HomeMy WebLinkAbout1.16 Biological surveySensitive Species Habitat Assessment and Weed Management Plan Teepee Park Pipeline Aspen Environmental Field Services Garfield County, Colorado 18 May 2008 PREPARED FOR: Aspen Environmental
Field Services, LLC 300 Main Street, Suite 30 I Grand Junction, CO 81501 PREPARED BY: Jerry Powell Wildlife Specialties, L.L.C. P.O. Box 123 1 Lyons, Colorado 80540 Weed Management Plan
Prepared By: Western Ecological Resource, Inc. 711 Walnut Street Boulder, CO 80302
1.0 Description and Proposed Action The proposed pipeline is for the purpose of movement of natural gas that is locally extracted. The pipeline would cover an approximate distance of
2.6 miles from USDAFS land in section 24 through the BLM land in the north east comer of Section 1 Township 7S Range 94W. Prior to the issuance of appropriate permits by Garfield County,
surveys are required under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) to protect against violations of the MBTA. Surveys conducted in support of this report
ensure compliance with the ESA and MBT A. 2.0 Environmental Setting The project area is located in the eco-region identified as the Southern Rocky Mountain Steppe -open woodland-coniferous
forest -alpine meadow province of the dry domain (Bailey 1995). This eco-region is characterized by annual temperatures ranging form 2° to 7° C (35° to 45° F), a considerable amount
of precipitation is in the form of snow and can equal up to 102 cm (40 inches) per year (Bailey 1995). Vegetation changes with altitude and slope aspect. The Teepee pipeline as proposed
is located along Garfield County Road 317 (Beaver Creek Road) along Beaver Creek on predominantly private land with only a small portion of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) property at
the northern end (Figure 1). This site is represented on the North Mamm Peak Colorado U.S. Geological Survey 7.5 minute Quadrangle south of Rifle. Elevation within the area surveyed
varies from approximately 2,137 to 2,475 meters (7,010 to 8,120 feet) above mean sea level. The vegetation of the project area is primarily riparian in character with an overstory of
aspen (Populus tremuloides), mountain willow (Salix monticola), alder (Alnus incana ssp. tenuifolia), and river hawthorn (Crataegus rivularis). Other woody plants present include mountain
maple (Acer glabrum), redsosier dogwood (Corn us sericea), chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), snowberry (Symphoricarpos rotundifolius), and a few plains cottonwood trees (Populus deltoides).
The understory is a mixture of upland pasture grasses, native plants and weeds. These plants include smooth brome (Bromus inermis), timothy (Phleum pratense), orchardgrass (Dactylis
glomerata), and Kentucky bluegrass with natives such as yarrow (Achillea lanulosa), Woods' rose (Rosa woodsii), elk sedge (Carex geyeri), and Oregon grape (Mahonia repens). Common weeds
include mullein (Verbascum thapsus), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), scentless chamomile (Matricaria per/orata), cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), houndstonuge (Cynoglossum officinale),
and various thistles (Cirsium arvense, Carduus nutans ssp. macrolepis, C. acanthoides). Finally, the northern lower end of the project site appears to be primarily dominated by Gambel
oak (Quercus gambelii). 3.0 Habitat Assessment and Invasive Plant Surveys Prior to the actual field survey, the location of the project was determined and mapped in Geographic Information
System software. On 13 May 2008 biologists with Wildlife
Specialties, L.L.C. visited the project area (Photos I -3) to determine habitat types present within and near the project area and to identify the current status of invasion plant species.
A hand-held Global Positioning System (GPS) unit was used to document locations of invasive plant species. 3.1 Sensitive Species Habitat Assessment Nineteen species of federally threatened,
endangered and candidate plants occur in Colorado. Of these nineteen, only three species are known to occur in Garfield County (Table I). Parachute beardtongue (Pensteman debilis), a
federal candidate, occurs on steep white shale talus on the Parachute Creek Member of the Green River Formation. The second, OeBeque phacelia (Phacelia submutica), a federal candidate,
occurs on sparsely vegetated steep slopes in clay on Atwell Gulch and Shire Members of the Wasatch Formation. Finally the third species, Uinta Basin hookless cactus (Sclerocactus glaucus),
federally threatened, occurs in desert shrub communities. None of these three species occur along the proposed Teepee Pipeline corridor as appropriate geology and habitat is not present.
Table 1. Federally listed and candidate plant species potentially occurring in G arI iIe Id C ounty. Species Status Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Parachute Fe Sparsely
vegetated, south facing, Habitat is not present within the project beardtongue steep, white shale talus of the area. Penstemon debilis Parachute Creek Member of the Green River Fonnation;
8000-9000 ft. DeBeque phacelia Fe Sparsely vegetated, steep slopes in Habitat is not present within the project Phacelia suhmutica chocolate-brown or gray clay on area, Atwell Gulch
and Shire Members, Wasatch Formation. Soils often have large cracks because of the high shrink-swell potential of the c1avs; 4700-6200 ft. Uinta Basin hookless FT Rocky hills, mesa slopes,
and Habitat is not present within the project cactus alluvial benches in salt desert shrub area. Scferocactus glaucus communities; often with wellfonned microbiotic crusts; 4500-6000
ft. Source: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Threatened and Endangered Species System (TESS), downloaded March 3, 2005. hUp://ecos.fws.gov/tessyublicITESSWebpageUsaLists?state=CO hUp:llecos.
fws.gov/tess yublicffESSWebpageUsaLists?usMap= 1 &status=candidate&state=CO Six plant species are listed as being potentially present on BLM lands in the Glenwood Springs Field Office
(Table 2). However only one species, Harrington penstemon (Pensteman harringtanU) occurs in the vicinity of the project site. The other five species either occur on geologic formations
not present within the project area or in habitats which are lower in elevation. Harrington penstemon is a perennial herbaceous perennial plant that primarily occurs in open stands of
big sagebrush shrublands, or less commonly pinyonjuniper woodlands between 6,800-9,200 feet. The soils are typically rocky loams and rocky clay loams derived from coarse calcareous parent
materials or basalt. The Teepee Pipeline does not traverse through any potential Harrington penstemon habitat; hence there is no potential for this BLM sensitive species to occur.
T a bl e 2 : BLM S ensl' rI ve PI an t S'p ecles -GIe nwoo d S, prmjts F'I e Id omI ce. Species Stalus Habitat Requirements Debeque milkvelch BLMS Varicolored, fine textured, Astraga/lls
seleniferous or saline soils of debequaells Wasatch Fonnation-Atwell Gulch Member; 5100-6400 fl. Naturi ta mi lkvclch BLMS Sandstone mesas, ledges, crevices Astragalus and slopes in
pinyon/juniper noluritens;s woodlands; 5000-7000 n. Adobe thistle BLMS Reddish 10 Ian vertisols with Cirsill111 perplexans shrink-swell cracks, near Oebeque Piceance bJadderpod BLMS
Shale oUlcrops of the Green River Lesquerella Fonnation, on ledges and slopes of parviflora canyons in open areas; 6200-8600 ft. Known sites N & S ofGSFO Clay blazing star BLMS Steep.
eroding talus slopes of shale, Melllzelia (Nllual/ia) Green River Fonnation; 5800·9000 argillosa fl. Harrington's BLMS Open sagebrush or sagebrush sites beardtongue with encroaching
pinyon/juniper. Penstemoll Soils are typically rocky loarns and harrillgtollii rocky clay loams derived from coarse calcareous parent materials (basalt); 6500-9200 ft. LIst rece Ived
from Carla Scheck, BLM Glenwood Spnngs FIeld Office on 7/12105. BLMS =; Colorado BLM sensitive Potential for Occurrence Definite Likely Definite Likely Definite Definite In addition
to searching for raptors and other species protected under the MBT A, the habitat was assessed for the suitabi li ty of supporting sensitive wi ldli fe species including species protected
under the ESA. According to the latest species list from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (http://mountain-prairie.fws.gov/endspp/CountyLis\s/COLORADO.pdf) the following Federally
listed, proposed, or candidate animal species may occur within or be impacted by actions occurring within Garfield county (Table 3): Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis), Mexican spotted owl
(Strix occidentalis lucida), yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus), razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texanus), Colorado pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius), bony tail chub (Gila elegans),
and humpback chub (Gila cypha). The bald eagle (Haliaeetlls leucocephalus) was removed from the listed of threatened or endangered species in August 2007, this species is still federally
protected under the MBTA and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and state of Colorado laws. Table 3. Federally listed and candidate species potentially occurring in Garfield C
ounty. Species Status Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Fish Bony tail FE Large rivers associated with the Found in wanner waters of the Gila elegalls Colorado River basin.
Colorado River genera lly west of Rifle, Colorado. Colorado Pikeminnow FE Large ri vers associated with the Found in wanner waters of the Ptychocheilus lucius Colorado River basin. Colorado
River generally west of Rifle, Colorado. Humpback chub FE Large rivers associated with the Found in wanner waters of the Gila cypha Colorado River basin. Colorado River generally west
of Rifle, Colorado. Razorback sucker FE Large rivers associated wi th the Found in wanner waters of the Xyrallchel1 texOfWS Colorado River basin. Colorado River genera lly west of Rifle,
Colorado.
Species Birds Mexican spotter owl Strix occidentalis lucida Yellow-billed cuckoo COCCyzus americanus Mammals Canada lynx Lynx canadensis FE -Federally Endangered FT = Federally Threatened
FC = Federal Candidate Status FT Fe FT Habitat Requirements Potential for Occurrence Occur in closed-canopy forests in Project area does not provide rocky canyons. suitable habitat.
Riparian areas dominated by Project area does not provide cottonwoods and willows. suitable habitat. Spruce-fir forests within uneven aged No suitable habitat in project area. stands
with well developed understory. No spruce-fir forests in project area. Adjacent to Battelement LAU. No impacts are expected to any of these species, including the bald eagle; however,
lynx habitat is located nearby. Canada Lynx -The project is located adjacent to U.S.D.A. Forest Service lands which are included as part of the Battlement Lynx Analysis Unit (LAU) (Figure
2). An LAU is a project-planning unit intended to provide the fundamental or smallest scale with which to begin evaluation and monitoring of the effects of management actions on lynx
habitat (Ruediger 2000). Mapped 'other' lynx habitat does occur within 500 m the project area boundary; very small areas of mapped 'denning/winter' habitat is within approximately 600
meters of the southern end of the project area; mapped 'winter' habitat is located approximately I km from the project area. Intervening unsuitable habitat is comprised of predominantly
oak brush, the climax community for this area. Although the project area parallels the Battlement LAU, no habitat critical to the survival of lynx would be impacted by the proposed action.
Because the pipeline would follow Garfield County Road 317 (existing disturbance) the placement of the pipeline would not increase recreational use, lead to an increase in snow compaction,
or other factors that may impact lynx. It is recommended that all construction occur in the summer when habitat and food sources are not limited and breeding (i.e. nesting) has ended
for the majority of avian species protected under the MBT A. The lack of habitat critical to lynx, the existing disturbance, and the timing of the work combined show that this project
would have no negative effects on Canada lynx. 3.2 Integrated Weed Management Plan Weeds are rapidly becoming one of the most pressing issues for land managers. Weeds create large economic
losses for agriculture in both cropland and rangeland situations. In addition, noxious weeds represent poor habitat for wildlife, replace native habitats, can negatively impact ecosystem
processes, and can threaten certain native species, including federally protected species, with extirpation. In May of 2000, the Garfield County Board of County Commissioners adopted
the "Garfield County Noxious Weed Management Plan" in order to provide guidelines for managing designated noxious weeds in a way that are the least environmentally damaging and are practical,
timely, and economically feasible. Table 4 lists the designated Noxious Weeds of Garfield County. Descriptions of each of these weeds may be found in the aforementioned Garfield County
Noxious Weed Management Plan available on the Garfield County, Colorado website.
T a bl e 4 N OXIOUS W ee d sof G arI Ii e Id C oumty . Common Name Scientific Name Leafy Spurge Euphorbia esula Russian Knapweed Acroptilon repens Yellow Starthistle Centaurea solstitalis
Plumeless Thistie Carduus acanthoides Houndston2ue Cvnoglossum officinale Common Burdock Arctium minus Scotch Thistle Onopordum acanthium Canada Thistle Cirsium arvense Spotted Knapweed
Centaurea maeu/osa Diffuse Knapweed Centaurea difJUsa Dalmatian T oadflax Linaria da/matica Yellow Toadflax Linaria vulgaris Hoary Cress Cardaria draba Salt Cedar Tamarix parvijlora,
Tamarix ramosissima Jointed Goatgrass Aegilops cylindrica Chicory Cichorium intybus Musk Thistle Cardllus nutans Purple Loosestrife Lythrum salicaria Russian Olive Elaeagnus angustifolia
From: hUp:/lwww.garfield-county.comllndex.aspx?page=607 Bolded species are those observed on the project site in mid-May 2008. 3.3 Weed Inventory A weed inventory was conducted by Ms.
Rea Orthner, a plant ecologist with Western Ecological Resource, Inc. on May 13, 2008. Ms. Orthner is a plant ecologist with 10 years of experience in vegetation planning and management
and is a member of the Gilpin County, Colorado, Noxious Weed Advisory Board. Although numerous weeds were visible at that time, it is likely a few additional weed species will be present
later in the growing season. 3.4 Results A total of seven species of Colorado State Listed noxious weeds were observed within the project area. These include several List B species:
Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), houndstongue (Cynoglossum officinale), musklplumeless thistle (Carduus nutans, C. acanthoides), and scentless chamomile (Matricaria per/orata), and
two list C species, cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) and mullein (Verbascum thapsus). No List A species, or those designated for complete eradication within the state, were found. Of the
seven state listed noxious weeds found only four species are considered to be high priority for Garfield County: Canada, musk, and plumeless thistles, and houndstongue. Although scentless
chamomile is not a listed noxious weed for Garfield County, it is recommended that it be treated as well. Low priority weed species (the cheatgrass and mullein) will not be controlled
at this time. Detailed information for the high priority weeds species is given below. Please note, due to early spring conditions, some weed species may have been missed during the
onsite inventory. If other Garfield County noxious weeds are encountered during weed control efforts, they will be treated as well. Canada thistle. Canada thistle is a colony-forming
perennial from that forms deep underground and extensive roots. Stems are 1-4 ft tall and the flower heads are relatively small, Y, to Y. inch in diameter, and purple.
Plumeless and Musk thistles. These closely related thistles are biennial or sometimes winter annuals which can grow up to six feet tall. As other biennial plants, these thistles thrive
on disturbance. Houndstongue. Houndstongue is a biennial plant that grows one to four feet tall. The seeds are produced the second year and cling to clothing and animals. The flowers
are small and maroon colored. The plant is toxic to livestock including horses. Scentless chamomile. This annual forb is extremely problematic in other counties such as Eagle and Summit
Counties, Colorado. It has finely dissected leaves and a white/yellow flower. Like other weeds, it thrives on disturbance. 3.5 Weed Management Goals The goal of this Integrated Weed
Management Plan is not to totally eradicate the five species of high-priority noxious weed species within the mapping area, but to reduce the current infestations to manageable levels
and to make sure no new infestations develop. By reducing infestations, available forage for livestock and wildlife will increase and overall habitat quality will improve. Total elimination
of noxious weeds would not only be impracticable due to the high levels of adjacent infestations, but total eradication for these species is also not within the guidelines set forth
by Garfield County for these weed species. 3.6 Weed Management Actions Weeds are best controlled by a combination of methods, an integrated approach. The proposed Integrated Weed Management
Plan includes a five stage approach: prevention, chemical control, mechanical control, biological control, and cultural control. Each of these is described below. 3.6.1 Prevention The
establishment and perpetuation of weeds will be limited by minimizing disturbed areas for the pipeline corridor and by establishment of a native plant cover as soon as possible following
disturbance. In addition, all equipment used in the construction process will be relatively clean and free-of weeds prior to start of construction. Finally, seeded areas and other disturbances
will be monitored to determine if weeds have infested these sites. If weeds are present, they will be quickly treated. 3.6.2 Chemical Control Chemical control is the use of herbicides
to kill weeds or retard their growth and seed production. There are many kinds of herbicides and the discussion of each kind is beyond the scope of this report. However, one herbicide
in particular has recently proven to be very effective at controlling four of the five high priority weeds on the project site. The herbicide is known as Milestone and it is a non-volatile
formulation that was reviewed and accepted under the EPA's Reduced Risk Pesticide Initiative. Field trials have shown that Milestone, with its active ingredient aminopyralid, offers
control at low use rates, so it benefits the environment by reducing the threat of invasive weed species, and does so with fewer pounds of active ingredient. Even at the low labeled-use
rate of 4 to 7 ounces per acre, Milestone provides very good post-emergence control and season-long residual activity on many important noxious weeds, including 100% control of certain
knapweeds and thistle species. Unlike other pasture and rangeland herbicides, Milestone's rapid breakdown rate enables it to be used along waterways or where seasonal flooding occurs.
In addition, there are no grazing restrictions for any type of livestock or wildlife, including
lactating dairy animals, beef cattle, sheep, goats and horses). In addition, it has very low ("practically nontoxic" designation) toxicity to birds, fish, mammals and aquatic invertebrates.
Further information may be found at http://www.dowagro.comlrange/products/milestone.htm . The use of Milestone is recommended to treat all populations of thistles and the mayweed chamomile.
Herbicide treatments should be conducted when the plant has emerged from the ground, but prior to seed set. Fall applications of Milestone are known to be effective at killing plants,
however, not all seeds may be eradicated if they have already been dispersed. Fall treatments are recommended if mowing is first used to reduce seed set. Finally Milestone should not
be used at the same time as planting grass seed as the active ingredient may damage young grass seedlings. As with the application of all herbicides, the applicator should read and follow
all label instructions. 3.6.3 Mechanical Control Mechanical control methods like mowing and cutting sever the aboveground portion of the plant from its roots. If conducted at the right
time of year, prior to seed set, mowing can be effective in reducing the number of seeds and hence the potential number of new plants for the next growing season. However, mowing is
rarely effective by itself because it often does not kill the plant which will continue to grow, sometimes with multiple stems and increased seed production. In addition, mowing often
increases weed density due to increased germination. A tractor with a brush hog rotary mower can be used on flat areas and landscapes with a relatively gentle slope. Weed whips can be
used for small, steep or relatively isolated areas. Mowing could be used along the Teepee Pipeline project if herbicide is applied after mowing. If herbicide is applied prior to seed
set, mowing or other mechanical control methods may not be necessary. 3.6.4 Biological Control Biological control includes the introduction of organisms (usually insects) specifically
adapted to attack a particular noxious weed species. Biological control agents are usually imported from the same country or region where the weed evolved and go through a rigorous testing
process before being released into the wild. According to the Garfield County Noxious Weed Management Plan, there are effective biological control agents that appear to work on Canada,
musk, and plumeless thistles. However we recommend that the Garfield County Weed Extension Agent be contacted for current information on biological control agents prior to any biological
control releases. 3.6.5 Cultural Control Cultural control methods seek to control weed populations by establishing or restoring desired vegetation communities, and by limiting overgrazing
by livestock which reduces the health and vigor of natural communities. Specifically we recommend that all disturbances be quickly and effectively seeded with a native seed mix appropriate
to the area. Although the project area is large privately owned, we recommend that the BLM's reclamation standards be used for the Teepee Park Pipeline project. Such standards may be
found in Appendix A and Table 1-3 of this appendix contains an appropriate menu-based seed selection guide appropriate for interim and long term revegetation of the pipeline corridor.
4.0 Weed Monitoring & Reporting The vegetation of the weed control areas will be closely monitored each growing season for three consecutive years, following initial control, or until
desirable vegetation is dense and healthy enough to out compete the weed species of concern. During the monitoring, notes will be taken on the weed control method used, the number or
percent of weeds killed, and the response of desirable native vegetation. Permanent photo points will be set up in representative locations. The success of the weed control methods will
be qualitatively monitored each growing season. Each year, an ecologist will determine the average decrease in weed density, prepare a list of plants growing in the weed control areas
and indicate if they were in the seed mix (if applied), if they germinated from the seed bank, or represent new colonization events. Finally, recommendations for each treatment area
will be made. At the end of each growing season, a monitoring report will be prepared and will be submitted to Garfield County. This report will document all control methods used, monitoring
results, and include photographs from the permanent photo points. 5.0 Conclusion Based on the surveys conducted along the proposed Teepee Park Pipeline no plant or vertebrate sensitive
species are likely to be impacted as a result of the proposed action. Strict adherence to the proposed weed management actions will help to reduce the likelihood of an increase in invasive
plaot species along the project corridor. 6.0 Literature Cited Bailey, R.G. 1995. Description of the ecoregions of the United States. 2d ed. Rev. and expanded (l't ed. 1980). Misc. Pub!.
No. 1391 (rev.), Washington.
Photos , Photo I: Southern end of the proposed pipeline at the USDA Forest Service boundary. Photo 2: Scrub oak with alders is typical of the project area.
Appendix A
IN REPLY REFER TO 3160 (C0l40) United States Department of the Interior BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT Glenwood Springs Energy Office 2425 South Grand Avenue, Suite 101 Glenwood Springs,
Colorado 81601 May 1,2008 SENT BY CERTIFIED MAIL RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED RE: Revisions to BLM Energy Office Revegetation Requirements IE-~ ~*"\ TAKE PRIDE' 1NAMERICA On April 16, 2007,
I sent a letter to all operators in Glenwood Springs Energy Office (GSEO) area updating the revegetation seed mixes specified for oil and gas reclamation projects. That update included
eliminating a specific spring/fall seeding schedule, eliminating shrubs and forbs from most of the mixes, specifying use of menu-based seed mixes for different habitat types, requiring
the use of mulch, and allowing the use of sterile hybrids in seed mixes for temporary seeding. The current letter includes revised menu-based seed mixes for both interim and temporary
seeding. The other changes discussed in the letter of last year remain in effect. The revised menu-based seed mixes included with this letter reflect input from operators, their reclamation
contractors, various seed companies, and other reclamation professionals. The revisions, intended to further improve the likelihood of achieving diverse, self-sustaining perennial native
vegetation in conjunction with oil and gas reclamation projects, include changes to the following: • Possible combinations of species approved for use in specific habitat types. • Named
varieties approved for use in different habitat types. • Approved seeding rate for the low-elevation salt-desert scrublbasin big sagebrush habitat type (increased to 60 pure live seeds
per square foot). As indicated in the 2007 letter, operators and their contractors may continue to use supplies of previously approved mixes that have already been purchased and maintained
in suitable storage conditions. However, the increased seeding rate for the low-elevation salt-desert scrublbasin big sagebrush habitat type must be applied when using a previously approved
mix. Despite the flexibility in seed mixes and seeding schedules provided in the 2007 letter-mostly in response to requests by operators or their contractors-the GSEO Ecologist, Beth
Brenneman, notes that revegetation success continues to be less than desired. In discussing this situation with a variety of reclamation specialists, Beth has concluded that one of the
major impediments to success is improper planting depth, particularly the planting of some species too deeply, which is a common problem with agricultural or rangeland drills in "fluffY"
soils resulting from seedbed preparation on reclamation sites. These specialists have recommended the use of Truax seed drills or modified rangeland drills, which allow seeding the species
from different seed boxes and at different planting depths.
While we continue to resist requiring use of Truax or similar drilling equipment, we encourage operators to make every effort to ensure that the native perennial grasses and shrubs are
being planted at an appropriate depth. For example, wheatgrasses and shrubs should be planted at a depth of 0.5 inch, while Indian ricegrass is ideally planted at a depth of I to 2 inches,
which aids in the stratification process by ensuring that the seed is kept moist. In comparison, species with small seeds, such as alkali sacaton, junegrass, and the bluegrasses, should
be planted at a depth of 0.25 inch or less. Therefore, in situations where different planting depths are not practicable with the equipment being used, the entire mix should be planted
no deeper 0.25 inch. This is based on the fact that planting too shallowly is generally better than planting too deeply, especially when mulch is being used to provide additional cover
for the seeds. In addition to updating the menu-based seed mixes and addressing planting depth, this letter also provides the most recent version of the GSEO reclamation procedures incorporated
into the Standard Surface Use Conditions of Approval (CO As) for oil and gas activities. This includes expanded specifications for the use of weed-free seed, greater detail regarding
seedbed preparation and seeding techniques, and information regarding deadlines for implementing temporary and interim reclamation and for submitting annual monitoring reports. Another
change in the COAs is a requirement that all of the topsoil at a site must be stripped and stored separately, with a minimum stripping depth of 6 inches. Additional thickness of material
to be salvaged at a particular site may be specified by the authorized officer during an onsite visit or determined by the operator based on color, texture, or other features. This requirement
attempts to balance two concerns: (I) stripping too much material may dilute the topsoil with less suitable subsoil, and (2) stripping too little material may waste some of the topsoil
available at a site. Either of these reduces the potential for achieving reclamation success. We appreciate your continued cooperation in striving for more effective reclamation. Please
do not hesitate to contact Beth Brenneman (970-947-5232 or beth_brenneman@blm.gov) or me with questions. Attachments Sincerely, Allen B. Crockett, Ph.D., J.D. Supervisory Natural Resource
Specialist Updated Seed Mixes for Interim and Final Reclamation Update Seed Mixes for Temporary Seeding Reclamation Surface Use Conditions of Approval 2
ATTACHMENT 1. MENU-BASED SEED MIXES BY HABITAT TYPE FOR USE IN INTERIM AND FINAL RECLAMATION Table 1-1. Low-Elevation Salt-Desert ScrublBasin Big Sagebrush Common Name Scientific Names
Variety Season Form PLS Ibs/acre* Plant Both of the Following (5% Each, 10% Total) Fourwing Saltbush Atriplex canescens VNS Shrub 2.5 Shadscale Atriplex confertifolia VNS Shrub 2.0 and
Two ofthe Following (25% Each, 50% Total) Bottlebrush Squirreltail Elymus elymoides. Sitanion hystrix VNS Cool Bunch 3.4 Stream bank Wheatgrass Elymus lanceolatus ssp. psammophilus,
Sodar Cool Sod-forming 4.2 Awopyron riparium Bluebunch Wheatgrass Pseudoroegneria spicata Secar Cool Bunch 4.7 and One of the Following (20% Total) Indian Ricegrass Achnatherum [Oryzopsis]
hymenoides Paloma, Rimrock Cool Bunch 3.7 Sandberg Bluegrass Poa sandbergii, Poa secunda VNS Cool Bunch 0.6 and One of the Following (10% Total) Alkali Sacaton Sporobolus airoides VNS
Warm Bunch 0.15 Salina Wildrye Leymus salin us VNS Cool Bunch 1.0 and One of the Following (10% Total) Galleta Pleuraphis [Hilaria] jamesii Viva florets Warm Bunch/Sod-1.6 forming Sand
Dropseed Sporobolus cryptandrus VNS Warm Bunch 0.05 *Based on 60 pure live seeds (PLS) per square foot, drill-seeded. Double this rate (120 PLS per square foot) if broadcast or hydroseeded.
A-I
Table 1-2. Pinyon-Jnniper Woodland and/or MonntainlWyoming Big Sagebrnsh Shrubland Common Name Scientific Names Variety Season Form PLS Ibs/acre* Plant Both of the Following (15% Each,
30% Total) Bottlebrush Squirreltail Elymus elymoides. Sitanion hystrix VNS Cool Bunch 2.0 Bluebunch Wheatgrass Pseudoroegneria spicata. Agropyron Secar, p-7 ~ Anatone, Cool Bunch 2.8
spicatum Goldar and Two of the Following (20% Each, 40% Total) Thickspike Wheatgrass Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus. Critana, Bannock, Cool Sod-forming 3.4 ARropyron dasystachyum
Schwendimar Slender Wheatgrass Elymus trachycaulus. Agropyron Revenue, Pryor Cool Bunch 3.3 trach];caulum Western Wheatgrass Pascopyrum [Agropyron} smithii Rosana, Arriba Cool Sod-forming
4.8 and Two of the Following (15% Each, 30% Total) Indian Ricegrass Achnatherum [Oryzopsis} hymenoides Paloma, Rimrock Cool Bunch 2.8 Galleta Pleura phis [Hilaria} jamesii Viva florets
Warm Bunch/Sod-2.5 formi~ Muttongrass Poafendleriana VNS Cool Bunch 0.4 Sandberg Bluegrass Poa sandbergii. Poa secunda VNS Cool Bunch 0.4 ---*Based on 60 pure live seeds (PLS) per square
foot, drill-seeded. Double this rate (120 PLS per square foot) if broadcast or hydroseeded. A-2
Table 1-3. Mixed Mouutain Sbrubland, Including Oakbrush Common Name Scientific Names Variety Season Form PLS Ibs/acre" Plant Both of the Following (20% Each, 40% Total) Bottlebrush Squirreltail
Elymus elymoides, Sitanion hystrix VNS Cool Bunch 2.7 Bluebunch Wheatgrass Pseudoroegneria spicata. Agropyron Secar, P-7, Cool Bunch 3.7 slJicatum Anatone. Goldar and Two of the Following
(15% Each, 30% Total) Thickspike Wheatgrass Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus. Critana, Bannock, Cool Sod-forming 2.5 AwolJyron dasystachyum Schwendimar Slender Wheatgrass Elymus trachycaulus,
Agropyron San Luis Cool Bunch 2.5 trachycaulum Western Wheatgrass Pascopyrum [Agropyronj smithii Arriba, Rosana Cool Sod-forming 3.6 and One of the Following (10% Total) Big Bluegrass
Poaampla Sherman Cool Bunch 0.3 Canby Bluegrass Poa canbyi, P. secunda Canbar Cool Bunch 0.3 Muttongrass Poajendleriana VNS Cool Bunch 0.3 and One of the Following (10% Total) Letterman
Needlegrass Achnatherum [Stipajletfermanii VNS Cool Bunch 1.7 Columbia Needlegrass Achnatherum [Stipaj nelsonii, Stipa VNS Cool Bunch columbiana 1.7 Green Needlegrass Nassella [Stipaj
viridula Lodorm, Cucharas Cool Bunch 1.4 and One of the Following (10% Total) Indian Ricegrass Achnatherum [Oryzopsisj hymenoides Nezpar, Paloma, Cool Bunch 1.9 Rimrock Junegrass Koeleria
macranfha, K. cristata VNS (North American origin) Cool Bunch 0.1 -'--------"Based on 60 pure live seeds (PLS) per square joot, drill-seeded. Double this rate (120 PLS per square joot)
if broadcast or hydroseeded. A-3
Table 1-4. Spruce-Fir Forest, Inclnding Mountain Meadows Common Name Scientific Names Variety Season Form PLS I Ibs/acre* Plant Both orthe Following (20% Each, 40% Total) Mountain Brome
Bromopsis [Bromus] marginatus Gamet, Bromar Cool Bunch 5.8 Slender Wheatgrass Elymus trachycaulus. Agropyron San Luis Cool Bunch 3.3 trachycaulum and Two or the Following (15% Each,
30% Total) Letterman Needlegrass Achnatherum [Stipa] lettermanii VNS Cool Bunch 2.6 Blue Wildrye Elymus glaucus VNS Cool Bunch 3.6 Idaho Fescue Festuca idahoensis Joseph, Nezpurs Cool
Bunch 0.9 and Two of the Following (15% Each, 30% Total) Nodding Brome Bromus anomalous VNS Cool Bunch 2.7 Thickspike Wheatgrass Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolalus. Critana, Bannock,
Awopyron dasystachyum Schwendimar Cool Sod-forming 2.5 Big Bluegrass Poaampla Sherman Cool Bunch 0.4 Wheeler Bluegrass Poanervosa VNS Cool Sod-forming 0.4 --"---*Based on 60 pure live
seeds (PLS) per square foot, drill-seeded. Double this rate (120 PLS per square foot) if broadcast or hydroseeded. A-4
ATTACHMENT 2. EXAMPLES OF MENU-BASED SEED MIXES BY HABITAT TYPE FOR USE IN TEMPORARY SEEDING Table 2-1. Example for Low-Elevation Salt-Desert ScrublBasin Big Sagebrush, Pinyon-Juniper,
and MountainlWyoming Sagebrush Common Name Scientific Names Variety Season Form PLS Ibs/acre* Plant One of the Following Wheat x Tall Wheatgrass Triticum aestivum x Elytrigia elongata
Regreen** Cool Annual 11.9 Wheat x Cereal Rye Triticum aestivum x Secale cereale QuickGuard** Cool Annual 30.2 and the Following Stream bank Wheatgrass 1 Elymus lanceolatus ssp. psammophilus.
Sodar Cool Sod-forming 8.9 _. Agropyron riparium Table 2-2. Example for Mixed Mountain Shrubland/Oakbrush and Spruce-Fir ForestIMountain Meadow Common Name Scientific Names Variety Season
Form PLS Ibs/acre* Plant One of the Following Wheat x Tall Wheatgrass Triticum aestivum x Elytrigia elongata Regreen** Cool Annual 11.9 Wheat x Cereal Rye Triticum aestivum x Secale
cereale QuickGuard ** Cool Annual 30.2 and Two of the Following Mountain Brome Bromopsis rBromus} marginatus Gamet, Bromar Cool Bunch 7.7 Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus. Critana,
Thickspike Wheatgrass Bannock, Cool Sod-forming 4.5 Agropyron dasystachyum Schwendimar Slender Wheatgrass Elymus trachycaulus. Agropyron San Luis Cool Bunch 4.4 trachvcaulum *Based on
3 PLS per square foot for Regreen, 9 PLS per square foot for QuickGuard, and 16 PLS per square foot for native perennial grasses (streambank wheat grass is 32 PLS per square foot). Double
the indicated amounts if broadcast or hydroseeded. ** Included as examples only. Product information on alternative sterile hybrids must be submitted to BLM prior to use. A-5
ATTACHMENT 3. STANDARD SURFACE USE CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL -RECLAMATION Reclamation. The goals, objectives, timelines, measures, and monitoring methods for final reclamation of oil and
gas disturbances are described in Appendix I (Surface Reclamation) of the 1998 Draft Supplemental EIS (DSEIS). Specific measures to follow during interim and temporary (pre-interim)
reclamation are described below. a. Deadline for Temporary Seeding and Interim Reclamation. Topsoil storage piles, stormwater control features, and cut-and-fill slopes shall undergo
temporary seeding to stabilize the material and minimize weed infestations within 30 days following completion of pad construction. Interim reclamation to reduce a well pad to the maximum
size needed for production shall be completed within 6 months following completion of the last well planned for the pad. Both of these deadlines are subject to being extended upon approval
of the authorized officer based on season, timing limitations, or other constraints on a case-by-case basis. b. Topsoil Stripping, Storage, and Replacement. Topsoil shall be stripped
following removal of vegetation during construction of well pads, pipelines, roads, or other surface facilities. This shall include, at a minimum, the upper 6 inches of soil. Any additional
topsoil present at a site, such as indicated by color or texture, shall also be stripped. The authorized officer may specity a stripping depth during the onsite visit. The stripped topsoil
shall be stored separately from subsoil or other excavated material and replaced prior to final seedbed preparation. c. Seedbed Preparation. For cut-and-fill slopes, initial seedbed
preparation shall consist of backfilling and recontouring to achieve the configuration specified in the reclamation plan. For compacted areas, initial seedbed preparation shall include
ripping to a minimum depth of 18 inches, with a maximum furrow spacing of 2 feet. Where practicable, ripping shall be conducted in two passes at perpendicular directions. Following final
contouring, the backfilled or ripped surfaces shall be covered evenly with topsoil. Final seedbed preparation shall consist of scarifying (raking or harrowing) the spread topsoil prior
to seeding. If more than one season has elapsed between final seedbed preparation and seeding, and if the area is to be broadcast-seeded or hydroseeded, this step shall be repeated no
more than 1 day prior to seeding to break up any crust that has formed. Seedbed preparation is not required for topsoil storage piles or other areas of temporary seeding. Requests for
use of soil amendments, including basic product information, shall be submitted to the BLM for approval. d. Seed Mixes. A seed mix consistent with BLM standards in terms of species and
seeding rate for the specific habitat type shall be used on all BLM lands affected by the project (see Attachments I and 2 of the letter provided to operators dated May 1,2008). Note
that temporary seeding allows use of a seed mix containing sterile hybrid non-native species in addition to native perennial species. For private surfaces, the menu-based seed mixes
are recommended, but the surface landowner has ultimate authority over the seed mix to be used in reclamation. The seed shall contain no noxious, prohibited, or restricted weed seeds
and shall contain no more than 0.5 percent by A-6
weight of other weed seeds. Seed may contain up to 2.0 percent of "other crop" seed by weight, including the seed of other agronomic crops and native plants; however, a lower percentage
of other crop seed is recommended. Seed tags or other official documentation shall be supplied to the BLM Glenwood Springs Energy Office Ecologist (Beth Brenneman, 970-947-5232 or beth_brenneman@blm.
gov)at least 14 days before the date of proposed seeding for acceptance. Seed that does not meet the above criteria shall not be applied to public lands. e. Seeding Procedures. Seeding
shall be conducted no more than 24 hours following completion of final seedbed preparation. Where practicable, seed shall be installed by drill-seeding to a depth of 0.25 to 0.5 inch.
Where drill-seeding is impracticable, seed may be installed by broadcast-seeding at twice the drillseeding rate, followed by raking or harrowing to provide 0.25 to 0.5 inch of soil cover.
Hydroseeding and hydromulching may be used in temporary seeding or in areas where drillseeding or broadcast-seeding/raking are impracticable. Hydroseeding and hydromulching must be conducted
in two separate applications to ensure adequate contact of seeds with the soil. If interim revegetation is unsuccessful, the operator shall implement subsequent reseedings until interim
reclamation standards are met. Requirements for reseeding of unsuccessful temporary seeding will be considered on a case-by-case basis. f. Mulch. Mulch shall be applied within 24 hours
following completion of seeding. In areas of interim reclamation that used drill-seeding or broadcast-seedinglraking, mulch shall consist of crimping certified weed-free straw or certified
weed-free native grass hay into the soil. Hydromu1ching may be used in areas of interim reclamation where crimping is impracticable, in areas of interim reclamation that were hydroseeded,
and in areas of temporary seeding regardless of seeding method. NOTE: Mulch is not required in areas where erosion potential mandates use of a biodegradable erosion-control blanket (straw
matting). g. Erosion Control. Cut-and-fill slopes shall be protected against erosion with the use of water bars, lateral furrows, or other measures approved by the authorized officer.
Biodegradable straw matting, bales or wattles of weed-free straw or weed-free native grass hay, or well-anchored fabric silt fence shall be used on cut-and-fill slopes and along drainages
to protect against soil erosion. Additional BMPs shall be employed as necessary to reduce erosion and offsite transport of sediment. h. Site Protection. The pad shall be fenced to BLM
standards to exclude livestock grazing for the first two growing seasons or until seeded species are firmly established, whichever comes later. The seeded species will be considered
firmly established when at least 50 percent of the new plants are producing seed. The authorized officer will approve the type of fencing. l. Monitoring. The operator shall conduct annual
monitoring surveys of reclaimed areas and shall submit an annual monitoring report to the authorized officer by December 31 of each year. The monitoring program shall use the four Reclamation
Categories defined in Appendix I of the 1998 DSEIS to assess progress toward reclamation objectives. The annual report shall document whether attainment of reclamation objectives appears
likely. If one or more objectives appear unlikely to be achieved, the report shall identify appropriate corrective actions. Upon review and approval of the report by the BLM, the operator
shall be responsible for implementing the corrective actions or other measures specified by the authorized officer. A-7
Figure 1: Location of the Teepee Pipeline Project Area Legend ---Project area N 1 inch =4,166 feet May 2008 A Prepared By: Wildlife Specialties, l.l.C. P.O. Box 1231 Lyons, CO 80540
Figure 2: Project location and Battlement Lynx Analysis Unit location. Legend -Project area Battlement_lau_habitat Lynx Habitat Type 1 inch = 4,166 feet May 2008 N A Prepared By: Wildlife
Specialties, L.L.C. P.O. Box 1231 Lyons, CO 80540