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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1.04 ApplicationOXY Project: OXY Conn Creek II Compressor Station Submittal Item Number: 11.1.0 Impacts on Wildlife Colorado Division of Wildlife- Albert Romero October 6, 2008 — As a courtesy notification, HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. contacted Officer Romero via phone and email regarding the proposed project. Please find attached a habitat survey report dated September 25, 2008 prepared by Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers. As per Garfield County mapping the following species are shown in this area: A. Mule Deer B. Elk C. Black Bear Other species have not been noted on the Garfield County mapping. Please find attached a copy of the Garfield County Wildlife Habitat Profile dated 3/27/02. In order to prevent livestock from accessing the site, a 4' tall 3 -strand fence will be erected. Page 1 of 1 • • • September 25, 2008 Mr. Daniel I. Padilla Regulatory Coordinator OXY USA WTP LP 2754 Compass Drive, Suite 170 Grand Junction, CO 81506 Subject: Compressor Station Expansion Project Preconstruction Habitat Assessment Garfield County, Colorado Walsh Project No. 7830-190 Dear Mr. Padilla: "gullk DxY - On September 18, 2008 Walsh personnel conducted a habitat survey in support of OXY USA WTP LP's (OXY) permitting efforts for the Conn Creek Compressor Station Expansion Project. The survey was conducted within a 0.25 mile buffer of the proposed expansion footprint. The site is located approximately 10.5 miles north-northwest of the town of De Beque, Colorado on privately owned lands in the W/ of Section 32, Township 6 South Range 97 West. Please see the attached figure for an illustration of the survey area and general location of the proposed warehouse. During the survey, habitat suitability was evaluated for federally listed and locally significant plant and animal species. Additional attention was also given to the presence/absence of Garfield County listed noxious weed species. The following letter presents the results of the field survey and supporting literature searches. Site Description The proposed expansion site for OXY's Conn Creek Compressor Station is located on the valley floor of Conn Creek at approximately 6000 feet of elevation. The valley runs north to south and receives an average of 15-25 inches of annual precipitation. Vegetation among the valley floor, and in the Conn Creek riparian area, is characterized by a relatively dense, co -dominant association of tree and shrub species. The surrounding slopes support an association of mountain shrub and sagebrush communities on the wetter north and east facing slopes, with sagebrush and desert scrub on the drier south and west facing slopes. Evidence of human activity is readily apparent throughout the area. The site is surrounded on all sides by active oil and gas facilities and their infrastructure. Those facilities include: an existing compressor station immediately to the south, several pipelines and access roads and a well pad immediately to the west, a central water station and well pad 1100 feet to the north, and Conn Creek Road approximately 200 feet to the east. Conn Creek Road is one of two access points for the uplands to the north and east. • Vehicle traffic is constant 24 hours a day and heavy during shift changes. In addition to the visual evidence of human activity, the constant sound from the compressor station and Conn Creek Road dominates the auditory landscape. Species of Concern In preparing for the field survey, Walsh personnel examined habitat requirements for species identified by the US Fish & Wildlife Service's (USFWS 2008) list of federally listed species known to occur in Garfield County. Additional consideration was given to habitat suitable for game species protected by the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW), and migratory birds, including raptors, protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. A preliminary inspection of the area for Garfield County listed noxious weed species (GarCo, 2007) was also conducted. Methods In evaluating suitable habitat for species of interest, Walsh personnel regularly reference the following: NatureServe Explorer (NatureServe 2008), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA 2008), Colorado Natural Heritage Program (Spackman et al. 1997), and Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW 2008a) (CDOW 2008b). During the field visit, a biologist conducted a visual inspection of the survey area on foot and from a four-wheel drive vehicle. Observations were documented in field notebooks and supplemented with GPS units and digital cameras. Please see the attached figure and photo log for illustrations of field activities. Results During the field survey no suitable habitat was encountered for any of the federally listed plant species known to occur in Garfield County. Suitable nesting habitat for migratory birds is present throughout the area. However no nests were observed. At the time of the survey Conn Creek was dry, and no other natural surface water was found in the immediate area. The riparian corridor along Conn Creek provides a good diversity of shrub and tree species which in this area appear to be largely undisturbed. Notable species include: narrowleaf cottonwood, Gambel's oak, big sagebrush, rabbitbrush, skunkbush sumac, chokecherry, serviceberry, wood's rose, snowberry, clematis, and mountain maple. This community would provide suitable cover and forage habitat for big game species. However, little evidence, in the form of game trails or bedding sites, was found. This lack of use is presumably the result of the • • • fragmentation of this area from surrounding habitat by oil and gas development and operations. According to the CDOW the proposed site falls within a designated winter concentration area for elk. Noxious weed infestations were noted along the access road I pipeline corridor running between the water facility to the north and compressor station to the south. Documented infestations appeared to be restricted to the reclaimed pipeline corridor on the west side of the access road. Species encountered include: musk thistle, houndstongue, and common burdock. Also of note, the recontoured and hydromulched pipeline corridor and adjacent well pad fill slope have revegetated almost exclusively with Russian thistle. Conclusions Based on the results of the field survey and literature search, Walsh does not anticipate adverse effects to any of the federally listed or locally significant plant or animal species. In order to minimize the likelihood of unintended disturbance and takes of nesting migratory birds, Walsh recommends that shrub and tree clearing activities be performed outside of the May 1 to August 1 nesting period. Additionally, to comply with proposed Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission draft rules for elk winter concentration areas, it is suggested that construction of the site be performed outside of the January 1 to March 31 surface disturbance restriction window. The dominance of Russian thistle, and the overall condition of the reclaimed pipeline ROW and well pad fill slope identified in the noxious weed discussion, indicate a problem with OXY's current reclamation protocol. Hydromulch provides good slope stabilization, however it also provides a physical obstruction to seedling germination for preferred plant species. In the future, to improve germination and reclamation success, Walsh recommends discontinuing the use of hydromulch, and moving instead to a combination of drill seeding on flat to gently sloping terrain, and broadcast seeding and netting on slopes where erosion is a concern. To remediate the current problems associated with this area, Walsh recommends treatment of the identified noxious weed species and reseeding of the ROW this fall to promote regrowth of preferred species next spring. In order to achieve long term reclamation success, seed mixes should be certified weed free and consist of an appropriate combination of native species. Regular monitoring for, and treatment of, noxious weeds is also critical to successful reclamation. • • • CPXy If you have any questions related to this document please don't hesitate to contact me at (970) 241-4636 or by email at chineswalshenv.com, Sincerely, Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Chris Hines Natural Resources Specialist Attachments General Location and Survey Area Overview Photo Log ' V a1s1 i References Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW), Colorado Department of Natural Resources. 2008a. Wildlife Profiles and Information - Colorado Division of Wildlife. Retrieved from: htto://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/Profiles/ on August 20, 2008 Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW), Colorado Department of Natural Resources. 2008b. CDOW GIS Data Download. Retrieved from: http://ndis.nrei.colostate.edu/ftp/index.html on August 20, 2008 Garfield County (GarCo), Colorado. 2007. Garfield County: Noxious Weed List, Retrieved from: htto:l/earfield-county.com/Index.asox?page=607 on September 25, 2008 NatureServe. 2008. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 7.0. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. (Accessed: August 20, 2008) Spackman, S., B. Jennings, J. Coles, C. Dawson, M. Minton, A. Kratz, and C. Spurrier. 1997. Colorado Rare Plant Field Guide. Prepared for the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by the Colorado Natural Heritage Program. Available online at: http://www.cnhp.colostate.edu/rarep!ants/cover.html USDA, NRCS. 2008. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 20 August 2008). National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), U.S. Department of the Interior. 2008. Endangered, Threatened, Proposed, and Candidate Species - Colorado Counties. Retrieved from: http://mountain- prairie,fws.aov endspDJcountvLists COLORADO.pdf on August 19, 2008 OXY Figure Survey Observations and Project Location Photo 1 1 acirt south from 01'1 (shown in the attached figure} looking along the western boundary of the existing compressor station. Photo 2 -- Looking southeast at the existing compressor station from OP 1.. • • • Photo 3: Proposed construction area; looking southeast Mt. 4.11M Photo 4: Proposed construction area; looking west ..., - . 4 '4- *Ott t.' IA. , ,t :. --:: . -414 -• ' *11, ,. - ' . - i .,. Photo 5 — Looking north-northwest from OP1. The fill -slope for the well pad is visible in the middle of the photo, and the water facili is visible in the middle ricYht of the hoto. '-kc, • ' . • • 1;•. Photo 6 — Looking west from OP1. Photo 7 Looking southwest from OPI. Photo 8 — Looking north from OP2. • • se" Photo 9 — Looking south-southwest from OP 3 towards the existing compressor station. Photo 10 — Looking west over Conn Creek towards the existing compressor station from 0P4. • .2)}41!>,'`'' . Photo 11 -- Looking northwest towards the proposed expansion site from 0P4. !lt,. tia 12 — Looking north-northwest towards the proposed site from OP4. Photo 13 — Musk thistle infestation just north of the existing compressor station. Photo 14 — Common burdock on the reclaimed w ell pad fill -slope. Photo 15 — Hydromulched area described above. The vegetation visible in the photo is all Russian thistle. • • `allJoad M!Qe opeJojo3 `/uno3 p ..a g ELK: Production Areas and Highway Cros I1 s5uissoJ3 ASeMg6IH 2133037l1W NATIVE and OTHER STREAM RSH LYNX, K1TFOX, WOLVERINE, OTTER, BOREAL TOAD BIGHORN SHEEP, PRONGHORN ANTELOPE • • • OXY Mhipel Project: OXY Conn Creek 11 Compressor Station Submittal Item Number: 11.1.D Impacts of Truck and Automobile Traffic Garfield County Road & Bridge Department- HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc. left a message with Jake Mall on October 6, 2008. The Conn Creek II compressor station will not increase the traffic at the site. The site will be manned on a temporary basis after completion of construction, and will generate on average, 2 pickup truck trips a day for monitoring of the station and 1 trip per day of a 2 ton truck for maintenance purposes. OXY USA WTP LP will comply with the recommendations proposed by Mr. Mall. Page 1 of 1 DXY Project OXY Conn Creek II Compressor Station Submittal ltern Number: 11.1.E Distances from Abutting Property Please refer to Submittal #6- Vicinity Map and Submittal #7- Assessor's Map. The Conn Creek II Compressor Station is situated within the OXY USA WTP LP 10,333 acre parcel. All of the nearest adjacent uses are agricultural. Over the past few years natural gas drilling and production activities have increased and these activities are common in the area. The nearest residential unit is approximately 4.7 -miles from the Conn Creek II Compressor Station. Page 1 of 1 • DXY Project: OXY Conn Creek II Compressor Station Submittal Item Number: 11.2.A. Site Rehabilitation and Noxious Weed Management Plan The site will be kept clear of vegetation after construction in order to reduce vegetation fuels. If the facility is abandoned, the parcel will be returned back to rangeland or hay production. Please find attached a Site Rehabilitation Plan. A telephone message was left with Steve Anthony of Garfield County on October 6, 2008 with a follow up email. OXY USA WTP LP understands that a rehabilitation bond may be required by Garfield County for the Conn Creek 11 Compressor Station totaling 3.83 acres. Please note that the above and attached information presented discusses a carefully implemented plan for mitigation of impacts caused by the Conn Creek 11 Compressor Station construction project. Page 1 of 1 Conn Creek 11 Compressor Station Rehabilitation plan Prepared for: OXY USA WTP LP 2754 Compass Drive, Suite 170 Grand Junction, CO 81506 Submitted by: Enmironmento/Consu/ting HRL Compliance Solutions, Inc 744 Horizon Ct. Suite #140 Grand Junction, CO 81506 September 2008 Table of Contents 1. Introduction 1 2. Site Characteristics 1 3. Rehabilitation Challenges 2 4. Rehabilitation Recommendations 4 5. Rehabilitation Monitoring 6 6. Conclusion 7 7. Resources 9 8. References 10 Appendix A. Soil Descriptions B. Seed Mixture Lists C. Soil Amendment Slurry D. Interim Rehabilitation Survey Form E. Summary of Rehabilitation Plan Figures 1. Conn Creek II Compressor Station Overhead View 2. Soil Map • • Introduction The rehabilitation of disturbed land is a critical component when creating a system where ecological functions and values are restored once the disturbing activity has ceased. Rehabilitation facilitates the inherent ecological processes to move towards a self promoting condition. Once a self promoting environment has been established, the natural processes of the location should take over and continue the rehabilitation processes with minimal intervention from outside parties. The costs associated with the rehabilitation process will be minimized to the operator if proper actions are taken initially to ensure the best environment possible for rehabilitation treatments to succeed. In addition to ecological benefits, there are aesthetic values associated with the rehabilitation of disturbed lands. Colorado has a thriving outdoor tourist base and measures should be taken to ensure the recreational opportunities are maximized for Colorado's tourists and residents. To ensure that operators perform obligations of the lease contract a bond is created. Bonding is required (43 CFR 3104, 36 CFR 228 E) for oil and gas lease operations, a bond of not less than $25,000 for statewide or $150,000 for nationwide operations may be furnished. The operator must identify which bond will be utilized to provide the coverage. The bond will cover the activities the operator performs including but not limited to, plugging leasehold wells, surface rehabilitation, and cleanup of abandoned operations. The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) 1000 Series Rehabilitation Regulations declares that rehabilitation activities will take place no later than 12 months after operations stop on non -crop lands. The Conn Creek 11 Compressor Station Project (CCCP) falls under this category for rehabilitation purposes. This plan is designed to provide guidance concerning rehabilitation activities for OXY USA WTP LP (OXY) land managers while operations are in the process and after production has stopped. Site Characteristics The CCCP is located approximately 13 miles north of Debeque, Colorado in the W 1/2 of Section 32, Township 6 South Range 97 West. The proposed station will be located north of the OXY Conn Creek Compressor Station, for a visual refer to Figure 1. The location is approximately 6000 feet in elevation and receives around 12 to 15 inches of precipitation per year. The number of frost free days ranges from 100 to 150 creating a relatively long growing season. Soil types found on site are considered to be well drained, loamy and non -saline, more information on soil characteristics can be found in appendix A, Figure 2. The vegetative community associations that characterize the site include: big sagebrush, CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -1 • • desert scrub, Cambers oak, narrowleaf cottonwood, and pinyon -juniper. There were also populations of clematis, chokecherry, mountain maple, snowberry and serviceberry identified during the preliminary habitat assessment conducted in September 2008. Conn Creek is located approximately 100 feet east of the proposed compressor station and according to the Nation Wide 404 investigation, the proposed construction area will not disturb jurisdictional waters. The CCCP is approximately 3.83 acres in size. Within the 3.83 acres, there will be several facilities including the compressor building, motor control center, Slug catcher, dehydrator, 3 tanks and 2 contactors. Disposal methods in compliance with COGCC 900 Series Rules will be used for the dismantling and removal of the structures. Rehabilitation Challenges The rehabilitation challenges posed by the CCCP site stem from environmental conditions. There are several factors to take into consideration when identifying rehabilitation challenges. The season, local topography, soil condition, recent weather conditions/outlook and contractor availability should be taken into account when planning and implementing the rehabilitation treatments. Ensuring that the environmental conditions and the contractor charged with the work are in sync is important to the success of the rehabilitation activities. The time frame when the CCCP station will be decommissioned is an important aspect to be aware of when the time comes to implement rehabilitation processes. The rehabilitation preparation will begin approximately 3 months before the station is decommissioned to ensure that the proper contractors and materials are obtained to implement treatments before the next growing season. Due to the pairing of limited precipitation and harsh summer conditions, establishment of vegetation could be difficult to achieve at the CCCP site. To minimize the effects of the harsh environment, measures including: seeding before the snow falls, creating a textured substrate and use of mulch or other soil amendments to create a hospitable environment should be utilized. Water availability should be considered when undertaking a rehabilitation project. The CCCP is located in an area that receives approximately 12 to 15 inches per year, and has no perennial surface water source to create an irrigation system from. To combat the water limitations of this site, drought resistant species should be selected for seeding purposes in juncture with substrate treatments. The BLM seed mixtures for Low -Elevation Salt -Desert Scrub Basin Big Sagebrush or Pinyon -Juniper Woodland and/or Mountain/Wyoming Big Sagebrush Shrubland, Appendix B, would both be fitting seed mixtures CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -2 • • for the CCCP site. Judging from the surrounding vegetation, the Mountain/Wyoming Big Sagebrush Shrubland mix would be most appropriate for final rehabilitation implementation. The nutrient levels of the soil are also an important parameter to examine. Soils in the area of concern can be high in selenium, or low in nutrients, both factors are influential in the success or failure of revegetation treatments. The native vegetation is accustom to nutrient poor soils, but construction activities can deplete nutrient levels to a point that even acclimated plants cannot survive in the soil. When the topsoil is stored and not revegetated readily, nutrients are lost at an accelerated rate due to the lack of nutrient cycling typically carried out by vegetation, and greater impacts from environmental forces (e.g. eolian, precipitation). Soil amendments such as humic acid and mycorrhizae can greatly increase the nutrient levels of the soil without using fertilizers that can be deleterious to the ecosystem. The erosion of soil is typically a rehabilitation challenge, especially in locations where dispersive soils are common as in the Grand Valley. Heavy precipitation events and windstorms can quickly erode topsoil away, compromising the rehabilitation activities. Until adequate vegetative cover is established, erosion will be mitigated by means of geotextiles, sediment wattles, netting and mulch. Another option for erosion control through natural processes is the use to cryptobiotic soil. In a naturally occurring desert ecosystem, cryptobiotic soils can cover up to 70®% of the substrate surface. These crusts mitigate erosion, fixate nitrogen, and create microenvironments for seedling establishment. Not all treatments. need to be applied in every area, just in areas where deemed appropriate. Noxious weeds are also a serious parameter to examine when planning and implementing rehabilitation treatments. Due to the aggressive, competitive nature of most noxious species, they can become a severe hindrance to the success of rehabilitation processes if not properly addressed. This rehabilition plan is to be implemented in juncture with the noxious weed management plan which dictates the proper noxious weed treatment tactics to be carried out during rehabilitation processes. There were several species identified on the CCCP during the habitat assessment conducted in September 2008. Species located included: common burdock (Arctium minus), houndstongue (Cynoglossum officinale) and musk thistle (Carduus nutans). While the infestations are not currently severe; the continual traffic in and out of the CCCP has the potential to create a larger problem if not managed properly. There are other non -noxious species that are also of concern including: halogeton (Halogeton glomeratus), kochia (Kochia scoparia) and Russian thistle (Salsola iberica). While these species are not noxious, they pose a threat to the environment needed for successful rehabilitation. The CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -3 • • • non -noxious species mentioned above are commonly found on land associated with oil and gas production. These species have the capacity, potential and capability to rapidly out compete desired species even though they are not deemed to be noxious species. Special consideration should be given to non -noxious species that are found to be abundant on the land disturbed by the CCCP activity. Rehabilitation Recommendations To establish the state of the CCCP site, there will be two assessments performed; 1) prior to construction and 2) after operations have ceased but before rehabilitation activities have taken place. In these assessments the: total vegetative cover, location of noxious weeds and areas where erosion could be an issue will be recorded and elaborated on. A report will be submitted to OXY on the overall status of the CCCP prior to interim and final rehabilitation activities commencing. All seed mixtures and mulches will be certified weed free prior to application. Interim rehabilitation (IR) will be carried out at the CCCP after construction is complete to facilitate revegetation and erosion control during operation of the station. Locations to be included in the IR include areas that are not directly needed for production activities. Right of ways (ROW) disturbed by the CCCP, the topsoil stockpile and land immediately adjacent to the CCCP pad are included in the IR. Where possible, disturbed land is to be drill -seeded, followed by press wheels, with the OKY's Standard Seed Mix or the Low -Elevation Salt -Desert Scrub/Basin Big Sagebrush seed mix, Appendix B. In locations that grade exceeds 1O%; broadcast seeding followed by compaction with a McCloud hand tool is required. Compaction with the McCloud will ensure good seed to soil contact. Mulch is to be applied on the areas of concern to a depth of 1 inch. After mulch is laid down, it will be pressed into the topsoil (e.g. crimping) by hand with the McCloud or texturized rollers pulled by a capable vehicle. By crimping the mulch into the soil, the soil is more likely to stay in place thus facilitating a healthy growing environment and reducing soil erosion. After the mulch is crimped, a slurry containing humic acid, endomycorrhizal inoculants and cryptobiotic soil matter will be applied to the mulched locations using a hydromulching dispersal system. The humic acid and endomycorrhizal components will be applied according to the label rates. The portion of the slurry comprised by cryptobiotic soil matter is a mixture of cyancobacteria (formerly called blue-green algae), green and brown algae, mosses, and lichens, liverworts, fungi, and bacteria and a tactifiying agent, see appendix C for rate information. CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -4 • • • Sediment wattles will be placed around the CCCP perimeter to slow storm water sheet flow during operation, and photodegradable netting is to be applied over the mulched areas located on grades equal to or greater than 10%. IR will be applied until the total vegetative coverage in the locations of concern is comparative to the surrounding area. The IR treatments will be visually monitored twice a year by qualified person(s) using the Interim Rehabilitation Survey Sheet, Appendix D. Surveys will be conducted in the spring after snow melt and in the fall before snow fall. Transects will be used to establish and compare coverage from the IR area and undisturbed surrounding land. When the IR has attained management goals, surveys of the location will occur on an annual basis to address problem areas before they expand. An annual report will be given in the form of a brief overview examining the overall status of the CCCP. Final Rehabilitation The final rehabilitation process has 3 stages to be completed in sequential order. Deviation from this sequence could have undesired results. In accordance to the noxious weed management plan, noxious species will be treated before construction activities begin. Rehabilitation processes will occur no later than 12 months after activity ends and rehabilitation activities will be in compliance with COGCC regulations, Series 900, 1000 Rules. Facility Removal and Disposal All manmade structures will be removed from the site by means of backhoe , bulldozer, skidsteer or other appropriate heavy machinery. Exploration and production waste (E&P waste) is designated by being associated with operations to locate or remove oil or gas from the ground or to remove impurities from such substances and it shall be intrinsic to and uniquely associates with oil and gas exploration, development or production. E &P waste is to be disposed of in accordance to the 900 and 1000 Series Rules of the COGCC regulations. To minimize waste from oil and gas related operations, operators are encouraged to propose plans to reuse and recycle items that could be considered E&P waste. These plans would describe the proposed use of the waste, waste treatment and product quality assurance. The plan will also include a copy of and certification or authorization that is required by other laws associated with the proposed waste. When E&P Waste is transported off-site within Colorado for treatment or disposal, it shall be transported to facilities authorized by the Director of the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -5 • • • (Director) or waste disposal facilities approved to receive E&P waste by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. There are two such locations in Garfield County; 1) West County Garfield Landfill near Rifle, CO or 2) South Canyon Landfill near Glenwood Springs, CO. All other waste that is not in direct contact with the chemical components associated with E&P activities is to be hauled via dump truck to the nearest landfill. Substrate Preparation The condition of the soil is very important for the establishment of a healthy self-sustaining environment. if there are any locations where the soil has noticeable spills, the contaminated soil will be removed and disposed of in accordance with E&P waste regulations. Once the substrate is void of chemical presence, and gravel that was applied to the pad during operation has been removed, rehabilitation work associated with the soil can begin. To alleviate soil compaction, the substrate will be cross ripped to a depth of 18 inches. In areas that a depth of 18 inches is not attainable due to shallow bed rock, the furthest extent will be accepted. Cross ripping will take place when the soil moisture is below 35% of field capacity. The cross ripping is specified by the COGCC under the 1000 Series Rules. The substrate shall be contoured to emulate the surrounding lands topography. Pre -disturbance photographs and visual extrapolations are to be used to create this contour. The soil used to contour the landscape will be laid down in accordance to the order it was taken off; first off, last on. This practice will ensure that the soil is applied to the appropriate horizon from which it was taken from initially. After contouring is completed, the land will follow the IR treatments with the exception of seed mixture choice. Planting Timing The planting will occur in the fall, before the first snow of the season, early -October is optimal. If possible, planting should occur in juncture with a predicted precipitation event. By positioning the seed below the snow fall or rain, the seed will receive good contact with the soil and reap the benefits of the precipitation. For the final rehabilitation, the Pinyon -Juniper Woodland and/or Mountain/Wyoming Big Sagebrush Shrubland or the Low -Elevation Salt -Desert Scrub Basin Big Sagebrush seed mixes will be used. CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -6 • Rehabilitation Monitoring Monitoring of the CCCP rehabilitation progress is vital to ensure that the proper amendments were implemented on the location. Monitoring will provide for early response to potential problems encountered during the rehabilitation process. Identifying challenges to the rehabilitation goals at an early stage will allow for adequate time to formulate a response to the situation. By catching and fixing problems early, the future costs associated with rehabilitation will be minimized for the operator. If for some reason the treatments do not show the desired outcome, additional actions must be taken to reach rehabilitation goals. After the source of the problem is identified, careful attention should be paid to the timing of the supplemental treatment. If treatments such as seeding are not carried out at the proper time, the treatment will not be effective and the operator will effectively increase rehabilitation costs. The monitoring activities will examine several parameters including: the condition of implemented BMP's, growth state and success rate of areas seeded, presence and location of noxious weeds, and possible sources of failure for rehabilitation processes. Photo documentation is required for all the above parameters for high-quality progress tracking. After the initial rehabilitation amendments are applied, a triannual monitoring scheme will be implemented. Monitoring activities will occur in the spring, summer and fall. Qualified individuals will carry out visual surveys and transects on site. For a summary of the rehabilitation plan refer to Appendix E. Conclusion Rehabilitation will be determined complete when the total cover of live perennial vegetation, excluding noxious weeds, provides sufficient protection from erosive forces on the soil. This total cover will be determined by comparing vegetative transects of adjacent, undisturbed land with vegetative transects from the rehabilitation site. When the total cover is deemed comparable by the authority carrying out the surveys, the comparison will be presented to the Director of Oil and Gas Conservation Commission of the State of Colorado or any member of the Director's staff authorized to represent the Director. Upon the COGCC's approval or dismissal of the proposed rehabilitation completion, the area will either be deemed rehabilitated or rehabilitation processes will continue until the site receives approval. This CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -7 • • • plan is meant to be an amendable document for the current and future OXY land managers, changes should be made when appropriate. CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -8 • Resource Guide Colorado Department of Agriculture Division of Plant Industry- Biological Control Section P.O. Box 400 Palisade, CO 81526 Phone: 970.464.7916 Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission Department of Natural Resources htt p://cogcc.state.co.us/ Colorado Department of Agriculture Kelly Ulhing, State Weed Coordinator Noxious Weed Program Division of Conservation Services 700 Kipling Street, Suite 4000 Lakewood, CO 80215 Phone: 303.239.4182 www.ag.state.co.us/dpijweeds/weed.html Garfield County Vegetation Management Steve Anthony P.O. Box 426, 0298 Cr 333A Rifle, CO 81650 Phone: 970.625.8601 Fax: 970.625.8627 santhony@garfield-county.com Primordial Solutions, Inc. Cryptobiotic Soil Amendments Tim Flynn Grand Junction, CO 81501 Phone: 970.245.9341 The Oil & Gas Department of Garfield County P&G) serves as a liaison between the citizens and the energy industry. The county does not regulate oil and gas drilling, but does serve as the local government designee to the state oil and gas commission COGCC which issues drilling permits. htto://www .arfield-county.com/index.aspx?page=570 Phone: 970-625-2497 CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -9 • References Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Comission. Colorado Department of Natural Resources. 2008. Rehabilitation Regulations. Retrieved from: http://cogcc.state.co.us Oil and Gas, Surface Operating Standards and Guidelines for Oil and Gas Exploration and Develepment, "Gold Book." United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. Forth Edition, 2005. Noxious Weed Management Plan Garfield County, Colorado Walsh Project No. 7830430. Walsh Environmental. 2008. Production and Deployment of Photosynthetic Nitrogen -Fixing Biofertilizers. International Erosion Control Association. 2008. Retrieved from: http://www.ieca.org/membersonly/cros/viewabstract.asp?Abstract1D=171 United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, 2008. Soil Survey Information. Retrieved from: http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/WebSoilSurvev.aspx CCCP Rehabilitation Plan Page -10 • • Appendix A Soil Descriptions Douglas -Plateau Area, Colorado, Parts of Garfield and Mesa Counties 44—Happle very channery sandy loam, 3 to 12 percent slopes Map Unit Setting • Elevation: 5,200 to 6,000 feet • Mean annual precipitation: 12 to 15 inches • Mean annual air temperature: 46 to 52 degrees F • Frost -free period: 100 to 150 days Map Unit Composition • Happle and similar soils: 80 percent Description of Happle Setting • Landform: Alluvial fans • Down-slope shape: Convex • Across -slope shape: Linear • Parent material: Green river formation alluvium derived from shale Properties and qualities • Slope: 3 to 12 percent • Depth to restrictive feature: More than 80 inches • Drainage class: Well drained • Capacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high (0.57 to 2.00 in/hr) • Depth to water table: More than 80 inches • Frequency of flooding: None • Frequency of ponding: None • Calcium carbonate, maximum content: 10 percent • Maximum salinity: Nonsaline (0.0 to 2.0 mmhos/cm) • Available water capacity: Low (about 3.4 inches) Interpretive groups • Land capability (nonirrigated): 4e • Ecological site: Rolling Loam (R034XY298C0) CCEP Rehabilitation Plan Page A-1 Typical profile • 0 to 7 inches: Very channery sandy loam • 7 to 14 inches: Very channery sandy loam • 14 to 32 inches: Very channery sandy clay loam • 32 to 60 inches: Extremely channery sandy loam Douglas -Plateau Area, Colorado, Parts of Garfield and Mesa Counties 46—Happle-Rock outcrop association, 25 to 65 percent slopes Map Unit Setting • Elevation: 6,200 to 7,200 feet • Mean annual precipitation: 12 to 15 inches • Mean annual air temperature: 46 to 52 degrees F • Frost -free period: 100 to 150 days Map Unit Composition • Happle and similar soils: 50 percent • Rock outcrop: 35 percent Description of Happle Setting • Landform: Canyons, mountains • Landform position (three-dimensional): Mountainflank • Down-slope shape: Convex • Across -slope shape: Linear • Parent material: Green river formation colluvium derived from shale Properties and qualities • Slope: 25 to 65 percent • Depth to restrictive feature: More than 80 inches • Drainage class: Well drained • Capacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Moderately high to high (0.57 to 2.00 in/hr) • Depth to water table: More than 80 inches • Frequency of flooding: None • Frequency of ponding: None • Calcium carbonate, maximum content: 10 percent • Maximum salinity: Nonsaline (0.0 to 2.0 mmhos/cm) • Available water capacity: Low (about 3.4 inches) CCEP Rehabilitation Plan Page A-2 • • Interpretive groups • Land capability (nonirrigated): 7e • Ecological site: Steep Colluvial Slopes (R034XY445C0) Typical profile • 0 to 7 inches: Very channery sandy loam • 7 to 14 inches: Very channery sandy loam • 14 to 32 inches: Very channery sandy clay loam • 32 to 60 inches: Extremely channery sandy loam Description of Rock Outcrop Properties and qualities • Slope: 40 to 65 percent • Depth to restrictive feature: 0 inches to lithic bedrock • Capacity of the most limiting layer to transmit water (Ksat): Very low to low (0.00 to 0.00 injhr) • Available water capacity: Very low (about 0.0 inches) Interpretive groups • Land capability (nonirrigated): 8s Typical profile • 0 to 50 inches: Unweathered bedrock CCEP Rehabilitation Plan Page A-3 • • • Appendix B Seed Mixture Lists OXY Standard Seed Mix Common Name % PLS Russian Wild Ryegrass 16.86 Mountain Brome, Bromar 16.86 Orchardgrass, Paiute 16.36 Intermediate Wheatgrass, Oahe 15.98 Regreen 404 14.7 Crested Wheatgrass, Hycrest 8.24 Pubescent Wheatgrass, Luna 8.09 CCEP Rehabilitation Plan Page 8-1 • BLM Seed Mixtures_(BLM 2007) Menu -Based Seed Mixes by Habitat Type for Use in Interim and Final Rehabilitation CC -Desert Scrub Ba 0 PLS (Ibs/acre)* 61 ri Ln 1-1 N c Ln N rfl r+l N h r-1 m' N V Q 0 LL Shrub Shrub Bunch Sod - Forming Sod - Forming Bunch Bunch Bunch Bunch D ra gli h E no 0 U Z U O U O O 41 O U 67 > V] 7 Lfi > L!] Z 0 -0 rD Ln Sodar Rosana, Walsh Paloma, Rimrock vi, 7 Secar to V1 d ,Cr as Ln Plant Both of the Following (5% Each, 10%Total) Atriplex canescens Atriplex confortifolia and Both of the Following (20% Each, 40% Total) rSproabaius airoides Elymus lanceolatus ssp. Psammaphilus, Agropyron riparium and Three of the Following (50% Total) Pascapyrum (Agropyron) smithii) Achnatherum (Orozopsis) hymenoides Elymus elymoides ssp. Eluymoides, Sitanion hystrix Elymus wawawaiensis (prey. Pseudoroegneria spicato) Poa sandergii (Poa secunda) Common Name Fourwing Saltbrush 4F [a u w as -c Alkali Sacaton Streambank Wheatgrass Western Wheatgrass Indian Ricegrass Bottlebrush Squirreltail Snake River Wheatgrass (prey. Bluebunch Wheatgrass) Sandberg Bluegrass per square foot, drill -seeded. Double this rate (90 PLS per square foot) if broadcast. *based on 45 pure live seeds (PL c CCEP Rehabi • N 0 0 N 2 J co Y1 V1 2 co Menu -Based Seed Mixes by Habitat Type for Use in Interim and Final Rehabilitation h Shrubland 0 Woodland and 0 PLS* IDs/acre 0 1 E 4R1 Z 0 E E 0 U *Based on 60 pure live seeds (PLS) per square foot, drill -seeded. Double this rate (120 PLS per square foot) if broadcast seeded. CCEP Rehabilitation Plan CO N CC N 411 N ul N 4.0 m 40 O 4.0 6 n N Bunch Bunch Sod - Forming Bunch Sod - Forming Bunch Bunch Bunch Cool Q 0 V D 0 U O 0 C3 D 0 U Q 0 U 0 0 L) Q 0 Li Paloma, Rimrock Secar, P-7, Anaton, Goldar Critana, Schwendimar Revenue, Pryor Lel To mi. c ro CC VNS [-PPlant Both of the Following (15% Each, 30% Total) Achnatherum (Orozopsis) hymenoides Pseudoroegneria Sopicata, Agropyron spicatum and Two of the Following (30% Total) Elymus fanceolatus ssp. Lanceolatus, Agropyron dasystachyum Elymus trachycaulus, Agropyron trachycaulum Pascopyrum (Agropyron) smithii and Two of the Following (40% Total) Poa fendleriana Poa sandbergii, Poa secunda Elymus elymoiides ssp. Elymoides, Sitanion hystrix Indian Ricegrass Bluebunch Wheatgrass Thickspike Wheatgrass ISlendar Wheatgrass Western Wheatgrass Muttongrass Sandberg Bluegrass Bottlebrush Squirreltail *Based on 60 pure live seeds (PLS) per square foot, drill -seeded. Double this rate (120 PLS per square foot) if broadcast seeded. CCEP Rehabilitation Plan • BLM Seed Mixtures 0 t 22.1 of 0 c .71 un 0 2 0 a m RS E '6 E z 0 E E 0 CCEP Rehabilitation Plan M I-, M r - N m ni CO 4 cD o I.n C9 LD d N Ti' N r-! v: r -f Cr)r-i ,--I d Plant Both of the Following (20% Each, 40% Total) Sod - Forming Bunch Bunch Bunch Sod- Forming od- Forming Bunch Bunch Bunch Bunch Bunch Bunch Bunch Bunch 0 0 u 0 0 u 0 0 u 0 0 U 0 0 u 0 0 u Cool Cool 0 0 u 0 0 U 0 0 u 0 0 u 0 0 u Critana, Bannock, Schwendimar Secar, P-7, Anaton, Goldar Les5 J Arriba Canbar _ J Sherman VNS VNS VNS Lodorrn, Cucharas Nezpar, Paloma, Rimrock VNS, (N. American origin) Elyrnus lanceolatus ssp. Lanceolatus, Agropyron dasystachyum Pseudoraegneria Sopicata, Agropyron spicatum and One of the Following (20% Total) Elymus elymoides ssp. Elymaides, Sitanion hystrix Elymus trachycaulus, Agropyron trachycaulum Pascopyrum (Agropyron) smithii and One of the Following (20% Total) Poa canbyi, P. secunda 0 E 0 0 0 0_ Poa fendleriana and One of the Following (10% Total) Achnatherum (Stipa) lettermanii Achnatherum (Stipa) nelsonii, Stipa columbiana Nassella (Stipa) viridula and One of the Following (10% Total) Achnatherum (Oryzopsis) hymenoides Kaelerio macrantha, K. cristata Thickspike Wheatgrass Bluebunch Wheatgrass Bottlebrush Squirreltail Slendar Wheatgrass Western Wheatgrass ICanby Bluegrass Big Bluegrass M utto ngra ss Letterman Needlegrass Columbia Needlegrass Green Needlegrass Indian Ricegrass Junegrass CCEP Rehabilitation Plan • • Appendix C Soil Amendment Slurry Mixture Component Rate (unit/acre) Humic Acid 1 gallon Mycorrhyzae 1.2 pound Gwar* 50 pound Cryptobiotic Soil* 2.2 pound *these components are not available outside of Primordial Solutions, Inc. - they are the only company in the world to provide such an amendment. ingredient list is not available to the public. CCEP Rehabilitation Plan Page C-1 • Appendix D Interim Rehabilitation Survey Form Date: Location: Surveyors: BMP's 1) Type a. Location b. Condition Noxious weeds 1) Species a. Location: b. Density: c. Sensitivity: Revegetation Observations: 1) Total coverage: 2) Problem areas: 3) Species composition: Treatment Recommendations: Drawing of the Area of Concern CCEP Rehabilitation Plan Page D-1 • Appendix E Summary of Rehabilitation Plan Pre -Construction 1) Site Survey a. Total vegetative cover, excluding noxious weeds b. Noxious weed survey c. Photo documentation d. Biological survey e. Assessment of Surveys 2) Construction Phase a. Noxious weeds are eradicated prior to construction activities i. Locations are mapped ii. Soil coming frorn areas with noxious weeds stays on site and location is recorded b. Implement BMP's i. Sediment logs around freshly disturbed land ii. Installation of appropriate storm water management tactics c. Stockpiling of topsoil 1 Stored by horizon, placement is recorded for later reference 3) Operational Phase a. Interim rehabilitation is to be carried out on lands not directly affected by production activities. i. Contour land to mimic the surrounding landscape ii. Apply topsoil of contoured area 111 Drill -seed where possible, follow with roller wheels, apply mulch, crimp mulch, apply netting where grade is greater than or equal to 10%, apply soil slurry amendment iv. Broadcast seed where slope is greater than or equal to 10%, compact soil with McCloud, apply mulch, crimp mulch, apply netting, apply soil slurry amendment b. Monitor treatments applied bi-annually, use the interim rehabilitation survey form, appendix D c. Assess survey, make treatment suggestions where needed, implement treatments when the appropriate time arises. d. Compile survey information to create an annual IR report 4) Post -production a. Survey 1. Total vegetative cover, excluding noxious weeds 1. triannual 11 Noxious weed survey 1. triannual iii. Photo documentation 1. triannual iv. Biological survey 1. triannual v. Assessment of Surveys 1. annual b. Implementation of Final Rehabilitation Treatment i. Dismantle and removal of structures ii. Remove of contaminated soils CCEP Rehabilitation Plan Page E-1 • iii. Ripping of soil iv. Contouring of disturbed area v. Seeding vi. Mulching vii. Netting viii. Soil amendment slurry c. Monitoring/treatment application wi i. Total vegetative cover, exclul 1. triannual ii. Noxious weed survey 1, triannual iii. Photo documentation 1. triannual iv. Biological survey 1. triannual v. Assessment of Surveys 1. annual I continue until deemed reclaimed by the Director ing noxious weeds CCEP Rehabilitation Plan Page E-2 8 8 8 P' 009 YL£$ 004CLEL COZrL£v co 00041£4 8 8 8 8 8 n 009 KE 0OL 4L£ 00621£4 001"£167 8 8 3 _r] 8 8 v 0 0 0 0 cv 0 0 0 z 8 hl 0 0 0 0 0 0 h r Cay 0 0I r 0 d MAP INFORMATION MAP LEGEND ti ar o 0) a 0 a o ar C g a c.) 0, n r `o 'fid �a o co,E �Zw � a 0) 'tar O. 0 0_ O o 0ceW - N (c4 E (aS2 o 0 c y• R 0. 00 Z CJ o E E., °1 0 Q i N d L p 0, 0 0 0- O Q r t va. co c G Z m co3.3 0 03 ar 0 ax 0) a `— 'S 6 0 0 3. W 04 U a al A{, a7 U 0 o y� a. i a E o 0 ar co.N EE a w 0 a a E b UY N N C G 7 W a j> ay0t4 a J ro taw 0 a N t aJ C� 4Y >. :12 030 0 y 0 0 rn0 , {FEI a (} 4? N (/3 d7 7 C N L aa) 67 a [p N N as 0. co `o — sa 0 2 '� Q cv � '0 o pl d. D c 0 0 C .0 = E 8 C/) 'O Q a7 a7 any N O a N 4 _ o. y y Eon E .co r 0 .. ca a} a L O 04 7 -al c0 E f6 E O v E ui U 000 d H c..)E o Very Stony Spot Soil Map Units Special Line Features Special Point Features Short Steep Slope Political Feature a Streams and Canals Closed Depres _ a rrl u- v N7 3 (' J . n2 Mine or Quarry d N Perennial Water 0) Severely Eroded Spot Other Roads yei 5 `3' co d a d CL S a O 4 x 6 0>+,: tk !14 v m 0 VI Gr ItO 0 C a N .2 4r .. Ta 0 5 16. O C 2 (? Soil Map—Douglas-Plateau Area, Colorado, Parts of Garfield and Mesa Counties Figure 2. Soil map Map Unit Legend Douglas -Plateau Area, Colorado, Parts of Garfield and Mesa Oounties (00682) Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Acres in AOI Percent of AOI 44 Happe very channery sandy loam, 3 to 12 percent slopes 53.3 21.1% 46 Happle-Rock outcrop association, 25 to 65 percent slopes 195.9 77.4% 67 Tosca channery loam, 25 to 80 percent slopes 0.1 0.0% 71 Utso-Rock outcrop complex, 40 to 90 percent slopes 3,9 1.5% Totals for Area of Interest (AOl) 253.2 100.0% LIS DA Natural Resources Web Soil Survey 2.0 Conservation Service National Cooperative Soil Survey 1017/2008 Page 3 of 3 alsli Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC an ecology and environment company April 22, 2008 Mr. Daniel I. Padilla Regulatory Coordinator Occidental Oil and Gas Corporation OXY USA WTP LP 2754 Compass Drive, Suite 170 Grand Junction, CO 81506 Subject: Noxious Weed Management Plan Garfield County, Colorado Walsh Project No. 7830-130 Dear Mr. Padilla: The following Noxious Weed Management Plan was produced by Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC (Walsh) on behalf of OXY USA WTP LP. The plan covers OXY's area of operations located approximately 10 miles north-northwest of the town of De Beque in Garfield County, Colorado and includes a list of noxious weeds that may be encountered on OXY property and suggestions on how to inventory and manage them. Walsh will provide support in implementing any of the recommendations provided in the report. Please don't hesitate to contact me at thicks(cwalshenv.com or (970) 241-4636 with any questions, comments, or concerns regarding any aspect of this report. Thank you for selecting Walsh for your project. Sincerely, Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Tara Hicks Environmental Scientist 535 Grand Avenue - Grand Junction, Colorado 81501-2790 Phone (970) 241-4636 FAX (970) 241-4312 Noxious Weed Management Plan OXY USA WTP LP Occidental Oil and Gas Corporation WALSH Project Number: 7830-130 April 22, 2008 • • • • • Noxious Weed Management Plan Occidental Oil and Gas Corporation OXY USA WTP LP Prepared for: Prepared by: Reviewed by: April 22, 2008 Daniel I. Padilla Regulatory Coordinator Occidental Oil and Gas Corporation OXY USA WTP LP 2754 Compass Drive, Suite 170 Grand Junction, CO 81506 Tara Hicks Environmental Scientist Edward M. Baltzer, CHMM, CPG District Manager Submitted by:: WALSH ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTISTS AND ENGINEERS, LLC 535 Grand Avenue Grand Junction, CO 81501-2790 WALSH Project Number; 7830-130 • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION t 2 SITE CHARACTERIZATION I 3 WEEDS OF CONCERN 2 4 WEED INVENTORY 3 5 TREATMENT METHODS 3 6 MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES........... 5 7 CONCLUSION 7 8 REFERENCES 8 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 Area Overview Figure 2 Valley Overview Figure 3 Mesa Overview Figure 4 Logan Wash Overview LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix A Colorado Noxious Weed List Appendix B Descriptions of Listed Noxious Weeds of Garfield County Appendix C Faller and Girard Document Appendix D Treatment Methods Appendix E Pesticide Use Proposal Appendix F Survey Form Appendix G Noxious Weed Table Appendix H . BLM Seed Mixture oXY.NIVMP • Wa I Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC FS GJFO GSFO NWMP OXY PUP Walsh LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS Forest Service Grand Junction Field Office Glenwood Springs Field Office Noxious Weed Management Plan Occidental Oil and Gas Corporation Pesticide Use Proposal Walsh Environmental Scientists and — OXY USA WTP LP Engineers, LLC ii Environmental Scientists and Engineers„ LLC Noxious Weed Management Plan 1 INTRODUCTION Noxious weeds are non-native plant species which disrupt the natural ecology of landscapes and can cause financial hardships for landowners. Not only do they quickly disrupt and overtake native vegetation, but they can cause serious illness to livestock and wildlife, and can adversely affect water bodies by overtaking banks and crowding out native wetland and riparian plants. Walsh Environmental Scientists & Engineers, LLC (Walsh) prepared this plan for OXY USA WTP LP. The plan is designed to provide OXY with guidelines to manage noxious weeds within their area of operations in Garfield County. The objectives of the plan include; locating and treating existing weed infestations, identifying and evaluating treatment methods, preventing new infestations, and providing an adaptable and useful document for OXY's existing and future property managers and contractors. Under the Colorado Noxious Weed Act, Colorado Revised Statutes Title 35, Article 5.5, the Colorado general assembly has placed all Colorado lands under the jurisdiction of local governments that have been delegated the responsibility and power to assure the management of state and locally designated noxious weeds. In OXY's area of operations the local government charged with management of noxious weeds is Garfield County. Garfield County requires land owners within the county to actively manage noxious weed infestations on their property. 2 SITE CHARACTERIZATION For the purposes of this plan, OXY 's property has been divided into three different management areas, hereinafter referred to as the Valley, the Mesa, and Logan Wash. These areas are visible on Figure 1 and are separated based on distance or differences in ecology. The Valley consists of facilities (well pads, compressor stations, etc) and linear features (roads and pipelines) found below 7,500 feet along Conn Creek and its tributaries. These relatively dry valleys have long growing seasons, high average temperatures, and low annual accumulations of precipitation. The vegetative communities in this area are dominated by the following associations: sagebrush, pinyon juniper, desert scnib and on moist northern aspects and along Conn Creek, mountain shrub and gambel oak. The Mesa and Logan Wash areas consist of facilities and linear features above 7,500 feet in the highlands to the north and east of the valley. These highlands have shorter growing seasons, lower temperatures, and greater annual precipitation. The increased moisture availability is reflected in the dominant vegetation associations found here, including; gambel oak and mountain shrublands, aspen woodlands, and mixed conifer woodlands. The Mesa and Logan OXY [PSA WTP LP - Noxious Wrai 4lvugemoo Pin 4/22/2008 1 fAiT YVUA71l Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Wash were separated due to the physical distance between the two areas. The highland road connecting the two areas is included in the Logan Wash area. Also of note, the Mt. Callahan Ridge (MCR) has been designated a sensitive area due to the presence of rare plant populations and their habitat. While the MCR is part of Logan Wash, the sensitive area determination limits the type of treatment methods available for managing noxious weeds. To assure that these methods pose the least risk to these rare plant populations, a separate NWMP with appropriate treatment methods may be developed in conjunction with the Colorado Natural Areas Program (CHAP). If a separate NWMP is prepared for the MCR, it will be forwarded as an appendix to this document. 3 WEEDS OF CONCERN The Colorado noxious weed list is divided into three management categories referred to as Lists A, B, and C. Please see Appendix A for a list of the Colorado noxious weed species and their designation. Under the Colorado Noxious Weed Act, if populations of List A species are present in the project area, every population shall be eradicated prior to seed development (Part 3,3.A.). To stop the spread of List B species, populations of every species designated for eradication in a particular county shall be eliminated prior to seed development (Part 4.5.A.). Out of the 68 listed noxious weeds in Colorado, the Garfield County Weed Advisory Board has identified 21 noxious weed species as likely to occur within the county. Table 1 lists those species, and Appendix B contains descriptions and distinguishing species characteristics. Table 1: Garfield County Noxious Weed List Common Name Species Canada thistle Cirsiuun arvense Chicory Cichorium intybus Common burdock Arctium minus Dalmatian toadflax Linaria dahnalica Diffuse knapweed Cenlaurea diffusa Hoary cress Cardaria draba Houndstongue Cynoglossum ofnale Jointed goatgrass Aegilops cylindrica Leafy spurge Euphorbia esula Musk thistle Carduus acanthoides Oxeye daisy Chrysanlheum leucanlhemum Plumeless thistle Carduus acanthoides Purple loosestrife Lyihrum salicaria Russian knapweed Acroptilon repens Russian olive Elaeagnus angustifolia Salt cedar Tamarix ramosissima Salt cedar Tamarix parviflora OX JSA WTI' L? - Noxious wend Muuicmen+ PoLn 4/22i2OUR Table 2: Noxious Weed Inventory Table Wellpad, Road, or Facility Weed Species Infestation ID (Map ID) Size of Infestation Date Recorded The Valley To be populated as surveys are conducted in 2008. Ceniaurea solstitialis ' Yellow toadflax Linaria vulgaris See Appendix A for noxious weed inventory data from 2006 The Mesa To be populated as surveys are conducted in 2008. See Appendix A for noxious weed inventory data from 2006 Logan Wash To be populated as surveys are conducted in 2008. See Appendix A for noxious weed inventory data from 2006 Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Common Name Species Scotch thistle Onopordum acanthium Spotted knapweed Cenlaurea maculosa Yellow starthistle Ceniaurea solstitialis ' Yellow toadflax Linaria vulgaris 4 WEED INVENTORY Noxious weed surveys were conducted in 2006 by Faller and Girard (Appendix C). Additional surveys are to be conducted in 2008 to continue noxious weed monitoring and treatment. Identified infestations will be recorded using the Noxious Weed Inventory Form presented in Appendix G and reported in Table 2 below and Figures 2, 3, and 4 at the end of this document. The inventory is to be updated throughout the growing season as new infestations are identified. Surveys will also assess the condition of previously -treated weed infestations. These surveys will provide valuable information on the effectiveness of treatment methods, providing valuable information for an adaptive management approach to this NWMP. 5 TREATMENT METHODS The following treatment methods and descriptions were acquired from the Garfield County Noxious Weed Management Plan (Garfield County, 2002) Management techniques include cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical strategies. Cultural controls involve seeding with native plants and reducing grazing intervals to promote plant growth. Mechanical control is the removal of the infestation manually or with equipment. Biological control is utilizing insects OXY USA NTP LP - Noxious Weed 2410 cmeg PI= 4/22/2008 3 Environmental scientists and Engineers, LLC that feed only on certain noxious weed species. The use of these methods in conjunction with each other can have a strong impact on eradicating the infestation. The optimum method or methods for weed management will vary depending on a number of site specific variables. Factors to be considered should include soil type and stability, grade, associated vegetation, existing and proposed land use, proximity to water, availability of irrigation water, weed type and stage of growth, and severity of infestation. The management method selected should be the least environmentally damaging, yet practical and reasonable in achieving the desired results. When considering weed management on a property, first treat areas that may transport weed seeds. These areas include ditches, streams, roadsides, driveways, trails, livestock concentrated areas, and equipment storage sites. The following recommendations are intended to be a reference for weed management in Garfield County. The information is not intended to be a complete guide to weed management. Specific chemical recommendations are available from the Garfield County Vegetation Management Department and/or licensed applicators and are not listed in this Plan (Garfield County, 2002). Please see Appendix D for recommended treatment methods for each species. OXY's area of operations are within the BLM Grand Junction Field Office (GJFO) jurisdiction. Walsh was unable to obtain the GJFO noxious weed management plan in time to complete this document. However, that plan is likely to be similar to the Glenwood Springs Field Office (GSFO) noxious weed management plan. The following treatment methods are requirements from the GSFO Noxious Weed Management Plan. The appropriate weed manager will need to be contacted for timing and treatment of each weed species (BLM, 2007). The operator shall implement the best available weed control technique(s) at the appropriate times based on the life history of the weed species. • A Pesticide Use Proposal (PUP) shall be approved by the BLM prior to use of herbicides on BLM lands (Appendix E). • Only adjuvants and herbicides approved by the BLM shall be applied to BLM lands. • A Pesticide Application record shall be filled out each time pesticides are applied to BLM lands. The operator shall maintain these records for a minimum of three years. Infestations of all List A species and designated List B species shall be immediately reported to the appropriate County Weed Manager. • Herbicide use shall follow application rates, restrictions and warnings listed on the label. • In situations where noxious weeds have escaped from the project area into adjacent sites, the infested areas shall be treated to prevent further expansion into uninfested areas and reinfestation of the treated area after obtaining landowner permission. • The operator shall use pesticide applicators licensed by the Colorado Department of Agriculture. (BLM, 2007) Based on BLM GSFO Noxious Weed Management Plan requirements, Walsh has identified preventative measures that OXY can implement in their noxious weed plan. OXY GSA \STP LP - codM+� w.tPIn 4/22/2008 4 • • .&-waish Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC • Proposed project areas are to be inventoried prior to ground -disturbing activities. If noxious weeds are encountered they shall be treated or removed to prevent further infestations. If the treatment timing is not species appropriate to for the weed species, ground activities can proceed. • A Pesticide Use Proposal (PUP) shall be prepared by OXY and approved by the BLM prior to use of herbicides on BLM lands • Certified weed -free grass mixture is to be planted on disturbed land • Topsoil stockpiles are to be revegetated to promote a healthy microbial environment in the soil. As stated by the BLM GSFO, native or non-native, non-persistent sterile grasses may be used to seed stockpiles. • Certified weed -free mulch must be used in reclamation It is recommended that vehicles that have traversed areas with noxious weed infestations be power washed to remove mud and debris from tires and the vehicle's undercarriage as soon as practical after exposure to weeds. Wash water should be contained in an area that can not harbor noxious weeds (e.g. commercial car wash). This action will remove seeds and is a preventative measure in stopping the spread of noxious weeds. 6 MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES Prevention The prevention of the spread of existing noxious weeds is essential in the management process. Noxious weeds have an affinity to areas of disturbance such as roads, pipelines, and ROW and are easily spread to these locations. Seeds and transplants can adhere to clothing, mud on tires, or hay, or transplant of noxious ornamental plants are examples of how they can be transported. Minimizing or eliminating these factors can greatly reduce the occurrence of noxious weeds. Areas with known noxious weed infestations should be avoided by vehicles and personnel until the weeds have been eradicated. Revegetation and Rehabilitation Revegetating an area that has been cleared of noxious weeds or otherwise disturbed is another step to prevent the reestablishment of noxious weeds, erosion, provide cover for forage, and reduce visual impact. Revegetation is site specific and native plants are most appropriate to use in seeding plants. However, if reclamation is the desired effect, non-aggressive grasses and forbs can be used. The following is an OXY standard seed mix derived from the previous noxious weed plan provided by Palter and Girard Inc. Additional seed mix recommendations from the BLM can be found in Appendix H. OXY USA RTP LP Moo Noniow weed Monagemem Plan 4/22/2008 5 • • • a1sh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC arY Standard Seed Mix Species % live seed Russian Wild Ryegrass VNS 16.86 Mountain Brame, Bromar 16.86 Orchardgrass, Paiute 16.36 Intermediate Wheatgrass, Oahe 15.98 Regreen 404 14.70 Crested Wheatgrass, Hycrest 8.24 Pubescent Wheatgrass, Luna 8.09 Note: The recommended seed mixtures should be applied with a broadcast seeder followed by harrowing with a sharp -toothed harrow to achieve a cover depth of 1/4 to 2 inches. If mulch is used it should be certified weed -free straw or hay or packaged hydromulch. Revegetation projects should be evaluated one year after completion for effectiveness (P&G, 2007). Garfield County has developed the following items to use as tools in the planning process. A Soil Plan to include: • Provisions for salvaging on-site topsoil. • A timetable for eliminating topsoil and/or aggregate piles. • A plan that provides for soil cover if any disturbances or stockpiles will sit exposed for a period of 90 days or more. A Revegetation Plan to include: • Plant material list (be specific, scientific and common names required). • Planting schedule (to include timing, methods, and provisions for watering, if applicable). • A map of the area impacted at preliminary plan (where the soil will be disturbed). • A revegetation bond. A Revegetation Security may be required if, in the determination of the Board of County Commissioners, the proposed project has: • A potential to facilitate the spread of noxious weeds. • A potential to impact watershed areas. • A potential for visual impacts from public viewing corridors. • Steep slopes (15%Q or greater) or unstable areas. • Disturbs large areas (half acre or greater). (Garfield County, 2002) As stated by the Garfield Management Plan, the revegetation security will be in an amount to be determined by the Board of County Commissioners that will be site-specific and based on the amount of disturbance. The security shall be held by Garfield County until vegetation has been successfully reestablished according to the following Reclamation Standards. The Board of County Commissioners will designate a member of their staff to evaluate the reclamation prior to the release of the security (Garfield County, 2002). OXY USA MP LP • Norinec Weed htuagemeni Plan 4/22/2005 6 • • Environmental Scientists and Engineers. LLC 7 CONCLUSION This noxious weed management plan provided by Walsh is a living document designed to outline steps and tasks in the identification, treatment and revegetation of noxious weed infestations. Periodic site surveys will be conducted biannually between April and October to identify noxious weeds on property impacted by OXY activities. A report of each survey will be submitted to OXY and will be available to agencies upon request. Based on findings in the survey(s), OXY will coordinate with the BLM andlor County andlor landowner that may require specific treatment methods. Oxy will work with the landowner and federal, state, and local agencies to identify the most appropriate treatment methods. Noxious weed control is vital to preserve the natural ecology of Colorado. Adopting this management plan will aid OXY in managing noxious weeds encountered during their oil and gas exploration and production activities. OXY USA WtP LP - Noxious Weed 1.4.3gem nL l L 4'2212008 7 • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC 8 REFERENCES Bureau of Land Management, Glenwood Springs Energy Office (BLM). 2007. Noxious and Invasive Weed Management Plan for Oil and Gas Operators. Email correspondence from: Beth Brenneman, Beth Brenneman(cab1m.gov date?? Garfield County. 2002. Garfield County Noxious Weed Management Plan. Retrieved from: http:l/www.garfield-county.comllndex.aspx?page=604 Pallier and Girard Inc. (P&G).2007. Noxious Weed Management Plan for OXY. January 2007. Electronic document provided by OXY OXY USA WTP LP - Noxious Word Mamxnnrnt Plan 4/2212008 8 • lists and Engineers, LLC • RESOURCE DIRECTORY AND SOURCES OF INFORMATION ity Cooperative Extension Service (Garfield el ru E u U to N O 6% -.] c U7 O O Y q 6 eu pv o � cev i c cil co to -zo sU-,M vU i)ws to oV t) aimC,n Nv, o.��m `C aiE A �j,QCOa (• 5 45 as ]9 - OC M 7:+''s 1 r3rQU cs1t-y® I N6 U a5 ' � �' 0 oy 0 0 rc.�� e nQo}3 mu oQ a r•- rt" c.s cc c. o. .- e tr.n C4a, C-5 =,oc, - °' f' �a¢a ci 4-, Qs.� { 3 'G 3 Z za ea © ' a r. 0 r 0 0"Fs E 2 s o o—te� o - �s. o da.? UC= R! w) ...o UUrAC7PUc. UGIr F, r., UxZf:(- )c-, 3 cc o to ; 0. co V9 Lid G C Q CU V 0 c4 bu U rp o2A 5 - rs rrs to c "' 0 a . 0 ¢ iZa 0 as 0 Nrs, Cvn 7 Q M E,T Q g --�' ate. r go .<U�va ��+ O°rz oU —t fJ4ijJ v, cyPI Q Q- In W t u c�, CG GG R6++�° F- S 3 c) Cr:o C7 CO N C.7 0. w XI (7cnN -' C7 P. LT. E (?ua a. c24 c. Li. s 0 Q W 0 i 0 ca -0 cc cc CN4 CA nc CA r� a ONS Q U o rs a) -es mesacounty.us • . \'a sh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Figure 1 Overview Map ora -rnvnP 4/22/2008 4174180 Icc MOuni [bran -., 1441....114r i �-+-a ra - rr fly as���III11Y''i p-441 -3045- A 1051151445 a weed daU will ke eGoett W N8 fpum13w,�44, as X becomes .taraltabla --5..—Ila'4-- 5 ... surveys ] ts 04.0. ..L 7I L yI- 1, OXY USA WTP LP - AN, [11Si ! le3{ 3?1. DXY NOXIOUS WEED OVERVIEW Gerhe1dCounty, Colorado 5356ma Mw. !' rt MA GaM Junc5or GMorado 95252414035 4.19701241,4311 )1-0- fr - `s. g 6 9 & 1 9 to 5.1 Mg ..sre 1:48,990 1 inch equals 6.000 feat NNi Wa1sh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Figure 2 Valley Overview nxy • NWMP 4/22/2008 1 y /4•1 S 1p fr r fes, ( •:si 2�--'� fah 0. 1W< IsIi ass G• -AE .....to o...e w-ad,co..noe,sw e, OM).a.1405 n: ivm) 941 49 r s. .1 -... OXY w•V Pwd Ro.r, " No, Ron. ei.•+ Oa F.pry Foop•.V wso 10(001011*Pail * i.wr.N.RewnQary I' LAGS IS- 0.n bea.ary OXY USA WTP LP VALLEY - NOXIOUS WEEDS Garfeid County. Colorado a ass ns ors 1:16,0PQ inch squat 1,'0 0 fee[ N • • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Figure 3 Mesa Overview OXY .NWMP 4/22/2008 OXY USA WTP L MESA - NOXIOUS WEEDS Garfield Court • .ff="111 tisi 1 SSS Cr..P Hmu. Gram Junction . Cnar..n also w: isnit Naas;a 1.:19191 211-4313 tinny com P.aytarti+."-S,,7r... rpt o ! 1l t.o1 Sta.w I[wlr• Rod PPM 1a #P{f R. b Pgaa. (+,� wa: G.. r.Pwr xPara �r // 0 TM.O Poe - 4 fo d: Rom e u0GS T S9wPunaar. Bawat, eed data w':n be adtad to the ngur, R becomes available fcAowing 2CO8 suree 1 18,000 1 inch equal r. caoreda =N ,500 teal N Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Figure 4 Logan Wash Overview OXY . NWMP 4/22/2008 • • • Wash Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Appendix A Colorado Noxious Weed List (BLM, 2007) OXY -NWMP 4/22/2008 • sw� Environmental scientists and Engineers, LLC List A African rue (Peganum harmala)GM= Camelthom (Alhagi pseudalhagi) * Common crupina (Crupina vulgaris)GM* Cypress spurge (Euphorbia cyj arissias) * Dyer's woad (Isatis tinctoria) M * Giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta) Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata)GM* Meadow knapweed (Centaurea pratensis)GM* Mediterranean sage (Salvia aethiopis)GM* Medusahead (Taeniatherum caput-medusa)GM * Myrtle spurge (Euphorbia myrsinites) Orange hawkweed (Hieracium * aurantiacum)Gm Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) Rush skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea)GM* Sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata)GM* Squarrose knapweed (Centaurea virgats�)GM Tansy ragwort (Senecio jacobaea)G t�. Yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis)GM* List 8 Absinth wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) * * Black henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)GM Bouncingbet (Saponaria officinalis)* Bull thistle (Cirsium vulgare) * Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) Chinese clematis (Clematis orientalis)GM* Common tansy (Tanacetum vedgare)* Common teasel (Dipsacus f ellonum)* Corn chamomile (Anthemis arvensis) Cutleaf teasel (Dipsacus laciniatus)* Dalmatian toadflax, broad-leaved (Linaria dalmatica)* Dalmatian toadflax, narrow -leaved (Linaria genistfolia) Dame's rocket (Hesperis matronalis) Diffuse knapweed (Centaurea d usa)GM* Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum)= Hoary cress or whitetop (Cardaria draba)* Houndstongue (Cvnoglossum officinale) Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula)GM* Mayweed chamomile (Anthemis cotula)* Moth mullein (Verbascum blattaria)* Musk thistle (Carduus nutans) Oxeye daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum) G Perennial pepperweed or tall whitetop (Lepidium lat folium)GM Plumeless thistle (Carduus acanthoides) * Quackgrass (Elytrigia repens) Redstem filaree (Erodium cicutarium) Russian knapweed (Acroptilon repens)GM* Russian -olive (Elaeagnus angustijblia)* Salt cedar (Tamarix chinensis, T.parvjora, and T. ramosissima)* Scentless chamomile (Matricaria perforata)* Scotch thistle (Onopordum acanthium) Scotch thistle (Onopordum tauricum)* Spotted knapweed (Centaurea rnaculosa)GM Spurred anoda (Anoda cristata)* Sulfur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta)M* Venice mallow (Hibiscus trionum) Wild caraway (Carum carvi)* Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus;)M Yellow toadflax (Linaria vulgaris)GM OXY -WNW 4'2212008 Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Chicory (Cichorium intybus)G Common burdock (Arctium minus)G Common mullein (Verbascum thapsus) St. Johnswort (Hypericum perforatum) Downy brome or cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) Halogeton (Halogeton glomeratus) List C Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense) Jointed goatgrass (Aegilops cylindrica) Perennial sowthistle (Sonchus arvensis) Poison hemlock (Conium maculation) Puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrastii) Wild proso millet (Panicum miliaceum) (BLM, 2007) G - Immediately report this noxious weed species to the Garfield County Weed Manager when found in Garfield County. M - Immediately report this noxious weed species to the Mesa County Weed Manager when found in Mesa County. - These noxious weed species will be mapped and inventoried to meet BLM and FS requirements. 4/22/200S OXY -NWhSP • • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Appendix B Garfield County Weed Descriptions (Garfield County, 2002) OXY -NWMP 4/22/2008 • • • -war► Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense) Canada thistle is a member of the Aster family and was introduced from Europe. It is a creeping perennial, which reproduces by seeds and fleshy, horizontal roots. The erect stem is hollow, smooth and slightly hairy, 1 to 5 feet tall, simple, and branched at the top. The flower color is primarily lavender, pink, or purple. Canada thistle emerges in May in most parts of Garfield County. It is one of the most widespread and economically damaging noxious weeds in Colorado. Infestations are found in cultivated fields, riparian areas, pastures, rangeland, forests, lawns and gardens, roadsides, and in waste areas. Because of its seeding habits, vigorous growth, and extensive underground root system, control and eradication are difficult. Chicory (Chicorium intvbus) Chicory belongs to the Sunflower family. Chicory, a simple perennial, reproduces only by seed. The plant has a deep fleshy root and tufted basal leaves that resemble those of a dandelion. The stem is multi -branched and can reach over five feet tall. The flowers are bright blue, purple, or occasionally white, and occur along the stems of the plant. The plant is closely related to the cultivated endive and is grown in some areas for the succulent leaves and the fleshy roots. The roots are dried and used as a substitute for coffee. Other names for chicory are succory, blue daisy, blue sailors, and coffeeweed. chicory is scattered throughout western Garfield County. Common Burdock (Arafura minus) Common burdock is a member of the Aster family. It is an introduced biennial, which reproduces by seeds. In the first year of growth the plant forms a rosette. The second year the plant grows erect. Burdock grows to 6 feet tall, has enormous leaves and a prickly bur. The flowers are purple and white in numerous heads. Burdock grows along roadsides, ditch banks, and neglected areas. This plant is a very serious threat to sheep as the burs can significantly damage the quality of their wool. Burdock will cause eye infections in cattle. Dalmatian Toadflax (LinariaRenistifolia) Dalmatian toadflax is a member of the Figwort family. It was introduced as an ornamental from Europe, and is common in Glenwood Springs. It is a creeping perennial with stems from 2 to 4 feet tall. The flowers are snapdragon -shaped, bright yellow, with orange centers; the leaves are waxy and heart -shaped. Dalmatian toadflax is especially well adapted to arid sites and can spread rapidly once established. Because of its deep, extensive root system and heavy seed production, this plant is difficult to manage. Diffuse Knapweed (Centaurea dirsa) Diffuse knapweed is a member of the Aster family. Diffuse knapweed was introduced from Europe and is a biennial or short-lived perennial forb, which reproduces only by seed. The plant usually produces a single main multi -branched stem that is 1 1/2 to 2 feet tall. The flower is white or pink with bracts. The largest infestation of diffuse knapweed in Garfield County is south of Glenwood Springs at the Glenwood Airport and old rodeo grounds. Hoary Cress (Cardaria draba) Hoary cress, also known as whitetop, is a member of the Mustard family, and was probably introduced from Europe in alfalfa seed. It is a creeping perennial, which reproduces by seed and creeping roots. The extensive root system spreads horizontally and vertically with frequent OXY -tiwMP 4122/2008 • • E:nvironmcntal Scientists and Engineers, LLC shoots arising from the rootstock. It grows erect from 10 to 18 inches high and has a gray -white colored leaf. The flowers are white and numerous in compact flat-topped clusters which give the plant its name. Hoary cress is one of the earliest perennial weeds to emerge in the spring, producing flowers in May or June. It grows in waste places, cultivated fields, and pastures, and is capable of vigorous growth. It is found throughout Garfield County. Houndstongue (Cvnoglossum officinale) Houndstongue is a member of the Borage family. It is a biennial that was introduced from Europe. It reproduces by seed and appears as a leafy rosette in its first year. The plant grows 1 1/2 to 3 feet high with reddish -purple flowers. Houndstongue is commonly known as the "Velcro weed" because of its small nutlets that are rapidly spread by people, domestic animals, wildlife and vehicles. Houndstongue grows on ranges, pastures, trails and roadsides and is toxic to horses and cattle, as it contains alkaloids that may cause liver cells to stop reproducing. It is common throughout Garfield County. Jointed Goatgrass (Aegilops cvlindrica) Jointed goatgrass is a member of the Grass family, Barley tribe. It is a non-native grass introduced from Turkey in the late 1800s. It is a winter annual, reproducing by seed and grows 15 to 30 inches tall in erect stems which branch at the base to give the plant a tufted appearance. Seeds of jointed goatgrass are attached to their rachis segment and shed in June and July, during and prior to wheat harvest. The seeds are very similar in size and shape to wheat seed and therefore are difficult to screen out. Jointed goatgrass is found in the Harvey Gap area and in west Mamm Creek. Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula) Leafy spurge, a member of the Spurge family, was introduced from Europe. It is a creeping perennial that reproduces by seed and extensive creeping roots. The roots can extend as deep as 30 feet from a plant that grows 1 to 3 feet tall, with pale green shoots and small yellow -green flowers. The plant, including the root, has milky latex that is damaging to eyes and sensitive skin. Leafy spurge is an extremely difficult plant to control because of its extensive sprouting root. It is adapted to a wide variety of Colorado habitats and is very competitive with other plant species. If it becomes established in rangeland, pasture, and riparian sites, it may exclude all other vegetation due to its competitive nature. There is plant is found scattered in the Wallace Creek area and there are a few plants found on the 1-70 right-of-way west of Glenwood Springs. Musk Thistle (Carduus nutans) Musk thistle is a member of the Aster family. Introduced from Eurasia, it is a winter annual or biennial which reproduces by seed. The first year's growth is a large, compact rosette from a large, fleshy, corky taproot. The second year stem is erect, spiny, 2 to 6 feet tall and branched at the top. The waxy leaves are dark green with a light green midrib and mostly white margins; flowers are purple or occasionally white. Musk thistle is also known as "nodding thistle" and is commonly found in pastures, roadsides, and waste places. It prefers moist bottomland soil, but also can be found on drier uplands. It is found throughout Garfield County. OXY -NWMP 4/22/2008 • s • Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Oxeye Daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthernum) Oxeye daisy, a member of the Aster family, is a native of Eurasia. It is an erect perennial plant with white ray and yellow disk flowers, which bloom from June through August. Oxeye daisy is commonly sold in wildflower seed mixes or transplanted as an ornamental despite its tendency to crowd out more desirable vegetation. It is scattered throughout Garfield County. Plumeless Thistle (Carduus acanthoides) Plumeless thistle is a member of the Aster family. Introduced from Eurasia, it is a winter annual or biennial which reproduces by seed. This plant can be distinguished from musk thistle by its smaller flowers from y/2 to 1 inch in diameter. The leaves of plumeless thistle lack the prominent white margin present on musk thistle leaves. The plant may grow to a height of 5 feet or more. Flowers are reddish -purple and are either solitary or clustered. Taproots are large and fleshy. Plumeless thistle is an extremely prolific seed producer. It is found in pastures, river valleys, and along roadsides. It is found throughout southern Garfield County and is becoming a problem south of Battlement Mesa. Purple Loosestrife (Lvthrum salicaria) Purple loosestrife is a member of the Loosestrife family. It is a perennial introduced from Europe. The erect, square stem can reach 1 %2 to 8 feet tall with magenta -colored flowers. Purple loosestrife is a highly aggressive invader species that can be found in most wetland sites throughout the state. If left unchecked, a wetland will eventually become a monoculture of loosestrife, posing a severe threat to waterfowl habitat and impeding water flow in irrigation ditches. There are no confirmed locations in Garfield County. Russian Knapweed (Acroptilon repens) Russian knapweed is a member of the Aster family introduced from Europe. It is a creeping perennial that reproduces by seed and creeping, horizontal roots. The ridged stems are stiff and 1 to 3 feet high, with thistle -like flowers that are lavender to white. It is very difficult to control or eradicate once it becomes established. It grows in cultivated fields, along ditch banks, fence rows, roadsides, and in waste places. Russian knapweed is toxic to horses. It is most common in the Dry Hollow, Silt Mesa, and Missouri Heights areas. Russian Olive (Elaeagnus an:gustifolia) Russian Olive is a member of the Oleaster family. A hardy, fast-growing tree from Europe, Russian Olive has been promoted for windrow and ornamental plantings. This tree may reach heights from 10 to 25 feet. The trunks and branches are armed with 1 to 2 inch woody thorns. The leaves are covered with small scales which give the foliage a distinctive silvery appearance. The fruit is berry -like, and is silvery when first formed but turns brown at maturity. Very common in western Garfield County especially along the Colorado River between Silt and Rifle, Colorado. Salt Cedar (Tamarix ramosissima, Tamarixparviflora) Salt cedar is a member of the Tamarisk family. It is a deciduous or evergreen shrub or small tree, 5 to 25 feet tall. Tamarisk may live 50 to 100 years. It has a wide range of tolerance to saline and alkaline soil and water. It copes with high concentrations of dissolved solids by absorbing them through its roots and excreting salts through glands in its stem and leaves. The excreted salts OXY -NWNW 4/2212008 • • • Wdltii l Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC eventually form a saline crust on the soil. A single plant of saltcedar will use about 200 gallons of water per day while it is actively growing. The bark on the saplings and stems is reddish - brown. Leaves are small and scale -like, on highly branched slender stems. Ramosissima is 5 - petaled and pink to white. Parviflora is 4 -petaled. Introduced from Eurasia, tamarisk is widespread in Garfield County, along the Colorado River from Glenwood Canyon to the Mesa County Line. Scotch Thistle (Onopordunr acanthium) Scotch thistle is a member of the Aster family. It is a biennial that was introduced from Europe or eastern Asia and can reach a height of 8 feet. The rosette forms the first year and can have leaves up to 2 feet long and 1 foot wide. The second year the plant produces flowers that are reddish -purple to violet. It is found primarily along roadsides and railroads, but can become an impassable obstacle to livestock on rangeland and pastures. Commonly found between Glenwood Springs and New Castle, Colorado. Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea maculosa) Spotted knapweed is a member of the Aster family. Native to Central Europe, it is a simple perennial that reproduces from seed and forms a new shoot each year from a taproot. The plant can have one or more shoots up to 4 feet tall. Flower color is usually lavender to purple. Spotted knapweed occupies dry meadows, pastures, stony hills, roadsides, and the sandy or gravel flood plains of streams and rivers, where soils are light textured, well -drained, and receive summer precipitation. Spotted knapweed tolerates dry conditions, similar to diffuse knapweed, but will survive in higher moisture areas as well. There is a small infestation south of Battlement Mesa and scattered, isolated patches are increasing in Garfield County. Yellow Starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis) Yellow starthistle is a member of the Aster family. It is an annual, 2 to 3 feet tall, that was introduced from Europe. Flowers are yellow, located singly on ends of branches, and armed with sharp straw-colored thorns up to % inch long. "Chewing disease" results when horses are forced to eat yellow starthistle. Currently, there are no confirmed reports of starthistle in the Garfield County; however single plants have been reported in the past. There are known infestations in neighboring counties. Yellow Toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) Yellow toadflax is a member of the Figwort family and is sometimes called common toadflax or "butter and eggs." It was introduced from Europe as an ornamental and has now become a serious problem to rangelands and mountain meadows. It is a perennial reproducing from seed, as well as from underground rootstalk. The flowers are bright yellow with deep orange centers that resemble the snapdragon. Yellow toadflax does well in all types of soils. Its displacement of desirable grasses not only reduces ecological diversity, but also reduces rangeland value and can lead to erosion problems. Because of its early vigorous growth, extensive underground root system, and effective seed dispersal methods, yellow toadflax is difficult to control. Yellow toadflax infests thousands of acres in the Flat Tops Wilderness. ©XY.W.0 4122'2008 • ±zWaLsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC HOW TO DISTINGUISH VARIETIES OF THISTLE, KNAPWEED AND TOADFLAX THISTLES Four types of thistles are on the Garfield County Noxious Weed List. Canada thistle is a perennial; it has an extensive root system. Plumeless, Scotch, and musk thistles are biennials; they are relatively shallow rooted and reproduce by seed only. Canada and plumeless thistle are often mistaken for eachother, however it is very simple to tell them apart. Canada has a smooth stem; plumeless has spiny stem leaves. The bracts under the flower of Canada are spineless; the bracts under the flower of plumeless appear as sharp spines. The flowers of musk thistle are about three times larger than those of Canada or plumeless. Musk thistle seedlings have a very prominent white midrib. Scotch thistle leaves are larger than those of the other thistles. They grow up to 2 feet in length and 1 foot wide. The leaves are covered with dense hairs, which give them a gray appearance. All of the biennial thistles may grow to heights of greater than six feet. Canada thistle may grow from 1 to 4 feet tall. Colorado has several species of thistle which are native and do not cause the problems of the species. Native thistles have mostly white, sometimes very pale lavender flowers and are more succulent than the noxious species. The flowers may have a hairy or fuzzy appearance and stems of some species are reddish. KNAPWEEDS Russian knapweed is a perennial with an extensive underground root system. Spotted knapweed is a biennial, or occasionally a short-lived perennial with a short taproot. Generally, the flowers of spotted and Russian knapweed are pinkish -purple, diffuse flowers are white, however there are exceptions. The best way to distinguish between the knapweeds is by the bracts. The bracts of Russian knapweed are white and papery -thin. Diffuse knapweed has sharp -toothed bracts. Spotted knapweed bracts are more like a fringe (not as spiny) with a black spot on each bract. TOADFLAX The best way to distinguish the different toadflaxes is to look at the shape of the leaves. Yellow toadflax has narrow leaves that are pointed at both ends; the leaves of Dalmatian toadflax are heart -shaped, clasp the stem, and are waxy with a blue green color. Yellow toadflax tends to be a smaller plant than Dalmatian toadflax. OXY - NWMP 4/22/2008 • • Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Appendix C Pa11er and Girard Inc, 2007 OXY -r-WMP 4/22/2008 Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC NOXIOUS WEED MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR OXY USA WTP LP Prepared by Paller & Girard, Inc. January, 2007 INTRODUCTION: This plan is intended to be used as a guide for the management of County and State designated noxious weeds on lands owned, leased or managed by OXY USA WTP LP in Garfield County, Colorado. Priority will be given to eradication of Garfield County designated noxious weeds. (Appendix B). A Noxious Weed Inventory of OXY USA WTP LP facilities in the Conn Creek and Upper Oxy/Trail Ridge areas was conducted in September 2006. This Management Plan will be used to address the findings of the Inventory in a coordinated manner using Federal and State approved Integrated Weed Management methods. I. Inventory and Mapping A visual inspection of OXY USA WTP LP facilities was conducted in the fall of 2006. The results are attached to this document (Appendix A). A corresponding map is also included. Results of the inventory will be added to the OXY GIS system at a later date. All areas will be re -inspected annually and newly disturbed acreages will be inspected and added to the inventory as they occur. II. Prevention One of the best ways to prevent noxious weed from becoming established is to re -vegetate all newly disturbed areas with competitive species of plants. Although there is expected to be little or no soil disturbance at either the Conn Creek or Cascade Treating Facilities, if necessary, the area will be reclaimed using the following seed mixture and methods. Seed mixtures for other areas are also listed below. Any reclamation projects on BLM lands will utilize seed mixes approved by that agency. Recommended Seed Mix for Treating Facility Scientific Name Common Name Pascopyrum smithii Etymus lanceolatus lanceolatus Pseudoroegneria spicata spicata Achnatherum hymenoides Atriplex canescans Astragalus cicer Onobrychis viciaefoli Western wheatgrass Thickspike wheatgrass Bluebunch wheatgrass Indian ricegrass Fourwing saltbrush Cicer milkvetch Sainfoin Application Rate Lbs PLS/acre 4 3 2 1.5 1 1 Total 13.5 OXY -\'SUMP 4/22/200S =Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Oxy Standard Seed Mix Species Pls % Russian Wild Ryegrass VNS 16.86 Mountain Brome, Bromar 16.86 Orchardgrass, Paiute 16.36 Intermediate Wheatgrass, Oahe 15.98 Regreen 404 14.70 Crested Wheatgrass, Hycrest 8.24 Pubescent Wheatgrass, Luna 8.09 Note: The recommended seed mixtures should be applied with a broadcast seeder followed by harrowing with a sharp- toothed harrow to achieve a cover depth of 1/4 to 2 inches. If mulch is used it should be Certified weed -free straw or hay or packaged hydromulch. Revegetation projects should be evaluated one year after completion for effectiveness. 11I. Treatment Priority will be given to Garfield County listed noxious weeds. Herbicide treatments will be approved by Chris Clark, Regulatory Specialist for OXY USA WTP LP (970)263-3628. All herbicide treatments will be performed by Colorado Department of Agriculture licensed personnel using approved herbicides. Product label directions will be strictly adhered to. Special precautions to protect sensitive vegetation, surface and ground water resources will include: 1. No herbicide applications when wind exceeds 10 mph to reduce the chance of drift and related damage to non -target plants. 2. Only aquatic labeled herbicides will be used near surface water and wetlands. 3. Bareground herbicides will not be applied if heavy rainfall is expected to occur on the same day to reduce the chances of the product moving off-site. Methods of Treatment: Chemical: Due to the nature of current weed infestations and species present, chemical treatments will be the most effective and cost efficient. Herbicides will be applied by truck mounted power sprayers, ATVs and/or backpack sprayers as appropriate for each individual situation. Specific herbicides and application rates for each species identified in the Noxious Weed Inventory are included in the attached document (Appendix A). Herbicide treatments of noxious weeds are expected to begin in May, 2007 at Conn Creek and other lower elevation facilities, and in July, 2007 on Upper Oxy/Trail Ridge locations. Note: Any herbicide applications performed on BLM lands will have prior approval via the Pesticide Use Proposal process. OXY -NWMP 4/22/2008 Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Mechanical: Annual and Biennial noxious weeds may be controlled by chopping the root below ground level with a shovel or hoe. This method can be used by Occidental field personnel when individual plants or small infestations are encountered. Evaluation of Treatments and Follow-up Treatments All treatments will be evaluated for efficacy in the fall of 2007 and re -treatment will be performed if necessary. Inspections will be conducted throughout the spraying season and any new findings will be added to the GIS mapping system. OXY USA WTP LP NOXIOUS WEED INVENTORY CONN CREEK AND TRAIL RIDGE WELL LOCATIONS UPDATED: OCTOBER 2006 INTRODUCTION: A visual inspection of all OXY USA WTP LP (OXY) well locations and access roads was conducted in September of 2006. The main goal of the inventory was to indentify Garfield County designated noxious weeds on or near OXY facilities. The results of the inventory will be used to manage the weeds so as to bring OXY into compliance with State and local weed management ordinances. OVERVIEW: The noxious weed problems encountered during the inventory were relatively small in relation to the size of the production area. The majority of the noxious weds identified were Biennials, (2 year life cycle), and can be controlled over several years using spot treatment methods with herbicides to be named later in this document. Other nuisance annual and biennial weeds are mentioned in this inventory when they may pose problems such as restricting access inside fenced areas around production equipment or create a fire hazard after plants dry out in late summer. Bare ground treatments are recommended on these sites in the "NOTES" section of the inventory even though they do not contain designated noxious weeds. INTERPRETING THE RESULTS: In the "NOTES" section of the inventory, weed species are abbreviated using the following codes: B.T. = Bull thistle (Cirsuim vugare) Biennial H.T. = Houndstonge (Cynoglossum officinale) Biennial C.T. = Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) Perennial C.M. = Common mullein (Verbascum thapsus) Biennial B.D. = Common burdock (Arctuim minus) Biennial M.T. = Musk thistle (Carduus nutans) Biennial R.T. = Russian thistle (Salsola tragus) Annual - NWMP 4/22/2008 • • #Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC USING THE ACCOMPANYING MAP: The number in parentheses next to the well location number in this document corresponds to the number in the orange dot on the large map. Coordinates for these, and any future weed locations will be obtained using a global positioning unit and can be found in an attachment to the map. TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS BIENNIALS Bull thistle: Spray with Tordon 22K herbicide at 1 pints per acre when plant is in the rosette stage of growth, increase rate to 1 '/2 pints per acre when plant has bolted. Musk thistle: Same as Bull thistle. Houndstonge: Spray with Tordon 22K herbicide at 1 1/2 pint per acre in the rosette stage of growth. Common mullein: Spray with Escort or Telar herbicides at 1 once prior to bloom. Add a quality surfactant to increase herbicide effectiveness. Or spray with Tordon 22K at 1 pint per acre when plant is in the rosette stage. Common burdock: Spray with Redeem herbicide at 2 quarts per acre in rosette or in early bolt stage of growth. ANNUALS Russian thistle: Spray with 2, 4-D, 41b. Amine at 2 quarts per acre in early spring. Add a high quality surfactant to increase herbicide effectiveness. Or spray with Roundup at 2 quarts per acre in early spring. Kochia: Same treatment as for Russian thistle. PERENNIALS Canada thistle: Spray with Tordon 22K herbicide at 1 quart per acre when plant is in bud to bloom stage of growth or during fall re -growth. OXY •',YWW2 4/22/2008 • • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC BAREGROUND TREATMENTS : Spray designated areas with a pre -emergent herbicide such as Sahara DG at 10 pounds per acre, plus Roundup at 2 quarts per acre in early spring prior to normal periods of rainfall. Note: On Federal surface locations all spraying activities will be coordinated with the local BLM Office, Noxious Weed Coordinator. Only approved herbicides will be utilized. Updated: October, 2006 WEED INVENTORY LOCATIONS NOTES 612-21-32 Clean 697-16-42 Clean 609-2 (1) <50 H.T. plants, R.T. and Grasses in Containment area. Recommended bare ground spray. 609-33 (2) < 50 H.T. plants, and C.M. plants around equipment and tanks. Scattered patches around edges. Fed 23 -15 Clean 697-15-54 Clean TELCO 22-I (3) H.T. and B.T. along access road < 1 acre infestation. Fed 70$-11 No noxious weeds but large area infested with Kochia. Spray early in the season. 620-24-43 Large C.M. patch on access road to pad. 620-21 Scattered patches of C.M. heavy veg. around water tank. Recommend bare ground spray. Pad has been expanded and most veg has been removed. 620-43-32 Clean 629-31-11 Clean 632-2141 Clean OXY - V1+ihfl• 4/22/2008 • • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC 629-2342 Clean 629-2 Clean WEED INVENTORY LOCATIONS NOTES 705-22-43 Clean 795-05-36 Clean 797-05-52 Clean 697-05-01 Clean 610-24-43 Clean 610-23-32 Clean 604-44 Clean 605-1 < I0 Bull thistle plants, grass in equipment area. Recommend bare ground spraying. 605-23 Clean 605-13-22 Clean 605-2 (5) Heavy B.T. and H.T. around perimeter of site. Infestation is <2 acres. 604-1 (6) < 20 H.T., some vegetation around equipment. Bare ground treatment recommended. 608-41 (7) Very heavy H.T. on access road cut, light H.T. on pad, 1 M.T. plant and 20 B.T. plants around water tank. 608-43-31 (8) Light H.T. on access road < 1 acre. 609-1 (9) < 10 H.T on access road some grass and vegetation around equipment. Bare ground treatment recommended. 617-41 Clean aKY • NW 1P 4/22/2008 • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC WEED INVENTORY LOCATIONS NOTES 609-14 (10) 2 C.T. plants at well head Roadside N.of Cascade Cr. Facility (4) Heavy H.T., M.T. and B.Q. infestation est. 1+ acres. Cascade Cr. Facility (11) Conn Cr. Facility Scattered patches of H.T., M.T., C.M., and B.D., mostly north of entrance road. Infestation < 1 acre. (12) Small scattered patches of H.T., B.D., and C.M. on east side of facility, <2 acres. Scattered patches M.T. on west side approximately 2 acres. On . NMP 4/22/2008 Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Appendix D Garfield Treatment Methods (Garfield County, 2002) (*CV ..wwm 4/212008 • • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC CANADA THISTLE Description: Comments: Chemical control: Cultural control: Mechanical control: CHICORY Description: Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: Mechanical control: Perennial. Reproduces from vegetative buds in root system and from seed. Canada thistle is best managed through an integrated managetnr~at system that emphasizes competitive, desirable plants. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Maintain soil fertility and moisture at optimum levels to favor grass growth. Research indicates that mowing of Canada thistle may be effective when done repeatedly at two week intervals over a period of several years. Pulling and digging up Canada thistle is ineffective as the plant has such an extensive root system. Simple perennial. Chicory is well established in western Garfield County (Parachute) and is spreading rapidly in other parts of the County. Close grazing by sheep will control the chicory in pastures. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Re -seed disturbed areas adjacent to chicory infestations with appropriate perennial grasses. None available. COMMON BURDOCK Description: Comments: Biennial. Prolific seed producer. Burs may become entangled in the hair of livestock, wilcllite, or pets allowing seed to be distributed to new areas. Biological control: None currently available. OXY •vwnm 4122/2©[13 Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Chemical control: Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Cultural control: Minimize soil disturbances, encourage desirable plant growth. Mechanical control: Top growth removal through mowing or cutting is effective as is pulling or digging out the plant at flowering or early seed formation DALMATIAN TOADFLAX Description: Aggressive perennial, escaped ornamental. Comments: Widespread in Glenwood Springs. Biological control: The defoliating moth, Cataphasia lunula, has been released on Dalmatian and yellow toadflax. It may defoliate up to 20% of the plant's leaves Chemical control: Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Cultural control: Re -seed disturbed areas adjacent to toadflax infestations with appropriate perennial grasses. Mechanical control: Repeated mowing 2-3 times per year will slow spread and reduce seed production. Education: The key to Dalmatian toadflax management is to create awareness among homeowners, nurseries, landscapers, and landscape architects that Dalmatian toadflax is a noxious weed and therefore should not be specified in plantings, sold in nurseries or planted in home gardens or large-scale landscape projects. DIFFUSE KNAPWEED Description: Biennial, reproduces by seed. Comments: Increasingly common in Garfield County. The largest infestation is at the Glenwood Springs Airport. Biological control: Two seed head flies, Urophora affrnis and U. quadrifasciata, are available. They reduce seed production. A root -boring moth, Agapeta zaegana, causes considerable damage to roots. Chemical control: Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator. for specific recommendations. OXY . NWMP 4/22/2008 • Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Cultural control: Reseeding of disturbed sites with fast growing grasses helps prevent diffuse knapweed establishment. Mechanical control: Handpulling has been effective, if done persistently over time. HOARY CRESS Description: Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: Mechanical control: HOUNDSTONGUE Description: Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: A very competitive, deep-rooted perennial that reproduces by root segments and by seed. Common in Garfield County. None currently available. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Mowing or cultivation effectiveness will be increased if other plants like perennial native grasses or alfalfa are seeded in the hoary cress stand as competitors. Maintain range and pasture in good condition. Promote healthy grass growth through proper irrigation and fertilization. Do not overgraze. Removal of top growth is somewhat effective. Repeated treatments may. reduce seed production and spread. Biennial. Prolific seed producer. Seed nutlets break apart at maturity and cling to clothing or animals. Widespread throughout Garfield County. None currently available. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Re -seed disturbed sites with fast growing native grasses. Maintain range and pasture in good condition. Promote healthy grass growth through proper irrigation and fertilization. Do not overgraze. Mechanical control: Houndstongue is a prolific seed producer, and the seeds are readily spread OXY-Naetr 4/22/2008 • �alsll Environmental scientists and Engineers, LLC by their ability to stick to wildlife and domestic animals. Physical removal of the plant at flowering or in early seed formation, by pulling or digging, will break the cycle of the plant. LEAFY SPURGE Description: Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: A perennial up to three feet tall that reproduces by vigorous root stalks and seed. Leafy spurge is primarily found in Wallace Creek in western Garfield County. An extremely difficult -to -control perennial weed that will require re -treatments to achieve adequate control. Development of a management plan is helpful to manage large areas of leafy spurge. Sheep or goats will graze leafy spurge. If livestock graze leafy spurge after seed formation, hold animals in a corral for at least seven days before moving them to an uninfested area to avoid seed spread. Several flea beetles (Apthona spp). are available from the Colorado Department of Agriculture Insectary in Palisade. These insects are available upon request at no charge to the public. The larvae bore into leafy spurge roots and the adults feed on the leaves. Also available from the Insectary are Oberea erythrocephala, a stem and root crown mining long -homed beetle, and Spurgia esulae, a shoot tip gall midge. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Any activity that encourages vigorous grass growth is very important. Overgrazing stresses grasses and makes them less competitive to leafy spurge. Mechanical control: Mowing leafy spurge at 14 to 21 day intervals may cause higher susceptibility to fall applied herbicides. MUSK THISTLE Description: Comments: Biological control: Musk thistle is a biennial and the key to its successful management is to prevent seed formation. Scattered throughout the County, heaviest in the Crystal River Valley. The musk thistle seed head weevil, Rhinocyllus conieus, is wide -spread in Colorado. Larvae of this insect destroy developing seeds but are not 100 percent effective by themselves. The weevil normally impacts seed OXY -NWMP 4/22!2008 Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Chemical control: Cultural control: Mechanical control: OXEYE DAISY Description: Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: Mechanical control: Education: production by about 50 percent. Herbicides can be combined with weevils if the insects are allowed to complete their life cycles. Another weevil, Trichosirocalusks the crown area of musk thistle rosettes and ant before it bolts. This weevil has reduced stand density in areas where it has become well established. A leaf feeding beetle, Cassidia rubiiginosa, causes considerable damage by skeletonizing leaves. It is recommended to release more than one type of insect on a weed since each type may work on different parts of the plant. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Musk thistle, like other biennial thistles, thrives on disturbance. The best management is to minimize disturbance. If it does occur be certain to revegetate with competitive perennial grasses. The most effective type of mechanical control is to hand pull this plant prior to flowering. This can be unrealistic on large acreage or when the ground is very dry. Another option is to use a shovel to cut the root below the surface of the soil more than necessary. If it has already flowered the plant should be removed and placed in a bag and disposed of. Mowing is not effective on this species unless repeated numerous times throughout the growing season since musk thistle will flower and produce seed even after on or two mowings. A rhizomatous perennial, escaped ornamental. A rapidly spreading weed in Garfield County. None currently available. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. None available. No information available. The key to oxeye daisy management is to create an awareness among homeowners, nurseries, landscapers, and landscape architects that oxeye is a noxious weed and therefore should not be specified in plantings, sold in nurseries or planted in home gardens or large-scale landscape projects. oxr-!MAW 4/22/2008 Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC PLUMELESS THISTLE Description: Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: Mechanical control: A biennial, prolific seed producer. Common in southern Garfield County, rapidly spreading south of Battlement Mesa. The same seed head weevil, Rhinocyllus conicus, that attacks musk thistle also feeds on plumeless thistle seeds. Another musk thistle weevil, Triehosirocalus horridus, has been released on plumeless thistle in Garfield County. This weevil appears to be ineffective on piumeless. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Plumeless thistle, like other biennial thistles, thrives on disturbance. The best management is to minimize disturbance and revegetate with competitive perennial species Mowing is generally not effective on plumeless due to the plant's capacity for rapid re -growth. Hand cutting is not effective unless there are repeated follow-up treatments. Hand cutting should only be conducted if there is a commitment to follow-up efforts. Plumeless tends to branch out where it is cut and then it re -flowers. Pulling plumeless can be very effective, especially if done after a light rain. Hand pulling, with a good set of gloves, is preferable to shoveling. Shoveling disturbs the ground thus creating a potential seedbed for future infestations. PURPLE LOOSESTR.IFE Description: Comments: Biological control: An introduced perennial. This escaped ornamental is also a prolific seed producer, able to produce over 10,000 seeds per quare yard. The US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Colorado Division of Wildlife are extremely alarmed about the proliferation of purple loosestrife in wetland and riparian habitats. Biological control may eventually bring weed populations under control, but it will not eliminate or prevent the spread of noxiousweeds. A survey of loosestrife populations in Europe has resulted in the selection of five insects which may have potential as biocontrols. Three of these species have completed initial screening tests conducted by the International Institute of Biological Control, in Switzerland and one, Hylobius transverovittatus, a root mining weevil which attacks the vascular tissue of the plant, was subsequently released in New York in 1991. OXY -NWMP 4/22/2008 • • • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Chemical control: Cultural control: Mechanical control: Education: Contact Garfiled County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Not available. Mechanical methods include hand pulling, mowing, and flooding. Hand pulling is effective when infestations are detected early. The root system must be completely removed, since the root sections can sprout and form new plants. For this reason hand pulling is only effective on small plants. The key to purple loosestrife management and other escaped ornamentals is to create an awareness among homeowners, nurseries, landscapers, and landscape architects that purple loosestrife is a noxious weed and therefore should not be specified in plantings, sold in nurseries or planted in home gardens or large-scale landscape projects. RUSSIAN KNAPWEED Description: Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: A perennial with an extensive underground root system. This weed is very common in Garfield County. Like other creeping perennials, the key to Russian knapweed control is to stress the weed and cause it to expend nutrient stores in its root system. An integrated management plan should be developed that places continual stress on the weed. Currently, the best management plan includes cultural control combined with mechanical and/or chemical control techniques. A single control strategy, such as mowing or a herbicide, usually is not sufficient. The plant is toxic to horses, however they must consume it over a period of time before poisoning will occur. Once poisoning occurs horses are unable to chew and advance food to the back of their mouths, swallowing is impaired and horses can drink only if they immerse their head in water far enough to get water to the back of their mouths. Poisoning is irreversible and death by starvation will occur. None currently available. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Russian knapweed tends to form monocultures by eliminating other plants. Therefore, sowing desirable plant species is necessary after the weed is controlled. Research indicates that the native grasses, strearnbank wheatgrass and thickspike wheatgrass will establish in an area after Russian knapweed is suppressed with herbicides. If the Russian knapweed stand is not too old and grasses are still present, stimulating grass growth OXY NAM' 4/22/2008 =mwailsn Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC by irrigation (where possible) should increase grass competition with knapweed and keep it under continual stress. Mechanical controls: Repeated mowing combined with herbicide applications will gradually stress the plant. RUSSIAN OLIVE Description: Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: Mechanical control: SALT CEDAR Description: Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: Mechanical control: A tree that may reach heights from 10 to 25 feet. Very common along the Colorado River and other drainages in Western Garfield County. None available. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Plant native trees or less aggressive introduced trees. In riparian areas establish native riparian vegetation. Small trees may be controlled mechanically by using an appropriate tool or shovel. Shrub or small tree. Widespread throughout Garfield County. There are experimental projects being conducted in a few areas in the West involving the release of mealybugs and leafbeetles. These are not cleared for general release. The recent listing of the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (a native species that nests in saltcedar) under the Endangered Species Act has challenged efforts to move forward with release of insects for biocontrol. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific reeorrunendations. Establish native riparian vegetation. Historical saltcedar management projects have included root plowing and raking, dozing, mowing, and prescribed burning. These methods provide only short-term benefits and are labor intensive. oxi - VveMP 4/2212008 • • .Walsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC SCOTCH THISTLE Description: A biennial. Comments: Common in Garfield County, the worst infestations are located between Glenwood Springs and New Castle. Biological control: None currently available. Chemical control: Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Cultural control: Reseed disturbed sites with appropriate perennial grasses. Mechanical control: Digging the plant at the rosette stage is effective. SPOTTED KNAPWEED Description: A short-lived, non -creeping perennial that reproduces from seed and forms a new shoot each year from a taproot. Comments: One of the most invasive, aggressive weeds to plague the western United States. Small infestation located in the Battlements. Biological control: The seedhead flies, Urophora agar`s and Urophora quadrifasciata, have been released in many Front Range counties. These insects cause plants to produce fewer viable seeds and abort terminal or lateral flowers. Root feeding insects may have more of a detrimental effect on knapweed populations than seed feeding insects. Larvae of the yellow winged knapweed moth feed in the roots of both knapweed species. Chemical control: Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Cultural control: If desirable grass competition is evident in spotted knapweed stands, judicious herbicide application that does not injure grasses may release them to compete effectively with the weeds. Irrigation may help stimulate grass competition in these cases. Seeding suitable perennial grasses is necessary to prevent weed re -invasion. Mechanical control: None available. YELLOW STARTHISTLE Description: Annual, prolific seed producer. OXY -rswate 4/22/2008 Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Comments: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: In California alone, this plant has infested more than 20 million acres. There are no known infestations in Garfield County; however there have been reports in the past of single -plant infestations. A seed -feeding beetle, Bangasterus orientalis, has been released in California and Idaho. Seed weevils and seed flies have also been released. In Garfield County, we hope to detect and eradicate any infestations of starthistle before biocontrols are necessary. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Vigorous competitive grass is essential to maintain a plant community's resistance to starthistle invasion. Mechanical control: Mowing or cutting starthistle is rarely effective. YELLOW TOADFLAX Description: Comment: Biological control: Chemical control: Cultural control: Education: An escaped ornamental perennial reproducing by seed and rootstalk. Prevalent in the Flattops. One insect species Calophasia lunula a defoliating moth has been released on yellow toadflax. It may defoliate up to 20 percent of the leaves. Contact Garfield County Vegetation Management or a licensed applicator for specific recommendations. Attempt to maintain competitive communities of desirable species. Re- seed any open ground with perennial grasses to prevent invasion by other weed species. The key to management of yellow toadflax and other escaped ornamentals is to create awareness among homeowners, nurseries, landscapers, and landscape architects that yellow toadflax is a noxious weed and therefore should not be specified in plantings, sold in nurseries or planted in home gardens or large-scale landscape projects. Mechanical control: Digging and pulling where feasible, can provide effective control of Toadflax if continued annually for 10-15 years. OXY . NWMP 4'22/2008 �a1s1x Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Appendix E Pesticide Use Proposal (PUP) (BLM, 2007) ©xY. NWMP 4/22/2008 • • • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Colorado BLM Pesticide Use Proposal Form and Instructions PROPOSAL NUMBER: EA NUMBER (S) : OPERATOR: FIELD OFFICE: COUNTY: DATE: LOCATION: DURATION OF PROPOSAL: I. PESTICIDE APPLICATION (including mixtures and surfactants): TRADE NAME(s): COMMON NAME(S): EPA REGISTRATION NUMBER(s): MANUFACTURER (5) : FORMULATION: Liquid \ Granular \ METHOD OF APPLICATION: MAXIMUM RATE OF APPLICATION: USE UNIT ON LABEL: POUNDS ACTIVE INGREDIENT/ACRE: INTENDED RATE OF APPLICATION: APPLICATION DATE(S): NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS(indicate total per year): II. PEST (List specific pest(s) and reason(s) for application): III. MAJOR DESIRED PLANT SPECIES PRESENT (Describe native vegetation): Instructions for BUM Pesticide Use Proposal Submissions A BLIvl pesticide use proposal (PUP) package contains a copy of the site specific environmental assessment (EA) where each proposal was assessed, copies of labels of any chemicals and surfactants proposed for use, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for any chemicals and surfactants proposed for use, and a properly and completely filled out proposal including any specific attachments. OXY • NWMP 4/22/2008 Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC The BLM PUP is a Departmental form and its purpose is to enable the bureaus or agencies in the Department of the Interior to pass specific information about pesticide use on lands administered in those bureaus or agencies back to the Department. The form is designed to provide the Department with precise information on pests, chemicals, rates of application, locations of application, and how sensitive situations are handled. It is also designed to provide the site specific information about chemical use on BLM lands, and is required as a Condition of Approval on our Chemical EIS efforts. One proposal is not designed to cover all the general weed problems in one Resource Area or District. A proposal that provides site specific information is more likely to meet Department, Bureau, and State Office standards for pesticide use than a proposal that generalizes weed situations and potential pesticide use. Instructions on how to fill out each section of the proposal are included below. The examples in this information concerning specific labels and products are current in January 1994, but labels do change on a regular basis. Proposal Number The proposal number is one used to track each proposal. Typically, each office keeps a log. The BLM Energy Office Ecologist will assign a unique number based on year, state, office code, and the number of proposals issued in that office each year. This number needs to be written on both pages of the proposal. The State Pesticide Coordinator will not approve a proposal without a current proposal number. Reference Number This is the EA number(s) of which this pesticide application specifically refers to. This number needs to be written on both pages of the proposal. The State Pesticide Coordinator will not approve a proposal without an EA number listed in this section of the proposal. The Colorado Record of Decision for the Vegetation Treatment on BLM Lands in Thirteen Western States requires site specific analysis for all pesticide use. The BLM Energy Office Ecologist will fill in this section. Operator Name of the oil and gas operator for whom the pesticide application is to be conducted. Field Office Refers to the BLM field office that will process the PUP before sending to on to the State Office. Location Refers to the Specific site (township, range, section, and portion of a section) where this application will take place. More than one site is possible per PUP if the same chemical in the same amount is to be sprayed at each site. If several sites will be covered with one PUP, list the exact locations and the estimated acreage of each site to be sprayed on a separate page. Label the page with the proposal number and the reference number and attach the sheet to the PUP. In oil and gas fields, rather than listing the location of each pad, provide a location of the field and include a map. Estimate the number of acres to be sprayed in each field. Maps of the locations) of each application are not necessary in other proposal submissions; however, they do provide a good framework for impact analysis, especially cumulative impact analysis across space. Duration of Proposal The State Pesticide Coordinator will approve proposals for up to three years. If more than one year's approval is desired, state the years in which the herbicide will be reapplied. 1. Pesticide Application (include mixtures and surfactants) Mixtures of herbicides can be approved if at least one of the labels states that mixture is compatible and if the mixture, or one of the chemicals in the mixture, is labeled to control the speck pest listed on the proposal. Trade Name(s) The trade name is the same as the brand name and is listed on the herbicide label. For example, the trade name of the most commonly used tebuthiuron for sagebrush control is Spike 20P. "Spike" alone is not the trade name. Dow/Elanco also makes Spike 80W, Spike 5G, Spike 10, Spike 40P, and Spike Brush Pellets. Provide the information for any surfactants requested as well as for any chemicals. oai'.NWMP 4/22/2008 Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Common Name(s) The front page of every label has a section that states what the active ingredient in the herbicide is. On the Spike 20P label, tebuthiuron is the common name. It is followed by the chemical name N-[5-(1,l-dimethylethly)-1,3,4- thiadiazol-2-y1]-N,N-dimethylurea. It is not necessary to put the chemical name on a PUP. The Banvel label lists its active ingredient as "dimethylamine salt of dicamba." EPA Registration Number All herbicides are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The registration number is one of the best ways a specific product can be identified. All herbicide labels have an EPA registration number. It is typically listed on the front page of a label. As with most other information on herbicide labels, EPA registration numbers can change. If you are not using the most currently available herbicide supply, include both the new number and state with the old number that you are using previously registered herbicide material, and include both the old and the most recent labels in your proposal package. Manufacturer(s) The manufacturer is the company which produces the herbicide. The manufacturer's name is always listed on the front page of a herbicide label, Formulation The type of formulation is listed on the label. Emulisifiable concentrates, solutions, fiowables, aerosols, invert emulsions, and fumigants are considered "liquid" formulations. "Dry" formulations include dusts, baits, granules, pellets, wettable powders, soluble powders, microencapsulation, and water -dispersible granules. Method of Application There are numerous types of application equipment, including hand sprayers, small motorized sprayers, generators, foggers, fumigators, dusters, wiper applicators, etc. If you will be using a sprayer attached to a type of aircraft, please state you will be using aircraft. Certain herbicides sprayed by aircraft require Washington Office approval because of the increased potential drift. problems. For more information on applicators, see Applying Pesticides Correctly, A Guide for Private and Commercial Applicators, Maximum Rate of Application The maximum rate of application refers to the maximum amount of herbicide in measurable amounts (use unit on label) and inactive ingredients that a label states can be used for specific target weed species listed as the pest on the proposal. The maximum amount of active ingredient is a ratio calculation, When calculating the rates of application, do not round numbers up. Rounding up may result in stating a number on your proposal that exceeds the label or BLM maximum. Use Unit on Label Typically, labels have several different species lists with different rates of application. For example, if a proposal states you NN ill be using "Escort" to control common mullein, the maximum rate of application is 1/2 ounce per acre. The "Escort" label also states that 4 ounces of product may be used to control Kudzu. But this information is irrelevant for this proposal, since the target species is common mullein, Another example: if the target species on a proposal to use "Banvel" is bull thistle, the maximum rate of application use unit on label on pasture, rangeland, and non -cropland areas is 3 pints. Bull thistle is on the list of biennials that "Banvel" will control. The maximum amount of product that may be used for biennials on the label is 3 pints for those that are bolting. Pounds (or Ounces) of Active Ingredient Per Acre Active ingredient is typically listed in pounds per acre. There is a trend in the chemical companies to manufacture chemicals which require introducing as little chemical as possible into the environment, because of public concern over chemical use. There are many chemicals now that have rates of application in ounces. If the active ingredient is listed in ounces, it is not necessary to convert that number back to pounds. In the Active and Inert Ingredients section on a label of a liquid formulation of an herbicide there is a statement about how many pounds per gallon of active ingredient may be found in the herbicide. For example, the "Banvel" label states that this product contains 4 pounds per gallon of active ingredient. If the target species on the proposal to use "Banvel" is bull thistle, and the maximum rate of application use unit is 3 pints, the maximum amount of active ingredient per acre is the amount of active ingredient contained in 3 pints of Banvel. (E.g., 4 pounds of active ingredient in a gallon is equivalent to I OXY• NWho, 4/22/2008 • • • �w�n Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC pound in a quart and 0.5 pound in a pint.) Therefore, the maximum rate of application pounds of active ingredient per acre is 1.5 pounds for control of bull thistle. Labels offormulationsformulations of herbicides do not always include a statement about how many pounds of active ingredient per pound is found in the herbicide. The "Spike 20P" label does state that the product contains 0.2 pounds of active ingredient per pound, but the "Escort" label simply states that by weight, the active ingredient makes up 60% of the product. If you propose to use 0,5 ounce per acre, as the "Escort" label states is the maximum for control of common mullein, the maximum amount of active ingredient that may be applied per acre is 0.3 ounce (0.5 x 60% 0.3). Intended Rate of Application Herbicide labels state a range of amounts including the maximum amount of material that may be applied. Often, depending on soil type, organic matter, amount of soil moisture, air temperature, and humidity at the time of application, etc., it is more cost-effective and environmentally sound to use less than that maximum amount of herbicide to control the pest. In this section, state the amount of herbicide you actually apply per acre. End of the Year reports require reporting the amount of active ingredient that has been applied per acre. You may also want to do that ratio calculation here, to simplj the reporting process later. Application Dates The dates do not have to be specific. Can be a range of months when herbicide will be applied. Number of Applications List specific number of times herbicide will be applied in a year. Be sure not to exceed maximum rate of application. II. Pest (List specific target pest(s) and reason for application.) When deciding which herbicide to use it is critical to identify the target pest(s) so that the most useful and cost- effective application may be chosen. If target pest(s) are not identified, the proposal will not be approved by the state pesticide coordinator. Herbicides are rigorously tested and their labels list a number of species that the product is known to control. If the specific target pest(s) are not listed on the label, attach documentation from a recent scientific source stating that the product proposed is known to control the specific target species. For example, if you desire to control the target species of showy milkweed with Banvel, you will note that the Banvel label lists several milkweeds, but not showy milkweed. The 1993-94 Montana, Utah, Wyoming Weed Control Handbook does list dicamba or Banvel with four pounds of active ingredient per gallon as a known treatment for showy milkweed. Documentation must be attached for species not listed on the label, for approval of the proposal by the State Pesticide Coordinator. Documentation must also be supplied for mixtures, if the mixture is not listed on the label as one that controls the specific target pest(s). The Western Society of Weed Science has published a book called Weeds of the West by Tom D. Whitson, Larry C. Burrill, Steven A. Dewey, David W. Cudney, B.E. Nelson, Richard D. Lee and Robert Parker which lists standardized common plant names. Chemical companies are also using the standardized names more often now when printing labels. Use the standardized common names of plant pest species or their scientific names in this section of the PUP. List the specific reason for this pesticide application. 111. Major Desired Plant Species Present List the species which define the natural plant community at the site where the chemical is to be applied. Specific species do not need to be listed. Just mention the dominant life forms that are present such as native shrubs, grasses, forbs, etc. If the natural plant community is not what the site is being managed for, also list the key management species, or state that you are managing for bare ground. IV. Treatment Site Describe the land uses in the treatment area, the stage of growth of the target pest species, the slope and soil type and other factors that relate to specific information found on the chemical label. Estimated Acres OXY -N MP 4/2212008 Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Estimate the number of acres to be treated chemically at each specific site. (This will be included on an attached sheet when one PUP covers more than one site.) The size of the acreage to be treated determines who the final authorizing official will be. Estimate on the high end so treated acres are not exceeded over the course of three years. This section of the PUP must be completed for approval by the State Pesticide Coordinator. V. Sensitive Aspects and Precautions Describe any sensitive areas, including wetlands and riparian areas, endangered, threatened, candidate and sensitive species habitat, and distance to the treatment site. List measures to be taken to avoid impact to any sensitive areas. (Contact the BLM Glenwood Springs Energy Office Ecologist to determine presence of special status species.) VL Nontarget Vegetation Since chemicals are not selective at a species level, there will be some loss of species that are considered desirable. Describe the associated and cumulative impacts and mitigations associated with the loss of non target vegetation on the site where this chemical application is occurring. VII. Integrated Pest Management The ROD and the Vegetation Treatment on BLM Lands in 13 Western States says that we want to take an integrated vegetation management approach. The techniques proposed for use in an integrated management program include:. Preventive actions, biological control, mechanical control such as prescribed burning, cultural control, such as changing grazing time, numbers, or type of grazing animal, manual practices, such as hand pulling or mowing, chemical control, and restoration practices. Vegetation management priorities (page 2 ROD): preventive, nonchemical, combination of preventative, nonchemical and chemical, then sole chemical use in that order. Because of these priorities, please document what is being done besides this chemical application to manage undesirable species in the project area. Originator's Signature, Company Name, Telephone Number Person who is initiating the PUP, name of the company they work for and telephone number where that person can be reached. Certified Pesticide Applicators Signature and Applicator License Number This is the signature of the person who will oversee the pesticide application on the ground. This person must have a current state certification and fist the applicator license number here. The State Office Pesticide Coordinator will not approve a proposal if the Certified Applicators signature is missing or if it is signed by someone whose certification has expired. Resource Area Coordinator Signature This will be signed by the BLM Energy Office Ecologist. BLM Manager's Signature The Glenwood Springs Field Office Manager must sign this proposal. The State Pesticide Coordinator will not approve any proposal that does not have a manager's signature. Colorado State PUP Coordinator's Signature This is the person in the CO State Office given responsibility to authorize and sign PUP's. Acting DSD of Lands and Renewable Resources Signature The Deputy State Director of Lands and Renewable Resources located in the CO State Office must sign and approve the PUP. (BLM, 2007) oxY -NWMP 4/22/2008 \Uash Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Appendix F Noxious Weed Survey Form nxv NW1.IP 4/22/2008 • Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Noxious Weed Survey Form (April 14, 2008) FIELD DATA --- Date / 1 Surveyor(s): Location - Proximity & Distance to Nearest Named Wellpad, Road, or Facility: UTM Zone 12 (NAD 83): Name of Waypoint or Polygon: Photos Taken (Yes/No)? Photo Number(s): Noxious Weed(s) Encountered: Size of Infestation(s): Status (F, S, P): Flowering, Seed, Pod Drawing of Infestation / Additional. Comments: OFFICE FOLLOW-UP Reported Infestation to (Name & Date): Suggested Treatment Method: Previously Treated (Yes / No)? Method: Plan Updated (Date): OXY -NWMP 4/22/2008 • 1 • -.ANTalsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Appendix G Noxious Weed Inventory Table ox .\Watr 4/22/2008 WATalsh Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Well sad, Road, Facilit Weed S•ecies Infestation ID Ma. ID Size of Infestation Date Recorded The Valle To be populated as surveys are conducted in 2008. See Appendix A for noxious weed inventory data from 2006 To be populated as surveys are conducted in 2008. See Appendix A for noxious weed inventory data from 2006 Loan Wash To be populated as surveys are conducted in 2008. See Appendix A for noxious weed inventory data from 2006 OXY- %WMP 4/221'2008 Wa1s� Environmental Scientists and Engineers, LLC Appendix H BLM Seed Mix (BLM, 2007) OXY-N'.l'}W 4/22/2008 Table 1-1. Low -Elevation Salt -Desert Scrub/Basin Big Sagebrush ao Scientific Names 4i LG 0 E 0 U ..0 cep ng (5% Each, 10% Total) Plant Both of the Fo crl v 1 -"L": C0i Fourwing Saltbusl 0 U 0 V) 016 0 r czz 0 a 0 ti0.4 Alkali Sacaton Strearnbank Wheatgrass 0 0 0 U 0 U 0 0 C 0 U 0 0 U 0 U D U s 0 rs C 0 ,m [Agropyron] s 0 V 0 fi 0 0 0 0 Con s} 0 0 Poa sandher Sandberg Bluegrass *Based on 45 pr n 0 is 4t v a6 p+ V Plant Both of the Following (15% Each, 30% Total) Indian Ricegrass Achnatherum [Oryzopsis] hymenoides Paloma, Rimrock Cool Bunch 2.8 Secar, P-7 Bluebunch Wheatgrass P.seudoroegneria spicata, Agropyron spicatum Anatane, G01dar j Cool Bunch 2.8 and Two of the Following (30% Total) +,l do ('J .7 M6 and Two of the Following (40% Total) _ s0 .� O N f i E 0 1 Sod -forming Bunch Sod -forming Bunch Bunch Bunch Scientific Names Variety Season 0 0 U 0 O 0 100D O 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 Critana, Schwendimar Revenue, Pryor Rosana, Walsh Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Agropyron dasystachyum Elymus trachvcaulus, Agropvron trachvcaulum Pascopyrum (Agropyron] smithii CS s 0 L. V Z a' a Poa sandbergii, Poa secunda Elymus elymoides ssp. elymoides, Sitanion hystrix Common Name Thickspike Wheatgrass Slender Wheatgrass Western Wheatgrass Muttongrass 1 Sandberg Bluegrass Bottlebrush Squirreltail • Mixed Mountain Shrubland, Including Oakbrush (elevation) -to - E L CS ea Ci Scientific Names 0 0 0 O G CJ Plant Both of the Following (20% Each, 40% Total) L L 0 h k az 3-3h Bluebunch Wheatgrass r— N M 0 0 U G 0 ,LD O d 0 O 0 U O O U • tlebrush Squirre Slender Wheatgrass esters Wheatgrass U G 0 0 G fECI CC O O U O O U G 0 -0 G 0 U C,) 1i 4., tri H 0 r r.$) G 0 0 U 0 0 .i U G 0 0 0 0 O O 0 O O 0 O 0 U and One of the Following (10% Total) 0 0 U Achnatherum [Stipa] le Achnatherum [Stipa] nelsonii, Stipa columbiana Nassella [Stipa] viridula Letterman Needlegrass Columbia Needlegrass Green Needlegrass 0 0 0 ni .0 U 0 0 O G U 0 0 0 Achnatherum [Oryzopsis] hymenoides Koeleria macrantha, K. crislata Indian Ricegrass 0 0 *Based on 60 • • adows (> 9,000 feet Table 1-4. Spruce -Fir Forest, Including Mount E izn f3 trl Scientific Na 00 V'9 U Li PI Ca O O 0 CJ wing (20% Each, 40% Total) Plant Both of the Fo Bromopsis [Bromus] marginatus caritas, Agropyron rrc VI CC tw1 CCJ 0 U 0 UIU O G U 0 I00 0 G U wing (20% Each, 60% Total) nd Three of Achnatherum [Stipa] lettermanii t/} CG 'CJ C. j [.i V] estuca idahoen Poa nervosa errnan Need Thickspike Wheatgrass Idaho Fescue Wheeler Bluegrass 11 -seeded. Double this rate (120 PLS per square foot) if broadcast or hydroseeded. *Based on 60 p r--- 7 7 and Engineers, LLC Environmental Se Z si o F � bs7 E0 U 0 E■ Z W � ti c CW.•n H g H LA W a L Mycn w c 9 CAP CJ7 � • C z W w W 0 Cr YS ri F-' Leu .0 Plant One of the Following Wheat x Tall Wheatgrass Triticum aestivum x Elytrigia elongata Regreen** Cool Annual 1© and Both of the Following Strearnbank Wheatgrass Elvmus lanceolatus ssp. psammophilus, Solar Coal Sod Agropyron riparium forming. Cool Annual tr o0 Season 0 0 C r.7 QuickGuard** Rosana, Walsh Scientific Names Trrticum aestivum x Secale cereale Pascopyrum [AgropyronJ smithii Common Name Wheat x Cereal Rye rWestern Wheatgrass 0 0 sa a 0 Lz. V .0 0. CG i. Lees •0 .0 0 Cl4 r +14R • E ees Fb E 0' 42) Scientific Names z 0 0 E 0 0 0 U 0 0 U cn 0 v 0 Elytrigia elonga d U ti CS col fi tr On nt One of the Fol 0. cs Wheat x Tall W Tri 0 0 0 0 0 0 an 0 0 Lz+ and Both of th 0 0 0 E Elymus trachycaulus, Agropyro 0 trol s4 6i .0 c� ai 0 Lr 0 0. 1-1 Cci 0 .0 .0Q E 0 y • oxY Project: OXY Conn Creek II Compressor Station Submittal Item Number: 12- Supplementary Regulations 5.03.08 (5) Please find below and attached requirements met as per the Garfield County Supplemental Regulations. 5.03.08 (5)A. Storage of flammable or explosive solids or gases. A phone message and email was sent October 6, 2008 to Nick Marks of the Debeque Fire Protection District. The items noted below have been presented to Chief Marks regarding fire protection issues at the Conn Creek II Compressor Station. Compressor Station Safety Systems and Design Station spacing is designed as to minimize impact of fire and allow unobstructed access for outside fire fighting equipment (i.e. trucks). Safety systems include gas and fire detection, which either shuts down or isolates specific equipment and/or the station when activated. • Fire extinguishers are located throughout the station, so plant personnel can fight incipient stage • fires. Fire Training Fire extinguisher training is provided to station employees on an annual basis. Emergency Response Plan The current emergency response plan (ERP) will be updated to include the compressor station expansion and will be reviewed with the Debeque Fire Protection District. A copy is also available via the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). Perimeter access for the Debeque Fire Protection District will be provided. Fire Department Walk -Through A walk-through will be scheduled with the Debeque Fire Protection District when requested. Page 1 of 3 OXY 11160.1 5.03.08 (5)13. Enclosures As described in the Wildlife Impact submittal 11.1.C. OXY USA WTP LP will install a 4' tall 3 -strand fence at the perimeter of the station to keep livestock and wildlife out of the facility. No further berming or plantings have been planned for the site. 5.03.08 (5)C. Materials or wastes transferred off -property. Vapor, dust, smoke, noise, glare and vibration have been addressed in 11.1.B in the application. The Construction storm water management plan and the Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plan have been addressed in 11.1.A in the application. As a part of the OXY USA WTP LP safety regulations, notation is made to securing all loose materials and trash so that these items are not lifted by strong winds and subsequently provide a safety hazard or trash concerns off-site. This issue will be noted to all contractors and employees on-site. Any trash items inadvertently allowed to blow off-site will be picked -up by station employees. 5.03.08 (5)D. Storage of heavy equipment With the exception of construction of the compressor station, no equipment will be kept on-site on a permanent. 5.03.08 (5)E. Storage Area Sizing- Not applicable. 5.03.08 (5)F. Lighting. As per Garfield County Regulations and COGCC rule 803, site lighting shall be pointed downward and inward to the property center and shaded to prevent direct reflection on adjacent property. This regulation will be followed on all site lighting. This has been implemented to reduce light pollution and energy usage. Please find a copy of the COGCC Rule 803 attached. Page 2 of 3 oxY 5.03.08 (6) Water Pollution Please see submittals in 11.1.A.1 SWMP and 11.1.A.2 SPCC. Please note that the above and attached information presented discusses a carefully implemented plan for mitigation of impacts caused by the Conn Creek II Compressor Station. These mitigation strategies are currently in-place in the existing Conn Creek Compressor Station and will be extended to the Conn Creek 1I Compressor Station. Page 3 of 3