Appendix B - Best Management Practices (BMPs)

Transcription

1 Appendix B - Best Management Practices (BMPs) Best Management Practices (BMPs) are the standard operating procedures used for the protection of water quality. They are not intended as mitigation measures. They are the primary mechanism to enable the achievement of water quality standards (USDA, 1998) and are designed to minimize or eliminate non-point source (NPS) pollution, such as sedimentation or solar heating, to streams that may result from forest management practices. The application of BMPs to management activities is mandatory. BMPs are selected based on site-specific characteristics, and must include implementation and effectiveness monitoring. Memorandum of Understanding Number 02-MU between the USDA Forest Service and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (USDA and ODEQ, 2002) states that it is the responsibility of the Forest to implement site specific BMPs as specified in the Forest Service R6 General Water Quality Best Management Practices document and standards and guidelines in Forest Plans and amendments to these plans. BMPs relating to the management of National Forest System lands are contained in the document General Water Quality Best Management Practices (USDA, 1998). The general BMPs are action initiating mechanisms that call for the development of detailed project level, site-specific BMP prescriptions to protect beneficial uses and meet water quality objectives. Inherent in prescribing project-level management requirements is recognition of specific water quality objectives which the BMPs are designed to achieve. Note that the BMP language is dated in places. In particular, Stream Management Unit language refers to riparian buffers. Timber BMPs Timber harvesting and reforestation are the culmination of a timber resource assessment, an environmental analysis, and detailed project planning. Activities consist of felling, bucking, skidding, yarding, loading, and hauling; site preparation; tree planting, and other activities associated with stand establishment. The environmental analysis requires interdisciplinary interaction and coordination before an Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) are written. T-1. Title: Timber Sale Planning Process Objective: To introduce water quality and hydrologic considerations into the timber sale planning process. Explanation: The timber sale planning process identified problems and provides for administrative controls, corrective treatments, and preventive measures. This process defines and estimates the potential changes to water quality and instream beneficial uses. An analysis of cumulative watershed effects is also completed. The result is an EA or EIS and a sale plan or analysis files. These documents will describe how to avoid potential damage during and following the sale layout and subsequent logging operations. Mitigation of damaging effects for those treated areas where damage is unavoidable will be required. The EA or EIS will also preclude treatment of environmentally sensitive areas where damage from proposed treatments cannot be mitigated to conform to Federal, State and Local water quality criteria. Implementation and Responsibility: Hydrologists, fish biologists, geologists, and soil scientists evaluate watershed characteristics and estimate response to proposed timber harvest and related activities. The timber sale project is designed to include site-specific prescriptions for each area 1

2 of water quality concern. The subsequent TSC will include provisions to meet water quality criteria and other resource protection requirements as provided by the EA or EIS. Monitoring: As described for the remaining Timber, Road System, Watershed, Vegetative Manipulation, and Fire Suppression and Fuel Management BMPs, as well as Forest EA reviews of timber sales. T-2. Title: Timber Harvest Unit Design Objective: To ensure that timber harvest unit design will secure favorable conditions of water flow, water quality and fish habitat. Explanation: This is an administrative and preventative practice. The proposed timber harvest units are evaluated to estimate the response of the watersheds involved to the proposed timber sale. This includes examining the ability of the watershed to absorb the impacts of the proposed harvest. Characteristics to be evaluated can include the recovery from past harvests; wildfire; the allowable size that can be harvested, the protection of channels; the number, size, and location of harvest units; estimated location and size of roads and skid trails; logging system design; and the potential natural recovery rate of the watershed. Where adverse impacts on the water resource can result, the harvest unit design is modified, and/or watershed treatment measures are applied to accelerate the natural recovery rate. Implementation and Responsibility: The hydrologic survey and evaluation of proposed timber harvest is accomplished through the interdisciplinary process of timber sale planning. Prescriptions to assure acceptable watershed conditions are incorporated into the EA, sale plan, or analysis files. On-the-ground accomplishment of the EA or sale plan direction is carried out by the Sale Preparation Forester, the Sale Administrator, and the administrator of post-sale slash disposal and cultural activities, with follow-up review by qualified resource specialists (hydrologists, fisheries biologists, soil scientists, and geologists). The need for water quality monitoring is identified in the EA or EIS when necessary for water quality control. Periodic EA (NEPA) field reviews evaluate timber harvest unit design. Monitoring: See implementation and responsibilities section. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-3. Title: Use of Erosion Potential Assessment for Timber Harvest Unit Design Objective: To prevent downstream water quality degradation by the timely identification of areas with high erosion potential and adjustment of harvest unit design. Explanation: This is a preventative practice. The potential for erosion and mass wasting for an area are estimated by evaluating the soil, topography, rock type, drainage patterns, water conditions, and plant community. Where the potential for erosion and mass wasting is high, special practices and mitigation measures would be applied. Where the potential is low to moderate, some special practices and mitigation measures would be applied. Where the potential is low to moderate, some special practices and mitigation measures would be applied, but generally fewer than for areas having high erosion and mass wasting potential. Implementation and Responsibility: The determination of the potential for erosion and mass wasting is part of the pre-sale planning process and is evaluated for each timber harvest unit by a watershed specialist. The interdisciplinary team then uses the information to help design the timber sale. Monitoring: Watershed specialists will evaluate the post-harvest condition of selected harvest units. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. 2

3 T-4. Title: Use of Sale Area Maps for Designating Water Quality Protection Needs Objective: To delineate the location of protection areas and available water sources as a guide for both the Purchaser and the Sale Administrator, and to ensure their recognition and proper consideration and protection on the ground. Explanation: The following features are designated on the Sale Area Map, which is an integral part of the TSC. a. Location of stream courses to be protected b. Wetlands (meadows, lakes, bogs, etc.), if any, to be protected c. Boundaries of harvest units d. Specified roads e. Roads where log hauling is prohibited or restricted f. Structural improvements g. Areas for different skidding, felling, and methods h. Sources of rock for road work rip rapping, etc. i. Water sources available for Purchaser's use j. Other features required by Division "C" contract provisions This is an administrative and preventative practice. Implementation and Responsibility: The interdisciplinary team identifies and delineates these and other features on maps which are included in the sale plan or analysis files, along with a discussion of each area. The Sale Preparation Forester includes them on the Sale Area Map at the time of contract preparation. The areas are reviewed on-the-ground by the Purchaser and the Sale Administrator prior to harvesting. Monitoring: The Sale Area Map is checked by the Sale Preparation Forester, engineers, and watershed specialists to assure accuracy. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-5. Title: Limiting the Operating Period of Timber Sale Activities Objective: To ensure that the Purchaser conducts operations in a timely manner, within the time period specified in the Timber Sale Contract (TSC). Explanation: The TSC specifies a Normal Operating Season, during which, operations may generally proceed without resource damage. Operations are permitted outside the Normal Operating Season only when they can be conducted without damage to soil, water, and other resources. Where determined to be necessary through the environmental analysis, the TSC will limit operations to specific periods or weather conditions. Operations are not permitted to continue if damage will occur. Implementation and Responsibility: Limited operating periods are identified and recommended during the Timber Sale Planning Process by the interdisciplinary team and followed through the life of the timber sale primarily by the Sale Administrator. Monitoring: During implementation of timber sale activities by the Sale Administrator, Forest Service Representative (FSR), engineers, and watershed specialists. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. 3

4 T-7 Title: Streamside Management Unit Designation Objective: To designate a riparian area or zone along streams and wetlands where prescriptions are made that will minimize potential adverse effects of nearby logging and related land disturbance activities on water quality and beneficial uses. Explanation: As a preventive measure, roads, skid trails, landings and other timber harvesting facilities will be kept at a prescribed distance from designated stream courses (see Road System BMPs R-12, and R-14 for stream crossing BMPs). Timber harvesting prescriptions are modified so as to achieve objectives for water quality and riparian dependent resources. Modifications may include retention of specified trees and special felling and yarding practices designed to minimize potential damage (see Timber BMP's T-2, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16). Factors such as stream class, channel aspect, channel stability, vegetative composition, side slope steepness, slope stability, and surface erosion hazard are considered in determining the constraints of activities and width of Streamside Management Units (SMUs). Fisheries habitat condition and its estimated response to the proposed timber sale are also evaluated in determining the need for and width of the SMU. The streamside management unit is not always a zone of exclusion, but an area of special management consideration because of its high resource values. It is an area which acts as an effective filter and absorptive zone for sediment; maintains shade; protects aquatic and terrestrial riparian habitats; protects the channel and streambanks; and promotes floodplain stability; and provides a source of large woody debris for stream channel stability and regulation of sediment movement Implementation and Responsibility: The SMU requirements are identified by an interdisciplinary team during the environmental analysis. The timber sale project is designed to include site-specific BMP prescriptions for the prevention of sedimentation and other stream damage from logging debris. The TSC will be designed to implement the SMU prescriptions and areas of avoidance. The Sale Preparation Forester is responsible for the inclusion of the special management areas in the TSC and Sale Area Map, as identified in the EA or EIS and analysis files. The Sale Administrator is responsible for TSC compliance during harvest operations. Monitoring: Specialists will assist in evaluating the effectiveness of this BMP. EA (NEPA) field reviews will also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of this BMP. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-8. Title: Streamcourse Protection (Implementation and Enforcement) Objective: (1) To protect the natural flow of streams, (2) to provide unobstructed passage of storm flows, and (3) to prevent sediment and other pollutants from entering streams. Explanation: This management practice employs administrative, preventive, and corrective measures to meet the objectives. The following points are fundamental to protecting streams and streamcourses: a. Location, method, and timing of streamcourse crossings must be agreed to prior to construction. This is done when locations of skid trails, tractor roads, and temporary roads are agreed on by the Forest Service and the Purchaser. b. Purchaser shall repair all unavoidable damage to a streamcourse, including damage to banks and channel, to the extent practicable. 4

5 c. All project debris shall be removed from streamcourses, unless otherwise agreed, and in an agreed manner that will cause the least disturbance. d. Equipment shall not operate within SMUs or protected streamcourses, unless otherwise agreed, and in an agreed manner that will cause the least disturbance. e. Equipment is permitted to enter streamside areas only at locations agreed to be the Sale Administrator and the Purchaser. f. Water bars and other erosion control structures will be located so as to prevent water and sediment from being channeled into streamcourses, and to dissipate concentrated flows. Implementation and Responsibility: The Sale Administrator works with the Purchaser's representative to ensure that the TSC provisions covering the above items are carried out on the ground. Specialists can be called upon to help the Sale Administrator with decisions. Monitoring: Specialists will assist in evaluating the effectiveness of this BMP. EA (NEPA) field reviews will also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of this BMP. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-9. Title: Determining Tractor Loggable Ground Objective: To protect water quality from degradation caused by tractor logging ground disturbance. Explanation: Tractor logging is restricted to lands that can be harvested with a minimum of soil compaction and erosion. Factors considered when selecting tractor operable land are: slope, topography, soil texture, soil drainage, and drainage pattern. Implementation and Responsibility: Land suitable for tractor logging is identified in the pre-sale phase of the timber sale planning process. Provisions in the TSC specify the areas and conditions upon which tractors can operate. Requirements governing tractor operations are incorporated in the TSC. Monitoring: The Sale Administrator oversees the operation to ensure compliance. Specialists conducted field evaluations of selected tractor logging units. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan T-10. Title: Log Landing Location Objective: To locate landings in such a way as to minimize creation of hazardous watershed conditions. Explanation: All landings will be approved prior to clearing, or located by the Forest Service, under provisions of the TSC. The following criteria are used in evaluating landings: a. The cleared or excavated size of landings shall not exceed that needed for safe and efficient yarding and loading operations. b. Landing locations are selected on the basis of the least amount of excavation and erosion potential, where side cast will neither enter drainages nor damage other sensitive areas. c. Landings are located so that designated timber can be yarded with minimal disturbance to the channels, or violating the streamside management unit requirements. Implementation and Responsibility: The majority of landings are constructed by the Forest Service during road construction of specified roads. The Sale Administrator ensures that the landings are located and constructed according to the TSC. 5

6 Monitoring: Watershed specialists will assist in evaluating the effectiveness of this BMP. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan T-11. Title: Tractor Skid Trail Location and Design Objective: To minimize the area compacted, erosion, and runoff water. Explanation: Factors that are considered in the design and location of skid trails include size of logs, slope, aspect, soil drainage and stability, exposure, SMUs, meadows, and other factors that affect compaction, erosion, runoff, and sediment yield. The careful control of skidding patterns can minimize on-site compaction and off-site damage Some complementary methods of protecting water quality when tractor yarding are: a. End-Lining: This method involves winching the log directly out of the sensitive areas while keeping the tractor outside of the sensitive area. Bull line is pulled from the tractor to each log. b. Felling To The Lead: This method involves felling trees toward a predetermined skid pattern and away from the sensitive areas. Soil disturbance and compaction are consequently lessened and residual stand and site damage is minimized. Tractor use is limited to skid trails. Implementation and Responsibility: Sensitive areas, including steep and unstable ground, drainages, and high water table soils are identified in silvicultural prescriptions and logging plans. Prescriptions, including skid trail patterns, may be included in the TSC and on the Timber Sale Map. The Sale Administrator executes the prescription on-the-ground by locating the skid trails with the timber Purchaser or by agreeing to the Purchaser's proposed locations prior to construction. Monitoring: The Sale Administrator observes operations and watershed specialists visually monitor implementation of this BMP periodically throughout implementation. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan T-13. Title: Erosion Prevention and Control Measures During Timber Sale Operations Objective: To ensure that the Purchaser's operations shall be conducted to minimize soil erosion. Explanation: Timber is purchased by individuals or companies who either harvest the timber themselves or contract harvest to other parties. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that purchasers understand and adhere to water quality prescriptions specified in the timber sale planning process. This is accomplished by setting forth the Purchaser's responsibilities in the TSC. Implementation and Responsibility: Equipment shall not be operated when ground conditions are such that excessive damage will result. The kinds and intensity of control work done by Purchaser shall be adjusted to ground and weather conditions and the need for controlling runoff. Erosion control work shall be kept current immediately preceding expected seasonal periods of precipitation or runoff. The Sale Administrator and Forest Service Representative oversee implementation by the purchaser. Specialists are available for advice as needed. Monitoring: In addition to responsibilities for implementation described above, watershed specialists will evaluate the effectiveness of seasonal erosion control work. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. 6

7 T-14. Title: Revegetation of Areas Disturbed by Harvest Activities Objective: To establish a vegetative cover on disturbed sites to prevent erosion and sedimentation. Explanation: Where soil has been severely disturbed by the Purchaser s operations, and the establishment of vegetation/cover is needed to minimize erosion and protect water quality, the Purchaser shall take the appropriate measures normally used to establish an adequate cover of grass or other vegetation, including the application of seed, mulch, and fertilizer as necessary, or take other agreed upon stabilization measures. This measure is applied in contracts where it is expected that disturbed soils in parts of the sale area will require vegetative cover for stabilization and the problems will not be mitigated by other contracts provisions. Implementation and Responsibility: An estimate of the need is included in the sale plan or sale planning records, and in the timber sale appraisal. Where the establishment of vegetation is needed, appropriate language must be included in the TSC. The Forest Service shall annually designate on the ground the disturbed soils, such as logging areas and temporary roads that must be treated. The Forest Service shall provide requirements as to soil preparation and the application of suitable seed mixtures, mulch, and fertilizer, and the timing of such work. It is the responsibility of the Sale Administrator to make sure that revegetation work is done correctly and in a timely manner. Monitoring: Watershed specialists will assist the Sale Administrator during implementation and also in evaluating the effectiveness of this BMP. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-15. Title: Log Landing Erosion Prevention and Control Objective: To reduce the impacts of erosion and subsequent sedimentation, on log landings, by use of mitigating measures. Explanation: This practice uses administrative, preventive, and corrective controls to meet the objective. The Sale Preparation or Planning Forester and Sale Administrator assess the need for stabilization, with watershed specialist input as needed. Implementation and Responsibility: TSC requirements provide for erosion prevention and control measures on all landings. Provisions are made in the TSC for landings to have proper drainage. After landings have served the Purchaser's purpose, the Purchaser shall ditch or slope the landings to permit the drainage and dispersion of water. Provisions are also made for revegetation, if necessary. The specific work needed on each landing will depend on the actual ground conditions. It is the responsibility of the Sale Administrator to ensure that this practice is properly implemented on the ground. Monitoring: Watershed specialists will assist in evaluating the effectiveness of this BMP. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-16. Title: Erosion Control on Skid Trails Objective: To protect water quality by minimizing erosion and sedimentation derived from skid trails. Explanation: This practice employs preventive controls to reach the objective 7

8 The TSC requires the installation of erosion control measures on skid trails, tractor roads, and temporary roads. Normally, the work involves constructing cross ditches and water spreading ditches. Other methods such as backblading may be agreed to in lieu of cross drains. Grass seeding may also be required in the TSC. These areas are designated on the ground annually as logging and temporary access construction progresses. Implementation and Responsibility: Location of all erosion control measures are designated and agreed to on the ground by the Sale Administrator. The Purchaser is obligated to complete and maintain erosion control work specified in contract provisions. The Sale Administrator ensures that the Purchaser completes and maintains the erosion control work specified in the TSC. Monitoring: Watershed specialists assist the Sale Administrator, as needed, with on-going operations and also evaluate the effectiveness of this BMP. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-17. Title: Meadow Protection during Timber Harvesting Objective: To avoid locating roads, landings, and skid trails in meadows. Explanation: This is an administrative and preventive action To protect watershed and wildlife values, roads should not be located in meadows. Vehicular or skidding equipment should not be used in meadows. Implementation and Responsibility: The concerns and constraints mentioned above are set forth in TSC requirements and administered by the Sale Administrator. Monitoring: Watershed specialists will assist in evaluating the effectiveness of this BMP. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-18. Title: Erosion Control Structure Maintenance Objective: To ensure that the constructed erosion control structures are stabilized and working. Explanation: Erosion control structures are only effective when they are in good repair and stable condition. Once the erosion control structures are constructed and seeded, there is a possibility that they may not become adequately vegetated or they may become damaged by subsequent harvest activities. It is necessary to provide follow-up inspection and structural maintenance in order to avoid these problems and ensure adequate erosion control. Implementation and Responsibility: During the period of the TSC, the Purchaser shall provide maintenance of soil erosion control structures constructed by the Purchaser. The Sale Administrator oversees the Purchaser s implementation of this BMP. After one-year, erosion control structure maintenance work may be accompanied through watershed restoration practices by the Forest Service. Monitoring: Watershed specialists will evaluate the effectiveness of the erosion control structures and recommend additional maintenance or erosion control work. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-19. Title: Acceptance of Timber Sale Erosion Control Measures before Sale Closure Objective: To assure the adequacy of required erosion control work on timber sales. Explanation: The effectiveness of soil erosion prevention and control measures is determined by the results found after sale areas have been exposed one or more years to the elements. Although a careful check is required before a timber sale is closed to assure that planned erosion work has been completed to the standard prescribed, the erosion prevention work done in previous years 8

9 should be periodically inspected during the life of the timber sale. These inspections will help determine whether the planned work was adequate, if maintenance work is needed, the practicability of the various treatments used, and the necessity for modifying present standards or procedures. Implementation and Responsibility: Specific requirements for erosion control are included in each TSC. Sale Administrators, with assistance as needed from watershed specialists, will ensure erosion control measures conform to the applicable provisions. Monitoring: Watershed specialists will evaluate the effectiveness of the soil erosion prevention and control measures. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-21. Title: Servicing and Refueling of Equipment Objective: To prevent pollutants such as fuels, lubricants, bitumens, raw sewage, wash water, and other harmful materials from being discharged into or near rivers, streams, and impoundments or into natural or man-made channels leading thereto. Explanation: During servicing or refueling, pollutants from logging or road construction equipment may in some instances, enter a watercourse. This threat is minimized by selecting service and refueling areas well away from wet areas and surface water, and by using berms around such sites to contain spills. A Spill Prevention and Control and Countermeasures (SPCC) Plan, certified by a registered professional engineer, is required if the volume of fuels exceeds 660 gallons in a single container or if total storage at a site exceeds 1320 gallons (see Watershed BMP W-5). Implementation and Responsibility: The COR, ER, or Sale Administrator will designate the location, size and allowable uses of service and refueling areas. They will also be aware of emergency notification procedures and actions to be taken in the case of a hazardous substance spill. Monitoring: Watershed specialists will assist in evaluating the effectiveness of this BMP. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. T-22. Title: Modification of the TSC Objective: To modify the TSC if new circumstances or conditions arise and indicate that the timber sale will irreversibly damage soil, water, or watershed values. Explanation: Once timber sales are sold, they are harvested as planned via the TSC. At times, however, it may be necessary to modify a TSC when it is determined that operations would cause serious environmental damage. If new evidence indicates that unacceptable damage is likely to occur, an interdisciplinary team will be assigned to assess the evidence and implications. The EA or EIS prepared for the timber sale may then be amended to reflect the findings of the interdisciplinary team. The team will make recommendations to the appropriate line officer on whether the timber sale, as currently planned, will: (1) irreversibly damage soil, water or watershed conditions, or (2) inadequately protect streams, streambanks, shorelines, lakes, wetlands, and other bodies of water from detrimental changes in water temperatures, blockages of watercourses, and deposits of sediment. Implementation and Responsibility: If the timber sale, as determined by the appropriate line officer, will unacceptably affect watershed values, the sale will be modified to protect the watershed through agreement with the timber sale Purchaser; or, the contract may be terminated by the Chief of the Forest Service, if the Purchaser does not agree to the terms of the environmental modification. 9

10 Monitoring: EA (NEPA) review process. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. Road System BMPs R-2. Title: Erosion Control Plan Objective: To limit and mitigate erosion and sedimentation through effective planning prior to initiation of road construction activities and through effective contract administration during construction. Explanation: Land disturbing activities, such as road construction, usually result in short term erosion. By effectively planning for erosion control, sedimentation can be minimized. Prior to starting work, the Contractor submits a general plan which sets forth erosion control measures to be used. Operations cannot begin until the Forest Service has given written approval of the plan. The plan recognizes the mitigation measures required in the contract. All contracts specify that operations be scheduled and conducted to minimize erosion. Implementation and Responsibility: Mitigative measures are developed by design engineers, using an interdisciplinary approach; the measures are reflected in the contract's specifications and provisions. Erosion control is required by contract provisions common to road construction. The Erosion Control Plan is implemented by the Purchaser on timber sale contracts or Contractor on Public Works Projects. This practice is commonly applied to road construction or timber sales, but should be extended to apply to road construction for mining, recreation, special uses, and other roadwork on the Forest. Monitoring: Contract packet review, pre-work meetings, and operating plans along with tests, measurements, and observations by the COR or ER and watershed specialists. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-3. Title: Timing of Construction Activities Objective: To minimize erosion by conducting road construction operations during minimal runoff periods. Explanation: Since erosion and sedimentation are directly related to runoff, scheduling operations during periods when the probabilities for rain and runoff are low is an essential element of effective erosion control. Contractors are to schedule and conduct operations to minimize erosion and sedimentation. Equipment shall not be operated when ground conditions are such that excessive damage will result. Such conditions are identified by the COR or ER with the assistance of watershed specialists as needed. In addition, it is important to keep erosion control work as current as practicable with on-going operations during anticipated runoff periods. Construction of drainage facilities and performance of other contract work which contribute to the control of erosion and sedimentation shall be carried out in conjunction with earthwork operations, or as soon thereafter as practicable. The Contractor should limit the amount of area not graded to drain at any one time, and should install permanent drainage structures as soon as practical. Implementation and Responsibility: Mitigative measures are developed by design engineers, using an interdisciplinary approach and are incorporated into the contracts. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or Purchaser. Compliance with plans, specifications, and the operating plan is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the COR or ER through inspection. 10

11 Monitoring: Road construction review process. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-7. Title: Control of Surface Road Drainage Associated with Roads Objective: (1) To minimize the erosive effects of water concentrated by road drainage features, (2) To disperse runoff from or through the road, and (3) To minimize the sediment generated from the road. Explanation: A number of measures can be used, alone or in combination, to minimize possible detrimental effects of surface drainage. Culverts or bridges are normally placed at all natural drainages crossed by roads. Ditches, cross drains, water bars, dips, and grade sags are used to take water off the roadbed surface. Methods used to reduce erosion may include such things as energy dissipaters, aprons, downspouts, gabions, debris racks, and armoring ditches and drain inlets and outlets. Soil stabilization can help reduce sedimentation by reducing the effects of erosion on borrow and waste areas, on fill slopes, and on roadbeds. Dispersal of runoff from roads can be accomplished by rolling the grade, insloping with cross drains, outsloping, crowning, installation of water spreading ditches, contour trenching, etc. Dispersal of runoff can reduce peak downstream flows and keep water in its natural drainage area. Sediment travel can be reduced by installing measures such as sediment filters, settling ponds, and contour trenches. Implementation and Responsibility: Soil erosion classification, parent rock, steepness of side slopes, soil type, and road grades are used to assist in project location, design criteria, and mitigative measures used by designers for surface drainage. The data is determined using an interdisciplinary approach during the environmental analysis and road design process, and then placed in contracts. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or Purchaser. Compliance with plans, specifications, and operating plans is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the Forest Service COR or ER. Monitoring: Tag-line review, design review, and road construction review process. Watershed specialists assist with implementation and effectiveness evaluations. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-9. Title: Timely Erosion Control Measures on Incomplete Roads and Stream Crossing Projects Objective: To minimize erosion of and sedimentation from disturbed ground on incomplete projects. Explanation: The best drainage design can be ineffective if projects are incomplete at the end of the dry season. Affected areas can include roads, waste areas, tractor trails, skid trails, landings, fills, stream crossings, and bridge excavations. Preventive measures include: a. Removal of temporary culverts, culvert plugs, diversion dams or elevated stream crossing causeways; b. Installation of temporary culverts, side drains, flumes, cross drains, diversion ditches, energy dissipaters, dips, sediment basins, berms, debris racks or other facilities needed to control erosion; 11

12 c. Removal of debris, obstructions, and spoil material from channels and floodplains; d. Grass seeding, placement of hay bales, and mulching. Implementation and Responsibility: Protective measures must be applied to all areas of disturbed, erosion-prone, unprotected ground. When conditions permit operations outside of the dry season, erosion control measures must be kept current with ground disturbance, to the extent that the affected area can be rapidly "closed, if weather conditions deteriorate. Areas should not be abandoned for the winter with remedial measures incomplete. Project mitigative measures and location are developed and documented during the environmental analysis process using an interdisciplinary approach. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or Purchaser. Compliance with project plan criteria, contract specifications, and operating plans is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the COR or ER. Monitoring: Road construction review process and observation during and after project completion. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-11. Title: Control of Sidecast Material Objective: To minimize sediment production originating from sidecast material during road construction or maintenance. Explanation: Unconsolidated sidecast material can be difficult to stabilize and is susceptible to erosion, settling, and mass instability. Site-specific limits or controls for the sidecasting of uncompacted material should be developed through interdisciplinary input. Sidecasting is not an acceptable embankment placement alternative in areas where it will adversely affect water quality. Road widths on full bench ground should not include any width on side cast material without prior approval of the COR or ER. Waste areas should be located where excess material can be deposited and stabilized. The location and provisions for disposal of waste materials are included in construction contracts. During road maintenance operations, the deposition of sidecast material shall be done where it will not weaken stabilized slopes. Disposal of slide debris shall be done only at designated waste areas where deposited material can be stabilized or approved for sidecast placement, which may include the road surface and fill slopes. Implementation and Responsibility: Mitigative measures are developed through the environmental analysis and road design process, using an interdisciplinary approach, and are included in the project specifications, drawings, or guidelines. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or timber sale operator. Compliance with project criteria, contract specifications, and operating plans is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the COR, ER, or maintenance engineer. Contracts and guidelines address slide and slump repair, surface blading, and the placement of waste road material to reduce sidecasting. Monitoring: Road design review, progress review during construction, and maintenance activity reviews. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-12. Title: Control of Construction in Streamside Management Units Objective: To reduce the adverse effects of sediment from nearby roads on slope stability, vegetation, and aquatic resources along a designated stream zone by: 12

13 a. Acting as an effective filter for sediment generated by erosion from road fills, dust drift, and oil traces; b. Maintaining shade, riparian habitat (aquatic and terrestrial), and channel stabilizing effects; c. Maintaining the floodplain in an undisturbed condition. Explanation: Except at designated stream crossings, road fills, waste areas and other embankments must be kept at a distance from nearby streams. Factors such as stream class, channel stability, side slope, ground cover, and soil stability are taken into account in developing riparian and streamside management unit widths. It is vital to stabilize fill slopes and control water runoff to minimize the movement of sediment into streamside management units. Stream classes and streamside management unit widths are determined by an interdisciplinary process involving hydrologists, fisheries biologists, and other specialists as required. Implementation and Responsibility: Project location and mitigative measures are developed by the interdisciplinary team. Specifications are inserted into the contract by design engineers. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or Purchaser. Compliance with environmental criteria, contract specifications, and operating plans is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the COR or ER. Monitoring: NEPA field review process, tag line review, design review, and progress review during construction. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-13. Title: Diversion of Flows around Construction Sites Objective: (1) To ensure that all stream diversions are carefully planned, (2) to minimize downstream sedimentation, and (3) to restore stream channels to their natural grade, condition and alignment as soon as possible. Explanation: Flow must sometimes be guided or piped around streamside project sites. Typical examples are bridge and dam construction, or large culvert installation. Flow in stream courses will be diverted if the Forest Service deems it necessary due to expected sediment production during construction. Such a diverted flow shall be restored to the natural streamcourse as soon as practicable and, in any event, prior to normal periods of precipitation runoff. Implementation and Responsibility: This practice is required by contract provisions. The planning and design process will identify where diversions are required, and the design will include mitigative measures to protect fishery values and other downstream uses. The planning process may include consultation with other Federal, State, or local agencies and private parties to ensure that all factors are considered. Project location, bypass design, and mitigative measures are identified in the design and planning process to meet project criteria. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or Purchaser. Compliance with project criteria, contract specifications and operating plans is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the COR or ER. Monitoring: Progress review during construction and road construction review process. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. 13

14 R-14. Title: Bridge and Culvert Installation and Protection of Fisheries Objective: To minimize sedimentation and turbidity resulting from excavation for in-channel structures. Explanation: Excavation is a common requirement for the installation of bridges, culverts, and minor streamside structures such as weirs, check dams, or riprapping. Waste material developed in such operations should neither obstruct the streamcourse (including natural floodplains) nor the efficiency of the associated structures. Some preventive and corrective measures are: a. Excavated materials shall be kept out of live streams unless they are designed to be placed there. (i.e. riprap, etc.) b. Sediment producing materials will not be left within reach of anticipated flood flows. c. It is sometimes necessary to divert flowing water around work sites to minimize erosion and downstream sedimentation. d. When needed, bypass and access roads shall be suitably located with plans made for their subsequent obliteration and stabilization. For streams designated as important fisheries by Forest Service fisheries biologists, culverts will be installed only during flow periods specified in the project plan. Normally, this work would occur during minimum flow periods when water could be more easily diverted; work would not be allowed during salmonid fish spawning periods or before eggs have hatched and fingerlings have emerged from the gravel. Downstream sediment basins may be necessary to mitigate impacts on low flows. Implementation and Responsibility: Project location and mitigative measures are developed during the road design process to meet the project criteria, using an interdisciplinary approach when deemed necessary. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or Purchaser. Compliance with project criteria and the operating plan is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the Forest Service COR or ER through inspection. Monitoring: NEPA field review process, plan in hand review, design review, progress review during construction and road construction review process. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-15. Title: Disposal of Right-of-Way and Roadside Debris Objective: (1) To ensure that debris generated during road construction is kept out of streams and to prevent slash and debris from subsequently obstructing channels, and to (2) To prevent debris dams which obstruct fish passage, or which could result in downstream damage from high water flow surges after dam failure. Explanation: As a preventive measure, construction debris developed along roads near streams or in the streamside management unit shall be disposed of by the following means, as applicable: a. On-Site by: (1) Piling and Burning, (2) Chipping, (3) Burying, (4) Scattering, (5) Windrowing, and (6) Disposal in Cutting Units. b. Removal to agreed upon locations c. A combination of the above. d. Large limbs and cull logs may be bucked into manageable lengths and piled alongside the road for fuelwood. 14

15 Implementation and Responsibility: Disposal of right-of-way and roadside debris criteria are established in the project plan by the responsible forest official with the help of the interdisciplinary team. Disposal locations are identified in the project plan. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or Purchaser. Compliance with plans, specifications, and operating plans is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the Forest COR or ER. Changes to disposal locations may require other resource personnel or interdisciplinary team review. Monitoring: NEPA field review process, plan in hand review, progress review during construction, and road construction review process. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-16. Title: Specifying Riprap Composition Objective: To minimize sediment production associated with the installation and. utilization 'of riprap material. Explanation: Riprap is commonly used to armor streambanks and drainage ways from the erosive forces of flowing water. Riprap must be sized and installed in such a way that it effectively resists erosive water velocities. On occasion, this may require the use of filter blankets or other methods in conjunction with riprap to prevent the undermining of structures. Stone used for riprap should be free of weakly structured rock, soil, organic material, and materials of insufficient size, all of which are not resistant to streamflow and would only serve as sediment sources. Riprap is commonly used at outlets of drainage facilities in erodible soils for energy dissipation. The Corps of Engineers and Federal Highway Administration procedures are available for designing riprap structures. Implementation and Responsibility: Project location and mitigative measures are developed through the road design process to meet the constraints and requirements of the project plan. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or Purchaser. Compliance with project criteria and operating plans is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the Forest Service COR or ER. Monitoring: Design review, progress review during construction and road construction review process. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-17. Title: Water Source Development Consistent With Water Quality Protection Objective: To supply water for roads and fire protection while maintaining existing water quality. Explanation: Water source development is normally needed to supply water for road construction, dust control, and fire control. Water source development should aim toward the construction of durable, long-term water sources, rather than the construction of hasty, expedient developments. Permanently designed sources will normally result in the lowest, long-term impact to the affected streams. Dams and water holes are best reviewed by an interdisciplinary team, to help determine locations or processes that will minimize nonpoint source pollution. Other considerations in the development of water sources are: a. Downstream flow should not be reduced so as to detrimentally affect aquatic resources, fish passage, or other uses. b. Small, temporary facilities for gathering water should be constructed of sandbags containing sand, or of other materials and means which will not induce sediment in the stream. 15

16 c. Overflow should go directly back into the stream. d. All temporary facilities for gathering water should be removed prior to periods of seasonal precipitation. e. Road approaches to the water source development should be located to minimize potential impacts in the riparian zone. These approaches should be gravel surfaced to reduce the effects of spillage from washing sediment into the stream. Implementation and Responsibility: Sale Administrators and Engineering Representatives, in conjunction with a hydrologist and fisheries biologist, should evaluate streams in which water developments may be constructed. Water holes and other improvements shall be put into a condition, by the end of the dry season, to avoid resource damage. Project location and mitigative measures are developed by the design engineer, using the interdisciplinary approach to meet project criteria. Contracted projects are implemented by the Contractor or Purchaser. Compliance with project criteria and the operating plan is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the COR or ER. Monitoring: NEPA field review process, plan in hand review, design review, and road construction review process. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. R-18. Title: Maintenance of Roads Objective: To maintain roads in a manner which provides for water quality protection by controlling the placement of waste material, keeping drainage facilities open, and by repairing ruts and failures to reduce sedimentation and erosion. Explanation: Roads normally deteriorate because of use and weather impacts. This deterioration can be reduced through adequate maintenance or restriction of use. All system roads will be maintained to at least the basic custodial care required to maintain drainage, protect the road investment, and minimize damage to adjacent land and resources. This level is the normal prescription for roads that are closed to traffic. Higher levels of maintenance may be chosen to reflect greater use or resource protection. Additional maintenance measures could include resurfacing, out sloping, clearing debris from ditches and cross drains, restoration of ditches, and spot rocking. Annually, the Forest Service determines the maintenance needs of each road. Roads to be maintained by commercial users are considered. The process to accomplish maintenance activities are budgeted and contracted or scheduled for force account work. The Forest Service may collect deposits for commercial use to facilitate road maintenance and to equitably assess maintenance cost of each user. Implementation and Responsibility: The work is controlled by maintenance engineers who prioritize work to fit the budget and develop a road maintenance plan. MLs for each road are documented in road management objectives. Maintenance on timber sale roads is a Contractor responsibility commensurate with their use. On roads not maintained by active timber sales, the work is accomplished with Forest Service crews or by contract. Compliance with the contract provisions is determined with tests, measurements, and observations by the COR or ER. Monitoring: Timber Sale road package or Public Works Contract review and on the ground review of road maintenance practices on the Forest. Also see Forest Plan monitoring plan. 16