APPENDIX B Allotment Summaries

Transcription

1 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-1 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA APPENDIX B Allotment Summaries Objectives Common to All Allotments... B-2 Monitoring Common to All Allotments... B-2 Andrews Allotment B-5 Antelope Allotment B-7 Cormorant Allotment B-9 Diamond Bar Allotment B-11 Eagle Pt/Lone Tree Allotment B-13 Ewart Allotment B-15 Hinton Allotment B-16 Hockenbary Allotment B-18 Jennet Allotment B-21 Joseph Allotment B-23 Mallard Allotment B-24 McClaran Allotment B-26 Powderhorn Allotment B-28 Ranger Station Allotment B-32 Rio Vista Allotment B-34 River Allotment B-36 Sandlake Allotment B-38 Scholtes Allotment B-40 Snake Allotment B-41 South Falls Allotment B-42 Steer Creek Allotment B-48

2 B-2 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Objectives Common to All Allotments The objectives listed below apply to all twenty-one allotments. Additional management area direction is listed in the discussion for each of the following allotments: Hockenbary, Jennet, Mallard, Powderhorn, Ranger Station, Rio Vista, River, Sandlake, Scholtes, and Steer Creek. Objectives Livestock grazing will be authorized in a manner that will meet or make measurable progress toward the following resource objectives and desired conditions in a timely manner. For a complete discussion of applicable objectives and for additional Geographic Area direction objectives, see the 2001 LRMP, pages 2-11 to Rangeland Vegetation Composition 30-50% in Late Seral, 30-50% in Late Intermediate Seral, 1-20% Early Intermediate Seral, 1-20% Early Seral. The resulting vegetation will have a mix of seral stages designed to approximate evolutionary development of the northern Great Plains. The grassland ecosystem will feature a shifting mosaic of disturbance processes over space and time. Composition objectives are based on a mix of grass and grass-like species across a majority of the geographic area. This mix provides opportunity for meeting vegetation structure objectives and providing for floristic diversity. Rangeland Vegetation Structure 40-60% High, 40-60% Moderate, 0-5% Low. High vegetation structure can be achieved on moderate and highly productive soils dominated by mid and/or tall grasses (late or late intermediate seral stage composition). Grasslands on moderate to highly productive soils but dominated by short grass species generally do not have the capability to provide high vegetation structure unless management is changed to increase the composition of mid to tall grass species over a period of years or decades. MA 6.1 This management area will display low to high levels of livestock grazing developments (such as fences and water developments), oil and gas facilities, and roads. Livestock will graze most areas annually, but a spectrum of vegetation structure and a high degree of biodiversity will be present. Livestock grazing intensity will vary. Natural disturbance processes, including grazing and fire, will be used to emulate the natural range of variability of vegetation structure and composition. Rest and prescribed fire will be incorporated into the landscape. Prairie dog colonies will increase in some areas of the MA. When no substantial threat to high-value resources occurs, natural outbreaks of native insects and disease will be allowed to proceed without intervention. Monitoring Common to All Allotments Implementation (Short-Term) Monitoring Annual monitoring techniques will vary depending on the resources being monitored. Any of the following monitoring techniques may be used alone or in combination:

3 Annual Allotment Resource Inspections: Final Environmental Impact Statement B-3 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Compliance with Annual Operating Instructions (AOI): The AOIs clearly explain how each allotment is to be managed on a year-to-year basis. These instructions become part of the Term Grazing Permit for each permittee and responsibility for carrying out the instructions falls to the permit holder. The AOIs include instructions for pasture rotations, numbers to be grazed, pasture entrance and exit dates, standards for and determination of allowable use, improvement maintenance and construction, and general allotment operating procedures and actual use reporting. (Rangeland Analysis and Management Training Guide, RAMTG) Visual Obstruction (Robel Pole or Photo Guide): Herbage standing crop on grasslands is valued for multiple uses such as livestock production, wildlife food and cover, and soil protection against erosion. Assessment of grassland standing crop using a visual obstruction technique provides important information to plan livestock grazing management and to evaluate habitat conditions for various grassland wildlife species (Benkobi et al, 2000) Effectiveness (Long-Term Trend) Monitoring Probably the most important role of monitoring is to determine whether management is successful at moving rangeland resources towards desired conditions. Determining trend toward or away from allotment objectives allows rangeland managers to accurately determine the relative success of the management system and to adjust management to speed the accomplishment of objectives. Trend for a variety of rangeland resource parameters may need to be monitored. The long-term health of riparian and upland grass resources will be monitored at benchmark areas on each allotment using one or more of the following methods as needed: Similarity Index: These transects determine how closely the current plant community resembles either the potential natural community or some other reference community. Similarity index is expressed as a percentage of the reference community that is currently on an ecological site. Cover-Frequency Transects: These transects are used to monitor changes in canopy cover and relative frequency of herbaceous species. This method provides estimates of canopy cover by species, frequency, ground cover, and production by life form through replicated sampling of plot frame transects. Combining cover and frequency data helps overcome variability in the data due to climate changes. This method is mostly used to determine change in composition over time. (RAMTG) Ocular Plot: Similar to Cover-Frequency, but limited to collecting canopy cover by species, ground cover and life form. (RAMTG)

4 B-4 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Sandhills Defoliation Response Index System (SanDris): Integrates Probable effects of (1) Season of Defoliation, (2) Precipitation, and (3) End-of-Season Residual Herbage on next year s herbage production potentials. This system integrates the effects of variables that have the greatest collective influence on how vegetation responds to defoliation. This decision support tool is designed to: (1) Optimize herbage production each year. (2) Minimize the impact of pending drought. (3) Optimize the rate of vegetation recovery after drought. Photographs and Photo-points: Photographs are extremely useful in documenting change on the landscape. Photos should capture the essence of the plot, point or transect, including important characteristics and features of the site. Photos need to include enough of the horizon-line to allow the photographer to easily repeat the photograph from the same angle at a different time. The long-term health of riparian areas will be monitored at benchmark areas using one or more of the following methods as needed: Photographs and Photo-points: Photographs are extremely useful in documenting change on the landscape. Photos should capture the essence of the plot, point or transect, including important characteristics and features of the site. Photos should include enough of the horizon-line to allow the photographer to easily repeat the photograph from the same angle at a different time. If at any time, the results of monitoring indicate standards, guidelines, or desired resource conditions are not being achieved as predicted, then other adaptive management strategies will be implemented (i.e. herding, fencing, changes in AUMs, seasons of use, periods of rest, etc.) to move towards and/or meet desired conditions.

5 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-5 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Andrews Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 4, Exclosures 26.6 Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 4, Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands Shallow to Gravel Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.28 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).31* *-Proposed stocking rate is calculated using the combined AUMs of the Andrews and Hockenbary allotments. The average stocking rate of these two allotments is unchanged from the current stocking rate. Management Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 2,102 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 2,102. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Run in combination with Hockenbary allotment as a five-pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 Allotment Andrews East 6/1 7/ Andrews West 7/14 9/ Hockenbary West 9/4 9/ Hockenbary Middle 9/16 10/ Hockenbary East 10/3 10/ Total

6 B-6 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 2 Allotment Andrews West 6/1 7/ Hockenbary West 7/23 8/ Hockenbary Middle 8/4 8/ Hockenbary East 8/21 9/ Andrews East 9/10 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Allotment Hockenbary West 6/1 6/ Hockenbary Middle 6/13 6/ Hockenbary East 6/30 7/ Andrews East 7/20 8/ Andrews West 9/1 10/ Total Grazing Schedule Year 4 Allotment Hockenbary Middle 6/1 6/ Hockenbary East 6/18 7/ Andrews East 7/8 8/ Andrews West 8/20 10/ Hockenbary West 10/11 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 5 Allotment Hockenbary East 6/1 6/ Andrews East 6/21 8/ Andrews West 8/3 9/ Hockenbary West 9/24 10/ Hockenbary Middle 10/6 10/ Total

7 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-7 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Antelope Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres Total Allotment Acres 4,883 Exclosures - Management Areas % of Allotment MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 4, No new road construction 4, Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands Sandy lowland Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.36 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).36 Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 1,753 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 1,753. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Four pasture deferred rotation system. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 South1 6/1 7/ South2 7/3 8/ North1 8/4 9/ North2 9/17 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 South2 6/1 7/ North1 7/3 8/ North2 8/16 9/ South1 9/29 10/ Total

8 B-8 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 3 North1 6/1 7/ North2 7/15 8/ South1 8/28 9/ South2 6/1 7/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 4 North2 6/1 7/ South1 7/15 8/ South2 8/16 9/ North1 9/17 10/ Total

9 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-9 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Cormorant Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 3, Exclosures 29.8 Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 3, Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands Choppy sands Sandy lowland Subirrigated 7.2 Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.36 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).36 Management: Permitted season of use will be from May 15 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 1,285 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 1,285. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Four pasture deferred rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 Southwest 5/15 6/ Northwest 6/17 7/ Northeast 7/25 9/ Southeast 9/2 10/ Total 1,

10 B-10 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 2 Northwest 5/15 6/ Northeast 6/22 7/ Southeast 7/31 9/ Southwest 9/7 10/ Total 1, Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Northeast 5/15 6/ Southeast 6/23 7/ Southwest 7/31 9/ Northwest 9/2 10/ Total 1, Grazing Schedule -Year 4 Southeast 5/15 6/ Southwest 6/22 7/ Northwest 7/25 8/ Northeast 9/1 10/ Total 1,

11 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-11 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Diamond Bar Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 10, Exclosures Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 10, MA 3.64 Special Plant and Wildlife Habitat No new road construction 10, Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout 95.9 Sands 9, Sandy lowland Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.36 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).36 Additional Objectives for the Diamond Bar allotment: MA 3.64 Suitable habitat will be maintained or enhanced for specific plant and wildlife species, guilds, and communities. Riparian areas are managed so they maintain their hydrologic regimes. Hardwood draws and woodlands are characterized by broadleaf deciduous trees. Prairie landscapes will have a diversity of warm season and cool season grasses and forbs. Plant communities of high species diversity will act as a seed source for other areas within the landscape where diversity may be reduced. Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 3,817 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 3,817. Allowable season of use will vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Five pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s):

12 B-12 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 1 Northeast 6/1 6/ Northwest 6/29 7/ Middle 7/31 9/ Southwest 9/5 10/ Southeast 10/4 10/ Total ,722 Grazing Schedule -Year 2 Northwest 6/1 7/ Middle 7/3 8/ Southwest 8/8 9/ Southeast 9/6 10/ Northeast 10/3 10/ Total ,722 Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Middle 6/1 7/ Southwest 7/7 8/ Southeast 8/5 8/ Northeast 9/1 9/ Northwest 9/29 10/ Total ,722 Grazing Schedule -Year 4 Southwest 6/1 6/ Southeast 6/30 7/ Northeast 7/27 8/ Northwest 8/24 9/ Middle 9/25 10/ Total ,722 Grazing Schedule -Year 5 Southeast 6/1 6/ Northeast 6/28 7/ Northwest 7/26 8/ Middle 8/27 10/ Southwest 10/2 10/ Total ,722

13 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-13 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Eagle Pt/Lone Tree Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres Total Allotment Acres 7,253 % of Allotment Exclosures 10.1 Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 7, Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands Sandy lowland Comment Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.41 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).36 Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 2,607 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 2,607. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Five pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 1 6/15 6/ /1 8/ /2 9/ /2 10/ /2 10/ Total

14 B-14 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 2 2 6/15 7/ /17 8/ /17 9/ /16 10/ /15 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 3 5 6/15 7/ /16 8/ /15 9/ /13 9/ /29 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 4 3 6/15 7/ /15 8/ /16 8/ /29 9/ /30 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 5 4 6/15 7/ /14 7/ /30 8/ /31 9/ /1 10/ Total

15 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-15 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Ewart Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 2, Exclosures Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 2, No new road construction 2, Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands 2, Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.24 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).24 Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 551 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 551. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Two pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 West 6/3 8/ East 8/4 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 East 6/3 8/ West 8/21 10/ Total

16 B-16 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Hinton Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 2, Exclosures - Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 2, No new road construction 2, Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands Acres of Structure Suitable & Capable Acres (NFS Lands) 2, Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.41 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).41 Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 996 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 996. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Four pasture deferred rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 Southeast 6/1 7/ Northeast 7/7 8/ Northwest 8/12 9/ Southwest 9/22 10/ Total

17 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-17 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 2 Northeast 6/1 7/ Northwest 7/7 8/ Southwest 8/17 9/ Southeast 9/26 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Northwest 6/1 7/ Southwest 7/12 8/ Southeast 8/21 9/ Northeast 9/26 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 4 Southwest 6/1 7/ Southeast 7/11 8/ Northeast 8/16 9/ Northwest 9/21 10/ Total

18 B-18 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Hockenbary Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 2, Exclosures (Buckhorn Springs) Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 2, MA 3.64 Special Plant and Wildlife Habitat (Buckhorn Springs Exclosure) Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Sands Sandy 5.2 Savannah Shallow to gravel Wetland 1.04 Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.43 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).31* *-Proposed stocking rate is calculated using the combined AUMs of the Andrews and Hockenbary allotments. Additional Objectives for the Hockenbary Allotment MA 3.64 Suitable habitat will be maintained or enhanced for specific plant and wildlife species, guilds, and communities. Riparian areas are managed so they maintain their hydrologic regimes. Hardwood draws and woodlands are characterized by broadleaf deciduous trees. Prairie landscapes will have a diversity of warm season and cool season grasses and forbs. Plant communities of high species diversity will act as a seed source for other areas within the landscape where diversity may be reduced. Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 2,102 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 2,102. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Run in combination with the Andrews allotment as a five pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s):

19 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-19 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 1 Allotment Andrews East 6/1 7/ Andrews West 7/14 9/ Hockenbary West 9/4 9/ Hockenbary Middle 9/16 10/ Hockenbary East 10/3 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 Allotment Andrews West 6/1 7/ Hockenbary West 7/23 8/ Hockenbary Middle 8/4 8/ Hockenbary East 8/21 9/ Andrews East 9/10 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Allotment Hockenbary West 6/1 6/ Hockenbary Middle 6/13 6/ Hockenbary East 6/30 7/ Andrews East 7/20 8/ Andrews West 9/1 10/ Total Grazing Schedule Year 4 Allotment Hockenbary Middle 6/1 6/ Hockenbary East 6/18 7/ Andrews East 7/8 8/ Andrews West 8/20 10/ Hockenbary West 10/11 10/ Total

20 B-20 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 5 Allotment Hockenbary East 6/1 6/ Andrews East 6/21 8/ Andrews West 8/3 9/ Hockenbary West 9/24 10/ Hockenbary Middle 10/6 10/ Total

21 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-21 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Jennet Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 5, Exclosures Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 5, MA 3.64 Special Plant and Wildlife Habitat Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout 47.8 Sands Sandy 2.04 Sandy lowland Subirrigated 1 T Wetland 1 T Wet subirrigated 19.3 Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.40 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).37 Additional Objectives for the Jennet Allotment MA 3.64 Suitable habitat will be maintained or enhanced for specific plant and wildlife species, guilds, and communities. Riparian areas are managed so they maintain their hydrologic regimes. Hardwood draws and woodlands are characterized by broadleaf deciduous trees. Prairie landscapes will have a diversity of warm season and cool season grasses and forbs. Plant communities of high species diversity will act as a seed source for other areas within the landscape where diversity may be reduced. Management: Permitted season of use will be from May 13 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 2,038 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 2,038. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s):

22 B-22 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 1 Northeast 5/13 6/ Southwest 6/21 8/ Southeast 8/2 9/ Northwest 9/5 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 Southwest 5/13 6/ Southeast 6/24 7/ Northwest 7/28 9/ Northeast 9/23 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Southeast 5/13 6/ Northwest 6/16 8/ Northeast 8/12 9/ Southwest 9/20 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 4 Northwest 5/13 7/ Northeast 7/9 8/ Southwest 8/17 9/ Southeast 9/28 10/ Total

23 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-23 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Joseph Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 2, Exclosures - Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 2, Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout 18.8 Sands Shallow to gravel Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.31 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).31 Management: Permitted season of use will be from May 20 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 730 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 730. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Two pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 West 5/20 7/ East 7/24 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 East 5/20 8/ West 8/16 10/ Total

24 B-24 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Mallard Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres Exclosures Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis MA 3.64 Special Plant and Wildlife Habitat Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands Sandy lowland Wetlands-aquolls 6.3 Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.29 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).29 Additional Objectives for the Mallard Allotment MA 3.64: Suitable habitat will be maintained or enhanced for specific plant and wildlife species, guilds, and communities. Riparian areas are managed so they maintain their hydrologic regimes. Hardwood draws and woodlands are characterized by broadleaf deciduous trees. Prairie landscapes will have a diversity of warm season and cool season grasses and forbs. Plant communities of high species diversity will act as a seed source for other areas within the landscape where diversity may be reduced. Management: Permitted season of use will be from May 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 477 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 477. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Four pasture deferred rotation grazing system. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s):

25 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-25 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 1 NW 5/15 6/ NE 6/14 7/ SW 7/14 8/ SE 8/13 9/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 NE 5/15 6/ SW 6/14 7/ SE 7/14 8/ NW 8/13 9/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 3 SW 5/15 6/ SE 6/14 7/ NW 7/14 8/ NE 8/13 9/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 4 SE 5/15 6/ NW 6/14 7/ NE 7/14 8/ SW 8/13 9/ Total

26 B-26 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands McClaran Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres Exclosures 13.7 Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis No new road construction Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.28 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).26 Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 520 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 520. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Three pasture deferred rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 Northwest 6/1 7/ East 7/15 9/ Southwest 9/17 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 East 6/1 8/ Southwest 8/4 9/ Northwest 9/11 10/ Total

27 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-27 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Southwest 6/1 7/ Northwest 7/9 8/ East 8/22 10/ Total

28 B-28 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Powderhorn Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres Total Allotment Acres 16,599 % of Allotment Exclosures Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 16, MA 3.64 Special Plant and Wildlife Habitat Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands 14, Choppy sands Sandy lowland Subirrigated 17.1 Water 26.2 Wet land 69.4 Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.37 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).37 Additional Objectives for the Powderhorn Allotment MA 3.64 Suitable habitat will be maintained or enhanced for specific plant and wildlife species, guilds, and communities. Riparian areas are managed so they maintain their hydrologic regimes. Hardwood draws and woodlands are characterized by broadleaf deciduous trees. Prairie landscapes will have a diversity of warm season and cool season grasses and forbs. Plant communities of high species diversity will act as a seed source for other areas within the landscape where diversity may be reduced. Management: Permitted season of use will be from May 15 and Feb. 28, not to exceed 5,907 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 5,907. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. One four-pasture deferred rotation and one five-pasture deferred rotation with one pasture in each rotation winter grazed. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s):

29 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-29 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 1 (North) exclosure 5/16 5/23 85 E. HERON 5/24 7/ West Heron 7/29 9/ A 9/5 10/ B 10/29 10/ Total (South) D 5/16 6/ F 6/17 7/ E 7/26 9/ G 9/5 10/ Total Winter C 11/1 12/ B 12/15 2/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 (North) exclosure 5/16 5/23 85 West Heron 5/24 6/ A 7/1 8/ B 8/24 10/ Total (South) C 5/16 6/ E 6/27 8/ G 8/7 10/ F 10/2 10/ Total Winter F 11/1 11/ B 11/12 11/ D 11/20 12/ E. HERON 12/24 2/ Total

30 B-30 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 3 (North) exclosure 5/16 5/23 85 A 5/24 7/ B 7/17 10/ E. HERON 10/4 10/ Total (South) D 5/16 6/ G 6/17 8/ F 8/12 9/ E 9/20 10/ Total Winter E. HERON 11/1 11/ C 11/28 1/ West Heron 1/12 2/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 4 (North) exclosure 5/16 5/23 85 E. HERON 5/24 7/ West Heron 7/29 9/ A 9/5 10/ B 10/29 10/ Total (South) C 5/16 6/ F 6/29 8/ E 8/7 9/ G 9/17 10/ Total Winter G 11/1 11/ D 11/12 12/ B 12/15 2/ Total

31 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-31 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 5 (North) exclosure 5/16 5/23 85 West Heron 5/24 6/ A 7/1 8/ B 8/24 10/ Total (South) D 5/16 6/ E 6/17 7/ G 7/28 9/ F 9/22 10/ Total Winter B 11/1 11/ C 11/11 12/ E. HERON 12/25 2/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 6 (North) exclosure 5/16 5/23 85 A 5/24 7/ B 7/17 10/ E. HERON 10/6 10/ Total (South) C 5/16 6/ G 6/29 8/ F 8/24 10/ E 10/2 10/ Total Winter E 11/1 11/ E. HERON 11/14 12/ D 12/14 1/ West Heron 1/15 2/ Total

32 B-32 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Ranger Station Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 1, Exclosures Management Areas MA 2.1 Special Interest Area (trees) 1, MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout 5.3 Sands Sandy lowland Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.22 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).22 Additional Objectives for the Ranger Station Allotment MA 2.1(a) Special interest areas (SIAs) are managed to protect or enhance and, where appropriate, develop and interpret for public education and recreation, areas with unusual characteristics. Management emphasis is on recreation, scenery, and wildlife. Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 397 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 397. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Three pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 West 6/1 6/ East 6/24 7/ Seslar 7/31 9/ Total

33 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-33 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 2 East 6/1 7/ Seslar 7/8 9/ West 9/8 9/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Seslar 6/1 8/ West 8/2 8/ East 8/25 9/ Total

34 B-34 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Rio Vista Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres Exclosures Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis MA 3.64 Special Plant and Wildlife Habitat Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout 9.4 Sands Sandy Sandy lowland 6.3 Shallow to gravel Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.32 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).29 Additional Objectives for the Rio Vista Allotment MA 3.64 Suitable habitat will be maintained or enhanced for specific plant and wildlife species, guilds, and communities. Riparian areas are managed so they maintain their hydrologic regimes. Hardwood draws and woodlands are characterized by broadleaf deciduous trees. Prairie landscapes will have a diversity of warm season and cool season grasses and forbs. Plant communities of high species diversity will act as a seed source for other areas within the landscape where diversity may be reduced. Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 672 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 672. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Two pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s):

35 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-35 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 1 East 6/15 8/ West 8/10 11/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 West 6/15 9/ East 9/8 11/ Total

36 B-36 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands River Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres Exclosures - Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis MA 2.1 Special Interest Area (trees) No new road construction Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout 42.8 Sands Sandy lowland 45.8 Shallow to gravel Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.29 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).29 Additional Objectives for the River Allotment MA 2.1(a) Special interest areas (SIAs) are managed to protect or enhance and, where appropriate, develop and interpret for public education and recreation, areas with unusual characteristics. Management emphasis is on recreation, scenery, and wildlife. Management: Permitted season of use will be from May 21 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 1,615 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 1,615. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Two two-pasture rotations. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s):

37 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-37 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 1 South 5/21 8/ North 8/9 9/ Total Trees 5/21 7/ Heifer 7/12 9/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 North 5/21 7/ South 7/11 9/ Total Heifer 5/21 8/ Trees 8/8 9/ Total

38 B-38 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Sandlake Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres Exclosures Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis MA 3.64 Special Plant and Wildlife Habitat No new road construction Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Sands Sandy lowland Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.36 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).36 Additional Objectives for the Sandlake Allotment MA 3.64 Suitable habitat will be maintained or enhanced for specific plant and wildlife species, guilds, and communities. Riparian areas are managed so they maintain their hydrologic regimes. Hardwood draws and woodlands are characterized by broadleaf deciduous trees. Prairie landscapes will have a diversity of warm season and cool season grasses and forbs. Plant communities of high species diversity will act as a seed source for other areas within the landscape where diversity may be reduced. Management: Permitted season of use will be form May 15 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 1,454 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 1,454. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Implement a flash graze of not more than seven days in each pasture before the summer grazing season. Flash grazing will not occur after May 31. Three-pasture rotation with each pasture potentially being grazed twice each year. The Sand Lake exclosure will only be grazed when it is necessary to maintain the health of the plant community in the exclosure. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s):

39 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-39 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Grazing Schedule -Year 1 North 5/15 7/ Southwest 7/5 8/ Southeast 8/25 10/ Grazing Schedule -Year 2 Southwest 5/15 7/ Southeast 7/5 8/ North 8/25 10/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Southeast 5/15 7/ North 7/5 8/ Southwest 8/25 10/ Total

40 B-40 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Scholtes Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres Exclosures - Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis MA 2.1 Special Interest Area (trees) Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Sands Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.30 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).30 Additional Objectives for the Scholtes Allotment MA 2.1(a) - Special interest areas (SIAs) are managed to protect or enhance and, where appropriate, develop and interpret for public education and recreation, areas with unusual characteristics. Management emphasis is on recreation, scenery, and wildlife. Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 529 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 529. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Two pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 South 6/1 7/ North 7/30 9/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 North 6/1 8/ South 8/3 9/ Total

41 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-41 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Snake Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres Exclosures - Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Choppy Sands Sands Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.30 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).30 Management: Permitted season of use will be from June 1 and Dec. 31, not to exceed 680 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 680. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Two pasture rotation. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 West 6/1 7/ East 7/31 9/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 East 6/1 8/ West 8/2 9/ Total

42 B-42 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands South Falls Allotment Summary of Allotment Status Acres % of Allotment Total Allotment Acres 11, Exclosures 39.3 Management Areas MA 6.1 Rangeland with Broad Resource Emphasis 11, Acres of Ecological Sites/Community Blowout Choppy Sands Sands 11, Sandy 5 T Sandy lowland Comments Current Stocking Rate (Permitted) AUMs/ac.39 Proposed Stocking Rate (AUMs/ac).35 Management: Permitted season of use will be from May 11 and Feb 1, not to exceed 4,061 AUMs. Mature cows significantly heavier than 1,000 pounds will require an adjustment in authorized numbers and seasons to maintain actual AUMs at approximately 4,061. Allowable season of use may vary between Jan. 1 to Dec 31. Two 8-pasture rotation systems. Approximate rotation schedule (to be adjusted via the AOI based on monitoring results from the previous year(s): Grazing Schedule -Year 1 Rotation East GB 5/17 5/ ELT 5/23 5/ SE 5/27 6/ E1 6/4 6/ E2 6/14 7/ E3 7/5 7/ N3 7/26 8/ N4 8/24 10/ West XLW 5/17 5/ SW 5/24 6/ XLA 6/2 6/ W1 6/12 6/

43 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-43 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Rotation W2 6/20 7/ W3 7/13 7/ N1 7/27 9/ N2 9/6 10/ Winter GB 10/22 10/ ELT 10/31 11/ SE 11/6 11/ E1 11/15 11/ XLW 11/28 12/ SW 12/6 12/ XLA 12/15 12/ W1 12/24 1/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 2 Rotation East SE 5/17 5/ E1 5/25 6/ E2 6/5 6/ E3 6/12 6/ N3 6/19 7/ N4 7/18 8/ GB 8/28 9/ ELT 9/16 9/ West XLA 5/17 5/ W1 5/27 6/ W2 6/5 6/ W3 6/13 6/ N1 6/18 7/ N2 7/29 8/ XLW 8/26 9/ SW 9/13 10/ Winter SE 10/22 10/ E1 10/31 11/ E2 11/10 11/ E3 11/20 11/ XLA 11/30 12/ W1 12/10 12/ W2 12/18 12/ W3 12/28 1/ Total

44 B-44 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 3 Rotation East E2 5/17 5/ E3 5/25 6/ N3 6/2 6/ N4 6/13 6/ GB 6/27 7/ ELT 7/16 7/ SE 7/28 8/ E1 8/18 9/ West W2 5/17 5/ W3 5/26 6/ N1 6/1 6/ N2 6/14 6/ XLW 6/23 7/ SW 7/12 8/ XLA 8/4 8/ W1 8/28 9/ Winter E2 10/22 11/ E3 11/1 11/ N3 11/10 11/ N4 11/22 12/ W2 12/12 12/ W3 12/20 12/ N1 12/25 1/ N2 1/13 1/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 4 Rotation East N3 5/17 5/ N4 5/27 6/ GB 6/10 6/ ELT 6/16 6/ SE 6/21 7/ E1 7/12 8/ E2 8/9 8/ E3 8/30 9/ West N1 5/17 5/ N2 5/30 6/ XLW 6/8 6/ SW 6/15 6/ XLA 6/23 7/ W1 7/17 8/

45 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-45 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Rotation W2 8/7 8/ W3 8/30 9/ Winter N3 10/22 11/ N4 11/5 11/ GB 11/24 12/ ELT 12/3 12/ N1 12/8 12/ N2 12/26 1/ XLW 1/8 1/ SW 1/15 1/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 5 Rotation East ELT 5/17 5/ GB 5/21 5/ E1 5/27 6/ SE 6/6 6/ E3 6/14 7/ E2 7/5 7/ N4 7/26 9/ N3 9/5 10/ West SW 5/17 5/ XLW 5/26 6/ W1 6/2 6/ XLA 6/10 6/ W3 6/20 7/ W2 7/4 7/ N2 7/27 8/ N1 8/24 10/ Winter GB 10/22 10/ ELT 10/31 11/ SE 11/6 11/ E1 11/15 11/ XLW 11/28 12/ SW 12/6 12/ XLA 12/15 12/ W1 12/24 1/ Total

46 B-46 Bessey Ranger District Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands Grazing Schedule -Year 6 Rotation East E1 5/17 5/ SE 5/28 6/ E3 6/5 6/ E2 6/12 6/ N4 6/19 7/ N3 7/30 8/ ELT 8/28 9/ GB 9/9 9/ West W1 5/17 5/ XLA 5/26 6/ W3 6/5 6/ W2 6/10 6/ N2 6/18 7/ N1 7/16 8/ SW 8/26 9/ XLW 9/17 10/ Winter SE 10/22 10/ E1 10/31 11/ E2 11/10 11/ E3 11/20 11/ XLA 11/30 12/ W1 12/10 12/ W2 12/18 12/ W3 12/28 1/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 7 Rotation East E3 5/17 5/ E2 5/25 6/ N4 6/2 6/ N3 6/16 6/ ELT 6/27 7/ GB 7/9 7/ E1 7/28 8/ SE 8/25 9/ West W3 5/17 5/ W2 5/23 6/ N2 6/1 6/ N1 6/10 6/ SW 6/23 7/ XLW 7/16 8/

47 Final Environmental Impact Statement B-47 for Allotment Management Planning in the McKelvie GA Rotation W1 8/4 8/ XLA 8/25 9/ Winter E2 10/22 11/ E3 11/1 11/ N3 11/10 11/ N4 11/22 12/ W2 12/12 12/ W3 12/20 12/ N1 12/25 1/ N2 1/13 1/ Total Grazing Schedule -Year 8 Rotation East N4 5/17 5/ N3 5/31 6/ ELT 6/10 6/ GB 6/15 6/ E1 6/21 7/ SE 7/19 8/ E3 8/9 8/ E2 8/30 9/ West N1 5/17 5/ N2 5/30 6/ XLW 6/8 6/ SW 6/15 6/ XLA 6/23 7/ W1 7/17 8/ W2 8/7 8/ W3 8/30 9/ Winter N3 10/22 11/ N4 11/5 11/ GB 11/24 12/ ELT 12/3 12/ N1 12/8 12/ N2 12/26 1/ XLW 1/8 1/ SW 1/15 1/ Total