, but not for more than one year after their construction. After 1 year, erosion control work is accomplished through Watershed Improvement Programs. The Forest Service may agree to perform such structure maintenance under BT.4.225 (Cooperative Deposits), if requested by the Purchaser, subject to agreement on rates. If the Purchaser fails to do seasonal maintenance work, the Forest Service may assume the responsibility and charge the Purchaser accordingly. The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Erosion Control Structure Maintenance in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Sale Preparation Handbook (FSH 2409.18); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT6.6, BT6.66, BT6.67; Special Provisions CT6.63#, -63-

CT6.66 (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 32; (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Special Provision 6. 2.28 - PRACTICE. Acceptance of Timber Sale Erosion Control Measures Before Sale Closure Objective - To ensure the adequacy of required erosion control work on timber sales. Explanation - SWCPs shall be inspected prior to payment unit acceptance and after 1 year to determine whether they continue to be effective. Periodic inspections shall be performed through out the duration of the timber sale, but particularly after severe storm or drought events and as the payment unit nears completion. These inspections are to determine: 1) compliance with contract standards. 2) the adequacy of the planned work, 3) the needed maintenance, 4) the effectiveness of SWCPs used and 5) the necessity for modifying present SWCPs . The results of these inspections shall be documented and reported, including the actions taken. Implementation - "Acceptable" erosion control means only minor deviation from established standards, provided no major or lasting impact is caused to soil and water resources. Sale Administrators will not accept, as complete, erosion control measures that fail to meet these criteria. The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Acceptance of Timber Sale Erosion Control Measures Before Sale Closure in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT6.36; (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 21; (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Standard Provision 18. 2.29 - PRACTICE. Closing , Decommissioning or Obliteration of Temporary Roads and Skid Trails Objective - To reduce sediment generated from temporary roads and skid trails and return land to production by closing, decommissioning or obliterating them at the completion of its intended use. Explanation -Temporary roads are constructed for a specific short-term purpose, usually less than 1 year, for example: logging spurs on a timber sale, roads for gravel sources, borrow pits and quarries, and so forth. In order to prevent continued low level casual use, such roads are obliterated at the completion of their intended use. Due to short-term nature of temporary roads, continued maintenance funds cannot be used for work on temporary roads. However, these roads may be reopened for future management needs to avoid impacting other areas. Temporary roads that are allowed to remain in use beyond their prescribed time are subject to continued, uncorrected damage, may include stream crossing impacts and the unmaintained structures can become chronic sediment sources. -64-

Effective closure, decommissioning, or obliteration is generally achieved through a combination of the following measures: 1.

Road effectively drained and blocked.

2.

Temporary culverts and bridges removed and natural drainage configuration reestablished.

3.

Road returned to resource production through revegetation (grass, browse, or trees). Invasive, exotic species are not used.

4.

Sideslopes reshaped and stabilized.

Implementation - For timber sales, temporary road closure, stabilization and removal of temporary structures are the responsibility of the Timber Purchaser. The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for obliteration of Temporary Roads and Skid Trails in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provisions BT6.63, BT6.65; Special Provision CT6.63# (Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 30; Special Provision 30a#, (Forest Service-2400-4 contract) Special Provision 8. 2.30 - PRACTICE. Temporary Roads to Remain Open Objective - To protect soil and water resources when temporary roads remain open past the Timber Sale operation to provide access for post sale activities. Explanation - Provisions are available in the Timber Sale Contract to not close and revegetate temporary roads that provide access to timber sale areas until post sale activities such as reforestation or wildlife habitat improvement activities are completed. Implementation - Roads to remain open for short periods beyond the timber sale may need to be addressed specifically in the by the interdisciplinary team in the NEPA document, SAI plans and annual funding requests. The purchaser is responsible for constructing water bars and/or cross ditches, but not revegetation of the road surfaces if traffic is expected to continue. Water bars and cross ditches can be damaged in post sale activities. The cost of revegetation work and refurbishing of water bars and cross drains must be collected in SAI plans in the activity code for which the road is being kept open. Maintenance of erosion control, road drainage and road obliteration is handled with SAI activities for up to 5 years following sale closure. Except in rare instances, extended use roads are not a temporary road and may need design adjustments including properly sized culverts, permanent drainage structures, regular maintenance, and perhaps surfacing materials. The activity responsible for -65-

continuing or extended use is responsible for any road reconstruction, maintenance, and erosion control activities. Under these circumstances, roads must be surfaced with aggregate, have adequate surface drainage, culverts, and exposed soils maintained in effective vegetation cover, if being used regularly by vehicles. The Presale Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the contract provisions for Temporary Roads to Remain Open in the contract and designated on the Timber Sale Area Map. The certified Timber Sale Administrator is responsible for contract compliance during harvest operations. Technical soil and water professionals should be consulted by the Sale Administrator to help with decisions regarding design of permanent structures and compliance. References: 36 CF2 223.27; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Renewable Resource Uses for Knutson-Vandenberg (K-V) Fund Handbook (FSH 2409.19); Timber Sale Contract Provisions: (Forest Service-2400-6T contract) Standard Provision BT6.631; Forest Service-2400-3 contract) Standard Provision 24. E. SITE PREPARATION AND REFORESTATION 2.31 - PRACTICE. Revegetation of Surface Disturbed Areas Objective - To protect water quality by minimizing soil erosion. Explanation - This practice is used to stabilize the surface of disturbed areas by establishing vegetation. The factors evaluated to determine suitable species are soil fertility, slope, aspect, landtype characteristics, soil water holding capacity, climatic factors, species competition, vegetation species characteristics, and project objectives. Regionally native species are preferred, however if non-native species are used for revegetation, their ability to compete with and/or displace native species should be considered. Species listed as Category 1 on the Region 8 Invasive, Exotic Plant List will not be used, and careful review will be made of circumstances before using Category 2 Species. These are field determinations and office interpretations made by an interdisciplinary team. Implementation - The identification of disturbed areas and revegetation species mix will be determined during the NEPA process. The responsible Line Officer assigns specific individuals to execute the project. Projects are subsequently monitored to assess the revegetation effectiveness, and need for follow-up action. References: EO 13148, Executive Memorandum in Federal Register v59, No. 161, 2080 Region 8 letter of May 18, 2001; FSM 2522, 2472, and 7721; Silvicultural Practices Handbook (FSH 2409.17).

-66-

2.32 - PRACTICE. Soil and Water Protection During Mechanical Site Preparation Objective - To prevent removal or severe disruption of the productive surface soil and to minimize losses from erosion and sedimentation during mechanical site preparation. Explanation - Areas to be mechanical site prepared should receive minimize soil disturbance consistent with methods of stand establishment and requirements of approved silvicultural practices. Site preparation contracts will contain adequate provisions to protect soil and water. As mentioned, the information in this Guide should be adjusted when necessary to fit site specific conditions and be consistent with BMPs, Forest Standards and Guides. This includes contour equipment operation, placement of windrows, soil moisture conditions restrictions, restrictions on size or type of equipment, and other items demanded by individual situations. Mitigation measures include: 1.

Only mowing, chopping, shearing, ripping, and scarifying are used on sustained slopes over 15 percent. No mechanical equipment is used on sustained slopes over 35 percent.

2.

Mechanical site preparation is not done on sustained slopes over 20 percent with erodible or failure-prone soils.

3.

To limit soil compaction, no mechanical equipment is used on plastic soils when the water table is within 12 inches of the surface, or when soil moisture exceeds the plastic limit. Soil moisture exceeds the plastic limit if the soil can be rolled to pencil size without breaking or crumbling.

4.

Mechanical equipment is operated so that furrows and soil indentations are aligned on the contour (with grades under 5 percent).

5.

Bedding is done only on level, wet sites, and only when needed to ensure early stand establishment, survival and growth of managed trees. Beds must have an initial height no greater than 15 inches and blend with the natural landform. Periodic breaks in the beds are often needed to maintain more natural surface drainage conditions. Consider Brache Scarifier with mounder attachment as a less intense alternative to bedding where appropriate.

6.

Mechanical equipment is not allowed in any defined stream channel except to cross at designated points, and may not expose more than 10 percent mineral soil in filter strips along lakes, perennial or intermittent springs, and streams, wetlands, or watersource seeps. The strip's width in feet is at least 30 plus 1.5 times the percent slope. Soil and debris are not deposited in lakes, streams, wetlands, springs, or seeps.

7.

Maintain a filter strip along each side of perennial, intermittent streams and within 25 feet of scoured ephemeral channels. Unless otherwise formalized in Forest Plans or State BMPs, use filter strip criteria for the Appalachian Forests for all Districts except the Coastal Plain Ranger Districts. Guidance in the Coastal Plain includes criteria from Forest Plans, CZMA, and BMPs. Areas adjacent to unscoured ephemeral -67-

streams can be treated if the soils are not wetlands, steep, subject to excessive compaction or erosion, and activity will not activate scouring within channels. Equipment activity and soil displacement, compaction and exposure held to a minimum. When needed, erosion control practices are applied to the extent necessary to prevent erosion and sediment delivery to streams. 8.

Operate equipment on contour as much as possible. Keep clearing strips long and parallel to ridgetop to reduce machine turning and gouging. Where appropriate, allow for breaks in activities to maintain hydrology and reduce other resource impacts. Avoid clearing uphill on steeper grades to prevent channelization in tractor tracks.

9.

Keep cutting blades sharp to prevent uprooting of trees and unnecessary soil disturbance.

10. Machine-plant on contour for maximum erosion protection. 11. Repair all watershed damage caused by the site preparation, such as restoration of damaged roads, areas exceeding soil exposure guides, sources of erosion or sedimentation, and removal of debris from stream channels. 12. Activities in wetlands will not be undertaken to convert or alter soil, plants or hydrology to non-wetland types. Implementation - The silviculturalist is responsible for the inclusion of the provision for protecting soil and water during mechanical site preparation and for location on the contract map of areas needing special protection. The CO representative is responsible for contract compliance during the site preparation operation. Technical resource professionals should be consulted by the silviculturalist and CO representative to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: FSM 2472, 2522; Silvicultural Practices Handbook (FSH 2409.17); FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian Mountains. 2.33 - PRACTICE. Soil Protection Ruring Raking and Windrowing Objective - To prevent removal or severe disruption of the productive surface soil and to minimize losses from erosion from raking and windrowing. Explanation - Windrowing is a common method of slash treatment removal and may include some degree of surface scarification that develops from the practices or is included as site preparation for planting. On slopes, the material should be windrowed on the contour to act as a filter barrier that catches sediment and detains runoff water. Periodic breaks are needed in some circumstances to allow for normal hydrology or access. Great care must be taken to require a rootrake with ample teeth to minimize soil disturbance to preserve the surface soil layer during the windrowing operation.

-68-

1.

Windrows and piles are spaced no more than 200 feet apart to limit soil exposure, soil compaction, and nutrient loss from piling and raking. Windrows are aligned on the contour.

2.

When piling, at least 80 percent of the area must retain some ground cover of litter and duff, and soil must not be displaced by piling rakes or blade.

3.

Mechanical equipment is not allowed in any defined stream channel except to cross at designated points, and may not expose more than 10 percent mineral soil in filter strips along lakes, perennial, intermittent or scoured ephemeral streams, springs, wetlands, or water-source seeps. Unless some other guidance has been formally accepted, the strip's width in feet is at least 30 plus 1.5 times the percent slope. Soil and debris are not deposited in lakes, streams, wetlands, springs, or seeps. Adjustments in guided are made to prevent soil loss and sedimentation to streams.

4.

Windrow only where the need and benefits are clearly justified. This involves the planned method of reforestation. Hand planting or machine planting with V-blade equipped machine will require little or no piling unless the site contains many heavy tops or sheared stems too dense to penetrate.

5.

When downed material must be piled especially from storm damage, a variety of watershed issues including soil exposure, compaction, displacement, erosion, sedimentation, fire hazards, etc. need consideration. When used, windrows are normally applied along the contour. Windrows can sometimes help retard overland flow of water and to act as a filter to trap sediment.

Implementation - Recommendations on slash windrowing are identified during the NEPA process. The silviculturalist is responsible for inclusion of the provisions for protecting soil and water during the raking and windrowing operation and for locating on the contract map, areas needing special protection. The CO representative is responsible for contract compliance during the operation. Technical resource professionals should be consulted by the silviculturalist and CO representative to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: FSM 2520; 2530 2472; Silvicultural Practices Handbook (FSH 2409.17); see "Best Management Practice" Definition (pg 21); FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains and Appalachian Mountains. F. TIMBER STAND IMPROVEMENT 2.34 - PRACTICE. Protection of Soil and Water During Mechanical Operations Objective - To ensure protection of soil and water resources during mechanical operations for timber stand improvement. Explanation - Mechanical methods are used to maintain or increase the growth rate, health, and species composition, or to improve the quality of the stands of timber for other uses. Mechanical methods such as small choppers or bush hogs pulled by a tractor or more -69-

sophisticated equipment, such as hydro axes, are used for pre-commercial thinning to achieve the objectives for timber stand improvement. The following mitigation measures include: 1.

Prompt revegetation is done if treatments leave insufficient ground cover to control erosion by the end of the first growing season.

2.

Only mowing, chopping, shearing, ripping, and scarifying are used on sustained slopes over 15 percent. No mechanical equipment is used on sustained slopes over 35 percent.

3.

To limit soil compaction, no mechanical equipment is used on plastic soils when the water table is within 12 inches of the surface, or when soil moisture exceeds the plastic limit. Soil moisture exceeds the plastic limit if the soil can be rolled to pencil size without breaking or crumbling.

4.

Mechanical equipment is operated so that furrows and soil indentations are aligned on the contour (with grades under 5 percent).

5.

Mechanical equipment is not allowed in any defined stream channel except to cross at designated points, and may not expose more than 10 percent mineral soil in filter strips along lakes, perennial or intermittent springs and streams, wetlands, or watersource seeps. The strip's width in feet is at least 30 plus 1.5 times the percent slope. Soil and debris are not deposited in lakes, streams, wetlands, springs, or seeps.

6.

Activities in wetlands will not be undertaken to convert or alter soil, plants or hydrology to non-wetland types.

Implementation - The Silviculturist is responsible for inclusion of the provisions for protecting the soil and water resources during the raking and windrowing operation and for locating on the contract map areas needing special protection. The CO representative is responsible for contract compliance during the operation. Technical resource professionals should be consulted by the silviculturist and CO representative to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: FSM 2520, 2530, 2476; Silvicultural Practices Handbook (FSH 2409.17) and Soil Management Handbook (FSH 2509.18); FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains, and Appalachian Mountains. 2.35 - PRACTICE. Protection of Soil and Water During Fertilization Objective - To minimize impacts to water quality in stream systems and lakes within and adjacent to areas being fertilized.

-70-

Explanation - Fertilization is a technique used to improve the growth rates of primarily pine trees. However, other trees and vegetation may be the primary beneficiaries of some applications. Fertilizers are generally designed to increase nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus within the soil. Fertilizers for the most part reside in the soil where they are available for plant uptake; however, some percent of these nutrients may be washed off into streams during rainfall or dissolved into the groundwater and eventually come out in surface flows. Concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium within surface waters increase the growth of aquatic vegetation, particularly within lakes. Excessive levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in surface and groundwater can be harmful to fish, wildlife, and human users. High nutrient levels within lake waters cause undesirable vegetative growth in the lake and reduce the "life" of the lake through eutrophication. Fertilizers should be applied at manufacturer recommended rates, or less. Direct application of fertilizers to surface stream and lake waters should be avoided unless specifically recommended by the interdisciplinary team and consistent with applicable regulations such as 401 State Water Quality Certification. Nutrient concentrations in surface water must not exceed State and Federal water quality standards. Implementation - Project location, application rates and frequency, and any needed mitigation measures for fertilization projects are determined by the interdisciplinary team during the NEPA process. Direct involvement or consultation with soil scientist, hydrologist, fishery biologist and others would be necessary when apply fertilizers to stream or lake waters. Pre- and post fertilization soil and water quality monitoring should be done to evaluate nutrient concentrations in the soil and water. Specific guidance is also found in State BMP, Mitigation Measures, Forest Plan Standards, and Guides. The Silviculturist is responsible for inclusion of the provisions for protecting the soil and water during the fertilization operation and for location on the contract map, any areas need special protection. The CO representative is responsible for contract compliance during the operation. Technical resource professionals should be consulted by the silviculturist and CO representative to help with decisions regarding compliance. References: Federal CWA (Public Law 95-217); CZMA (Public Law 92-583); State Water Quality Standard Regulations; State Drinking Water Regulations EPA - Quality Criteria for Water, 1976.

-71-

CHAPTER 3 ROADS AND TRAILS

-72-

1.

ROADS AND TRAILS. Transportation systems are developed to serve the transportation needs of NFS lands and resource management programs. Transportation planning is a complex process that assures that roads and trails are planned, located, designed, constructed, and maintained to meet these long-term forest management needs and objectives. General objectives are developed by legislation, policy, and directives and addressed in Forest Plans. Ongoing Forest Roads Analyses also address many aspects of current road conditions and needs within watershed or analysis area boundaries. Transportation planning is normally conducted on a Forest or area wide basis with the objective of identifying short and long-range transportation needs. Transportation planning also includes the operation and maintenance of the existing system. Specific objectives are developed by an interdisciplinary team during the NEPA process in project planning. Alternative transportation plans are developed to consider management objectives and resource information. The interdisciplinary team reviews these alternatives and makes recommendations for road design criteria, corridor locations, use of existing roads, upgrading inadequate roads and road closure or decommissioning to achieve resource or long term needs. The environmental effects, economic analysis, and recommendations from the interdisciplinary team are considered prior to selecting a preferred alternative by the Line officer. Additional interdisciplinary team input may be required in the design phase to ensure meeting the management objectives. Due to the linear nature of these facilities, there are instances when avoidance of streams, wetlands and other sensitive waters cannot be achieved and section 404 and 401 permits maybe required. During road construction, the Contract Administrators assure that the project is constructed according to contract specifications and drawings. Interdisciplinary team members may be requested to review proposed design modifications during construction. Periodic reviews of selected projects are made by technical specialists or interdisciplinary team members to evaluate the construction performance, the effectiveness of specific design features or treatments to control erosion and sediment, and the appropriateness of the level of maintenance. These reviews provide information used to modify SWCPs, BMPs or Forest S&Gs for roads and trails. Contents of Practice 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8

General Guidelines for Transportation Planning General Guidelines for the Location and Design of Roads and Trails Road and Trail Erosion Control Plan Timing of Construction Activities Erosion Control and Stabilization of Slopes Control of Permanent Road Drainage Pioneer Road Construction Timely Erosion Control Measures on Incomplete Road and Streamcrossing Projects 3.9 Control of Road Construction Excavation and Sidecast Material 3.10 Servicing and Refueling of Equipment 3.11 Control of Construction in Riparian Areas 3.12 Controlling In-Channel Operations -73-

3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 3.19 3.20 3.21

Diversion of Flows Around Construction Sites Development of Borrow Pits, Gravel Sources and Quarries Disposal of Right-of-Way and Roadside Debris Maintenance of Roads Access and Travel Management Surface Erosion Control at Developed Sites Trail Maintenance and Rehabilitation Stream Bank Protection Water Source Development Consistent with Water Quality Protection

3.1 - PRACTICE. General Guidelines for Transportation Planning. Objective - To assure soil and water resources are considered in Transportation Planning activities. Explanation - Transportation Planning and Roads Analysis are included as an integral part of the Forest and watershed planning and implementation processes. In some cases, construction, reconstruction, and/or maintenance of a transportation facility may require a separate NEPA analysis and document. Transportation systems will be planned to achieve an optimum balance of minimum environmental effects, overall long-term cost, while meeting the land and resource management objectives, and protecting the basic soil and water resources. Closing and decommissioning roads may include a variety public and resource concerns to address in the process. Transportation planning processes will develop, evaluate, and document alternative methods of providing needed access and transport services. Alternative methods may include alternative modes, routes, geometric features, materials standards, or some combination thereof. Evaluation will include determining the social, environmental, and economic characteristics of each access alternative. Selection of a recommended alternative must be by the responsible official (Line Officer) and the decision must be documented before any implementation can begin. Implementation - An interdisciplinary team convened during the NEPA process will evaluate watershed characteristics and estimate the response of soil and water resources to proposed transportation alternatives and activities. The NEPA documentation will identify specific mitigation measures needed to protect soil and water resources, analyze, and evaluate their expected effectiveness. The decision by the responsible official identifies the selected alternative and associated mitigation that will be used. The subsequent contract will include provisions to meet water quality, soil, and other resource protection requirements as directed by the environmental analysis and the responsible official's decision. References: FSM 1950, 7700, and 7710; FSH 7709.55; Forest Plans.

-74-

3.2 - PRACTICE. General Guidelines for the Location and Design of Roads and Trails. Objective - To locate and design roads and trails with minimal and acceptable soil and water resource impact while considering all design criteria. Explanation - There are several considerations that must be incorporated into the location and design of roads and trails. The type and intensity of uses will help determine the design and maintenance needs. These factors directly affect protection of water quality, soil, and other resource values. The following coordination instructions apply to all transportation activities: 1.

Transportation planning will be completed using an interdisciplinary process, and tiered to the Forest Plan. Transportation Planning is an extremely effective tool to manage the system and to minimize potential for adverse resource impacts.

2.

Location, design, and construction activities utilize the appropriate technical resource staffs as needed, to evaluate effects of transportation development and operations, and recommend mitigating measures to minimize adverse impacts.

3.

Roads and trails are located, designed, and maintained to facilitate the operation of the transportation system, serve specific resource management needs, fit the terrain, and minimize damage to improvements and resources. Fragile, unstable, sensitive, or special areas should be avoided.

4.

Roads and trails are designed and operated, based on traffic and safety requirements of anticipated use and to meet the overall transportation plans. The design incorporates features to prevent or minimize soil movement and sedimentation as well as undue disruption of surface or subsurface hydrology.

5.

Stream crossing structures are designed to provide the most efficient drainage facility consistent with resource protection, access standard, legal obligations, and total costs. The design may involve a hydrologic analysis to determine runoff rates and volumes, flood conditions, velocities, scour, channel morphology, approach topography, materials-foundation condition, and fish or other organism passage needs. An economic comparison of various flood frequencies versus structure sizes and types is also considered. Crossings at streams should normally be designed to be perpendicular to the stream course. Protection to bridge approaches will reduce risks of downstream water quality degradation. Bridges and culverts are designed in accordance with Forest Service policies and consider the risk of failure in design. Allowance may be needed to pass expected bedload sediments and floating debris.

6.

When provided by design criteria, locate and design roads and trails to drain naturally by the appropriate use of out-sloping or in-sloping with cross drainage and grade changes. Relief culverts and roadside ditches are designed whenever natural drainage does not protect the running surface, excavation, or embankment. Road and trail drainage should be frequently diverted to effective buffer areas to maximize sediment deposition prior to entry into flowing water.

-75-

7.

Minimize soil disturbance in the design of roads and trails. Design specifications should be adapted to given site conditions; slope, topography, and foundation conditions.

8.

Design sidehill cuts and fills to minimize soil displacement, especially adjacent to drainageways and streamcourses.

9.

Design road surface and drainage relief to reduce the likelihood of sediment production to streams.

10. Avoid streams, wetlands, floodplains, riparian areas, and flat ridge areas when possible. When location in these areas is unavoidable, design and maintain surface to handle use and provide for safety. Follow direction in EO 11988 Floodplains, EO 11990 Wetlands and the sections 401, 402 and 404 of the CWA as needed including obtaining necessary permits after the decision is made to accomplish the work. Implementation - During the environmental analysis, an interdisciplinary team is used to ensure that management needs, objectives, requirements, and controls are incorporated in proposals for roads and trails. Mitigation measures needed to protect soil and water resources are identified. Consultation with BMPs, S&Gs and other documents are included. Contract provisions are prepared to meet the soil and water resource protection requirements. References: FSM 7710 and 7720; Road Preconstruction Handbook (FSH 7709.56); Drainage Structures Handbook (FSH 7709.56b); SWCP 3.1; See references in "Best Management Practice" Definition. 3.3 - PRACTICE. Road and Trail Erosion Control Plan Objective - To prevent, limit, or mitigate erosion, sedimentation, and the resulting water quality degradation prior to the initiation of construction and maintenance activities through effective contract administration during construction and timely implementation of erosion and sediment control practices. Explanation - Land disturbing activities as roads and trails may result in short-and longterm erosion that typically declines when stabilized. Poorly located, designed, constructed, and maintained roads and trails may cause abnormal levels of sedimentation. Some uses and designs are more apt to cause impacts than others. Sedimentation can be minimized by locating roads and trails away from streams and planning for erosion control. Roads and trails require a variety of erosion control measures. Erosion control practices can help protect water quality, and also maintain road prism integrity, reduce maintenance costs, and improve traffic ability. The location of the road or trail with respect to water bodies, beneficial water uses, soils, geologic information, and other site factors governs the degree of stabilization required. Stabilization usually includes a combination of practices that promote the re-establishment of vegetation on exposed slopes, provides physical protection to exposed surfaces, prevents the down slope movement of soil, and divides, disperses or otherwise controls road drainage. -76-

The following items may be considered as erosion control measures when constructed in a timely manner. To maximize effectiveness, erosion control measures must be in place and functional prior to seasonal precipitation or runoff. 1.

Measures to re-establish vegetation on exposed soils. This is usually accomplished by seeding grass and legume species suitable for erosion control in conjunction with mulching and fertilization. The desire to be consistent with native plant directives and avoiding invasive exotic species are addressed. Seed mixtures are adjusted appropriately.

2.

Measures that physically protect the soil surface from detachment or modify the topography to minimize erosion. These treatments may include the use of aggregate or paving on the road travelway and ditches, and the use of soil bioengineering and/or biotechnical techniques, mulches, riprap, erosion mats, and terracing on cuts, fills, and ditches. Temporary waterbars in areas of uncompleted roads and trails can be effectively utilized to reduce sedimentation.

3.

Measures that physically inhibit the downslope movement of sediments to streams. These may include the use of slash windrows, silt fences, baled straw, and sediment basins.

Implementation - The requirements are identified by the interdisciplinary team, including how to treat any potentially sensitive or unstable areas. Detailed mitigation measures are developed during the design using criteria from the environmental analysis and through consultation with technical resource staffs. Compliance with environmental controls and requirements is obtained through the enforcement of contract provisions. References: FSM 7720, FSM 7730; FSH 7709.57, FSH 7709.58; FSM 7709.59. 3.4 - PRACTICE. Timing of Construction Activities Objective - To minimize erosion by conducting operations during low runoff periods. Explanation - Erosion and sedimentation are directly related to runoff. Equipment should not be operated when ground conditions are such that significant disturbance will result. Conditions can be either too wet or dry, causing operational problems that cannot be reasonably overcome. Drought conditions may increase soil strength substantially with an inability to cut or compact fill areas effectively. Erosion control in the driest, hot weather also is a problem. Low or base flow conditions are best for installing culverts and other stream crossing structures. Such conditions are identified by the contract design or in administration with assistance from technical resource staff. Temporary erosion control measures may be required to prevent, control, and mitigate erosion and sedimentation. Some treatments may need to be delayed until the proper timing or season. In addition, it is important to keep permanent erosion control work as current as practical with ongoing operations. Construction of drainage facilities and performance of other contract work that will contribute to the control of erosion and sedimentation should be carried out concurrent with earthwork operations or as soon thereafter as possible. -77-

Limitation of the amount of area being disturbed at a site at any one time and minimization of the time that an area is exposed are considerations in contract preparation. Erosion control work must be kept current when road construction occurs outside of the normal operating season. 1. 2. 3. 4.

Contract provisions are used to shutdown operations when ground conditions suggest that significant disturbance will result. If construction must proceed during unsatisfactory weather conditions, sediment basins or other measures to minimize sediment production and delivery should be installed. Eroded areas should be restored promptly to prevent additional soil erosion. Potentially unstable areas will be identified and evaluated. Where appropriate, practices will be applied to ensure stability.

Implementation - The requirements are identified by the interdisciplinary team, including how to treat any potentially sensitive or unstable areas. Potentially sensitive or unstable areas are identified. Detailed mitigation measures are developed during the design using criteria from the environmental analysis and through consultation with technical resource staffs. Compliance with environmental controls and requirements is obtained through the enforcement of contract provisions, and adjustments in timing are made for weather and other conditions when necessary and upon agreement by all concerned. References: Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.236-15; Timber Sale Contract Provisions, 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B; 3.5 - PRACTICE. Erosion Control and Stabilization of Slopes Objective - To minimize soil erosion from road cutslopes, fillslopes, and travelway and road related mass failures. Explanation - Road construction exposes fresh, loose soil to the erosive forces of wind and water. Surface erosion from roads is usually greatest during the first year following construction. An integrated system of collection, control, and dispersion of concentrated surface water is very important in order to prevent erosion on deep or sensitive fillslopes, travelways, and natural slopes impacted by roads and trails, cross drains and culverts. Each of the three areas of road surfaces has unique erosion considerations that are outlined below:

-78-

Surface

General Characteristics

Stabilization/Mitigation Measures

Cutslope

Steep, exposed, and more sterile soil, subsurface and surface hydrology may be impacted

Vegetative and mechanical stabilization, drainage often to road or ditch

Fillslope Mechanica l

Moderately sloping, loose, and more fertile soil, less stable due to lack of compaction or excessive road drainage

Vegetative and stabilization. Regularly remove road surface drainage or use ditch, culverts, or slope drains.

Travelway

Flattest, compact (due to traffic)

Surface Stabilization may be achieved with compaction, aggregate or other methods

Erosion control measures involving revegetation should be planned and implemented at the appropriate time to ensure good germination and cover. Grass, forb, and shrub species suitable for erosion control should be utilized for both temporary and permanent cover needs. Regionally accepted native plants will be used as available and practical. Species in Category 1 of the Invasive Exotic Plant list will not be used, and species on Category 2 list will only be used after careful consideration of other options. Quick growing annuals should be considered to establish a quick cover crop prior to winter. Recommended grass and legume seed mixture and fertilizer depend on soil and climatic conditions and the type and amount of disturbance. Mulch, excelsior matting or other measures will also be used where appropriate to improve germination and erosion control reliability. Roadways may change the surface and subsurface drainage characteristics of a slope. It may be necessary to provide surface or subsurface drainage to avoid moisture saturation and subsequent slope failure. Where it is necessary, horizontal drains, drainage trenches, or drainage blankets may be used to lower the subsurface water levels and to prevent groundwater from entering embankments. Embankments shall be designed and constructed for stability on a site-specific basis. In areas with high landslide potential, the composition and characteristics of embankments should be controlled. Implementation - During the planning and design process, criteria for erosion and slope stabilization are developed. In areas with intrinsic slope stability problems, technical resource staffs must be involved in an interdisciplinary approach to route location. Sufficient geotechnical investigation and laboratory testing must be performed to generate design parameters and mitigating features which will help determine the appropriate criteria. When possible, highly experienced geology, soil and water specialists should be involved with the analysis, plans, and mitigations when unstable areas with potential severe effects are identified and these areas cannot be avoided. Detailed mitigation measures are developed by using criteria from the environmental analysis and through consultation with technical resource staffs. The following preventive measures should be considered: -79-

1.

Manage road runoff by planning adequate drainage facilities to route any concentrated surface flow away from cut and fill slopes and away from unstable slopes. Concentration of runoff should be minimized and avoided on unstable terrain. Retention of a substantial portion of trees or other deep rooting species may be needed to maintain slope stability. Clearing limits may be reduced.

2.

In areas with mass failure potential, end-haul all material, not suited for road fill and other waste material in excess of balanced design requirements to a designated disposal site chosen to prevent sedimentation. Avoiding placing drainage outlets onto deep fill areas will help reduce fill failure. Stabilize loose fill soils with compaction equipment. Include deep rooting species in the erosion control measures. Provide adequate surface drainage at disposal sites.

3.

Road slopes should be treated as soon as practical, according to the erosion control plan. Timely erosion control measures will provide added protection to the roadway and road drainage structures while reducing sedimentation and water quality impacts.

4.

Avoid large fill slopes adjacent to stream courses.

5.

Where high landslide hazards exist, special construction measures should be developed using a ground investigation and stability analysis. Special construction could consist of full bench construction, subsurface drainage, rock buttress, and so forth. Vegetative and soil bioengineering methods can be used in some circumstances to restore slope stability as a result, of increased root density and strength. In general, hardwood species have much greater root strength and should be considered in when using cordones, branch backing, fachines and live tree stakes.

6.

Do not load potentially unstable slopes with heavy equipment, log decks, stockpiled surfacing gravel, or road maintenance waste.

7.

Utilize grade breaks, crowning, insloping or outsloping, of the road to prevent surface runoff from ponding in roadway above/on unstable fill slopes.

8.

During road right of way construction, blasting should be carefully regulated when dealing with unstable or saturated soils.

Compliance with environmental controls and requirements is obtained through enforcement of Contract Provisions. References: FSM 7720, and 7730 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B; Standard and Timber Sale Contract Provisions.

-80-

3.6 - PRACTICE. Control of Permanent Road Drainage Objective - To minimize the erosive effects of concentrated water and the degradation of water quality by proper design and construction of road drainage systems and drainage control structures. Explanation - Degradation of water quality by sediment and the erosive effects of surface runoff can be minimized by stabilizing the road prism and adjacent disturbed areas. Water velocities in the road drainage system can be dissipated before entry into the natural system by design and construction of control structures. A number of measures can be used alone or in combination to control the detrimental effects of road drainage. Methods used to control water and reduce erosion may include: properly spaced and sized culverts, cross drains, water bars, rolling or broad based dips, energy dissipators, aprons, gabions, leadout ditches and armoring of ditches and drain inlets and outlets. Dispersal of runoff can also be accomplished by rolling the grade, insloping, outsloping, crowning, contour trenching, installation of water spreading ditches, and so forth. Implementation - Project location, drainage control features and design criteria are determined using an interdisciplinary approach. Detailed mitigation measures are developed by the design engineer using criteria from the environmental analysis and through consultation with technical resource staffs. Compliance with plans, specifications, and operating plans is assured by the CO representative or the engineering representative. The following measures are generally applicable: 1.

Culverts should be sized to the total drainage area to fit the situation, but generally, not less than the 25-year storm is used for permanent culverts in low use and impact roads on small streams (minimal fill and limited hazard or damage related to road overflow). Areas with larger streams, more fill and/or higher public uses should generally have a minimum design for the 50-year flood, with bridge design capable of passing the 100-year flood without failure. Provide signing of 100-year flood elevation on high use public roads to indicate hazard. Streams with fish or other aquatic passage needs are addressed. Culvert inlets and outlets should have riprap as needed to prevent erosion of the road prism during periods of heavy runoff. Proper velocity dissipation at culvert outfalls is particularly important to limit sedimentation and undermining of large road fills.

2.

Utilize relief culverts when necessary to disperse road runoff and provide for natural hydrology in flatter areas when needed in wetlands, riparian areas or where ponding could occur or where concentrated runoff could result in road flooding, ditch erosion or saturation of unstable road fills.

3.

Cross drain culverts should be placed deep enough in the road fill to prevent crushing and deformation that will reduce culvert efficiency and increase potential for road flooding or erosion of the road fill during high runoff.

-81-

4.

5.

6.

Road ditch width and grade determine runoff velocities. Flow velocity in road ditches should be great enough to carry flow and sediment loads yet not steep enough to erode the ditch. Sediment delivered by road ditches should be safely routed to suitable filter areas to limit delivery into streams, unstable slopes, or other sensitive areas. Road ditches should be maintained, but avoid over aggressive maintenance of regularly pulling ditches and destabilizing shoulders and cut-banks. Ditches draining into natural drainage ways and streams should be designed with ditch relief culverts to divert sediment to filter or riparian areas rather than allowing ditch, runoff to flow directly into a stream. Install low-rise rock or other types of check dams or rock armor in steep gradient ditches to maintain control flow velocity, reduce scour and erosion of road subgrade. Install measures to avoid diverting storm-flow onto the road, eroding the cut-slope or the road shoulder.

References: Timber Sale Contract Provisions. FSM 7720, 1950, Drainage Structures Handbook (FSH 7709.56b); "Logging Roads and the Protection of Water Quality" (EPA 1975); 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B. 3.7 - PRACTICE. Pioneer Road Construction Objective - To minimize sediment production associated with pioneer road construction. Explanation - Pioneer roads are built to allow equipment access for construction of planned roadways. Pioneering is usually done within the corridor of the planned road. Implementation - The requirements are identified by the interdisciplinary team, including how to treat any potentially sensitive or unstable areas. The Contractor is responsible for submitting for approval, by the CO, an operating plan that includes erosion control measures. To meet the objective of minimizing sediment, the following guidelines should be followed: 1.

Construction of pioneer roads are confined to the roadway construction limits unless otherwise approved by the CO.

2.

Pioneering is conducted so as to prevent undercutting of the designated final cut slope, prevent avoidable deposition of materials outside the designated roadway limits, and accommodate drainage with temporary culverts.

3.

Erosion control is completed concurrent with construction activity or prior to the wet season.

4.

Debris from clearing and grubbing is disposed of properly prior to road fill construction.

5.

Road drainage structures are incorporated in early road construction phases to reduce potential erosion-sedimentation risks. For some road types and needs, rolling or broad based dips, reverse grades or undulating with the topography to create reverse -82-

grades and outsloped sections will provide the needed surface drainage and drainage relief. 6.

Contract provisions or other acceptable alternatives shall be used to avoid significant disturbance to soil and water resources.

7.

Remove temporary culverts, diversions, dams, culvert plugs or elevated stream crossings prior to anticipated wet weather.

8.

Installation of side-drains, cross drains, energy dissipators, drainage dips, sediment basins, berms or other facilities necessary to control erosion will be timely and of adequate design.

References: Standard Specifications FSM 7720, Timber Sale Contract Provision B6.6, B6.65, C6.3; 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B. 3.8 - PRACTICE. Timely Erosion Control Measures on Incomplete Roads and Streamcrossing Projects Objective - To minimize erosion and sediment from disturbed ground on incomplete projects. Explanation - The best drainage design and erosion control measure can be useless, if projects are incomplete at the end of the normal operating season. Affected areas can include roads, fills, tractor trails, skid trails, landings, stream crossings and bridges. Preventive measures include: 1.

The removal of temporary culverts, culvert plugs, or diversion dams that may cause erosion problems during shut down periods.

2.

The installation of new temporary culverts, side drains, cross drains, diversion ditches, energy dissipators, dips, sediment basins, berms, debris racks, straw bales or other conservation measures needed to control erosion, during operating season.

3.

The removal of debris, obstructions, and spoil material from channels and floodplains;

4.

Grass seeding, planting rapidly germinating annuals or other vegetation to provide temporary needs, include perennials and planting deep rooting species for permanent needs, and/or mulching, excelsior matting or other materials.

Implementation - Protective measures should be applied to all areas of disturbed, erosion-prone, unprotected ground that is not to be further disturbed in the present year. When conditions permit operations outside the Normal Operating Season, erosion control measures should be kept current with ground disturbance, to the extent that the affected area can be rapidly "closed," if weather conditions deteriorate. Areas should not be abandoned for the winter with remedial measures uncompleted.

-83-

Project location and criteria are developed in the NEPA process using an interdisciplinary approach. Detailed mitigation measures are developed by the design engineer using criteria from the environmental analysis and through consultation with technical resource staffs. Compliance with environmental analysis, contract specifications, and operating plans are assured by the CO representative or the engineering representative. References: FSM 7721, 7721.54, Amendment 32(9/78); Timber Sale Contract Provisions B6.31, B6.6, B6.65, C6.6; FAR 52.213-3, 52.236-15, and 4G-52.236-107; Standard Specification 206; 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B. 3.9 - PRACTICE. Control of Road Construction Excavation and Sidecast Material Objective - To reduce sediment from unconsolidated excavated and sidecast material caused by road construction, reconstruction, or maintenance. Explanation - Unconsolidated material from road construction, which is frequently exposed on cut and fill slopes, can be difficult to stabilize, and represents a major source of sediment. The area of exposed material is reduced when the cut and fill slopes and roadbed are constructed to the lines, grades, and dimensions shown on the drawings or designated on the ground. Contract administration ensures that construction is within tolerances. In some cases, layer placement and/or benching may be necessary for stabilization and to obtain the proper dimensions and fill slope ratios. End hauling and retaining structures may be necessary to prevent thin layers of unconsolidated material from being sidecast on steep slopes. Normal erosion control such as seeding should be supplemented with special mitigation measures such as jute netting, erosion cloth, mulching, slash windrows, sediment ponds, hay bale dams, and rock gabions, or other measures necessary for local conditions. Prior to commencing construction, reconstruction, or maintenance activities, waste areas should be located where excess material can be deposited and stabilized. Disposal of slide debris should be in areas where it can be stabilized. Implementation - Project location, selected disposal areas, and criteria are developed through an interdisciplinary approach. Detailed mitigative measures are developed during the design using criteria from the environmental analysis and through consultation with technical resource staffs. Forest S&Gs, BMPs and other sources provide examples of measures to be used. References: FSM 7720 FAR 52.236-09; FSH 7709.57; 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B.

-84-

3.10 - PRACTICE. Servicing and Refueling of Equipment Objective - To prevent contamination of waters from spills of fuels and lubricants. Explanation - During servicing or refueling, pollutants from logging or road construction equipment may enter a watercourse. This threat is minimized by selecting service and refueling areas well away from streams, lakes, springs, wetlands, riparian areas and other surface water and by using good housekeeping techniques to collect used oil, clean up spills and using approved disposal methods. Implementation - The Contract Administrators will designate the location, size and allowable uses of service and refueling areas. The operator shall develop a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) plans (40 CFR 112) needed for specific site conditions. This plan should highlight procedures of notification, emergency response and initial cleanup measures expected for specific types of spills or accidents. Both the operators, the COR, or the ER needs to have a ready copy of these plans when working on site. References: Timber Sale Contract Provisions and 1985 Forest Service Specifications. 3.11 - PRACTICE. Control of Construction in Riparian Areas Objective - To minimize the adverse effects of road and trail construction in riparian areas. Explanation - Except at designated stream crossings, road and trail construction will avoid placing fill materials or structures in riparian areas. Occasionally exceptions may occur. These instances should be identified by an interdisciplinary team who will address the reasoning why avoidance is not recommended and provide the final location and effective design measures to minimize adverse impact. Factors such as stream classification, stream order, watershed condition, channel stability, sideslope steepness, slope stability, resources dependent on these areas and prescriptions, standards, guidelines, and direction from the Forest Plan are considered in determining the management of activities and extent of riparian areas and appropriate streamside management zones. Mitigation measures should be used to avoid significant disturbance to the soil and water resources. Implementation - Riparian area requirements are identified during the environmental analysis by an interdisciplinary approach considering BMPs, S&Gs and other sources. The road or trail project is designed to include site specific SWCPs for the prevention of sediment, compaction, displacement, soil puddling, hydrologic modifications and other damage. Depending on the specific circumstances, these activities may require state and/or federal permits. Preventive measures include: 1.

Any material temporarily stockpiled on floodplains shall be removed before high waters reach the stockpiled material. -85-

2. The construction activity in or adjacent to the stream, wetlands or wet soil conditions will be limited to specific times to limit sediment introduction, protect beneficial water uses and riparian resources. References: FSM 2500, 7700, 7720, FSH 7709.57 Timber Sale Contract Provisions Standard Specification, 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100R and EM 7720-100B; EO 11988; EO 11990; 3.12 - PRACTICE. Controlling In-Channel Operations Objective - To minimize stream channel disturbances and related sediment production. Explanation - During the construction of roads and the installation of stream crossing structures, it may be necessary for construction equipment to cross, operate in, or operate near streamcourses. Close coordination is needed with the Contractor to minimize damage to the stream and aquatic resources. Implementation - Project location and mitigation measures are developed by an interdisciplinary approach and are incorporated into the contract. These activities are often regulated by state and federal direction requiring permits depending on whether the stream’s navigability, size, average flow rate, aquatic resources, water quality concerns or other reasons. Possible permits or environmental notification of regulating agencies may be needed. This may include Section 401 water quality certification, Section 404 requirements of the CWA and perhaps others. Physical and biological features of streams may need assessment to determine the types of operations to allow. Excavation during the installation of streamside structures should receive close technical scrutiny and be accomplished using the following measures in order to protect water quality. 1.

Operation of mechanical equipment in flowing streams shall be kept to the minimum amount necessary to avoid significant disturbance to water quality and aquatic resources.

2.

Unless otherwise approved, the natural streambed adjacent to the structure should not be disturbed without approval of the CO representative.

3.

Material from foundation or other excavation activities within the streamside area shall not be discharged directly into perennial streams but shall be removed to settling areas shown on the drawing or approved by the CO representative. Material from sediment ponds should be de-watered and removed to a waste disposal site outside of the floodplain.

4.

If the channel is damaged during construction, it should be restored as nearly as possible to its original configuration without causing additional damage to the channel.

5.

Removal of large, stable pieces of woody debris should be avoided. If it must be moved, then the debris should be replaced following in-stream activity, unless -86-

replacement would threaten the structural or hydraulic integrity of the crossing structure. 6.

Road material used for stream crossing approaches should be substantially free of fine, easily erodible sediments. Excess road materials should be kept out of the stream channel and streambank areas.

7.

Measures to limit channel modifications and downstream impacts to water quality are undertaken as needed.

8.

Fish and aquatic organism passage requirements are evaluated.

References: FAR 52.213-3, 52.236-15, and 4G-52.236-107; FSM 7720 and 2505 Timber Sale Contract Provisions, EO 11988, Flood Plain Management; 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B; EO 11990, Wetland Protection; 36 CFR Parts 320-330. 33 CFR Parts 320-330. 3.13 - PRACTICE. Diversion of Flows Around Construction Sites Objective - To minimize downstream sedimentation. Explanation - Flow must sometimes be guided or piped around project sites. Typical examples are bridge and dam construction. Flow in streamcourses will be diverted, if the Forest Service deems it necessary. Such a diverted flow shall be restored to the natural streamcourse as soon as practical. Stream channels impacted by construction activity will be restored to their natural grade, condition, and alignment as soon as possible. Implementation - An interdisciplinary approach should be used to identify where diversions are required and mitigation measures to be used. The project design engineer will ensure that mitigation measures are incorporated to protect fishery values and other downstream uses. Stream diversions may be a regulated activity, depending on the circumstances. Projects will secure Section 401 water quality certification or Section 404 permits when required for diversion ditches constructed within the channel, flood plain, or terraces. In some cases, regulatory agency notification may be required instead of permits. On-site and adjacent aquatic species may need special consideration. Preventive measures include: 1.

Divert stream-flow around project sites during construction in order to minimize erosion and downstream sedimentation.

2.

During excavation in or near the stream-course, it may be necessary to use suitable cofferdams, caissons, cribs, or sheet piling. This will usually be the case where groundwater is contributing a significant amount of water to the immediate excavation area. If any of the aforementioned devices are used, they will be practically watertight and no excavation will be made outside of them. If water from subsurface strata is not significant, pumping may be used, provided the sediment from the pumped water can be disposed of where it will not re-enter the stream during high flows. -87-

3.

Limiting water quality and aquatic habitat effects are paramount considerations in designing and constructing diversion or retention structures.

References: Timber Sale Contract Provisions, FSM 2500, 7720 FAR 52.213-3, 52.23615, and 4G-52.236-107; Drainage Structures Handbook (FSH 7709.56b); EO 11988, Flood Plain Management; Standard Specifications 100.42; 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B; 33 CFR Parts 320-330. 3.14 - PRACTICE. Development of Borrow Pits, Gravel Sources and Quarries Objective - To minimize sediment production from borrow pits, gravel sources, and quarries, and limit channel disturbance in those gravel sources suitable for development in floodplains. Explanation - Borrow pits, gravel sources, and quarries are often susceptible to erosion due to steep side slopes, lack of vegetation, and/or their proximity to water courses. Whenever possible, the topsoil will be removed and stockpiled for use as surface dressing during the reclamation phases. Oversize material, if planned for future use should be stockpiled on upland areas. Drainage design for the stockpiled material and the excavation should consider temporary erosion control measures during the life of the material source and permanent drainage and erosion control measures after the site has been rehabilitated. When excavation of the site has been completed on all or part of the area, and the site will not be used again, the sides should be sloped, graded, or scaled and the general pit area smoothed and stabilized. Finer material, if available, should be spread over the bottom of the pit prior to spreading stockpiled or imported topsoil. The soil shall be seeded, mulched, and/or planted. If the site will be used again, the above requirements will be limited to those essential to resource protection between uses. Access roads to the site shall have adequate drainage design for erosion and sediment control. Borrow pits and gravel sources located in floodplains require special attention. With careful planning and design, and favorable site conditions, these deposits can be removed with no significant disturbance on water resources. Under some circumstances, sand and/or gravel removal may alter stream channel or flow characteristics and consequently affect stream channel stability, channel adjustments during storm events and create a new sediment source. If the borrow area is subject to periodic flooding and channel adjustments; leveling, shaping, or other special drainage or stabilization features should be provided. Excavation in floodplains or terraces should not take place below the water table unless sediment basins are built to contain the sediment from the dewatering operation. Sediment basins should not be subject to washouts and an ample filter zone between the activity and sediment basin is retained to insure maintenance of water quality. If excess sediment accumulates in basins during the project or stabilization period, it should be excavated to clean the basin and the sediment removed to an approved site.

-88-

Wash water or waste from concrete batching or aggregate operations should not be allowed to enter streams prior to treatment by filtration, flocculation, settling, and/or other means. Implementation - Project feasibility, location, suitability, and the limits for disturbance and sediment production should be identified through an interdisciplinary approach. Detailed mitigation measures are developed during the design using criteria from the environmental analysis and through consultation with technical resource staffs. In some instances, these activities will require Section 401 Water Quality Certification and/or 404 permits for activities, especially if they occur in navigable waters of the State or United States. In other circumstances, Regulatory Agency notification is a requirement. Streamside borrow pits can also be evaluated for post-operation utilization as fisheries habitat. For best results, the evaluation should be made prior to development of the borrow pit and include channel morphology evaluations and/or monitoring to assess effects. References: FSM 2500, 7700, 7720 Transportation Engineering Handbook (FSH 7709.11) and Road Preconstruction Handbook (FSH 7709.56); FAR 52.236-09; Timber Sale Contract Provisions, Water Pollution Control Act, 33 U.S.C. 466; Standard Specifications, 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B; "Wildlife Values of Gravel Pits. 1982, Symposium Proceedings from a symposium at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, MN. Editors: Svedarsky, W.D. and R.W. Crawford. Miscellaneous Publication 17-1982 of the Agriculture Experiment Station, Univ. of Minnesota, St. Paul, 33 CFR Parts 320-330, EO 11988, Floodplain Management. SWCP 14.1 3.15 - PRACTICE. Disposal of Right-of-Way and Roadside Debris Objective - To ensure that debris generated during road construction is kept out of streams and to prevent slash and debris from subsequently obstructing channels. Explanation - As a preventive measure, construction debris and other newly generated slash developed along roads near streams should be disposed of by the following means, as applicable: 1.

On-Site a. Windrowing b. Scattering c. Piling and Burning d. Chipping d. Disposal in Cutting Units, and e. debris and sediment retention barrier below fill areas.

2.

Removal to agreed upland locations for piling, burning or other disposal methods.

3.

A combination of the above.

-89-

4.

Where suitable storage and access is available without causing undo safety problems, large limbs and cull logs may be transported to storage areas or bucked into manageable lengths and piled alongside the road for fuelwood.

Implementation - Criteria for the disposal of Right-of-Way and roadside debris are established by an interdisciplinary approach. Detailed mitigation measures are developed during the design using criteria from the environmental analysis and through consultation with technical resource staffs. References: Timber Sale Contract, 1985 Forest Service Specifications. 3.16 - PRACTICE. Maintenance of Roads Objective - To maintain all roads in a manner which provides for soil and water resource protection by minimizing rutting, failures, sidecasting, erosion of road surface, ditches, cutbanks, or fillslopes, and blockage of drainage facilities. Explanation - Roads deteriorate because of use and weather impacts. This deterioration can be minimized through proper and timely maintenance and/or restriction of use. Roads should be maintained to at least provide the basic custodial care required to protect the road investment and to ensure that damage to adjacent land and resources is held to minimum. As a minimum measure, maintenance must protect drainage facilities and runoff patterns. Maintenance needs will be reflected in a road maintenance plan. Maintenance plans outline performance standards, responsibilities, and timing. For roads with close proximity to streams or other water quality concerns, special surfacing or maintenance measures may be needed to protect water quality. In all cases, ditch maintenance or improvements to prevent direct delivery of sediments into stream channels will be a high priority. On other Federal, State and County roads within the National Forests, cooperation and technical assistance should be provided to help improve impaired streams or known sediment problem conditions whenever possible. In addition to timely performance of regular maintenance, each Forest should have an emergency action plan that identifies procedures to be used during periods of high runoff or flood events to protect facilities and reduce resource damage. Stream crossings and associated public road flood hazards will maintain flood elevation and hazard road signs. Implementation - Maintenance levels are established for each road and maintenance is performed in accordance with standards. Technical specialists are consulted when resource protection measures are not as planned. References: FSM 7730 Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15) and Transportation System Maintenance Handbook (FSH 7709.15); Standard Specification, Timber Sale Contract Provisions 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM7720-100 R and EM 7720-10OB; 33 CFR Parts 320-330, EO 11988, Floodplain Management. 3.17 - PRACTICE. Access and Travel Management -90-

Objective - To reduce the potential for road surface disturbance, erosion and runoff during wet weather, and to reduce sedimentation probability. Explanation - The unrestricted use of roads during wet weather may result in rutting and significant damage of the road, shoulder or ditch surfaces. Runoff from such disturbed road or trail surfaces often carries a high sediment load. The damage/maintenance cycle for roads that are frequently used with inadequate surfacing, poor design or poor soil conditions may result in a disturbed road surface. Proximity to and erosion or drainage into streams during wet periods can create direct or dispersed sediment sources adversely impacting the stream, aquatic resources and water quality. Roads that must be used during wet periods should have a stable surface and sufficient drainage to allow such use without significant disturbance to the soil and water resources. Rocking, oiling, paving, and armoring are measures that may be necessary to protect the road surface and reduce erosion potential. Roads not constructed for all weather use should be closed during the wet season. Temporary reopening during hunting or special events can be considered when the conditions are dry enough to support traffic and limit adverse effects on specific roads. Where winter field operations are planned or normal access is desired in all weather conditions, roads may need to be upgraded and maintenance intensified to handle the traffic without creating excessive erosion and damage to the road surfaces. Implementation - Road closures and traffic control measures should be implemented when significant disturbance of soil and water resources would occur as a result of wet weather use. Criteria for mitigation measures are developed by using an interdisciplinary approach as necessary. References: FSM 7731.4; Timber Sale Contract Provisions B5.12, B6.22, and C5.12; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); 1985 Forest Service Specifications, EM-7720-100 R and EM 7720-100B; Refer to 36 CFR 261 or closure authority; Forest ORV plans; FSM 1920, FSM 2310, Road Management Plans, 33 CFR Parts 320-330, EO 11644, 36 CFR 295. 3.18 - PRACTICE. Surface Erosion Control at Developed Sites Objective - To minimize the amount of erosion and sedimentation at developed sites. Explanation - On lands developed for administrative sites, campgrounds, parking areas, or waste disposal sites much ground is cleared of vegetation. Erosion control methods need to be implemented to stabilize the soil and to reduce the amount of stream sedimentation. Some examples of erosion control methods that could be applied are: grass seed, jute mesh, silt fences, hydromulch, paving, rocking of roads, water bars, cross drains, or retaining walls. To control erosion and sedimentation, the natural drainage pattern of the area should not be changed. Sediment basins and sediment filters should be established to filter surface runoff. Diversion ditches and berms should be built to divert surface runoff around bare -91-

areas. Construction activities should be scheduled to avoid periods of heavy precipitation or runoff. Implementation - Criteria are developed by an interdisciplinary approach and incorporated in the project. State Stormwater plans and permits may be needed for large development areas. References: FSM 2522, CWA. 3.19 - PRACTICE. Trail Construction, Maintenance and Rehabilitation Objective - To minimize soil erosion and water quality problems originating from trails. Explanation - Existing trails often have erosion problems due to poor location and design, improper maintenance, and the amount or type of use. This deterioration can often be minimized by proper maintenance, restriction of certain types or periods of use, hardening of problem surfaces, and/or relocation. Mainline and heavy use trails should have functional drainage systems (waterbars, broad based or rolling dips; undulating trail sections with reverse grades and outsloping sections, culverts at small stream or channel crossings; fill with armoring, corduroy, boardwalks in boggy or wetland areas). Additional measures (lateral ditching, trail relocation, reconstruction, and so forth) may be required in heavy use or problem areas. Implementation - Detailed mitigation measures for trail construction or relocation are developed during design by an interdisciplinary approach. Criteria from the environmental analysis and consultation with technical resource staffs should be incorporated into the design solution. Many of the considerations in location are similar to road construction. A trail maintenance plan that determines level, timing, and frequency of maintenance should be developed and implemented. ORV, ATV, motorcycle, and horse trails often have much higher effects and maintenance needs in comparison to mountain bike and hiking trails. These activities have specialized design and maintenance needs related to the types of compaction, soil displacement and tread wear that occur. Hiking and biking trails often maintain a narrow trail tread with a leaf cover after construction and the tread wear is much less. Turnpikes, ramps, and other types of sloping fills on ORV and ATV trails need hardened base, specialized compaction, ample settling time, and/or sometimes armoring to prevent damage from use. Recent equipment (SWECO, rock rakes, trail dump ATV, sheepfoot attachment, vibratory roller, etc.) has improved capabilities to reconstruct and maintain trails. Improved design or maintenance measures provide increasing opportunities to reconstruct, stabilize, or relocate problem sections. Unless special measures are planned and designed, avoid locating intensive use trails in relatively flat areas (whether uplands or riparian areas) as these conditions will not drain properly and often create problems in management. Traversing steep slopes and locating steep gradient trails perpendicular to topographic contours may create stability and maintenance problems. Dips should be broad based or smoothed when possible to both remove surface flow and allow for equipment and users to travel without abrupt elevational changes in the trail tread. Periodically, soil cut and fill materials should be returned to the trail tread, reshaped and re-compacted with suitable equipment. -92-

Various types of engineering, erosion or surface treatment materials exist to help facilitate trail management and stabilization of problem areas including interlocking plastic grids, concrete pavers, concrete lentils, aggregate materials, surface hardeners, etc. References: Drainage Structures Handbook (FSH 7709.56b); Trails Management Handbook - FSH 2309.18; 33 CFR Parts 320-330, Cam Lockwood, U.S. Forest Service Trail Enterprise Team, R5. 3.20 - PRACTICE. Streambank Protection Objective - To minimize sediment production from streambanks and structural abutments in natural waterways. Explanation - The stabilization of stream embankments disturbed by the construction of a water crossing or a roadway fill parallel to a stream course, is necessary to prevent erosion of the material during natural stream flow. To reduce sediment and channel bank degradation, it is necessary to incorporate "armoring" or soil bioengineering or biotechnical methods into the design of a structure to allow the water course to stabilize after construction. Revetments, riprap, gabion structures, branch packing, live woody stakes, and other measures are commonly used to armor stream banks and drainage ways from the erosive forces of flowing water. These measures must be sized and installed in such a way that they effectively resist erosive water velocities. Stone used for riprap should be free from weakly structured rock, soil, organic material and materials of insufficient size, all of which are not resistant to stream flow and would only serve as sediment sources. Channel measures are sometimes needed to control grade or areas of high-flow velocity along stream banks. Implementation - Project location and detailed mitigation measures are developed to meet environmental objectives and management requirements. Technical specialists are utilized to design specific measures. References: SWCP 13.3; see references in "Best Management Practice" Definition; 33 CFR Parts 320-330. 3.21 - PRACTICE. Water Source Development Consistent with Water Quality Protection Objective - To supply water needs for road construction and maintenance and fire protection while maintaining water quality. Explanation - Water source development is normally needed to supply water for road construction, dust control, mixing with surface materials, compaction, planting and for fire control requirements of the timber Purchaser. Water source development should favor the construction of durable, long-term water sources rather than the construction of hasty, expedient developments. Permanently designed sources with storage facilities, such as tanks, will result in the lowest, long-term impact to the affected streams. The need for suitable permanent surface sources for helicopter dip sites are considered for fire protection needs. -93-

Other considerations in the development of water sources should be: 1.

Downstream flow should not be reduced or impacted to detrimentally affect aquatic resources, fish passage, or other uses. Streamflow should not be taken during minimum flows under 7Q10 levels unless emergency conditions exist.

2.

Temporary cofferdams should be constructed of sandbags containing sand or clean gravel, or of other materials and means which will not introduce sediment into the stream.

3.

Overflow should go directly back into the stream.

4.

All temporary facilities for gathering water will be removed prior to causing any resource damage.

5.

Permanent facilities will use existing ponds, lakes or water from borrow pits when possible.

6.

Stream diversion, water transmission, or pumping to storage facilities should use methods to limit effects to streambanks, riparian areas, water quality and aquatic habitats.

7.

Small water holding ponds or excavated pits are best located in suitable upland or headwater areas to avoid impacts to aquatic habitats.

8.

The preference would be to store water from moderate to high surface flow periods or groundwater influx rather than relying on low or minimum streamflow periods.

Implementation - Project location and detailed mitigation measures are developed using the interdisciplinary approach during the design development. In some instances concerning water diversion, transmission and use, or when operations affect streams, wetlands and riparian areas, activities may need permits or special evaluation or mitigation measures. Any damage to resources caused by Purchaser's operations, fire prevention or suppression activities shall be repaired by Purchaser or fire suppression crews in a timely and agreed manner to the extent practical to restore and prevent further resource damage. References: Standard Specification 207; Timber Sale Contract Provisions; SWCP 2.3; Timber Sale Administration Handbook (FSH 2409.15); see reference in "Best Management Practice" Definition; 33 CFR Parts 320-330.

-94-

CHAPTER 4 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

-95-

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT. Vegetation management on NFS lands is conducted in the course of forest regeneration, brushland conversion to forests or grasslands, utility transmission corridor maintenance, silvicultural practices such as release and thinning, control of noxious or invasive weed species, and wildlife habitat improvement. Means of conversion are: chemical, mechanical, burning, manual and biological. Each project is evaluated through the NEPA process by an interdisciplinary team. Contents of Practice 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 4.10

Revegetation of Surfaced Disturbed Areas Planning Pesticide Use Apply Pesticides According to Label and EPA Registration Directions Pesticide Application Monitoring and Evaluation Pesticide Spill Contingency Plan Cleaning and Disposal of Pesticide Containers and Equipment Protection of Water, Wetlands, Riparian Areas During Pesticide Application Controlling Pesticide Drift During Application Soil Protection During and Following Slash Windrowing Soil moisture Limitation for Tractor Operations

4.1 - PRACTICE. Revegetation of Surface Disturbed Areas Objective - To protect water quality by minimizing soil erosion. Explanation - This practice is used to stabilize the surface of disturbed areas by establishing vegetation. The factors evaluated to determine suitable species are soil fertility, slope, aspect, landtype characteristics, soil water-holding capacity, soil chemistry, hydroclimatic factors, species competition, vegetation species characteristics and project objectives. When possible, suitable regionally native species will be used or included in the seed mixtures or plantings. None of the Invasive Exotic Plant Species List in the Category 1 will be used, and those in Category 2 can be used if no other suitable native or non-native species are available and will achieve the desired results. If non-native species are used for revegetation, their ability to compete with and/or displace native species should be considered. These are field determinations and office interpretations made by an interdisciplinary team. Implementation - The identification of disturbed areas and revegetation species mix will be determined during the NEPA process. The responsible Line officer assigns specific individuals to execute the project. Projects are subsequently monitored to assess the revegetation effectiveness, and need for follow-up action. References: FSM 2522, 2405, 2472, and 7721, EO 13148, Greening of the Government through Leadership in Environmental Management, Executive Memorandum Fed. Reg. V59, no. 161, Region 8 2080 letter of May 18, 2001.

-96-

4.2 - PRACTICE. Planning Pesticide Use Objective - To incorporate water quality, beneficial uses, soil and hydrologic considerations into the Pesticide Use Planning Process. Explanation - Chemical alternatives are proposed as a means to accomplish project objectives. Projects may be in-service or may involve proposals by Forest Service permit holders, or cooperators. The pesticide use planning process will be used to identify problem areas and the objectives of the project, establish the administrative controls, identify treatments and preventive measures, and incorporate water quality, soil and hydrologic considerations. The NEPA process addresses these considerations in terms of impacts, mitigation measures, and alternative treatment measures. Project work and safety plans specify management direction. Factors considered in pesticide selection are: purpose of the project, methods of application available, target species, timing of treatment, pest location, size of treatment area, impacts if other methods are used to treat conditions, and need for repeated treatment. Practicability of application considers: registration restrictions, form and method of application, topographic relief, and areas to be avoided, and social acceptance of the project. The degree of risk considers: hazard to humans, hazard to water quality, hazard to fish, method of application, transportation and handling hazards, carriers needed, and chemical persistence. Implementation - The interdisciplinary team evaluates the project in terms of potential site response, potential social and environmental impacts, mitigating measures needed to protect water quality, and the need and intensity of monitoring and evaluation. The responsible Line Officer then prepares the necessary NEPA documentation, Project Plan, and Safety Plan including spill contingency. Depending on the pesticide use, (FSM 2151.04) the Forest pesticide-use coordinator or Federal and State licensed pesticide applications, review the documents along with the Pesticide-Use Proposal, form Forest Service-2100-2, and makes recommendations for or against approval of the project. Do not apply pesticides, even if they have an aquatic application label, to streams, other water bodies or wetlands, unless the analysis has been specifically directed and provided for that use. All aquatic and wetland applications must be addressed specifically for that use. References: FSM 2150 and 2323; FSH 2109.11f 2109.12f 2109.13; State Hazardous Waste Management Plans; Material Safety Data Sheets; FEIS and ROD's for vegetation management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains and Appalachian Mountains; Forest Plans. 4.3 - PRACTICE. Apply Pesticides According to Label and EPA Registration Directions Objective - To avoid water contamination by complying with all label instructions and restrictions. Explanation - Label directions for each pesticide are detailed and specific, and include legal requirements for use. -97-

Implementation - Constraints identified on the label and other legal requirements of application are incorporated into project plans and contracts. The Forest Supervisor is responsible for ensuring that label directions and other applicable requirements are followed. In some instances, it may be necessary to stipulate more stringent limitation than required by the labeling and in the VMEIS to be consistent with public issues or resource needs. For contracted projects, it is the responsibility of the Contracting Officer or their representative to ensure that label directions and all other requirements are followed. References: FSM 2150; FSH 2109.11, 2109.12, 2109.13; FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains and Appalachian Mountains; Forest Plans. 4.4 - PRACTICE. Pesticide Application Monitoring and Evaluation Objective - To determine and document that pesticides have been applied safely, measures to avoid or limit effects were effective, and when needed to provide an early warning for any contamination of water, non-target areas or resources. Explanation - This practice provides feedback on the placement accuracy, application amount, and any water contamination that might occur from pesticide use, and its effects on non-target areas or resources. Monitoring and evaluation methods include spray cards, dye tracing, and direct measurement of pesticide in or near water. Type of pesticide, equipment, application difficulty, public concern, beneficial uses of water, monitoring difficulty, availability of competent laboratory analysis and applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations are factors considered when determining the monitoring and evaluation needs. Implementation - The need for a monitoring plan is identified during the Pesticide Use Planning Process/NEPA process. A technical staff familiar with pesticide monitoring will evaluate and interpret the monitoring results in terms of compliance, State water quality standards, any special project issues, and adequacy of project specifications. References: FSM 2150; FSH 2109.12; FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains and Appalachian Mountains, Forest Plan. 4.5 - PRACTICE. Pesticide Spill Contingency Planning Objective - To reduce contamination of water from accidental pesticide spills. Explanation - A contingency plan that contains a predetermined organization and immediate actions to be implemented in the event of a hazardous substance spill will be prepared. The plan lists notification requirements, time requirements for the notification, how spills will be handled, monitoring, and who will be responsible for cleanup. Factors considered for each spill are: specific substance spilled, quantity, toxicity, proximity of spill to waters, and the hazard to life, property, and the environment including aquatic organisms. -98-

Implementation - The Pesticide Spill Contingency Plan will be incorporated into the Project Safety Plan. The NEPA process will provide the means for including public and other agency involvement in plan preparation. The plan will list the responsible authorities. References: Pesticide Storage, Transportation, Spills, and Disposal Handbook (FSH 2109.12); FSM 6740, 7442, 7443, and 7460; Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plans; 4.6 - PRACTICE. Cleaning and Disposal of Pesticide Containers and Equipment Objective - To prevent water contamination and risk to humans from cleaning and disposal of pesticide containers. Explanation - The cleaning and disposal of pesticide containers and equipment must be done in accordance with Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and directives, and in a manner which will safeguard public health, the beneficial uses of water, aquatic organisms, and wildlife. Normally containers are rinsed with water three times, the rinse water disbursed on upland areas of the project area away from streams, riparian areas, and sensitive resources as soon as practical, and the containers taken to the designated disposal site. Application equipment is also rinsed and rinse water applied to the nonsensitive areas of the project site before the equipment is moved from the project area. Implementation - When the pesticide is applied by In-Service personnel, the Forest or District Pesticide Use Coordinator will locate proper rinsing and disposal sites, and will arrange for container disposal in an approved disposal site. When the pesticide is applied by a contractor, the contractor is responsible for proper clean-up and container disposal in accordance with label directions and Federal, State, and local laws. Rinsing and disposal sites will be approved by the Forest or District Pesticide Use Coordinator. The CO or their representative will document that the proper disposal methods were followed. References: FSM 2150; Pesticide Storage, Transportation, Spills, and Disposal Handbook (FSH 2109.12); Health and Safety Code Handbook (FSH 6709.11); Safety and Health Program Handbook (FSH 6709.12); 4.7 - PRACTICE. Protection of Water, Wetlands, and Riparian Areas During Pesticide Application Objective - To minimize the risk of a pesticide entering surface or subsurface waters or affecting riparian areas, wetlands, and other non-target areas. Explanation - When applying pesticides, an untreated buffer strip will be left alongside surface waters, wetlands, and riparian areas unless aquatic application has been specifically included in the analysis and provided for in the decision. Factors considered in establishing buffer strip widths beyond minimums established by FSH and NEPA documents are: beneficial water uses, adjacent land use, rainfall, temperature, wind speed, wind direction, terrain, slope, soils and geology, vegetative type, and aquatic life. -99-

Other considerations include: type of application, persistence on site/foliage, and characteristics of spray pattern, spray droplets, and carrier. Implementation - Protected areas will be identified and mapped by an interdisciplinary team and the Forest Pesticide Use Coordinator during the NEPA process. Protection of untreated areas is the responsibility of the project supervisor for In-Service projects and the CO for contracted projects. The certified commercial applicators are briefed about location of protection areas. These areas are flagged or otherwise marked when necessary to aid in boundary identification. References: FSM 2526, 2527, 2245, and 2150. 4.8 - PRACTICE. Controlling Pesticide Drift During Application Objective - To minimize the risk of pesticide contaminating non-target areas. Explanation - Pesticide spray applications will be accomplished according to a prescription that specifies the following: areas to be left untreated, buffer areas, type of spray and associated materials, equipment and method to be used, droplet size, spray height, application pattern, flow rate, terrain and meteorological considerations. Hand application, with less associated risk, will have fewer application restrictions for drift control than aerial or mechanical application. Implementation - The prescription is prepared by an interdisciplinary team and the Forest or District Pesticide Use Coordinator during the NEPA process. The Line Officer is responsible for designating a project supervisor who is responsible for ensuring that the prescription is followed during application and for terminating application if the standards are violated. References: FSH 2150 and 2245. 4.9 - PRACTICE. Soil Protection During and Following Slash Windrowing Objective - To prevent removal, compaction, displacement, or severe disruption of the productive surface soil and to minimize losses from erosion. Explanation - Windrowing of woody debris is a common method of slash treatment removal and surface scarification in some areas. On slopes the material should be windrowed on the contour to act as a filter barrier, which catches sediment and detains runoff water. Great care must be taken to preserve the surface soil layer during the windrowing operation. Implementation - Recommendations on slash windrowing are identified during the NEPA process. This activity can affect soil productivity if not undertaken with care to protect the soil surface. Erosion and sediment delivery are also potential effects when surface conditions are not protected or when applied to steep slopes. This activity is not suited to wet soil conditions. Equipment should be checked for proper teeth length on root rakes and the shearing blades should be sharp to assure tree shearing with little root and soil disturbance. In some instances, breaks in windrows are needed to allow for water -100-

movement or for other reasons. The project supervisor is responsible for enforcing applicable management requirements. The CO is responsible for enforcing contract clauses. References: FSM 2520, 2530; see "Best Management Practice" Definition . 4.10 - PRACTICE. Soil Moisture Limitations for Tractor Operation Objective - To minimize soil compaction, displacement, puddling, rutting, rill and/or gully development with resultant sediment production and loss of soil productivity. Explanation - This measure minimizes surface disturbance during high soil moisture conditions that would result in compaction, displacement, puddling, rutting, rill and gully development or loss in the soil organic surface or A horizon. This practice reduces the need to correct these soil and water resource problems later. Soil erodibility, compactibility, climatic factors, soil/water relationships, and mass stability are factors that are used to evaluate tractor limitations during the NEPA process. Implementation - Contract provisions and management requirements for soil moisture limitations are identified during the environmental analysis in consultation with the forest and/or district soil scientist. The project supervisor and/or CO are responsible for determining when the soil surface is unstable and susceptible to damage and is then responsible for suspending or terminating operations. References: FSM 2522; see references in "BMP" Definition.

-101-

CHAPTER 5 RECREATION

-102-

RECREATION. Recreation on NFS lands falls into two general categories: developed and dispersed. Developed recreation describes the category associated with a discrete place containing a concentration of facilities and services used to provide recreation opportunities to the public as evidenced by a significant investment in facilities and management and under the direction of an administrative unit in the NFS. Examples are campgrounds where tables, fire rings, drinking water, toilets, electrical hookups, and other conveniences have been provided. Recreational residences, resorts, and other similar facilities are also considered developed recreation. Dispersed recreation describes the category associated with outdoor recreation use that occurs outside of developed sites. Facilities are however, sometimes required to protect resources, safeguard visitors, and disperse users. Dispersed recreation also includes the table-under-thetree type of facility, portable toilets in otherwise undeveloped area, trailheads, and trails. Contents of Practice 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 5.9 5.10 5.11 5.12

Recreation Facilities Planning Monitoring and Evaluation of Water Quality at Designated Swimming Sites Sanitary Surveys to Augment the Evaluation of Designated Swimming Waters Providing Safe Drinking Water Supplies Documentation of Drinking Water Quality Data Management of Sanitation Facilities Control of Solid Waste Disposal Assuring Proper Sanitation and Water Supplies for Special Use Facilities Sanitation at Hydrants and Water Faucets within Developed Recreation Sites Management of Off-Road Vehicle Use Protection of Water Quality within Developed Recreation Areas Protection of Water Quality within Dispersed Recreation Areas

5.1 - PRACTICE. Recreation Facilities Planning Objective - To minimize soil and water resource impacts from recreation development and management. Explanation - The development and management of recreation facilities has the potential for impacting soil and water resources. Site plans are prepared before construction, maintenance, rehabilitation and expansion of a site. Implementation - An interdisciplinary team identifies potential impacts to water quality and soil productivity during the NEPA, Design Narrative and Project Design processes. The NEPA process identifies mitigating measures needed to protect soil and water resources. The Design Narrative is a detailed description of the management objectives to be implemented by the site and facility design and provides guidance for the development of the preliminary design concepts by documenting the soils, topography, drainage, water resources and site limitations. The Project Design process conducts detailed site surveys and prepares site development plans to make sure mitigation measures are incorporated into the design (R8 Supplement 2300-93-2). Consideration -103-

should be given to appropriate location and design of facilities and to the secondary impacts due to continuing use. References: NFMA; NEPA; FSM 2330, 2332 2333, 2334, 2335, 2340; R8 Supplement FSM 2300-93-2; and FSH 2309.18 5.2 - PRACTICE. Monitoring and Evaluation of Water Quality at Designated Swimming Sites Objective - To ensure the health and safety of water contact recreational use at designated National Forest Swimming Sites. Explanation - The monitoring and evaluation for bacterial contamination of water quality is required at all designated swimming sites. Analysis values are tested against State Water Quality Standards for primary contact recreation. Implementation - As a part of SWCP 1.2, the water quality for swimming sites is monitored and evaluated. If State Standards are exceeded, the area will be closed to all contact recreation use until the cause or causes have been identified and remedied. Closure is the responsibility of the Forest Supervisor or the District Ranger References: FSM 2532 and 2335; State Water Quality Standards; 36 CFR 219, Subpart B. 5.3 - PRACTICE. Sanitary Surveys to Augment the Evaluation of Designated Swimming Waters and other waters commonly used by the public for swimming or water contact sports. Objective - To provide information regarding potential hazards or the cause of an existing problem that is health hazard. Explanation - This practice is designed to monitor and evaluate sanitary conditions relative to swimming and other water contact in high public use waters. Adjacent areas and the aquatic environment are examined to detect potential or existing health hazards. The survey provides information needed in defining the possible cause(s) of contamination when safety standards have been exceeded. Implementation - A sanitary survey will be made prior to the development of plans for each new swimming facility. All areas where swimming is specifically encouraged or permitted should have a sanitary survey as soon as practical. Subsequent surveys will be repeated periodically. Surveys can include both field and office investigations in land use, pollutant discharges, or other changes that may need field assessment. Results of the survey are documented and provided to the Forest Supervisor, District Ranger, and interdisciplinary team for evaluation and appropriate action. When needed, closure is the responsibility of the Forest Supervisor or the District Ranger.

-104-

References: FSM 2532; 2335; R8 Supplement 2300-93-2; and 36 CFR 219, subpart B. 5.4 - PRACTICE Providing Safe Drinking Water Supplies Objective - To provide safe drinking water to Forest Service facilities such as camping, picnic or swimming areas, trailheads, and visitor Information Centers. Explanation - Administrative guidelines for water source location and development; testing frequency and limitation for bacteriological, chemical, and physical contaminants; performance of sanitary surveys; closing, correction, and re-opening of defective water systems; and documentation of data are provided in the State Drinking Water Standards, and the FSM. If needed, permits will be acquired and maintained to provide public drinking facilities and a certified water supply operator may be used. Implementation - Location, design, sampling, and sanitary surveys will be performed by qualified professionals who are familiar with drinking water supply systems and requirements. Coordination and cooperation will be pursued with State and local health department representatives in all phases of drinking water system management. Preventive measures will be taken in the location, construction, operation, and maintenance of water supply systems to minimize possibilities of contamination and provide safe drinking water. Sampling and testing of drinking water quality will be required. If State and local health departments do not perform the water analysis, State approved laboratories must be used. When test results indicate that State Standards are exceeded, the water supply will be closed or treatment required until the problem is corrected and satisfactory results are obtained. Signs or other measures are used to notify publics that the system is closed or if appropriate, water must be boiled or otherwise treated before drinking, cooking, or similar uses. Seasonal systems will be tested and proven satisfactory prior to opening. References: Safe Drinking Water Act (P.L. 95-190); State Water Quality Standards; State Drinking Water Standards; 40 CFR Parts 141, 142, and 143; Health and Safety Code Handbook (FSH 6709.11); FSM 2332, 2333, and 7420; Southern Research Station General Technical Report SRS-39, Drinking Water from Forests and Grasslands – A Synthesis of the Scientific Literature. 5.5 - PRACTICE - Documentation of Potable Water Quality Data Objective - To ensure the availability of water quality data and related information when making analysis and interpretations with respect to potable water systems. Explanation - An inventory of the location of all designated potable water supplies will be prepared and maintained documenting pertinent site information such as dates and results of all water quality tests and surveys. This is an administrative practice of recordkeeping in order to establish a record of cause and effect, to aid in identifying any sources of contamination. It will be done as part of infrastructure management. Implementation - Forests will use the computer-based "Potable Water System Management Program" for site documentation. All laboratory results will be filed on the -105-

Forest for a minimum of 5 years. Data will be stored, edited, and summarized annually. These data may be stored in NRIS database for more long-term data records and management needs. References: FSM 2532, 7420. 5.6 - PRACTICE - Management of Sanitation Facilities Objective - To protect surface and subsurface soil and water resources from bacteria, nutrients, and chemical pollutants resulting from the collection, transmission, treatment, and disposal of sewage at Forest Service facilities. Explanation - Toilet facilities are provided at some recreation sites. The type and number depends on site development scale, utilization and the capacity of a given site. As part of facility design, sanitation facilities, which may vary from a vault toilet to a treatment plant, will be planned, located, designed, constructed, operated, inspected, and maintained to minimize the possibility of soil and water contamination. Implementation - The location, design, inspection, operation, and maintenance will as a minimum, meet existing State standards and Forest Service manual direction. Coordination and cooperation should be pursued with the State and local health departments. Disposal of sewage at designated sewage treatment plants will be required, when feasible. Where disposal at sewage treatment plants is not feasible, specially designated sites, and treatment methods will be developed by the design engineer. The design must meet the requirements of State regulations and may require consultation with state regulatory authorities. These areas will be identified in the disposal contract or agreement. If treated effluent is being designed for discharge into marine or fresh waters then a NPDES discharge permit from the state water quality agency or EPA may be required. Some waters may already be impaired by contaminants as identified on State 303d or 305b water quality lists. Other waters such as those used for shellfish harvesting may have sensitive species to protect, and may have very stringent treatment or contamination limits to meet. References: Water Developments and Sanitation Handbook (FSH 7409.11); FSM 2331, 2332, 2333, 7430, 7440, 7460; R8 Supplement 2300-93-2; 36 CFR 261.11. 5.7 - PRACTICE. Control of Solid Waste Disposal Objective - To protect surface and subsurface soil and water resources from nutrients, bacteria, and chemicals associated with solid waste disposal. Explanation - The users of NFS Lands are required to cooperate in the proper disposal of solid waste. Receptacles are provided for garbage and trash at most developed recreation sites. In allowable weather and low fire danger, campers may be able to burn combustible trash in fire rings or other suitable locations. Garbage and trash must be packed out by those who use dispersed and wilderness areas and where solid waste -106-

collection is not provided. Other NF users, including logging operators and special use permit holders must collect and dispose of their solid waste at approved facilities. If solid wastes are disposed on NFS lands, the established conditions for disposal must meet appropriate Forest Service, State, and EPA regulations. Implementation - Success depends on public support with some law enforcement if needed. The public education effort is a continuing process accomplished through the use by, signs, printed information, environmental education programs, mass media, and personal contact. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Subtitle D regulations for solid waste disposal (40 CFR 257 and 258) are "guidelines" for private facilities, but are mandatory for Federal facilities. Each National Forest will follow their solid waste disposal plan, which describes their collection, removal, and final disposal methods. Solid waste containers are placed in areas that are convenient for recreationists and are easily maintained. Locations are determined during site design. On-site enforcement may be necessary. The final disposal of collected garbage will be at a properly designed and operated sanitary landfill. Each landfill site will be located where groundwater and surface waters are at a safe distance as prescribed by State and local codes. In no instances are disposal of hazardous materials allowed. References: FSM 2323, 2332, 2333, and 7460; State and local codes; 36 DFR 261.11. 5.8 - PRACTICE. Assuring Proper Sanitation and Water Supplies For Special Use Facilities Objective - To protect the quality of water both consumed by and discharged from facilities under Special Use Permit. Explanation - Special Use facilities must comply with State and local sanitation and drinking water ordinances. Buildings and grounds will be supplied with at least the minimum sanitary facilities required by Federal, State, and local codes. Water systems must provide an adequate volume of acceptably pure water for drinking, cooking, and general sanitation. Structures designed with toilets, showers, and washbasins will be planned to serve the facilities needs and capacity. Implementation - Management controls and requirements protecting water quality through installation and maintenance of proper sanitation and water supply facilities will be incorporated into the Special-Use Permit for the facility. Permit holders are required to conform to all applicable Federal, State, and local regulations governing water quality and sanitation. Permit holders are required to inspect their facilities and test potable water supplies to ensure a safe water supply and proper sanitation. Copies of the test results will be provided to the appropriate Forest Officer, as specified in the Special-Use Permit. Facilities that fail to meet requirements will close potable uses, provide user warnings and alternative drinking sources such as bottled water until the system is properly functioning. Failure to comply with these responsibilities may result in permit cancellation or other actions. -107-

References: FSM 2342, 2343, and 2344 State Drinking Water Standards. 5.9 - PRACTICE. Sanitation at Hydrants, Fountains, and Water Faucets Within Developed Recreation Sites Objective - To maintain water quality standards around hydrants, fountains, and faucets which provide water for consumptive use in developed recreation cites. Explanation - This practice prohibits the cleaning or washing of any personal property, fish, animal, or food at a hydrant or at a water faucet not provided for that purpose. Acceptable designated areas for these non-drinking uses may be provided and will be located away from consumptive water sources and where effluent from the washing operation can be disposed of properly. The Forest Service must keep the public informed of their responsibilities concerning sanitary regulations and procedures. Implementation - The authorized Forest Officer will inform the public of their sanitary responsibilities by posting signs on bulletin boards or at hydrants fountains or faucets, by notices in newspapers, and by personal contact. On-site enforcement by the Forest officer may be necessary for violators. References: FSM 2334, 7410, 7420, and 7430; 36 CFR 261.11. 5.10 - PRACTICE. Management of Off-Road Vehicle Use Objective - To control Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) use that is causing adverse effects on soils, water quality, beneficial use(s) of water, and to identify corrective measures. Explanation - Areas or trails where ORV use is causing degradation of water quality, beneficial uses or soil resources including excessive rutting, displacement, puddling, erosion or productivity should be identified. Through M&E it will be determined if degradation exceeds acceptable limits, as defined by Forest Plans or evaluated by technical specialists. Implementation - Results of monitoring and evaluation will be used to determine if Forest Plan standards for soil and water resources and the management objectives for the area are being met. If significant disturbance is occurring or is likely to occur, corrective action will be taken. Significance is determined on a site-by-site basis using desired conditions, monitoring results, soil capability and suitability and beneficial uses(s) of water. Corrective actions may include, but are not limited to: redistribution in the amount of ORV use, relocation of trail, amend the direction in the Forest Plan, placement of signing or barriers to redistribute use, seasonal closing of areas or trails, rotation of use on areas, closure to causative vehicle types or total closure, increased maintenance schedule, and structural solutions such as hardening of site, broad based or rolling dips, addition of rock base, aggregate surfacing, compaction of fill areas, addition of erosion or sedimentation control structures, culverts and bridges. Closure is accomplished under authority of the Forest Supervisor. -108-

References: EO 11644, Use of Off-Road Vehicles on the Public Lands; EO 11989, OffRoad Vehicles on Public Lands; 36 CFR 295, Use of Motor Vehicles off Forest Service Roads; Prohibitions such as 36 CFR 261.12, 261.13; Orders such as 36 CFR 261.53, 261.55; FSM 2352, 2355, 2520; and R8 Supplement 2300-93-2. 5.11 - PRACTICE. Protection of Water Quality Within Developed and Dispersed Recreation Areas Objective - To protect water quality by regulating the discharge and disposal of potential pollutants. Explanation - This practice prohibits placing in or near a stream, lake, or other waterbody, materials or substances that may degrade water quality. The actual protection distance or buffer from discharge and from each water body is, at minimum, based on local conditions such as soil erosion, public access, site development scale, and Recreation Opportunity Setting (ROS). This includes, but is not limited to, human and animal waste, pet wastes, solid wastes, oil, and other hazardous substances. Areas may be closed in order to restrict use in problem areas. Implementation - Within developed sites, authorized Forest Officers will inform the public of their responsibility through signs, bulletin boards, newspapers or personal contact. Education or other means may be needed to handle water quality and sanitary problems associated with dispersed sites. Where practical, develop acceptable waste disposal sites. These should be maintained as needed, considering the levels of use. Waste facilities should be provided to handle use and disposal needs, or signing and education. Enforcement means will be applied to ensure that the waste materials are removed to a suitable waste facility or from the National Forest. Special sites that may involve hazardous substances as the lead in rifle ranges need to consider options of recycling or periodic liming of soil materials to assure that the lead remains as a participate and is not dissolved by rainfall infiltration that can move soluble pollutants into the groundwater. Forest officers can issue citations to violators. References: FSM 2332, 2333, 2334, 2335, 2502; and R8 Supplement 2300-93-2.

-109-

5.12 - PRACTICE. Protection of Water Quality Within Dispersed Recreation and Wilderness Areas Objective - To avoid slope erosion and trampling in riparian and wetland areas, and consequent loss of vegetation and degradation of water quality. Explanation - Dispersed recreation activities including trail use and camping in backcountry areas can cause considerable amounts of damage to soil and water resources depending both on the location being affected and the volume of traffic. Sensitive soils, riparian areas, and stream banks are particularly susceptible to damage from foot, horse, and mountain bike traffic and need special attention for construction of trails and/or campsites. Trails on steep slopes are also susceptible to erosion from runoff. This problem increases when users make shortcuts off the trail Implementation - In dispersed recreation areas where soil erosion or wet soil impacts are occurring due to heavy use, there is often a need to focus activities and/or "hardened" areas to prevent further erosion or soil impacts. Appropriate resource staffs must be involved in an interdisciplinary approach to resolving these problems. Constraints and requirements should be developed through the NEPA, Design Narrative, and Project Design processes. A variety of techniques can be used to harden trails and campsites in wet areas, and to reduce erosion on hillslopes including: a.

Gravel or chip overlay on filter fabric - gravel or chips may be overlayed onto wetlands on top of a geotextile filter fabric. This technique can provide a hard, well-drained surface on wetland areas. However, this activity may be regulated or require documentation under Section 404. If the wetland cannot be avoided and the measures are needed to mitigate existing problems, they probably will be approved as long as the surface and subsurface hydrology of the wetlands are maintained or improved.

b.

Boardwalks - timber boardwalks built on piers or pilings or directly on sills set on the ground are particularly effective for crossing wet areas or standing water. Tested for ground contact treated timber is needed to reduce effects of rot, but chemically treated piers can cause water quality hazards in open surface waters, and concrete, rock, steel, or fiberglass/plastic piers should be considered. Boardwalk should have a "no-slip" surface with railings and other safety measures

c.

Waterbars, dips, or diversions - trails with intensive uses can often entrench and become permanent pools or drainageways for water, causing serious rutting, displacement, soil puddling or erosion to occur over the trail surface. These areas also encourage off trail uses as some users try to avoid these areas and often create new ponded, entrenched, or rutted areas in the process. If the entrenchment is not too great, waterdips or diversions are used to divert water off the trail at frequent intervals. This reduces the volume and velocity of water on the trail, and can greatly reduce permanent sections of pooled trail, rutting or trail erosion.

-110-

d.

Railings - railings along with other design solutions can be effective for focusing foot, horse and mountain bike traffic onto the trail and keeping users from shortcutting down hillslopes, across riparian areas, streams or into wetlands areas and causing a variety of soil and water problems including those mentioned.

e.

Public Education/Interpretation - signing and/or pamphlets can be a useful technique for focusing foot, horse and mountain bike traffic and camping use into hardened areas and away from sensitive/erosive areas.

f.

Trails will be built according to Trails Handbook (FSH 2309.18) and references to similar activities in sections.

For contracted projects, compliance with both environmental analysis requirements and contract specifications must be assured by the CO or engineering representative and/or Forest Landscape Architect. As for public education efforts, this is a continuing process accomplished with signs, printed information, mass media, and personal contact. Public cooperation is vital. Pamphlets, brochures, and other material will be used to encourage public cooperation in protecting riparian areas, wetlands, water, quality, and soil conditions in dispersed areas. Forest officers can issue citations to violators. References: FSM 2320, 2323, 2350, 2502; R8 Supplement 2300-93-2; and FSH 2309.18, 2309.19

-111-

CHAPTER 6 MINERALS MANAGEMENT

-112-

MINERALS MANAGEMENT. The Forest Service's objectives in reviewing proposed mineral operations include ensuring that all mineral activities are conducted in an environmentally sound manner and that lands disturbed by mineral activities are reclaimed for other productive uses (FSM 2802). Mineral activities exist and are restricted by a variety of laws and regulations. Mineral (including oil, gas, and geothermal resources) exploration and development activities on NFS lands fall into the following categories: 1.

Leasable minerals - Activities authorized by the Mineral Leasing Act (MLA) of February 25, 1920, as amended and supplemented, provides for leasing of certain mineral and energy resources, including coal, oil, gas, geothermal, oil shale, potassium, sodium, and phosphate. The Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands of August 1947 makes the MLA of 1920 applicable to acquired Forest System lands. It also extends the applicability of the MLA of 1920 on acquired lands to minerals (such as metallic hard rock minerals, like gold and silver) that are considered "locatable" minerals when found on lands reserved from the public domain. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issues the permits or leases. The Forest Service administers the surface operations associated with these permits or leases.

2.

Salable Materials - Activities administered under the Materials Act of July 31, 1947, and several other Acts. Mineral materials such as sand, stone, gravel, pumice, cinders, and clay located in National Forest land may be disposed of by one of the following means: a. Free use to other government units and to nonprofit associations and individuals. b. Forest Service force account or contract to carry out Forest Service programs (for example, timber sale contracts). c. Sale to companies and individuals. Locatable Mineral Operations - Activities authorized under the General Mining Law of May 10, 1872, as amended. This law applies to most hard rock and placer mineral deposits on NFS lands reserved from the public domain. In the Southeastern Region, the General Mining Law of 1872 is applicable to only a few small areas in Arkansas and Florida.

3.

Mineral Reservations and Outstanding Mineral Rights - Activities authorized by the exercise of private mineral rights, which were retained in private owner conveyance or already existed as deed restrictions for some tracts of acquired Forest land.

Reclamation to reduce impacts to soil and water resources are required on and are standard operating procedures for all the types of mineral operations conducted on NFS lands. Reclamation planning involves considering a range of productive, post-mining lands uses. Reclamation to pre-disturbance conditions is one option. Other options include converting the site into a use that will benefit the multiple-use management objectives for the management area in which the site is located. For example, recreation emphasis may lead to options such as creating a campground, recreation parking, ORV area, target range, etc. Wildlife emphasis may lead to options such as creating a pond, wetland, wildlife opening, or other desirable wildlife habitat. However, in site conversions to other uses, the proposal must consider the likely results of the mining operation may or may not leave the site, even with reclamation efforts, in the -113-

condition necessary to make a responsible conversion to a desired use. In all Options, the appropriate design of soil and water conservation practices are included. Contents of Practice 6.1 Administration of BLM Issued Permits, Licenses, or Leases for Mineral Exploration and Extraction on NFS Lands 6.2 Administration of Forest Service Mineral Material Regulations (36 CFR 228C) for Disposal of Mineral Materials (Common Variety Minerals) 6.3 Administration of Mineral Reservations and Outstanding Mineral Rights Operations 6.4 Administration of Locatable Mineral Operations 6.5 Reclamation of Oil and Gas Well Sites 6.6 Reserve Pit Location, Design, Operation, and Reclamation 6.7 Oil and Gas Well Blowout Contingency Plan 6.8 Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation 6.1 - PRACTICE. Administration of BLM Issued Permits. Licenses, or Leases for Mineral Exploration and Extraction on NFS Lands Objective - To protect soil and water resource values during mineral exploration, extraction, processing and reclamation activities that are conducted on NFS lands under the terms of BLM prospecting permits, coal exploration licenses, and mineral leases. Explanation - Through the NEPA process, the Forest Service and BLM (BLM) make a determination as to whether or not a permit, license, or lease should be issued by the BLM. Forest Service and BLM develop the permit, license, or lease stipulations needed to protect water quality and other resource values. The lease/permits contain standard terms or conditions to protect soil and water. In addition, the Forest Service and the BLM review each lease to determine the need for any additional lease stipulation required for soil/water protection. After a lease is issued, if the lessee proposes to conduct any actual on-the-ground operations, additional Forest Service and BLM review and environmental analysis of the proposed operation is required. There are numerous BLM regulations and requirements that provide the legal authorities to protect soil and water resources during and after lease operations. In addition, Forest Service practices to protect soil and water resources (including reclamation requirements) are part of the review and approval process and are incorporated as needed in operating plans. Implementation - Detailed mitigative measures are developed by an interdisciplinary team during the environmental analysis and are written into the stipulations section of the permit, license, or lease. Scoping and comments are obtained to address public and internal issues. In most cases, a performance bond is required to cover the complete mitigation measures in case of non or inadequate performance. Conditions of approval are also developed by the interdisciplinary team to be included in the operating plan. Federal and state permitting may be required for some types of activities including section 401, section 404, NPDES or other permit(s) to be consistent with regulations or other direction. -114-

By interdepartmental agreement, all applications to lease lands under Forest Service jurisdiction are referred to the Forest Service for review, consent, and development of stipulations to protect the surface resources. The Forest Service inspects surface operations and deals with compliance relating to soil and water mitigating measures. Implementation is primarily by two interagency agreements (IA) between the BLM and the Forest Service. The IA provide the policy and procedures for Forest Service/BLM cooperation in the processing of BLM issued leases and permits to federally owned minerals on NFS lands, including NEPA compliance, and standard terms and stipulations on development and use. The IAs providesthe policy and procedures for Forest Service/BLM cooperation in the processing, approval, and supervision of leasable mineral operations on NFS lands. The agreement provides for NEPA compliance and the development and use of conditions of approval for lease operations. Through NEPA, special terms and conditions for the development of minerals are developed. The Federal Onshore Oil and Gas/Leasing Reform Act of 1987 provides the Forest Service with new authority in regard to oil/gas lease issuance and operations. The Forest Service has approval authority for lease issuance and for approval and enforcement of Surface Use Plans of operation including appropriate measures to protect water quality. References: Land Managers Handbook on Minerals Management (FSH 2809.11) and Minerals Planning Handbook (FSH 2809.12); FSM 2725, 2726, 2734, and 2820; Mineral Leasing Act (41 Stat. 437, as amended; 30 U.S.C. 181); Federal Coal Leasing Amendments Act (90 Stat. 1083; 30 U.S.C. 201 (b) and 207; 16 U.S.C. 1276); Federal Onshore Oil and Gas Leasing Reform Act of 1987. Act of March 4, 1917 (39 Stat. 1150, as supplemented; 16 U.S.C. 520); Section 402 of Reorganization Plan No. 3. of July 16, 1946 (60 Stat. 097, 1099; 5 U.S.C. Appendix); Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands August 7, 1947, (61 Stat. 913; 30 U.S.C. 351, 352, 354, 359) as amended by Public Law 167 and the Geothermal Steam Act (Public Law 91-581). 6.2 - PRACTICE. Administering Forest Service Mineral Material Regulations (36 CFR 228C) for Disposal of Mineral Materials (Common Variety Minerals) Objective - To ensure protection of water quality and other resource values when common variety mineral materials are used by the U.S. Forest Service and others. Explanation - Forest Service mineral materials regulations (36 CFR 228C) provide the mechanism for protecting soil and water resources in the disposal of mineral materials (such as gravel, stone, sand, aggregate, rip-rap, clay, etc.). Forest Service policy is to make mineral materials on NFS lands available to the public and to local, State, and Federal government agencies where reasonable protection of or mitigation of effects on, other resources is assured, and where removal is not prohibited. Use authorizations will require reasonable erosion control, rehabilitation, and revegetation of the surface. Removal may be approved if adequate measures can be accomplished to prevent erosion or stream pollution and satisfactory arrangements can be made for rehabilitation and restoration as outlined here. New road construction, if allowed, will be located, constructed, and maintained to protect the soil and water. Implementation - A project plan or Mineral Material Permit identifies the location and conditions of mineral material removal and disposal. Both will be preceded by an -115-

environmental analysis. Project location, the scope of the proposal, and detailed mitigative measures are developed using an interdisciplinary approach. Scoping and comments are obtained to address public and internal issues. The project or permit are approved by the District Ranger or Forest Supervisor. Compliance with the project design standards, the terms and conditions of the permit, and applicable Federal and State regulations are assured by the District Ranger or Forest Service representative. Mineral extraction sites can be evaluated for possible post-operation utilization as recreation, wildlife, or fisheries habitat. Decisions to authorize the disposal of mineral materials will conform to Forest Land and Resource Management Plans. Adequate measures must be taken to protect and minimize damage to the environment. Reclamation requirements are included for all pits and quarries. Water protection measures (including reclamation requirements) are identified during the review and environmental analysis of any proposed permit, contract, or plan for mineral materials. The authorized officer can deny approval of any permit or contract in which reasonable protection of, or mitigation of effects on, water resources (or other resources) cannot be assured. Review of proposed permits and contracts by interdisciplinary teams provides for development of contract or permit terms to protect water resources. References: 36 CFR 228, Subpart C; FSM 2725, 2726, 2734, 2814, 2817, and 2850; Minerals Program Handbook (FSH 2809.13) and Transportation Engineering Handbook (FSH 7709.11); Act of July 31, 1947 (61 Stat. 681), as amended by the Act of August 31, 1950 (64 Stat. 571), and the Act of July 23, 1955 (69 Stat. 367; 30 U.S.C. 601-603), and pursuant to the Act of June 11, 1960 (74 Stat. 205), and the Act of September 25, 1962 (76 Stat. 587). 6.3 - PRACTICE. Administration of Mineral Reservations and Outstanding Mineral Rights Operations Objective - To protect soil and water resources during mineral operations conducted in the exercise of private mineral rights on NFS lands. Explanation - When lands were acquired for establishing National Forests in the Southern Region, the mineral rights underlying these lands were not always acquired. In some cases, the mineral rights were reserved by the owner. In other cases, the mineral rights were owned by a third party. When an owner of mineral rights proposes mineral activities, the Forest Service coordinates with the owner to protect soil and water resources. Implementation - Reserved minerals are authorized under the terms and conditions of the deed, including the applicable Secretary of Agriculture Rules and Regulations. Outstanding mineral rights are authorized under the terms and conditions of the deed and applicable State law. The responsible Forest Officer reviews the operating plan and negotiates with the private mineral right owner to assure that it contains the necessary soil and water conservation practices. These practices include methods for controlling erosion, preventing water pollution, and reclaiming disturbed sites. In the case of reserved minerals, -116-

the Forest Officer may issue a permit with requirements for soil and water conservation practices. References: FSM 2830, 36 CFR 251.15. 6.4 - PRACTICE. Administration of Locatable Mineral Operations Objective - To protect water quality from degradation by physical and chemical constituents this may result from mining and associated activities. Explanation - Since a mining operation usually involves activities such as site clearance, excavation and road construction, SWCPs are included in Forest Service review and approval of such activities. Either a Notice of Intent or Plan of Operation and associated NEPA Analyses and documentation are needed in all cases. In addition, Bond or Guarantee to Perform Reclamation Work, Special Use Permit, Road Use Permit, State, and/or other Federal Agency Permits may be needed. A Notice of Intent to Operate (NOI) is required from those intending to conduct mining operations that have the potential to cause only minor disturbance of surface resources on NFS lands. After review of the NOI, the responsible Forest official determines the need for a detailed Plan of Operations. A Plan of Operations is required from operators when mining actions will likely cause a significant disturbance of surface resources, including surface waters. An environmental analysis by an interdisciplinary team is conducted to assess the impacts, develop mitigating measures, and plan for reclamation for the proposed Plan of Operations. The Plan must be approved prior to commencing any work. Implementation - The responsible Forest officer reviews the operating plan and assures that it contains the necessary protective practices. These practices include proper disposal of solid wastes, erosion control measures during road construction and maintenance, reclamation of disturbed sites, and prevention of hazardous substance spills. In addition, the operator may be required to furnish a security bond as a guarantee that reclamation work will be performed. With the "Notice of Intent," "Plan of Operations," and provisions in any "Special Use Permit" issued, the Forest officer checks for compliance with prescribed measures. Legal remedies are available if mutual cooperation fails. References: 36 CFR 228, 36 CFR 251, and 30 U.S.C. 612; NEPA; FSM 1950, 2725, 2726, 2730.3, 2734.3f 7720, 2810, 2817 and 2850; Land Managers Handbook on Minerals Management (FSH 2809.11) and Minerals Planning Handbook (FSH 2809.12). 6.5 - PRACTICE. Reclamation of Oil and Gas Well Sites Objective - To protect soil and water resources through the development of reclamation plans prior to the approval of an Application for Permit to Drill. Explanation - Reclamation of oil and gas well sites is necessary to protect the soil and water resources, both on- and off-site. Revegetation with plants or grasses, forbs, shrubs and trees that provide the best protective ground cover should be utilized to prevent erosion and stream sedimentation. Revegetation species should, however, be selected that provide for an immediate ground cover and allow for the re-establishment of the desirable species over -117-

the long-term. For both producing and non-producing well sites, reclamation will normally commence within the first growing season following completion of the drilling activities. In the case of a producing well site, only those portions of the site not required for production need be reclaimed. Any necessary drainage or erosion control structures to prevent erosion and degradation of water quality should be installed during rehabilitation of the site. Temporary roads used to access oil and gas well sites are also reclaimed and obliterated upon completion of their intended use. Implementation - Detailed erosion control and mitigative measures are developed by an interdisciplinary team during the environmental analysis and are incorporated into the Surface Use Plan of Operations. Many measures of how to accomplish drainage, erosion control and obliteration of roads can be found in the Timber Management and Roads and Trails sections in Cha application for permit to drill pters 2 and 3 and they are not duplicated here. Compliance with permits and the operating plan is assured by the District Ranger or Forest service representative. Condition for the surface use plan portion of operations the application for permit to drill are developed and enforced by the Forest Supervisor or District Ranger. Non-compliance with the technical drilling plan portion for the application for permit to drill is referred to the BLM for action. References: 43 CFR 3164; FSM 2840; SWCP 3.01 and 3.04; Oil and Gas Surface Operating Standards for oil and Gas Exploration and Development, 1989 U.S Department of Interior, BLM, and USDA, Forest Service; Surface Environment and Mining Reclamation User Guides; 36 CFR 228 E, Oil and Gas Onshore Order #1, 1983. 6.6 - PRACTICE. Reserve Pit Location, Design, Operation, and Reclamation Objective - To protect the quality of surface and ground water from degradation by physical and chemical contaminants originating from the construction and operation of reserve pits at drilling sites. Explanation - Under current technology, a reserve pit is normally utilized to collect, store, and recycle drilling fluids in oil and gas well drilling operations. Reserve pits must be located, operated, and reclaimed to prevent adverse effects on the surface and ground water resources. Implementation - An interdisciplinary approach during the NEPA process will develop and specify the project location, design features, operating requirements, mitigative measures, and reclamation needed. Compliance with permits and the operating plan is assured by the District Ranger or Forest Service representative. Reserve pits should be designed and constructed utilizing the following standards and adjusted to meet any state and local or other requirements that may apply: 1.

Reserve pits should be located in the cut portion of the drill pad and not in fill or mitigation at the edge of steep slopes.

2.

Measures may be required to insure the containment of drilling fluids where the reserve pit must be placed in a sensitive location or in porous material. These measures may consist of lining the reserve pit with an impermeable material substance -118-

such as plastic liner or bentonite or the use of a closed mud system. If any hazardous materials are included, they will be removed from the National Forest and properly disposed of in a hazardous waste facility. 3.

The pit should be constructed to prevent sloughing and to maintain the integrity of the liner. Fill material may be used and laid down to provide better consolidation than from natural, in-place materials.

4.

The use of non-toxic drilling fluids should be encouraged whenever possible.

5.

Dumping trash in the reserve pit will be prohibited.

6.

Reserve pit reclamation methods will be utilized that provide protection to both ground and surface water. Any solid or hazardous wastes will be properly disposed of in a suitable waste facility.

References: Oil and Gas Surface Operating Standards for Oil and Gas Exploration and Development, 1989, U.S. Department of Interior, BLM and USDA, Forest Service and Oil and Gas Onshore Order #1, 1983. 6.7 - PRACTICE. Oil and Gas Well Blowout Contingency Plan Objective - To protect soil, water and other resources from oil and gas well blowout impacts. Explanation - Although infrequent, uncontrolled emissions from oil and gas wells can occur. Fluids emitted can be oil, fresh water, salt water, or a combination thereof. A Well Blowout Contingency Plan is necessary in order to minimize impacts to soil and water resources. Implementation - Individual operators are required to provide Blowout Contingency Plans for emergencies. The plans must meet the following items: 1.

List of agencies, institutions, and persons to notify (SWCP 1.9).

2.

A "plan of attack" to handle the various levels of emergencies.

3.

Soil and water protection measures to be instituted while the blowout is occurring and immediately following the control of the well blowout.

4.

Established blowout or toxic spill damage assessment time gates and goals (SWCP 1.9).

5.

The framework necessary to establish an interdisciplinary team to rapidly respond, develop and implement a reclamation plan. These teams may include Forest Service, BLM, State members or possible consultants to help handle all the emergency aspects that could occur.

References: 43 CFR 3160; Surface Environment and Mining Reclamation User Guides. -119-

6.8 - PRACTICE - Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Objective - To reduce erosion and water quality degradation by sediment and toxic substances from abandoned mine lands and mining facilities through reclamation of these lands. Explanation - Reclamation is a required part of all mining operations on NFS lands. Aside from these mined lands that are routinely reclaimed, there are some mined lands which were abandoned decades ago, were acquired by land exchanges, or for other reasons are considered abandoned mine lands. Some of these abandoned mined lands may have sparse vegetation and, in some instances, produce acidic or toxic leachate which can contaminate groundwater or nearby streams. Abandoned mines are inventoried into the WIN, NRIS, and FFCP databases. Reclamation plans for reducing impacts to soil and water resources are developed for abandoned mines. Reclamation planning, involves, considering a range of productive, post-mining lands uses. Reclamation to pre-disturbance conditions is one option. Other options include converting the site into a use that will benefit the multiple-use management objectives for the management area in which the site is located. For example, recreation emphasis may lead to options such as creating a campground, recreation parking, ORV area, target range, snow play area, etc. Wildlife emphasis may lead to options such as creating a pond, wetland, or other desirable wildlife habitat. In all options, the appropriate design of soil and water protection measures is included, such as, surface drainage control. The downside of converting these areas to a special emphasis is the responsibility of managing and maintaining these areas may be included with those activities. Implementation - This practice is typically implemented through the development of an inventory of all abandoned mine lands, and for inclusion of those lands needing reclamation within SWCP 1.3. If a soil and water resource problem area is observed and documented, an interdisciplinary team will assess that abandoned mine site, develop the necessary actions to correct the problem, and integrate them into the Forest Planning process for funding and execution. The NEPA process will be followed in the planning and implementation of reclamation measures. The Forest Service should work toward inclusion of the more important abandoned mine lands in State inventories and reclamation plans, since both the State and the Office of Surface Mining (OSM) can provide funding for State projects. Include these areas in the Regulatory and Clinical Research Institute, CERCLA (Superfund), WIN, NRIS, and FFCP databases if appropriate. References: FSM 2522, 6740, 7442, 7443, and 7460; Watershed Improvement Handbook (FSH 2509.15); NFMA; Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation Control Handbook, office of Surface Mining; Surface Environment and Mining Reclamation User Guides.

-120-

CHAPTER 7 FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT IMPROVEMENTS

-121-

FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT IMPROVEMENTS. The Forest Service in Region 8 has been actively involved in implementing habitat improvement projects for both fish and wildlife. Fisheries. Fish habitat improvement projects in the Region can be split into three major categories: 1.

Development of Habitat Areas. These projects generally provide fisheries habitat in areas where no habitat currently exists by excavation of soils and/or gravels for the purpose of creating ponds. Coordination of these activities with other resource needs will ensure protecting the integrity of the ecosystem by utilizing the spoil for fill, roads, etc.

2.

Projects on existing surface water streams and lakes. These projects are designed to improve spawning/rearing habitat, or to improve accessibility of fish to unavailable habitat areas. These projects cover a wide spectrum of activities including but not limited to: removing stream barriers such as removing debris accumulations or replacing a culvert with an bridge or arched culvert; design of fish ladders, placement of steps in steep stream segments; placement of large woody debris or boulders into streams; minor alteration of channel configuration; construction of small dams; channel bank reinforcement on streams with eroding banks; and fertilization of lakes with very low nutrient values.

3.

Restoration of conditions to support historic extent and viability of native fish species. Non-native competitors may be removed, stocking these areas are prohibited, native local species may be placed by qualified professionals to restore lost communities, barriers that isolate these populations are provided, stream shading is increased by planting or retaining older vegetation in riparian areas, upstream pond or dams are retrofitted so surface releases of heated water do not occur in the summer months.

Although all the project types listed above have the potential for benefiting fisheries habitat (and therefore quantities of fish available), the projects may affect other beneficial uses and need to be accomplished in a manner to minimize erosion and degradation of water quality and to maintain or improve the hydraulic form and stability characteristics of the streams. Wildlife - Wildlife habitat improvement projects in Region 8 include: prescribed burns, plantings or seeding of appropriate browse species; thinnings, and fertilization, creation of waterfowl ponds, development of outflow regulation on ponds to adjust pond depth; and development of nesting islands and nesting boxes. Early successional habitats are sustained through natural forces including wildfire, tornados, hurricanes, and floods. Timber harvest, thinning, site preparation measures, prescribed burning, and construction or maintenance of wildlife openings. Fish and wildlife habitat improvement projects need to be accomplished in a manner that maintains soils, water quality, beneficial uses and the hydrologic functioning of watersheds, streams, floodplains, wetlands, and riparian areas.

-122-

Contents of Practice 7.1 Fish and wildlife Habitat Improvement Planning 7.2 Regulation of Gravel Extraction or Ground Reshaping for Development of Ponds 7.3 In Channel Excavation or Disturbance during Development of Fish and Wildlife Habitat Areas 7.4 Ground Fertilization for Wildlife Habitat Improvement 7.5 Lake Fertilization for Fish Habitat Improvement 7.1 - PRACTICE. Fish and Wildlife Habitat Improvement Planning Objective - To incorporate soil and water resource considerations into planning for fish and wildlife improvement projects. Explanation - The environmental analysis will include interdisciplinary analysis to evaluate the potential to reduce impacts associated with any developments in streams, wetlands, riparian areas, eroded or problems soil areas for impacts and cumulative effects on the soil and water resources. The environmental analysis will: (a) consider how to avoid or minimize potential soil, erosion, hydrology and water quality effects during and following construction or implementation of the project; (b include mitigation of effects for project areas where impacts are unavoidable; (c) identify environmentally sensitive areas where impacts from proposed changes cannot be mitigated to conform with standards and (d) address the effects of each alternative soil and water resources, and (e) be consistent with floodplain, wetland, coastal zone and other requirements including section 404 or 401 permits if needed. Implementation - Watershed and stream-flow characteristics, and estimates of the response of soil and water resources to proposed fish and wildlife improvement projects will be evaluated by an Interdisciplinary Team. Many instream, wetland and riparian projects require detailed hydrologic and/or soil evaluation, including determining extent of riparian, wetland, or floodplains areas; peak flow, low flow and flow duration estimates, current channel classification, soil limitations and productivity impacts for activities proposed, potential for channel, water quality or other impacts. Mitigation measures needed to protect soil and water resources should be identified. Project work will include provisions to meet water quality, soils, and other resource protection requirements as directed by the environmental analysis and include response to floodplain, wetland, soil productivity, water quality and other issues that may develop for specific project areas. References: FSM 2620, 2670 and 2630; individual Forest Plans; Federal CWA, Federal Water Pollution Control Act (Section 404), CZMA (Public Law 92-583), Threatened and Endangered Species Recovery Plans, Endangered Species Act (Public Law 93-205; and amendments), 33 CFR Parts 320-330) EO 11988, EO 11990. 7.2 - PRACTICE. Regulation of Gravel Extraction or Ground Reshaping for Development of Ponds Objective - To minimize sediment production from gravel extraction and/or ground reshaping during and following construction of ponds. -123-

Explanation - Development of ponds may involve excavation below the water table. Sediment production related to construction activities can be further limited by placement of temporary settlement basins, or filters such as hay bales and or filter fabric. Stabilization of pond and channel slopes can be accomplished through mulching, seeding, and/or planting (for example: willows, alders or other native species that can achieve desired results). Ponds developed for waterfowl habitat are, in some cases, unconnected to nearby streams. Such ponds generally do not pose water quality problems for adjacent stream systems. If these ponds have continuous flow releases or overflow during heavy rainfall events, then a protected overspill channel may be needed. Projects supporting some uses may need fecal coliform evaluation for surface discharge waters that cause water quality or beneficial use problems. Excavation of groundwater-fed ponds should be limited to areas out of the active floodplain and riparian area of adjacent streams. Flooding of these projects not only allows for large contributions of fine sediments, but also can cause physical damage or modifications to the stream channels and ponds themselves. If some flooding impacts are predictable for a project, then flood protection measures such as berms or dikes might be considered. These protection measures need to be designed and constructed to withstand major flooding events from adjacent streams. Implementation - Project feasibility, location, suitability, and the limits for disturbance and sediment or other pollutant production will be identified through the NEPA process using an interdisciplinary approach. Detailed mitigation measures are developed by the design engineer using criteria from the environmental analysis and through consultation with technical resource staffs when needed. Because of the variety of projects that could be included under this activity area, soil scientists, hydrologists, fish biologists, engineers, botanists, ecologists and other technical staff areas may need involvement to evaluate the complexities of these projects. Development of ponds will be coordinated with appropriate State and Federal Agencies. References: FSM 2511, 2505.1, and 2630; FSH 2609.24 (R10 Aquatic Habitat Management Handbook); Federal CWA (Public Law 95-217, Sections 401, 402 and 404), Federal Water Pollution Control Act, CZMA (Public Law 92-583), Forest Plans, Threatened and Endangered Species Recovery Plan, Endangered Species Act (Public Law 93-205 and amendments), 33 CFR Parts 320-330. 7.3 - PRACTICE. In-channel Excavation or Disturbance During Fish and Wildlife Habitat Improvement Projects Objective - To minimize stream channel disturbances and related sediment production during and after development of fish and wildlife habitat improvement projects. Explanation - During development of in-stream fish or wildlife habitat improvement projects, it may be necessary for construction equipment to cross, operate in, or operate near stream courses. Close coordination is needed on the projects to minimize damage to the stream and aquatic resources. In-stream work should be done during low flow periods whenever possible. Sediment control measures will be provided at construction sites in cases where construction activities would cause increased sedimentation and/or other deterioration relative to state water quality standards. Settlement basins or filters -124-

should be used to remove sediment from excess flows out of the construction area. Equipment use within a "live" stream channel should be limited to one crossing (one way) before a temporary or permanent drainage structure is in place and should not cause significant disturbance. Other protective measures such as temporary coffer dams required of road construction activities should be applied whenever equipment is expected in active stream channels for more than 2 days. Implementation - Project location and any needed mitigation measures are determined by the interdisciplinary team during the NEPA process. If construction work is contracted, all mitigation measures need to be explained within the contract. Compliance with the management requirements, contract specifications, and operating plans is assured by the CO or engineering representative. Water quality and channel condition changes are monitored. Activities are often regulated by Federal or State requirements under Section 401 Water Quality Certification of 404 of the CWA, EO 11988 and EO 11990 concerning floodplains and wetlands. When applicable, coastal zone and navigable water restrictions must also be addressed. References: FSM 2511, 2505.1, and 2630; Forest Plans Federal CWA (Public Law 95217, Sections 401 and 404), Federal Water Pollution Control Act, CZMA (Public Law 92-583). State Water Quality Standards, Threatened and Endangered Species recovery plan, Endangered Species Act (Public Law 93-205 and amendments); 33 CFR Parts 320330. 7.4 - PRACTICE. Ground Fertilization for Wildlife Habitat Improvement Objective - To minimize impacts to water quality in stream systems and lakes within and adjacent to areas being fertilized. Explanation - Fertilization is a technique used to improve the growth rates and viability of certain browse plants and micro-organisms. Fertilizers are generally designed to increase nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus within the soil. Calcium carbonate (lime) is sometimes used to reduce soil acidity. Fertilizers for the most part reside in the soil where they are available for plant uptake, however, some percent of these nutrients are washed off into streams during rainfall or snowmelt events, or dissolved into the groundwater and eventually come out in surface flows. Concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium within surface waters increase the growth of aquatic vegetation, particularly within lakes. Excessive levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in surface and groundwater can be harmful to fish, wildlife, and human users. High nutrient levels within lake waters cause undesirable algae and/or vegetation growth in the lake and reduce the "life" of the lake through eutrophication. Fertilizers should be applied at manufacturer recommended rates, or less. Direct application of fertilizers to surface stream and lake waters should be avoided unless specifically recommended by the interdisciplinary team or part of lake/pond fertilization program (see SWCP 7.5). Nutrient concentrations in surface water must not exceed State and Federal water quality standards. Implementation - Project location, application rates and frequency, and any needed mitigation measures for fertilization projects are determined by the interdisciplinary team -125-

during the NEPA process. Pre- and post fertilization soil and water quality monitoring should be done to evaluate nutrient concentrations in the soil and water. If fertilizer application is contracted, all mitigation measures need to be explained within the contract. Consult measures in 2.35 for other information on fertilization. Compliance with the management requirements, contract specifications, and operating plans is assured by the Contracting officer. Conditions where the fertilizer can be applied with limited effects to streams and downstream areas should be preferred. References: Federal CWA (Public Law 95-217), Coastal Zone Management Act (Public Law 92-583), State Water Quality Standard Regulations, State Drinking Water Regulations EPA - Quality Criteria for Water, 1976 forest plans, Threatened and Endangered Species Recovery Plan, Endangered Species Act (Public Law 93-205 and amendments), 33 CFR Parts 320-330. 7.5 - PRACTICE. Lake Fertilization for Fish Habitat Improvement Objective - To limit eutrophication in Forest lakes. Explanation - Fertilization can be used to improve the growth of aquatic fauna and flora within a lake and in turn increase fish productivity within the lake. Too much fertilization; however, can cause over production of unwanted vegetation within the lake and eventually can limit fish habitat. Lake fertilization needs to be carefully evaluated and monitored to assure that excessive nutrient levels do not result. Lake releases to streams can also affect water quality. Implementation - Project location, feasibility, suitability, application rates and frequency, and any needed mitigation measures will be identified through the NEPA process using an interdisciplinary approach. Pre-and post-fertilization water quality monitoring should be done on selected representative lakes to evaluate nutrient concentrations in the water. If fertilizer application is contracted, all mitigation measures need to be explained within the contract. Chemical materials shall be certified as free of impurities prior to use. Compliance with the management requirements, contract specifications, and operating plans is assured by the CO. Activities may require permits for 401 Water Quality Certification, especially if ponds or lakes discharge to downstream areas or other off-site impacts are concerns. Conditions where the fertilizer can be applied with limited effects to streams and downstream areas should be preferred. Pond or lake fertilization activities with no surface water discharges have fewer restrictions. References: Federal CWA (Public Law 95-217), CZMA (Public Law 92-583), State Water Quality Standards State Drinking Water Regulations EPA - Quality Criteria for Water, 1976; forest plans, Threatened and Endangered Species Recovery Plans, Endangered Species Act (public Law 93-205 and amendments), 33 CFR Parts 320-330.

-126-

CHAPTER 8 FIRE SUPPRESSION AND FUELS MANAGEMENT

-127-

FIRE SUPPRESSION AND FUELS MANAGEMENT. The priority of fire suppression on NFS Lands is to protect life and property both on and off site. Selected suppression activities will minimize erosion and the loss of soil productivity, and limit degradation of water quality. Suppression activities include hand or mechanical fireline and access road construction, firing operations, and fire retardant drops or use of foaming agents. Water quality, soil erosion, and productivity objectives are weighed with the need for rapid suppression during the development of suppression strategies. Since some watershed damage will likely result from suppression activities, an objective of the fire suppression program is to rehabilitate suppression-related damage. Cost of rehabilitation for areas that are damaged by the suppression efforts are covered by the fire suppression program. Fuels management activities are to: identify, develop and maintain fuel profiles that contribute to the most cost-efficient fire protection and use program to support the types and amounts of resource management directed in the Forest plan. Vegetation is manipulated by changing fuel type, creating fuel breaks, or by reducing or altering fuels over extensive areas. Fuels management is also concerned with the manipulation of dead fuels such as cull logs and slash. These materials may be utilized, removed, or burned to reduce fuel loading. Prescribed burning plans are developed for each burn area to achieve desired conditions and to assure management objectives are met. A Resource Advisor should be available to advise the Incident Commander on resource values during the suppression effort on major project fires. Watershed considerations shall be part of the Escaped Fire Situation Analysis prepared for all fires that escape initial suppression action. Contents of Practice 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5

Fire and Fuel Management Activities Formulation of Fire Prescriptions (Prescribed Fire Plans) Protection of Soil and Water from Prescribed Burning Effects Stabilization of Fire Suppression Related Watershed Damage Emergency Rehabilitation of Watershed Following Wildfires

8.1 - PRACTICE. Fire and Fuel Management Activities Objective - To reduce public and private losses, and/or subsequent flooding and erosion by reducing the frequency, intensity, and destructiveness of wildfire. Explanation - These administrative, corrective, and preventive measures include: (a) fuel reduction blocks; (b) access roads for rapid ingress and egress; (c) fire suppression activities; (d) fuel utilization and modification programs; (d) fire prevention and (e) public information and education programs. Implementation - Fuel Management is implemented through normal program planning, and budgeting, Forest Planning, and NEPA processes. Other resource areas such as Timber and Wildlife may initiate projects that also benefit Fire Management through fuel modification by the use of prescribed fire. Fuel management projects are evaluated by an interdisciplinary team to include: soil, timber, water, wildlife, fish, recreation, and fire staff representatives. The management objectives and requirements, and multiple resource protection prescriptions are documented through the NEPA process. Application of -128-

controls and prescriptions are the responsibility of the project officer, and these are often documented in burning, response, incident or other plans. References: FSM 1950, 2520,2530,2550, 5102, 5103, 5121, 5140, 5150.2, 5150.3, and 5151, FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains and Appalachian Mountains. 8.2 - PRACTICE. Formulation of Fire Prescriptions (Prescribed Fire Plans) Objective - To provide for soil, and water protection while achieving the resource management objective through the use of prescribed fire. Explanation - Prescription elements will include such factors as fire weather, expected fire behavior, slope, aspect, soil moisture, indicators(s) of drought and fuel moisture that influence the fire intensity. These elements have a direct effect on how much of the litter, duff and humus layers remains after burning. The amount of remaining litter and possible water repellency of the soil after burning can significantly affect erosion rates, water quality, and runoff volumes. Implementation - The prescription elements are defined by the interdisciplinary team during the environmental analysis. Field investigations are conducted to identify site-specific conditions which may affect the prescription. Both the optimum and tolerable limits for soil and water resource needs should be established. Monitoring and evaluation plans will be developed and implemented to determine if objectives have been met. Soil objectives include special care in eroded landscapes, retention of the duff and humus soil layers, keeping burn temperatures below 600 degrees C to avoid excessive volatilization of nitrogen, avoiding soil exposure and keeping subsurface soil temperatures low to protect soil microorganisms. Water objectives include treating roads and firelines with adequate surface drainage, erosion, and sediment control measures, and protecting the function of riparian filter zones. References: FSM 2520, 2525, 2530, 2550, 5140, 5150.3, 5151, 5153, FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains and Appalachian Mountains. 8.3 - PRACTICE. Protection of Soil and Water from Prescribed Burning Effects Objective - To maintain soil productivity, minimize erosion, and prevent ash, sediment, nutrients, and debris from entering surface water. Explanation - Substantial planning of activities is necessary to address soil and water issues that occur in locating, constructing, maintaining or obliterating firelines. Other types of effects must be addressed from the prescribed burning activity that relates to the removal of litter and sometimes other surface organic layers, nutrient and vegetation changes. Some of the effects relate to specific physiographic areas, Forests or site-specific conditions that exist. Prescribed fire plans are developed for burn treatments to insure that those involved in the implementation stages of work are aware of the resource protection and mitigation needs. -129-

Implementation - Forest Service and/or other crews are used to prepare the units for burning. This includes locating firelines away from sensitive soils, streams and riparian areas when possible, using hand lines when needed to avoid impacts, providing fireline surface drainage, reducing fuel concentrations, and monitoring fire weather. The interdisciplinary team identifies vegetation and soils with water repellent tendencies. Restrictions or limits are provided in the Vegetation Management Plans, BMPs, Forest Plan S&Gs or other areas. Some of these are detailed from FEIS-VM, ROD (page A-6) and include (a) do not burn on severely eroded soils that have less than one-half inch of litter and duff accumulation, (b) growing season underburns are not allowed twice in succession without an intervening dormant season burn, (c) burning restrictions within the SMZ, and (d) fireline restrictions in wetlands and savannahs. Some of the techniques used to prevent soil erosion and water quality degradation are: (a) construct water bars in temporary fire lines or permanent diversions, drainage dips and reverse grades for firelines that will be reused on burning cycles; (b) retain soil duff and humus layers (minimum acceptable is 80 percent of treated areas); (c) maintain the integrity of the riparian area and wetlands; (d) avoid damaging fires, which may promote water repellency, nutrient volitization, leaching, and erosion; (e) retain or plan to seed or plant sufficient ground cover to prevent erosion of the burned sites; and (f) removal of all debris added to stream channels as a result of prescribed burning preparation unless debris is prescribed to improve fisheries habitat. References: FSM 2520, 2530, 2550, 5140, 5142, 5150.3, 5151, 5153, FEIS and ROD's for Vegetation Management for the Coastal Plain/Piedmont, Ozark/Ouachita Mountains and Appalachian Mountains. 8.4 - PRACTICE. Stabilization of Fire Suppression Related Watershed Damage Objective - To stabilize all areas that have been significantly disturbed as a result of wildfire. Explanation - Treatments for fire-suppression damages include, but are not limited to: (a) installing water bars and other drainage diversions in fire roads, firelines, and other cleared areas; (b) seeding, planting and fertilizing to provide vegetative cover; (c) spreading slash, mulch or manufactured erosion control logs to protect bare soil; (d) repairing damaged road drainage facilities; (e) clearing stream channels of debris deposited by suppression activities and (f) repairing stream channel damaged by suppression activities; (g) restoration of plowlines in wetlands/lowlands to eliminate the channeling, ponding or draining of these areas. Implementation - This work is done by the fire fighting forces either as a part of the suppression effort or before personnel and equipment is taken off the fire lines. The Incident Commander is responsible under the direction of the local Line officer for mitigation of suppression related resource impacts. The activities are outlined in a Rehabilitation Plan prepared by the Incident Commander. On large wildfires, this plan is a written formal document. References: Burned-Area Emergency Rehabilitation Handbook (FSH 2509.13); -130-

FSM 2523 and 5130.2. 8.5 - PRACTICE. Emergency Rehabilitation of Watersheds Following Wildfires Objective - To minimize the loss of soil and on-site productivity, the deterioration of water quality, and threats to life and property, both on-site and off-site. Explanation - Burned Area Emergency Rehabilitation (BAER) includes emergency response to consider rehabilitation needs as a corrective measure on moderate to severe wildfires that may involves a variety of treatments that are specific to the conditions as a result of the wildfire. Wildfire can produce a wide variety or effects that relate to the weather conditions, temperature, fuel loading, and topographic conditions of the burn. Severe burns can remove soil surface organic layers including litter, duff and humus and sometimes volatizing organic components in the surface soil A horizon. Under the most severe conditions, sand particles can be fused and surface soil structure can be heavily damaged. Non-wettable layers may develop on the soil surface that restrict water infiltration and can cause surface water movement and erosion. Volatilization of much of the surface soil nitrogen as well as loss of soil microorganisms and michorrizae are likely under these circumstances. As intensity and duration of the wildfire decreases, so do effects. Treatments in Region 8 of seeding, fertilizing, mulching, etc. are determined by season of the year, intensity of fire, and physiographic area. Treatments are selected on the basis of, site-specific damage to soil, vegetation, streams and other conditions. Downstream values, probability of successful implementation, rate of natural recovery compared to treatment, social and environmental considerations, and cost as compared to benefits are considerations. Implementation - Burned-area surveys and analysis of BAER teams are performed promptly as the last stage of emergency response to the fire to determine if watershed rehabilitation treatment is needed. The burned-area survey shall be completed by an interdisciplinary team, which includes a hydrologist, a soil scientist, and other technical resource staffs, as needed. They are typically designated prior to the fire season and trained in BAER procedures in order to be ready and familiar with Forest Service policy, direction, and treatment measures. The survey and proposed rehabilitation treatment measures will be accepted by the responsible line officer and delivered to the Regional Office for approval within 5 days of control of the fire. The objective of the project is to identify and stabilize conditions that will likely produce severe watershed erosion, landform instability, or downstream effects before damaging storms or conditions occur. Losses that need replacement are those that prevent erosion, concentration of stormflows, promote rapid plant growth and initiate recovery of soil, plant, and hydrologic conditions. Without treatment, added years or decades would be needed to achieve recovery and the risk of environmental damage is much greater. Rehabilitation projects are monitored and evaluated following major storms and runoff events and at least annually until the watershed is stabilized. The evaluation determines the effectiveness of the rehabilitation measures and indicates if follow-up actions are needed. Funding commitments are covered by the suppression plans, and through budget planning projections. Treatments are specially designed and specific to the conditions and may include: (a) seeding native or suitable non-native grasses, other vegetation, fertilizer and mulch to provide a rapid, protective soil cover and replace nutrient loss for continued and sustained vegetative recovery; (b) placement of logs or woody debris either singly or in windrows, -131-

coir logs or silt fences on the contour to disperse flows and capture sediments; (c) clearing loose debris from stream channels, (d) replace loss in streambank and adjacent riparian vegetation needed for channel stability with cordones, live tree stakes, (e) smooth plowlines in wetlands/ lowlands under dry conditions to eliminate the rutting, entrenchment, channeling, ponding, draining or hydrologic modification of these areas, (f) stabilize areas of active slope failure or high potential by planting cordones, live tree stakes, installing geotechnical treatments to dewater subsurface flow. In situations where NFS and other intermingled lands are involved in similar emergency rehabilitation efforts from large wildfires, interagency rehabilitation teams, if applicable, may be requested to conduct burned area surveys. Prior coordination and agreements are necessary to ensure each landowner's needs and objectives are met. References: FSM 2523 and 2323.43b; 2525; Burned-Area Emergency Rehabilitation Handbook (FSH 2509.13).

-132-

CHAPTER 9 RANGE MANAGEMENT

-133-

RANGE MANAGEMENT. Range management involves range and resource analysis, vegetation management, allotment management planning, and a grazing permit system. It includes controlling overall livestock numbers and season of use, controlling livestock distribution, structural and non-structural improvements, providing for wildlife needs, and restoration of deteriorated rangelands. Contents of Practice 9.1 Range Analysis, Allotment Management Plan, Grazing Permit System, and Permittee Operating Plan 9.2 Controlling Livestock Distribution 9.3 Rangeland Improvements 9.1 - PRACTICE. Range Analysis, Allotment Management Plan, Grazing Permit System and Permittee Operating Plan Objective - To maintain and protect soil and water resources through sustained forage production and managed multiple use of range forage. Explanation - An analysis of potential and/or existing range are conducted by an interdisciplinary team to evaluate productive capabilities, inherent hazards, resource values, and uses. Based on this analysis, the Forest Service, in cooperation with the permittee and other users, prepares a written allotment management plan and issues a permit to authorize livestock grazing as per stipulations in the plan. These documents include measures to protect other resource values, such as soil productivity, water quality, riparian areas and wetlands, and to coordinate livestock grazing with other resource uses. Specific methods for controlling when, where, amount of utilization, and numbers of livestock to be grazed are covered in the plan. Rangeland improvements and an implementation schedule are also included. Permittees are required to contribute a portion of the cost of new improvements and to maintain the existing improvements on an allotment. Implementation - A permittee operating plan is prepared, reviewed and revised annually to reflect direction in the allotment management plan, to account for current allotment conditions and trends, and to adjust for unexpected resource problems (e.g., drought, placement of stream on 303d list due to elevated fecal coliform and nutrient levels). Interdisciplinary input and NEPA evaluation with mitigation measures identified should be included for new permits or in instances when not conducted in the past. The amount of livestock use is typically determined primarily through measurement of vegetative utilization, but other measures as streambank damage, site erosion, elevated fecal coliform levels and loss or shift in aquatic habitat should be considered. Allowable use is determined by research, vegetative trends, experience, and ability to keep critical resources intact. The permittee carries out the plans under the direction and supervision of the District Ranger or Forest Service representative. Corrective action or permit denial is taken if a permittee does not comply with grazing permit conditions designed to protect the soil and water resources.

-134-

References: FSM 2203, 2204, and 2323.2 - .24; Range Management Information System Handbook (FSH 2209.12), Grazing Permit Administration Handbook (FSH 2209.13), and Service-wide Range Analysis and Management Handbook (2209.14); NEPA. 9.2 - PRACTICE. Controlling Livestock Distribution Objective - To maintain and protect soil and water resources including riparian areas through controlling livestock distribution. Explanation - Livestock use within allotments is typically not uniform due to variations in topography, water availability, vegetation type, and forage condition. Several techniques are used to achieve proper livestock distribution and reduce the impact on areas that are sensitive or naturally overused. These techniques include: 1.

Construction of fences to restrict access to riparian and stream areas, and implementation of seasonal or pasture systems of management.

2.

Construction and placement of watering tanks or developments in suitable areas, maintenance of developments, and closure of water developments when appropriate.

3.

Placing salt or supplements away from water in forage areas with light grazing use to attract livestock.

4.

Completing range improvements such as fertilization, prescribed burning, or seeding. Native plants are preferred or desired non-native species that are not on the Region 8 Category 1 Invasive Exotic Plant List can be used. Range improvement should consult comparable SWCPs and treatments in other areas of this Guide.

5.

Moving livestock when prescribed utilization levels are reached.

Livestock distribution needs are determined through evaluations of range conditions and trends, including utilization studies. Implementation - Livestock distribution practices are carried out by the permittee under supervision of the District Ranger or Forest Service representative. Soil and water review and monitoring of activities occur when activities are located within riparian areas, streamside management areas of perennial, intermittent or scoured ephemeral channels, wetlands, eroded, low site landscapes or any other sensitive soil/water area. Range activities that occur within impaired or impacted streams on 303d or 305b water quality lists for fecal coliform, excessive nutrients or increase in pollution tolerant macroinvertebrates should receive special attention and evaluation to assure that pollutant contributions are reasonable and not unnecessarily impacting water quality and aquatic habitats. References: FSM 2210, 2230, 2240, 2250, and 2323.25; Service-wide Range Analysis and Management Handbook (FSH 2209.14) and Range Analysis and Management Handbook (FSH 2209.21).

-135-

9.3 - PRACTICE. Rangeland Improvements Objective - To maintain and protect soil and water resources through the use of rangeland improvements. Explanation - Rangeland improvements are used to improve management and restore or improve forage quality, quantity, or availability. These may consist of providing rangeland rest and/or deferment through rotation grazing, fencing, or lighter grazing use by changing the grazing season, kind, class, or permitted number of livestock. Other measures may include stream channel stabilization, gully plugging, grassed waterways, water diversions or terraces, rock treatments or checkdams, reseeding and/or fertilization. Fencing livestock from streams and riparian areas are often a desired improvement that provides soil and water benefits. Invasive exotic plants may be treated or otherwise removed or reduced in extent or viability. Water developments may be considered and included in rangeland improvement projects. Improvement efforts are directed at increasing the productivity of the range and protect soil and water resources, beneficial uses and aquatic habitats. All range water improvements constructed should protect the water quality of both surface and ground water sources, channel stability, aquatic habitats and beneficial uses of streams. Some of these improvements can receive cost sharing under USDA NRCS programs. Developments or alterations in streams, wetlands, navigable or other waters of the United States may also be subject to 401 Water Quality Certification Permits or 404 permits under the CWA. Conditions that support concentrated flow from activities or discharges from animal concentration areas or wastes collection facilities may need stormwater or NPDES permits from the State. Implementation - The permittee is a cooperator in rangeland improvements and may complete the work under Forest Service direction. Implementation may also be done by Forest Service crews. Range improvement needs are recognized in the Range Allotment Planning Process and are scheduled for implementation in the allotment management plan. An interdisciplinary team provides consultation and help in the development of improvement programs and NEPA analysis is conducted as appropriate to address environmental issues. References: FSM 2210, 2240, 2250, and 2323.26; Structural Range Improvement Handbook (FSH 2209.22) and Nonstructural Range Improvement Handbook (FSH 2209.23); SWCP 1.02 and 1.03.

-136-

CHAPTER 10 LANDS

-137-

LANDS MANAGEMENT. Lands management involves a variety of practices involved with the ownership; adjustment, including acquisition, exchange, conveyance; and special uses of the NFS lands. Other activities such as mineral and range management may be included under the lands management area (Chapters 6 and 9). Contents of Practice 10.1 Ownership Activities 10.2 Landownership Adjustments 10.3 Special Uses 10.1 - PRACTICE.

Ownership Activities

Objective - To maintain and protect soil and water resources during ownership activities. Explanation - Several types of ownership practices occur including boundary survey and marking, removal of waste, unwanted buildings, and other materials. These activities include measures to protect other resource values, such as soil productivity, water quality, riparian areas including floodplains and wetlands. Implementation - Interdisciplinary input and NEPA evaluation with mitigation measures identified should be included for the ownership activities that will impact soil and water resources. Boundary marking painting and disposal of containers will have similar restrictions to those used to mark trees or similar activities. Appropriate sanitation measures will be undertaken to protect water quality and human health. If hazardous materials are involved, appropriate measures will be taken to safely remove materials to protect soil, water and associated resources. References: 36 CFR 251.11. 10.2 - PRACTICE. Landownership Adjustments Objective - To maintain and protect soil and water resources during landownership adjustment activities. Explanation - Several types of landownership adjustments are possible including land exchanges and conveyances of small tracts. Landownership adjustments are generally discretionary. An analysis of each adjustment proposal has interdisciplinary input to help evaluate conditions. Documentation may include the delineation, extent and likely effect on resource values, including soil productivity, water quality, and riparian areas including floodplains and wetlands. The analysis helps to clarify the effects so the decision maker can more effectively decide whether to proceed or not. Implementation - Interdisciplinary input and NEPA evaluation with mitigation measures identified should be included for landownership adjustment activities that will impact soil and water resources. For the nonfederal lands in an exchange, the NEPA analysis should fully disclose the current condition of the land and if additional federal dollars will need to be spent to bring the nonfederal lands up to federal standards in regards to soil and water related issues. In some instances, an exchange may be conditioned upon meeting State -138-

BMP, removing hazardous materials, etc. Both positive and negative impacts may be involved when considering adjustments. Activities that convey wetlands or potentially have an impact to floodplains are included in the analysis. If hazardous materials are involved, appropriate measures will be undertaken to determine the extent, liabilities and costs involved in safely removing or stabilizing materials to protect soil, water and associated resources. Condition and status of any facilities such as dams, roads and other improvements should be described to insure that any liabilities are understood. References: 36 CFR 254.3, EOs 11988 and 11990 on Floodplain and Wetland Management. 10.3 – PRACTICE. Special Uses Objective - To protect soil and water resources from impacts resulting from special use permitting activities. Explanation - All uses of NFS lands, improvements, and resources except those provided for in the regulation governing the disposal of timber (36 CFR 233), minerals (36 CFR 228), and the grazing of livestock (36 CFR 222), are designated “special uses.” Some examples are: hydropower plants, water systems, oil and gas pipelines, communication sites, road easements, electrical transmission lines, organization camps, resorts, marinas, outfitting and guiding services, recreation residences, and military training. Before engaging in a special use, persons or entities must submit an application to an authorized officer to obtain a special use authorization. SWCPs are implemented in an attached operating or resource management plan. Implementation - The special use permitting process requires interdisciplinary evaluation. The special use permit under which agencies, companies, groups, or individuals operate, will detail the conditions including SWCPs required for operation. The permit holders are required to conform to all applicable Federal, State and local regulations including Forest Plan guidance governing water quality, erosion control, sanitation, protection of beneficial uses, etc. Failure on the part of the permit holder to meet the conditions of the special-use permit may result in the permit being revoked or other actions to compensate for resource loss. Due to the variety of activities that could potentially be proposed under special use, the IDT should review SWCPs under other chapters that apply to the activities being proposed or implemented. Consultation with technical specialists should be utilized when formal SWCPs or BMPs have not been developed for activities. References: FSM 2700 and 2300, FSH 2709.11, FSH 2709.12, and 36 CFR 251, subparts B, C and D.

-139-

ABBREVIATIONS BLM BMP CERCLA CFR CO CWA CWE CZMA DC EO EPA FAR FFCP FSH FSM IDT M&E NEPA NFMA NFS NPDES NPS NRCS NRIS ORV R-8 SPCC SWCP SMZ TMDL USDA WIN WQS

Bureau of Land Management Best Management Practice Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act Code of Federal Regulations Contracting Officer Clean Water Act (1987) Cumulative Watershed Effects Coastal Zone Management Act Desired Conditions Executive Order Environmental Protection Agency Federal Acquisition Regulations Federal Facilities Compliance Program Forest Service Handbook Forest Service Manual Interdisciplinary Team Monitoring and Evaluation National Environmental Policy Act National Forest Management Act and/or Regulations National Forest System National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Nonpoint Source (Pollution) Natural Resources Conservation Service Natural Resource Information System Off Road Vehicle Region 8 (Southern Region Spill Prevention Control and Counter Measure Soil and Water Conservation Practice Streamside Management Zone Total Maximum Daily Load U.S. Department of Agriculture Watershed Improvement Needs Database Water Quality Standards

-140-

GLOSSARY OF TERMS Area Transportation Plan: A plan that identifies the transportation facilities needed to manage the lands and resources for a given area. Aquatic Ecosystems. The stream channel, lake or estuary bed, water, and biotic communities and the habitat features that occur therein. (FSM 2526). Baseline Data: Data representative of a particular base period or concurrent control sample. Normally representative of the undisturbed or undeveloped state. Beneficial Use: Actual or reasonable potential use that may be made of the waters of the state, including but not necessarily limited to domestic, municipal, agricultural, and industrial supply; power generation; recreation; esthetic enjoyment; navigation; propagation and enhancement of fish, wildlife and other aquatic resources; and maintenance of indigenous aquatic life. BMP: A practice or a combination of practices, that is determined by a State (or designated area-wide planning agency) after problem assessment, examination of alternative practices, and appropriate public participation to be the most effective and practical means of preventing or reducing the amount of pollution generated by nonpoint sources to a level compatible with water quality goals (40 CFR 130.2(q)). The term "Best Management Practices," or BMP, is a legal term relating to practices used for the protection of water quality. Methods, measures, or practices used to prevent or reduce water pollution, including, but not limited to, structural and nonstructural controls and operation and maintenance procedures. Usually, BMPs are applied as a system of practices rather than a single practice. BMPs are selected on the basis of site-specific conditions that reflect natural background conditions and political, social, economic, and technical feasibility. (Nonpoint Source Task Force Report, 1985). For Federal Lands, a BMP is site specific (Northwest Indian Cemetery Protective Association, et. al. V.R. Max Peterson (G-0 Road Decision), no. 83-225, Ninth Circuit). Biotechnical stabilization Methods that use natural living and inert elements to reinforce and stabilize slopes. (See also Soil Bioengineering) Carrying Capacity: (Recreation): The amount of recreation use an area can sustain without deterioration of site quality; (Wildlife): the maximum number of animals the habitat can support during a given period of the year; (Range): The maximum stocking rate possible without damaging the vegetation or related resources. Carrying capacity may vary from year to year on the same area due to fluctuating forage production. Cross Drain/Ditch: A rolling or broad based dip, water bar, lead off ditch, or diversion ditch or terrace constructed to intercept surface water runoff and divert it to a stable filter zone and disburse it before the runoff increases to erosive volumes and velocities. Crowning: Forming a convex road surface, which allows runoff to drain from the running surface to both sides of the road prism. -141-

Cumulative Effect: The impact on the environment which results from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, regardless of what landowner, agency or person undertakes such other action (40 CFR 1508.7). Degraded Watershed: A watershed or drainage unit that has suffered environmental damage, resulting in accelerated soil, water or vegetative loss, loss of hydrologic function, chemical contamination or other quantifiable detriment of soil, water or other resources. Designated Streams: A stream or portion of a stream identified as warranting special consideration in management decisions and project activities. See also Stream or Streamcourse. Ephemeral streams are typically defined by flows that occur for short periods-of-time in direct response to storm precipitation or snowmelt runoff. Ephemeral stream bottoms are always above the water table and do not contain fish or aquatic insects that have larvae with multiple-year life cycles. Ephemeral streams may or may not have a defined channel, but may be manifested as a natural swale or depression with vegetation and organic material covering the bottom. Ephemeral streams may serve as a conduit for sediment that enters the stream system. Ephemeral streams that exhibit an ordinary high watermark, show signs of annual scour or sediment transport, may be considered waters of the United States (33 CFR 328). Floodplains are lowland or relatively flat areas joining inland and coastal water including at a minimum that area subject to a 1-percent (100-year return period) or greater chance of flooding in any given year (EO 11988, Floodplain Management and FSM 2527, Floodplain Management and Wetland Protection). Although floodplains and wetlands fall within the riparian area, they are also defined separately. Hydric soils have characteristics that indicate they were developed in conditions where soil oxygen is limited by the presence of saturated soil for long periods during the growing season. The Natural Resource Conservation Service lists all hydric soils and their descriptions found in the United States. Hazardous Substances: Materials which are toxic or dangerous to handle or dispose of, such as radioactive materials, petroleum products, pesticides, chemicals, and biological wastes. In-Service: Pertains to activities, actions or personnel within the USDA Forest Service. Interdisciplinary Team: A group of individuals from various disciplines or with different skills appropriate to address issues or problems identified. The team is assembled out of recognition that no one scientific discipline is sufficiently broad or technically suited to adequately address resource issues or problems. The members of the team proceed to address issues, determine alternatives that help solve issues, determine effects, design mitigation and recommend solution with frequent interaction. Line Officer: Management personnel within the Forest Service organization consisting of: Chief of Forest Service, Regional Foresters, Forest Supervisors, and District Rangers. Refers to the agency direct line of authority and responsibility that is under the Secretary of Agriculture.

-142-

In-stream flow: The presence of adequate streamflow in channels to maintain the integrity of the stream channel and protection of downstream beneficial uses such as fish and wildlife needs, outdoor recreation uses of water, and livestock watering needs. Intermittent streams flow in response to a seasonally-fluctuating water table in a well-defined channel. The channel will exhibit signs of annual scour, sediment transport and other stream channel characteristics, absent perennial flows. Intermittent streams typically flow during times of elevated water table levels and may be dry during significant periods of the year, depending on precipitation cycles. Field identification of intermittent streams must consider geology, land use patterns, and precipitation cycles. Intermittent streams do not maintain fish populations year around or aquatic insects that have larvae with multi-year life cycles. Large woody debris (coarse woody debris) is wood within a stream channel that contributes to habitat complexity. Large woody debris forms pools, encourages scour from stream banks, provides complexity, partitions the water column and provides cover for aquatic species. Large woody debris serves as a refuge for fish and the hard substrates and associated invertebrate production is an important food source. Large woody debris also influences flow velocity, channel shape and sediment storage and routing. Liquidification: The process of soil puddling, whereby a soil obtains the properties of liquid when disturbed. The result is generally a total loss of soil structure. Log Landing: An area where logs are skidded or yarded for temporary storage, prior to loading and transportation to a mill. Mitigate: To offset or lessen real or potential impacts or effects through the application of additional controls or actions. Measures used to reduce or eliminate undesirable results. Monitoring: The periodic evaluation of resources or activities on a representative sample basis to establish long-term trends, assess the impacts of land management activities, determine how well objectives have been met, and check compliance with established standards. NEPA Process: All measures that is necessary for compliance with the requirements of section 2, and Title I of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) are found in 42 U.S.C., sections 4321 et seq. Nonpoint Source (Nonpoint Source) Pollution: Diffuse sources of water pollution that originate from generally dispersed, indefinable sources and normally include agricultural and urban runoff, runoff from construction activities, and so forth. In practical terms, nonpoint sources do not discharge at a specific, single location (such as a single pipe). Nonpoint source pollutants are generally carried over or through the soil and ground cover via stormflow processes. Unlike point sources of pollution (such as industrial and municipal effluent discharge pipes), nonpoint sources are diffuse and can come from any land area. The following silvicultural activities are potential nonpoint sources of pollution: nursery operations, site preparation, reforestation and subsequent cultural treatment, thinning, prescribed burning, pest and fire control, harvest operations, surface drainage, and road construction and maintenance from which there is natural runoff (40 CFR 122.27).

-143-

NPDES Permit: Point source wastewater discharge permit that is issued through a state or EPA as part of the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System regulations. Normal Operating Season: A portion of a year when normal timber harvesting or other operations are expected to take place uninterrupted by adverse weather conditions. Ordinary high water mark: The line on the shore established by the fluctuation of water, and is indicated by physical characteristics such as a clear, natural line impressed on the bank, shelving, changes in the character of soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter, debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding area (33CFR 328.3(e)). The US Army Corps of Engineers Final Notice of Issuance of Modification of Nationwide Permits, March 9, 2000 defines ephemeral streams that have an ordinary high water mark as a water of the United States and therefore is subject to permitting requirements under section 404. Outsloping: Shaping a road to cause drainage to flow toward the outside shoulder (generally the fill slope), as opposed to insloping which encourages drainage to flow to the inside shoulder (generally the cut slope). Emphasis is on avoiding concentrated water flow. In some cases, outsloping included broad based dips to insure that wheel tracks will not concentrate road drainage for excessive distances on the road surface. Perennial stream: Any watercourse that generally flows most of the year, in a well-defined channel and is below the water table. Droughts and other precipitation patterns may influence the actual duration of flow. Perennial streams contain fish or aquatic insects that have larvae with multiyear life cycles. Water-dependent vegetation is typically associated with perennial streams. Permittee or Permit Holder: Individual or entity that uses NFS resources by permit from the Forest Service. Pesticide: A general term applied to a variety of chemical materials including insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and rodenticides. Point Source Pollution: Originating from a discrete, identifiable source or conveyance. Examples of point sources of pollution include gravel washing, mine tailings pond discharges, and sewage plant outfalls (40 CFR 122.27). Purchaser: The entity which is awarded a USDA Forest Service contract after bidding, usually with competition. As used in timber, the entity which has purchased timber in a timber sale contract. Reforestation: The renewal of forest cover by seeding, planting, or natural means. Revegetation: The replacement of vegetative cover that has been harvested or lost due to natural occurrences. Accomplished either through planting of nursery stock or seeding, or through natural processes.

-144-

Riparian Areas. Geographically delineable areas with distinctive resource values and characteristics that are comprised of the aquatic and riparian ecosystems (Forest Service Manual 2526). Definitions and descriptions within this section of the manual are being considered for review. Riparian Ecosystems. A transition area between the aquatic ecosystem and the adjacent terrestrial ecosystem; identified by soil characteristics or distinctive vegetation communities that require free or unbound water (FSM 2526). Definitions and descriptions within this section of the manual are being considered for review. Riparian Corridor is an administrative zone applied to both sides of a stream or along side a pond, lake, wetland, seep or spring. The riparian corridor is a fixed width by stream type that may fall within or beyond the true riparian area. See Region 8 letter describing this area for more detail for SAA forests. Rip Rapping: A biotechnical measure that uses large rock, boulders, concrete chunks or similar non-erosive, heavy objects as a surface armoring device along streams, lake shores or other circumstances to disperse the energy of water. Road Maintenance Plan: A documented schedule and program for upkeep of roads to provide a level of service for the user and protection of resources. There are five levels of maintenance: Level I is the least intense and Level V is the most intensive. Sale Area Map: A legible map of suitable scale and detail included in a timber sale contract. The map identifies sale area boundaries and contract requirements specific to the sale such as unit boundaries, types of cutting, protected streams, waterbodies, stream crossings, and sensitive biological or cultural areas to avoid or restrict management operations. Significant Disturbance: A disturbance of surface resources, including soil, water, and vegetation, which has the potential to degrade water quality to a level requiring corrective action. Silviculture: The science and art of forest vegetation management to meet resource needs. Site Preparation: A general term for removing unwanted vegetation, slash, and even roots and stones from a site before reforestation. It is generally accomplished either by mechanical, chemical, or biological means, or controlled fire. Site Specific: Pertains to a discernible, definable area, point or vicinity on the ground where a project, activity or SWCP will (or is proposed to) occur. Soil Bioengineering: Soil and slope stabilization methods that utilize live plants and plant byproducts. Soil Productivity: The capacity of a soil to produce a specific crop such as fiber and forage, under defined levels of management. Soil productivity is based on available soil moisture, nutrients, texture, structure, organic matter, climactic conditions, and length of growing season.

-145-

Soil Quality Standards: (SQS) Soil Quality Standards are stated quantitative or qualitative threshold values for soil properties or conditions established to maintain or improve the suitability or productive potential of a soil. SWCP. A practice that can help insure that soil productivity is maintained, soil loss and water quality impacts are minimized, and water-related beneficial uses are protected. Site specific SWCP supplement and include the Forest Plan Standards, State designated BMP, Coastal Zone Management Measures, and other resource guides that the Forest Service will implement or adjust to conserve soil and water resources on the NFS lands. Special Uses: All uses of NFS lands, improvements, and resources except those provided for in the regulation governing the disposal of timber (36 CFR 233), minerals (36 CFR 228), and the grazing of livestock (36 CFR 222), are designated “special uses” (36 CFR 251, Subpart B). Before engaging in a special use, persons or entities must submit an application to an authorized officer to obtain a special use authorization. Special Use Permit: A permit issued under established laws and regulations to an individual, organization, company or other entity for occupancy or use of NFS lands for some special purpose. Specified Road: A forest development transportation system road that is identified in and to be constructed or reconstructed under a Forest Service timber sale contract. Stream Classification: The characterization of streams that reflects physical or other factors such as (1) flow characteristics, (2) uses of the water, and (3) channel size, shape or form, as evaluation criteria. Streamside Management Zone (SMZ): An administratively designated zone adjacent to ephemeral, intermittent and perennial channels and around standing bodies of water, wetlands, springs, seeps and other wet, or marsh-type areas. It is designed and delineated for the application of special management controls aimed at the maintenance and-or improvement of water quality. SMZ delineation include portions of floodplains, riparian areas, and sometimes extend into terrestrial areas to protect stream temperature, filtration of pollutants and needs for large woody debris recruitment. Stream or Streamcourse: A natural channel with defined bed and banks and sediment transport capabilities. It may be perennial, intermittent, or ephemeral. Surfacing: The application of aggregate or other materials to a roadbed to provide increased trafficability, surface bearing strength and a more stable erosion resistant surface. Timber Sale Contract Clauses: Division AT - Contains the basic, normal, variable conditions of a timber sale. Division BT - Contains standard provisions for Forest Service timber sale contracts. Division CT - Contains the special provisions needed to meet the specific objectives.

-146-

Watershed Improvement: Watershed improvement includes all work associated with resource improvement practices implemented to improve watershed condition. These practices may be implemented for the rehabilitation of land degraded to the point where natural recovery will not occur within the time limits of economic, social, and resource demands. The activity includes watershed protection measures implemented by resource managers to improve natural deficiencies, when time is not a limiting factor. The rehabilitation of abandoned mine land, spoils and acid drainage, gullies, eroding landscapes, etc. is included within the watershed improvement program, but may also have overlap within the hazardous materials programs in some instances. Water Sources: These are protected areas identified on sale area or other project activity maps. They include perennial, intermittent and scoured ephemeral streams, lakes, ponds, springs that need SMZ or special protection measures. Water Quality Standards: Acceptable limits on water quality parameters that are set by the State with review by EPA, that when enforced will meet the goals of the CWA. These standards are to be reviewed every 3 years for adequacy and reasonableness, in protecting the designated beneficial uses of the waters of the State. Wetlands: Those areas that are inundated by surface, or groundwater with a frequency sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances does, or would support, a prevalence of vegetation, or aquatic life that requires saturated, or seasonally saturated soil conditions for growth and reproduction. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas (40 CFR 232.2) such as sloughs, potholes, springs, seeps, wet meadows, river overflows, mud flats and natural ponds.

-147-

CLOSING REMARKS This document was originally developed from 1994 through 1996 and was intended to be a Region 8 Handbook. It was reviewed and accepted by all concerned resource staff units. Due to changes and reductions in Handbooks at all levels, this document was left without action for 6 years. Changes in planning regulations, timber sale clauses, FSH and FSM direction, and other areas had created substantial areas of weakness in the 1996 version. The content of this document was reviewed, and some portions revised in 2002, including the addition of Chapter 10, “Lands.” Some areas of this document may need additional work on references with improved cross-referencing and reduction in duplication. Attention to new programs such as Watershed and Road Analysis were included to some extent, but were not fully integrated into the chapters. As with any guide, a more complete and comprehensive revision is needed from time to time. Nonetheless, the Region 8 SWCPs Guide provides a level of needed guidance on a wide array of soil and water resource concerns. All major program areas and associated activities are addressed and should provide assistance to employees, cooperators, agencies and interested publics in how we can better design, apply and implement projects with proper levels of avoidance, minimization and mitigation of soil and water effects. The consistency of these actions with law, directives, orders, manuals, handbooks, and plans is assumed, but overwhelming and complex. The Region 8 Guide provides detail and completeness that normally is not readily available to functional units, interdisciplinary teams, project proponents, line officers, and management teams. However, it should not be used to replace experienced professional evaluation and judgment to fit specific field conditions. Use is encouraged when soil scientists and hydrologists cannot be directly involved with project design or assessment.

-148-

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The authors acknowledge that this guide was not prepared without ideas or document guidance from similar SWCPs Guides developed in Regions 5 and 6. Many others within the Staff Units of the Southern Region provided ideas or comments in revising and reviewing this document in 1996. Since 1996, Keith McLaughlin moved to Washington, D.C. and retired. In the 2002 revision, John Vann, Jack Holcomb, Suzanne Krieger, Kelly Russell, Levester Pendergrass, Jim Naylor, Jim Brown, Jim Kozik, Ken Frye, Samuel Larry, Sandra Pence, John Byars, Bill Hughes, Ernesto Garcia, John Cleeves, Jim Knibbs, Peggy Jo Nadler and Dennis Law provided either document or sectional review. Thanks for editorial review by Sherry Griffith and Shkita Gay.

-149-