HomeMy WebLinkAbout1.09 Revegetation Plan
APPENDIX 9-102.L
REVEGETATION PLAN
THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK FOR TWO-SIDED DUPLICATION.
792 Buckhorn Dr.
Rifle, CO 81650
RECLAMATION PLAN
U.S. OPERATIONS
PICEANCE BASIN
May, 2013-Rev: 4(February 2016)
792 Buckhorn Dr.
Rifle, CO 81650
Reclamation Plan
U.S. Operations
Piceance Basin
May 2013 –Rev: 4
PREPARED BY:
HRL COMPLIANCE SOLUTIONS, INC.
2385 F ½ Road
Grand Junction, CO 81505
970.243.3271
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 1
2.0 Site Characteristics ..................................................................................................... 3
3.0 Reclamation ................................................................................................................. 5
3.1 Temporary Reclamation .................................................................................................................. 5
3.1.1 Stage One (Removal and Disposal) ....................................................................................... 5
3.1.2 Stage Two(Planting/Timing) ................................................................................................. 6
3.2 Interim Reclamation ........................................................................................................................ 6
3.2.1 Stage One (Removal and Disposal) ....................................................................................... 6
3.2.2 Stage Two (Substrate Preparation) ....................................................................................... 7
3.2.3 Stage Three (Planting/Timing) .............................................................................................. 7
3.3 Final Reclamation ............................................................................................................................ 7
3.3.1 Stage One (Removal and Disposal) ....................................................................................... 7
3.3.2 Stage Two (Substrate Preparation) ....................................................................................... 8
3.3.3 Stage Three (Planting/Timing) .............................................................................................. 8
4.0 Stormwater Mitigation ............................................................................................. 10
4.1 Noxious Weeds .............................................................................................................................. 10
4.2 Reclamation Monitoring ................................................................................................................ 10
5.0 Inspections ................................................................................................................. 11
6.0 Data Records Management ...................................................................................... 12
7.0 Training Requirements ............................................................................................ 13
8.0 References .................................................................................................................. 14
APPENDICES
A MAP OF LOCATION(S)
B APPROVED SEED MIXES
C SITE SPECIFICS
C1 Battlement Mesa
C2 North Gravel Trend/Roan
C3 Gravel Trend
C4 Castle Springs/Wolf Creek
D Ursa’s Internal Guidance Flow Charts
TABLE 1 Ideal Planting Times
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1.0 Introduction
This Reclamation Plan (Plan) describes procedures necessary for reclamation of Ursa
Operating Company LLC’s (Ursa) field wide resources located in Garfield County, Pitkin
County, and Mesa County, Colorado. Ursa began operating in the Rifle/Silt area on April
1, 2013. The resources include Battlement Mesa field, North Gravel Trend field, Gravel
Trend field, and Castle Springs field. The Roan resources are included in the North
Gravel Trend field and the Wolf Creek resource is included in the Castle Springs field.
Fields cover most of Township 7 South Ranges 91 and 95 West, Township 8 South
Range 90 West, Township 5 South Ranges 91-93 West, and Township 6 South Ranges
90-93 West.
This Plan will cover re-contouring, reseeding, noxious weed treatment, stormwater
mitigation and monitoring of the well pads, Rights of Way (ROWs), and other
infrastructures required for natural gas operation. This plan is twofold: interim
reclamation of a site once a site has been constructed and final reclamation of the site
when the pad/ROW is no longer in operation and has been plugged and abandoned
(P&A).
The reclamation of disturbed land is a critical component when creating a system where
ecological functions and values are restored once the ground disturbance activities have
ceased. Rehabilitation of the disturbed area assists the natural ecological processes to
move towards a self-promoting condition. Once a self-supporting environment has been
established, the natural processes of the location can 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
treatments are applied initially to ensure the best environment possible for rehabilitation
treatments to succeed.
Bonding is required for oil and gas lease operations (43 CFR 3104, 36 CFR 228 E). The
bond will cover the activities the operator performs including, but not limited to:
plugging leasehold wells, surface reclamation, and cleanup of abandoned operations.
The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) 1000 Series
Reclamation Regulations declare that “all disturbed areas affected by drilling or
subsequent operations, except areas reasonably needed for production operations or for
subsequent drilling operations to be commenced within 12 months, shall be reclaimed as
early and as nearly practical to their original conditions”. This plan is designed to provide
guidance concerning reclamation activities for Ursa land managers once the site of
concern is no longer utilized for operations.
The area to be reclaimed shall be kept as weed free as practicable of all undesirable
noxious weed species. Weed control measures shall be conducted in compliance with the
Colorado Noxious Weed Act (C.R.S. 35-5.5-101.et.seq) (Please refer to Ursa’s Noxious
Weed Management Plan for details). Stormwater mitigation will be in compliance with
the Colorado Department of Health and Environment (CDPHE) Water Quality Division
General Permit Series COR-030000 and COGCC 1002.f regulations.
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Procedures identified in this plan apply to all Ursa Fields. All COGCC, CDPHE and
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) procedures (site specific Conditions Of Approval or
COAs) will be followed. Personnel working on this project should be familiar with the
reclamation plan and its contents prior to preliminary construction activities.
Ursa obtains the sole discretion on implementing practices outlined in this plan and
ability to change, modify, or alter reclamation practices to accommodate operations and
ensure environmental protection.
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2.0 Site Characteristics
Gravel Trend
The Gravel Trend natural gas wells and associated infrastructure are located within
Township 7 South, Range 95 West, of the 6th P.M. Rifle, Silt, and New Castle, are
located along the boundaries of the Gravel Trend field.
The Gravel Trend Field has clayey, loamy soils with moderately rapid permeability and
an erosion hazard of moderate to severe. Most soils located within the field are deep well
drained soils usually found within 5,000 to 7,500 feet in elevation. Typical rainfall per
year ranges from 12-18 inches and has a frost free period of 120-125 days. The field
mostly encompasses north facing aspects with minor vegetation. For a more information
on the different soil types found within the Gravel Trend Field, please refer to Appendix
C.
North Gravel Trend
The North Gravel Trend natural gas wells and associated infrastructure are be located
within Townships 4, 5, and 6 South, Ranges 91, 92, 93, and 94 West, of the 6th P.M.
Rifle, Silt, and New Castle, are located along the boundaries of the North Gravel Trend
field.
This field consists of many different soil types which include clayey, loamy soils with
moderate to moderately rapid permeability. Erosion hazard ranges from moderate to
severe and are found within 5,000 to 7,000 feet in elevation. Annual typical rainfall can
range from 12-14 inches and has a frost free period of 120-125 days. The field mostly
encompasses south facing slopes aspects with minor vegetation. For more information on
the specific soil types found within the North Gravel Trend Field, please refer to
Appendix C.
Castle Springs
The Castle Springs natural gas wells and associated infrastructure are located within
Townships 7, 8, and 9 South, Ranges 90 and 91 West, of the 6th P.M. Rifle, Silt, and
New Castle, are located near the boundaries of the Castle Springs field.
The Castle Springs Field consists of many different soil types which include, loamy soils
with rock outcrops with moderate permeability. Most soils are located within the field are
found on gently sloping to rolling ridges and mountainsides. Erosion hazard ranges from
moderate to severe and are found within 6,500 to 9,500 feet in elevation. Annual typical
rainfall can range from 14-18 inches and has a frost free period of 70 to 105 days. The
field mostly encompasses north facing slopes aspects with dense vegetation cover. For
more information on the specific soil types found within the North Gravel Trend Field,
please refer to Appendix C.
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Battlement Mesa
Parachute, Battlement Mesa, and Rulison, are located in or near the Battlement Mesa
field, (Township 7South, Range95 West).
*Glenwood Springs is located approximately 27 miles to the east
The resources range in elevation from 5,000- 9,500 feet and receive between 10-18
inches of precipitation per year. The frost free period ranges from 75 to 125 days,
creating a growing season of approximately two and a half to four months. Each location
has a site specific plan with details of soils, seed mix, and phase. Refer to Appendix C.
COAs will be included in Appendix C for all sites located on federal lands.
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3.0 Reclamation
This plan covers: temporary reclamation of a site once the site has been constructed and
is in production, interim reclamation of site when completions are no longer necessary
and the pad has been brought down to only the daily operational use, and final
reclamation when a pad is no longer in operation and the well(s) have been plugged and
abandoned (P & A). All phases of reclamation will be in compliance with CDPHE,
COGCC, and BLM regulations. Pipeline ROWs will have only a temporary and final
phase.
Construction and reclamation activities will be in accordance with the individual county
noxious weed management plan (please refer to the Ursa Noxious Weed Plan). Dust
suppression measures are required under the county grading permits and Federal land,
and will be implemented as applicable. Each stage will be applied to the reclamation of
the locations undergoing reclamation. Interim reclamation will be completed as stated in
the Field Wide Stormwater Management Plan(s).
All equipment used on reclamation projects will be cleaned and inspected prior to
entering location to ensure noxious weed seeds are not being transported onto the site.
3.1 Temporary Reclamation
A site has been placed into the temporary reclamation phase, once the site has been
constructed and is in production.
Temporary Reclamation:
• Pads – The areas not used for everyday operations will be broadcast seeded. All
temporary and permanent stormwater controls will be installed and maintained.
Seeding rate and mix will be determined by land owner. Certified weed free straw
may be utilized at 2 tons per acre and crimped into place.
• Pipelines –ROW will be monitored and permanent and temporary stormwater
best management practices (BMPs) will be installed to control erosion and
sedimentation. Once the trench has been backfilled and final grade has been
completed, the ROW will be drill seeded.
• Roads – The access roads to a site will be properly graveled and stabilized. The
cut and fill slopes of the access roads will be seeded and mulched as applicable to
the individual site.
3.1.1 Stage One (Removal and Disposal)
During reclamation of any site, once the pad/ROW/access road has been constructed, all
waste associated with construction of the site will be disposed of properly. This includes
any trash left behind on location such as pipe fittings, used lumber or miscellaneous items
that have been discarded. Petroleum products if on site should be contained in secondary
containment.
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3.1.2 Stage Two(Planting/Timing)
Upon completion of pad construction, all areas not used for production will be seeded.
Seedbed preparation will consist of surface roughening. This will occur just prior to
seeding. Seed will be applied by hand broadcast. The seed mix for each reclamation
project will be an approved Seed Mix (Appendix B).
Ideally planting will occur in the fall (See Table 1.), before the first snow of the season.
Early October is optimal. If possible, planting should occur in conjunction 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 utilize the benefits of the precipitation.
Spring planting can be conducted after the frost line is gone from the soil. During all
phases of reclamation, the seed mix associated with this site will be used.
3.2 Interim Reclamation
A site enters the interim reclamation phase when the location has finished completions,
and no completion work is foreseen in the near future. At this point, the site’s footprint
will be brought down to only the daily operational use.
3.2.1 Stage One (Removal and Disposal)
During interim reclamation of any site, once the pad/ROW/access road has been
constructed, all wooden stakes used to secure wattles and straw bales, and other waste
associated with construction of the site may be disposed of properly. Temporary BMPs
used during the temporary phase of reclamation may be kept and used during interim
reclamation. Incorporation of permanent BMPs may be implemented during this phase.
Any trash left behind on location such as pipe fittings, used lumber or miscellaneous
items that have been discarded. Petroleum products if on site should be contained in
secondary containment.
Interim Reclamation:
• Pads – The initial footprint of the pad will be reduced, leaving enough room for
everyday operations to occur on site in a safe manner and will be in compliance
with COGCC 1003. All temporary stormwater controls will be removed and
permanent BMPs will be installed. Disturbed areas will be drill or broadcast
seeded as applicable to the topography of the site. Seeding rate and mix will be
determined by land owner. Certified weed free straw may be utilized at 2 tons per
acre and crimped into place.
• Pipelines – Pipelines will be seeded with the site specific seed mix per land
owner requests. As applicable, certified weed free straw will be used as mulch at
2 tons per acre, and will be crimped into place. ROW will be monitored and
permanent stormwater best management practices (BMPs) will be installed to
control erosion and sedimentation.
• Roads – The access roads to a site will be properly graveled and stabilized. The
cut and fill slopes of the access roads will be seeded and mulched as applicable to
the individual site.
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3.2.2 Stage Two (Substrate Preparation)
The condition of the soil is very important for the establishment of a healthy self-
sustaining environment. Locations where noticeable staining exists will have the
impacted soil removed or remediated, and disposed of in accordance with County and
COGCC waste management regulations (refer to Ursa waste management plan).
To alleviate soil compaction, the substrate will be cross ripped to a depth of 18 inches.
Cross ripping will take place when the soil moisture is below 35 percent 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 applied in accordance to the order it was removed (i.e.
first off, last on). This practice will ensure that the soil is applied to the appropriate
horizon from which it was taken initially. Salvaged topsoil will be distributed across the
entire disturbed area at a depth of six (6) to twelve (12) inches if possible. Ursa has
implemented a beneficial reuse program for drill cuttings within the Battlement Mesa
Field. Drill cuttings will be stored on site within containment until the cuttings have
met all criteria under COGCC’s Table 910 suite, then incorporated into the pad.
(Please see Ursa’s Waste Management Plan for details.).
3.2.3 Stage Three (Planting/Timing)
Seedbed preparation will consist of scarifying, tilling or harrowing seedbed to a depth of
three (3) to four (4) inches post ripping. This will occur just prior to seeding. Drill
seeding will be performed at a depth of 0.5 inches, seed will be covered with soil and
lightly compacted to ensure good seed to soil contact. Seed will be applied using a
rangeland seed drill with a seed release and agitation mechanism sufficient to allow seeds
of various size and density to be planted at the proper seeding depth. The seed mix for
each reclamation project will be an approved Seed Mix (Appendix B).
Ideally planting will occur in the fall (See Table 1.), before the first snow of the season.
Early October is optimal. If possible, planting should occur in conjunction 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 utilize the benefits of the precipitation.
Spring planting can be conducted after the frost line is gone from the soil. During both
phases of final reclamation, the seed mix associated with this site will be used.
3.3 Final Reclamation
Final reclamation is when a pad is no longer in operation and the well(s) have been
plugged and abandoned (P & A).
3.3.1 Stage One (Removal and Disposal)
During final reclamation of any site, all wooden stakes used to secure wattles and straw
bales, and other waste associated with construction of the site will be disposed of
properly. Temporary BMPs used during the temporary phase and interim phases will be
removed and replaced with permanent BMPs as applicable. Any trash left behind on
location such as pipe fittings, used lumber or miscellaneous items that have been
discarded. During final reclamation of the site, when the pad is no longer in operation, all
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manmade structures will be removed from the site by means of backhoe, bulldozer,
skidsteer or other appropriate heavy machinery. Structures may include, but are not
limited to: compressor engines, generators, steel structures, cement foundations and other
equipment used for the extraction of natural gas. Petroleum waste products if on site
should be contained in secondary containment and disposed of properly. Gravel, road
base and large cobbles installed on site for surface stabilization controls will be removed.
Disposal and/or reuse method of gravel will be left to the discretion of the operator.
Final Reclamation:
• Pads – Pads in final reclamation will be plugged and abandoned (P & A), all
temporary BMPs will be removed and replaced with permanent BMPs if
necessary, and the surface area will be recontoured and seeded. Drill or broadcast
seeding methods will be used at the appropriate rate and depth. Surface
roughening will be implemented to retain water and eliminate rilling.
• Pipelines – Pipelines will be considered finally stabilized upon reaching 70% pre-
disturbance vegetative cover, per the CDPHE general permit COR030000.
• Roads – All access roads in final reclamation will be graveled and considered
stable, with the sides of the roads are vegetated or stabilized. Closure of a road
will consist of recontouring to existing topography, seeding, mulching and in
some cases transplanting (using the trackhoe bucket) sagebrush and small trees on
the edge of the road.
3.3.2 Stage Two (Substrate Preparation)
In the final phase of reclamation when active operations have ceased the substrate void of
chemical presence, and gravel that was applied to the location during operations
removed, reclamation efforts will take place.
To alleviate soil compaction, the substrate will be cross ripped to a depth of 18 inches.
Cross ripping will take place when the soil moisture is below 35 percent 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 applied in accordance to the order it was removed (i.e.
first off, last on). This practice will ensure that the soil is applied to the appropriate
horizon from which it was taken initially. Salvaged topsoil will be distributed across the
entire disturbed area at a depth of six (6) to twelve (12) inches if possible. Ursa has
implemented a beneficial reuse program for drill cuttings within the Battlement Mesa
Field. Drill cuttings will be stored on site within containment until the cuttings have
met all criteria under COGCC’s Table 910 suite, and then incorporated into the pad.
(Please see Ursa’s Waste Management Plan for details.).
3.3.3 Stage Three (Planting/Timing)
In both phases of reclamation, seedbed preparation will consist of scarifying, tilling or
harrowing seedbed to a depth of three (3) to four (4) inches post ripping. This will occur
just prior to seeding. Drill seeding will be performed at a depth of 0.5 inches, seed will be
9
covered with soil and lightly compacted to ensure good seed to soil contact. Seed will be
applied using a rangeland seed drill with a seed release and agitation mechanism
sufficient to allow seeds of various size and density to be planted at the proper seeding
depth. The seed mix for each reclamation project will be an approved Seed Mix
(Appendix B).
Ideally planting will occur in the fall (See Table 1.), before the first snow of the season.
Early October is optimal. If possible, planting should occur in conjunction 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 utilize the benefits of the precipitation.
Spring planting can be conducted after the frost line is gone from the soil. During both
phases of final reclamation, the seed mix associated with this site will be used.
10
4.0 Stormwater Mitigation
To avoid erosion of topsoil and seed transport from storm events, Best Management
Practices (BMPs) will be installed where applicable on the perimeter of any location
being reclaimed. Given the location of the site, surface roughening and pocking will
reduce stormwater impact and capture and retain precipitation. This will aid in the
germination of the seed and increase seedling survival. See Ursa’s Stormwater
Management Plans (SWMPs) for a full list of BMPs and installation details.
4.1 Noxious Weeds
Undesirable species such as noxious weeds and pest weeds occur during any type of
earth-disturbing activities. Weeds will be monitored and documented. Once identified,
they will be treated, as appropriate with the proper herbicide and surfactant. Treatments
are typically conducted during the spring, summer and fall to ensure that all cycles and
species present are being treated at the appropriate times. On federal lands, a Pesticide
Use Proposal (PUP) is required by the BLM for approval for each herbicide prior to
treatment. Annual reports regarding weed management and reclamation success will be
submitted to Judy Perkins at the Colorado River Valley Field Office in compliance with
the Noxious and Invasive Weed Management Plan for Oil and Gas Operators. In
accordance with Garfield County noxious weed management, noxious species will be
treated before construction activities begin.
4.2 Reclamation Monitoring
Monitoring of the vegetative progress is vital to ensure that proper procedures were
implemented on the location. Monitoring will allow for early response to potential
problems encountered during the reclamation process. Identifying challenges to the
reclamation goals at an early stage will allow for adequate time to formulate a response to
the situation. By identifying potential complications early in the process, the future costs
associated with rehabilitation will be minimized for the operator.
If the treatments do not show the desired outcome, additional actions will be taken to
reach reclamation goals. After the source of the problem is identified, careful attention
will 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 to the operator
will be increased rehabilitation costs.
Monitoring activities will examine several parameters including: the condition of
implemented BMPs, growth state and success rate of areas seeded, presence and location
of noxious weeds, and possible sources of failure for reclamation processes. Photo
documentation is required for all the above parameters for high-quality progress tracking.
After the initial reclamation amendments are applied, and CDPHE requirements of 70
percent pre-disturbance levels have been met as well as COGCC requirements of 80
percent vegetative cover, an annual 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. Monitoring will occur until COGCC requirements of
80% desired vegetation has been reached.
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5.0 Inspections
To meet the requirements of the CDPHE General Stormwater Discharge Permit,
inspection and maintenance of erosion and sediment controls must occur during the
project. During Ursa’s stormwater inspections, reclamation efforts will be reviewed as
well.
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6.0 Data Records Management
Inspections, PUPs, and other necessary information that facilitates management and
reclamation success will be kept at the Ursa office in Rifle. The office can be found at the
address below.
Ursa Operating Company
792 Buckhorn Dr.
Rifle, CO 81650
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7.0 Training Requirements
Ursa personnel and contractors will be up to date on the newest reclamation successes to
ensure reclamation accomplishments are attained within Ursa’s gas fields. Continuing
education through seminars, symposiums, and classes will facilitate in reclamation
success.
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8.0 References
Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC). 2008. Rule 1000 series
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), variously dated, National field manual for the collection
of water-quality data: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of Water-Resources
Investigations, book 9, chaps. A1-A9, available online at:
http://pubs.water.usgs.gov/twri9A
Natural Resources Conservation Service. USDA. Web Soil Survey.
http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/ February 17, 2012.
Tripp, William P. et. al., Soil Survey of Douglas – Plateau Area Colorado, USDA, SCS,
USDI, BLM. 1982.
BLM Northwest Colorado District Outline for Surface Reclamation for Oil and Gas
Operations. http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/wrfo/oil_and_gas_wrfo.html
Appendix A
Maps
Species Scientific Name Variety Season/Form lbs/acre PLS
Western Wheatgrass Pascopyrum smithii Rosana or Arriba 5.0
Slender wheatgrass Elymus trachycaulus ssp. Trachycalulus Pryor or San Luis 2.5
RS hybrid wheatgrass Elytrigia repens X Pseudoroegneria spicata Saltlander 3.0
Pubescent wheatgrass Thinopyrum intermedium ssp.Luna 2.5
Tall wheatgrass Thinopyrum ponticum Alkar 2.0
Russina wildrye Psathyrostachys juncea Bozoisky 1.5
16.5 lbs/acre
Rate will be doubled for hand broadcast seeding
Ursa Dry Land Pasture Mix
Total lbs/acre
Appendix B
Common Name Scientific Name Variety Season/Form Lbs/acre PLS
Fourwing Saltbush Atriplex canescens VNS /Shrub 2.5
Shadscale Atriplex confertifolia VNS /Shrub 2.0
Bluebunch Wheatgrass Pseudoroegneria spicata, Agropyron spicatum Secar Cool/Bunch 4.7
Bottlebrush Squirreltail Elymus elymoides, Sitanion hystrix
State Bridge, Little
Sahara, VNS Cool/Bunch 3.4
Thickspike Wheatgrass
Elymuslanceolatus ssp. Lanceolatus, Agropyron
dasystachyum
Critana, Bannock,
Schwendimar Cool/Sod-Forming 4.2
Indian Ricegrass Achnatherum [Oryzopsis] hymenoides
White River, Paloma,
Rimrock Cool/Bunch 3.7
Sandberg Bluegrass Poa sandbergii, Poa secunda UP Colorado, VNS Cool/Bunch 0.6
Alkali Sacaton Sporobolus airoides VNS Warm/bunch 0.2
Inland Saltgrass Distichlis spicata VNS (western US)Warm/sod-forming 0.5
Salina Wildrye Leymus salinus VNS Cool/Bunch 1
Galleta Pleuraphis [Hilaria] jamesii Viva florets Warm/bunch/sod 1.6
Needleandthread Grass Hesperostipa [Stipa] comata VNS Cool/Bunch 2.4
Sand Dropseed Sporobolus cryptandrus Up Dolores, VNS Warm/Bunch 0.1
Purple Three-awn Aristida purpurea
VNS (not parishii or
perplexa )Warm/Bunch 0.8
Annual Sunflower (forb)Helianthus annuus
Gardner's Saltbush (shrub)Atriplex gardneri
Rocky Mountain Beeplant (forb)Cleome serrulata
The menu-based mixes meet the minimum reclamation requirements.
Low-Elevation Salt-Desert Shrub/Basin Big Sagebrush
BLM MENU-BASED SEED MIXES BY HABITAT TYPE FOR USE IN INTERIM AND FINAL RECLAMATION (2014)
Plant both of the Following (5% Each, 10% Total)
Two of the Following (25% Each, 50% Total)
One of the Following (20% Total)
One of the Following (10% Total)
One of the Following (10% Total)
OPTIONAL: Any combination from the following species may be substituted for up to 10% of the above grasses (up to 5% /grass species)
Scarlet Globemallow (forb)
Sticky-flowered Rabbitbrush (shrub)
Winterfat (shrub)
*Based on 60 pure live seeds (PLS) per square foot, drill-seeded. Doubhle this rate (120 PLS per square foot) if broadcast or hydroseeded
Common Name Scientific Name Variety Season/Form Lbs/acre PLS
Bluebunch Wheatgrass Pseudoroegneria spicata, Agropyron spicatum
Secar, P-7, Anatone,
Goldar Cool/Bunch 2.8
Bottlebrush Squrreltail Elymus elymoides, Sitanion hystrix State Bridge, VNS Cool/Bunch 2.0
Slender Wheatgrass Elymus trachycaulus, Agropyron trachycaulum Revenue, Pryor Cool/Bunch 3.3
Thickspike Wheatgrass
Elymus lanceolatus ssp. Lanceolatus, Agropyron
dasystachyum
Critana, Bannock,
Schwendimar Cool/Sod-Forming 3.4
Western Wheatgrass Pascopyrum [Agropyron] smithii UP Unnamed, Rosana Cool/Sod-Forming 4.8
Arizona Fescue Festuca arizonica Redondo Cool/Bunch 0.5
Galleta Pleuraphis [Hilaria] jamesii Viva florets Warm/Bunch/Sod 1.7
Great Basin Wildrye Leymus [Elymus] cinereus UP Cochetopa Cool/Bunch 2.0
Indian Ricegrass Achnatherum [Oryzopsis] hymenoides White River, Paloma Cool/Bunch 1.9
Muttongrass Poa fendleriana UP Ruin Canyon, VNS Cool/Bunch 0.3
Needleandthread Grass Hesperostipa [Stipa] comata VNS Cool/Bunch 2.4
Purple (Red) Three-awn Aristida purpurea
VNS (not parishii or
perplexa )Warm/Bunch 0.8
Sand Dropseed Sporobolus cryptandrus UP Dolores, VNS Warm/Bunch 0.1
Sandberg Bluegrass Poa sandbergii, Poa secunda UP Colorado, VNS Cool/Bunch 0.3
Annual Suflower Hairy Golden-aster
Arrowleaf Balsamroot Lobeleaf Groundsel
Dusty Beardtongue Mountain Bee-Balm
Fernleaf Biscuitroot Mule-ears
Fourwing Saltbrush Patterson's Milkvetch
Rocky Mountain Beeplant Utah Sweetvetch
Rocky Mountain Penstemon Western Aster
Scarlet Gilia Western Yarrow
Scarlet Globemallow White Sage
Sticky-flowered Rabbitbrush Winterfat
Sulpher Flower Varileaf Phacelia
Pinyon-Juniper Woodland/Mountain/Wyoming Big Sagebrush Shrubland Seed Mix (BLM)
Both of the following (15% each, 30% Total)
Two of the Following (20% each, 40% Total)
Three of the Following (10% each, 30% Total)
OPTIONAL: Combination from the follwing species may be subsitituted for up to 10% of the grasses (5% per grass species)
Based on 60 PLS per square foot, drill-seeded. Double rate (120 PLS per square foot) for broadcast or hydroseed.
Common Name Scientific Name Variety Season/Form Lbs/acre PLS
Bluebunch Wheatgrass Pseudoroegneria spicata, Agropyron spicatum Secar, P-7, Anatone Cool/Bunch 3.7
Bottlebrush Squirreltail Elymus elymoides, Sitanion hystrix State Bridge, VNS Cool/Bunch 2.7
Slender Wheatgrass Elymus trachycaulus, Agropyron trachycaulum San Luis Cool/Bunch 2.5
Thickspike Wheatgrass
Elymus lanceolatus ssp. Lanceolatus, Agropyron
dasystachyum
Critana, Bannock,
Schwendimar Cool/Sod-forming 2.5
Western Wheatgrass Pascopyrum [Agropyron] smithii UP Unnamed, Rosana Cool/Sod-forming 3.6
Big Bluegrass Poa ampla Sherman Cool/Bunch 0.3
Canby Bluegrass Poa canbyi, P. secunda Canbar Cool/Bunch 0.3
Muttongrass Poa fendleriana UP Ruin Canyon, VNS Cool/Bunch 0.3
Columbia Needlegrass Achnatherum [Stipa] nelsonii, Stipa Columbiana VNS Cool/Bunch 1.7
Green Needlegrass Nassella [Stipa] viridula Lodorm, Cucharas Cool/Bunch 1.4
Letterman Needlegrass Achnatherum [Stipa] lettermanii VNS Cool/Bunch 1.7
Great Basin Wildrye Leymus [Elymus] cinereus UP Cochetopa Cool/Bunch 2.0
Indian Ricegrass Achnatherum [Oryzopsis] hymenoides Nezpar/Paloma/Rimrock Cool/Bunch 1.9
Junegrass Koeleria macrantha, K. cristata UP Sims Mesa NAO Cool/Bunch 0.1
Arrowleaf Balsamroot (forb)Silverleaf Phacelia (forb)
Dusty Penstemon (forb)Silvery Lupine (forb)
Lobeleaf Groundsel (shrub)Skinkbrush, Threeleaf Sumac (shrub)
Mountain Bee-balm (forb)Sulphur Flower (forb)
Mountain Snowberry (shrub)Utah Serviceberry (shrub)
Mule-ears (forb)Utah Sweetvetch (forb)
Organge sneezeweed (forb)Western Aster (forb)
Rocky Mountain Penstemon (forb)White Locoweed (forb)
Scarlet Gilia (forb)Wood's Rose (shrub)
Showy Goldeneye (forb)Yarrow (forb)
Based on 60 PLS per square foot, drill seeded. Double rater for broadcast and hydroseeding.
OPTIONAL: Any combination from the following species may be substituted for up to 10% of grasses above
Mixed Mountain Shrubland, Including Oakbrush Seed Mix (BLM)
One of the Following (10% Total)
Both of the Following (20% each, 40% Total)
Two of the Following (15% each, 30% Total)
One of the Following (10% Total)
One of the Following (10% Total)
Common Name Scientific Name Variety Season/Form Lbs/acre PLS
Mountain Brome Bromopsis [Bromus] marginatus
UP Cold Springs,
Garnet Bromar Cool/Bunch 5.8
Slender Wheatgrass Elymus trachycaulus, Agropyron trachycaulum San Luis Cool/Bunch 3.3
Blue Wildrye Elymus glaucus WRNF source, VNS Cool/Bunch 3.6
Idaho Fescue Festuca idahoensis Joseph, Nezpurs Cool/Bunch 0.9
Letterman Needlegrass Achnatherum [Stipa] lettermanii VNS Cool/Bunch 2.6
Big Bluegrass Poa amla Sherman Cool/Bunch 0.3
Nodding Brome Bromus anomalous VNS Cool/Bunch 1.8
Rough Bentgrass Agrostis scabra VNS Cool/Bunch 0.1
Thickspike Wheatgrass
Elymus lanceolatus ssp. Lanceolatus, Agropyron
Dasystachyum
Critana, Bannock,
Schwendimar Cool/Sod-forming 1.7
Wheeler Bluegrass Poa nervosa VNS Cool/Sod-forming 0.3
Aspen Sunflower (forb)Orange Sneezeweed (forb)
Fireweed (forb)Red Elderberry (shrub)
Golden Banner (forb)Richardson's Geranium (forb)
Heartleaft Arnica (forb)Showy Daisy (forb)
Mountain Gooseberry or Gooseberry
Currant (Shrubs)Showy Goldeneye (forb)
Mountain Snowberry (shrub)Western Coneflower (forb)
Based on 60 PLS per square foot, drill-seeded. Double rates for broadcast and hydroseeding.
Both of the Following (20% each, 40% Total)
Two of the Following (15% each, 30 Total)
Three of the Following (10% each, 30% Total)
OPTIONAL: Any combination from the following species may be substituted for up to 10% of the above grasses
Spruce-Fur/Mountain Meadow Seed Mix (BLM)
Appendix C1
Battlement Mesa
C.1.1 Site Location
Battlement Mesa starts in Township 7 South Range 96 West along the west boundary of sections
23 and 26 to the east boundary of Township 7 South Range 95 West and from Interstate 70 south
to the south boundary of sections 25-30 in Township 7 South Range 95 West and sections 25-26
in Township 7 South Range 96 West.
C.1.2 Soil Characteristics
According to the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), the project area of Battlement
Mesa consists of the following soils:
•Arvada loam, (6-20%): This deep, well drained, sloping soil is on fans and high
terraces. Elevation ranges from 5,100 to 6,200 feet. Average annual precipitation is 12
inches. Average annual air temperature is about 48 degrees F and the average frost free
period is 120 days. Permeability is very slow and available water capacity is high. The
effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is moderately rapid and the hazard of
water erosion is severe.
•Bucklon-Inchau loams, (25-50%): These moderately sloping to very steep soils are on
ridges and mountainsides. Elevation ranges from 7,000 to 9,500 feet. The average annual
precipitation is about 18 inches, the average annual air temperature is about 40 degrees F,
and the average frost-free period is less than 75 days. The Bucklon soil is shallow and
well drained. Permeability of the Bucklon soil is slow and available water capacity is
very low. The effective rooting depth is 10 to 20 inches. Runoff is medium and the
hazard of water erosion is severe. The Inchau soil is moderately deep and well drained.
Permeability of the Inchau soil is moderate and available water capacity is moderate. The
effective rooting depth is 20 to 40 inches. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water
erosion is severe.
•Ildefonso stony loam, (6-25%): This deep, well drained, moderately sloping to hilly soil
is on mesas, benches, and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 6,500 feet. The
average annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average annual air temperature is
about 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 125 days. Permeability is
moderately rapid and available water capacity is low. The effective rooting depth is 60
inches or more. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is moderate.
•Idefonso stony loam, (25-45%): This deep, well drained, hilly to steep soil is on mesa
breaks, sides of valleys, and alluvial fans. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 6,500 feet. The
average annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average annual air temperature is
about 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 125 days. Permeability is
moderately rapid and available water capacity is low. The effective rooting depth is 60
inches or more. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is moderate.
•Morval loam, (3-12%): This deep, well drained, gently sloping to rolling soil is on
mesas and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 6,500 to 8,000 feet. The average
annual precipitation is about 15 inches, the average annual air temperature is about 44
degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 100 days. Permeability is moderate and
available water capacity is moderate. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more.
Runoff is slow and the hazard of water erosion is slight.
•Morval-Tridell complex, (6-25%): These moderately sloping to hilly soils are on
alluvial fans and sides of mesas. Elevation ranges from 6,500 to 8,000 feet. The average
annual precipitation is about 15 inches, the average annual air temperature is about 44
degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 100 days. The Morval soil is deep and well
drained. Permeability of the Morval soil is moderate and available water capacity is
moderate. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is slow and the hazard
of water erosion is slight. The Tridell soil is deep and well drained. Permeability of the
Tridell soil is moderately rapid and available water capacity is low. The effective rooting
depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is
moderate.
•Nihill channery loam, (1-6%): This deep, well drained, nearly level to gently sloping
soil is on alluvial fans and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 6,500 feet.
The average annual precipitation is about 13 inches, the average annual air temperature is
about 48 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 125 days. Permeability is
moderately rapid and available water capacity is low. The effective rooting depth is 60
inches or more. Runoff is slow and the hazard of water erosion is moderate.
•Potts loam, (3-6%): This deep, well drained, moderately sloping soil is on mesas,
benches, and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The average
annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average annual air temperature is about 46
degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 120 days. Permeability is moderate and
available water capacity is high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff
is slow and the hazard of water erosion is moderate.
•Potts loam, (6-12%): This deep, well drained, moderately sloping to rolling soil is on
mesas, benches, and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The
average annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average annual air temperature is
about 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 120 days. Permeability is
moderate and available water capacity is high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or
more. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is severe.
•Potts-Ildefonso complex, (12-25%): These strongly sloping to hilly soils are on mesas,
alluvial fans, and sides of valleys. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 6,500 feet. The average
annual precipitation is about 14 inches, the average annual air temperature is about 46
degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 120 days. The Potts soil is deep and well
drained. Permeability of the Potts soil is moderate and available water capacity is high.
The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Runoff is medium and the hazard of
water erosion is moderate. The Ildefonso soil is deep and well drained. Permeability is
moderately rapid and available water capacity is low. The effective rooting depth is 60
inches or more. Runoff is medium and the hazard of water erosion is moderate.
•Torriorthents-Camborthids-Rock outcrop complex, (steep): This broadly defined unit
consists of exposed sandstone and shale bedrock, loose stones, and soils that are shallow
to deep. Torriorthents are shallow to moderately deep. Camborthids are shallow to deep.
The Rock outcrop is mainly Mesa Verde sandstone and Wasatch shale. Elevation ranges
from 5,000 to 8,500 feet. The average annual precipitation is about 10 to 15 inches, the
average annual air temperature is 39 to 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is
80 to 105 days.
•Torriorthents-Rock outcrop complex, (steep): This broadly defined unit consists of
exposed sandstone and shale bedrock, and stony soils that are shallow to moderately
deep. Torriorthents are shallow to moderately deep. The Rock outcrop is mainly Mesa
Verde sandstone and Wasatch shale. Elevation ranges from 5,000 to 8,500 feet. The
average annual precipitation is about 10 to 15 inches, the average annual air temperature
is 39 to 46 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 80 to 105 days.
•Wann sandy loam, (1-3%): This deep, somewhat poorly drained, nearly level to gently
sloping, low-lying soil is on terraces and bottom land in valleys. Elevation ranges from
5,000 to 6,500 feet. The average annual precipitation is about 12 inches, the average
annual air temperature is about 48 degrees F, and the average frost-free period is 120
days. Permeability is moderately rapid and available water capacity is high. The effective
rooting depth varies with the level of the water table but is about 2 feet. Runoff is slow
and the hazard of water erosion is moderate.
Ursa Final Reclamation Work Flow Chart
/F Pads/Facilities
Final Reclamation
Refer to Reclamation Plan
Pads/Facilities
Applicable to roads solely
associated to the P&A pad.
BLM notification =
48 hrs
BLM/COGCC as
applicable
Save seed tags for
annual reclamation
report
P&A and associated
paper work and
notifications
Recontour to existing
topography
Refer to field wide SWMP
Remove all operating
Equipment
Soil prep
Ursa Land Dept to notify
land owners of
Reclamation activity
Monitor
Seed with applicable seed mix
Mulch with Certified weed free
straw or use existing slash
Refer to SWMP
for applicable
seem mix
Save seed tags
Final reclamation will be
achieved at 70% (CDPHE) and
80% (COGCC)
Appendix D
Ursa Interim Reclamation Work Flow Chart
Pads/Facilities/ROWs
Interim Reclamation
ROWs
Refer to Reclamation Plan
Pads/Facilities
Monitor site on a monthly basis
BLM notification =
48 hrs
Crop land 3 months
Non Crop land 6 months
Save seed tags for
annual reclamation
report
Post Drilling
Prepare soil, seed using
applicable seed mix.
Refer to field wide SWMP
Reduce to operating area
Mulch with certified weed free
straw @ 2 tons /acre
Ursa Land Dept to notify
land owners of
Reclamation activity
*Post Construction
Ursa Land notifies land
owners
Seed with applicable seed mix
Mulch with Certified weed free
straw or use existing slash
Refer to SWMP
for applicable
seem mix
48 hr BLM
Notification save
seed tags
Final reclamation will be
achieved at 70% (CDPHE) and
80% (COGCC)
*Seeding of ROW should take place
within two weeks of backfilling. Longer
than two weeks, ROW will have be
prepped before seeding.
Appendix D
Ursa Temporary Reclamation Work Flow Chart
Pads/Facilities/ROWs
Temporary Reclamation
Refer to Reclamation Plan
Pads/Facilities
Monitor site on a regular basis
Save seed tags for
annual reclamation
report
Pad Construction
Mulch with Certified weed- free straw or
use existing slash
Seed berms, topsoil stock pile
and cutslopes with applicable
seed mix.
Refer to SWMP
for applicable
seem mix
Appendix D
TABLE 1
IDEAL PLANTING TIMES
MONTH SEED
January Yes
February Yes
March Yes
April Yes
May Yes
June No
July No
August No
September Yes
October Yes
November Yes
December Yes