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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1.0 ApplicationWiIIiams® SPECIAL USE PERMIT HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR STATION GARFIELD COUNTY COLORADO, USA WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING 111 E. Third St, Suite 213 Rifle, CO 81650 (970) 625-8433 GARFIELD COUNTY Building & Planning Department 108 8th Street, Suite 401 Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601 Telephone: 970.945.8212 Facsimile: 970.384.3470 www.garfield-county.com RECEIVED DEL 0 1 2008 BLJ;LDING & PLANNIN( SPECIAL USE PERMIT Doc. #SUPIU[• GENERAL INFORMATION (Please print legibly) Name of Property Owner: wi 11 iams Production RMT P Mailing Address: 1458 County Rd. 215 Telephone: ( 970 )683 -2282 'r City: Parachute State: CO Zip Code: 81635 Cell: ( 970)250-3683 r E-mail address: Brad . Mos s@Wi l l iams . com FAX: ( ) r Name of Owner's Representative, if any, (Attorney,, Planner, Consultant, etc): ,. Wagon Wheel Consulting, Inc. (Jimmy Smith) r Mailing Address:iii E. 3rd St. , Suite 213 Telephone: (970 ) 625-8433 r City: Rifle State: CO Zip Code: 81650 Cell: (303 ) 726-9070 r E-mail address: ]immyCwagonwheelconsulting.com FAX: ( 970 ) 625-8435 P. Description of Special Use Requested: Construction and operations of the Hoover Express Compressor Station and associated 12 inch peline r Street Address / General Location of Property: Approximately 5.5 miles west of Parachute, CO and north of Interstate 70 r Legal Description: Sections 28, 33 and 32; Township 7 South; Range 96 West; 6th P.M. P Assessor's Parcel Number: 2 4 0 9- 3 2 1- 0 0- 1 1 0 r Existing Use: Range Lands - Oil & Gas Exploration r Property Size (in acres) 18 Acres Zone District: Resource Lands Last Revised 7/1/08 C. APPLICATION SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS As a minimum, specifically respond to all the following items below and attach any additional information to be submitted with this application. P'{ease submit, in narrative form, the nature and character of the Special Use requested. Submit plans and supporting information (i.eletters from responsible agencies). Include specifications for the proposed use including, but not limited to, the hours of operation, the number and type of vehicles accessing the site on a daily, weekly and/or monthly basis, and the size and location of any existing and/or proposed structures that will be used in conjunction with the proposed use, and provisions for electric power service and any other proposed utility improvements. Be specific. 2. If you will be using water or will be treating wastewater in conjunction with the proposed use, please detail the amount of water that would be used and the type of wastewater treatment. If you will be utilizing well water, please attach a copy of the appropriate well permit and any other legal water supply information, including a water allotment contract or an approved water augmentation plan to demonstrate that you have legal and adequate water for the proposed use. Submit a site plan /map drawn to scale that portrays the boundaries of the subject property, all existing and proposed structures on the property, and the County or State roadways within one (1) mile of your property. If you are proposing a new or expanded access onto a County or State roadway, submit a driveway or highway access permit. 4. Submit a vicinity map showing slope / topography of your property, for which a U.S.G.S, 1:24,000 scale quadrangle map will suffice.. 5. Submit a copy of the appropriate portion of a Garfield County Assessor's Map showing the subject property and all public and private landowners adjacent to your property (which should be delineated). In addition, submit a list of all property owners, private and public, and their addresses adjacent to or within 200 ft. of the site. This information can be obtained from the County Assessor's Office. You will also need the names (if applicable) of all mineral interest owners of the subject property. identified in the County Clerk and Recorder's records in accordance with §24-65.5-101, et seq. (That information may be found in your title policy under Exceptions to Title). Submit a copy of the deed and a legal description of the subject property. If you are acting as an agent for the property owner, you must attach an acknowledgement from the property owner that you may act in his/her behalf. If the property is owned by a corporate entity (such as an LLC, LLLP, etc.) please submit a copy of a recorded "Statement of Authority" demonstrating that the person signing the application has the authority to act in that capacity for the entity. 8. Submit a statement that specifically responds to each of the following criteria from Section 5.03 of the Zoning Regulations: (1) Utilities adequate to provide water and sanitation service based on accepted engineering standards and approved by the Board of County Commissioners shall either be in place or shall be constructed in conjunction with the proposed use.. • • • • (2) Street improvements adequate to accommodate traffic volume generated by the proposed use and to provide safe, convenient access to the use shall either be in place or shall be constructed in conjunction with the proposed use; (3) Design of the proposed use is organized to minimize impact on and from adjacent uses of land through installation of screen fences or landscape materials on the periphery of the lot and by location of intensively utilized areas, access points. lighting and signs in such a manner as to protect established neighborhood character; Depending on the type of Special Use Permit requested, you may need to respond to additional review standards in the Garfield County Zoning Resolution Section 5.00 [Supplementary Regulations]. This may include uses such industrial uses [section 5.03.07 & 5.03.08], Accessory Dwelling Units [section 5.03.21], Utility line/Utility Substations, etc. Specific sections of the Zoning Resolution which can be located on the Garfield County web site at _XV,/ s:.u3"i i!uLudiadrtq and { ural ill n_Hri Jea,J l f i , or information can be obtained from this office 10. A $525.00 Base Fee' Applicant shall sign the "Agreement for Payment" form and provide the fee with the application. 11. Submit 3 copies of this completed application form and all the required submittal materials to the Building and Planning Department. Staff will request additional copies once the Special Use Permit application has been deemed technically complete. Il. PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS (The following steps outline how the Special Use Permit Application review process works in Garfield County.) Submit this completed application form, base fee, and all supplemental information to the Garfield County Planning Department. It will be received and given to a Staff Planner who will review the application for technical completeness. 2. Once the application is deemed technically complete. the Staff Planner will send you a letter indicating the application is complete. In addition, Staff will also send you a "Public Notice Form(s)" indicating the time and date of your hearing before the Board of County Commissioners, Prior to the public hearing, Staff will provide you with a Staff Memorandum regarding your requested Special Use. (If Staff determines you application to be deficient, a letter will be sent to you indicating that additional information is needed to deem your application complete.) It is solely the Applicant's responsibility to ensure proper noticing occurs regarding the requested Special Use and the public hearing. If proper notice has not occurred, the public hearing will not occur. Notice requirements are as follows. a. Notice by publication, including the name of the applicant, description of the subject lot, a description of the proposed special use and nature of the hearing. and the date, time and place for the hearing shall be given once in a newspaper of general circulation in that portion of the County in which the subject property is located at least thirty (30) but not more than sixty (60) days prior to the date of such hearing. and proof of publication shall be presented at hearing by the applicant. b. Notice by mail, containing information as described in the paragraph above, shall be mailed to all owners of record as shown in the County Assessor's Office of lots within two hundred feet (200') of the subject lot and to ail owners of mineral interest in the subject property at least thirty (30) but not more than sixty (60) days prior to such hearing time by certified return receipt mail, and receipts shall be presented at the hearing by the applicant. c. The site shall be posted such that the notice is clearly and conspicuously visible from a public right-of-way, with notice signs provided by the Planning Department. The posting must take place at least thirty (30) but not more than sixty (60) days prior to the hearing date and is the sole responsibility of the applicant to post the notice, and ensure that it remains posted until and during the date of the hearing. 4. The Applicant is required to appear before the Board of County Commissioners at the time and date of the public hearing at which time the Board will consider the request. In addition. the Applicant shall provide proof, at the hearing, that proper notice was provided. 5, Once the Board makes a decision regarding the Special Use request, Staff will provide the Applicant with a signed resolution memorializing the action taken by the Board. Following the Board's approval, this office will issue the Special Use Permit to the applicant. If the Board's approval includes specific conditions of approval to be met, this office will not issue the Official Special Use Permit certificate until the applicant has satisfied all conditions of approval. The Special Use Permit approval is not finalized until this office has issued the Official Special Use Permit certificate signed by the Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners. I have read the statements above and have provided the required attached information which is correct and accurate to the best of my knowledge. /./,2y-Z)g (Signa e of Pro•erty Owner) (Date) STATEMENT OF AUTHORITY Pursuant to C.R.S. §38-30-172, the undersi ned executes this Statement of Authority on behalf of : (/: Arh ss01,11- a 19 c.e.) rZ _ (corporation, limited liability company, general partnership, registered limited liability partnership, registered limited liability limited partnership, limited partnership association, government agency, trust or other), an entity other than an individual, capable of holding title to real property (the "Entity"), and states as follows: The name of the Entity is ,; Ji+1dn,,.s ' ,4cc` :Ok rnT Q.Qnni7AP3 and is formed under the laws of 1 +'4-ciiri.Q The mailing address for the Entity is [S! E Arzeapp.kp St) S L . Fe. (000 i p+u u .erL.) Q o Bc Zc 2 The name and/or position of the person authorized to execute instruments conveying, encumbering, or otherwise affecting title to real property on behalf of the Entit is The limitations upon the authority of the person named above or holding the position described above to bind the Entity are as follows: RCAKPL- 14 R Au (if no limitations, insert "None") Other matters concerning the manner in which the Entity deals with any interest in real property are: (if no athe matter, leave this section blank) EXECUTED this ZS day of NO U MEi 2 , 2008. Signature: Name(typed or printed: STATE OF (1[o /LA d U )ss. ) 67-41-1- Title (if any) : Feld eld (__,L, J lb w7svua COUNTY OF G/4 ; 11/08 7 The foregoing instrument was ack5pwledged before use this 2.J day of err. �ra 2008 by 14rud i , on behalf of nn $ nta Lid +.45Q RT T Co. d - L � 19 w 4 TLP 09 f4017144* O&) Witness my hand and official seal. My commission expires: %L fCc'Z� i JESSICA HARRIS NOTARY PUBLIC STATE OF COLORADO My Cammissbn Exakes 05i06/2012 (Notary Public) October 1, 2008 Garfield County 109 8111 Street Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 RE: Authority as Agent Dear County Representative; Williams. €CPLD ATION & PRODUCTION 1058 CR 4215 P 0. Box 370 Pxnrfium, CO 81635-0370 970/285-9377 970/285-9573 fsx Tliis letter is to confirm the appointment of Sandy Hotard and Eric lvtiller as authorized Agents to execute documents for the following; • Williams Production RMT Company • Bargath Inc. ▪ Wt'gath LLC • Ryan Gulch LLC This authority is granted for alt documents furnished to Garfield County. Sincerely, Alan Harrison Vice President Denver Region DRfSH 10/01/08 • GARFIELD COUNTY BUILDING AND PLANNING DEPARTMENT FEE SCHEDULE Garfield County, pursuant to Board of County Commissioners ("Board") Resolution No. 98-09, has established a fee structure ("Base Fee") for the processing of each type of subdivision and land use applications. The Base Fee is an estimate of the average number of hours of staff time devoted to an application, multiplied by an hourly rate for the personnel involved. The Board recognized that the subdivision and land use application processing time will vary and that an applicant should pay for the total cost of the review which may require additional billing. Hourly rates based on the hourly salary, and fringe benefits costs of the respective positions combined with an hourly overhead cost for the office will be used to establish the actual cost of County staff time devoted to the review of a particular project. Actual staff time spent will be charged against the Base Fee. After the Base Fee has been expended, the applicant will be billed based on actual staff hours accrued. Any billing shall be paid in full prior to final consideration of any land use permit, zoning amendment or subdivision plan. If an applicant has previously Illerfailed to pay application fees as required, no new or additional applications will be accepted for processing until the outstanding fees are paid. Checks, including the appropriate Base Fee set forth below, must be submitted with each land use application, and made payable to the Garfield County Treasurer. Applications will not be accepted without the required application fee. Base Fees are non-refundable in full, unless a written request for withdraw from the applicant is submitted prior the initial review of the application materials. Applications must include an Agreement for Payment Form ("Agreement") set forth below. The Agreement establishes the applicant as being responsible for payment of all costs associated with processing the application. The Agreement must be signed by the party responsible for payment and submitted with the application in order for it to be accepted. The complete fee schedule for subdivision and land use applications is attached. • GARFIED COUNTY BUILDING AND PLANNING DEPARTMENT BASE FEES The following Base Fees shall be received by the County at the time of submittal of any procedural application . to which such fees relate. Such Base Fees shall be in addition to and exclusive of any cost for publication or cast of consulting service determined necessary by the Board for the consideration of any application or additional County staff time or expense not covered by the Base Fee, which have not otherwise been paid by the applicant to the County prior to final action upon the application tendered to the County. TYPE OF PROCEDURE BASE FEE Vacating Public Roads & Rights -of -Way $400 Sketch Plan $325 Preliminary Plan $675 + application agency review fees and outside consultant review fees, as authorized pursuant to the Regulations, such as the Colorado Geologic Survey Final Plat $200 Amended Plat $100 Exemption from the Definition of Subdivision (SB -35) $300 Land Use Permits (Conditional Use Permits) • Board Public Hearing only $400 Land Use Permits (Special Use Permits) • Planning Commission and Board review & hearing $525 Zoning Amendments • Zone District map amendment $450 • Zone District text amendment $300 • • Zone District map & text amendment $500 • PUD Zone District &Text Amendment $500 • PUD Zone District Text Amendment $500 Comprehensive Plan Amendment $450 Board of Adjustment • Variance $250 • Interpretation $250 Administrative Permits • Floodplain Development $400 • Pipeline Development $400 • Minor Temporary Employee Housing $400 Checkl ist • Small Temporary Employee Housing $50 Nanning Staff Hourly Rate • Planning Director $50.50 • Senior Planner $40.50 • Nanning Technician $33.75 • Secretary $30 County Surveyor Review Fee (includes review of Amended Determined by Surveyor$ Plats, Final Plats, Exemption Plats) Mylar Recording Fee $11 — Is' page $10 each additional page Page 2 • The following guidelines shall be used for the administration of the fee structure set forth above: 1. All applications shall be submitted with a signed Agreement for Payment form set forth below. 2. County staff shall keep accurate record of actual time required for the processing of each land use application, zoning amendment, or subdivision application. Any additional billing will occur commensurate with the additional costs incurred by the County as a result of having to take more time that that covered by the base fee. 3. Any billings shall be paid prior to final consideration of any land use permit, zoning amendment, or subdivision plan. All additional costs shall be paid to the execution of the written resolution confirming action on the application. 4. Final Plats, Amended or Corrected Plats, Exemption Plats or Permits will not be recorded or issued until all fees have been paid. 5. In the event that the Board determines that special expertise is needed to assist them in the review of a land use permit, zoning amendment, or subdivision application, such costs will be borne by the applicant and paid prior to the final consideration of the application. All additional costs shall be paid prior to the execution of the written resolution confirming action on the application. .6. If an application involves multiple reviews, the Applicant shall be charged the highest Base Fee listed above. 7. Types of "Procedures" not listed in the above chart will be charged at an hourly rate based on the pertinent planning staff rate lusted above. 8. The Planning Director shall establish appropriate guidelines for the collection of Additional Billings as required. 9. This fee structure shall be revised annually as part of the County budget hearing process. Page 3 GARFIELD COUNTY BUILDING AND PLANNING DEPARTMENT AGREEMENT FOR PAYMENT FORM (Shall be submitted with application) GARFIELD COUNTY (hereinafter COUNTY) andle2.76w 1, M eel Avb /T'r, z <. (hereinafter APPLICANT) agree as follows: / 1. APPLICANT has submitted to COUNTY an application for/It:ovt-4 eS Lam�1 .S loo e 1 i ntc rh D.p� &sip (hereinafter, THE PROJE 2. APPLICANT understands and agrees that Garfield County Resolution. No. 98-O9, as amended, establishes a fee schedule for each type of subdivision or land use review applications, and the guidelines for the administration of the fee structure, 3. APPLICANT and COUNTY agree that because of the size, nature or scope of the proposed project, it is not possible at this time to ascertain the full extent of the costs involved in processing the application. APPLICANT agrees to make payment of the Base Fee, established for the PROJECT, and to thereafter permit additional costs to be billed to APPLICANT. APPLICANT agrees to make additional payments upon notification by the COUNTY when they are necessary as costs are incurred. 4. The Base Fee shall be in addition to and exclusive of any cost for publication or cost of consulting service determined necessary by the Board of County Commissioners for the consideration of an application or additional COUNTY staff time or expense not covered by the Base Fee. If actual recorded costs Ank exceed the initial Base Fee, APPLICANT shall pay additional billings to COUNTY to reimburse the COUNTY Impfor the processing of the PROJECT mentioned above. APPLICANT acknowledges that all billing shall be paid prior to the final consideration by the COUNTY of any land use permit, zoning amendment, or subdivision plan. APPLICANT ,--Signatu+ Date: //-,2*'-' Print Na4ne Mailing Address: /// tail 34'1 Shz eS 50, le 1 / s;16.5 1 t)/2004 Page 4 i1'iIIi lwm 1'�rhwrellwm & Pttrtluw ttwwtt 105S ('igun{k' R4 .itI'_ 15 P.0. B 3711 P:uachutt•. CO ►a:5 1}711-2$5,."377 4a71F-2S5-')5731 FAX 1 Williams November 11, 2008 Wagon Wheel Consulting, Inc. Attn: Jimmy Smith 111 E. 3111 St., Suite 213 Rifle, CO 81650 RE: Authorized Agent Jimmy, This letter serves as authorization for you to act as an authorized agent of Williams Exploration and Production ("Williams") with respect to William's project permitting needs with. Garfield County, Colorado. Sincerely, ,/cL„,„_ Brad Moss Production Superintendent Pipeline Superintendent Office: 970-285-9377 Cell: 970-250-3683 Email: brad.moss(williams.coni • SPECIAL USE PERMIT WILLIAMS PRODUCTION RMT SMITH GULCH COMPRESSOR STATION TABLE OF CONTENTS Part 1 SUP Application Part I1 Associated Permits Part III Project Description Part IV Impact Statement Part V Site Plan Part VI Surface Topo Map 41110 Part VI! Area Parcel Map / Adjacent Landowners Part VIII Proof of Ownership / Land Agreements Part IX Legal Description Part X Emergency Response Plan Part Xl Weed Control & Vegetation Plan Part XII Stormwater Management Plan Part XIII Spill Prevention Control & Countermeasure Plan (SPCC Plan) Part XIV Wildlife Study Part XV Traffic Study • Part XVI Sound. Study Part XVII Soil Study • • Williams Hoover Express Compressor Station Williams will be filing an air permit application with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to comply with the applicable state Air Quality Control Regulation for obtaining an air permit prior to construction. The CDPHE will issue an air construction permit for the installation of the Hoover Express Compressor Station and Williams will comply with the applicable air quality requirements specified by that permit. In addition, Williams will comply with any other applicable local, state or federal air quality control regulations including those associated with smoke and particulate matter emissions impacting adjacent land. CO4IPLIAIVCE ?TONS INC. En rir oru nen tc+/ Consulting June 18, 2008 Mr. Mike Shoemaker Regulatory Specialist Williams Production RMT Company 1058 County Road 215 Parachute, Colorado 81635 Transmittal letter 216 North Ave., Suite 1 Grand Junction, CO 81501 Phone: 970-243-3271 Fax: 970-243-3280 Dear Mr. Shoemaker: Enclosed you will find a signed 404 investigation report for the Hoover Express Compressor and 12" Pipeline project. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact me at the above number. Sincerely; HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. Maurice Foye Wetland Scientist cc: File Attachments: Report Appendix A Appendix B HRL Compliance solutions, Inc. Grand Junction, CO Environmental Consulting Professionals f -i' COMPLIANCE En vir onmen t a/ Consulting Pxinc 17.201,( - Mr. Mike Shoemaker Regulatory Specialist Williams Production RMT Company 1058 County Road 215 Parachute, Colorado 81635 216 North Ave., Suite I Grand Junction, CO 81501 Phone: 970-243-3271 Fax: 970-243-3280 RE: Hoover Express Compressor Station and Pipeline 404 investigation Dear Mr. Shoemaker: HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. (HCS) was contracted by Williams Production RMT Company (Williams), to establish and document all potential disturbance to Waters of the United States, (as described by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) definition of Waters of the United States), on the proposed Hoover Express Compressor Station and 12 inch pipeline, located in Garfield County, Colorado. In summary, HCSI has determined that construction of the Hoover Express project, as illustrated in Appendix A, Figure 31, has a minimal and temporary impact to Waters of the U.S. and meets the general conditions and guidelines of the ACOE NWP 12. Purpose and Scope The purpose of this analysis is to locate and delineate all Waters of the U.S. within the proposed disturbance area of the Hoover Express Compressor Station and 12 inch Pipeline Project, and if identified, map boundaries of all jurisdictional waters. If disturbance is deemed probable, identify all actions required by ACOE NWP 12 guidelines and general conditions (attached as Appendix B). The scope of the analysis is to calculate and assess total acreage of disturbance within the proposed construction area as labeled on the provided map, and recommend remedial actions if necessary. Established Waters of the United States (404 Locations) Upon investigation, 15 ephemeral drainages were identified as jurisdictional Waters. They are illustrated in Appendix A, Figures 1-30. The area of expected temporary disturbance is displayed in Appendix A, Figure 31. HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. Grand Junction, CO Environmental Consulting Professionals • Mr. Mike Shoemaker June 17, 2008 The native vegetation within and adjacent to the drainages and within the proposed disturbance area consists of several species including Sagebrush (Artemisia, sp), Rubber Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus), and Shadscale saltbush (Atriplex confertifolia). Tamarisk (Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb.) and cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) were species observed which are considered noxious and/or exotic invasive. Conclusion HCSI concludes that the proposed construction as described on Appendix A Figure 16, will have a temporary and minimal impact to Waters of the U.S. and is determined to qualify for an USACOE NWP 12. NWP 12 conditions of approval and general guidelines should be adhered to, including; inclusion and implementation of storm water management best management practices (BMPs) to minimize sediment discharge into the drainages during construction. During construction, HCSI recommends the removal of as many of the noxious weed species encountered as possible. If I-IRL Compliance Solutions Inc. can be of any further assistance, please feel free to give us a call. Respectfully; HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. Maurice Foye Environmental Scientist Project Manager cc: Rob Bleil, Williams, RMT Dan Hoover. Williams, RMT Quentin Smith, Wagon. Wheel Consulting Herman Lucero, HCSI f le attachments: Appendix A Appendix B Ifoover Express 404 Investigation Report Williams RMT Appendix A Figures 1-31 Figure 1. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing i Figure 2. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing la Figure 3. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 2 Figure 4. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 2a • • Figure 5. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 3 Figure 6. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 3a • Figure 7. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 4 Figure 8. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 4a • Figure 9. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 5 Figure 10. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 5a • Figure 11. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 6 Figure 12. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 6a • • Figure 13. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 7 Figure 14. Ephemera! Drainage Crossing 7a Figure 15. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 8 Figure 16. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 8a Figure IT. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 9 Figure 18. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 9a • • Figure 19. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing l0 Figure 20. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 10a • • • Figure 21. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 1 1 Figure 22. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 1 la • Figure 23. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 12 Figure 24. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 12a • Figure 25. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 13 Figure 26, Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 13a • • Figure 27. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 14 Figure 28. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing I4a • • • Figure 29. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing 15 Figure 30. Ephemeral Drainage Crossing l 5a • r h W 82828800pp p W 0 0 0 0 0 G C 6 b O 6 O 0 d 0 0 6 'O O G O Vl YS 2 N N N ph Yr, 0 0 '0 0 "ar so as n nr. s 7 M M f ° ' N N Evbk • 0 O a fY) CJ 0 0 s v cv v ss 0 u^ 0 0 G 0 U [Si r.. 0 0 0 0 0 0 Appendix B ACOE NWP 12 Guidelines and General Conditions U S Army Corps of Engineers Sacramento District Nationwide Permit Summary 33 CFR Part 330; Issuance of Nationwide Permits - March 19, 2007 includes corrections of May 8, 2007 and addition of regional conditions December 2007 12. Utility Line Activities. Activities required for the construction, maintenance, repair, and removal of utility lines and associated facilities in waters of the United States, provided the activity does not result in the loss of greater than 112 acre of waters of the United States. Utility lines: This NWP authorizes the construction, maintenance, or repair of utility lines, including outfall and intake structures, and the associated excavation, backfill, or bedding for the utility lines, in all waters of the United States, provided there is no change in pre -construction contours. A "utility line" is defined as any pipe or pipeline for the transportation of any gaseous, liquid, liquescent, or slurry substance, for any purpose, and any cable, line, or wire for the transmission for any purpose of electrical energy, telephone, and telegraph messages, and radio and television communication. The term `futility line" does not include activities that drain a water of the United States, such as drainage tile or french drains, but it does apply to pipes conveying drainage from another area. Material resulting from trench excavation may be temporarily sidecast into waters of the United States for no mare than three months, provided the material is not placed in such a manner that it is dispersed by currents or other forces. The district engineer may extend the period of temporary side casting for no more than a total of 180 days, where appropriate. In wetlands, the top 6 to 12 inches of the trench should normally be backfilled with topsoil from the trench. The trench cannot be constructed or backfilled in such a manner as to drain waters of the United States (e.g., backfilling with extensive gravel layers, creating a french drain effect). Any exposed slopes and stream banks must be stabilized immediately upon completion of the utility line crossing of each waterbody. Utility line substations: This NWP authorizes the construction, maintenance, or expansion of substation facilities associated with a power line or utility line in non -tidal waters of the United States, provided the activity, in combination with all other activities included in one single and complete project, does not result in the loss of greater than 1/2 acre of waters of the United States. This NWP does not authorize discharges into non -tidal wetlands adjacent to tidal waters of the United States to construct, maintain, or expand substation facilities. Foundations for overhead utility line towers, poles, and anchors: This NWP authorizes the construction or maintenance of foundations for overhead utility line towers, poles, and anchors in all waters of the United States, provided the foundations are the minimum size necessary and separate footings for each tower leg (rather than a larger single pad) are used where feasible. Access roads: This NWP authorizes the construction of access roads for the construction and maintenance of utility lines, including overhead power lines and utility line substations, in non -tidal waters of the United States, provided the total discharge from a single and complete project does not cause the loss of greater than 1/2 -acre of non -tidal waters of the United States. This NWP does not authorize discharges into non -tidal wetlands adjacent to tidal waters for access roads. Access roads must be the minimum width necessary (see Note 2, below). Access roads must be constructed so that the length of the road minimizes any adverse effects on waters of the United States and must be as near as possible to pre -construction contours and elevations (e.g., at grade corduroy roads or geotextile/gravel roads). Access roads constructed above pre -construction contours and elevations in waters of the United States must be properly bridged or culverted to maintain surface flows. This NWP may authorize utility lines in or affecting navigable waters of the United States even if there is no associated discharge of dredged or fill material (See 33 CFR Part 322). Overhead utility lines constructed over section 10 waters and utility lines that are routed in or under section 10 waters without a discharge of dredged or fill material require a section 10 permit. This NWP also authorizes temporary structures, fills, and work necessary to conduct the utility line activity. Appropriate measures must be taken to maintain normal downstream flows and minimize flooding to the maximum extent practicable, when temporary structures, work, and discharges, including cofferdams, are necessary for construction activities, access fills, or dewatering of construction sites. Temporary fills must consist of materials, and be placed in a manner, that will not be eroded by expected high flows. Temporary fills must be removed in their entirety and the affected areas returned to pre -construction elevations. The areas affected by temporary fills must be revegetated, as appropriate. Notification: The permittee must submit a pre -construction notification to the district engineer prior to commencing the activity if any of the following criteria are met: (1) the activity involves mechanized land clearing in a forested wetland for the utility line right-of-way; (2) a section 10 permit is required; (3) the utility line in waters of the United States, excluding overhead lines, exceeds 500 feet; (4) the utility line is placed within a jurisdictional area (i.e., water of the United States), and it runs parallel to a stream bed that is within that jurisdictional area; (5) discharges that result in the loss of greater than 1/10 -acre of waters of the United States; (6) permanent access roads are constructed above grade in waters of the United States for a distance of more than 500 feet; or (7) permanent access roads are constructed in waters of the United States with impervious materials. (See general condition 27.) (Sections 10 and 404) Note 1: Where the proposed utility line is constructed or installed in navigable waters of the United States (i.e., section 10 waters), copies of the pre -construction notification and NWP verification will be sent by the Corps to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Ocean Service (NOS), for charting the utility line to protect navigation. Note 2: Access roads used for both construction and maintenance may be authorized, provided they meet the terms and conditions of this NWP. Access roads used solely for construction of the utility line must be removed upon completion of the work, accordance with the requirements for temporary fills. Nationwide 12 Permit Summary Note 3: Pipes or pipelines used to transport gaseous, liquid, liquescent, or slurry substances over navigable waters of the United States are considered to be bridges, not utility lines, and may require a permit from the U.S. Coast Guard pursuant to Section 9 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899. However, any discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States associated with such pipelines will require a section 404 permit (see NWP 15) A. Nationwide Permit General Conditions Note: To qualify for NWP authorization, the prospective permittee must comply with the following general conditions, as appropriate, in addition to any regional or case -specific conditions imposed by the division engineer or district engineer. Prospective permittees should contact the appropriate Corps district office to determine if regional conditions have been imposed on an NWP. Prospective permittees should also contact the appropriate Corps district office to determine the status of Clean Water Act Section 401 water quality certification andlor Coastal Zone Management Act consistency for an NWP. ▪ 1. Navigation. (a) No activity may cause more than a minimal adverse effect on navigation. ❑ (b) Any safety lights and signals prescribed by the U.S. Coast Guard, through regulations or otherwise, must be installed and maintained at the permittee's expense on authorized facilities in navigable waters of the United States. 0 (c) The permittee understands and agrees that, if future operations by the United States require the removal, relocation, or other alteration, of the structure or work herein authorized, or if, in the opinion of the Secretary of the Army or his authorized representative, said structure or work shall cause unreasonable obstruction to the free navigation of the navigable waters, the permittee will be required, upon due notice from the Corps of Engineers, to remove, relocate, or alter the structural work or obstructions caused thereby, without expense to the United States. No claim shall he made against the United States on account of any such removal or alteration. O 2. Aquatic Life Movements. No activity may substantially disrupt the necessary life cycle movements of those species of aquatic life indigenous to the waterbody, including those species that normally migrate through the area, unless the activity's primary purpose is to impound water. Culverts placed in streams must be installed to maintain low flow conditions. O 3 Spawning Areas. Activities in spawning areas during spawning seasons must be avoided to the maximum extent practicable. Activities that result in the physical destruction (e.g., through excavation, fill, or downstream smothering by substantial turbidity) of an important spawning area are not authorized. ❑ 4. Migratory Bird Breeding Areas. Activities in waters of the United States that serve as breeding areas for migratory birds must be avoided to the maximum extent practicable. Page 2 0 5. Shellfish Beds. No activity may occur in areas of concentrated shellfish populations, unless the activity is directly related to a shellfish harvesting activity authorized by NWPs 4 and 48. • 6. Suitable Material. No activity may use unsuitable material (e.g., trash, debris, car bodies, asphalt, etc.). Material used for construction or discharged must be free from toxic pollutants in toxic amounts (see Section 307 of the Clean Water Act). ID 7. Water Supply Intakes. No activity may occur in the proximity of a public water supply intake, except where the activity is for the repair or improvement of public water supply intake structures or adjacent bank stabilization. ❑ 8. Adverse Effects From Impoundments. If the activity creates an impoundment of water, adverse effects to the aquatic system due to accelerating the passage of water, andlor restricting its flow must be minimized to the maximum extent practicable. ❑ 9. Management of Water Flows. To the maximum extent practicable, the pre -construction course, condition, capacity, and location of open waters must be maintained for each activity, including stream channelization and storm water management activities, except as provided below. The activity must be constructed to withstand expected high flows. The activity must not restrict or impede the passage of normal or high flows, unless the primary purpose of the activity is to impound water or manage high flows. The activity may alter the pre -construction course, condition, capacity, and location of open waters if it benefits the aquatic environment (e.g., stream restoration or relocation activities). ❑ 10. Fills Within 100 -Year Floodplains. The activity must comply with applicable FEMA -approved state or local floodplain management requirements. ❑ 11. Equipment. Heavy equipment working in wetlands or mudflats must be placed on mats, or other measures must be taken to minimize soil disturbance. ❑ 12. Soil Erosion and Sediment Controls. Appropriate soil erosion and sediment controls must be used and maintained in effective operating condition during construction, and all exposed soil and other fills, as well as any work below the ordinary high water mark or high tide line, must be permanently stabilized at the earliest practicable date. Permittees are encouraged to perform work within waters of the United States during periods of low -flow or no -flow. ❑ 13. Removal of Temporary Fills. Temporary fills must be removed in their entirety and the affected areas returned to pre - construction elevations. The affected areas must be revegetated, as appropriate, ❑ 14. Proper Maintenance. Any authorized structure or fill shall be properly maintained, including maintenance to ensure public safety. ❑ 15. Wild and Scenic Rivers. No activity may occur in a component of the National Wild and Scenic River System, or in a river officially designated by Congress as a "study river" for possible inclusion in the system while the river is in an official study status, unless the appropriate Federal agency with direct management responsibility for such river, has determined in Nationwide 12 Permit Summan writing that the proposed activity will not adversely affect the Wild and Scenic River designation or study status. Information on Wild and Scenic Rivers may be obtained from the appropriate Federal land management agency in the area (e.g., National Park Service. U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management. U.S. l3'ish and Wildlife Service). ❑ 16. Tribal Rights. No activity or its operation may impair reserved tribal rights, including, but not limited to. reserved water rights and treaty fishing and hunting rights. O 17. Endangered Species. O (a) No activity is authorized under any NWP which is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a threatened or endangered species or a species proposed for such designation, as identified under the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA), or which will destroy or adversely modify the critical habitat of such species. No activity is authorized under any NWP which "may affect" a listed species or critical habitat, unless Section 7 consultation addressing the effects of the proposed activity has been completed. O (b) Federal agencies should follow their own procedures for complying with the requirements of the ESA. Federal permit -tees must provide the district engineer with the appropriate documentation to demonstrate compliance with those requirements. ❑ (c) Non-federal permittees shall notify the district engineer if any listed species or designated critical habitat might be affected or is in the vicinity of the project, or lithe project is located in designated critical habitat, and shall not begin work on the activity until notified by the district engineer that the requirements of the ESA have been satisfied and that the activity is authorized. For activities that might affect Federally -listed endangered or threatened species or designated critical habitat, the pre -construction notification must include the name(s) of the endangered or threatened species that may be affected by the proposed work or that utilize the designated critical habitat that may be affected by the proposed work. The district engineer will determine whether the proposed activity "may affect" or will have "no effect" to listed species and designated critical habitat and will notify the non -Federal applicant of the Corps' determination within 45 days of receipt of a complete pre - construction notification. In cases where the non -Federal applicant has identified listed species or critical habitat that might be affected or is in the vicinity of the project. and has so notified the Corps. the applicant shall not begin work until the Corps has provided notification the proposed activities will have "no effect" on listed species or critical habitat, or until Section 7 consultation has been completed. O (d) As a result of formal or informal consultation with the F WS or NMFS the district engineer may add species-specific regional endangered species conditions to the N W Ps. ❑ (e) Authorization of an activity by a NWP does not authorize the "take" of a threatened or endangered species as defined under the ESA. In the absence of f':t t separate authorization (e.g.,, an ESA Section 10 Permit, a Biological Opinion with "incidental take" provisions, etc.) from the U.S. FWS or the NMFS, both lethal and non- lethal "rakes" of protected species are in violation of the ESA. Information on the location of threatened and endangered species and their critical habitat can be obtained directly from the offices of the U.S. F W S and NMFS or their world wide Web pages at l'7tt L144k1,tt�s,114,t and http vkv. lisheries.Iiilitl respectively. 0 18. Historic Properties. El (a) In cases where the district engineer determines that the activity may affect properties listed, or eligible for listing. in the National Register of Historic Places, the activity is not authorized, until the requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) have been satisfied. ❑ (b) Federal permittees should follow their own procedures for complying with the requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Federal permittees must provide the district engineer with the appropriate documentation to demonstrate compliance with those requirements. ❑ (c) Non-federal permittees must submit a pre - construction notification to the district engineer if the authorized activity may have the potential to cause effects to any historic properties listed, determined to be eligible for listing on, or potentially eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, including previously unidentified properties. For such activities, the pre - construction notification must state which historic properties may be affected by the proposed work or include a vicinity map indicating the location of the historic properties or the potential for the presence of historic properties. Assistance regarding information on the location of or potential for the presence of historic resources can be sought from the State Historic Preservation Officer or Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, as appropriate. and the National Register of Historic Places (see 33 CFR 330.4(g)). The district engineer shall make a reasonable and good faith effort to carry out appropriate identification efforts, which may include background research, consultation, oral history interviews, sample field investigation, and field survey. Based on the information submitted and these efforts, the district engineer shall determine whether the proposed activity has the potential to cause an effect on the historic properties. Where the non -Federal applicant has identified historic properties which the activity may have the potential to cause effects and so notified the Corps, the non -Federal applicant shall not begin the activity until notified by the district engineer either that the activity has no potential to cause effects or that consultation under Section 106 of the NHPA has been completed. 0 (d) The district engineer will notify the prospective permittee within 45 days of receipt of a complete pre -construction notification whether NHPA Section 106 consultation is required. Section 106 consultation is not required when the Corps determines that the activity does not have the potential to cause Nationwide 12 Permit Summary effects on historic properties (see 36 CFR §800.3(a)). If NHPA section 106 consultation is required and will occur, the district engineer will notify the non -Federal applicant that he or she cannot begin work until Section 106 consultation is completed. ❑ (e) Prospective permittees should be aware that section 110k of the NHPA (16 U.S.C. 470h -2(k)) prevents the Corps from granting a permit or other assistance to an applicant who, with intent to avoid the requirements of Section 106 of the NI -TPA, has intentionally significantly adversely affected a historic property to which the permit would relate, or having legal power to prevent it, allowed such significant adverse effect to occur, unless the Corps, after consultation with the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP), determines that circumstances justify granting such assistance despite the adverse effect created or permitted by the applicant. If circumstances justify granting the assistance, the Corps is required to notify the ACHP and provide documentation specifying the circumstances, explaining the degree of damage to the integrity of any historic properties affected, and proposed mitigation. This documentation must include any views obtained from the applicant, SHPO/THPO, appropriate Indian tribes if the undertaking occurs on or affects historic properties on tribal lands or affects properties of interest to those tribes, and other parties known to have a legitimate interest in the impacts to the permitted activity on historic properties. ❑ 19. Designated Critical Resource Waters. Critical resource waters include, NOAA-designated marine sanctuaries, National Estuarine Research Reserves, state natural heritage sites, and outstanding national resource waters or other waters officially designated by a state as having particular environmental or ecological significance and identified by the district engineer after notice and opportunity for public comment. The district engineer may also designate additional critical resource waters after notice and opportunity for comment. © (a) Discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States are not authorized by NWPs 7, 12, 14, 16, 17, 21, 29, 31, 35, 39, 40, 42, 43, 44, 49, and 50 for any activity within, or directly affecting, critical resource waters, including wetlands adjacent to such waters. ❑ (b) For NWPs 3, 8, 10, 13, 15, 18, 19, 22, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 33, 34, 36, 37, and 38, notification is required in accordance with general condition 27, for any activity proposed in the designated critical resource waters including wetlands adjacent to those waters. The district engineer may authorize activities under these NWPs only after it is determined that the impacts to the critical resource waters will be no more than minimal. 0 20 Mitigation. The district engineer will consider the following factors when determining appropriate and practicable mitigation necessary to ensure that adverse effects on the aquatic environment are minimal; ❑ (a) The activity must be designed and constructed to avoid and minimize adverse effects, both temporary and permanent, to waters of the United States Page 4 to the maximum extent practicable at the project site (i.e., on site). O (b) Mitigation in all its forms (avoiding, minimizing, rectifying, reducing, or compensating) will be required 10 the extent necessary to ensure that the adverse effects to the aquatic environment are minimal. O (c) Compensatory mitigation at a minimum one-for-one ratio will be required for all wetland losses that exceed 1/10 acre and require pre -construction notification, unless the district engineer determines in writing that some other form of mitigation would be more environmentally appropriate and provides a project - specific waiver of this requirement. For wetland losses of 1/10 acre or less that require pre -construction notification, the district engineer may determine on a case-by-case basis that compensatory mitigation is required to ensure that the activity results in minimal adverse effects on the aquatic environment. Since the likelihood of success is greater and the impacts to potentially valuable uplands are reduced, wetland restoration should be the first compensatory mitigation option considered. O (d) For losses of streams or other open waters that require pre -construction notification, the district engineer may require compensatory mitigation, such as stream restoration, to ensure that the activity results in minimal adverse effects on the aquatic environment. © (e) Compensatory mitigation will not be used to increase the acreage losses allowed by the acreage limits of the. NWPs. For example, if an NWP has an acreage limit of 1/2 acre, it cannot be used to authorize any project resulting in the loss of greater than 1/2 acre of waters of the United States, even if compensatory mitigation is provided that replaces or restores some of the lost waters. However, compensatory mitigation can and should be used, as necessary, to ensure that a project already meeting the established acreage limits also satisfies the minimal impact requirement associated with the NWPs. ❑ (f) Compensatory mitigation plans for projects in or near streams or other open waters will normally include a requirement for the establishment, maintenance, and legal protection (e.g., conservation easements) of riparian areas next to open waters. In some cases, riparian areas may be the only compensatory mitigation required. Riparian areas should consist of native species. The width of the required riparian area will address documented water quality or aquatic habitat loss concerns. Normally, the riparian area will be 25 to 50 feet wide on each side of the stream, but the district engineer may require slightly wider riparian areas to address documented water quality or habitat loss concerns. Where both wetlands and open waters exist on the project site, the district engineer will determine the appropriate compensatory mitigation (e.g., riparian areas and/or wetlands compensation) based on what is best for the aquatic environment on a watershed basis. In cases where riparian areas are determined to be the most appropriate form of compensatory mitigation, the district engineer may waive or reduce the requirement to provide wetland compensatory mitigation for wetland losses. Nationwide 12 Permit Summary ❑ (g) Permittees may propose the use of mitigation banks, in -lieu fee arrangements or separate activity -specific compensatory mitigation. In all cases, the mitigation provisions will specify the party responsible for accomplishing and/or complying with the mitigation plan. ❑ (h) Where certain functions and services of waters of the United States are permanently adversely affected, such as the conversion of a forested or scrub - shrub wetland to a herbaceous wetland in a permanently maintained utility line right-of-way, mitigation may be required to reduce the adverse effects of the project to the minimal level. ® 21. Water Quality. Where States and authorized Tribes, or EPA where applicable, have not previously certified compliance ofan NWP with CWA Section 401, individual 401 Water Quality Certification must be obtained or waived (see 33 CFR 330.4(e)). The district engineer or State or Tribe may require additional water quality management measures to ensure that the authorized activity does not result in more than minimal degradation of water quality, ❑ 22. Coastal Zone Management. In coastal states where an NWP has not previously received a state coastal zone management consistency concurrence, an individual state coastal zone management consistency concurrence must be obtained, or a presumption of concurrence must occur (see 33 CFR 330.4(d)). The district engineer or a State may require additional measures to ensure that the authorized activity is consistent with state coastal zone management requirements. ❑ 23. Regional and Case -By -Case Conditions. The activity must comply with any regional conditions that may have been added by the Division' Engineer (see 33 CFR 330.4(e)) and with any case specific conditions added by the Corps or by the state, Indian Tribe, or U.S. EPA in its section 401 Water Quality Certification, or by the state in its Coastal Zone Management Act consistency determination. ❑ 24. Use of Multiple Nationwide Permits. The use of more than one NWP for a single and complete project is prohibited, except when the acreage loss of waters of the United States authorized by the NWPs does not exceed the acreage limit of the NWP with the highest specified acreage limit. For example, if a road crossing over tidal waters is constructed under NWP 14, with associated bank stabilization authorized by NWP 13, the maximum acreage loss of waters of the United States for the total project cannot exceed 1/3 -acre. ® 25. Transfer of Nationwide Permit Verifications. If the permittee sells the property associated with a nationwide permit verification, the permittee may transfer the nationwide permit verification to the new owner by submitting a letter to the appropriate Corps district office to validate the transfer. A copy of the nationwide permit verification must be attached to the letter, and the letter must contain the following statement and signature: "When the structures or work authorized by this nationwide permit are still in existence at the time the property is transferred, the terms and conditions of this. nationwide permit, including any special conditions, will continue to be binding on the new owners) of the property. To validate the transfer of this nationwide permit and the associated liabilities associated with compliance with its terms and conditions, have the transferee sign and date below." (Transferee) (Date) Page 5 0 26. Compliance Certification. Each permittee who received an NWP verification from the Corps must submit a signed certification regarding the completed work and any required mitigation. The certification form must be forwarded by the Corps with the NWP verification letter and will include: O (a) A statement that the authorized work was done in accordance with the NWP authorization, including any general or specific conditions; D (b) A statement that any required mitigation was completed in accordance with the permit conditions; and ❑ (c) The signature of the permittee certifying the completion of the work and mitigation. 0 27. Pre -Construction Notification. • (a) Timing.. Where required by the terms of the NWP, the prospective permittee must notify the district engineer by submitting a pre -construction notification (PCN) as early as possible. The district engineer must determine if the PCN is complete within 30 calendar days of the date of receipt and, as a general rule, will request additional information necessary to make the PCN complete only once. However, if the prospective permittee does not provide all of the requested information, then the district engineer will notify the prospective permittee that the PCN is still incomplete and the PCN review process will not commence until all of the requested inforniation has been received by the district engineer. The prospective permittee shall not begin the activity until either: ❑ (1) He or she is notified in writing by the district engineer that the activity may proceed under the NWP with any special conditions imposed by the district or division engineer; or ❑ (2) Forty-five calendar days have passed from the district engineer's receipt of the complete PCN and the prospective permittee has not received written notice from the district or division engineer. However, if the permittee was required to notify the Corps pursuant to general condition 17 that listed species or critical habitat might affected or in the vicinity of the project, or to notify the Corps pursuant to general condition 18 that the activity may have the potential to cause effects to historic properties, the permittee cannot begin the activity until receiving written notification from the Corps that is "no effect" on listed species or "no potential to cause effects" on historic properties, or that any consultation required under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (see Nationwide 12 Permit Summary 33 CFR 330.4(f)) andlor Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation (see 33 CFR 330.4(g)) is completed. Also, work cannot begin under NWPs 21, 49, or 50 until the permittee has received written approval from the Corps. If the proposed activity requires a written waiver to exceed specified limits of an NWP, the permittee cannot begin the activity until the district engineer issues the waiver. If the district or division engineer notifies the permittee in writing that an individual permit is required within 45 calendar days of receipt of a complete PCN, the permittee cannot begin the activity until an individual permit has been obtained. Subsequently, the permittee's right to proceed under the NWP may be modified, suspended, or revoked only in accordance with the procedure set forth in 33 CFR 330.5(d)(2). ❑ (b) Contents of Pre -Construction Notification: The PCN must be in writing and include the following information: ❑ (1) Name, address and telephone numbers of the prospective permittee; LI (2) location of the proposed project; 171 (3) A description of the proposed project; the project's purpose; direct and indirect adverse environmental effects the project would cause; any other NWP(s), regional general permit(s), or individual permit(s) used or intended to be used to authorize any part of the proposed project or any related activity. The description should be sufficiently detailed to allow the district engineer to determine that the adverse effects of the project will be minimal and to determine the need for compensatory mitigation. Sketches should be provided when necessary to show that the activity complies with the terms of the NWP. (Sketches usually clarify the project and when provided result in a quicker decision.); O (4) The PCN must include a delineation of special aquatic sites and other waters of the United States on the project site. Wetland delineations must be prepared in accordance with the current method required by the Corps. The permittee may ask the Corps to delineate the special aquatic sites and other waters of the United States, but there may be a delay if the Corps does the delineation, especially lithe project site is large or contains many waters of the United States. Furthermore, the 45 day period will not start until the delineation has been submitted to or completed by the Corps, where appropriate; O (5) If the proposed activity will result in the loss of greater than 1/10 acre of wetlands and a PCN is required, the prospective permittee must submit a statement describing how the mitigation requirement will be satisfied. As an alternative, the prospective permittee may submit a conceptual or detailed mitigation plan. ❑ (6) If any listed species or designated critical habitat might be affected or is in the vicinity Page 6 of the project, or if the project is located in designated critical habitat, for non -Federal applicants the PCN must include the names) of those endangered or threatened species that might be affected by the proposed work or utilize the designated critical habitat that may be affected by the proposed work. Federal applicants must provide documentation demonstrating compliance with the Endangered Species Act; and O (7) For an activity that may affect a historic property listed on, determined to be eligible for listing on, or potentially eligible for listing on, the National Register of Historic Places, for non -Federal applicants the PCN must state which historic property may be affected by the proposed work or include a vicinity map indicating the location of the historic property. Federal applicants must provide documentation demonstrating compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. 0 (c) Form of Pre -Construction. Notification: The standard individual permit application fonn (Form ENG 4345) may be used, but the completed application form must clearly indicate that it is a PCN and must include all of the information required in paragraphs (b)(1) through (7) of this general condition. A letter containing the required information may also be used. ❑ (d) Agency Coordination: O (1) The district engineer will consider any comments from Federal and state agencies concerning the proposed activity's compliance with the terms and conditions of the NWPs and the need for mitigation to reduce the project's adverse environmental effects to a minimal level. O (2) For all NWP 48 activities requiring pre - construction notification and for other NWP activities requiring pre -construction notification to the district engineer that result in the loss of greater than 112 -acre of waters of the United States, the district engineer will immediately provide (e.g., via facsimile transmission, overnight mail, or other expeditious manner) a copy of the PCN to the appropriate Federal or state offices (U.S. FWS, state natural resource or water quality agency, EPA, State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) or Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO), and., if appropriate, the NMFS). With the exception of NWP 37, these agencies will then have 10 calendar days from the date the material is transmitted to telephone or fax the district engineer notice that they intend to provide substantive, site-specific comments. If so contacted by an agency, the district engineer will wait an additional 15 calendar days before making a decision on the pre -construction notification. The district engineer will fully consider agency comments received within the specified time frame, but will provide no response to the resource agency, except as provided below. The district engineer will indicate in the administrative record associated with each pre - construction notification that the resource agencies" • • Nationwide 12 Permit Summary Page 7 concerns were considered. For NWP 37, the emergency watershed protection and rehabilitation activity may proceed immediately in cases where there is an unacceptable haaard to life or a significant loss of property or economic hardship will occur. The district engineer will consider any comments received to decide whether the NWP 37 authorization should be modified, suspended, or revoked in accordance with the procedures at 33 CFR 330.5. ▪ (3) In cases of where the prospective permittee is not a Federal agency, the district engineer will provide a response to NMFS within 30 calendar days of receipt of any Essential Fish Habitat conservation recommendations, as required by Section 305(b)(4)(B) of the Magnuson -Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. ❑ (4) Applicants are encouraged to provide the Corps multiple copies of pre -construction notifications to expedite agency coordination. 0 (5) For NWP 48 activities that require reporting, the district engineer will provide a copy of each report within 10 calendar days of receipt to the appropriate regional office of the NMFS. ❑ (e) In reviewing the PCN for the proposed activity, the district engineer will determine whether the activity authorized by the NWP will result in more than minimal individual or cumulative adverse environmental effects or may be contrary to the public interest. If the proposed activity requires a PCN and will result in a loss of greater than 1110 acre of wetlands, the prospective permittee should submit a mitigation proposal with the PCN. Applicants may also propose compensatory mitigation for projects with smaller impacts. The district engineer will consider any proposed compensatory mitigation the applicant has included in the proposal in determining whether the net adverse environmental effects to the aquatic environment of the proposed work are minimal. The compensatory mitigation proposal may be either conceptual or detailed. If the district engineer determines that the activity complies with the terms and conditions of the NWP and that the adverse effects on the aquatic environment are minimal, after considering mitigation, the district engineer will notify the permittee and include any conditions the district engineer deems necessary. The district engineer must approve any compensatory mitigation proposal before the permittee commences work. If the prospective permittee elects to submit a compensatory mitigation plan with the PCN, the district engineer will expeditiously review the proposed compensatory mitigation plan. The district engineer must review the plan within 45 calendar days of receiving a complete PCN and determine whether the proposed mitigation would ensure no more than minimal adverse effects on the aquatic environment. lithe net adverse effects of the project on the aquatic environment (after consideration of the compensatory mitigation proposal) are determined by the district engineer to be minimal, the district engineer will provide a timely written response to the applicant. The response will state that the project can proceed under the terms and conditions of the NWP. If the district engineer determines that the adverse effects of the proposed work are more than minimal, then the district engineer will notify the applicant either: (1) That the project does not qualify for authorization under the NWP and instruct the applicant on the procedures to seek authorization under an individual permit; (2) that the project is authorized under the NWP subject to the applicant's submission of a mitigation plan that would reduce the adverse effects on the aquatic environment to the minimal level; or (3) that the project is authorized under the NWP with specific modifications or conditions. Where the district engineer determines that mitigation is required to ensure no more than minimal adverse effects occur to the aquatic environment, the activity will be authorized within the 45 -day PCN period. The authorization will include the necessary conceptual or specific mitigation or a requirement that the applicant submit a mitigation plan that would reduce the adverse effects on the aquatic environment to the minimal level. When mitigation is required, no work in waters of the United States may occur until the district engineer has approved a specific mitigation plan. 0 (a) 28. Single and Complete Project. The activity must be a single and complete project. The same NWP cannot be used more than once for the same single and complete project. B. Regional Conditions: L Sacramento District (All States, except Colorado) 1. When pre -construction notification (PCN) is required, the prospective permittee shall notify the Sacramento District in accordance with General Condition 27 using either the South Pacific Division Preconstruction Notification (PCN) Checklist or a completed application form (ENG Form 4345). In addition, the PCN shall include: a. A written statement explaining how the activity has been designed to avoid and minimize adverse effects, both temporary and permanent, to waters of the United States; b. Drawings, including plan and cross-section views, clearly depicting the location, size and dimensions of the proposed activity. The drawings shall contain a title block, legend and scale, amount (in cubic yards) and size (in acreage) of fitl in Corps jurisdiction, including both permanent and temporary fills/structures. The ordinary high water mark or, if tidal waters, the high tide line should be shown (in feet), based on National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) or other appropriate referenced elevation; and c. Pre -project color photographs of the project site taken from designatedlocations documented on the plan drawing. 2. The permittee shall complete compensatory mitigation required by special conditions of the NWP verification before or concurrent with construction of the authorized activity, except when specifically determined to be impracticable by the Sacramento District. When project mitigation involves use of a mitigation bank or in -lieu fee program, payment shall be made before commencing construction. • • Nationwide 12 Perr t Summary 3. The permittee shall record the NWP verification with the Registrar of Deeds or other appropriate official charged with the responsibility for maintaining records of title to or interest in real property against areas (1) designated to be preserved as part of mitigation for authorized impacts, including any associated covenants or restrictions, or (2) where structures such as boat ramps or docks, marinas, piers, and permanently moored vessels will be constructed in or adjacent to navigable waters (Section 10 and Section 404). The recordation shall also include a map showing the surveyed location of the authorized structure and any associated areas preserved to minimize or compensate for project impacts. 4. The permittee shall place wetlands, other aquatic areas, and any vegetative buffers preserved as part of mitigation for impacts into a separate "preserve" parcel prior to discharging dredged or fill material into waters of the United States, except where specifically determined to be impracticable by the Sacramento District. Permanent legal protection shall be established for all preserve parcels, following Sacramento District approval of the legal instrument. 5. The permittee shall allow Corps representatives to inspect. the authorized activity and any mitigation areas at any time deemed necessary to determine compliance with the terms and conditions of the NWP verification. The permittee will be notified in advance of an inspection. 6. For NWPs 29, 39, 40, 42, 43, 44, and 46, requests to waive the 300 linear foot limitation for intermittent or ephemeral waters of the U.S. shall include an evaluation of functions and services provided by the waterbody taking into account the watershed, measures to be implemented to avoid and minimize impacts, other measures to avoid and minimize that were found to be impracticable, and a mitigation plan for offsetting impacts. 7. Road crossings shall be designed to ensure fish passage, especially for anadromous fisheries. Permittees shall employ bridge designs that span the stream or river, utilize pier or pile supported structures, or involve large bottomless culverts with a natural streambed, where the substrate and streamflow conditions approximate existing channel conditions. Approach fills in waters of the United States below the ordinary high water mark are not authorized under the NWPs, except where avoidance has specifically been determined to be impracticable by the Sacramento District. 8. For NWP 12, clay blocks, bentonite, or other suitable material shall be used to seal the trench to prevent the utility line from draining waters of the United States, including wetlands. 9. For NWP 13, bank stabilization shall include the use of vegetation or other biotechnical design to the maximum extent practicable. Activities involving hard -armoring of the bank toe or slope requires submission ofa PCN per General Condition 27. 10. For NWP 23, the PCN shall include a copy of the signed Categorical Exclusion document and final agency determinations regarding compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, Essential Fish Habitat under the Magnussen-Stevens Act, and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Page 8 11. For NWP 44, the discharge shall not cause the Toss of more than 300 linear feet of streambed. For intermittent and ephemeral streams, the 300 linear foot limit may be waived in writing by the Sacramento District. This NWP does not authorize discharges in waters of the United States supporting anadromous fisheries. 12. For NWPs 29 and 39, channelization or relocation of intermittent or perennial drainage, is not authorized, except when, as determined by the Sacramento District, the relocation would result in a net increase in functions of the aquatic ecosystem within the watershed. 13. For NWP 33, temporary fills for construction access in waters of the United States supporting fisheries shall be accomplished with clean, washed spawning quality gravels where practicable as determined by the Sacramento District, in consultation with appropriate federal and state wildlife agencies. 14. For NWP 46, the discharge shall not cause the loss of greater than 0.5 acres of waters of the United States or the loss of more than 300 linear feet of ditch, unless this 300 foot linear foot limit is waived in writing by the Sacramento District. 15. For NWPs 29, 39, 40, 42, and 43, upland vegetated buffers shall be established and maintained in perpetuity, to the maximum extent practicable, next to all preserved open waters, streams and wetlands including created, restored, enhanced or preserved waters of the U.S., consistent with General Condition 20. Except in unusual circumstances, vegetated buffers shall be at least 50 feet in width. 16. All NWPs except 3, 6, 20, 27, 32, 38, and 47, are revoked for activities in histosols and fens and in wetlands contiguous with fens. Fens are defined as supe wetlands with a histic epipedon that are hydrologically supported by groundwater. Fens are normally saturated throughout the growing season, although they may not be during drought conditions. For NWPs 3, 6, 20, 27, 32, and 38, prospective permittees shall submit a PCN to the Sacramento District in accordance with General Condition 27. 17. For all N WPs, when activities are proposed within 100 feet of the point of groundwater discharge of a natural spring, prospective permittees shall submit a PCN to the Sacramento District in accordance with General Condition 27. A spring source is defined as any location where ground water emanates from a point in the ground. For purposes of this condition, springs do not include seeps or other discharges which lack a defined channel. 11. California Only 1. In the Lake Tahoe Basin, all NWPs are revoked. Activities in this area shall be authorized under Regional General Permit 16 or through an individual permit. 2. In the Primary and Secondary Zones of the Legal Delta, NWPs 29 and 39 are revoked. New development activities in the Legal Delta will be reviewed through the Corps' standard permit process. 111. Nevada Only 1. In the Lake Tahoe Basin, all NWPs are revoked. Activities in this area shall be authorized under Regional General Permit 16 or through an individual permit. Nationwide 12 Permit Summary IV. Utah Only 1. For all NWPs, except NWP 47, prospective permittees shall submit a PCN in accordance with General Condition 27 for any activity, in waters of the United States, below 4217 feet mean sea level (ms1) adjacent to the Great Salt Lake and below 4500 feet msl adjacent to Utah Lake. 2. A PCN is required for all bank stabilization activities in a perennial stream that would affect more than 100 linear feet of stream 3. For NWP 27, facilities for controlling stormwater runoff, construction of water parks such as kayak courses, and use of grout or concrete to construct in -stream structures are not authorized. A PCN is required for all projects exceeding 1500 linear feet as measured on the stream thalweg, using in stream structures exceeding 50 cubic yards per structure and/or incorporating grade control structures exceeding 1 foot vertical drop. For any stream restoration project, the post project stream sinuosity shall be appropriate to the geomorphology of the surrounding area and shall be equal to, or greater than, pre project sinuosity. Sinuosity is defined as the ratio of stream length to project reach length. Structures shall allow the passage of aquatic organisms, recreational water craft or other navigational activities unless specifically waived in writing by the District Engineer. V. Colorado Only 1. Final Regional Conditions Applicable to Specific Nationwide Permits within Colorado. a. Nationwide Permit Nos. 12 and 14, Utility Line Activities and Linear Transportation Projects. In the Colorado River Basin, utility line and road activities crossing perennial water or special aquatic sites require notification to the District Engineer in accordance with General Condition 27 (Pre -Construction Notification). b. Nationwide Permit No. 13 Bank Stabilization. In Colorado, bank stabilization activities necessary for erosion prevention in streams that average less than 20 feet in width (measured between the ordinary high water marks) are limited to the placement of no more than 1/4 cubic yard of suitable fill* material per running foot below the plane of the ordinary high water mark. Activities greater than 1/4 cubic yard may be authorized if the permittee notifies the District. Engineer in accordance with General Condition 27 (Pre -Construction Notification) and the Corps determines the adverse environmental effects are minimal. [* See (g) for definition of Suitable Fill] c. Nationwide Permit No. 27 Aquatic Habitat Restoration, Establishment, and Enhancement Activities. (1) For activities that include a fishery enhancement component, the Corps will send the Pre -Construction Notification to the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) for review. In accordance with General Condition 27 (Pre -Construction Notification), CDOW will have 10 days from the receipt of Corps notification to indicate that they will be commenting on the proposed project. CDOW will then have an additional 15 days after the initial 1 0 -day period to Page 9 provide those comments. If CDOW raises concerns, the applicant may either modify their plan, in coordination with CDOW, or apply for a standard individual permit, (2) For activities involving the length of a stream, the post -project stream sinuosity will not be significantly reduced, unless it is demonstrated that the reduction in sinuosity is consistent with the natural morphological evolution of the stream (sinuosity is the ratio of stream length to project reach length). (3) Structures will allow the upstream and downstream passage of aquatic organisms, including fish native to the reach, as well as recreational water craft or other navigational activities, unless specifically waived in writing by the District Engineer. The use of grout and/or concrete in building structures is not authorized by this nationwide permit. (4) The construction of water parks (Le., kayak courses) and flood control projects are not authorized by this nationwide permit. d. Nationwide Permits Nos. 29 and 39; Residential Developments and Commercial and Institutional Developments. A copy of the existing FEMA/locally- approved floodplain map must be submitted with the Pre - Construction Notification. When reviewing proposed developments, the Corps will utilize the most accurate and reliable FEMA/Iocally-approved pre -project floodplain mapping, not post -project floodplain mapping based an a CLOMR or LOMR. However, the Corps will accept revisions to existing floodplain mapping if the revisions resolve inaccuracies in the original floodplain mapping and lithe revisions accurately reflect pre -project conditions. 2. Final Regional Conditions Applicable to All Nationwide Per nits within Colorado e. Removal of Temporary Fills. General Condition 13 (Removal of Temporary Fills) is amended by adding the following: When temporary fills are placed in wetlands in Colorado, a horizontal marker (i.e. fabric, certified weed - free straw, etc.) must be used to delineate the existing ground elevation of wetlands that will be temporarily filled during construction. f. Spawning Areas. General Condition 3 (Spawning Areas) is amended by adding the following: In Colorado, all Designated Critical Resource Waters (see enclosure 1) are considered important spawning areas. Therefore, In accordance with General Condition 19 (Designated Critical Resource Waters), the discharge of dredged or fill material in not authorized by the following nationwide permits in these waters: NWPs 7, 12, 14, 16, 17, 21, 29, 31, 35, 39, 40, 42, 43, 44, 49, and 50. In addition, in accordance with General Condition 27 (Pre -Construction Notification), notification to the District Engineer is required for use of the following nationwide permits in these waters: NWPs 3, 8, 10, 13, 1 5, 18, 19, 22, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 33, 34, 36, 37 and 38". Nationwide 12 Permit Summary g. Suitable Fill. In Colorado, use of broken concrete as fill material requires notification to the District Engineer in accordance with General Condition 27 ( Pre - Construction Notification). Permittees must demonstrate that soft engineering methods utilizing native or non - manmade materials are not practicable (with respect to cost, existing technology, and logistics). before broken. concrete is allowed as suitable fill. Use of broken concrete with exposed rebar is prohibited in perennial waters and special aquatic sites. h. Invasive Aquatic Species. General Condition 11 is amended by adding the following condition for work in perennial or intermittent waters of the United States: If heavy equipment is used for the subject project that was previously working in another stream, river. lake, pond, or wetland within 10 days of initiating work, one the following procedures is necessary to prevent the spread of New Zealand Mud Snails and other aquatic hitchhikers: (1) Remove all mud and debris from equipment (tracks, turrets, buckets, drags, teeth, etc.) and keep the equipment dry for 10 days. OR (2) Remove all mud and debris from Equipment (tracks, turrets, buckets, drags, teeth. etc.) and spray/soak equipment with either a l :1 solution of Formula 409 Household Cleaner and water. or a solution of Sparquat 256 (5 ounces Sparquat per gallon of water). Treated equipment must be kept moist for at least 10 minutes. OR (3) Remove all mud and debris from equipment (tracks, turrets. buckets, drags, teeth, etc.) and spray/soak equipment with water greater than 120 degrees F for at least 10 minutes. 3. Final Regional Conditions for Revocation/Special Notification Specific to Certain Geographic Areas i. Fens: All Nationwide permits, except permit Nos.. 3, 6, 20, 27, 32, 38 and 47, are revoked in fens and wetlands adjacent to fens. Use of nationwide permit Nos. 3, 20, 27 and 38, requires notification to the District Engineer, in accordance with General Condition 27 (Pre-Constnrction Notification), and the permittee may not begin the activity until the Corps determines the adverse environmental effects are minimal. The following defines a fen: Fen soils (histosols) are normally saturated throughout the growing season, although they may not be during drought conditions. The primary source of hydrology for fens is groundwater. Histosols are defined in accordance with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service publications on Keys to Soil Taxonomy and Field Indicators of Hydric Soils in the United States (http.,,sr. ils.usJa_:;0,, techiiFt.Ai cLi iii .ation iaxono n). j. Springs: Within the state of Colorado, all NWPs, except permit 47 (original 'C), require preconstruction notification pursuant to General Condition 27 for discharges of dredged or fill material within 100 feet of the point of groundwater discharge of natural springs. A Page 10 spring source is defined as any location where groundwater emanates from a point in the ground. For purposes of this regional condition, springs do not include seeps or other discharges which do not have a defined channel. 4. Additional Information The following provides additional information regarding minimization of impacts and compliance with existing general Conditions: a. Permittees are reminded of the existing General Condition No. 6 which prohibits the use of unsuitable material. Organic debris, building waste, asphalt. car bodies, and trash are not suitable material. Also, General Condition 12 requires appropriate erosion and sediment controls (Le. all fills must be permanently stabilized to prevent erosion and siltation into waters and wetlands at the earliest practicable date). Streambed material or other small aggregate material placed along a bank as stabilization will not meet General Condition 12. Also, use of erosion control mates that contain plastic netting may not meet General Condition 12 if deemed harmful to wildlife. b. Designated Critical Resource Waters in Colorado. In Colorado, a list of designated Critical Resource Waters has been published in accordance with General Condition 19 (Designated Critical Resource Waters). This list will be published on the Albuquerque District Regulatory home page (http:rspa.usace.amm.mil riu ) c. Federally -Listed Threatened and Endangered Species. General condition 17 requires that nod -federal perminees notify the District Engineer if any listed species or designated critical habitat might be affected or is in the vicinity of the project. Information on such species, to include occurrence by county in Colorado, may be found at the following U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website: hup: �"►ttti.f .t!uv muuntain"t2Dptairic'endspp'name c tistnty varch.htm .C. Further Information 1. District Engineers have authority to determine if an activity complies with the terms and conditions of an NWP. 2. NWPs do not obviate the need to obtain other federal, state, or local permits, approvals, or authorizations required by law. 3. NWPs do not grant any property rights or exclusive privileges. 4. NWPs do not authorize any injury to the property or rights of others. 5. NWPs do not authorize interference with any existing or proposed Federal project. D. Definitions Best management practices (BMPs): Policies, practices, procedures, or structures implemented to mitigate the adverse environmental effects on surface water quality resulting from development. BMPs are categorized as structural or non- structural. Natiorn ide 12 Permit Summary Compensatory mitigation: The restoration, establishment (creation), enhancement, or preservation of aquatic resources for the purpose of compensating for unavoidable adverse impacts which remain after all appropriate and practicable avoidance and minimization has been achieved. Currently serviceable: Useable as is or with some maintenance, but not so degraded as to essentially require reconstruction. Discharge: The term "discharge" means any discharge of dredged or f i l I material. Enhancement; The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of an aquatic resource to heighten, intensify, or improve a specific aquatic resource function(s). Enhancement results in the gain of selected aquatic resource function(s), but may also lead to a decline in other aquatic resource function(s). Enhancement does not result in a gain in aquatic resource area. Ephemeral stream: An ephemeral stream has flowing water only during, and for a short duration after, precipitation events in a typical year. Ephemeral stream beds are located above the water table year-round. Groundwater is not a source of water for the stream. Runoff from rainfall is the primary source of water for stream flow. Establishment (creation): The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics present to develop an aquatic resource that did not previously exist at an upland site. Establishment results in a gain in aquatic resource area. Historic Property: Any prehistoric or historic district, site (including archaeological site), building, structure, or other object included in, or eligible for inclusion in, the National Register of Historic Places maintained by the Secretary of the Interior. This term includes artifacts, records, and remains that are related to and located within such properties. The term includes properties of traditional religious and cultural importance to an Indian tribe or Native Hawaiian organization and that meet the National Register criteria (36 CFR part 60). Independent utility: A test to determine what constitutes a single and complete project in the Corps regulatory program. A project is considered to have independent utility if it would be constructed absent the construction of other projects in the project area. Portions ofa multi -phase project that depend upon other phases of the project do not have independent utility. Phases ofa project that would be constructed even if the other phases were not built can be considered as separate single and complete projects with independent utility. Intermittent stream: An intermittent stream has flowing water during certain times of the year, when groundwater provides water for stream flow. During dry periods, intermittent streams may not have flowing water. Runoff from rainfall is a supplemental source of water for stream flow. Loss of waters of the United States: Waters of the United States that are permanently adversely affected by falling, flooding, excavation, or drainage because of the regulated activity. Permanent adverse effects include permanent discharges of dredged or fill material that change an aquatic area to dry land, increase the bottom elevation ofa waterbody, or change the use ofa waterbody. The acreage of loss of waters of the United States is a threshold measurement of the impact to Page 11 jurisdictional waters for determining whether a project may qualify for an NWP; it is not a net threshold that is calculated after considering compensatory mitigation that may be used to offset losses of aquatic functions and services. The loss of stream bed includes the linear feet of stream bed that is filled or excavated. Waters of the United States temporarily filled, flooded, excavated, or drained, but restored to pre -construction contours and elevations after construction, are not included in the measurement of loss of waters of the United States. Impacts resulting from activities eligible for exemptions under Section 404(f) of the Clean Water Act are not considered when calculating the loss of waters of the United States. Non -tidal wetland: A non -tidal wetland is a wetland that is not subject to the ebb and flow of tidal waters. The definition ofa wetland can be found at 33 CFR 328.3(b). Non -tidal wetlands contiguous to tidal waters are located landward of the high tide line (i.e., spring high tide line). Open water: For purposes of the NWPs, an open water is any area that in a year with normal patterns of precipitation has water flowing or standing above ground to the extent that an ordinary high water mark can be determined. Aquatic vegetation within the area of standing or flowing water is either non -emergent, sparse, or absent. Vegetated shallows are considered to be open waters. Examples of "open waters" include rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. Ordinary high Water Mark: An ordinary high water mark is a line on the shore established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteristics, or by other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding areas (see 33 CFR 328.3(e)). Perennial stream: A perennial stream has flowing water year- round during a typical year. The water table is located above the stream bed for most of the year. Groundwater is the primary source of water for stream flow. Runoff from rainfall is a supplemental source of water for stream flow. Practicable: Available and capable of being done after taking into consideration cost, existing technology, and logistics in Tight of overall project purposes. Pre -construction notification; A request submitted by the project proponent to the Corps for confirmation that a particular activity is authorized by nationwide permit. The request may be a permit application, letter, or similar document that includes information about the proposed work and its anticipated environmental effects. Pre -construction notification may be required by the terms and conditions ofa nationwide permit, or by regional conditions. A pre -construction notification may be voluntarily submitted in cases where pre -construction notification is not required and the project proponent wants confirmation that the activity is authorized by nationwide permit. Preservation: The removal of a threat to, or preventing the decline of, aquatic resources by an action in or near those aquatic resources. This term includes activities commonly associated with the protection and maintenance of aquatic resources through the implementation of appropriate legal and physical mechanisms. Preservation does not result in a gain of aquatic resource area or functions. Re-establishment: The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of a site with the goal of returning Nationwide i 2 Permit Summary natural/historic functions to a former aquatic resource. Re- establishment results in rebuilding a former aquatic resource and results in a gain in aquatic resource area. Rehabilitation: The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of a site with the goal of repairing naturalihistoric functions to a degraded aquatic resource. Rehabilitation results in a gain in aquatic resource function, but does not result in a gain in aquatic resource area Restoration: The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of a site with the goal of returning natural/historic functions to a former or degraded aquatic resource. For the purpose of tracking net gains in aquatic resource area, restoration is divided into two categories: re- establishment and rehabilitation. Riffle and pool complex: Riffle and pool complexes are special aquatic sites under the 404(b)(1) Guidelines. Riffle and pool. complexes sometimes characterize steep gradient sections of streams. Such stream sections are recognizable by their hydraulic characteristics. The rapid movement of water over a course substrate in riffles results in a rough flow, a turbulent surface, and high dissolved oxygen levels in the water. Pools are deeper areas associated with riffles. A slower stream velocity, a streaming flow, a smooth surface, and a finer substrate characterize pools. Riparian areas: Riparian areas are lands adjacent to streams, lakes, and estuarine -marine shorelines. Riparian areas are transitional between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, through which surface and subsurface hydrology connects waterbodies with their adjacent uplands. Riparian areas provide a variety of ecological functions and services and help improve or maintain local water quality. (See general condition 20.) Shellfish seeding: The placement of shellfish seed and/or suitable substrate to increase shellfish production. Shellfish seed consists of immature individual shellfish or individual shellfish attached to shells or shell fragments (i.e., spat an shell). Suitable substrate may consist of shellfish shells, shell fragments, or other appropriate materials placed into waters for shellfish habitat. Single and complete project: The term "single and complete project" is defined at 33 CFR 330.2(i) as the total project proposed or accomplished by one owner/developer or partnership or other association of ownersfdevelopers. A single and complete project must have independent utility (see definition). For linear projects, a "single and complete project" is all crossings of a single water of the United States (i.e., a single waterbody) at a specific location. For linear projects crossing a single waterbody several times at separate and distant locations, each crossing is considered a single and complete project. However, individual channels in a braided stream or river, or individual arrns of a large, irregularly shaped wetland or lake, etc., are not separate waterbodies, and crossings of such features cannot be considered separately. Stormwater management: Stormwater management is the mechanism for controlling stormwater runoff for the purposes of reducing downstream erosion, water quality degradation, and flooding and mitigating the adverse effects of changes in land use on the aquatic environment. Stormwater management facilities: Stormwater management facilities are those facilities, including but not limited to, Page 12 stormwater retention and detention ponds and best management practices, which retain water for a period of time to control runoff and/or improve the quality (i.e., by reducing the concentration of nutrients, sediments, hazardous substances and. other pollutants) of stormwater runoff. Stream bed: The substrate of the stream channel between the ordinary high water marks. The substrate may be bedrock or inorganic particles that range in size from clay to boulders. Wetlands contiguous to the stream bed, but outside of the ordinary high water marks, are not considered part of the stream bed. Stream channelization: The manipulation ofa stream's course, condition, capacity, or location that causes more than minimal interruption of normal stream processes. A channelized stream remains a water of the United States. Structure: An object that is arranged in a definite pattern of organization. Examples of structures include, without limitation, any pier, boat dock, boat ramp, wharf, dolphin, weir, boom, breakwater, bulkhead, revetment, riprap, jetty, artificial island, artificial reef. permanent mooring structure, power transmission line, permanently moored floating vessel, piling, aid to navigation, or any other manmade obstacle or obstruction. Tidal wetland: A tidal wetland is a wetland (i.e., water of the United States) that is inundated by tidal waters. The definitions ofa wetland and tidal waters can be found at 33 CFR 328.3(b) and 33 CFR 328.3(0, respectively. Tidal waters rise and fall in a predictable and measurable rhythm or cycle due to the gravitational pulls of the moon and sun. Tidal waters end where the rise and fall of the water surface can no longer be practically measured in a predictable rhythm due to masking by other waters, wind, or other effects. Tidal wetlands are located. channelward of the high tide line, which is defined at 33 CFR 328.3(d). Vegetated shallows: Vegetated shallows are special aquatic sites under the 404(b)(1) Guidelines. They are areas that are permanently inundated and under normal circumstances have rooted aquatic vegetation, such as seagrasses in marine and estuarine systems and a variety of vascular rooted plants in freshwater systems. Waterbody: For purposes of the NWPs, a waterbody is a jurisdictional water of the United States that, during a year with normal patterns of precipitation, has water flowing or standing above ground to the extent that an ordinary high water mark (OHWM) or other indicators of jurisdiction can be determined,. as well as any wetland area (see 33 CFR 328.3(b)). If a jurisdictional wetland is adjacent—meaning bordering, contiguous, or neighboring—to a jurisdictional waterbody displaying an OHWM or other indicators of jurisdiction, that waterbody and its adjacent wetlands are considered together as a single aquatic unit (see 33 CFR 328.4(c)(2)). Examples of "waterbodies" include streams, rivers, lakes, ponds, and wetlands. COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UTILITY PERMIT ifERMITTEEDEPARTMENT arns USE ONLY Datc issued 6123108 WILLIAMS PRODUCTION R.M.T. Permit # 13,993 Address S.H.# 070A N. FR M.P. 69.2-70.7mm P.D. BOX 370 Region 03 PARACHUTE, CO 81635 Section 02 Telephone: (970)285-9057 Representative: DANIEL HOOVER Patrol 2JOHN4 NOTICE TO PERMITTEE: Pursuant to 94.5-103 C.R.S. you shall nal make or begin cieavntice without first notifying the Utility Ngllflcadon Center of Colorado (UNCCJ and if necessary, then notifying the tier two members having underground facilities in the arca of such esravation. Notification shall also be given 2 days In advance of work to the COOT regional permitting office, or as otherwise directed by fhb Permit's Special Provisions locate CDOT underground facilities. Notice of the commencement, extent and duration of the excavation work shall be given at least two business days prior thereto, not including the day of actual notice_ The LNCC may he called of I. 0o.922.19a71Cn0T t9?0)hail-1,271 ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION (Furnished by Perfnittee) PURPOSE XX Installation Q Adjustment ❑ Removal 0 Maintenance of existing Facility FACILITY (Type. size, class of transmittant, design pressure or etc. )INSTALL NEW 12 iNCti NATURAL GAS GATHERING LINE (400iisi W1,375 WALL) NATURE OF INSTALLATION XX Longitudinal (Parallel) 0 Transverse (Crossing) XX Buried ❑ Aerial/Ground-mounted []Attach. To Hwy. Str, No. LOCATION State Hwy. No. 070A N.' Fronton Rd. County GARFIELD City[Fown WEST OF PARACHUTE Milepoint(s) 69.2-70.7rnrn Intersecting Feature(s); ADDITIONAL REMARKS CURRENT INSURANCE CERTIFICATE ON FILE. 111.115('. REV ICIV & CO\1I1 WITH TIIE ATTACHED "I.ATE FALL. WINTER & SPRING SPIT{°1:4I, PROVISIONS H.)R UTILITY [NISTALLATJO(VS For underground facility locution information, contact: UN_CC & COOT Telephone 180)922-1987 & (9701683-6271 SPECIAL PROVISIONS (completed by the Department) The Special Provisions ure terms and conditions of this permit. Any work shall only be in accordance with the approved plans and special provisions as set forth in this permit and its attachments. The COOT inspector is ROD GRAHAM Telephone (970) 683-6318 (97f1) 683-6340 11 ork is to be completed on or before: 10115108. or within days, (as applicable) ork time restrictions: DAYLIGHT HOURS ONLY NO WEEKENDS Oft HOLIDAYS. csignated minimum cover is See SPCC 1AI. PROVISIONS #22Designated overhead clearance is NIA (ALSO SEE ATTACHED STANDARD PROVISIONS. AND ADDITIONAL SPECIAL PROVISIONS), (TRAFFIC CONTROL MUST CONFORM TO THE MtJTCD) Other: FIELD INSPFC'TOR SIIALL BE NOTIFIED 48 1IOI'RS PRIOR Til HEOINN1`.0 . 11 ORK OR PER NtiT IS VOID. Permittee is prohibited from commencing any work within highway ROW prior to issuance of a full} endorsed and validated permit. Permit. plan exhibit, insurance certilicate(s), and traffic control plan muss be available on site during ss ark. High visibility vests are required at all times during working hours. Your request to use and/or occupy state highway system rights of way as described abuse is granted subject to the terms and conditions of this permit. including the Standurd and Special Provisions us shown on the permit and all attachments hereto. To the extent authorized by law. Permittee hereby assumes, releases and agrees to indemnify, defend, protect, and save ncc State of Colorado harmless from and against any loss and/or damages to the property or the State of Colurado. third parties or the Permittec's facilities, and all lass and/or damage on account of injury to or death of any person whomsoever, arising at nay time, caused by or growing out oldie occupation of Colorado State highway rights of way by Permitter's fstilities or any part thereof, including but not limited to installation, adjustment, relocation, maintenance or operation, or removal of existing facilities, unless such loss andlor damage arises from the sole negligence or willful conduct atilt State of Colorado or its employees or agents. Failure by the Permittee to comply with any° of the included terms or conditions may subject Iiia permit to suspension or cancellation, al the discretion of the Department of Transportation. TMS PERMIT 1S NOT VALID UNTIL FULLY ENDORSED BY ALL PARTIES, WITH DATE OF ISSUE AFFLXED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPARTMENT. A FULLY EXECUTED COPY OF THIS PERMIT MUST BE ON FILE AT THE TRANSPORTATION REGION OFFICE, In accepting this permit the undersigned, representing the Permittee, verifies that he or she has the authority to sign for and hind the Permittee, and that he or she has read, understands and accepts all the included conditions. Attested Date 1 Sign 1 Title Title )at /tea III COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION t BY E -m Chief Engineer 1 WELDON ALL IKE VER TIS ..tribution: District File (Original) 1 Permittee/Applicant Inspector Mtce Patrol Supvr. Mtce Landscaping Supvr Previous versions are obsolete and should not be used. Date 6113108 CDOT Forni # 0333 02/06 • • STATE OF COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Region 3 Traffic and Safety Utility Permit Section 222 South 64' Street, Room 100 Grand Junction, Colorado 81501 (970) 683-6288 FAX: (970) 683-6290 qtr OF TRINSPORIA10.1 13,993 070A N. FR 69.2-70.7mm 2JOHN4 SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR UTILITY INSTALLATIONS 'rilE SPECIAL PROVSIONS ARI TERMS AND CONDTIONS OE THIS PERMIT Permit No Highway No Mile Marker Patrol No CDOT IS NOT A UNCC MEMBER AND UNCC WILL NOT LOCATE CDOT FACILITIES. PERMITTED WORK REQUIRE -;S PERMITTEE OR CONTRACTORS TO CONTACT CDOT (970) 248-7230, FOR LOCATES IF ANY CDOT SIGNALS, FLASHING BEACONS. ELECTICAL SIGNS, LUMINARIES, AND WEATHER STATIONS ARE LOCATED WITHIN 3000 FEET OF CONSTRUCTION AREA TRAFFIC CONTROL 1. The complete permit for this work, including approved Colorado Department of Transportation (to be know as CDOT or the Department)permit, construction and traffic control plans, will be kept at the work site at all times. The perms lee is responsible for providing traffic control plains that conjarms to and inerts the requirements of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (!UTC Dl and the Colorado supplements. 2. To meet conditions encountered in the field. minor changes or additions may be ordered and approved by the CDOT Field Inspector. 3. All CDO r employees shall be considered as inspectors when the safety of the traveling public, safety of contractors. employees, or integrity of the property of CDOT is at risk. 4. All work shall cease when weather creates a safety hazard for the traveling public and/or barrow ditch is wet enough to leave lire or cleat marks. Any advance warning signs not in use for a particular activity shall be removed, placed outside of the clear zone, or laid flat at least 4' from the edge of the shoulder and not an landscaped areas or sidewalks. This applies to both signs and structures, 6. All flagging personnel must be certified and have their certification cards available for inspection at any time. is7 Lane closures must be as short as possible and as per the MUTCD. Flaggers are required for each lane closure. Advance warning signs must be placed as per MUTCD. Ali temporary traffic control signs shall be removed, covered or laid on the ground during non -working hours. 8. Two- way traffic shall be maintained at all times in the construction area in accordance with the M.U.T.C.D. and Colorado Supplements. CONSTRUCTION 9. The permittee must notify the CDOT inspector no less than two (2) days prior to any work on highway right-of-way. CDOT Inspector's name or alternate contact and phone number is on the permit. 10. No work shall proceed beyond the expiration dale specified on the permit without written approval of the Department. 1 1. No work shall be permitted at night or an Saturday, Sunday, or holidays without prior authorization or unless otherwise specified in this permit. CDO-I- observed holidays remaining: Tuesday, January 1. 2008 (New Year's Day observed), Monday, January 21, 2008 (Martin Luther King Day), Monday, Febniary 18, 2008 (Presidents' Day), Monday, May 26, 2008 (Memorial Day),Friday, July 4, 2008 (Independence Day), Monday, September 1, 2008 (Labor Day), Monday, October I I, 2008 (Columbus Day), Tuesday, November 1 I, 2008 (Veterans Day), Thursday, November 27, 2008 (Thanksgiving Day), Thursday. December 25, 2008 (Christmas). 12. On three (3) day weekend holidays. the project shall be shut down by 12:00 Noon on Friday, and not resume prior to the following Tuesday morning. CDOT Utility Specs -Revised 1/04 Pagel 13 Work hours for this pemtit are from one hour after sunrise to one hour before sunset, unless otherwise stated in the permit_ 14. Permittee is responsible fur the safety of the traveling public at all times when work is being done. 15. Forty-eight (48) hour notification must be given for the underground location of CDOT owned facilities. Phone (970)683-6271. 16. Any damage to highway facilities, such as traff=ic lights, streetlights, concrete walkways, bike paths, asphalt, signing, etc, shall be repaired and reported immediately and notification must be given to the CDOT inspector or contact CSP Dispatch -- 970-824-6501 Craig & 970-249-4392 Montrose. 17. Should any excavation encounter plant or animal fossils, the remains of historic or prehistoric structures, historic or prehistoric artifacts (bottle dumps. charcoal from subsurface hearths, pottery, potsherds, stone tools, arrowheads, etc.), the operation shall cease at once and the permittee shall contact the CDOT Environmental Office (970) 248-7?23 for guidance. 18. Permittee assumes all responsibility for any and all land survey monuments within the permitted area ofthe right-of-way. if disturbed or destroyed, the permittee bears fuli cost for replacement. Constriction may need to be re-routed to avoid disturbing 1•Iiglt Accuracy Reference Network Survey Land Markers Direct any questions within Live (5) days prior to construction to: Region Survey Coordinator, 222 South 6th St., Room 317, Grand Junction, CO 81501 at 970-248-7232. 19. if petroleum or other potentially hazardous material is encountered during excavation, work shall cease immediately. The proper disposal of any soils or other material determined to be hazardous and/or contaminated by fugitive petroleum uncovered or excavated during the performance of utility construction shall be the sole responsibility of the Utility and shall be accomplished in accordance with all applicable Federal, State and Local laws and regulations. Such clean up and disposal shall be at no cost to COO'/'. 20. All construction vehicles, delivery vehicles and traffic control vehicles shall be equipped with flashing amber/yellow beacons, which are visible from all directions. Only construction vehicles involved in the construction are to be at the work site_ it is important to limit the number of extraneous vehicles at each work site. Staging areas shall be pre -approved. 2l Staging and material storage areas, within the right of must be pre -approved and beyond the clear zone. Employee parking within the right of way shall be restricted and not shall not be allowed, except in pre -approved contractor staging areas and beyond the clear zone. The only vehicles allowed within the highway clear zone are the construction vehicles necessary for the operation, such as the Inspector, Superintendent, Mechanic and Supervisor. Parking along the shoulder of the highway is not allowed. Contractor utilizing private property for material storage and staging areas shall Furnish CDOT with documentation that permission has been obtained from the property owner. 22. Minimum cover depth for this installation will be .t'i inches ur inches if within 15 feet of roadway. 23. All utilities located at inlets or outlets of all major or minor structures and roadway drainage and irrigation ditches shall be encased or placed at a cover depth of forty-eight (48) inches or bit inches if within 15 feet of roadway below the finished ditch grade. 24. Parallel installations should be located as near as practicable to the right-of-way line_ 25. Crossings shall be as near perpendicular to the highway as feasible. 26, All above ground structures, (poles, pedestals, anchors, guys, etc.) will be placed outside of, or within five (5) feet of the right of -way line. 27. Valve and manhole covers will be set °/ inch below finished grade. 28. Saw or wheel cut (asphalt) (concrete) to assure a straight edge for patching. 29. All backfill is subject to AASHTO standard compaction T-99 or T-180 as appropriate. Compaction and materials testing may he required at the discretion of the Department of Transportation. 30. The replacement asphalt shall he a minimum of -1 inches of hot bituminous pavement placed in 2 compacted tiffs. Tack oil shall be used prior to replacement being installed. :>< lots cut shall he performer!. tsee_,Attnched Draining). Final patch surface shall be smooth and conform to the surrounding pavement surface v. Rh no bump, dip or other noticeable difference in the riding quality.. 31 Asphalt seams shall not terminate inion the wheel paths. 32. When open cuts of asphalt or concrete roadways are allowed and when needed or directed, the excavation shall be covered with steel plates during non -working hours to facilitate traffic. Use cold mix to ramp plates to hold them in place and allow for smooth transition of traffic over plates. 33. Open cut in the paved roadway will be backfilled with Plowable backfill. (full trench depth), that meets or CDOf Utility Specs -Revised 1104 Page2 11OOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR STATION 12" PIPELINE PROJECT OVERVIEW Williams Production RMT (Williams) proposes to construct and operate the Hoover Express Compressor Station (formerly known as the Smith Gulch Compressor Station) and a 12 inch natural gas pipeline (Project). The compressor station and connecting pipeline will reside approximately 5.5 miles west of Parachute, CO on property owned by Williams. The Project is necessary to gather natural gas from area wells operated by Williams, which currently are connected to a low pressure pipeline gathering system located approximately 1.4 miles east of the proposed facility site. The compressor station is needed to compress the gas to a sufficient pressure in order to be discharged into an existing 20 inch high pressure pipeline. The existing 20 inch high pressure pipeline is located within CDOT right-of-way and delivers Williams gas from their Parachute Plant Facility, located north of Parachute, to a market interconnect west of the Town of DeBeque. Construction of the compressor station and connecting pipeline at the proposed location will allow the local area gas to be gathered, compressed and delivered into existing infrastructures; thereby eliminating the need to construct a much longer pipeline to the facility north of Parachute. The option of constructing the longer pipeline was deemed unfeasible due to the terrain and greater surface and environmental impacts. Further descriptions of the Project are included below: PIPELINE The project consists of approximately 1.4 miles of 12 inch diameter buried, steel, natural gas pipeline, and related valve facilities. The pipeline begins within Section 27 and crosses Sections 28, 33 and 32 of Township 7 South, Range 96 West, 6th PM, in Garfield County, The majority of the pipeline will reside on Williams Property with a smaller portion to be constructed within CDOT, US Highway 6&24 right-of-way. The right -of way will be immediately adjacent to existing roadways as much as possible. Proposed right-of-way width will be 75 feet during construction and will revert back to a 50 foot permanent right-of-way following construction. The pipeline will be buried at a depth so as to insure a minimum of 4 feet of cover above the pipe on private land and a minimum of 5 feet of cover within CDOT right-of-way. The pipe welds will be x-rayed and pressure tested to insure the integrity of construction procedures. Construction will occur with one construction spread and is scheduled to start upon the receipt of required permits. No temporary staging areas will be required for pipeline construction. All • vehicles and equipment will be parked on the right-of-way. The pipeline will be operated on a year-round basis. Hoover Express Compressor Station In conjunction, with the proposed pipeline project, a compressor station will be required in order to compress and dehydrate the low pressure incoming gas. The proposed compressor station will be constructed in Section 32, T 7S, R 96W, 6`" P.M. and will reside on a planned 4.9 acre site on property now owned by Williams Production RMT. The proposed compressor station will gather natural gas from an existing pipeline The proposed compressor station will consist of three (2) Catapillar 3512 gas fired compressors, to be installed outdoors, during the initial operations phase of the station. Three additional compressors may be added in the future as gas production increases in the area. Once the total number of compressors required is determined, a permanent building will be constructed. The compressors will have "hospital grade" muffler systems installed in order to meet noise level standards. Also included as part of the compressor station, associated equipment will be installed to include a slug receiver for the purpose of collecting liquids which may be received from the low pressure gathering pipelines as a result of periodic pigging operations. A Glycol Re -boiler will be installed in order to dehydrate the compressed natural gas to a condition acceptable to enter the Trans Colorado Pipeline west of DeBeque. Liquids collected from the operations of the facility and as a result of the pigging operations will be stored in tanks and then trucked to an approved disposal site on and as needed basis. Williams anticipates a collected liquid volume of approximately 10 to 20 barrels per day. This volume will equate to 1 to 2 trucks per month needed to haul the liquids from the site. No Garfield County Roads will be impacted by liquid hauling activities Geotechnical surveys have been obtained to insure the soil characteristics will support the proposed equipment required for the operation of the compressor station. Proper compaction of the site will be achieved prior to operations of the compressors and associated equipment. (See attached Geotechnical Report). No full time lighting will occur. Generator powered outdoor lights will be used for nighttime maintenance or emergency use only. The lights will be positioned so as not to adversely impact the surrounding area. An 8 foot chain link fence will be constructed surrounding the entire compressor site in order to protect the general public and wildlife. The fence will also provide site security for the compressor station. Access will be approved for Williams personnel and approved contract personnel only. During the construction phase of the station, all vehicles will be parked onsite. No offsite parking will be allowed. A `Noise Impact Assessment" was performed on the property, owned by Williams. The assessment was utilized in the design of the site and station equipment and buildings in order to meet or exceed noise standards set by the State of Colorado. The operations of the compressor station will be in compliance with the prescribed standards of 70dbl limit levels. • • • WILLIAMS PRODUCTION RMT HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR STATION 12" PIPELINE IMPACT STATEMENT A. SECTION 5.03 REVIEW STANDARDS: 1) utilities adequate to provide water and sanitation service based on accepted engineering standards and approved by the Board of County Commissioners shall either be in place or shall be constructed in conjunction with the proposed use. No additional utilities such as sanitation or water will be required for the operations of the facility. Portable toilets will be utilized during the construction phase of the project. Waste generated by these portable toilets will be hauled to an approved disposal site by a certified company. All appropriate records will be maintained as required. 2) Street improvements adequate to accommodate tragic volume generated by the proposed use and to provide safe, convenient access to the use shall either be in place or shall be constructed with the proposed use. Traffic to and from the compressor station site and pipeline will utilize US Highway 6&24 and existing private roads (see Traffic Study). No use of Garfield County roads is anticipated. Traffic will utilize existing access roads on private lands that have been constructed to accommodate traffic related to Oil and Gas operations. Maintenance on private access roads will be accomplished through the cooperation efforts between Williams and CDOT. 3) Design of the proposed used is organized to minimize impact on and from adjacent use of land through installation of screen fences or landscape materials on the periphery ofthe lot and by location of'intensively utilized areas, access points, lighting and signs in such a manner to protect established neighborhood character. The site location for the compressor station is located in a canyon, which provides natural screening on three sides. The proposed facility ►►ill he fenced around the entire facility site in order to provide site security and for the prevention of any potential hazards to area wildlife or the general public. All disturbed areas caused by the construction of the facility ►►ill • • • be re -vegetated once construction has been completed. The proposed site of the facility is located in an area where Oil and Gas production activities currently exist. No residences exist in the surrounding area and none are planned in the foreseeable future. The proposed compressor facility is expected to have very little if any impacts to the established area characteristics. B. SECTION 5.03.07 INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONS: 1) Existing lawful use of water through depletion or pollution ofsurface run- off, stream flow or ground water No fresh water is planned to be used for this project. Williams will implement and insure strict compliance with the Storm Water Management Plan (SWIM) designed for the construction and operations phases of the compressor station and pipeline. (See Storm Water Management Plan attached) 2) Impact on adjacent land from the generation of vapor, dust, smoke, noise, glare, or vibrations. or other emanations. The proposed compressor facility and pipeline are not expected to generate any levels of vapor, dust, smoke, noise, glare or vibrations that would impact adjacent lands. The initial compressors %%111 not be housed within a building but will be equipped with hospital grade mufflers in order to minimize noise levels. A building will be installed following the maximum expansion in numbers of compressors in the future. The above ground appurtenances will be painted so as to blend with the surrounding topography. Any necessary pumps will be housed within a building and on concrete flooring to minimize vibration and noise levels as well as preventing weather impacts. All emissions will be Tess than the regulated allowable limits. A base level sound study has been conducted and is available for review in the "Sound Study", Section of the SUP application packet. 3) Impacts on tt ildlile and domestic animals through the creation of hazardous attractions, alteration of existing native vegetation, blockade of migration routes, use patterns or other disruptions. Please see Wildlife Study, Section of Special Use Permit Application. 4) Affirmatively show the impacts of truck and automobile traffic to and from such used and their impacts to areas in the County. Williams contracted HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. to conduct a Traffic Study regarding the proposed facility and pipeline construction and operations. Please refer to the analysis document attached in the SUP application Packet. 5) That sufficient distance shall separate such use from abutting property which might be otherwise damaged by operations of the proposed use(s). The proposed facility is located approximately 2.25 miles west of the nearest residence. Adjacent landowners consist of Williams Production RMT Company located 1410 feet to the WSW, BLM Lands 605 feet north, Colorado Department of Transportation, Interstate 1-70 right-of- way 1371 feet to the south and the Smallwood property line located 4430 feet to the WNW. The facility is not expected to have any adverse effects on any of the abutting properties. 6) Mitigation measures proposed for all of the forgoing impacts identified and for the standards identified in Section 5.03.08 of this Resolution. Please see following Section 5.03.08 for mitigation measures. C. SECTION 5.03.08 [Industrial Performance Standards[: Pursuant to section 5.03.08 of the Zoning Resolution, all Industrial Operations in the County shall comply with applicable County, State, and Federal regulations regulating water, air and noise pollution and shall not be conducted in a manner constituting a public manner as to minimise heat, dust, smoke, vibration, glare and odor and all other undesirable environmental effects beyond the boundaries of the property in which such uses are located, in accord with the following standards: 1) Volume of sound generated shall comply with the standards set forth in the Colorado Revised Statues at the time any new application is made. The sound level of noise emanating from the facility will not exceed the 70 decibel (daytime) and 65 decibel (nighttime) maximum set forth in the Colorado Revised Statute 25.12.103. Please see "Sound Study" attached. 2) Vibrations generated: every use shall be so operated that the ground vibration is inherently and recurrently generated is not perceptible, without instruments, at any point of any boundary line of the property on which the use is located. Any vibrations caused from the operations of the facility are not anticipated to be perceptible with or without instruments outside the boundaries of the facility or property boundary. • • • 3) Emissions of smoke and particulate matter: every use shall be operated so as to comply with all Federal, State and County air quality laws, regulations, and standards. The proposed compressor facility and its operations are not expected to produce emissions of smoke or particular matter above regulated levels. illiams Production RMT agrees to comply with all Federal, State, and County agencies laws, regulations and standards governing air quality. 4) Emission of heat, glare, radiation and fumes: every use shall be so operated that is does not emit heat, glare, radiation or filmes which substantially interfere with the existing use of adjoining property or which constitutes a public nuisance or hazard. Flaring of gases, aircraft warning signals, reflective painting of storage tanks, or other such operations which may be required by laws as safety or air pollution control measures shall be exempted from this provision. The construction and operations of the pipeline and compressor should not have an adverse impact to adjoining properties. The mitigation of potential concerns regarding heat, glare, radiation and fumes were considered during the site selection process for the facility. All above ground equipment will be painted so as to prevent any potential glare and should not impact adjacent properties. Daily inspections of the facility will be conducted by'Williams personnel to insure the compliance with all regulations. The proposed facility equipment such as tanks, piping, mechanical equipment, etc. will he painted an appropriate color to blend with the surrounding terrain, and to mitigate the impacts of the facility. 5) Storage area, salvage yard. sanitary landfill and mineral disposal areas: a) Storage of flammable or explosive solids or gases shall be in accordance with accepted standards and laws and shall comply with the Federal, State and Local Fire codes and written recommendations/ comments from the appropriate local protection district regarding compliance with the appropriate codes; These materials will be stored in accordance with accepted standards and laws and shall compl► with all Federal, State, and Local Fire Codes and written recommendations. b) At the discretion of the County Commissioners, all outdoor storage facilities may be required to be enclosed by fence, landscaping or wall adequate to conceal such facilities from adjacent properties. Williams intends to construct an 8' chain link fence around the perimeter of the facility to eliminate the risk of wildlife, livestock or unauthorized perk- from entering the facility c) No materials or waste shall be deposited upon a property in such form or manner that they may be transferred off the property by any reasonable foreseeable natural causes or.forces; The proposed Compressor Facility is designed as a no discharge facility and all tanks will be within the appropriate liner systems and containment ring area. Engineering design measures have been taken so as not to allow any uncontrolled release of storm water from the facility. d) Storage of Heavy Equipment will only be allowed subject to (a) and (c) above and the following standards. 1) The minimum lot size is .five (S) acres and is not a platted subdivision. 2) The equipment storage area is not placed any closer than 300 ft. from any existing residential dwelling. 3) All equipment storage will be enclosed in an area with screening at least eight (8) feet in height and obscured from view al the same elevation or lower. Screening may include berming, landscaping, sight obscuring fencing or a combination of any of these methods. 4) Any repair and maintenance activity requiring the use of equipment that will generate noise, odors or glare beyond the property boundaries will be conducted within a building or outdoors the hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon. -Fri. 5) Loading and unloading of vehicles shall be conducted on private property and may not be conducted on any public right -of: It ay. No heavy equipment storage will occur in association with operations of the compressor facility. Heavy equipment will be temporarily parked at the proposed location only during construction of the facility. Once construction has been completed all heavy equipment will be removed from the site. e) Any storage area for uses not associated with natural resources shall not exceed ten (10) acres in size. No additional storage areas unassociated with the proposed use or natural resources will occur. The proposed compressor station facility is associated • • • with the production and development of natural resources more specifically Natural Gas. Any lighting of storage areas shall be pointed downward and inward to the property center and shaded to prevent direct refection on adjacent property. Williams intends to install lighting for the operations of the proposed facility. The lighting will remain off during unattended times such as night time periods. Lighting will be installed at strategic locations as needed to provide a safe wort: environment. Williams will insure that all lights are pointed in a downward direction during use. 6) Water Pollution: in a case in which potential hazards exist, it shall be necessary to install safeguards designed to comply with Regulation of the Environmental Protection Agency before operation of the facilities may begin all percolation test of ground water resource tests as may be required by Local or State Health Qjcers must be met before operation of the facility may begin. Control measures have been identified and will be implemented as per the Storm Water Management Plan. Storage of all liquid materials and/or natural gas byproducts will be done in accordance with the regulations set forth by the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). All required permit applications have been submitted concurrently with the Garfield County SUP application. PROPOSED SMITH GULCH COMPRESSOR SITE SECTION 32, TBS, R96W, 6TH PID! LEGAL OESCRIf'fi0N. A parcel of land situate in the NW1/4NE1/4 Section 32. Township 6 South. Range 96 West of the 61h Principal Meridian. County of Gadd. State of Colorado. the perimeter being more particularly described for area as follows Commencing at o found 1912 0-L0 brass cop monument in place for the North 1/4 corner cornmon with Sections 32 ilk 29 of 501d Township and Range; whence o 1912 G.L0 brass cap monument in place for the Section comer common wilh Sections 32.33.29 and 29 of sold Township and Ronge ✓,cors N89'48'47"i; a distance of 2713-54 feet, with oil hearings contained herein being relative thereto. thence 5&659'25"E n distance of 994.43 feet to the true point of beginning of the parcel described herein; thence S0000'00 -F a distance of 61.91 feet; thence S3615'10rE o distonce of 182.45 feet; thence 52.726'40-E o d}stance of 310.79 feet; thence 588'39'41-6 a distance of 161.98 feet; thence N5819'04'E a distance of 184.39 feet: thence No6'54'53E- a distance el 91.54 feet: thence N28'54.33'W o distance of 550.79 feet; thence 5252617-W a distance of 224.75 fret; thence 540.34'03'W o distance of 109.82 feet to the point of begird/lg. contoEning 5.12 acres more or less. NOTES. 1} rhe proposed site es shown and move a not a boundary auevey end no monumenle wore eel, the propane of the above Iegol description was to descrbe the perimeter and oven for the proposed Smith Gulch t:ompressor Site 7) The proposed pad note peon prepared by t51 far *Bildern Production RMT. SURVEYOR'S CERTIFICATE I, George R. Sauer: o Professional I, and Surveyor in the Slate of Colorado do hereby G- ttyo4.-11tts•€ryvey was mode under my direct supervision, . d at' this, Site PIA....represents said Survey. COLORADO P. CONSTRUCT I DN '44t tAtt lJRVEYS, ING. WiLLL41^1S PRODUCTION RMT 0012 SUNRISE BLVD. SILT, GO 81652 (el0,15i6-5153 DATE:2-26-08 DRAWN BY: BM/1'M Dn PsARRET1/100B 11RH COIL ,_ SCALE: 1' 100. SHEET: 1 OF 1 1 28 SEE MAP 2409-284 ,T Pmei 2447-061-00-056 2447-064-00-057 Adjoining 2447 • • • ®IIIIi'.111Uii►4P11tl1i, 41,1 U4`14CI4hr'Gi1,l tilal.iy BI Recentiana: 727905 1 if833Abe Fne•Si6©aa�Dom 1562 .114 7732GARFIELD G0jNTr co _ Recorder. SPECIAL WARRANTY DEET] THIS DEED. made this 12th day of July. 2007 between SIC Holdings, LLC attic County of Garfield, and Siete of CO. gmnuxtsi, and 61riltiams Prodactlon RMI' Company, a Delaware Corporation whusc legal address is I515 Arapahoe Street. Tower 3 Stile 1000. Denver,CO 00202 County of Denver. and Slate of CO, grantee; of the WITNESS, that Ilia gramorlsi, for and in consideraiian of rhe sura of ten dollars and other good and valuable consideration. lite receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged. hove grained. bargained, sold and conveyed, and by these presents do gran{, bargain. sell. ennve} and confirm unto the grantees, their heirs and assigns forever. all the real property, raged= with improvements. If any. shoran. lying and being in ihr County nrGarfield rind Slate of Colorado described aS fellows See Exhibit "A" attached hereto, RESERVING UNTO THE GRANTOR ALL OIL, GAS, MINERAL AND MINERAL RIGHTS IN SUCH PROPERTY also known by street and member an Vacant land TOGETHER with all and singular the hereditaanents and appuicAnnccs dtcreunta belonging, or re anywise appertaining. and Itrc reversion and reversions., remainder and remainders. rents issues and profits thereof, and all the estate. righL title, Interest. claim and demand rwhatsaever oldie gtantortsL either in law or equity. of; in and to the above bargained premises. with the hereditaments and appurtenances: TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the said premises above bargained and described, %vith the appurtenances, nota the grantees. their peers and assigns forever. The grentorts). for themselves, their heirs. and personal representatives, successors and assigns do covenant and agree that they s{sale and will WARRANT AND FOREVER DEFEND the obovo bargained premises in the quiet and peaceable possession of the grantees, Ihcir heirs and assigns. against all and every person or persons claiming ilio whole or any pan thereon by, through fir under the grantorisl. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the grantorisl Ileac executed Oils decd an Dm' due act forth above. Holdings. LLC Robert WStruwe, Manager STATE OF COLORADO 1st COUNTY OF GARFIELD The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me on July 12. 3907 by Robert W. Suuwc as Manager of Si: Holdings. LLC WITNESS my hand and official s al My commission expires: Caeama,l.vrllh P I Na 0/111) ,-R a..17,1 w .mom r oaNCe„ raft C+.rer, e;Delews.1 Cwrsc•n 1.IS Aura. Suer, faro I Saar rip: Dr,.n CO sox: No. Id. Rev, 441. SPECIAL WARRANTY DEED r �7 Nola lg• f iiblic 12715th SSth Street Rifle. CO 81b50 JANET L. NLi8BJLL NOT, R ! PUBLic STATE f]r f•CJLQR ADO ar 08 P11 P.Pity NII,WI 1.ldlll'Wl1 rA11ftrY.14'l 81111 RNCO ptlona: 727903 07/1372007 OA :55-00 PM B. 40e5 P: 0925 Jean RIber,ce 2 of 3 Roc Foa-5S5 as Dee F°a ii° 2G GA.RFIELD CaiyrTT Ca File No. 0703096-R EXHIBIT "A" Parcel 1 A tract or parcel of land No. 81 0 -RA of the Stale Department of Highways, Division of Highways. State of Colorado. Project No. 1 70-1(45) section 8 in the NW!/SE'/. and the NEV. of section 32,Township 7 South, Range 96 West of the 6th P.M.. in Garfield County,Colorado,said tract or parcel of land being more particularly described as follows: Beginning ata point which is the intersection of the north -south midsection line Section 32, Township 7 South, Range 96 West, 61h P.M., and the northerly right of way line of State Highway No. 70 (October, 1984) from which the Nonh '/. Corner of said section 32, a brass cap, bears North 00°54'30" West a distance of 3,472 20 Feet; thence North 66°25'00" East along the said right of way line, a distance of 46.30 feet; thence North 6397'30" East continuing along said right of way line, a distance of 579.90 feet; thence continuing along said right or way line ['long the arc of a curve to the left having a radius of 2,141.80 feet, e distance of 457.30 feet (the chord of this arc bears North 52048'00" East a distance of 456.40 feet); thence North 41°38'30" East continuing along said right of way line a distance of 579.90 feet; thence North 39'11'00' East continuing along said right of way line a distance of 374.80 feet; thence North 40°42'00" East continuing along said right of way line, a distance of 611.60 feet: thence continuing along said right of way line along the arc of a curve to the right having a radius of 3,96920 feet. a distance of 932.60 feet (the chord of this arc bears North 50°25'00" East a distance of 930.40 feet) to the section line common to section 32 and section 33 of said Township: thence North 00°25'00" west along said section line a distance of 1.230.80 feet to the Section Corner common to Sections 28, 29. 32 and 33 of said To'.vnship, a brass cap monument; thence South 88°08`00" West along the northerly line of section 32. a distance of 2,712.70 feet to the said North V. Comer: thence South 00°54'30" West along the north -south midsection Line, a distance of 3.472.20 feet, more or less to he POiNT OF BEGINNING. AND A tract or parcel of land No. 810 -RB of the State Department of Highways, Division of Highways, State of Colorado. Project No. 170-1(45) Section 8 in theNW'/.NW'h and the NE'/,NW'/., Section 33, Township 7 South, Range 96 West of the 6th P.M., in Garfield County, Colorado, said tract or parcel of land being more particularly described as follows: Beginning ata point which is the intersection of the northerly right of way line of State Highway No, 70 (October 1984) and the Section line common to Sections 33 and 28, Township 7 South, Range 96 West, 6th P.M. from which the section corner comrnon to sections 28, 29. 32, and 33. of said Township, a brass cap, bears South 85°13'30" West a distance of 1,982.40 feet; thence South 85°13'30' West along said Section tine, a distance of 1,982.40 feet to the said section comer: thence South 00°25'00" East along the section line common to said Sections 32 and 33, a distance of 1,230.80 feet to the said northerly right of way line; thence along said northerly right of way line along the arc of a curve to the right having a radius of 3,969.70 feet, a distance of 5.10 feet (the chord of this arc bears North 57011'00" East a distance of 5.10 feet); thence North 60°12'00" East continuing along said right of way line. a distance of 611.60 feet: thence North 61°43'00" East continuing along,said right of way line, a distance of438.30 feet; thence North 57°08'00" East continuing along said right of way tine a distance of 904.10 feet: thence North 36°13'30" East continuing along said right of way line. a distance of 484.30 feet, more or Iess. AND A tract or parcel of land No. 810 -RC of the State Department of Highways, Division of Highways, State of Colorado Project No. 1 70-1(45) section 8, in the SE'/.SW'i., and the SW""/SE'/, of Section 28, Township 7 South, Range 96 West oldie 6th 1',M.. in Garfield County. Colorado, said tract or parcel of land being marc particularly described as follows: Beginning ata paint which is the intersection of the northerly right of way line of State Highway No. 70 (October. 1984) and the Section line common to Sections 33 and 28, Township 7 South. Range 96 West, 6th P.M.. from which the section corner common to Sections 28, 29, 32, and 33 of said Township. a brass cap, bears South 85°13'30" West a distance of 1,982.40 feet; thence North 36°13'3V East along the said right of way line, a distance of 75.00 feet; thence North 66°03'00" East continuing along said right of way line, a distance of 727,40 feet; thence North 34°29'30" West a distance of 88.00 feet to the North-South midsection line of Section 28; thence Nora[ along said midsection line, a distance of 897.60 feat to the northeast corner of the SE""/.•SW;. of Section 28; thence South 86°17'30" West along the north line of the said SE°SSW'/, a distance of 1,32020 feet to the Northwest corner of the SE'/:SW',.: thence South along the West line of the said SE"/SW'., a distance of 1,295.40 feet, to the section line common to Sections 28 and 33: thence North 85°13'30" East along said section line a distance 01660 410 feet more or less, to the POiNT OF BEGINNING Parcel 2 A parcel of land being Government Lot 2, the SE'/ of the SW'/ and a portion of the S'/ of the SEA of Section 31. Township 7 South, Range 96 West of the Sixth Principal Meridian lying Northerly of Interstate highway 70, being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Southwest corner of said Section 31, being the Sotuhwest corner of Government Lot 2. thence along the Westerly line of said lot North 00°51'00" West 1320.00 feet; thence. along the Northerly line of said Government Lot 2. BifirimiTIANigiAiNii.WWWWWitliiNaki Roceptd°n#: 7279133 07113/2007 04:55; e0 P✓1 a t#eg p, .0327 Jean 016.rlc° 3 of 3 neo Fee:516,00 Dom Fon.r14 23 GARFtEL❑ =PITY CO then Northerly line of said SEASW'/. and the Northerly line of said SVSEV. North 8892''13" East 4747,00 feet to the Easterly line of said Section 31; thence along the Easterly line of said Section 31 South 00°2T52" East 581.74 feet to the Northerly right-of-way of Interstate Highway 70: thence along said Northerly right-of-way the following three (3) courses: South 60°04'30" West 314.00 feet: thence South 66°25'00" West 1190.40 feet; thence South 64°54'00" West 325.86 feet to the southerly fine of said Section 31; thence along said Southerly line North 88°52'14" East 3076.60 feet to the POINT OF BEGTNNTNG. Together with: A parcel of land situate within a portion of Section 32, Township 7 south, Range 96 West oldie Sixth Principal Meridian, being all that part of the SW'A of the SW'/., the STA of the SWV, the NEV of the SW/, and the SE'/4 of the NW'f:, lying northerly of Interstate Highway 70, being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Northwest corner of said SWY of the SW''h thence along the Northerly line of said SW'/ of the SW'/= thence along the Northerly line of said SW's of the SW"/. North 88°45'00" East 1326.60 feet to the Southwest corner of said NE'/ of the SW'/., thence along the Westerly line North 00°43'00` West 1322.64 feet to the Southwest comer of the SE1/4 of the NW'1., thence along the Westerly line North 00°4I'00" West 1285.02 feet to the Northwest corner of said SL•1/4 of the NW'1: thence along the Northerly line of said SEh of the NW'J North 87929'00" East 1316.04 feet to the Northeast corner of the SE'/, of the NW"f,; thence along the Easterly line South 00°56'14" East 1313.40 feet to the Northeast comer of the NE4 of the SW'/.; thence along the Easterly line South 00°58'01" East 846.86 feet to the Northerly right of way of Interstate Highway 70; thence along said Northerly right-of-way dee following three (3) courses: South 66°25'00" West 1977.90 feet: thence South 84°51'00" West 316.20 feet; thence South 60004'30" West 591.50 feet to the Westerly line of the SW'/, ante SW'!; thence along said line North 00977'52 West 581.74 feet to the POINT OF BEGIN)'IING. TOGETHER WITH A parcel of lartd situate within a portion of Section I, Township 8 South, Range 97 West of the Sixth Principal Meridian, being more particularly described as follows; Government Lots 1 and 2. and the SY/ of the NE''. of said Section I TOGETHER WMTI-1 A parcel of land situate within n portion of Section 6, Township 8 South, Range 96 West of the Sixth Principal Meridian, lying Northerly of Interstate Highway 70, being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Northwest corner of said Section 6, thence North 88°52'14" East along the Northerly line of said Section 6 3073.60 feer to the Northerly right-of-way of Interstate Highway 70; thence along said Northerly right-of-way the following six (6) courses: South 64054'00" West 274.14 feet; thence along the arc of a curve to the left 1042.55 feet, said curve having a radius of 3456.33 feet, a central angle of 1716'57", the chord of which bears South 54°2400" West 1038.60 feet; thence South 47938'00" West 614.00 feet; thence South 42046'30" West 1139.40 feet: thence South 6491'00" West 338.20 feet; thence South 40032'00" West 674.10 feet to the Westerly line of said Section 6; thence along said Westerly line North 000111 I West 2566.48 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING. WILLIAMS PRODUCTION RMT HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR STATION LEGAL DESCRIPTION A parcel of land situated in the NW 1/4 / 4NE 1/4 section 32, Township 6 South, Range 96 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, County of Garfield, State of Colorado, The perimeter being more particularly described for area as follows: Commencing at a found 1912 G.L.D. brass cap monument in place for the North 1/4 corner common with Sections 32 & 29 of said Township and Range; whence a 1912 G.L.D. brass cap monument in place for the comer common with. Sections 32,33,29 and 28 of said Township and range bears N89°48'47"E a distance of 2713.54 feet, with all bearings contained herein being relative thereto; thence S65°59'25"E a distance of 894.43 feet to the true point of beginning of the parcel described herein; thence S00°00'00"E a distance of 81.91 feet; thence S36° 15' l 0"E a distance of 182.45 feet; thence S22°26'40"E a distance of 310.79 feet; thence S88°39'41 "E a distance of 161.98 feet; thence N58° 19'04"E a distance of 184.39 feet; thence NO6°54'53"E a distance of 81.54 feet; thence N28°53'53"W a distance of 550.79 feet; thence S75°26' 17"W a distance of 224.75 feet; thence S40°34'03"W a distance of 109.82 feet to the point of beginning, containing 5.12 acres more or less. EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN WILLIAMS PRODUCTION Parachute Natural Gas Production Field & Plants IN THE EVENT OF: ▪ Accidental Release of Regulated Substance (e.g., hydrocarbons), or Bodily Injury (e.g., heart attack) or Property Damage/emergency (e.g., work over rig turned over): • Evacuate degree of non -incidental release. > If Non -Catastrophic, notify Superintendent, District Manager and the Manager of Safety, Health, and Environment to determine the course of action and make appropriate reporting contacts. > If Catastropic, conduct Emergency Shutdown (ESD), make appropriate notifications, evaluate impact of release to employees and public, and evacuate facility per Emergency Evacuation Plan as necessary. Notify Superintendent and District Manager to engage Emergency Response Plan. Need For Emergency Response Support: Steve Soychak, District Manager (970) 683-2280 phone (970) 216-0922 Mobile Brad Moss, Production Superintendent (970) 683-2282 phone (970) 256-3379 pager (970) 250-3683 mobile Scott Brady, Drilling Superintendent (970) 683-2284 phone (970) 270-9187 pager (970) 270-9187 mobile Eric Miller, Plant Supervisor (970) 285-9377 phone (970) mobile Kevin McDermott, Safety Engineer Dave Cesark, EH&S Specialist Garfield County Sheriff Parachute Fire Rifle Fire Department (970) 285-9377 phone (970) 309-1195 mobile (970) 683-2287 phone (970) 216-9181 mobile (970) 625-1899 or 911 911 911 • • • Need For Emergency Health Care Grand River Medical Center Located at: 501 Airport Rd., Rifle, Colorado p. Ambulance 911 Designated employees trained in Medic 15T Aid are to perform 157 aid procedures on injured employees as applicable. EVACUATION AND ESCAPE INFORMATION Note: All personnel are responsible for their own evacuation, and should actively solicit evacuation assistance if needed. Escape Route: PRIMARY ROUTE Proceed on lease rd. South and East to Hwy 6. Go East on Hwy 6 to CR 215, go North on CR 215 to the Williams Office. Post -Evacuation Employee Accounting • Employee are to report by phone (970-285-9377), or in person to Parachute office located at 1058 County Road 215 in Parachute, Colorado. • The incident commander will alert emergency responders of any employees who are unaccounted for after an emergency evacuation, so that rescue operations can be addressed. Reporting Emergencies • Emergency phone contact list on attached page. Critical Duties All employees will evacuate during a catastrophic ESD emergency, The District Manager, Production Superintendent or Drilling Superintendent, or Plant Supervisor is the only qualified persons to issue permission to enter the facility, or response area. • Activate Emergency Shutdown (ESD) System. • Activate Emergency Response Systems by notifying Superintendent or District Manager of your emergency. • Render Medical assistance to any injured employee. Only persons trained in First Aid and CPR are qualified to render aid. • Evacuate facility as necessary per this Emergency Evacuation Plan. • Make appropriate notifications of emergency conditions. Additional Emergency Plan Information • Emergency Response Shall Occur as Follows: ➢ First responder notification: Any facility or field personnel noticing a release or other potentially hazardous situation shall notify the person in charge immediately. • Need For Emergency Health Care: A Grand River Medical Center Located at: 501 Airport Rd., Rifle, Colorado A Ambulance 911 Designated employees trained in Medic Isl. Aid are to perform ly` aid procedures on injured employees as applicable. EVACUATION AND ESCAPE INFORMATION NOTE: All personnel are responsible for their own evacuation, and should actively solicit evacuation assistance if needed. Escape Route: • PRIMARY ROUTE Proceed county road 306 and West on county road 300 to the Parachute Office or East on county road 300 to Battlement Mesa and then to the Parachute Office, see attached map. Post -Evacuation Employee Accounting • Employees are to report by phone (970-285-9377), or in person to Parachute office located at 1058 County Road 215 in Parachute, Colorado. • The incident Commander will alert emergency responders of any employees who are unaccounted for after an emergency evacuation, so that rescue operations can be addressed. Reporting Emergencies • Emergency Phone Contact List on attached page Critical Duties All employees will evacuate during a catastrophic ESD emergency. The District Manager, Production Superintendent or Drilling Superintendent, or Plant Supervisor are the only qualified persons to issue permission to enter the facility, or response area. • Activate Emergency Shutdown (ESD) system. • Activate Emergency Response System by notifying Superintendent or District Manager of your emergency. • Render medical assistance to any injured employees. Only persons trained in First. Aid and CPR are qualified to render aid. • Evacuate facility as necessary per this Emergency Evacuation Plan • Make appropriate notifications of emergency conditions Additional Emergency Plan Information • Emergency Responses shall occur as follows: A First responder notification: Any facility or field personnel noticing a release or other potentially hazardous situation shall notify the person in charge immediately • • • of the nature of the hazardous occurrence. Location, product involved, release quantity, and status of personnel in the area shall be communicated. Personnel identifying the emergency shall evacuate the area as necessary. Only persormel designated and trained for the particular function may take actions required to combat the emergency. Y The Person in charge will assume the functions of the site Commander until emergency responders (EMS) arrive on scene and coordinates this role. The Site Commander possesses the ability, and has been granted the authority, to assume control and make decisions when an emergency arises. The Emergency Coordinator will: • Notify potentially affected personnel of the emergency. • Sound any applicable emergency alarms (describe alarm system, if any, used to alert on-site personnel). • Determine if Emergency Shutdown (ESD) and/or Evacuation are/is applicable. • Take immediate measures as possible to prevent contamination of waterways or other mechanisms that might impact public safety. • Determine when off-site emergency responders are needed. • Notify the Production Foreman, District Manager, Safety Engineer and Environment Specialist. • Designate personnel to remain in the vicinity of the incident to monitor the area for further problems and to assist emergency response personnel with necessary facility functions/site layout. • Williams Production RMT will refund alt cost incurred in connection with the emergency response for the activities to the appropriate emergency service provider. Alarm System (Plant) • Audible ESD alarm on panel in control building • Note that direct verbal communication of an emergency is satisfactory for the plant if this can be effective in alerting all personnel who may be on-site. Non -Evacuation Emergency (Plant) • Activate Emergency Shutdown (ESD) • Notify Person in charge/Site Commander, Safety Engineer and Environmental Specialist. Updating Emergency Plan • This Evacuation Plan will be reviewed at least annually and revised to reflect relevant changes. Employee Training • This Evacuation Plan will be reviewed with all new employees during their orientation (or first week of employment), and with all employees on an annual basis. SPECIFIC ACTION PLAN FOR ACCIDENTAL RELEASE Emergency Flan Decision Tree Hydrocarbon Release Non -Catastrophic 1. 911 (if required) 2. Notify Superintendent and Foreman 3. Notify District Manager 4. Notify EH&S 5. Assist & assume site commander lead until relieved by Foreman or Superintendent Catastrophic 1. 911 (if required) 2. ESD Plant (follow PSM response plan) 3. Notify Foreman, Superintendent. 4. Notify District Manager 5. Notify EH&S 6. Assume Role of Site Commander — until relieved by Foreman or Superintendent. • • • auk 301 Pa To chafe Ll r 02 Battlement Mesa ----Proposed Construction Area Williams Parachute Office 4 id 6 • • WILLIAMS PRODUCTION RMT WEED CONTROL !'LAN Table 1. Garfield County Listed Noxious Weeds of Conern • Common Name/ Symbol Scientific Name Type— Control Methods - - Common Burdock ARM12 Arctium rninus B Grasses compete well. Re -seed with arrressive grasses, cut or dig rosettes and mow bolting plants, herbicides Thistle, Musk CANU Carduus nutans B Till or hand grub In the rosette stage, mow at bolting or early flowering, apply seed head & rosette weevils, leaf feeding beetles, and/or herbicides in rosette stage. Knapweed, Russian ACRES Centaurea repens P 'Re -seeding disturbed site with fast growing grasses, herbicide in fall (Curtail recommended), allelapathic- tillage may be necessary Houndstongue CYOF Cynoglossum officinale B Re -seed with aggrssive grasses, remove at flowering or early seed, or apply herbicides at pre -bud or rosette stage. Thistle. Scotch ONAC Onopordum acanthium B Biennial' tillage. hand grubbing, herbicides in rosette stage, mowing at bolting stage. State of Colorado. 2000. Colorado Revised Statute 35-5-5, Symbol is US Dept. Ag. Nat. Res. Cons. Service official abbreviated code. **A- Annual, B - Biennia(. P - Perennial Table 2. Treatment Strategies for Annual and Biennial Noxious Weeds Target: Prevent Seed Production 1. Hand Grub (pull), hoe, till, cultivate in rosette stage and befor flowering or seed maturity. 2. Chop roots below soil level. - - 3. Treat with herbicide in rosette or bolting stage, before flowering 4. Mow biennials after bolting stage, before seed set Mowing annuals may not prevent Flowering • Table 3. Treatment Strategies for Perinnials Target: Deplete nutrient reserves in root system, prevent seed production 1. Mow plants to expend as much energy from root system as possible, do not treat when first emerging in spring but allow growth to bud/ bloom stage. 2. Herbicide treatment at bud to bloom stage or in the fall. In the fall plants draw nutrients into the roots for winter storage Herbicides will be drawn, down to the roots more efficiently at this time If the weed patch has been present for a long period of time, another season of seed production is not as important as getting ther herbicide into the root system. Spraying in the fall will kill the following year's shoots, which are being formed on the roots at this time. 3 Mowing usually is not recommended because the pland will flower anyway; seed production may be reduced, however. Many studies have shown that mowing perennials and spraying the re -growth is not as effective as spraying without mowing. Effect of mowing is species dependent therefore, it is imperative to know the species and its biology. • Reclamation Plan • • INTEGRATED VEGETATION AND NOXIOUS WEED MANAGEMENT PLAN WILLIAMS PRODUCTION RMT SMITH GULCH COMPRESSOR STATION AND PIPELINE GARFIELD COUNTY, COLORADO Proposed Smith Gulch Compressor Site: view to the northwest Prepared for: Williams RMT Prepared by: WestWater Engineering 2570 Foresight Circle #1 Grand Junction, CO 81505 In coordination with: Wagon Wheel Consulting 111 E. 3" St. Ste 213 Rifle, CO 81650 July 2008 • 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Project Description Williams Production RMT (Williams) has requested WestWater Engineering (WWE) to complete an ``Integrated Vegetation and Noxious Weed Management Plan" for a proposed special use permit in Garfield County, Colorado. Williams is seeking the special use permit to install a natural gas compressor station and pipeline west of Parachute, Colorado, approximately 5.5 miles. The proposed compressor site is located on private land owned by Williams in Section 32, Township 7 South, Range 96 West (Figure 1). A portion of the pipeline is located along the north frontage road that parallels 1-70, and the remaining portion is on. Williams' property. The topography at the site varies from small, rolling hills to flat, gently sloped terrain. The project site vegetation is composed of sagebrush, greasewood, and a dense infestation of cheatgrass, particularly in the flatter terrain. Smith Gulch bisects the Williams property running from north to south. There are no perennial streams in the project area; however, a small ephemeral drainage is located immediately east of the compressor site. Elevations in the project area vary from 5,100 to 5,300 ft. The Colorado River is located about 0,8 -mule south of the project area at its closest point. The primary use of the site and surrounding area is agriculture/rangeland, wildlife habitat, and recent natural gas extractionldevelopment. The project area is currently undeveloped with no existing homes, out -buildings or industrial structures. One historic earthen dam has been constructed to create a pond for watering livestock. 1.2 General Survey Information Mapped soil types, as published by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), were reviewed to determine the soil types and vegetation characteristics of the compressor site and surrounding property (NRCS 2008). A field inspection of the project area was conducted by WWE biologists on June 30, and July 1- 2, 2008. WWE biologists surveyed the area within the Williams parcel ownership boundary (Figure 1) to identify vegetation communities and to search for, identify, and map noxious weed species. Vegetation types were determined through field identification of plants, aerial photography, and on -the -ground assessments of plant abundance visible during the survey. Identification of plant species was aided by using pertinent published field guides (Whitson et al. 2001, CWMA 2007, Kershaw et al. 1998, Weber and Wittman 2001). Photographs were taken of the general project location, vegetation, terrain, and other specific biological findings and can be found in Appendices B and C. Locations of weeds and other features included in this report were recorded with the aid of a handheld global positioning system instrument (GPS) using NAD831WGS84 map datum, with all coordinate locations based on the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinate system in Zone 125 (Appendix B). WestWater Engineering Page 1 of 15 pages July 2008 • • 2.0 LANDSCAPE SETTING 2.1 Vegetation Communities Vegetation communities in the project area are pinion _juniper woodlands, sagebrush and greasewood shrublands and non -farmed rangeland. Piiion-juniper woodlands are dominated by pinon pine (Pinus edulis) and Utah juniper (Juniperus utahensis) and are mixed with an understory of mainly Wyoming sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata Myomingensis), greasewood (Sarcobatus vermiculatus), fortis, and grasses. Vegetation along the drainages and drier areas consists of greasewood, rubber rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus), and basin big sagebrush (Atermesia tridentata tridentata). The shrublands within the project area are composed primarily of Wyoming big sagebrush, greasewood, Indian ricegrass (Oryzopsis hytnenoides) galletta grass (Hillaria,jamesiij and various wheatgrass species. Non-native downy brome (Bromus tectorurn) is dominant in the understory of the shrublands and scattered on the hillsides. It should also be noted that Colorado hookless cactus (Scleracactus glaucus) was found on the project location along two ridge tops (Table 1); special precautions should be taken when treating weeds in the vicinity of the cactus (Photo 1). Photo 1. Colorado hookless cactus found on project location Table 1. Location of Colorado hookless cactus UTM coordinates Number of Plants Observed Easting Northing 1 746830 4364552 8 746918 4364277 WestWater Engineering Page 2 of 15 pages July 2008 • • • 2.2 Soil Types and Terrain Soil types and the vegetation supported vary with elevation and slope aspect. The slope aspects are generally to the south and west. Mapped soil types, as published by the NRCS, USDA, were reviewed to determine the soil types and vegetation characteristics of the project site and surrounding property (NRCS 2008). Two soil types are found in the project area and include the following: 1. Arvada foam composes 100 percent of the soils at the compressor site and along the pipeline alignment. The slope varies from 6 to 20 percent and vegetation typically is composed of sagebrush, greasewood and wheatgrass. Surface runoff is moderately rapid and the erosion hazard is severe. 2. Torriorthents-Cambrothrids-Rock outcrop complex is the map unit complex located east and west of the compressor site and north of the pipeline alignment. This broadly defined unit consists of exposed sandstone, shale bedrock and stony soils that are shallow to moderately deep. Slopes range from 15 to 70 percent. Native vegetation includes wheatgrass, bluegrass, Indian ricegrass, sagebrush and pinon-juniper. 3.0 NOXIOUS WEEDS 3.1 Introduction to Noxious Weeds Noxious weeds are plants that are not native to an area. Most have come from Europe or Asia, either accidentally or as ornamentals that have escaped. Once established m a new environment they tend to spread quickly since insects, diseases and animals that normally control them are absent. Noxious weeds are spread by man, animals, water, and wind. Prime locations for the establishment of noxious weeds include roadsides, sites cleared for construction, areas that are overused by animals or humans, wetlands, and riparian corridors. Subsequent to soil disturbances, native vegetation communities can be susceptible to infestations of invasive or exotic weed species. Vegetation removal and soil disturbance during construction can create optimal conditions for the establishment of invasive, non-native species. Construction equipment traveling from weed -infested areas into weed -free areas could disperse noxious or invasive weed seeds and propagates, resulting in the establishment of these weeds in previously weed -free areas. The Colorado Noxious Weed Act (State of Colorado 2005) requires local governing bodies to develop noxious weed management plans. Both the State of Colorado and Garfield County maintain a list of plants that are considered to be noxious weeds. The State of Colorado noxious weed list includes three categories. List A species must be eradicated whenever detected (none were found). List B species include weeds whose spread should be halted (6 species found). List C species are widespread, but the State will assist local jurisdictions which choose to manage those weeds (4 species found). The Garfield County Weed Advisory Board has compiled a List of 21 plants from the State list considered to be noxious weeds within the county (see Appendix A). Five of those weed species were found in, or near, the project area. The Garfield County Weed Advisory Board has duties to: WestWater Engineering Page 3 of 15 pages July 2008 • • • 1. Develop a noxious weed list, Develop a week management plan for designated noxious weeds, and 3. Recommend to the Board of County Commissioners that identified landowners submit an integrated weed management plan for their properties. 3.2 Observations Five Garfield County listed weed species are found in the project area (Table 2). The most prevalent listed weeds are downy brome and salt cedar. Common problematic weeds that are not listed on the Garfield County weed list, but are included on the Colorado State list are: halogeton (Halogeton glatneratus), redstem filaree (Erodium ricutarium), field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) and bull thistle (Cirsium vulgare). Other problematic weeds not Listed on the Garfield County or the Colorado State list, but occur on the project site are: Russian thistle (Salsola spp.) and tumble mustard (Sisymbrium altissimum). Table 2. Observed Noxious Weed Locations in the Project Area Common Name* Scientific Name USDA Symbol t General Location and Comments Downy Brame` Bromus tectorunt BRTE i Also known as cheatgrass. Can be found throughout much of the project area. Concentrations are dense in the shrublands. The hillsides near compressor pad support scattered, less dense cheatgrass stands. Field Bindweed` Convolvulus arvensis COAR4 Scattered throughout the project area, particularly along the roadsides. Canada Thistles Cirsium arvense CIAR4 A dense stand of Canada thistle was noted in the old stock pond to the southeast of the proposed compressor pad site. Redstem Filaree" Eroditem cicutarium ERCI6 Thinly scattered in much of the project area. Halogeton` Halogeton glomeratus HAGL Scattered throughout the project area. Salt Cedarb Tamarix spp. TARA Also called tamarisk. Tamarisk was observed along drainages located within the project area. Dense stands were also observed in the stock pond to the southeast of the proposed compressor pad site. Sparsely scattered along proposed pipeline corridor. Diffuse Knapweed" Centaurea diffusa CE13I3 Chicory' Ciehorium int) hus CIIN Sparsely Sparsely scattered throughout the stock pond located to the southeast of the proposed compressor pad site. Russian knapweed " Acroptilon repents ACRE ,mall patch (approximately 10 plants) located to the south of the proposed compressor pad site. Buil-Thistle' Cirsium vulgare CIVU Small patch located in the northwest area of the stock pond that is Located to the southeast of the proposed compressor pad site. * Government weed listing: Bold - Garfield County, Colorado. Superscript - Colorado State B or C list. WestWater Engineering Page 4 of 15 pages July 2008 The locations of the observed Garfield County listed weeds are plotted on the project map (Figure 1). 3.3 Treatment and Control of Noxious Weed Infestations Invasive and noxious weeds commonly occur along ditches, creek corridors and adjacent drainages (especially in riparian areas), abandoned fields, and disturbed areas such as well pads, pipeline routes, and roadsides. Control methods for the eight weed species found in the project area are described in Table 3. Included in Table 3 are weed life cycle type and recommended control methods for each weed species. Table 3. Weed Control Methods Common Name* Scientific Name USDA Symbol TY'pe** Control Methods Downy Bromec Bromus tectorum BRIE :ti Eliminate seed source. Re -vegetate with native grasses. l lerbicide treatment in early spring and fall. Avoid overgrazing. Field Bindweeds Convolvulus arvensis COAR4 P Herbicides in fall, plant competitive grasses. Bull Th' ti B Cirsium vulgare CIIJLJ B Tillage or hand grubbing in the rosette to pre -flowering stages. Repeated mowing at bolting or early flowering. Sced head and rosette weevils, leaf feeding beetles. Herbicides in rosette stage. Canada thistlee Cirxizim arvense CI R4 CP Chemical control. Read the label, follow directions and use precautions. Research at Colorado State University shows that Tordon 22K (picloram), Curtail (clopyralid plus 2,4-D), Transline (clopyralid), BanvelNanquish/Clartty (dtcamba), 2,4-D and Telar (chlorsulfuron) are effective against Canada thistle. These herbicides are most effective when combined with cultural and/or mechanical control. Mowing can be an effective tool if combined with herbicide treatments. Redstem FilareeR Erodium cicutarium ERCI6 B/WA Early Spring tillage before weed emergence in the existing corridor to a depth of 2-4 inches. Herbicide application in Spring while plants are small, Salt Cedar/Tamarisk6 Tamara- spp. I ARA P Repeated flooding prevents seedling establishment. Herbicide treatment on basal portion of young plants. Cut larger plants and treat with herbicide plus adjuvant within 30 minutes. Plant area with native species to shade out tamarisk. Biological with Diorhabda elongate deserticola, the tamarisk leaf beetle (Tamarisk Coalition 2007). Diffuse Knap►reedR Centaurea diffusu CEDI3 P Herbicide application can be used after the plant has bolted, but before plant blooms. Once plant has bloomed or at the rosette stage mechanical removal is best (bag seed heads to prevent further spread). WestWater Engineering Page 5 of 15 pages July 2008 • • Table 3. Weed Control Methods Common Name* Scientific Name USDA Symbol T3, pe** Control Methods Cb1C°' Cichorium intybus CIIN B Herbicide application before flowering. Mechanical control at the rosette stage. Russian knapweed 8 Acroptilon repens ACRE P Herbicide application is the only known control method. Its rhizomatous root system makes it virtually impossible to control with mechanical methods due to the ability of the roots to grow a new plant from root pieces. Research at the Colorado State University shows that Tordon and Curtail are the preferred herbicides for controlling Russian knapweed. Halogeton` Halogeton glomeratus HAGL A Mechanical control and plant competitive grasses. * Government weed listing: Bold - Garfield County. Colorado. Superscript - Colorado State H or C list. ** Type: A = annual: B = biennial; CP = creeping perennial: P = perennial: WA = winter annual 3.4 Recommended Treatment Strategies It is important to know whether the target is an annual, biennial, or perennial to select strategies that effectively control and eliminate the target. Treatment strategies are different depending on plant type, which are summarized in Tables 4 and 5. Herbicides should not always be the first treatment of choice when other methods can be effectively employed. Table 4. Treatment Strategies for Annual and Biennial Noxious Weeds Target: Prevent Seed Production 1. Hand grub (pull), hoe, till, cultivate in rosette stage and before flowering or seed maturity. If seeds develop, cut and bag seed heads. 2. Cut roots with a spade just below soil level. 3. Treat with herbicide in rosette or bolting stage, before flowering. - 4. Mow biennials after bolting stage, before seed set. Mowing annuals will not prevent flowering but can reduce total seed production. (Sirota 2004) Table 5. Treatment Strategies for Perennials Target: Deplete nutrient reserves in root .system, prevent seed production 1. Allow plants to expend as much energy from root system as possible, do not treat when first emerging in spring, but allow growth to budlbloom stage. If seeds develop, cut and bag if possible. 2. Herbicide treatment at bud to bloom stage or in the fall (recommended, after August 15 when natural. precipitation is present). In the fall, plants draw nutrients into the roots for winter storage. Herbicides will be drawn down to the roots more efficiently at this time due to translocation of nutrients to roots rather than leaves. If the weed patch has been present for a long period of time, another season of seed production is not as important as getting the herbicide into the root system. Spraying in fall (after middle August) will kill the following year's shoots, which are being formed on the roots at this time. WestWater Engineering Page 6 of 15 pages July 2008 • Table 5. Treatment Strategies for Perennials Target: Deplete nutrient reserves in root system, prevent seed production 3. Mowing usually is not recommended because the plants will flower anyway; seed production should be reduced. Many studies have shown that mowing perennials and spraying the re -growth is not as effective as spraying without mowing. Effect of mowing is species dependent; therefore, it is imperative to know the species and its basic biology. Timing of application must be done when biologically appropriate, which is not necessarily convenient. 4. Tillage may or may not be effective. Most perennial roots can sprout from pieces only - 1" long. Clean machinery thoroughly before leaving the weed patch. 5. Hand pulling is generally not recommended for perennial species unless you know the plants are seedlings and not established plants. Hand pulling can be effective on small patches but is very labor intensive because it must be done repeatedly. (Sirota 2004) Herbicide treatment with two or more herbicide modes of action in fall (after approximately August 1.5 when natural precipitation is present) is the best method to control difficult species. Some weeds, particularly annuals and biennials, can develop resistance to herbicides. The ability to quickly develop immunity to herbicides, especially when they are used incorrectly, makes it imperative to use the proper chemicals at the correct time in the specified concentration. Most misuse is centered on excessive application, either in frequency or concentration. This results in mostly top kill and an immune phenotype. 3,5 Life Cycle and Management Calendars Best results in the control of certain specific noxious weeds can be achieved by following the recommended timetable presented in Table C. Figure 2 is an alternative schedule for life cycle and control of biennial thistles such as bull thistle. One column that should be added is cutting of rosettes, which can be done any time during the plant's growth. Figure 2. Life Cycle and Management strategies for biennial thistles Er arapece Herbicide r+.+b Application Appl .1 -- Ro411 Blowing ... �: Ma. Bolt Flowers Det Year 1 Year 2 (Hartzler 2006) WestWater Engineering Page 7 of 15 pages July 2008 • • • Table 6. Noxious Weed Biology Species Type* Jan Feb March April May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Knapweed._. © ffuse B. A -- -- 'melte! --1 holt flowering seed set germination --> Knapweed, P erueru.c• --' tin.+erinc —> —> regrun th _-� Russian sena- lea%e% rimer critic & .crit flowering&seed set .ene.crnce & .etni- Tarnarisft Pdarmunc� emerge set growthdormanc3 Thistle, Bull - B germination rusette, —> —> —> _- —> _> _> 1st yr Thistle. Bull -B --> --> --> --> haltingflowering seed set-- --> --- rosettes 2nd yr Thistle, Canada F' rn.ettr. -� —> flowering sSet regrowth --> A = annual: WA = winter annual: B = biennial: P = perennial: LT = creeping perennial Shaded areas indicate best control timing. `Tamansk control can be done at any time or year. but is easier when leaves are absent and weather is cooler. WestWater Engineering Page 8 of 15 pages July 2008 • • Common chemical and trade names may be used m this report. The use of trade names is for clarity by the reader. Inclusion of a trade name does not imply endorsement of that particular brand of herbicide and exclusion does not imply non -approval. Certified commercial applicators will decide which herbicide to use and at what concentration according to label directions. Landowners using unrestricted products must obey all label warnings, cautions, and application concentrations. The author of this report is not responsible for inappropriate herbicide use by readers. 3.6 Commercial Applicator Recommendations A certified commercial applicator is a good choice for herbicide control efforts. Regulations may require a Colorado licensed applicator. An applicator has the full range of knowledge, skills, equipment and experience desired when dealing with tough noxious weeds. Reclamation farming services using multiple seed bin range drills and specialized related equipment is available and should be used for reclamation seeding projects. 3.7 Best Management Practices — Noxious Weeds The following practices should be adopted for any construction project to reduce the costs of noxious weed control. The practices include: • top soil, where present, should be segregated from deeper soils and replaced as top soil on the final grade, a process known as live topsoil handling; • wetland vegetation, if encountered, should be live handled like sod, temporarily watered if necessary, and placed over excavated sub -soil relative to the position from which the wetland sod was removed; • cut-off collars should be placed on all wetland and stream crossings to prevent back washing or draining of important aquatic resources; • in all cases, temporary disturbance should be kept to an absolute minimum; • equipment and materials handling should be done on established sites to reduce area and extent of soil compaction; • disturbances should be immediately reseeded with the recommended mix in the re - vegetation section; • topsoil stockpiles should be seeded with non-invasive sterile hybrid grasses, if stored longer than one growing season; • prior to delivery to the site, equipment should be cleaned of soils remaining from previous construction sites which may be contaminated with noxious weeds; and • if working in sites with weed -seed contaminated soil, equipment should be cleaned of potentially seed -bearing soils and vegetative debris prior to moving to uncontaminated terrain. WestWater Engineering Page 9 of 15 pages July 2008 In areas with slope greater than 3 percent, imprinting of the seed bed is recommended. Imprinting can be in the form of dozer tracks or furrows perpendicular to the direction of slope. When utilizing hydro -seeding followed by mulching, imprinting should be done prior to seeding unless the mulch is to be crimped into the soil surface. If broadcast seeding and harrowing, imprinting should be done as part of the harrowing. Furrowing can be done by several methods, the most simple of which is to drill seed perpendicular to the direction of slope in a prepared bed. Other simple imprinting methods include deep hand raking and harrowing, always perpendicular to the direction of slope.. Herbicides: Difficult species, such as Canada thistle, respond better to an application of a combination of two or more chemical modes of action (biological reason for plant death) rather than one (Boerboom 1999). It has also been found that use of two different groups of chemicals in the same mode of action can increase effectiveness on difficult species, e.g., phenoxys and benzoic acids or carboxylic acids and benzoic acids in a mix. Some are commercially pre- mixed, e.g., Crossbow and Super Weed -be -Gone Max, and are available over the counter. However, some of the most effective herbicides are restricted and available for use only by licensed applicators. Professionals or landowners using herbicides must use the concentration specified on the label of the container in hand. Herbicides generally do not work better at higher concentrations. Most herbicide failures observed by WWE are related to incomplete control caused by high concentrations killing top growth before the active ingredient can be transported to the roots through the nutrient translocation process. Most herbicide applications should use a surfactant if directed on the herbicide label or other adjuvants as called for on the herbicide label. Grazing: Grazing should be deferred, in reclaimed areas, until the desired grass species are established. Mechanical: Bull thistle was found in low density in the abandoned stock pond and is an example of where control could be accomplished mechanically. Effectiveness can often be increased by severing the root just below the crown of noxious weeds. Weeds that easily re - sprout, such as plumeless thistle, may need repeated treatments. Alternative Methods: An alternative method, particularly for downy brome infestations and where there is poor or destroyed topsoil, is the application of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi typically referred to as AMF. These fungi, mostly of the genus Glomus, are symbiotic with about 80 percent of all vegetation. Endo-mycorrhizal fungi are associated mostly with grasses and forbs and could be helpful when reclaiming this project. In symbiosis, the fungi increase water and nutrient transfer capacity of the host root system by as much as several orders of magnitude (Barrow and McCaslin 1995). Over-the-counter comunercial products, which are better adapted to coating seeds when re- seeding and treating roots of live seedling trees and shrubs at time of planting, come in powder form and are available from many different sources. Some also come in granular form to be spread with seed from a broadcast spreader. The best AMF products should contain more than one species. WestWater Engineering Page 10 of 15 pages July 2008 All Colorado State Forest Salida District tree and shrub plantings include the application of AMF. According to District Forester Crystal Tischler, "AMF is worth it" (Tischler 2006). Most, if not all, Colorado Department of Transportation re-vegetation/reseeding projects now require use of AMF and BioSol, a certified by-product of the penicillin manufacturing process composed primarily of mycelium. Compacted soils respond well to fossilized humic substances and by- products called humates. These humates, including hurnic and fulvic acids and humin were formed from pre -historic plant and animal deposits and work especially well on compacted soils when applied as directed. Biological control of widespread infestations in the project area, using natural insect agents are available for musk and plumeless thistles, and tamarisk (see Table 2). Musk and plumeless thistles may be controlled by the musk seed head weevil (Rhinocyllus conicus), the thistle defoliating beetle (Cassida rubiginosa) which feeds on the foliage of Canada, musk, and plumeless thistles, and the musk and plumeless thistle rosette weevil (Trichosirocalus horridus) (Sullivan 2004). The latter insect has been trialed on plumeless thistle in Garfield County, but its effectiveness on that species was inconclusive (Garfield County 2002). 4.0 REVEGETATION RECLAMATION 4.1 Project Area The project area includes two basic terrain types including steep sided -slopes and low elevation, rolling hills. Successful reclamation of the project area is dependent upon soil type and texture, slope gradient and aspect, proper weed control, and re -vegetation with suitable plant species. Based on the soil types, terrain, and the presence of noxious weeds in the project area, successful reclamation is most likely ifa seed mix of grasses is used (Tables 7). This will allow control of noxious weeds while establishing vegetation in the disturbed areas. The recommended seed mix is based on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) recommendation for the elevation and vegetation type presently occurring in the project area. Table 7. Pinyon -Juniper Woodland and/or Mountain/Wyoming Big Sagebrush Shrublarzd Common Name Scientific Names - Variety -- Season Form PLS tbs/acre* 1. Plant Both of the Follow ng (15% Each, 30% Total) Bottlebrush Squirreltail Elymus elymoides. Sitanion hystrix VNS Cool Bunch 2.0 Bluebunch Wheatgrass Pseudoroegneria spicala, Agropyron spicatum Secar, P-7, Anatone, Goldar Cool Bunch 7. and Two of the Following (20% Each, 40% Total) Thickspike Elymus Ianceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Agropyron dasystachyum Critana, Bannock, Schwendimar Cool forming 14 Slender Wheatgrass Elymus trachycaulus, Agropyron trachycaulum - Revenue, Pryor Cool. - Bunch 3.3 WestWater Engineering Page 11 of 15 pages July 2008 Table 7. Pinyon -Juniper Woodland and/or Mountain/Wyoming Big Sagebrush Shrubland Common Name Scientific Names Variety Season Form FLS lbs/acre* Western Wheatslass Pascopyrum [Agropyron] smithii Rosana, Arriba Cool Sod - forming 4.8 and Two of the Following (15% Each, 30% Total) Indian Ricegrass Achnatherum [Oryzapsis] h vmenoides Paloma, Rimrock Cool Bunch 2.8 Galleta Pleuraphis [Hilaria] jamesii Viva florets Warm Bunch/Sod forming 2.5 Muttongrass Poa fendleriana VNS Cool Bunch 0.4 Sandberg Blue, rass Poa sandbergii. 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. For best results and success, the recommended grass mixture reseeding should be done in late autumn. The reseeding rate should be doubled for broadcast application (CNI-IP 1998). Preferred seeding method is multiple seed bin rangeland drill with no soil preparation other than simple grading to slope and imprinting and waterbars where applicable. Alternative seeding methods include, but are not limited to: • harrow with just enough soil moisture to create a rough surface, broadcast seed and re - harrow, preferably at a 90 degree angle to the first harrow; • hydro -seeding (most economical in terms of seed cost); and • hand raking and broadcast followed by re -raking at a 90 degree angle to the first raking. • These are not the only means of replanting the site. However, these methods have been observed to be effective in similar landscapes. After desired grasses are established and control of target weed species is successful, then shrubs, forbs and trees can be planted without concern for herbicide damage. Few native forb seeds are available commercially as cultivars. Most are collected from natural populations. Native shrubs and forbs often do not establish well from seed, particularly when mixed with grasses. Past experience has shown that stabilizing the soil with grasses, accomplishing weed control, and then coming back to plant live, containerized woody species in copses has been the most cost effective method for establishing the woody species component of the plant community. For sites where soil disturbance will be temporary, grasses should be drilled after construction activities cease and the equipment removed from the site. After two years of controlling weeds (with herbicides) and allowing the grasses to become established, forbs and woody species should be inter -seeded or hand -planted to increase the diversity and value of the reclamation plantings. WestWater Engineering Page 12 of 15 pages July 2008 • • 5.0 REFERENCES Barrow, J. R., and Bobby D. McCaslin. 1995. Role of microbes in resource management m arid ecosystems. In: Barrow, J. R., E. D. McArthur, R. E. Sosebee, and Tausch, R. J., comps. 1996. Proceedings: shrubland ecosystem dynamics in a changing environment. General Technical Report, INT -GTR -338, Ogden, Utah: U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service, Intermountain Resource Station, 275 pp. Boerboom, C. 1999. Herbicide mode of action reference. Weed Science, University of Wisconsin, 5 pp. CNHP. 1998. Native Plant Re -vegetation Guide for Colorado. Colorado Natural Heritage Program, Caring for the Land Series, Vol. III, State of Colorado, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, Department of Natural Resources, Denver, 258 pp. CWMA. 2007. S. Anthony, T. D'Amato, A. Doran, S. Elzinga, J. Powell, I. Schonle, K. Uhing. Noxious Weeds of Colorado, Ninth Edition. Colorado Weed Management Association, Centennial. Garfield County. 2002. Garfield County Vegetation Management and Garfield County Weed Advisory Board. Garfield County Noxious Weed Management Plan, Resolution #2002- 94, October 21. Hartzler, Bob. 2006. Biennial Thistles of Iowa. ISU Extension Agronomy. URL: http://www.weeds.iastate.edu/mgmt/2006/iowathistles.shunl Kershaw, L., A. MacKinnon, and J. Pojar. 1998. Plants of the Rocky Mountains. Lone Pine Publishing, Auburn, Washington. NRCS. 2008. Web Soil Survey, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service, URL: http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov Sirota, J. 2004. Best management practices for noxious weeds of Mesa County. Colorado State University Cooperative Extension Tri River Area, Grand Junction, Colorado. URL: http://www.coopext.colostate.eduaRA/Weedsiweedmgmt.html State of Colorado. 2005. Rules pertaining to the administration and enforcement of the Colorado Noxious Weed Act, 35-5-1-119, C.R.S. 2003. Department of Agriculture, Plant Industry Division, Denver, 78 pp. Sullivan, Preston, G. 2004. Thistle control alternatives. Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas, National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service, Fayetteville, Arkansas, 9 pp. Tamarisk Coalition. 2007. Grand Junction, Colorado, URL: http://www.tamariskcoalition.orgitamariskcoalitioniindex.php WestWater Engineering Page 13 of 15 pages July 2008 • • • Tischler, Crystal. 2006. District Forester, Colorado State Forest Service, Salida, Colorado. Personal communication with Bill Clark, WestWater Engineering, Grand Junction, Colorado. Weber, William A., and Ronald C. Wittmann. 2001. Colorado Flora, Western Slope. Third Edition, University Press of Colorado, Boulder. Whitson, T. D. (editor), L. C. Burrill, S. A. Dewey, D. W. Cudney, B. E. Nelson, R. D. Lee, and R. Parker. 2001. Weeds of the West — 9th edition. Western Society of Weed Science in cooperation with Cooperative Extension Services, University of Wyoming, Laramie. WestWater Engineering Page 14 of 15 pages July 2008 • • x fl • • APPENDIX A Garfield County Noxious Weed List • Species Common name Species Code Growth Form' Life History2 State "A" List State "B" List State "0" List Garfield List Acroptilon repens Russian knapweed ACRh. F P X X Aegilops cylindnca Jointed goatgrass j AECY G A X X Arctiurn minus Common (Lesser) burdock ` ARMI2 F B X X Cardaria draba Hoary cress, Whitetop _ CARR F P X X Carduus acanthoides Spiny plumeless thistle CAAC F B. WA X X Carduus nutans Musk (Nodding plumeless) thistle J CANU4 F B X X Certtaurea diffusa Diffuse knapweed CEDI3 I F _ P X X Centaurea a Spotted knapweed CEMA4 a F P X X Yellow starthistle CESO F A X X Chrysanthemum leucanthernum Oxeye daisy CHLE_ft F A P X X Cichorium intybus Chicory CIIN F P X X Cis -slum arvense Canada thistle CIAR4 F P X X Cynoglossum officinale Houndstongue, Gypsyflower CYOF F B X X Elaeagnus anguslifolia Russian olive _ ELAN T P X X Euphorbia esula Leafy spurge EUES F P _ X X Linaria dalmatica Dalmatian toadflax, broad-leaved LIDA F P _ X X Linaria vulgaris Yellow toadflax LIVU2 F P X X Lythrum salicaria Purple loosestrife LYSA2 F P X X Onopordum acanthium Scotch thistle ONAC F B X X Tamarix parvrflora Smallflower tamarisk TAPA4 T P X I x Tamarix ramosissima Salt cedar, Tamarisk TARA T s P X li X 1 — Growth form 7 = tree/shrub, F fart/vine. G = graminoid 2 — Life history A = annual: B = hienntal, P = perennial, WA = winter annual WestWater Engineering Appendix A July 2008 APPENDIX B Noxious Weed Location UTMs (Garfield County listed weeds in bold) Weed UTM Easting NorthingUTM Comments Tamarisk 747274 4364682 Tamarisk found throughout Smith Gulch 746509 4365575 746925 4364763 747047 4364263 747606 4364849 747645 4364805 747457 4364959 747611 4364771 747556 4364804 746884 . 4364898 Halogeton 747299 4364738 747292 4364754 747211 4364878 747334 4364878 748265 4365265 Russian knapweed 747626 4364900 Chicory 747609 4364867 Diffuse knapweed 748596 4365390 748308 4365241 Bull thistle 747585 4364842 Canada thistle See map Diffuse knapweed 748596 4365390 748308 4365241 WestWater Engineering Appendix B July 2008 • APPENDIX C Photos Photo 2. Area view of project location Photo 3. Location of proposed compressor pad site WestWater Engineering Appendix C - Page 1 • APPENDIX C Photos WestWater Engineering Photo 4. View of project location Appendix C - Page 2 July 2008 t • Williarns. Storm Water Management Plan HOOVER EXPRESS PROJECT Pipeline and Compressor Station June, 2008 • Storm Water Management Plan Hoover Express Project Garfield County, Colorado Prepared for: Williams Production RMT Company 1058 County Road 215 Parachute, CO 81635 June, 2008 • • TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1 1.1 Stormwater Runoff Permitting Requirements 1 2.0 CONSTRUCTION SITE DESCRIPTION 2 2.1 Site Location 2 2.2 Site Area Characteristics 2 2.2.1 Runoff Characteristics 2 2.3 Schedule of Construction Activities 3 3.0 Potential Pollution Sources 4 4.0 DESCRIPTION OF SOIL CONTROL MEASURES 5 4,1 Structural Practices for Erosion and Sediment Control 5 4.1.1 Straw Bale and Rock Check Dams 5 4.1.2 Straw Wattles/Straw Rolls 5 4.1.3 Road Bar Ditches 6 4.1.4 Culvert Inlet/Outlet Protection 6 4.1.5 Sediment Basins 6 4.2 Non -Structural Practices for Erosion and Sediment Control 6 4.2.1 Vegetative Buffers 6 4.2.2 Seeding of Disturbed Areas 6 4.2.3 Mulching 7 4.2.4 Erosion Control Blankets 7 • 5.0 PHASED BMP IMPLEMENTATION 8 5.1 Construction 8 5.2 Interim Reclamation 8 5.3 Final Stabilization 9 6.0 MATERIALS HANDLING AND SPILL PREVENTION 10 6.1 Waste Management and Disposal 10 6.2 Fuels and Materials Management 10 6.3 Construction Site Housekeeping 11 7.0 DEDICATED CONCRETE OR ASPHALT BA"1`CI1 PLAN I'S 12 8.0 VEHICLE TRACKING CONTROL 13 9.0 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES 14 10.0 NON-STORMWATER DISCHARGES .. 16 11.0 CERTIFICATIONS 17 11.1 Owner/Applicant Certification 17 11.2 Stormwater Management Plan Administrator 18 12.0 Additional BMP Reference 19 • Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D Appendix E Tablet LIST OF APPENDICES Site Maps Stormwater Application Form and Permit Stormwater Inspection Form BMP Descriptions and Installation Details Project Seed Mixes Site Descriptions Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. 1.0 INTRODUCTION This Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) is written to comply with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment's (CDPHE) General Permit No. COR -03000 issued on May 31, 2007 and will expire on June 30, 2012, and related U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) storm water regulations. This SWMP addresses construction activities associated with the construction of the Williams Hoover Express 12" natural Gas Pipeline (Pipeline) and the Hoover Express Compressor Station (Compressor Station). This SMWP is intended to be periodically updated as needed to address planned developments, new disturbances, and other changes needed to manage storm water and protect surface water quality. This SWMP is written to contain general storm water management practices, as well as site specific information related to specific construction activities. Site specific information (i.e. Phased BMP Implementation, Potential Pollution Sources, Final Stabilization Measures, etc.) found throughout the text of this document is also referenced in Table 1. 1.1 Storm Water Runoff Permitting Requirements The Federal Clean Water Act [Section 402(p)] requires that discharges of pollutants to waters of the United States from any point source be regulated by NPDES permits. In November 1990. the USEPA published final regulations that established application requirements for storm water associated with construction activity for soil disturbances of 5 acres or more be regulated as an industrial activity and covered by an NPDES permit. In December 1999, the USEPA published final Phase 11 NPDES regulations that established application requirements for storm water associated with construction activity for soil disturbances to be regulated as an industrial activity and covered by an NPDES permit. These regulations became effective July 1, 2002. Storm water construction permits are required for oil and gas activities that disturb 1 or more acres during the life of the project, or are part of a larger common plan of development. CDPHE considers a common plan of oil and gas development to mean development of several well pads, access roads, pipelines, and/or other related infrastructure in a contiguous area either during the same time period or under a consistent plan for long-term development. Williams will be in charge of all aspects of this project. Contractor(s) will do the actual construction and grading but all work will be supervised by Williams and all decisions will be made by Williams. 1 Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. 2.0 CONSTRUCTION SITE DESCRIPTION 2.1 Site Location Pipeline: The Pipeline begins within Section 27 and crosses Sections 28, 33, and 32 of Township 7 South, Range 96 West of the 6th PM, Garfield County, Colorado. The project will consist of approximately 1.37 miles of pipeline Right -of -Way (ROW), The ROW will average approximately 75 feet in width during construction, and 50 feet permanent ROW post construction, resulting in approximately 12.5 acres of land disturbance. The Town of Parachute, Colorado is the nearest population center. Receiving waters include several unnamed, ephemeral drainages and the Colorado River. The ultimate receiving water is the Colorado River. Refer to Appendix A for the Site Map and disturbed area boundaries. Compressor Station: The compressor station will be constructed within Section 32 of Township 7 South, Range 96 West of the 6th PM, in Garfield County, Colorado. Activities associated with the construction of the Hoover Express Compressor Station will result in approximately 4.9 acres of land disturbance. Refer to Appendix A for the Site Map and cut and fill locations. 2.2 Site Area Characteristics 2.2.1 Runoff Characteristics and Coefficient Runoff characteristics are based on site topography, soil type, and soil/vegetative cover. Drainage across the pipeline will vary along the length of the pipeline. According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS), the soil along the length of the Project consists of five general soil units. • Arvada Loam (6-20 percent slopes): Slow permeability with a high water holding capacity • Torriothents-Camborthids-Rock outcrop complex (12-45 percent slopes): Slow permeability with a high water holding capacity The preconstruction vegetation consists of the sagebrush (Artemisia, .gip), rubber rabbitbrush (Chrysatharnnus nauseosus), shadscale saltbrush (Atriplex conferiifolia), and Indian ricegrass (Oryzopsis, sp). Tamarisk (Tatnarix rarnosissira) and Cheatgrass (Bros nus teetarum) were species observed which are considered to be noxious and/or invasive exotic. The average pre -disturbance vegetative ground cover is estimated at 55%. 2 Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. 2.3 Schedule of Construction Activities Construction of the necessary improvements and construction of the Hoover Express Project is scheduled from August I, 2008 to TBD. Existing and future disturbances are included in this SWMP. BMPs will be installed prior to, during, and immediately following construction as practicable, with considerations given to construction staging, safety, access, and ground conditions at the time of construction. Soil and aggregate materials will be managed so that erosion and sediment transport are minimized. Nearby drainages and water courses will be protected in all cases by appropriate measures. !hover Express SWMP Williams Production. RMT Co. 3.0 POTENTIAL POLLUTION SOURCES Potential pollution sources associated with construction of the Hoover Express Project include: ▪ Sediment resulting from erosion of soil stockpiles and other areas cleared of vegetation • Leakage of fuels and lubricants from equipment and spills from fueling andlor compressor facilities • Trash and debris from clearing activities, construction materials, and workers • Sanitary sewage associated with portable toilets • Produced Water • Glycol • Condensate The most common source of pollution from pipeline construction is sediment, which can be carried away from the work site with storm water runoff, and ultimately impact the water quality of a receiving stream. Clearing. grading, and otherwise altering previously undisturbed land can increase the rate of soil erosion over pre -disturbance rates. Petroleum products can also be potential storm water pollutants. These products are used in construction activities to power or lubricate equipment and include: fuel, gear oil, hydraulic oil, brake fluid, and grease. Debris from lay -down areas, residue from equipment cleaning and maintenance, and solid waste generated from land clearing operations and human activity (trees, brush, paper, trash, etc.) present other potential pollution sources within the construction site. For site specific potential pollution sources, refer to Table 1. For locations of potential pollution sources, refer to Appendix A. No concrete washout activities are expected for the project. All BMPs implemented throughout the project are intended to mitigate for the release of sediment and all other potential pollution sources described above. and listed in Table 1. Refer to Appendix A for site specific locations of potential pollution sources. and locations of BMPs implemented to mitigate for the potential release of the respective potential pollutants. 4 Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. 4.0 DESCRIPTION OF SOIL CONTROL MEASURES The objective of erosion sediment controls is to minimize the release of sediments, and any other potential pollutants, by storm water runoff.. This can be accomplished through the use of structural and/or nonstructural controls. This section describes erosion and sediment controls to be used during the pipeline construction to minimize possible pollutant impacts to storm water runoff, Refer to Appendix D for implementation details of soil control measures. Refer to Appendix A for locations of soil control measures. 4.1 Structural Practices For Erosion and Sediment Control Structural practices implemented to provide for erosion and sediment control can include temporary and permanent Best Management Practices (BMPs). Temporary structural BMPs include, but are not limited to, straw bale barriers/check dams and straw fiber rolls/wattles. When applicable, temporary BMPs will be implemented during construction and interim reclamation phases. All temporary BMPs will be removed and disposed of upon Final Stabilization. Permanent structural BMPs include, but are not limited to earthen berms, drainage dips, bar ditches, sediment basins, culvert inlet/outlet protection, and rock check dams. 4.1.1 Straw Bale and Rock Check Dams Straw bale and rock check dams will be installed in areas of concentrated flow. The purpose of a check dam is to reduce the velocity of water enough to allow sediment to settle, while allowing the clean water to continue migrating. Some sediment will accumulate behind the check dam. Sediment should be removed from behind the check dams when it has accumulated to one-half ofthe original height of the darn and properly disposed of. Check dams will be inspected for erosion along the edges ofthe check dams and repaired as required immediately. For temporary ditches and swales, check dams should be removed and the ditch filled in when it is no longer needed. 4.1.2 Straw Wattles/Straw Rolls Straw rollslwattles are intended to capture and keep sediment on a disturbed slope. Straw rolls are useful to temporarily stabilize slopes by reducing soil creep and sheet and rill erosion until permanent vegetation can be established. Straw rolls will last an average of one to two years. The slope needs to be prepared before the rolls are placed. Small trenches are created across the slope on the contour. The trench should be deep enough to accommodate half the thickness of the roll (about 3"-5"). The trenches need to be 10 to 25 feet apart. The rolls need to be installed perpendicular to water movement, parallel to the slope contour. Start by installing rolls from the bottom of the slope. The rolls need to ft snugly against the soil. No gaps should be between the soil and roll. Willow, wooden stakes, or staples need to be driven through the roll and into the • Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. soil. There should only be 1 to 2 inches of stake exposed above the roll. The stakes should be installed every 4 feet. 4.1.3 Road Bar Ditches Bar ditches are permanent structural BMPs installed at the base of an access road crown. Bar ditches may be installed on one or both sides of the access road. depending on construction specifications of the road. Roadside bar ditches shall be constructed to conform to the respective road cross section. All bar ditches will be excavated to a minimum depth of 1 foot below the road surface. 4.1.4 Culvert Inlet/Outlet Protection Inlets and outlets of culverts will be protected to prevent sediment build up within the culvert, thus maintaining culvert functionality. Temporary protection. during construction, can be implemented by installing straw bales or straw wattles around the inlet/outlet. For permanent protection, inlets/outlets shall be protected via rock armoring. Sediment accumulated at the inlet/outlet shall be removed as needed to ensure that there will be no blockage of the culvert. 4.13 Sediment Basins Sediment basins are structural BMPs installed to trap sediment that has been transported from other BMPs including, but not limited to, berms, perimeter diversion ditches. bar ditches, and drainage dips. Size and shape of each sediment basin shall depend on the specific location and surrounding topography of each site. 4.2 Non -Structural Practices for Erosion and Sediment Control Non-structural practices implemented for erosion and sediment control will consist of permanent BMPs that will be utilized during all project phases, from construction to interim reclamation, and ultimately to final stabilization. Non-structural controls typically include, but are not limited to, vegetative buffers, mulching, seeding of disturbed areas, erosion control blankets, and surface roughening. 4.2.1 Vegetative Buffers Vegetative buffers are areas of existing vegetation stands that are utilized as a permanent BMP. Vegetative buffers are located on any or all edges ofa project boundary. They provide a filtering effect by minimizing velocity of storm water runof'enough to allow sediment to settle out, while along clean water to continue with its natural drainage route. 4.2.2 Seeding of Disturbed Areas 6 • Hoover Express SW'MP Williams Production RMT Co. Seeding of disturbed areas will be implemented as a measure taken to achieve final stabilization. Upon construction completion, all disturbed areas to undergo reclamation shall be seeded. As a disturbed area is seeded, it will remain in the interim reclamation phase until the site has reached a vegetative cover area of 70% of pre -disturbance conditions. At this point, the site will be at the final stabilization phase. Refer to Appendix E for the Project seed mixes and associate application rates. Seeding will be implemented via a rangeland drill seeder where accessible. In areas where the rangeland drill cannot access seed will be broadcasted and then raked or harrowed to provide adequate seed to soil contact. 4.2.3 Mulching Mulching is a non-structural BMP implemented to aid in seed establishment. After a disturbed area has been seeded, a certified, weed free straw mulch will be applied. Where accessible, the mulch will be crimped into the ground to provide additional soil stabilization. 4.2.4 Erosion Control Blankets Erosion control blankets are permanent, non-structural BMPs installed on steep slopes to provide soil stabilization and to keep seed in place. Erosion control blankets are a geotextile, biodegradable material that are implemented during the interim reclamation phase. Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co, 5.0 PHASED BMP IMPLEMENTATION The Hoover Express pipeline and compressor station construction project will consist of a construction phase, an interim reclamation phase, and a final stabilization phase. The following sections outline specifications of each phase. 5.1 Construction The construction phase of the project wilt consist of ROW clearing, pipeline construction. and backfilling/general grading. The following outlines the necessary steps of the construction phase: Pipeline: • Vegetation Clearing: Vegetation will be removed and placed in a windrow at the edge of the disturbed area ▪ Topsoil Stripping: Topsoil will be removed and stockpiled in a windrow at the edge of the disturbed area • Trench Excavation: The trench needed for pipeline installation is generally located near the center of the ROW and is created by track -mounted excavators. The trench will be excavated to a depth of 4-5 feet, with the soil being stockpiled via windrow at the up - gradient edge of the trench. • Pipe welding and placement: The pipe pieces will be laid beside the trench and welded. Long segments of welded pipe are placed within the trench by sideboom dozers. • Pipe bedding: Trench spoils will be handled by excavators equipped with bedding boxes. The bedding boxes remove larger rocks and the fine material is placed beside, and over, the pipe to prevent potential damage to the pipe. • Trench backfill: Bulldozers will move soil from the trench spoils windrow to backfill the trench. • General grading: lfgeneral grading was conducted to facilitate pipeline construction, these materials will be replaced and graded to recreate the pre -construction topography. Compressor Station • Vegetation Clearing: Vegetation will be cleared and placed at the edge of the disturbed area • Topsoil Stripping: Topsoil will be removed and stockpiled as to not to contribute to stormwater pollution. Refer to Appendix A for locations of topsoil stockpiles • General Grading: Grading will be conducted to facilitate facility construction 5.2 Interim Reclamation Interim reclamation will be the phase of the project between construction and final stabilization. A project will enter into interim reclamation when construction is completed, disturbed areas have been seeded, and permanent BMPs have been installed. Temporary BMPs that were implemented during the construction phase may continue to be maintained during interim reclamation. Projects will remain in interim reclamation until disturbed areas have been 8 Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. reclaimed to 70% of pre -disturbance conditions or otherwise permanently stabilized (i.e. graveled), The following steps will be taken to reach interim reclamation: • Topsoil placement: Topsoil will be moved and redistributed across the surface of the disturbed ROW. • Vegetative material replacement/removal: Based upon landowner requirements, stripped vegetation may be hauled off-site or redistributed along the disturbed ROW. • Seeding: The disturbed ROW will be seeded post construction. The seed mix will vary depending on location and surface ownership and will generally match the surrounding vegetation. Refer to Appendix E for seed mixes and their respective application rate(s). • Mulching: All disturbed areas to be reclaimed will be mulched post seeding. A certified weed free straw will be crimped into the ROW to keep an adequate moisture level in the seedbed. 5.3 Final Stabilization Areas which have been disturbed are considered to be stabilized when a uniform vegetative cover with a density of 70 percent of the pre -disturbance levels has been established, or when an equivalent permanent. physical erosion reduction method is in place. Disturbed areas will remain in interim reclamation status until final stabilization is achieved. Storm water compliance inspections will be performed at required intervals until final stabilization is reached. Any temporary BMPs will be removed and disposed of. When final stabilization is achieved and all temporarw control measures have been removed, Williams will apply for an Inactivation Notice to terminate the Hoover Express Project General Permit. 9 • Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. 6.0 MATERIALS HANDLING AND SPILL PREVENTION 6.1 Waste Management and Disposal The construction activities mentioned in this SWMP will generate various other waste materials during the course of construction. These wastes typically include, but are not limited to. the following; • Trees and shrubs from clearing operations • Trash and debris from construction materials and workers • Sanitary sewage from temporary sanitary waste facilities Each of these wastes will be managed so as to not contribute to storm water pollution. Trees and shrubs will be piled along the toe of fill slopes to provide additional sediment control. Construction trash and debris will be collected in appropriate containers and hauled off-site for disposal in suitable landfills. Sanitary waste will be contained in portable toilets or other storage tanks with waste materials regularly pumped and transported off-site for proper disposal at approved facilities. 6.2 Fuels and Materials Management Petroleum Products Petroleum products which may be present at the construction site include: gasoline, diesel fuel, lubricant oils, hydraulic oils, used oils, and solvents. Gasoline and diesel fuel will be stored in portable storage tanks with secondary containment. Lubricant, hydraulic, and miscellaneous oils and solvents will be stored in containers up to 55 -gallons in volume. Pollutants from petroleum products used during construction activities adhere easily to soil particles and other surfaces. In case of a spill or leak, soils contaminated with petroleum products will be contained and removed to a proper disposal site. Proposed soil erosion and sediment control practices will aid in retention of spills or leaks. Use of secondary containment and drip pans will reduce the likelihood of spills or leaks contacting the ground. Proposed maintenance and safe storage practices will reduce the chance of petroleum products contaminating the road site. Oily wastes such as crankcase oil, cans, rags, and paper containing oils will be placed in proper receptacles and disposed of or recycled. An additional source of petroleum contamination is leaks from equipment and vehicles. Routine daily inspections will be conducted to identify leaks and initiate corrective actions, if needed. The following guidelines for storing petroleum products will be applied. • All product containers will be clearly and properly Iabeled. • Drums will be kept off the ground within secondary containment and stored under cover when necessary. • Fuel tanks will be stored within areas containing secondary containment. • Lids of drummed materials will be securely fastened. 10 • Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. • Emergency spill response procedures will be available on-site. Persons trained in handling spills will be on call at all times. • Spill clean up and containment materials (absorbent. shovels, etc.) will be readily available. Spills will be immediately cleaned up and contaminated materials will be properly stored on site until they can be disposed of in accordance with applicable regulations. • Storage areas and containers will be regularly monitored for leaks and repaired or replaced as necessary. Construction personnel should be informed about proper storage and handling of materials during weekly subcontractor or safety meetings. Other Chemical Product Manat ement Various additional materials will be used and stored on site for use in construction. These materials will be stored appropriately and managed to minimize spills and leaks. Storage areas will be regularly inspected, and any minor spills or leaks will be cleaned up immediately. Materials Management The construction contractor will maintain a lay -down or staging area for equipment and materials storage on site. These areas will be maintained with good housekeeping and will be inspected on a regular basis for spills, leaks, and potential contamination. 63 Construction Site Housekeeping Housekeeping will consist of neat and orderly storage of materials and containerized fluids. Wastes will be temporarily stored in sealed containers and regularly collected and disposed of at appropriate off-site facilities. In the event that a spill occurs, prompt cleanup is required to minimize any commingling of waste materials with storm water runoff. Routine maintenance will be limited to fueling and lubrication of equipment. Drip pans will be used during routine fueling and maintenance to contain spills or Teaks. Any waste product from maintenance will be containerized and transported off site for disposal or recycling. There will be no major equipment overhauls conducted on site. Equipment will be transported offsite when major overhauls are necessary. Cleanup of trash and discarded materials will be conducted at the end of each work day. Cleanup will consist of patrolling the road way, access areas, and other work areas to pickup trash, scrap debris, other discarded materials, along with any contaminated soil. Upon collection, these waste materials will be disposed of properly. • • • 7.0 DEDICATED CONCRETE OR ASPHALT BATCH PLANTS Not applicable to the Hoover Express construction project. 12 Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. • • Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. 8.0 VEHICLE TRACKING CONTROL No vehicle tracking pads will be required during the Hoover Express construction project. 13 • • Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. 9.0 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES To meet requirements of the General Permit, inspection and maintenance of erosion and sediment controls must occur during the project. Continued inspection and maintenance is required for specific structures after construction is completed. The inspection program will include the following: 1. A qualified person familiar with the SWMP and control measures will conduct the inspections. 2. Inspections will cover the following items within construction site: • Disturbed areas without stabilization • All structural and non-structural BMPs (temporary and permanent) • Material storage areas • Surface water diversions • Down gradient areas • New access roads • Site vehicle entrance/exit locations. Inspections will occur at least once every 14 calendar days (during construction) and after a significant precipitation event, or snow melt event that causes potential for erosion. Once all measures have been taken to reach interim reclamation, inspections shall occur once every 30 calendar days. 4. A log of inspections will be maintained. 5. Water quality will be visually assessed for all receiving streams and discharge areas during each inspection. 6. Disturbed areas and material storage areas that are exposed to precipitation will be inspected for evidence of pollutants entering nearby drainages. 7. Roads used for vehicle access will be inspected for evidence of off-site sediment transport. 8. Following each inspection, the SWMP will be modified as necessary to include additional controls designed to correct identified problems. Necessary revisions to the SWMP will be made within 7 days of the inspection. 9. An inspection report summarizing the scope of the inspection, the name of the person conducting the inspection, the date of the inspection, and observations relating to proper implementation will be prepared. Inspection reports will be retained for at least 3 years from the date that the site is finally stabilized. 10. Actions taken to modify any storm water control measure will be recorded and maintained with the SWMP. 11. If no deficiencies are found during the inspection, the report will contain certification that the site is in compliance with the SWMP. `laintenance Procedures Maintenance will include prompt repairs and/or adjustments to any erosion and sediment control structures that are deteriorating or found to be performing inadequately. BMP conditions and dates of BMP maintenance will be documented within the storm water inspection checklists. Repairs are to be made as soon as possible and prior to the next anticipated storm event. 14 • Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. Williams or a designated contractor(s) will maintain on-site all materials necessary to make any reasonably expected repairs such as silt fence, straw bales, and stakes. Inspection Forms Inspection forms shall be a part of this SWMP and with include information such as dates of maintenance/modifications of existing BMPs, installation of new BMPs. any site housekeeping requirements, and general comments. Refer to Appendix C for an example of the storm water inspection document. 15 Hoover Express S W MP Williams Production RMT {Co, 10.0 NON-STORMWATER DISCHARGES No allowable sources of non -storm water discharges are anticipated from the project. Some possible exceptions include. but are not limited to, fire preventionlsuppression or dust control activities. Hoover Express SWNLP Williams Production RMT Co. 1100 CERTIFICATIONS 11.1 Owner/Applicant Certification certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gather and evaluate the information submitted. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or those persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the information submitted is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete. 1 am aware that there are significant penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment for knowing violations. Signature: Name: Title: Date: Operator Name and Address: Williams Production RMT Company 1058 County Road 215 Parachute, CO 81635 Site Name and Location: SWMP Prepared by: • Hoover Express Project Township 7 Range 96 West Garfield County, Colorado 1-IRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. 216 North Avenue, Suite #1 Grand Junction, CO 81501 Phone: 970.243.3271 17 • • Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. 11.2 STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN ADMINISTRATOR The SWMP Administrator is responsible for developing, implementing. maintaining. and revising the SWMP. This individual is responsible for the accuracy, completeness, and implementation of the SWMP. SWMP Administrator Certification 1 certify under penalty of law that I understand the terms and conditions of the SWMP and associated CDPS General Permit that authorizes storm water discharges associated with industrial activity from the construction sites identified as part of this certification. Signature: Name: Title: SWMP Administrator Date: Representing: Company: Williams Production RMT Company Address: 1058 County Road 215 Address: Parachute. CO 81635 Phone: 970.285.9377 • • • Hoover Express SWMP Williams Production RMT Co. 12.0 ADDITIONAL BMP REFERENCES The structural and non-structural BMPs listed in this SWMP are intended to include all BMPs that may be used for gas gathering projects. However, there may be situations where a 8MP is needed but not included in this SWMP, or project personnel may need additional information on the installation, use, specifications, and/or maintenance of BMPs. Additional information regarding various BMPs is available by referencing the following: • For oil and gas operations, the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service have developed 'Surface Operating Standards and Guidelines for Oil and Gas Exploration and Development," "Gold Book." The most recent version (fourth edition) of this is available on the Internet at: http://www.blm.aov./bnip/GoldBook Drat v l 2.pdf. • For Construction BMPs the Urban Drainage and Flood Control. District, a Colorado Front Range group of city and county agencies has developed a BMP manual that is available on the internet at: http://swcc.state.al.us/pdf/ASWC ,lune 2003 Alabama Handbook ConstructionE&S C f ontrol.pdr • For construction BMPs and surface stabilization methods, the Alabama Soil and Water Conservation Committee have developed "Erosion Control, Sediment Control and Storm Water Management on Construction Sites and Urban Areas, Volume 1 Developing Plans and Designing Best Management Practices." This information is available on the internet at: httn://w vww.blm.gov/bmp/field%20guide.htm For access roads, the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management have developed "Low -Volume Roads Engineering. Best Management Practices Field Guide," which is available online at: http://www.blm.gov/bmp/field%2Oguide.htm 19 • APPENDIX A SITE MAPS • APPENDIX B STORM WATER APPLICATION FORM AND PERMIT • APPENDIX C STORM WATER INSPECTION FORM • Acres Disturbed Acres Subject to Interim Reclamation Acres Restored Site Type Permit Name Permit Date Proposed Start Date Project Name Project ID Unique ID Field Name Williams Storm Water Inspection Checklist Latitude Longitude Township Range Section Description 2 Inspection Date Inspector Inspection Type Comments Comment 1 Distance to Receiving Water Name of Receiving Water(s) Type Estimated Runoff Coefficient Comment 1 Best Manaeement Practices B M P Type Maintenance Required Date Maintenance Completed Comment 1 2 3 4 5 6 - 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 • 19 # of Separators Freeboard in Secondary Containment Storm Water in Secondary Containment Comment 20 N/A N/A N/A None 21 22 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 Processing Eauinment # of Tanks # of Separators Freeboard in Secondary Containment Storm Water in Secondary Containment Comment N/A N/A N/A N/A None Secondary Wells On Site None None None None None None None None None None Other Eauinment Type of Equipment Comment None None None None None None Spills or Leaks Materials Handling • • • Housekeeping/Site Trash Veeetation Seed Mix Date Planted 70% Revegetated Comment TBD TBD TBD TBD Files Type of File Location Site Complies With Storm Water Standards (Yes or No) Comments: APPENDIX D BMP DESCRIPTIONS AND INSTALLATION DETAILS • • • Straw Bale Barrier Description and Purpose A straw bale barrier is a series of straw bales placed on a level contour to intercept sheet flows. Straw bale barriers pond sheet- flow runoff, allowing sediment to settle out. Implementation A straw bale barrier consists of a row of straw bales placed on a level contour, When appropriately placed, a straw bale barrier intercepts and slows sheet Flow runoff, causing temporary ponding. The temporary ponding provides quiescent conditions allowing sediment to settle. Straw bale barriers also interrupt the slope length and thereby reduce erosion by reducing the tendency of sheet flows to concentrate into rivulets, which erode rills, and ultimately gullies, into disturbed, sloped soils. Straw bale barriers have not been as effective as expected due to improper use. These barriers have been placed in streams and drainage ways where runoff volumes and velocities have caused the barriers to wash out. In addition, failure to stake and entrench the straw bale has allowed undercutting and end flow. Use of straw bale barriers in accordance with this BMP should produce acceptable results. Materials • Straw Bale Size: Each straw bale should be a minimum of 14 in. wide, 18 in. in height, 36 in. in length and should have a minimum mass of 50 lbs. The straw bale should be composed entirely of vegetative matter, except for the binding material. • Bale Bindings: Bales should be bound by steel wire, nylon or polypropylene string placed horizontally. Jute and cotton binding should not be used. Baling wire should be a minimum diameter of I4 -gauge. Nylon or polypropylene string should be approximately 12 -gauge in diameter with a breaking strength of 80 lbs force. • Stakes: Wood stakes should be commercial quality lumber of the size and shape shown on the plans. Each stake should be free from decay, splits or cracks longer than the thickness of the stake, or other defects that would weaken the stakes and cause the stakes to be structurally unsuitable. Steel bar reinforcement should be equal to a #4 designation or greater. End protection should be provided for any exposed bar reinforcement. • • Check Darns Description and Purpose A check dam is a small barrier constructed of rock, gravel bags, sandbags, straw bales, fiber rolls, or reusable products, placed across a constructed swale or drainage ditch. Check dams reduce the effective scope of the channel, thereby reducing the velocity of flowing water, allowing sediment to settle and reducing erosion. Implementation General Check dams reduce the effective slope and create small pools in swales and ditches that drain 10 acres or less. Reduced slopes reduce the velocity of storm water flows, thus reducing erosion of the swale or ditch and promoting sedimentation. Use of check dams for sedimentation will likely result in little net removal of sediment because of the small detention time and probable scour during longer storms. Using a series of check dams will generally increase their effectiveness. A sediment trap may be placed immediately upstream of the check dam to increase sediment removal efficiency. ,design and Layout Check dams work by decreasing the effective slope in ditches and swales. An important consequence of the reduced slope is a reduction in capacity of the ditch or swale. This reduction in capacity must be considered when using this BMP, as reduced capacity can result in overtopping of the ditch or swale and resultant consequences. In some cases, such as a "permanent" ditch or swale being constructed early and used as a "temporary" conveyance for construction flows, the ditch or swale may have sufficient capacity such that the temporary reduction in capacity due to check darns is acceptable. When check dams reduce capacities beyond acceptable limits, there are several options: • Don't use check darns. Consider alternative BMPs. • Increase the size of the ditch or swale to restore capacity. Maximum slope and velocity reduction is achieved when the toe of the upstream dam is at the same elevation as the top of the downstream dam. The center section of the dam should be lower than the edge sections so that the check dam will direct flows to the center of the ditch or Swale. Check dams are usually constructed of rock, gravel bags, sandbags, and fiber rolls. A number of products manufactured specifically for use as check dams are also being used, and some of these products can be removed and reused. Check dams can also be constructed of logs or lumber, and have the advantage ofa longer lifespan when compared to gravel bags, sandbags, and fiber rolls. Straw bales can also be used for check dams and can work if correctly installed: but in practice,. straw bale check dams have a high failure 40 rate. Check dams should not be constructed from straw bales or silt fences. since concentrated flows quickly wash out these materials. Rock check dams are usually constructed of 8 to 12 in. rock. The rock is placed either by hand or mechanically, but never just dumped into the channel. The dam must completely span the ditch or swale to prevent washout. The rock used must be large enough to stay in place given the expected design flow through the channel. Log check dams are usually constructed of 4 to 6 in. diameter logs. The logs should be embedded into the soil at least 18 in. Logs can be bolted or wired to vertical support logs that have been driven or buried into the soil. Gravel bag and sandbag check dams are constructed by stacking bags across the ditch or swale, shaped as shown in the drawings at the end of this fact sheet. Manufactured products should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. If grass is planted to stabilize the ditch or swale, the check dam should be removed when the grass has matured (unless the slope of the swales is greater than 4%). The following guidance should be followed for the design and layout of check dams: • Install the first check dam approximately 16 ft from the outfall device and at regular intervals based on slope gradient and soil type. • Check darns should be placed at a distance and height to allow small pools to form between each check dam. • Backwater from a downstream check darn should reach the toes of the upstream check dam. • A sediment trap provided immediately upstream of the check dam will help capture sediment. Due to the potential for this sediment to be re -suspended in subsequent storms, the sediment trap must be cleaned following each storm event. • High flows (typically a 2 -year storm or larger) should safely flow over the check dam without an increase in upstream flooding or damage to the check dam. • Where grass is used to line ditches, check dams should be removed when grass has matured sufficiently to protect the ditch or swale. • Gravel bags may be used as check dams with the following specifications: Materials Gravel bags used for check dams should conform to the requirements of gravel bag berms. Sandbags used for check dams should conform to sandbag barrier guidelines. Fiber roils used for check dams should conform to fiber roll requirements. Straw bales used for check dams should conform to straw bale barrier requirements. • Fiber Rolls • Description and Purpose A fiber roll consists of straw, flax, or other similar materials bound into a tight tubular roll. When fiber rolls are placed at the toe and on the face of slopes, they intercept runoff, reduce its flow velocity, release the runoff as sheet flow, and provide removal of sediment from the runoff. By interrupting the length of a slope, fiber rolls can also reduce erosion. Implementation Fiber Roll Materials • Fiber rolls should be either prefabricated rolls or rolled tubes of erosion control blanket. 4111 Assembly of Field Rolled Fiber Roll • Roll length of erosion control blanket into a tube of minimum 8 in. diameter. • Bind roll at each end and every 4 ft along length of roll with jute -type twine. Installation • Locate fiber rolls on level contours spaced as follows: o Slope inclination of 4:1 (H:V) or flatter: Fiber rolls should be placed at a maximum interval of 20 ft. o Slope inclination between 4:1 and 2:1 (14:V): Fiber Rolls should be placed at a maximum interval of 15 It. (a closer spacing is more effective). cs Slope inclination 2:1 (H:V) or greater: Fiber Rolls should be placed at a maximum interval of 10 ft. (a closer spacing is more effective). • Turn the ends of the fiber roll up slope to prevent runoff from going around the roll. • Stake fiber rolls into a 2 to 4 in. deep trench with a width equal to the diameter of the fiber roll. o Drive stakes at the end of each fiber roll and spaced 4 ft maximum on center. o Use wood stakes with a nominal classification of 0.75 by 0.75 in. and minimum length of 24 in. • If more than one fiber roll is placed in a row, the rolls should be overlapped, not abutted. • • Culvert Inlet/Outlet Protection a. 1ot'maI metal Culvert installation using tipi'ap around the inlet and outlet of culverts. Also use geotertile (filter fabric) or gravel filter beneath the riprap for most installations. (-adapted frons Jiiscon.sin is Forestry Best Management Practice for Water Quality, 1495) Description and Purpose Culvert inlet/outlet protection typically consists of gravel riprap that act as energy dissipation features. thus allowing for the settling of sediments, while preventing piping form occurring at the inlet or outlet. Riprap should consist of small to medium gravels that layered to achieve uniform density. Inspection and Maintenance • Inspect BMPs prior to forecast rain, daily during extended rain events, after rain events, weekly during the rainy season, and at two-week intervals during the non -rainy season. • Repair or till any unnecessary gaps or holes in the inlet/outlet of culverts • • Erosion Control Blankets kwy upper ewe emitted ed lit MS of mukeherl flee errand riattirg rear rides seA ter ciP multhisa area 1' cor Fite Altsta: 11. MIN MUFTI emir, 4' sr nrrum mein opening eeriest rang rsr oh wise and carter of rettle Description and Purpose Made out of environmentally friendly, biodegradable material, erosion control blankets are installed on disturbed slopes that are requiring stability. They stabilize slopes, and provide for an increased water holding capacity, which ultimately increased the rate and establishment of desired vegetative cover. Implementation Erosion control blankets should installed smoothly on the surface of the soil, loose enough to allow for vegetation establishment. The blankets are to be in complete contact with the soil to prevent any tenting. The upslope end of the blanket should be buried in a trench with ideal dimensions of 6"x6". Where one blanket ends and another begins, there should be 4-6 inches of overlap. Inspection and Maintenance • Inspect blankets prior to forecast rain, daily during extended rain events, after rain events, weekly during the rainy season, and at two-week intervals during the non -rainy season. • Repair any unnecessary gaps or holes in the blankets. • Inspect to make sure that there is uniform contact with the soil. APPENDIX E PROJECT SEED MIXES • TABLE 1 SITE DESCRIPTIONS a. 0 I) co0 u Table 1 Site Descriptions k 0 0 \§151"a" k ƒk{2f w•- aiw-a£r..;!| E;\$f;7i• t)�!$);!\ IL . g Q . , . Distance Ma Receiving Waists Ogles) . \ $ \ uSIUM 00te4eNell 4 HP 0 } \k}` v.■ 2 Sediment ment tram sail distulflences, fuels from ieeemq equipment anti construction °mi noes ! .§§ /;2§■ fk/)7 a-!`` 0 8 |!i !I; -,§ } 0 ! § 2$ ■ kkk!| \kk(E ! 2i g. §) kk ! \kvi IA \ / 1t2cb0 0 e e ■4,.0 } () s REVISION SHEET 1 • Review Date Representative/Designee Printed Name Representative/Designee Signature Type of revision (e.g. SWMP text, site modification, etc.) SWMP Amended (YIN) 7/1/2008 John Sucher Initial SWMP Drafting N/A WILLIAMS PRODUCTION RMT HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR STATION SPCC PLAN In review of Federal Regulations found in 40 Code of Regulations Part 112 Oil Pollution Prevention', not withstanding exemption to the regulation, the EPA Regional Administrator may determine that all or part of this regulation (the requirement to develop and implement a SPCC Plan) applies to these facilities and the owner/operator of these facilities is required to develop and implement a SPCC Plan within six (6) months of such determination. Williams Production RMT understands and agrees to the need for a Spill Prevention Control & Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan. It is a common practice by the Oil & Gas Industry that these plans are prepared after the site has been constructed. Williams will assure that a site specific SPCC Plan will be prepared and submitted to all applicable agencies immediately following construction of the Hoover Express Compressor Station. • • WILDLIFE IMPACT AND SENSITIVE AREAS REPORT WILLIAMS RMT - SMITH GULCH COMPRESSOR AND PIPELINE GARFIELD COUNTY, COLORADO t olorado hookless cactus obscry ed on Williams Smith Gulch property Prepared for: Williams RMT Prepared by: WestWater Engineering 2570 Foresight Circle #1 Grand Junction, CO 81505 En coordination with: Wagon Wheel Consulting 111 E. 3rd St. Ste 213 Rifle, CO 81650 July 2008 • • • 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Project Description Williams Production RMT (Williams) has requested WestWater Engineering (WWE) to complete a "Wildlife Impact and Sensitive Areas Report" for a proposed "special use permit" in Garfield County, Colorado. Williams is seeking the special use permit to install a natural gas compressor station and connecting pipeline approximately 5.5 miles west of Parachute, Colorado. A portion of the pipeline will parallel the north frontage road that runs along 1-70. The proposed compressor site is located on private land owned by Williams in Section 32, Township 7 South, Range 96 West (Figure 1). The area is bordered by Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands on the north and west sides. Access to the project site is currently available via undeveloped 2 -track roads. The topography at the site varies from small, rolling hills to flat, gently sloped terrain. The project site vegetation is composed of sagebrush, greasewood, and a dense infestation of cheatgrass, particularly in the flatter terrain. Smith Gulch bisects the Williams property running from north to south. There are no perennial streams in the project area; however, a small ephemeral drainage is located immediately east of the compressor site. Elevations in the project area vary from 5,100 to 5,300 ft. The Colorado River is located about 0.8 -mile south of the project area, at its closest point. The primary use of the site and surrounding area is agriculture/rangeland, wildlife habitat, and. recent natural gas extraction/development. The project area is currently undeveloped with no existing homes, out -buildings or industrial structures. One historic earthen dam has been constructed to create a pond for watering livestock (Figure I). The proposed compressor site has been located in an area of previous disturbance, where some land leveling had occurred. 1.2 General Survey Information In preparation for developing the following report, WWE biologists performed field surveys and assessments of wildlife, wildlife habitats, and habitats for sensitive plant species on the proposed project area. WWE conducted the survey on June 30, July 1-2, 2008. The purpose of the surveys were to determine the wildlife and sensitive plant species that occupy the project area at varying periods during the year and that would potentially be impacted as a result of compressor/pipeline construction and operational activities. Factors considered include: 1) soil type and texture; 2) existing land management: 3) absence or presence of wildlife and plant species; 4) special designations by Federal and State wildlife agencies; and 5) the existing natural vegetation community. This report provides written documentation that describes survey findings as well as recommended mitigation measures to help offset potential impacts to wildlife and sensitive plants that occupy the project site and adjacent area. This assessment and mitigation plan meets the wildlife requirement of Garfield County Regulation 9.07.04 (10) (Board of County Commissioners 2006). WestWater Engineering Page 1 of 18 July 2008 • • Srrw4h Gsuic P Prn4n't Alen PARACHUTE Figt to 1 Williams RMT Smith Gulch Cornpressor & Pipeline Sensitive Areas Survey WestWater Engineering _ Legewt A Raptor Nesta 1 WestWater Engineering Page 2of18 July 2008 • • 2.0 LANDSCAPE SETTING 2.1 Vegetation Vegetation communities in the project area consist of pinon-juniper woodlands and low elevation shrublands; no irrigated agricultural lands occur (Photo 1). Piiion juniper woodlands are dominated by Wiwi pine (Pinus edulis) and Utah juniper (Juniperus utahensis) and are mixed with an understory of Wyoming sagebrush (Artemisia tridentate wyamingensis), basin big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata tridentata), forbs, and grasses. Vegetation along the drainages and drier, flat terrain consists of greasewood (Sarcabatus vermicualatus), rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus), sagebrush, and snakeweed (Guterizzia spp). In much of the project area, greasewood is the dominant vegetation with an understory of downy brome (Brnmus tectorum). The denuded landscape, visible in many areas, may have resulted from over -grazing of livestock or perhaps by fire. Photo 1. Proposed location of corepressor pad site 2.2 Soils Soil types and the vegetation supported vary with elevation and slope aspect. The slope aspects are generally to the south and west. Mapped soil types, as published by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), were reviewed to WestWater Engineering Page 3 of 18 July 2008 • • • determine the soil types and vegetation characteristics of the project site and surrounding property (NRCS 2008). Two soil types are found in the project area and include the following: 1. Arvada loam composes 100 percent of the soils at the compressor site. The slope varies from 6 to 20 percent and vegetation typically is composed of sagebrush, greasewood and wheatgrass. Surface runoff is moderately rapid and the erosion hazard is severe. 2. Torriorthents-Cambrothrids-Rock outcrop complex is the map unit complex located east and west of the compressor site. This broadly defined unit consists of exposed sandstone, shale bedrock and stony soils that are shallow to moderately deep. Slopes range from 15 to 70 percent. Native vegetation includes wheatgrass, bluegrass, Indian ricegrass, sagebrush and pifion juniper. 3.0 WILDLIFE AND PLANT SURVEYS 3.1 Background Information Descriptions of critical habitats for federally -Listed threatened, endangered and candidate fish and wildlife species were reviewed in the Federal. Register, U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Wildlife habitat (activities) maps, provided via the internet web by the Colorado Division of Wildlife's (CDOW) "Natural Diversity Information Source" (IDIS), were reviewed and incorporated into this report in reference to mule deer, elk and state - listed threatened, endangered and species of "special concern"(CROW 2008a). A list of Birds of Conservation Concern (BOCC) and their habitats for the Southern Rocky Mountain Region and the Colorado Plateau was reviewed. This list is published by the USFWS through a Memorandum of Understanding with the BLM and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), which places high conservation priorities for BOCC species (USFWS 2002), Not all of these BOCC species occur regularly in Colorado, some are present only as seasonal migrants. Of those known to breed in Colorado, only a portion are known or suspected to breed within the vicinity of the proposed compressor pad site and pipeline. Avian literature sources such as the "Birds of Western Colorado Plateau and Mesa Country" (Righter et al. 2004) and the "Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas" (Kingery 1998) were reviewed to determine the likelihood for species occurrence within the project area. Bird identification and taxonomic nomenclature are in accordance with that applied by the Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Project (Kingery 1998). The determination of the presence/absence of suitable habitat for Threatened, Endangered and "Sensitive Species" (TESS) plants was based on previous WWE observations of typical habitat occupied by BLM or USFS sensitive plants, the Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) Rare Plant FieldGuide (Spackman et al. 1997), and locations of species documented in the CNHP statewide database. 3.2 Survey Methods A preliminary review of the project area, using aerial photography maps, was conducted to familiarize personnel with vegetation types and terrain and as an aid to help determine the likelihood of the presence of threatened, endangered or sensitive wildlife and plant species. Field data including general project location, boundaries and reported features were verified WestWater Engineering Page 4 of 18 July 2008 • • and/or recorded with the aid of a handheld global positioning system instrument (GPS) utilizing NAD83/WGS84 map datum, with all coordinate locations based on the Universal. Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinate system within Zone 12S. WWE biologists physically surveyed the area to identify and locate wildlife species, wildlife sign (tracks, fecal droppings, and vegetation disturbance), vegetation communities and wildlife habitats. Vegetation types were determined through field identification of plants, aerial photography, and on -the -ground assessments of plant abundance. Identification of plant species was aided by using pertinent published field guides (Whitson et al. 2004, CWMA 2007, Kershaw et al. 1998). Visual searches for raptor and other bird species nests were focused on rock cliffs, pif on pine, Utah juniper, and Fremont cottonwood trees within a 0.25 mile distance from the proposed compressor pad site and the pipeline's centerline. Nest searches and bird identification were aided with the use of binoculars and song recognition, where needed. In addition to these visual and audio searching techniques, biologists used the recorded call play -back methodology described by P. Kennedy (Kennedy and Stahlecker 1993; the "Kennedy-Stahlecker-Rinker" method) as modified by R. Reynolds and others (1992) for the southwestern United States. WWE biologists used "Predation MP3 Game Caller" units and played the call of a Great Homed Owl or a Cooper's Hawk alarm call in an attempt to locate raptors who often respond to the presence and calls of other raptors. Photographs were taken of the general project location, surrounding vegetation and terrain, and specific biological findings (Appendix A; Photos 4 and 8). 4.0 RESULTS OF SURVEY 4.1 TESS Plant Species Special status species of plants that may be present in the project area, and their habitats, are listed in Tables 1 and 2 in three categories: 1) Federally Listed. Threatened or Endangered (1 species), 2) Federal Candidate Species (2 species), and 3) BLM Sensitive Species (4 species). Nomenclature and habitat descriptions are based on the CHNP literature (Spackman et al. 1997). Table 1. Potential Federally -listed Threatened, Endangered and Candidate plant species Scientific Name Common Name Status* Habitat Preference Pensternc�n debilis Parachute 1'ara pachu e C Endemic to Garfield County with only five known occurrences; sparsely vegetated, south facing, steep, white shale talus in the Mahogany Zone of the p Parachute Creek Member of the Green River Formation. Elevation: 7,800-9,000 ft Phacelia submatica Debeque phacelia C Chocolate -brown or Gray clay on Atwell Gulch and Shire members of the Wasatch Formation; sparsely vegetated steep slopes. Elevation: 4,700-6,200 ft Scleracnctus glaucus Colorado hookless cactus T Typically xeric and fine textured Quaternary and Tertiary alluvium soils overlain with cobbles and pebbles; cold desert shrub and pinion- umper communities along river benches, valley slopes, low ridges and rolling hills. E= Federal Endangered, T= Federal Threatened, C= Federal Candidate WestWater Engineering Page 5 of 18 July 2008 • • • Table 2. Potential BLM sensitive plant species Scientific Name Common Name Habitat Preference Astragalus dragatraetrs Debeque milkvetch Varicolored, fine textured, seleniferous, saline soils of the Wasatch formation -Atwell Gulch member. Elevation: 5,100-6,400 ft Astragalus natter itensis Naturita milkvetch Sandstone mesas, ledges, crevices and slopes in pinon-juniper woodlands. Elevation: 5,000-7,000 ft Cirsiittm perplexans Rocky Mountain thistle Barren clay outcrops derived from shales of the Mancos or Wasatch formations; open and disturbed sites in mixed shrubland and pit -ion -juniper woodland. Elevation: 5,000-8,000 ft Monello rhizomata Roan Cliffs blazingstar Steep eroding talus slopes of shale, Green River formation. Elevation: 5,800-9,000 ft Results: Colorado hookless cactus was observed at two separate sites that are located approximately 0.35 -mile west of the compressor site (Figure 1). The cacti are located along the crest of small ridges immediately west of Smith Gulch (Photo 2, Table 3). This species was not observed along the pipeline right-of-way (ROW) or within areas potentially disturbed by the compressor site. None of the other potential TESS plant species were observed during the biological survey. The terrain, soils and vegetation on the hillside east, north and west of the project area appears suitable for Debeque phacelia, Debeque milkvetch and Rocky Mountain thistle, but none were observed. The closest known sites for these species occur approximately 2.5 miles west of the project area. Suitable habitat for the other TESS plants listed in Tables 1 and 2 was not observed during this survey. Photo 2. Colorado hookless cactus found in the vicinity of the project area WestWater Engineering Page 6 of 18 July 2008 • • Table 3: Colorado hookless cactus UTM coordinates (Zone 128) Number of Plants Observed Easting Northing 1 746830 4364552 8 746918 4364277 4.2 Federal Listed Threatened, Endangered, Candidate Wildlife Species No federal listed threatened, endangered or candidate wildlife species are known to occupy the site of the proposed compressor station and pipeline alignment and, thus, none of these species will be affected as a result of the proposed project. However, all ephemeral washes potentially affected by construction drain into a section of the Colorado River that is designated critical habitat for the Federally endangered Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker (Maddux 1993). 4.3 State Listed Threatened, Endangered Special Concern Wildlife Species WWE biologists determined that three state listed threatened, endangered or special concern species may occur within the project area and are listed in Table 4 (CDOW 2008b). Table 4. Potential State -listed Threatened, Endangered and Special Concern wildlife species Scientific Name Common Name State Status Habitat Preference Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bald Eagle T Open Water — Lakes, Forested Wetlands, Shrub Dominated Wetlands, Grass/Forb Dominated Wetlands; occurs in Garfield County; common winter migrant along stream corridors, Elevation: 3,000 - 8,000 ft Falco peperegrines anatumPeregrine American falcon SC High sheer cliffs, typically overlooking open habitats including canyons and the Colorado River Valley. Elevation: 5,000 to 6,500 ft. Crotalus viridis cancolor Midget faded rattlesnake SC Occupies habitat below 6,000 ft, sagebrushlgreasewood shrubland and low density piron-juniper woodlands. Occurs in rock and open, flat terrain, often in sandstone breaklands. * E= State Endangered T= State Threatened, SC = Species of Concern During the survey, no state listed threatened or endangered wildlife species were observed within the project area of the proposed compressor station and pipeline alignment. An active (2008 nesting season) Bald Eagle nest is located along the north side of Colorado River about 1.8 miles from the compressor site. The Bald Eagle pair hatched two chicks during 2008 and at least one was known to have fledged. Bald Eagles are common winter residents on the Colorado River and utilize the cottonwood trees for night roosts, hunting perches and nesting. The Colorado River and adjacent mesas and drainages to the south are utilized as hunting areas by the Bald Eagles. The eagles may visit these areas in search of winter forage in the form of live prey and dead animal carcasses. WestWater Engineering Page 7 of 18 July 2008 • • • 4.4 Birds of Conservation Concern (BOCC) Raptors: Several raptor (birds of prey) species nest, reside, forage or pass through the general area of the pipeline project. Raptor species that are common to the area include Golden Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Cooper's Hawk, and Great Homed Owl. The Bald Eagle, a common winter migrant, is discussed in the above section. The pifion-juniper woodlands and sandstone bluffs existing in the project area are of sufficient height and density for tree and cliff nesting raptors. Raptor species that are listed as BOCC in the Southern Rockies and the Colorado Plateau, and which may occur in the project area, are listed in Table 4. In addition to the BOCC list, seven other species of raptors that could potentially be found nesting in the pipeline project area are also listed in Table 5. Table 5. Raptor species that may be present in the project arca Came Name Scientific Name BOCC Habitat & Breeding Records Cooper's Hawk Aecipiter cooperii N • Cottonwood riparian to spruce/fir forests, including piiionljuniper woodlands. Nests most frequently in pines and aspen. - - Red-tailed Hawk Buten jamaicensis N • Diverse habitats including grasslands, piiion-juniper woodlands and deciduous, coniferous and riparian forests. Nests in mature trees (especially cottonwood, aspen, and pines) and on cliffs and utility poles. Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos Y • Grasslands, shrublands, agricultural areas, pinon- juniper woodlands, and ponderosa forests. Prefers nest sites on cliffs and sometimes in trees in rugged areas. American Kestrel Falco sparverius ' N • Coniferous and deciduous forests and open terrain with suitable perches. Nests in cavities in trees, cliffs and buildings. Great Horned Owl Bubo virginianus N • Occupies diverse habitats including riparian, deciduous and coniferous forests with adjacent open terrain for hunting. Northern. Saw- whet Owl Aegolius acadicus •Mountain and foothills forest and canyon country. Significant use ofpinon-juniper woodland and Douglas -fir. Long-earedAsia Owl anis N • Occupies mixed shrublands. Nests and roost in sites in dense cottonwoods, willows, scrub oak, junipers, tamarisk and dense forest of mixed conifers and aspens. Red-tailed Hawk nesting activity was observed along the pipeline alignment in a sandstone cliff that overlooks 1-70 (Photo 3, Figure 1). The nest was active during the 2008 nesting season and a recently fledged chick was observed flying and perching around the nest site. Two adults were also observed during the survey in the vicinity of the nest site. Two inactive nest sites were identified near the east end of the proposed pipeline. Both of these nests were observed in WestWater Engineering Page 8 of 18 July 2008 • • sandstone bluffs. No nesting activity or inactive nests were observed in the pifion-juniper woodlands during the survey. Photo 3. Active Red-tailed Hawk nest in sandstone bluffs In this portion of Colorado, the raptor nesting season is generally considered to occur between mid-February and mid-August. Typically, owls and eagles are the first raptors to begin the annual nesting cycle followed by members of the Genus Accipiter, Buteo, Circus and Falco. Usually, by mid-August all young birds have fledged and left the nest. Location information regarding the Red-tailed Hawk nests observed during this survey is found in Table 6 and Figure 1 (Appendix A, Photos 6 and 7). Table +6. Raptor Nest Location, June -July 2008 Number Zone Ea sting Northing Photo Status RTHA-1 125 750920 4364546 Yes Active RTHA-2 12S 748634 4365500 Yes Inactive RTHA-3 125 748740 4365959 Yes Inactive WestWater Engineering Page 9 of 18 July 2008 • • • 4.5 Birds of Conservation Concern (BOCC) other than raptors In addition to raptors discussed above, WWE biologists surveyed the proposed pipeline route for the presence of sensitive or migratory BOCC that could potentially occur in the project area. BOCC habitat and nesting records, as described in the Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (Kingery 1998), Colorado Birds (Andrews and Righter 1992) and Birds of Western Colorado Plateau and Mesa Country (Righter et al. 2004) in the vicinity of the proposed compressor pad site and pipeline are summarized in Table 7. Table 7. BLM sensitive & migratory bird species that may be present in the project area Common Name Scientific Name Habitat & Breeding Records Pinyon Jay Gymnarhinus cyanorephalus • Puion-juniper woodlands; nests in pinions or junipers. • Confirmed breeder in Garfield County in the vicinity of the compressor site and pipeline. Black -throated Gray Warbler Dendroica nigrescens • Mature piiion juniper woodlands; nests on horizontal branches in Orion or juniper. • Confirmed breeder in. Garfield County in the vicinity of the compressor site and pipeline. Migratory songbirds typically begin to arrive in Colorado in late April with the majority arriving and initiating breeding activity during the month of May and June. The species most likely to nest in this project area include the Pinyon Jay and Black -throated Gray Warblers, which prefer mature pinion juniper woodlands for nesting. The primary suitable habitat for nesting occurs in the pii on juniper woodlands southeast of the well pad. Pinyon Jays were noted at one location on three occasions, but no nests were observed. However, the use in the area may have indicated nesting activity or perhaps the availability of high quality food sources. Black -throated Gray Warblers were not observed during the survey. 4.6 Terrestrial Species 4.6.1 American Elk and Mule Deer The proposed compressor site and the pipeline alignment lie within CDOW, Game Management Unit (GM1J) 31. In GMU 31, the project area is situated within mule deer and American elk overall range. Mule deer winter range and severe winter ranges is defined for the project area; however, no winter range features are defined for elk (Figure 2). CDOW defines "winter range" as "that part of the overall range where 90 percent of the individuals are located during the average five winters out of ten from the first heavy snowfall to spring green -up". CDOW defines a "winter concentration area" as "that part of the winter range where densities are at least 200 percent greater than the surrounding winter range density during the same period used to define winter range in the average five winters out of ten". "Severe winter range" is defined as "that part of the range of a species where 90 percent of the individuals are located when the annual snow pack is at its maximum and/or temperatures are at a minimum in the two worst winters out of ten." WestWater Engineering Page 10 of 18 July 2008 • • ! . ; .t . ..... Figure 2: Williams RMT Smith Gulch Compressor & Pipeline Mule Deer & Elk Habitat \NestWater Engineering n,ftwhowniai (-01,...11tvy Miles 7 Q4 uU (1 *441.. Wvitor .•bo, r I E1 W, q4uq I- I • S.4f4,1h. eo,,n4Mh n. mketIGkafin,. - Wesaater Engineering Page 11 of 18 July 2008 • • During the survey, mule deer and elk dropping and fresh tracks were observed in the area surveyed around the compressor site. A single yearling bull elk was observed in the pinon- juniper woodlands north of the compressor station (Appendix A, Photo 8). Observations indicate a small resident elk population currently exists in the area. Surface water is available from a small spring in Smith Gulch. Elk fecal pellet groups observed during biological surveys indicate elk use during the winter of 2007-2008. No population numbers are available, but estimates (WWE) are likely greater than 50 elk used the habitat during the winter months. The level of mule deer use appears to be lower than elk (Figure 2). No mule deer were observed during biological surveys conducted for this project. Mule deer rely on the existing sagebrush and shrubs above the snow for their primary food source, while elk rely primarily on available grasses for food. Adjacent areas of pinon pine and juniper woodlands and the broken, rocky terrain provide necessary escape, thermal, and loafing cover for deer and elk, particularly during the winter period. 4.6.2 Black Bear and Mountain Lion CDOW "NDIS" mapping shows the proposed pipeline to be within overall range for black bear and mountain lion. Due to the low elevation and summer conditions, the vegetation of the proposed project site does not provide adequate food sources for black bear to be routinely attracted to the area. It is unlikely that black bear travel through the surrounding area, even during periods of short natural food supplies when bear often move to lower elevations. Mountain lion typically follow migrating deer herds in search of deer as the primary food source. Mountain lion have large territories and are highly mobile as they search for food or new territories. Mountain lion prefer to hunt in rocky terrain near woodland habitats. These habitat. conditions occur within the project area. Mountain lion could travel through and hunt in these areas, especially when deer are present during the winter period. The project area is not mapped by CDOW as a potential mountain lion conflict area. 4.6.3 Small Mammals Compton small mammal species (small game, furbearers, non -game) include mountain cottontail, coyote, bobcat, and rock squirrel. Fringed myotis (bats) and spotted bat are two bat species of the area that are considered "sensitive" by the BLM and could possibly forage for airborne insects through the area of the project (Reid 2006). Roosting, breeding and hibernating habitats for bats in the form of small caves, crevices, and cliffs does occur near the project area; bats likely forage within the project area. 4.6.4 Other Bird Species The project areas' sagebrush-greasewood shrublands, pinon pine, Utah juniper, and understory grasses provide nesting and foraging habitats for various other migratory and non -migratory bird species, depending on the season of the year (Photos 4 and 5 of Appendix A). Bird species observed during the survey included House Finch, Black -billed Magpie, Common Raven, Mountain Bluebird, Mourning Dove, Brewer's Sparrow, Brewer's Blackbird, and Vesper Sparrow. The Mourning Dove is the most common game bird in the area (Righter et al. 2004) and likely nests in trees and ground settings throughout this area. It is unlikely that Wild Turkey occur in the project area, although turkey inhabit the riparian Colorado River corridor south of I- 70. The interstate (I-70) and dryland conditions limit the suitable habitat for turkey. WestWater Engineering Page 12 of 18 July 2008 • • 4.6.5 Reptiles Plateau striped whiptail, sagebrush lizard, side -blotched lizard, plateau lizard, collared lizard, and western rattlesnake are reptiles potentially occurring in the project area. Collared lizards were commonly observed in the lower Smith Gulch drainage area in greasewood shrublands. (Hammerson 1999). 4.7 Aquatic Species 4.7.1 Amphibians Due to the lack of water in the project area, it is unlikely that amphibians would find sufficient habitat to be supported in the area. Great Basin spadefoot is an amphibian species that could occur within the project area since it occurs in ephemeral pools of water in pifion-juniper woodland and sagebrush shrublands of the area (Hammerson 1999). This species breeds during summer periods in temporary pools in ravines and drainages that experience water flow after heavy rain events. 4.7.2 Fish Due to the lack of perennial water, no fish species will be directly affected by construction at the compressor site or along the pipeline alignment. 5.0 AFFECTS TO WILDLIFE 5.1 Wildlife Impact Assessment Construction of the compressor station will likely affect site-specific native vegetation and the suitability of wildlife habitat adjacent to the project site. The project and its ongoing activities will contribute; however, to the overall cumulative impacts to the wildlife populations of the area that are experiencing gradual habitat loss, fragmentation, alteration and displacement through. increased development. 5.1.1 Elk and Mule Deer Potential affects include the loss of winter range habitat at the construction site and loss of use of surrounding forage and cover due to human disturbance factors associated with the operation and maintenance of the facility. The human disturbance that will be associated with the operation of the compressor will indirectly cause some wildlife species to avoid the area, particularly periods of human activity, Noise generated by the compressor engines may affect wild ungulate species and the magnitude is dependent on the reaction of wildlife to the intensity of the noise. 5.1.2 Birds The affects to foraging and nesting habitat to a small number of bird species is expected to be minimal. The piiion juniper woodlands east of the compressor site are suitable for species that nest in this habitat type. The pipeline alignment effects are expected to be minimal and affect mainly shrubland plant habitat that may recover during reclamation. The potential exists for disturbance to raptor nesting along the pipeline alignment in the vicinity of the known nest sites. However, the Red-tailed Hawks nesting during 2008 appear to have adapted to disturbance associated with natural gas development and the heavy traffic on 1-70. WestWater Engineering Page 13 of 18 July 2008 • • • 5.13 Endangered Fish Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker critical habitat in the Colorado River in the project area potentially could be compromised by decreased water quality conditions. Recent recovery projects in Debeque Canyon, including fish passage structures, have allowed access to the upper Colorado River in the project area for the first time is approximately 100 years. Any increase in erosion runoff could negatively affect endangered fish recovery due to a decrease in water quality. 6.0 AFFECT TO FEDERALLY LISTED PLANT SPECIES The Colorado hookless cactus population found during biological surveys is located about 0.35 - miles west of the area of construction. A small ridge west of the compressor site will provide an added buffer of protection for these plants. No effects are expected on the cactus population from this project. 7.0 MITIGATION RECOMMENDATIONS The following recommendations for mitigation are presented for maintenance and improvement of wildlife habitat quality as well as for the prevention of human -caused wildlife affects. 7.1 Maintenance and Restoration of Habitat In the Rocky Mountain Region, sagebrush communities have declined over the years and continue to do so as a result of development and habitat conversion. In many areas, cheatgrass and other exotic grass invasion has limited the recovery of habitats by greatly reducing re- establishment of native species. The effects are realized through a competitive advantage that exotic plants have for water and nutrients. Cheatgrass invasion has dramatically affected the habitat in and around the project area on private lands under Williams ownership. Sagebrush is a key food source for wintering elk and mule deer in this project area and provides nesting and foraging habitat for a variety of migratory birds and small mammals. The minimally available residual grass understory of the current sagebrush, pinon juniper vegetation and adjacent meadows provides valuable forage for wintering elk.. Reclamation plans should include efforts to restore the sagebrush community. Reclamation recommendations include the following: 1. Native Wyoming should be considered and added to the re -vegetation plan of disturbed soils once grass/forb plantings have established themselves. Seed from the existing sagebrush vegetation should be used to create wildlife forage that has a mix of grasses, forbs and sagebrush. 2. Ongoing control of noxious and invasive weeds is recommended as an additional method to maintain native vegetation communities and favorable wildlife habitats. An "integrated Vegetation and Weed Management Plan" is provided for this project in a separate report. WestWater Engineering Page 14 of 18 July 2008 • 7.2 Planning for Sensitive Time Periods and Areas 7.2.1 Mule Deer and Elk Wintering mule deer and elk would benefit if construction and/or energy exploration) development activities avoided the critical time for these species, from December 1 to April 30. Energy industry activities are commonly limited during this time period on federal lands in the area in order to accommodate wintering mule deer and elk. Table 8 displays the most critical periods for deer and elk in the area of the project. Table 8. Seasonal critical periods for Smith Gulch compressor and pipeline project Concern Period - - Deer and Elk severe (critical) winter range December 1 - April 30 Migratory bird primary nesting season May 15 - August 1 Raptor nesting season February 1 - August 15 Installation of "hospital grade" compressor mufflers would reduce disturbance affects to wildlife including big game species. The design and angle of compressor engine exhaust pipes can affect the level of noise effects. In areas where compressors are located near the base of hillsides, vertically aligned exhaust pipes direct noise upwards, often into areas where deer and elk reside. Efforts should be made to design the Smith Gulch compressor exhaust system to direct noise towards I-70 where current levels are high and away from potential big game habitat north of the project area. 7.2.2 Migratory Birds Vegetation clearing activities, in relation to construction and development projects, would have Tess impact to migratory birds if conducted outside the primary nesting season of May 15 to August I (Table 8). 7.2.3 Raptors Activities associated with the proposed project have the potential to impact raptor populations. In order to reduce the potential for affects to nesting raptors, it will be important that the project proponent schedule construction activities such that they do not interfere with breeding, nesting and brood rearing activities (Table 8). CDOW `s (Craig 2002) recommended raptor nest site avoidance standards for the species observed in this survey are summarized below (Table 9). If the project cannot be completed prior to, or after, the next nesting season, the known nest should be re -inventoried by qualified biologists. If any birds are found behaving in a manner consistent with nesting, every effort should be made to apply the timing limitation and buffer distance stipulations. 7.3 Other Mitigation Practices 7.3.1 Erosion Control, Soil Stability and Water Quality Efforts to control soil erosion within the project area should be implemented. Disturbed soils within the project area are susceptible to erosion and downstream water quality could be negatively affected by increased soil erosion. In addition to stormwater management around the project site, other current factors affecting soil erosion should be studied and remedial measures WestWater Engineering Page 15 of 18 July 2008 • implemented. This may include the installation of check dams along small ephemeral drainages and vegetation restoration. Table 9. Timing Limitations and NSO Recommendations For Active Raptor Nests Species Buffer Zone - NSO Seasonal Restriction Red-tailed Hawk 0.33 mile 1 March - 15 July Swainson's Hawk 0.25 mile 1 April - 15 August _ Sharp -shinned Hawk 0.25 mile 1 April - 15 August Cooper's Hawk 0.25 mile 1 April - 15 August American Kestrel * * Peregrine Falcon 0.5 mile 15 March - 31 July Prairie Falcon 0.5 mile 15 March - 31 July Golden Eagle 0.25 mile + alt. nests 1 January - 15 July Bald Eagle _ 0.50 mile _ 15 December - 15 July Northern Harrier 0.25 mile 1 April - 15 August Long-eared Owl 0.25 mile 1 March - 15 July Northern Saw -whet Owl 0.25 I March — 15 Jul Great Horned Owl • Great Homed Owls and Kestrels are relai vely tolerant of human activity. Keep a ctwity to a minimum during breeding season. 7.3.2 Fences Properly designed fences will prevent deer and elk from being injured or suffering death as a result of becoming entangled as they attempt to jump over or pass through a fence. Generally, wire fences that do not exceed 42 inches in height and have 12 -inch spacing between the top two wires will allow deer and elk to pass over a fence without conflict. The BLM utilizes these fence specifications for livestock fencing on federal lands (BLM 1989). The publication presented by CDOW, "Fencing with Wildlife in Mind" provides fence designs that are friendly to wildlife and is available at the CDOW web site at http://wildlife.state.co.us/NR/rdonlyres/B0D65D61-6CB0 4746-94F 1-6EE 194E1C230/0/fencing.pdf. 8.0 REFERENCES Andrews, R., and R. Righter. 1992..Colorado Birds: A Reference to Their Distribution and Habitat. Denver Museum of Natural History, Colorado. BLM. 1989. Bureau of Land Management Manual, Handbook H-1741-1, "Fencing". http://blm.gov. Board of County Commissioners. 2006, Garfield County Zoning Resolution of 1978, amended. October, 2006. Board of County Commissioners, Building and Planning Department, Glenwood Springs, Colorado. CDOW. 2008a. Colorado Division of Wildlife. Natural Diversity Information Source. http://ndis.nrel.colostate.edu/wildlife.asp. WestWater Engineering Page 1.6 of 18 July 2008 • CDOW. 2008b. Colorado Division of Wildlife. Wildlife Species of Concern. Threatened and Endangered List. CDOW Web Home Page: http://wildlife. state. co.usiWi ldlifeSpecieslSpec iesOfConcem/ThreatenedEndangeredList. Craig, Gerald R. 2002. Recommended Buffer Zones and Seasonal Restrictions for Colorado Raptors. Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver. CWMA. 2007. S. Anthony, T. D'Amato, A. Doran, S. Elzinga, J. Powell, 1. Schonle, and K. Uhing. Noxious Weeds of Colorado, Ninth Edition. Colorado Weed Management Association, Centennial. Elmblad, William. 2008. Location of Colorado River Cutthroat trout and genetic purity in South Parachute Loop Pipeline project area. Retired fisheries biologist, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Grand Junction, Colorado. Ilammerson, G. A. 1999. Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado, Second Edition. Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver. Kennedy, P. L., and D. W. Stahlecker.1993. Responsiveness of nesting northern goshawks to taped broadcasts of 3 conspecific calls. Journal of Wildlife Management, 57:249-257. Kershaw, Linda, A. MacKinnon, and J. Pojar. 1998. Plants of the Rocky Mountains. Lone Pine Publishing, Auburn, Washington. 4110 Kingery, H. E. 1998. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver. • Maddux, H., L. Fitzpatrick, and W. Noonan. 1993. Colorado River Endangered Fishes Critical Habitat. Biological Support Document. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Utah/Colorado Field Office, Salt Lake City, Utah, 225 pp. NRCS. 2008. U. S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. Web Soil Survey: http:llwebsoilsurvey.nres.usda.govl. Reid, F. A. 2006. A Field Guide to Mammals of North America, Fourth Edition. Peterson Field Guides. National Audubon Society, National Wildlife Federation, Roger Tory Peterson Institute, New York. Reynolds, R. T., R. T. Graham, M. H. Reiser, R. L. Bassett, P. L. Kennedy, D. A. Boyce Jr., G. Goodwin, R. Smith and E. L Fisher.1992. Management recommendations for the northern goshawk in the southwestern United States. General Technical Report RM - GTR -217, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station, Fort Collins, Colorado.. Righter, R., R. Levad, C. Dexter, and K. Potter. 2004. Birds of Western Colorado Plateau and Mesa Country. Grand Valley Audubon Society, Grand Junction, Colorado. WestWater Engineering Page 17 of 18 July 2008 Spackman, S., B. Jennings, J. Coles, C. Dawson, M. Minton, A. Kratz, and C. Spurrier. 1997. Colorado Rare Plant Field Guide. Prepared for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program. USFWS. 2002. Birds of Conservation Concern 2002. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Migratory Bird Management, Arlington, Virginia. Whitson, T. D. (editor), L. C. Burrill,, S. A. Dewey, D. W. Cudney, B. E. Nelson, R. D. Lee, and Robert Parker. 2004. Weeds of the West, Ninth Edition. Western Society of Weed Science in cooperation with Cooperative Extension Services, University of Wyoming. Laramie. WWE. 2004. BLM Special Status Species Plants Survey, Canyon Gas, Porcupine Loop Pipeline Project, Garfield County, Colorado. By WestWater Engineering, Grand Junction, Colorado; submitted to U.S. Bureau of Land Management, Glenwood Springs Field Office, Glenwood Springs, Colorado. WWE. 2007. Biological Report for Spruce Creek Environmental Assessment, Garfield County, Colorado. WestWater Engineering, Grand Junction, Colorado; submitted to Bureau of Land Management, Glenwood Springs Field Office, Glenwood Springs, Colorado. WestWater Engineering Page 18 of 18 July 2008 APPENDIX A Photo 4: View of project location Photo 5: Two -track road to project location WestWater Engineering Appendix A - Page 1 July 2008 Photo 6: _Active Red-tailed Hawk nest near pipeline ROW Photo 7: Bluffs where Red-tailed Hawk nest is located WestWater Engineering Appendix A — Page 2 July 2008 • • • Photo 8: Elk observed on project location WestWater Engineering Appendix A — Page 3 July 2008 H COMPLIANCE . /TIoNs INC Environmental Consulting July 28, 2008 Mr. Mike Shoemaker Regulatory Specialist Williams Production RMT Company 1058 County Road 215 Parachute, Colorado 81635 216 North Ave., Suite 1 Grand Junction, CO 81501 Phone: 970-243-3271 Fax: 970-243-3280 RE: Hoover Express Compressor Station and Pipeline Traffic Impact Statement Dear Mr. Shoemaker: HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. (HCS) was contracted by Williams Production RMT Company (Williams), to establish the projected traffic impact relating to the construction of the Hoover Express Compressor Station Complex, located in Garfield County, Colorado. In summary, HCSI has determined that construction of the Hoover Express project, as illustrated in Appendix A, has a minimal impact to current traffic trends and conditions in the area. Project Overview: Hoover Express Compressor Station and 12 inch Pipeline Project Pipeline: The Pipeline begins within Section 27 and crosses Sections 28, 33, and 32 of Township 7 South, Range 96 West of the 6th PM, Garfield County, Colorado. The project will consist of approximately 1.37 miles of pipeline Right -of -Way (ROW). The Town of Parachute, Colorado is the nearest population center. Pipe materials are anticipated to be staged along the pipeline right-of-way for each individual segment of pipe as they are unloaded from the truck. No additional staging area is foreseen to be constructed for this project. All vehicle traffic accesses State Highway 6. Procurement of a contractor to perform pipeline installation activities is to be determined through a bidding process. Compressor Station: The compressor station will be constructed within Section 32 of Township 7 South, Range 96 West of the 6th PM, in Garfield County, Colorado. All materials for the compressor station will be stored on location and no additional materials Iaydown area will be required. Vehicle traffic will access the construction area via State Highway 6. HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. Grand Junction, CO Environmental Consulting Professionals • • Mr. Mike Shoemaker July28, 2008 Results: All of the traffic will access State Highway 6. The following traffic pattern is anticipated for compressor station and pipeline construction during a 24 hour period at peak traffic/construction times: Hoover Express Project Compressor station and Right -Of -Way Staging: Personnel trips per day- 46 • Hoover Express Project Compressor station and Right -Of -Way Staging: Vehicle and Equipment Trips per day- 44 Until a contractor has been approved for the pipeline construction it is assumed that pipeline construction company employees will drive their personal vehicles to the construction site each day. Each piece of heavy equipment will be hauled to the nearest crossroad of the pipeline right- of-way work area. The number and types of personnel, vehicles and equipment employed for project construction will increase from a minimum at the beginning of the work, to a maximum about three weeks after start, stay more or less at this peak level until about three weeks from the end of the work, and then decrease to a minimum,. At the peak level of personnel staffing and equipment deployment, the following types and approximate numbers can be expected Table 1: The breakdown of vehicle types that will be entering the construction area: Personnel quantity (Each) Assistant supervisor 1 Chief Inspector 1 Construction Engineer 1 Construction Manager 1 Construction Supervisor 1 Contractor clerical 1 Eq uipm ent Operat ors 4 Forern en 2 I nsp ect or/M anagem ent Side Booms Clerical 1 Inspectors 4 Laborers 10 Surveyors 2 Truck Drivers 3 W d der Assistants 4 Welders 4 X-ray Technicians 4 TOTAL - -- 46 Hoover Express Traffic Impact Repori Williams Production RMT Companies Vehicles & Ecluipm ent Quantity 4x4 Pickup & personal cars 20 Brush Hog 1 Dozers 2 Drill Seeder 1 Dump Truck 1 Flatbed Trucks 2 Patrol Graders - - 1 Pipe Bending Machine 1 Side Booms 2 Stringing Trucks 2 Track Backhoes 2 Trucks& Flat Bed Trailer 2 Welder Trucks 4 Wheel Backhoes 1 X-ray Van 2 Total - 44 Mr. Mike Shoemaker July28, 2008 Personnel and equipment required for a project of this size, type and nature exist in adequate quantities in the regional area. The equipment and personnel will be staged and lodged in nearby locations to include but not limited to Parachute, Rifle, Meeker, Glenwood Springs, DeBeque, Grand Junction and points in between. Pipe storage yards, equipment and materials warehousing, contractor yards and other project use areas Will be at pre-existing locations owned by Williams or other industrial or commercial entities. If HRL Compliance Solutions Inc. can be of any further assistance, please feel free to give us a call. Respectfully; HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. Maurice Foye Environmental Scientist cc: Dan Hoover, Williams, RMT Quentin Smith, Wagon Wheel Consulting Herman Lucero, HCSI file attachments: Appendix A Appendix 13 Hoover Express Traffic impact Report Williams Production RMT Companies Hoover Express Compressor Station (Garfield County, Colorado) RESULTS OF AN AMBIENT SITE SOUND SURVEY AND ACOUSTICAL ANALYSIS OF A NEW NATURAL GAS GATHERING COMPRESSOR STATION Prepared for: Williams Production 1058 County Road 215 Parachute, CO 81635 Submitted by: HRL Compliance Solutions Inc. 216 North Avenue, Suite Grand Junction, CO 81501 • • Table of Contents 1.0 Introduction 2.0 Site Description 3.0 Sound Criteria and Terminology 4.0 Measurement Location and Methodology 4. I Sound Measure Location Table l: Daytime Ambient Noise at 350 feet Table 2: Daytime Ambient Noise at Adjacent Property Lines Table 3: Nighttime Ambient Noise at 350 feet Table 4: Nighttime Ambient Noise at Adjacent Property Lines 4.2 Instruments and Methods Used 5.0 Acoustical Analysis (compressor station) 5.1 Station Sound Contribution at Nearby Property Lines and 350 feet from Compressor Station 5.2 Recommendations Appendix A Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Vicinity Map of Hoover Express Compressor Station Model Grid Calc without Permanent Structure Model Grid Calc with Permanent Structure Appendix B COGCC Rules and Guidelines • • s 1.0 Introduction In this report, HCSI will present the results of background noise survey and analysis for the Hoover Express Corepressor Station (Station), a new natural gas gathering compressor station located in the Piceance Basin near Parachute, Colorado. The following describes the purpose of the ambient sound survey: (1) Document the existing ambient noise levels and locate any noise - sensitive areas (NSAs), such as residences. (2) Estimate the sound contribution of the compressor station at any identified NSA surrounding the site 350ft from the center. (3) Determine noise mitigation and equipment requirements to ensure sounds standards are not exceeded during compressor station operation. 2.0 Site Description The presence of any NSAs with reported sound measurement locations utilized for the ambient sound survey are illustrated in Appendix A, Figure 1. The facility will be located in Garfield County, Colorado, approximately 5 miles west of Parachute. The land surrounding the site is lower elevation Pinyon/Juniper woodlands with sage and saltbush flats. Adjacent land owners consist of Williams Production RMT Company located 1410 feet to the WSW, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) 605 feet north, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Interstate 1-70 right-of-way (ROW) 1371 feet to the south and the Smallwood property line located 4430 feet to the WNW. Two Caterpillar G3516 Gas Generators will be installed outside of the compressor building on a concrete pad. An additional three (3) generators may be added at a later date, totaling five (5) generators housed outside on concrete pads. 3.0 Sound Criteria and Terminology The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Committee (COGCC) regulate the oil and gas drilling and production industry in the State of Colorado. The COGCC is responsible for regulating noise generated by natural gas facilities in Colorado, COGCC Rules and Regulations 800 series ("Aesthetic and. Noise Control Regulations-; Section 801 and 802) address noise requirements (i.e., maximum allowable noise levels) for natural gas facilities. This is provided as Appendix B. Upon evaluation of the guidelines aforementioned; the following items are applicable to the Hoover Express Compressor Station: Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies • In remote locations, where there is no reasonably proximate occupied structure or designated outside activity area, the light industrial standard may be applicable. Based on the aforementioned, the "light industrial" standard will be applied to the project. The Station noise contribution at 350 feet from the site center should not exceed 70 dH(A) (daytime) and 65 dB(A) (nighttime), Since the Station can operate 24 hours/day, then the nighttime maximum permissible noise level of 65 dB(A) is considered the more stringent noise requirement. • In the presence of a compliant or onsite inspection, the noise level at 25 feet from the exterior wall of an existing residence or occupied structure nearest to the Station should not exceed 65 dB(C). • Exhaust from all engines, motors, coolers and other mechanized equipment shall be vented in a direction away from all occupied buildings. • All facilities within four hundred (400) feet of occupied buildings with. engines or motors that are not electrically operated shall be equipped with quite design mufflers or equivalent. All mufflers shall be properly installed and maintained in proper working order. • In the hours between 07:00 a.m. and 07:00 p.m. the noise levels permitted may be increased ten (10) db(A) for a period of no more than fifteen minutes in any one hour period. The allowable noise level for periodic, impulsive or shrill noise is reduced by five (5) db(A) from the levels shown. Zone 7:00 am to next 7:00 pm 7:00 pm to next 7:00 am Light Industrial 70 db(A) _ 65 db(A) 4.0 Measurement Locations, Methodology and Results 4.1 Sound Survey Locations Ambient sound levels were measured 350 feet in directions O° North, 90° East, 1.80° South and 270° West, from the center reference point of the proposed compressor station. Additionally, ambient levels were measured at the nearest intersection of all adjacent property boundary lines surrounding the compressor station. Tables 1 and 2 below indicate ambient noise levels for each given location during the day and Tables 3 and 4 are representative during the night. Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production MIT Companies Table 1. Day Ambient Noise Levels 350 Feet from Hoover Express Compressor Station Location Le Lepd LAE LAFmax Peak L1.0 L10.0 L50.0 L90.0 L95.0 Lmin 00 3508 North 44.1 29.1 73.5 56.4 86.3 49.7 46.8 42.1 38.4 37.8 35.1 1800 @ 350ft South 57.0 42.0 86.4 70.5 99.4 63.0 59.5 55.6 51.6 50.2 42.5 90° @ 350ft East 521 37.0 81.4 64.0 94.0 58.7 54.8 50.2 45.8 44.4 39.9 270° @ 350ft West 52.7 37.6 82.0 65.0 83.2 59.5 55.5 50.9 46.4 J 44.7 40.0 *All sample readings are measured in dB(A) Table 2. Day Ambient Noise Levels at Surrounding Property Lines Location Leq Lepd LAE LAFmax Peak L1.0 L10.0 L50.0 L90.0 L95.0 Lmin CDOT 37.6 22.5 66.9 52.6 77.1 43.6 39.2 36.3 33.1 95.0 27.3 1-70 ROW 61.6 46.6 91.0 73.2 98.0 68.2 65.0 59.6 53.7 52.0 44.4 Smallwood 66.9 51.8 96.2 77.3 104.1 73,8 70.4 64.9 59.8 58.1 51.3 Williams 41.1 26.0 70.4 57.8 87.6 471 43.3 39.6 36.3 35.4 32.3 BLM 44.1 1 29.0 73.4 57.4 89.1 51.3 47.1 42.1 37.6 36.6 32.2 *All sample readings are measured in d8(A) Table 3. Night Ambient Noise Levels at 350 Feet from Hoover Express Compressor Station Location Le Lepd LAE LAFmax Peak 1.1.0 L10.0 L50.0 L90.0 L95.0 Lmin 0° @ 350ft North 37.6 22.5 66.9 52.6 77.1 43.6 39.2 36.3 33.1 95.0 27.3 1800 C 350ft South 51.8 36.7 81.1 71.6 94.3 58.3 54.3 50,1 42.8 40.2 30.0 90° 350ft East 37.9 22.8 67.2 52.6 78.4 45.6 40.9 34.4 29.5 28.8 26.1 270° @ 350ft West 46.0 30.9 75.3 60.3 81.1 54.1 48.8 43.3 36.8 35.4 30.9 *All sample readings are measured in dB(A) Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies Table 4. Night Ambient Noise Levels at Surrounding Property Lines Location Le q Lepd LAE LAFinax. Peak L1.0 L10.0 L50.0 L90.0 L95.0 Lmin COOT 1 1-70 ROW 58.7 43.6 88.0 71.8 95.0 66.6 62.3 56.1 46.5 43.5 37.2 Smallwood 60.6 45.6 90.0 73.9 93.2 69.1 64.5 57.2 47.4 44.7 37.7 Williams 43.8 28.7 73.1 54.5 78.0 50.4 46.5 41.7 38.7 37.9 33.8 RLM 36.7 21.6 66.0 51.8 82.2 43.7 38.8 35.0 31.3 303 25.9 *All sample readings are measured in dB(A) Daytime ambient samples were collected between the times of 10:00 a.m. and 01:00 p.m. Nighttime samples were collected between 07:00 p.m. and 12:00 p.m. Average wind speed was <5 miles per hour during all sampling periods. 4.2 Instruments and Methods Used A Cirrus CRS 11:B was used to collect the ambient noise levels set on a 15 minute duration. The sound levels were determined by averaging minute -by -minute measurements made over a fifteen minute sample period. This method was used for day and night sample periods. The Cirrus CR811:13 sound meter was equipped with a wind screen, placed on a tripod approximately 4 ft off the ground, and angled in the direction of the projected compressor station. Survey points were established using a Trimble GeoXT 2005 series GPS unit. The GeoXT exhibits sub -meter accuracy. Coordinates of the center point of the proposed compressor station were used to generate four points, 350ft away in each cardinal direction. County parcel lines were uploaded into the unit to establish survey points at the exact nearest property boundary lines from the Station. Computer Noise Model: A three dimensional computer noise model was constructed in order to predict the sound level impact of the proposed compressor station. The compressor station noise model was developed using CadnaA, Version 3.6.120, a noise modeling package developed by DataKustik GmbH. The software takes into account spreading losses, ground and atmospheric effects, shielding from barriers and buildings, and reflections from surfaces. The computer noise model calculations are based on "ISO 9613-2: Acoustics - Attenuation of sound during propagation outdoors". Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies t 5.0 Acoustical Analysis (corepressor station The following section provides the estimated sound contribution of the Station if all three (3) permanent compressor units were operated at full load conditions. The acoustical analysis of the Station considers the noise produced by all continuous operating equipment with the potential to contribute to ambient noise at all nearby property boundaries and at the 350ft survey points. The model utilized two scenarios: I) a compressor station containing no structural protection from traveling noise; and 2) a compressor station containing permanent structure protection around the compressor facility. 5.1 Station Sound Contribution at Nearest Property Lines and 350 feet from Compressor Center For the Station analysis at the nearest property lines and 350 feet from center of compressor station in all directions, we have modeled contribution of noise generated by the operation of the compressor station. Figure 2 illustrates the survey locations and the projected noise contributed by the compressor units with no structural protection. Due to the noise restrictions, as regulated by the COGCC, the compressor station is required to meet noise emission standards of 70 db(A) during the day and 65 db(A) at night. As shown in Figure 2, the survey locations 350ft East, North, South and the BLM property boundary to the north are slightly exceeding these limits. Figure 3 illustrates the survey locations and the projected noise contributed by the compressor units with structural protection. In this scenario, all survey locations indicate attainment of required and satisfactory noise levels. Figure 3 illustrates the noise projection emitted from the compressor station after installing a permanent housing structure. This allows for sound to reverberate and stay within the perimeter of the walls. 5.2 Recommendation To achieve acceptable levels of noise for all the locations on the Hoover Express Compressor Station, HCSI recommends installing a housing structure around the compressor station to help reduce the noise emitted and to bring levels to within the COGCC guidelines. Possible attainment structures should consist ofa total enclosure or partial enclosure with a height of 12 feet. Corrugated steel installed horizontally would be the ideal choice for structural protection due to its ability to reflect noise both downward and upward. A full enclosure structure may be of any type of material suitable and customary to typical operations and of other structures related to the compressor station. Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies • • • If HRL Compliance Solutions Inc. can be of any further assistance, please feel free to give us a call. Respectfully; HRT, Compliance Solutions, Inc. Kris Rowe cc: Rob l3lei I, Williams, RMT Dan Hoover, Williams, RMT Quentin Smith, Wagon Wheel Consulting Herman Lucero, HCSI fle attachments: Appendix A Appendix B Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies • Appendix A Figures 1-3 • • The generators are driven by CAT 3516 gas engines and are scheduled to be housed in a permanent structure. Figure 1 (Vicinity Map) Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies s re 1 (Vicinity Map) — Cont'd 230100 2306000 230600 731000 231200 awe 731600 231600 04 H 230200 :30400 Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies 04 'j J1' 7 ) -99 0 de. lllllllllll a 3 cia : 40 O ct i 550 A@ once lllllllllll 65 0 dB ENE> 700de 7503 _ Y 8D0 iss 230600 231006 231206 21100 ' 85 0 dB • Figure 2 (Model Grid Calc without Facility Structure) 8 :30280 238480 730680 2?0890 731000 7712170 231498 73/600 731600 211, .99 O dB s 35 0 ae 400de 45od® >sooce > sa k de ! 3 Cam 66Gca N > 710 0 O 1♦ >750CB ® 130 0 cst 1 - y asoO nom] M0404 230690 730600 231044 231200 231400 Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies • • Figure 2 (Model Grid Cale without Facility Structure) — Cont'd 231206 230400 230600 .30000 2.71000 7312170 231400at No 231600 a Z >990da 35006 450 d6 > 45 o a6 > 5000E > 56 0 de > mode > 660 d$ N > 700de 750da Booce 2302% 730400' 73[7600 730800' X1000 731200 231400 2311 w > e6 0 dB Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies • Figure 3 (Model Grid Calc with Facility Structure) 8 a 8 1 :304ro 730600 :UMW 1/000 23/700 731100 MI IRA 231000 :30200 2.&100 271600 MLIMC, 23/000 ?31209 201400 MI Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies 8 a 8 >-990dB > 35008 >470de *O dB > 500 550d8 1♦ a 00 0 c1P ) 05 0 dE 1� > 70 0 d6 11♦ > 75 0 dB 90 0 de wOd6 Figure 3 (Model Grid Cale with Facility Structure) — Cont'd A 2 230200 730400 236690 73000 211000 231200 22331490 mem 231000 8 // rr' y -99 O dA "� > 35ooR l� 40 008 r � > 45od rr 1.111 50 a cE 55 o de eaae - E6a1 70 0 da 1111 > 75 0 ce � so0ce 230200 230400 230E93 230000 231900 211200 231400 231 MEI > BS o ds Hoover Express Sound Survey Williams Production RMT Companies • Appendix 13 COGCC Regulations 800 Series • AESTHETIC AND NOISE CONTROL REGULATIONS 801. INTRODUCTION The rules and regulations in this section are promulgated to control aesthetics and noise impacts during the drilling, completion and operation of oil and gas wells and production facilities. Any Colorado county, home rule or statutory city, town. territorial charter city or city and county may, by application to the Commission, seek a determination that the rules and regulations in this section. or any individual rule or regulation, shall not apply to oil and gas activities occurring within the boundaries, or any part thereof, of any Colorado county, home rule or statutory city, town, territorial charter city or city and county. such determination to be based upon a showing by any Colorado county, home rule or statutory city, town, territorial charter city or city and county that, because of conditions existing therein, the enforcement of these rules and regulations is not necessary within the boundaries of any Colorado county. home rule or statutory city, town, territorial charter city or city and county for the protection of public health, safety and welfare. 802. NOISE ABATEMENT a. The goal of this rule is to identify noise sources related to oil and gas operations that impact surrounding landowners and to implement cost-effective and technically -feasible mitigation measures to bring oil and gas facilities into compliance with the allowable noise levels identified in subsection c. Operators should be aware that noise control is most effectively addressed at the siting and design phase, especially with respect to centralized compression and other downstream "gas facilities" (see definition in the 100 Series of these rules) b, Oil and gas operations at any well site. production facility or gas facility, shall comply with the following maximum permissible noise levels. Operations involving pipeline or gas facility installation or maintenance, the use of a drilling rig, completion rig, workover rig, or stimulation is subject to the maximum permissible noise levels for industrial zones. The type of land use of the surrounding area shall be determined by the Commission in consultation with the local governmental designee taking into consideration any applicable zoning or other local land use designation. c. In the hours between 7:00 a.m. and the next 7:00 p.m. the noise levels permitted below may be increased ten (10) db(A) for a period not to exceed fifteen (15) minutes in any one (1) hour period. The allowable noise level for periodic, impulsive or shrill noises is reduced by five (5) db(A) from the levels shown. ZONE 7:00 am to next 7:00 pm 7:00 pm to next 7:00 am Residential/Agricultural/Rural 55 db(A) 50 db(A) Commercial 60 db(A) 55 db(A) Light industrial 70 db(A) 65 db(A) Industrial 80 db(A) 75 db(A) In remote locations, where there is no reasonably proximate occupied structure or designated outside activity area, the light industrial standard may be applicable. Pursuant to Commission inspection or upon receiving a complaint from a nearby property owner or local governmental designee regarding noise related to oil and gas operations. the Commission shall conduct an onsite investigation and take sound measurements as prescribed herein The following provide guidance for the measurement of sound levels and assignment of points of compliance for oil and gas operations: (1) Sound levels shall be measured at a distance of three hundred and fifty (350) feet from the noise source. At the request of the complainant, the sound level shall also be measured at a point beyond three hundred fifty (350) feet that the complainant believes is more representative of the noise impact. If an oil and gas well site, production facility or gas facility is installed closer than three hundred fifty (350) feet from an existing occupied structure, sound levels shall be measured at a point twenty-five (25) feet from the structure towards the noise source. Noise levels from oil and gas facilities located on surface property owned, leased or otherwise controlled by the operator shall be measured at three hundred and fifty (350) feet or at the property line, whichever is greater. In situations where measurement of noise levels at three hundred and fifty (350) feet is impractical or unrepresentative due to topography, the measurement may be taken at a lesser distance and extrapolated to a 350 -foot equivalent using the following formula db(A)DISTANCE 2 = db(A)DISTANCE 1 — 20 x log1O(distance 2/distance 1) 800-1 as of November 30, 2006 • (2) Sound 'level meters shall be equipped with wind screens, and readings taken when the wind velocity at the time and place of measurement is not more than five (5) miles per hour (3) Sound level measurements shall be taken four (4) feet above ground level (4) Sound levels shall be determined by averaging minute -by -minute measurements made over a minimum Fifteen (15) minute sample duration if practicable. The sample shall be taken under conditions that are representative of the noise experienced by the complainant (e.g., at night, morning, evening, or during special weather conditions). (5) In all sound level measurements, the existing ambient noise level from all other sources in the encompassing environment at the time and place of such sound level measurement shall be considered to determine the contribution to the sound level by the oil and gas operation(s). d. In situations where the complaint or Commission onsite inspection indicates that low frequency noise is a component of the problem, the Commission shall obtain a sound level measurement twenty-five (25) feet from the exterior wall of the residence or occupied structure nearest to the noise source, using a noise meter calibrated to the db(C) scale If this reading exceeds 65 db(C), the Commission shall require the operator to obtain a low frequency noise impact analysis by a qualified sound expert, including identification of any reasonable control measures available to mitigate such low frequency noise impact. Such study shall be provided to the Commission for consideration and possible action. e. Exhaust from all engines, motors, coolers and other mechanized equipment shall be vented in a direction away from all occupied buildings. f. All facilities within four hundred (400) feet of occupied buildings with engines or motors which are not electrically operated shall be equipped with quiet design mufflers or equivalent. All mufflers shall be properly installed and maintained in proper working order. 803. LIGHTING To the extent practicable, site lighting shall be directed downward and internally so as to avoid glare on public roads and occupied buildings within seven hundred (700) feet. 804. VISUAL IMPACT MITIGATION Production facilities constructed or substantially repainted after May 30, 1992 which are observable from any public highway shall be painted with uniform, non -contrasting, non -reflective color tones, (similar to the Munsell Soil Color Coding System) and with colors matched to but slightly darker than the surrounding landscape. 800-2 as of November 30, 2006 CTL' THO MPSO N GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR SECTION 32, T6S, R9BW GARFIELD COUNTY, COLORADO Prepared For: WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING, INC. 111 East are Street Rifle, CO 81650 Attention: Mr, Jimmy Smith Project No. GS05164-125 234 Center Drive j Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601 Telephone: 974-945-2809 Fax: 970-945.7411 April 21, 2008 SCOPE TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 SUMMARY OF CONCLUSIONS 1 SITE CONDITIONS 2 PLANNED CONSTRUCTION 2 SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS , 2 SITE EARTHWORK 3 Site Grading Fill 3 Excavations .4 Sub -Excavation 4 Backfill ....,...........5 FOUNDATIONS 6 SLAB -ON -GRADE CONSTRUCTION 7 BELOW -GRADE CONSTRUCTION .7 SURFACE DRAINAGE 7 CONCRETE 8 LIMITATIONS .. 8 FIGURE 1 - APPROXIMATE LOCATIONS OF EXPLORATORY BORINGS FIGURES 2 AND 3 — SUMMARY LOGS OF EXPLORATORY BORINGS FIGURE 4 — STRUCTURAL FILL CONFIGURATION APPENDIX A — LABORATORY TEST RESULTS WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR CTL { T PROJECT NO. GS55!54-125 S'lGS45154.0I/M12.5..2 Reports5GS65154 125 R1.doc SCOPE This report presents the results of our geotechnical investigation for the Hoover Express Compressor facility proposed in Section 32, T6S, R96W in Garfield County, Colorado. We conducted the investigation to evaluate the subsurface conditions at the site and provide geotechnical recommendations for the proposed construction. Our report is based on data developed from our subsurface exploration, laboratory testing, our engineering analysis and experience with similar conditions. The recommendations contained in the report were developed based on our understanding of the proposed construction. We should be informed if actual construction will differ from the descriptions herein so that we can provide geotechnical engineering input and revise our recommendations and design criteria, if necessary. A summary of our conclusions is presented below. SUMMARY OF CONCLUSIONS 1. Subsurface conditions encountered in our exploratory borings generally consisted of 6 inches of sandy clay "topsoil"' underlain by sandy clay with sandstone pieces and occasional clayey sand lenses. Sandstone bedrock with claystone lenses was encountered at depths of 7 to 22 feet in 5 of our 7 borings. Ground water was not encountered in our exploratory borings at the time of drilling. 2. Our subsurface information indicates sandy clay soils are present at anticipated foundation elevations across the site. Laboratory test results and our experience indicate the sandy clay soils at this site possess the potential for movement under expected loads. Differential movement and associated damage to foundations is possible if the proposed structures are constructed directly on the undisturbed, natural clay soils. We recommend sub -excavation of the clay soils below the planned structure footprints to a depth of at least 2 feet below bottom of foundation elevations and replacement with densely compacted, structural fill to enhance structure performance. Additional discussion is in the report. Design and construction criteria for foundation are presented in the report. 3. We judge that slab -on -grade construction can be supported by the soils with a low to moderate risk of differential movements and associated damage. Additional discussion is in the report. WAGON W: E' L CONS:;LY.NG, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR CTL 1 T PROJECT NO. GS451fi4.125 5;1G505165.U0011RS12. Reports G$1:1516.1 125 R1.doc • 4. Surface drainage should be designed to provide for rapid removal of surface water away from the proposed structures. SITE CONDITIONS The Hoover Express Compressor facility is planned on about 3 acres located in the NW 1/4 NE 1/4 of Section 32, Township 6 South, Range 96 West of the 6th R.M. in Garfield County, Colorado. The area is about 1/4 mile northwest of Interstate 70 about 1 mile west of the Una bridge. The area is located in a draw east of Srnith Gulch. Ground surface slopes gently down to east and south. Comparatively steep slopes rise up to the west. A stream channel that was dry is to the east. Vegetation consists of grasses and brush. Access is from a dirt road north of 1-70. PLANNED CONSTRUCTION Five compressors are planned. A one-story building will be constructed to house the compressors or control equipment. Some site grading and access road construction may occur. We understand that reinforced mats are the preferred foundation system to support the compressors. Site grading will likely involve cut depths and fill thickness of less than 4 feet. Maximum foundation depths of about 4 feet are anticipated. If actual construction will be different than described above, we should be informed so that we can provide geotechnical engineering input and check that our recommendations are appropriate. SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS Subsurface conditions across the site were investigated by drilling seven exploratory borings (TH-1 through TH-7) at the approximate locations shown on Figure 1, Exploratory borings were drilled with a track -mounted drill rig. Exploratory operations were directed by our staff engineer who logged the soils encountered in the borings and obtained samples for testing in our laboratory. Graphic logs of the soils found in our exploratory borings are shown on Figures 2 and 3. WAGON WHEE_ CONSUL71NG, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR CTL T PROJECT NO. GS05164-125 S:450316.4. DO 0% 25L2. RupunsIG5C5164 125 R1.doe 2 Subsurface conditions encountered in our exploratory borings generally consisted of 6 inches of sandy clay "topsoil"' underlain by sandy claywith sandstone pieces and occasional clayey sand lenses. Sandstone bedrock with claystone lenses was encountered at depths of 7 to 22 feet in 5 of our 7 borings. Ground water was not encountered in our exploratory borings at the time of drilling. Our observations during drilling and penetration resistance tests indicate that the clay was stiff to very stiff, and the bedrock was hard to very hard. Exploratory borings were backfilled immediately after drilling operations were completed. Samples of the soils obtained from our borings were returned to our laboratory where field classifications were checked. Four samples of the natural clay were selected for one-dimensional. swell -consolidation testing. During the testing procedure the sample was loaded with 1,000 psf and then flooded. The resulting volutne change (i.e. swell or consolidation) was measured. The samples tested exhibited between 4.7 percent consolidation and 2.4 percent swell. Results of swell - consolidation testing are included in Appendix A. Samples of the soil selected for engineering classification testing contained 38 and 67 percent silt and clay sized particles (passing the No. 200 sieve) and exhibited liquid limits of 30 and 32 percent and plasticity indices of 14 and 15 percent. Laboratory tests results are summarized on Table A -I. SITE EARTHWORK Site Grading Fill Site grading and drainage plans were not provided to us. Some grading will likely be required. We expect maximum excavation cuts and filt thickness will be about 4 feet. Areas which will receive fill should be stripped of vegetation, organic soils and debris. The resulting subgrade surface should be scarified to a depth of at least 8 inches, moisture -conditioned and compacted. WAGON WHEEL CONSULT:NG, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COVPRESSOR CTL { T PROJECT Na. GS35164.125 S:LGS05164.09011252. Rupurts&G5051G4 125 Ri.do The on-site soils or similar soils free of organics, debris and rocks larger than 6 inches in diameter can be used as fill. Fill should be placed in loose lifts of 10 inches thick or Tess, moisture -treated to within 2 percent of optimum moisture content, and compacted to at least 95 percent of standard Proctor (ASTM D 698) maximum dry density. Density and moisture content of the fill should be tested during placement. Excavations Our subsurface information indicates that excavations for foundations and utilities at this site can be accomplished using conventional, heavy-duty excavation equipment. Excavation sides will need to be sloped or braced to meet local, state and federal safety regulations, We expect that the soils encountered within anticipated excavation depths will predominantly classify as Type B soils based on OSHA standards governing excavations. Contractors should identify the soils encountered in excavations and refer to OSHA standards to determine appropriate slopes. Contractors are responsible for providing and maintaining safe and stable excavations. Free ground water was not found in our exploratory borings during this investigation. Excavations for the proposed construction of structures will not likely penetrate ground water, We anticipate that ground water will not impact the proposed construction. Sub -Excavation Laboratory test results and our experience indicate the natural clay soils below the site possess the potential for swell or consolidation when wetted under building )(lads. There is a risk of differential movement and associated damage to structures if the structures are constructed directly on the undisturbed clay soil. WAGON W 4EEL CONSULTING. IVC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR CTL 17 PROJECT NO. GS05164.125 SAGS05154 02112R2. Re pnrts1GS05154 125 R1.doc 4 To enhance potential performance, we recommend sub -excavation of the clay soils below the planned building footprint. Removal of clay should be to a depth of at feast 2 feet below bottom of building footing and compressor mat foundation elevations. Figure 4 is a sketch of the recommended fill configuration below the building. The bottom of the area of clay removed below the buildings should extend laterally at least 2 feet beyond the perimeter of the buildings. The bottom of the area should be scarified to a depth of at least 8 inches, moisture -treated and compacted. We recommend re -using the on-site clay for structural fill, provided they are free of organics, debris and rocks larger than 3 inches in diameter. Import of a CDOT Class 6 aggregate base course or similar soil for use as structural fill would also be appropriate and may expedite the fill placement process. Structural fill should be moisture -treated to within 2 percent of optimum moisture content and compacted to at least 98 percent of standard Proctor (ASTM D 698) maximum dry density. Additional water required to increase the existing soil moisture content to the specified moisture content should be uniformly mixed into the fill soil prior to compaction. We recommend a maximum loose lift thickness of 8 inches. in order for the procedure to perforin properly, close control of structural fill placement to specifications is required. Our representative should be called to observe placement and check compaction and moisture content of the structural fill. Backfill Proper placement of backfill adjacent to foundation walls and in utility trenches is important to reduce infiltration of surface water and subsequent settlement. Backfill soils should consist of the on-site soils, provided they are free of organic matter, debris and rocks larger than 3 inches in diameter. Backfill should be placed in thin lifts, moisture conditioned to within 2 percent of optimum moisture content and compacted to at least 95 percent of standard Proctor (ASTM D 698) maximum dry density. Our representative should check density and moisture content of backfill during placement. WAGON'.HE€. CONSLING, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS CON'PRESSOR CTL 1T PROJECT NC, GSO5164.12S S•I2S051GAODN12512. Roports1G505164 125 R1.doG 5 FOUNDATIONS Our laboratory testing for this investigation and our experience indicate that the clay soils possess the potential for swell or consolidation when wetted under buildintr loads. Differential movement is possible if the building is constructed directly an the undisturbed natural clay soils. After sub -excavation, we believe the risk of differential movement of footings and mats will be low. We recommend constructing the building on footing foundations and the compressors on mat foundations. Foundations should be supported by a minimum 2 -foot thickness of densely compacted, structural fill. Recommendations for structural fill were outlined in the Sub -Excavation section. Sub -excavation and thicker granular structural fill placement would likely enhance performance, The mat or footings should be designed and constructed with the criteria below. 1. Footing and mat foundations should be supported on an at least 2 -foot thickness of densely compacted. structural fill. Soils loosened during the forming process for the footings should be removed or re - compacted prior to placing concrete. 2. Footings and mats should be designed for a maximum soil bearing pressure of 2,000 psf. 3. A modulus of subgrade reaction of 90 pci can be used for design of mats on at least two feet of structural fill. 4. To resist lateral loads, a coefficient of friction of 0.35 can be used to calculate friction between concrete and soil for structural fill. For compacted backfill that will not be excavated, passive earth pressure can be calculated using an equivalent fluid density of 250 pcf. 5. Continuous wall footings should have a minimum width of at least 16 inches. Foundations for isolated columns should have minimum dimensions of 24 inches by 24 inches. Larger sizes may be required, depending upon foundation loads. 6. Grade beams and foundation walls should be well reinforced, top and bottom, to span undisclosed loose or soft soil pockets, We recommend reinforcement sufficient to span an unsupported distance of at least 12 feet. Reinforcement should be designed by the structural engineer. WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR. CTL p T PROJECT NO. GS05'.64.12s S:1GS9518d9C79+125Ya. Raports10565'64 125 R1.dae 6 7. The soils under exterior footings should be protected from freezing and the edges of mats should be turned down or thickened. We recommend the bottom of footings and the edges of reinforced mats be constructed at a depth of at least 36 inches below finished exterior grades. SLAB -ON -GRADE CONSTRUCTION Differential movement may occur if floor slabs are constructed directly on the undisturbed, natural clay soils. We recommend supporting floor slabs, if constructed, on an at least 2 -foot thickness of densely compacted, structural fill. Recommendations for sub -excavation and structural fill presented in the Structural Fill section should be followed. Care should be taken to eliminate water penetrating the joint between floor slabs and corepressor and building foundations. Exterior concrete tlatwork and pavements should be isolated from the building. Frequent control joints should be provided, in accordance with American Concrete Institute (ACI) recommendations, to reduce problems associated with shrinkage and curling. Slabs should be separated from footings and column pads with slip joints which allow free vertical movement of the slabs. Plumbing and utilities which pass through slabs should be isolated from the slabs with sleeves. BELOW -GRADE CONSTRUCTION We understand that no below -grade areas are planned in the buildings. If plans change to include below -grade areas, we should be informed. Criteria for lateral earth pressures and subsurface drainage are required for the design of below -grade construction. SURFACE DRAINAGE Surface drainage is critical to the performance of structures. The structures should be located away from areas that may be impacted by the drainage to the east. We recommend the following precautions be observed during construction and maintained at all times after the construction is completed: WAGON WHEEL COhrSU TING, VNG. HOOVER 'EXPRESS CO 4PPESSOR CIL 1 T PROJECT NO GSJti164-175 9.VQS05164.00 1252. Reparts%GS05164 125 Ri.doc 7 • 1. The ground surface surrounding the exteriors of the structures should be sloped to drain away from the structures in all directions. In general, we recommend providing a slope of at least 6 inches in the first 5 feet around the structures in landscaped areas. 2. Backfill adjacent to foundation wall exteriors should be placed and compacted as described in the Backfill section. Buildings should be provided with gutters and downspouts. Roof downspouts and drains should discharge well beyond the limits of all backfill. Splash blocks and downspout extensions should be provided at all discharge points. CONCRETE Concrete in contact with soil can be subject to sulfate attack. We measured water-soluble sulfate concentrations in two samples from this site. Concentrations were measured of 0.06 and 0.9 percent. Water-soluble sulfate concentrations between 0,2 and 2 percent indicate Class 2 exposure to sulfate attack, according to the American Concrete institute (ACI) Guide To Durable Concrete (AC/ 201.2R). For sites with Class 2 sulfate exposure, AC1 201 recommends using a cement meeting the requirements for Type V (sulfate resistant) cement or the equivalent, with a maximum water-to-cementitious material ratio of 0.45. The concrete should have a total air content of 6% 4. 1.5%. As an alternative, ACI allows the use of cement that conforms to ASTM C 150 Type 1I requirements, if it meets the Type V performance requirements (ASTM C 452) of ASTM C 150 Table 4. ACI 201 also allows a blend of any type of Portland cement and fly ash with an expansion of less than 0.05% at 6 months when tested in accordance with ASTM C 1012. AGI 318 indicates concrete in severe exposure should have a specified compressive strength of 4,500 psi. Resistivity testing may be performed to better characterize the corrosive potential of the soil. LIMITATIONS Our exploratory borings were located to obtain a reasonably accurate picture of the subsurface. Variations in the subsurface conditions not indicated by our UVAGON WHEE- CDNSULT iNG, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR CTL T PROJECT NO. GS75164.125 SlOS55164.00[1;i2Va Repo^afG S115 1 64 125 Ri doc 8 • • • exploratory borings will occur. Our representative should be called to observe the completed foundation excavations to check that subsurface conditions are as anticipated and suitable for support of the foundations as designed. We should observe and test placement of fill. This investigation was conducted in a manner consistent with that level of care and skill ordinarily exercised by geotechnical engineers currently practicing under similar conditions in the locality of this project. No warranty, express or implied, is made. If we can be of further service or if you have questions regarding this report, please call. CTL 1 THOMPSON, INC. Reviewed by Craig A. Burger, P.E. John Mechling, P.E. Project. Manager Branch Manager CAB:JM:cd (5 copies sent) WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR CTL I T PROJECT NO. GS051 1-125 S;',G595164.GyCO2Si.2 Rep ortslGS 5' 6M 125 R'.dnc 9 0 • NOTE: SCALE: r= 400' Locations of exploratory borings are approximate. 1 Tleni • TH-6 N..._hipLo teem lmat aMb Wagon Wheel Consulting. Inc. Project No. 6505164-125 4 xet \ TH-2 •posi„41_,› \\\ 1' 1 \f Bon• TW -7 a" • TH-1 7 CHrib.1...1.. v_ Locations of Exploratory Borings 1 • 10 20 25 30 35 • TH-1 TH-2 TH-3 TH-4 23/12 40/12 50/5 50/5 50/3 Project Na. G505164-125 15/12 50/9 45/12 50/11 25/12 31/12 37/12 50/9 TI4-5 SUMMARY LOGS OF EXPLORATORY BORINGS TH-6 TH-7 23/12 12/12 30/12 /▪ r // 15/12 5 r / / / r , 10 ,r r/ 16/12 15 ,r r / 20. r▪ / ✓ / r▪ r ✓r 27/12 25 ,• r ✓ /133/12 30 • 0 35 3' F1g. 2 LEGEND: I0oES: Sandy clay "topsoil", organics, moist, brawn. Clay, sandy, sandstone pieces and clayey sand lenses, stiff to very stiff, moist, brown, rust. (CL) Sancistone be:kook, ciaystane lenses, hard to very hard, mos`, oliva, gray, tan. Drive sample. The symbol 23/12 indicates that 23 blows of o 140 pound hammer failing 30 inches were required to drive a 2.5 inch 0.0. California sampler 12 inches. 1. Exploratory borings were drilled on March 13, 2008 with 4 --inch diameter, solid—stem auger and a track—mounted drill rig. Exploratory borings were backfilled immediately after drilling operations were completed. 2. Locations of exploratory borings are approximate. 3. No free ground water was found in our exploratory borings at the time of drilling. 4. These exploratory borings are subject to the explanations, limitations and conclusions as contained in this report. SUMMARY LOGS OF EXPLORATORY BORINGS Project No. GS05164-125 Fig. 3 NOT TO SCALE ; , I , ,t I II I 1 • • , ; . - -1! ilk i T ! 1 i ! I, Structural Fill Configuration Project No. 3805164-125 Fig. 4 Wagon Wheel Consulting, Inc. Hower Express Compen9SO4- • • APPENDIX A LABORATORY TEST RESULTS WAGON WHEEL CONSUL—LNG, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR Cr_ (T PROJECT NO. GSII51B4.125 5:1GS05d64.D01l112512. RodertaiGS05161 125 R1.doc COMPRESSION % EXPANSION 1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 5 -e 7 8 10 -11 -12 -13 0.1 1.0 APPLIED PRESSURE - KSF Sample of CLAY, VERY SANDY (CO From TH-2 AT 4 FEET WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR PROJECT NO. G505064-115 S:1G5451G4.01:012516 Cafcs4GSo51&1.Swsil.xis 10 10D DRY UNIT WEIGHT= 99 PCF MOIS`; URE CON TENT = 5.6 % Swell Consolidation Test Results FIG. A-1 I ADDITIONAL P COMPRESSION UNDER —. __ 1f _ I _ _. t - _-- - — — d CONSTANT WETTING PRESSURE DUE TO 1 ! I 1 11 J 0 fi I © I r I1 0.1 1.0 APPLIED PRESSURE - KSF Sample of CLAY, VERY SANDY (CO From TH-2 AT 4 FEET WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR PROJECT NO. G505064-115 S:1G5451G4.01:012516 Cafcs4GSo51&1.Swsil.xis 10 10D DRY UNIT WEIGHT= 99 PCF MOIS`; URE CON TENT = 5.6 % Swell Consolidation Test Results FIG. A-1 COMPRESSION % EXPANSION 7 1 5 4 3 2 0 -2 -3 -4 5 -5 7 -5 Y , r I I— 1 ;Fell " ' I — I j I r I ADDITIONAL CONSTANT I WETTING } p � b 1 COMPRESSION UNDER PRESSURE DUE TO � V i L I i —I 1 --ti-----t- 11 i1 NH 1 ' J CI I ! f ! � G,1 APPLIED PRESSURE - KSF Sample Of CLAY, SANDY (CL) From TH-4 AT 9 FEET 1.0 WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR PROJECT 140. GSD5064-115 S:1GSfl5181.940112516. CiI:a16SO5161,3well.x Is TC 1©C DRY UNIT WEIGHT= 111 PCF MOISTURE CONTENT= 5.1 % Swell Consolidation Test Results FIG. A-2 COMPRESSION % EXPANSION 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -7 9 •10 -12 13 14 -15 16 10 APPLIED PRESSURE - KSF Sorrlpte of CLAY, VERY SANDY (CL) From TH-5 AT 4 FEET WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR PROJECT NO. GS05064.115 S:IGS361C4.9IO125 . Ca fra1G1308194.Swailadf 1D 1Cf1 DRY UNIT WEIGHT= 94 PCF MOISTURE CONTENT= 5.4 % Swell Consolidation Test Results FIG. A-3 1 11 ,:. 1.. , —^'I ADDITmONAL CONSTANT WETTING PRESSURE COMPRESSION UNDER DUE TO r h I -..� _ r: u I . I , , 0 ' t I1 f Ij r i I � I k I 4 t I I � I I I J i h � . b � � 10 APPLIED PRESSURE - KSF Sorrlpte of CLAY, VERY SANDY (CL) From TH-5 AT 4 FEET WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING, INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR PROJECT NO. GS05064.115 S:IGS361C4.9IO125 . Ca fra1G1308194.Swailadf 1D 1Cf1 DRY UNIT WEIGHT= 94 PCF MOISTURE CONTENT= 5.4 % Swell Consolidation Test Results FIG. A-3 7 0 4 3 2 -1 3 Q (7 z 0. ' x w 0-6 N rew -8 0 0'• 1.a APPLIED PRESSURE - KSF Sample of CLAY, SANDY (CL) From TH-6 AT 9 FEET WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING,INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR PROJECT NO. G505084-115 S:1C.806164.00011739b. CalcstGS3M164.3weL Js 10 DRY UNIT WEIGHT= MOISTURE CONTENT= 10C 114 PCF 6.8 % Swell Consolidation Test Results FIG. A-4 EXPANSION UNDER CONSTANT 1 I PRESSURE DUE TO WETTING 1 I I � {, I 1 �I 1-11 0'• 1.a APPLIED PRESSURE - KSF Sample of CLAY, SANDY (CL) From TH-6 AT 9 FEET WAGON WHEEL CONSULTING,INC. HOOVER EXPRESS COMPRESSOR PROJECT NO. G505084-115 S:1C.806164.00011739b. CalcstGS3M164.3weL Js 10 DRY UNIT WEIGHT= MOISTURE CONTENT= 10C 114 PCF 6.8 % Swell Consolidation Test Results FIG. A-4 • • TABLE A -I SUMMARY OF LABORATORY TESTING PROJECT NO. GS05164-125 • LOT DEPTH (FEET) MOISTURE CONTENT (%) DRY DENSITY (PCF) ATTERBERG LIMITS SWELL TEST RESULTS' PASSING SOLUBLE SULFATES (%) - DESCRIPTION LIQUID LIMIT (%) PLASTICITY INDEX (%) SWELL (%) SWELL. PRESSURE (PSF) NO. 200 SIEVE (%) TH-2 4 5.6 99 -4.3 _ CLAY, SANDY (CI.) TH-2 14 3.9 125 CLAY, SANDY (CL) TH-3 9 8.0 108 0.900 CLAY, SANDY (CL) TH-3 24 9.0 99 - CLAY, SANDY CL) Ti --4 9 5.1 111 -0.4 _ CLAY, SANDY (CL) CLAY, SANDY (CL) CLAY, SANDY (CL) TI -1-4 14 6.2 6.8 117 125 TH-4 19 TH-5 4 5.4 94 -4.7 - CLAY, SANDY (CL) TH-5 14 8.5 102 30 14 2.4 3000 67 CLAY, SANDY (CL) CLAY, SANDY (CL) TH-6 _ 9 6.8 114 TH-6 24 6.5 124 32 15 38 SAND, CLAYEY (SC) TH-7 4 6.8 0.062 CLAY, SANDY (CL) TH-7 21 7.9 121 - CLAY, SANDY (CL) - - L SWELL MEASURED WITH 1000 PSF APPLIED PRESSURE, OR ESTIMATED IN-SITU OVERBURDEN PRESSURE. NEGATIVE VALUE INDICATES COMPRESSION, Page 1 of 1