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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1.25 Reclamation PlansApril 2020 Prepared by: SGM 118 West Sixth Street, Ste. 200 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 970-984-9017 Prepared for: Nutrient Holdings, LLC 520 River View Drive, #506 New Castle, CO 81647 Reclamation Plan Nutrient Farm PUD Garfield County, Colorado Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan ii TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 Executive Summary 1 1.1 Summary of Reclamation Activities 1 2.0 Site Characterization 4 2.1 Soils 4 2.1.1 Soil Sample Results 5 2.2 Vegetation 7 2.3 Climate Data 10 3.0 Proposed Reclamation Activities 10 3.1 Pre-Construction Weed Control 10 3.2 Vegetation Removal 10 3.3 Erosion Control 10 3.4 Soil Storage 11 3.5 Soil Replacement 11 3.6 Soil Amendments 11 3.7 Seeding 11 3.7.1 Temporary Seed Mix 11 3.7.2 Long-term/Permanent Seed Mixes 12 3.7.3 Sagebrush Seeding 13 3.8 Mulching 13 3.9 Touch Up Seeding/Monitoring 14 3.1 Noxious Weeds 14 LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Pinyon-Juniper/Sagebrush Seed Mix 12 Table 2. Mixed Mountain Shrublands/Oakbrush Seed Mix 13 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. PUD Plan - West 2 Figure 2. PUD Plan - East 3 Figure 3. Soil Types 6 Figure 4. Vegetation 9 Figure 5. Seeding Areas 15 LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix A. Soil Test Results 16 Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 1 1.0 Executive Summary This Reclamation Plan was prepared at the request of Nutrient Farm PUD and Garfield County, Colorado. Nutrient Farm is proposing to develop the existing pastures and associated ranch infrastructure, and the shrubby hillsides at the toe of the Grand Hogback into a multi-use residential, agricultural, and recreational- amenity area. The proposed development is located in Garfield County, Colorado in Sections 33, 34, and 35, Township 5 South, Range 90 West (6th Principal Meridian), and Sections 5 and 6, Township 6 South, Range 90 West (6th Principal Meridian) (Figure 1). While the flat pasturelands have good soils for reclamation and would not need extra management, the steep slopes are derived from poor shaley soil types and given these poor soils and slope steepness (which can reduce soil moisture), reclaiming these areas will be challenging. Unfortunately, simply scattering seed in disturbance areas will likely be relatively ineffective for reclamation and would end up being a waste of time and money. Even with using soil amendments, mulch, and a site-specific seed mix, it is also important to realize that given the existing soil conditions and background vegetation on steeper, shaley soils, reclamation and establishment of grasses, shrubs and native forbs can be expected to take up to 3 years, and will likely match background native plant community types in that cover can be relatively sparse, and dominated by only a few species. Noxious weeds (Russian knapweed and cheatgrass) are also common in the area, and without aggressive annual treatment (early summer spraying/treatment, and possibly an early winter treatment for cheatgrass), then they could become extremely difficult to control; Garfield County requires that noxious weeds are managed and controlled (see Noxious Weed Inventory Report). The purpose of this document is to provide recommended prescriptions to stabilize and revegetate disturbance areas. A similar report has been prepared for reclamation efforts along the Vulcan Ditch (SGM 2019). 1.1 Summary of Reclamation Activities • The PUD would occur in four primary vegetation types. o Pasturelands dominated by agricultural cultivars o Sagebrush shrublands o Mixed mountain shrublands, dominated by mountain mahogany and other species o Oakbrush • Soil conditions. o Most soil types across the PUD would not need soil amendments o Mancos shale-derived soils will be difficult to revegetate without some soil amendments; soil samples were collected and tested by CSU Ag extension for recommended amendments. • Soil roughening- will be needed to help reduce erosion and increase soil moisture. • Application of seed mix by either drill seeder or by hand application. • Application of mulch- given dry conditions, mulch should be used to reduce erosion and improve seedling establishment. • Annual noxious weed control- knapweed, Scotch thistle and cheatgrass are common in the area and are within the seedbank; annual aggressive treatment will be needed to prevent a full infestation. Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 2 Figure 1. PUD Plan - West Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 3 Figure 2. PUD Plan - East Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 4 2.0 Site Characterization Nutrient Farm would be an approximately 1,140-acre, agriculturally oriented mixed-use PUD that revolves around the use and enjoyment of community-based working farms with multi-use entertainment and recreational facilities (Nutrient Farm PUD Guide 2020). The PUD would include two working farms, a mix of residential homes, a commercial/industrial area, outdoor adventure parks with outdoor entertainment/ music venue, a campground, lodge, motorized and non-motorized trails, and a retreat/spa facility. In summary, the PUD would include 17 new single-family residences with allowances for accessory dwelling units, occupying approximately 53 acres (or 4.7 percent) of the PUD area. One single family/ranch home already exists on the property. Approximately 24 percent of the PUD area would support agricultural operations, including future bunkhouses which could seasonally house employees working on the farms. Approximately 1 percent of the PUD would support a commercial industrial area, which could be used to support agricultural operations, commercial uses, and industrial uses; on-site employee housing units would be allowed within the remaining portions of the PUD. Approximately 14 percent of the PUD area would support an outdoor adventure park, which would contain motorized and non-motorized tracks, an outdoor entertainment and music area, a campground, a lodge and a spa/retreat facility. The project would entail approximately 297.62 acres of surface impacts. Most of the development would occur within pastures (69 percent of impacts would occur within pastures. Further, most of the development within the pastures would also be from agricultural activities, either in the form of orchards, fields, or other similar land uses. New impacts to native habitats and vegetation communities would primarily occur within the Sagebrush Shrubland habitat type, primarily through the conversion to recreational activity areas, roads/transportation, and buildings. Please see the PUD 2.1 Soils The PUD would occur within eleven soil types, listed below. The soils on this site consist of various types of clay material. Conditions that were recorded in the geotechnical report indicated that the first 20 to 30 feet consisted of a low plasticity clay. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Soils Map shows the area soil types. The following soil units are within the proposed PUD include: 10 – Begay sandy loam, 1 to 6 percent slopes: These soil units are deep, well drained, moderately sloping, hilly, to steep soils found on valley sides and alluvial fans with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,500 feet. These soils formed from alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. This soil is well drained and can be classified as prime farmland if irrigated. 11 – Begay sandy loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes: These soil units are deep, well drained, moderately sloping found on valley sides and alluvial fans with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,500 feet. These soils formed from alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. These soils are not hydric and are not classified as prime farmland. 14 – Chilton channery loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes: These soil units are deep, well drained, moderately sloping found on valley sides and alluvial fans with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,500 feet. These soils formed from alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. These soils are not hydric and are not classified as prime 29 – Heldt clay loam, 3 to 6 percent slopes: These soil units are deep, well drained, moderately sloping found on valley sides and alluvial fans with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,000 feet. These soils formed from fine-textured alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. These soils are not hydric and are classified as Farmland of statewide importance. 30 – Heldt clay loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes: These soil units are deep, well drained, moderately sloping found on valley sides and alluvial fans with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,000 feet. These soils Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 5 formed from fine-textured alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. These soils are not hydric and are classified as Farmland of statewide importance. 47 – Nihill channery loam, 6 to 25 percent slopes: These soil units are deep, well drained, moderately sloping, hilly, to steep soils found on valley sides and alluvial fans with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,500 feet. These soils formed from alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. This soil is well drained, non-hydric, and not prime farmland. 51 – Olney loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes: These soil units are deep, well drained, moderately sloping found on valley sides and alluvial fans with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,500 feet. These soils formed from fine-textured alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. These soils are not hydric and are classified as Farmland of statewide importance. 65 – Torrifluents nearly level: These soil units are found in flat areas, primarily around rivers and floodplains around 5,000 to 7,000 feet. These are well-drained, and the water table can be reached within 12 to 36 inches. These soils occasionally flood. These soils are not classified as prime farmland. 66 – Torriorthents-Camborthids-Rock outcrop complex, steep: These soil units are shallow, well drained, and found on steep mountainsides around 5,000 to 8,500 feet. These soils formed as stony, basaltic alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. These soils are not hydric and are not classified as prime farmland. 67 – Torriorthents-Rock outcrop complex, steep: These soil units are shallow, well drained, and found on steep mountainsides around 5,800 to 8,500 feet. These soils formed as stony, basaltic alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. These soils are not hydric and are not classified as prime farmland. 69 – Vale silt loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes: These soil units are deep, well drained, and found on alluvial fans, benches, and mesas at 5,000 to 7,200 feet. The parent material of these soils consists of calcareous eolian deposits. These are not hydric soils and they are classified as Farmland of statewide importance. 2.1.1 Soil Sample Results Two different soil samples were taken for soils derived from Mancos Shale parent material. These samples were collected and sent to Colorado State University’s agricultural extension office for analysis. Please see Appendix A - Agricultural Test Report. • Sample #1 – This sample is from north-facing steeper slopes. The soil type in this area is Torriorthents and Camborthids, with a more well-developed O and A horizon. o Soils are very highly basic (pH 8.1), with very high clay content. Organic matter is very low (1.9%). Supplemental nitrogen (30 lbs/ac) and phosphorus (40 lbs/ac) is recommended. Use of local, native species for reclamation is highly recommended given site-specificity issues. • Sample #2 – This sample is from south-facing slopes of exposed shale (torriorthents). o Soils are highly basic (pH 7.8), with high clay content. Organic matter is very low (4.2%). Supplemental nitrogen (40 lbs/ac) and phosphorus (40 lbs/ac) is recommended. Use of local, native species for reclamation is highly recommended given site-specificity issues. Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 6 Figure 3. Soil Types Nutrient Farm PUD 7 2.2 Vegetation The property generally has four separate, dominant vegetation types. The majority of the property, including the areas proposed for development, is dominated by grazed pasture areas with gently sloping topography, located on alluvial/colluvial material which has been leveled by deposition and tilling. The steep slopes above the pastures are dominated by sparse pinyon-juniper woodlands and mixed mountain shrublands with minimal understory vegetation, derived from Mancos shale; in the transitional areas between the mixed mountain shrublands and pastures there are remnant stands of sagebrush shrublands. The portion of the property immediately adjacent to the Colorado River supports sparse and discontinuous wetland/riparian vegetation on the banks of the river. No wetlands extend beyond the immediate boundaries of the river’s channel. Each of the vegetation types is described below in more detail. Pastures. The pasture portions of the property are dominated by agricultural cultivars including smooth brome (Bromus inermis), orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata), western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), as well as some native fescues (Festuca spp.) and rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa). The noxious weed cheatgrass (Anisantha tectorum) is common, and weedy adventitious species such as tumble mustard (Sisymbrium spp.) are also prevalent. In the spring, the introduced purple mustard (Chorispora tenella) and storkbill filaree (Erodium cicutarium) are also common. The site was grazed at the time of investigation, and additional pasture grasses are likely present and identifiable earlier in the grazing season. The condition of the pastures is typical of grazed or dryland pasture sites, with low levels of ground coverage and minimal diversity. Historically (pre-settlement) this site would have supported a more diverse assemblage of native forbs, with a significant shrub component (likely sagebrush [Artemisia tridentata] and rabbitbrush) and isolated stands of conifers, oakbrush (Quercus gambelii) or cottonwoods depending on groundwater availability. Some areas of the flat terrace on the property are not grazed or irrigated and support a sparse coverage of sagebrush that is likely representative of original conditions. Mixed Mountain Shrublands. The steep slopes on the south side of the property are composed of Mancos shale which has been uplifted and deformed by the Grand Hogback monocline, which passes through the property. Mancos shale typically supports limited plant diversity and lower density of vegetation, due to challenging growing conditions associated with the formation’s high salt content, poor water infiltration, and high erodibility. In lower elevations, Mancos shale can support a salt-desert scrub community with a high percentage of endemic plant species. However, at the elevations found on this property, and in the general area surrounding the Project, Mancos shale soil types support sparse pinyon-juniper woodland (Pinus edulis – Sabina osteosperma) with mixed shrub component of Gambel oak (Quercus gambelii), Typical conditions in the pasture areas. Typical conditions in ungrazed terrace areas, seen in center midground from the upgradient slope. Nutrient Farm PUD 8 mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus and C. ledifolius) and Utah serviceberry (Amelanchier utahensis). The shrub component is dense in some areas on north-facing slopes with high moisture availability, and sparse or absent on south-facing slopes. The steepest south-facing slopes of Mancos shale are largely bare of vegetation. Sagebrush Shrublands. Around the edges of the previously cleared and tilled pastures there are small remnant stands of sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata ssp. bonvillensis) shrublands. Along washes and in more well drained soils, great basin sagebrush (A. t. ssp. tridentata) can also be found. Understory vegetation is often compromised by cheatgrass (Anisantha tectorum), but native grasses and forbs include smooth brome, western wheatgrass, Indian ricegrass (Oryzopsis hymenoides), and needle and thread grass (Hesperostipa comata). Riparian/Wetlands. Within the channel of the Colorado River, isolated and discontinuous patches of riparian and wetland vegetation occur on point bars and sheltered eddy banks. Vegetation is predominantly Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia), an invasive exotic tree species. Other notable species include narrowleaf cottonwood (Populus angustifolia), serviceberry, and dogwood (Cornus stolonifera). The banks are generally composed of large-diameter cobble material which is well-drained and limits the extent of fringe wetland conditions. However, in protected eddy zones enough silt has collected to support small stands of coyote willow (Salix exigua) which suggest the presence of wetland conditions. There are also small occurrences of the noxious weed species Russian olive (Elaeaganus angustifolia) and tamarisk (Tamarix chinensis). The riparian habitat is in poor condition, with minimal continuous canopy coverage over the river and a high percentage of exotics, likely due to historic grazing pressure. Willows dominate in small backwater reaches, adjacent to grazed pasture (right foreground). Typical conditions on the Mancos slopes. Note sparse shrub coverage on the south-facing slope (center middle view), with greater abundance on the north- facing slopes (left middle view). Typical conditions in remnant sagebrush shrublands. Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 9 Figure 4. Vegetation Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 10 2.3 Climate Data The nearest weather recording station relative to the project area is the NOAA Glenwood Springs #2 station (053359), which is approximately 15 miles to the east. The month with the greatest average precipitation is April and September, with 1.59 inches of precipitation; the other months see around 1.2 inches of precipitation on average. Average snowfall is 59.3 inches, with most of the snow occurring in January. The average maximum temperature of 88.5°F occurs in July, and the average minimum temperature of 36.9°F occurs in January (Western Regional Climate Center: http://www.wrcc.dri.edu). These climate data show that the project area occurs in a temperate and semi-arid location, and the reclamation plans presented in this document have been developed for maximum likelihood of successful revegetation in this challenging environment. 3.0 Proposed Reclamation Activities 3.1 Pre-Construction Weed Control Prior to soil disturbing activities, it is strongly advised that noxious weeds be treated. This will greatly help reduce the need for noxious weed treatments in the long-term. The landowner is pursuing holistic removal methods such as mechanical (goats, shovels, mini-backhoe, etc.) or natural herbicides (vinegar, salts, or other compounds). Knapweeds and cheatgrass are very tough plants to control, and the landowner is reminded that persistent treatments will be needed to achieve control. 3.2 Vegetation Removal Cleared vegetation should be stockpiled, shredded or broken up, and mixed with topsoil or used for reclamation. Material should be placed in a manner to help protect reclamation areas and provide micro- climate growing conditions, and help improve soil moisture, shading, and reduce wind scour. Excess cut vegetation should be removed to reduce visual impacts, as needed. 3.3 Erosion Control The project would be covered by a Stormwater Construction Permit, as there would be more than one acre of disturbance. Standard erosion controls (Best Management Practices; BMP) such as straw wattles will be utilized and maintained during the life of the reclamation efforts. Waterbars, slope breakers, erosion control blankets, fencing, mulch, straw bales, and rolls may also be used to manage soil erosion. Soil erosion control will be accomplished on steep areas (greater than 3:1). Per CDPHE requirements, the project will: • Re-construct and stabilize water courses and drainage features. • Re-construct drainage basins and reclaim impoundments to maintain the drainage pattern, profile, and dimension to approximate the natural features found in nearby naturally functioning basins. • Re-construct and stabilize stream channels, drainages, and impoundments to exhibit similar hydrologic characteristics found in stable naturally functioning systems. • There shall be no evidence of down cutting or aggradation in drainages adjacent to the reclaimed area as a result of the project. If possible, reclamation work and any associated soil stockpiling should be done in small enough areas to be completed prior to the next rain event. If soil stockpiles need to be left for an extended period or during rain events, erosion and/or sediment controls will be installed. Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 11 Modifications to BMPs and erosion control measures would need to be updated in the SWMP; these modifications would be updated with coordination through the Proponent to ensure compliance with the SWPPP is maintained through the reclamation process. 3.4 Soil Storage The salvaged topsoil shall be stored separately from subsoil or other excavated materials. Windrowing or stockpiling of topsoil and subsoil separately shall be implemented whenever topography allows. Topsoil must not be mixed or covered with subsoil material and should not be used as backfill. Dry drainages or washes that cross disturbed areas should not be blocked with topsoil or subsoil piles. Specifically, topsoil and subsoil should be placed outside of drainages. Gaps should be left at regular intervals in the windrowed or stockpiled topsoil to avoid ponding and diversion of natural runoff during storm events. 3.5 Soil Replacement After subgrade or grading work, backfilling and recontouring would occur. Subsoils should be graded to final topography, and then topsoil may be placed back on the surface. Any excess excavated materials or materials unfit for backfill should either be utilized elsewhere or shallowly mounded on large fill areas (to help avoid settling issues) and then covered with topsoil, as described below. Cut and fill slopes should be left very rough. Dirt should have large divots and soil humps being approximately 1-foot deep or tall. Recontouring to a rough texture helps trap broadcast seed and moisture and helps match the surrounding landscape. A minimum of 6-8 inches of topsoil would be replaced unless site conditions preclude this depth. Topsoil should also be left very rough. Soils should not be worked when wet to avoid mixing, loss of topsoil, and erosion issues. 3.6 Soil Amendments Based on desired establishment of reclamation species, soil samples were submitted for standard agronomic testing in April 2019. The tests evaluated texture, pH, organic matter, cation exchange capacity (CEC), alkalinity, salinity, and basic nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium [NPK]; Appendix A). The reclamation contractor will acquire and apply soil amendments. Based on the existing soil conditions and desired reclamation success, the following is recommended for application to needed areas (see Figure 3). • Triagenics Biotic Soil Media (BSM) in Torriorthent soil types. o Fertilizer (1:1:0) would be mixed in with BSM. 30-40 lbs/ac N, 40 lbs/ac P, 0 K (see Figure 3 and Appendix A). Given the poor soil conditions, seed germination may be very poor in these areas, and to establish vegetation some amendments would be needed. This mix can be sprayed on the soil surface. 3.7 Seeding 3.7.1 Temporary Seed Mix Final seeding is best done in the late fall; therefore, if construction occurs in the summer, it may be desirable to apply a temporary seed mix to the area to help minimize erosion and provide some site stabilization. Temporary seed mixes are relatively inexpensive, and the large seeds germinate quickly. Seeding can occur at a rate of around 20 lbs. per acre. Two recommended varieties include: • Annual rye (Lolium multiflorum) • Regreen (a wheat and wheatgrass cross) Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 12 3.7.2 Long-term/Permanent Seed Mixes Seeding should occur in the late fall to avoid seeds from germinating in the summer or fall, and then either desiccating or freezing. Drill seeding could be utilized on pastures and more level terrain, but broadcast seeding would likely be needed on steeper slopes. Drill seeding will be the preferred method where equipment access is feasible; seed would be placed in direct contact with the soil at an average depth of 0.5 inch. For drill seeding applications, small seeds shall be packaged separately to allow for separate application, unless drill seeder has segregated bins. Small seeds should be planted no deeper than 0.25 inch or should be broadcast. Broadcast seeding would be employed in areas where drill seeding is not possible. Seed would be uniformly applied over the disturbed areas with manually operated cyclone-bucket spreaders or mechanical spreaders. Broadcast seeding rates should be approximately 120 pure live seeds (PLS) per square foot if broadcasted. For pasturelands, typical irrigated (or dryland) cultivar mixes would be appropriate, seeded at rates of approximately 15 lbs/acre. The following seed mixes are relatively “simple” mixes, additional native species may be added. see Figure 3 for seeding locations. Table 1. Pinyon-Juniper/Sagebrush Seed Mix Common Name Scientific Name Variety PLS lbs/acre Shrubs Fourwing saltbush Atriplex canescens VNS 1 Sagebrush Artemisia tridentata Collect from site See below Grasses Bluebunch wheatgrass Pseudorogneria spicata (Agropyron spicatum) Anatone, Goldar 3 Bottlebrush squirreltail Elymus elymoides State Bridge, Little Sahara 3 Western wheatgrass Pasopyrum smithii UP Colorado, Rosana 5 Muttongrass Poa fendleriana UP Ruin Canyon, NVS 1 Forbs Arrowleaf balsamroot Balsamorhiza sagittate NA Patterson’s milvetch Astragalus pattersonii NA Scarlet globemallow Sphaeralcea coccinea NA Sulphur flower Eriogonum umbellatum NA Note: forbs should be approximately 10% of mix, as available. Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 13 Table 2. Mixed Mountain Shrublands/Oakbrush Seed Mix Common Name Scientific Name Variety PLS lbs/acre Shrubs Utah serviceberry Amelanchier utahensis VNS 1 Mountain mahogany Cercocarpus montanus VNS 1 Grasses Bluebunch wheatgrass Pseudorogneria spicata (Agropyron spicatum) Anatone, Goldar 3 Bottlebrush squirreltail Elymus elymoides State Bridge, Little Sahara 3 Western wheatgrass Pasopyrum smithii UP Colorado, Rosana 3 Muttongrass Poa fendleriana UP Ruin Canyon, NVS 1 Sandberg bluegrass Poa sandbergii, Poa secunda UP Colorado, VNS 1 Forbs Arrowleaf balsamroot Balsamorhiza sagittate NA Patterson’s milvetch Astragalus pattersonii NA Scarlet globemallow Sphaeralcea coccinea NA Sulphur flower Eriogonum umbellatum NA Note: forbs should be approximately 10% of mix, as available. 3.7.3 Sagebrush Seeding Recently, local BLM offices have been recommending the local collection of seeds from sagebrush plants, and hand broadcasting during a late fall seeding. In 2017-2019, we have participated in seed collection and seeding efforts, and based on our experience, this method is very effective, and relatively easy. Ripe sagebrush seed is stripped by hand from remaining sagebrush plants. The seed is stripped immediately into bags in late October and is then scattered over target reclamation areas. Collection effort should be concentrated on individual plants that had large numbers of fertilized, mature seed. Plants that were not mature or had already dropped seed can be avoided. Seed fertility and abundance was verified in the field visually, or by examining the endosperm with hand lens and tweezers in uncertain cases. Collected seed can be gathered in pouches/bags and immediately applied by hand-broadcasting to the right- of-way. A little snow is acceptable, but consistent snow coverage is not likely ideal. This method is recommended for use at Nutrient Farm; purchasing of other sagebrush seed to conduct reclamation in the PUD may not produce desirable results, given the site-specific soil conditions. 3.8 Mulching In steeper areas and on south facing slopes, we recommend the use of mulching to maximize moisture retention, reduce wind and water erosion, and improve the chances for revegetation success. Hydromulch should be applied after soil amendments and seeding has occurred; sometimes seed can also be mixed in with the hydromulch, but not more than 10% of the seed. Hydromulch should be applied evenly on steeper slope areas, at a rate of 3,000 to 3,500 lbs/acre. Attached to this document is a specification sheet for EcoMatrix, available from Triton Environmental in Grand Junction. Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 14 Erosion control blankets (ECB) may also be used for steeper slopes. ECBs should not have plastic mesh netting, even if it is claimed that they are “biodegradable”. Use ECBs with cotton string netting to prevent wildlife entrainment. Utilization of ECB best management practice installation specification sheets should be utilized, per the Stormwater Management Plan. 3.9 Touch Up Seeding/Monitoring Given some areas with steep slopes and poor soils, the landowner should monitor the reclamation area for erosion issues, patches where seed failed to germinate, and other issues. While using native seed mixes provide the best chance for long term site reclamation, native seeding projects often take two to three years before good establishment is realized. During that time, if there are areas where there is no obvious seed germination, additional “spot seeding” should be considered in the fall. 3.1 Noxious Weeds A Weed Management Plan has been prepared for this project; please see that report for detailed information on noxious weeds. Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 15 Figure 5. Seeding Areas Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 16 4.0 Appendix A. Soil Test Results Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 17 April 2019 Reclamation Plan Garfield County, Colorado Prepared by: SGM 118 West Sixth Street, Ste. 200 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 970-984-9017 Prepared for: Nutrient Farm PUD 5670 Brentwood Drive Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 Vulcan Ditch/Nutrient Farm PUD www.sgm-inc.com Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan ii TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 Executive Summary 1 1.1 Summary of Reclamation Activities 1 2.0 Site Characterization 2 2.1 Soils 2 2.1.1 Soil Sample Results 2 2.2 Vegetation 3 2.2.1 Pasturelands 3 2.2.2 Mixed Mountain Shrublands 3 2.2.3 Shale Breaks 3 2.3 Climate Data 4 3.0 Proposed Reclamation Activities 4 3.1 Pre-Construction Weed Control 4 3.2 Vegetation Removal 4 3.3 Erosion Control 4 3.4 Soil Storage 5 3.5 Trenching 5 3.6 Soil Replacement 5 3.7 Soil Amendments 5 3.8 Seeding 7 3.8.1 Temporary Seed Mix 7 3.8.2 Long-term/Permanent Seed Mixes 7 3.9 Mulching 9 3.10 Touch Up Seeding/Monitoring 9 3.11 Noxious Weeds 9 LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Native Shrubland Seed Mix 7 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. Vicinity Map 1 Figure 2. Soil Amendments and Hydromulch Areas 6 Figure 3. Seeding Areas and Mixes 8 LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix A – Product Specification Sheets 10 Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 1 1.0 Executive Summary Nutrient Farm PUD (the “Proponent”) proposes to reconstruct and realign segments of the existing Vulcan Ditch (ditch), located on the south side of the Colorado River between New Castle and Glenwood Springs (Figure 1). The ditch has been out of service for approximately 10 years, and some portions of the ditch are being proposed for new piping and burial. This will require creating a working platform for construction, approximately 15-feet wide, and then subsequent recontouring and reclamation. While the flat pasturelands have good soils for reclamation and would not need extra management, the steep slopes are derived from poor shaley soil types and given these poor soils and slope steepness (which can reduce soil moisture), reclaiming the ditch area will be challenging. Unfortunately, simply scattering some seed along the construction corridor will likely be relatively ineffective for reclamation and would end up being a waste of time and money. However, even with using soil amendments, mulch, and a site- specific seed mix, it is also important to realize that given the soil conditions and background vegetation, creating a green swath of grasses along the ditch corridor is also unrealistic; reclamation and establishment of grasses, shrubs and native forbs can be expected to take up to 3 years, and will likely match background native plant community types in cover and species richness. Noxious weeds (Russian knapweed and cheatgrass) are also common in the area, and without aggressive annual treatment (early summer spraying/treatment, and possibly an early winter treatment for cheatgrass), then they will overrun the ditch area; Garfield County requires that noxious weeds are managed and controlled. The purpose of this document is to provide recommended prescriptions to stabilize and revegetate the ditch within proposed disturbance areas. This report only addresses the ditch on the southern side of the Colorado River. 1.1 Summary of Reclamation Activities • The ditch will cross three primary vegetation types; o Pasturelands dominated by agricultural cultivars, o Mixed mountain shrublands, dominated by mountain mahogany and other species, o Mancos shale breaks dominated by very sparse mountain mahogany and individual grasses and forbs. • Evaluate soil conditions o Mancos shale formations will be difficult to revegetate without some soil amendments; soil samples will be collected and tested by CSU Ag extension for recommended amendments. • Soil roughening- will be needed to help reduce erosion and increase soil moisture. • Application of seed mix by either drill seeder or by hand application. • Application of mulch- given dry conditions, mulch should be used to reduce erosion and improve seedling establishment. • Annual noxious weed control- knapweed and cheatgrass are common in the area and are within the seedbank; annual aggressive spraying will be needed to prevent a full infestation. Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 1 Figure 1. Vicinity Map Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 2 2.0 Site Characterization The Proponent is proposing to realign and reconstruction approximately 4,338 feet (0.82 mile) of the Vulcan Ditch. The new buried 18-inch HDPE (high density polyethylene) pipeline would require an approximate 15- foot wide construction corridor, which may extend up to 30 feet in some areas due to cut and fill and laying back slopes to minimize long-term erosion issues. Larger disturbance areas would mostly be on the up-hill side of the ditch. 2.1 Soils The ditch will cross five soil types, listed below, starting from east to west: • Torriorthents-Camborthids-Rock outcrop complex, steep. This soil type occurs on steep slopes, immediately south of the flume crossing the Colorado River, and along the Mancos shale outcrop area, just east of the existing homes. It is derived from stony, basaltic alluvium derived from sandstone and shale. The upper layer is variable but is mostly fine sandy loams and clay loams with shallow unweathered bedrock. It is well drained, but given the shallow lithic bedrocks, runoff can be high. It is non-saline to slightly saline. • Olney loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes. This soil type occurs in alluvium and in the deposition zone of the unnamed drainage along the eastern irrigated hay fields. This soil occurs in alluvium derived from sandstone and shale, with calcium carbonates up to 15%, and is nonsaline to very slightly saline. It is well drained, and the upper profile is loam and sandy clay loams. • Heldt clay, 6 to 12 percent slopes. This is the dominant soil type in the irrigated pasturelands. It is derived from fine-textured alluvium from sandstone and shales, with the upper soil profiles being clay loams. It is nonsaline to very slightly saline. • Nihill channery loam, 6 to 25 percent slopes. This soil type occurs at the toe of steeper slopes, primarily towards the western end of the ditch. It occurs in alluvium derived from sandstone and shales. The soil profile is dominated by channery and very channery loams and is well drained. 2.1.1 Soil Sample Results Two soil samples were collected and sent to Colorado State University’s agricultural extension office for analysis. • Sample #1 – This sample is from north-facing steeper slopes. The soil type in this area is Torriorthents and Camborthids, with a more well-developed O and A horizon. o Results will be presented once available from CSU. • Sample #2 – This sample is from south-facing slopes of exposed shale (torriorthents). o Results will be presented once available from CSU. Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 3 2.2 Vegetation In summary, the site is characterized by variably dense, shrubby vegetation on very poor soil types; the density and diversity of vegetation is primarily driven by slope and aspect. Of concern, is that some areas are on shale breaks, that normally support very sparse vegetation profiles. In these areas, reclamation will be very challenging. 2.2.1 Pasturelands These previously irrigated pastures still support some agricultural cultivars but is slowly transitioning to more drought-tolerant and weedy species, given a cessation in irrigation waters. Vegetation is currently dominated by the noxious weed cheatgrass (Anisantha [Bromus] tectorum), crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum), Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), purple mustard (Chorispora tenella), flixweed (Descurania sophia), tumble mustard (Sisymbrium altissimum), kochia (Kochia spp.). small patches of smooth brome (Bromus inermis), and individual sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata tridentata) and rabbitbrush (Ericamerica nauseosus). 2.2.2 Mixed Mountain Shrublands Mixed mountain shrublands describes the dominant vegetation type on north-facing slopes, where soil moistures are higher, and there is more development of the soil profile. These sites support sometimes very dense stands of mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus), with individual Utah serviceberry (Amelanchier utahensis), pinyon pine (Pinus edulis), Utah juniper (Sabina osteosperma), Indian ricegrass (Oryzopsis hymenoides), crested wheatgrass, cheatgrass, and western snowberry (Symphoricarpos oreophilus). 2.2.3 Shale Breaks Along short sections of the route, there are steep, south facing slopes on shale breaks. In these areas, there is little to no topsoil, and vegetation is very sparse (<5 percent cover). Vegetation included individual mountain mahogany shrubs, Indian ricegrass, and slender buckwheat (Eriogonum microthecum). Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 4 2.3 Climate Data The nearest weather recording station relative to the project area is the NOAA Glenwood Springs #2 station (053359), which is approximately 15 miles to the east. The month with the greatest average precipitation is April and September, 1.59 inches; the other months see around 1.2 inches of precipitation on average. Average snowfall is 59.3 inches, with most of the snow occurring in January. The average maximum temperature of 88.5°F occurs in July, and the average minimum temperature of 36.9°F occurs in January (Western Regional Climate Center: http://www.wrcc.dri.edu). These climate data show that the project area occurs in a temperate and semi-arid location, and the reclamation plans presented in this document have been developed for maximum likelihood of successful revegetation in this challenging environment. 3.0 Proposed Reclamation Activities 3.1 Pre-Construction Weed Control Prior to soil disturbing activities, it is strongly advised that noxious weeds be treated. This will greatly help reduce the need for noxious weed treatments in the long-term. The land owner is pursuing holistic removal methods such as mechanical (goats, shovels, mini-backhoe, etc.) or natural herbicides (vinegar, salts, or other organic compounds). Knapweed is a very tough plant to kill, and the landowner is reminded that persistent treatments will be needed to achieve control. 3.2 Vegetation Removal It is anticipated that most vegetation would be cleared from the 15-foot construction corridor and cut and fill slopes (possibly up to 30-feet in width). Cleared vegetation should be stockpiled, shredded or broken up, and mixed with topsoil or used for reclamation. Material should be placed in a manner to help protect reclamation area (on slopes). Excess cut vegetation should be removed to reduce visual impacts, as needed. 3.3 Erosion Control The project would be covered by a Stormwater Construction Permit, as there would be more than one acre of disturbance. Standard erosion controls such as straw wattles will be utilized and maintained during the life of the reclamation efforts. Waterbars, slope breakers, erosion control blankets, fencing, mulch, straw bales, and rolls may also be used to manage soil erosion. Soil erosion control will be accomplished on steep areas (greater than 3:1). Per CDPHE requirements, the project will: • Re-construct and stabilize water courses and drainage features. • Re-construct drainage basins and reclaim impoundments to maintain the drainage pattern, profile, and dimension to approximate the natural features found in nearby naturally functioning basins. • Re-construct and stabilize stream channels, drainages, and impoundments to exhibit similar hydrologic characteristics found in stable naturally functioning systems. • There shall be no evidence of down cutting or aggradation in drainages adjacent to the reclaimed area as a result of the project. If possible, reclamation work and any associated soil stockpiling should be done in small enough areas to be completed prior to the next rain event. If soil stockpiles need to be left for an extended period or during rain events, erosion and/or sediment controls will be installed. Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 5 Modifications to BMPs and erosion control measures would need to be updated in the SWMP; these modifications would be updated with coordination through the Proponent to ensure compliance with the SWPPP is maintained through the reclamation process. 3.4 Soil Storage The salvaged topsoil shall be stored separately from subsoil or other material excavated from the pipeline trench and cut/fill slopes. Windrowing of topsoil and subsoil separately shall be implemented whenever topography allows. Topsoil must not be mixed or covered with subsoil material and should not be used to pad the pipeline. Dry drainages or washes that cross the construction area, should not be blocked with topsoil or subsoil piles. Specifically, topsoil and subsoil should be placed outside of the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) of drainages. Gaps should be left at regular intervals in the windrowed topsoil to avoid ponding and diversion of natural runoff during storm events. 3.5 Trenching Along extended sloping areas of the pipeline, trenchbreakers (sandbags) should be installed in the trench and around the HDPE pipeline to prevent waters from flowing down the trenchline and prevent subsurface soil erosion (aka “piping”). 3.6 Soil Replacement After the pipe has been successfully placed in the trench, backfilling would occur. The trench would generally be backfilled with the subsoil previously excavated from the trench, except in rocky areas where appropriate fill material may be needed. The pipeline trench surface is assumed to be left relatively level for long-term access by tamping or walking with a wheeled or tracked vehicle. Compaction would be performed until there are no voids in the trench. Any excess excavated materials or materials unfit for backfill should either be utilized elsewhere or shallowly mounded on the trench (to help avoid trenchline settling issues) and then covered with topsoil, as described below. Cut and fill slopes should be left very rough. Dirt should have large divots and soil humps being approximately 1-foot deep or tall. Recontouring to a rough texture helps trap broadcast seed and moisture and helps match the surrounding landscape. A minimum of 12 inches of topsoil would be replaced unless site conditions preclude this depth. Topsoil should also be left very rough. Soils should not be worked when wet to avoid mixing, loss of topsoil, and erosion issues. 3.7 Soil Amendments Based on desired establishment of reclamation species, soil samples were submitted for standard agronomic testing in April 2019. The tests evaluated texture, pH, organic matter, cation exchange capacity (CEC), alkalinity, salinity, and basic nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium [NPK]). The reclamation contractor will acquire and apply soil amendments. Based on the existing soil conditions and desired reclamation success, the following will be applied to needed areas (see Figure 2 and Appendix A). • Triagenics Biotic Soil Media (BSM) in “Amendment Areas” see Figure 2. o Fertilizer (3:6:3) would be mixed in with BSM. Given the poor soil conditions, seed germination would be very poor in these areas, and to establish vegetation some amendments would be needed. This mix can be sprayed on the soil surface. Based on the occurrence of poorer soils areas, approximately 0.37 acres should receive treatments with spray-on soil amendments. Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 6 Figure 2. Soil Amendments and Hydromulch Areas Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 7 3.8 Seeding 3.8.1 Temporary Seed Mix Final seeding is best done in the late fall; therefore, if construction occurs in the summer, it may be desirable to apply a temporary seed mix to the area to help minimize erosion and provide some site stabilization. Temporary seed mixes are relatively inexpensive, and the large seeds germinate quickly. Two recommended varieties include: • Annual rye (Lolium multiflorum) • Regreen (a wheat and wheatgrass cross) Seeding can occur at a rate of around 20 lbs. per acre. 3.8.2 Long-term/Permanent Seed Mixes Seeding should occur in the late fall to avoid seeds from germinating in the summer or fall, and then either desiccating or freezing. Drill seeding could be utilized on pastures and more level terrain, but broadcast seeding would likely be needed on steeper slopes. Drill seeding will be the preferred method where equipment access is feasible; seed would be placed in direct contact with the soil at an average depth of 0.5 inch. For drill seeding applications, small seeds shall be packaged separately to allow for separate application. Small seeds should be planted no deeper than 0.25 inch or should be broadcast. Broadcast seeding would be employed in areas where drill seeding is not possible. Seed would be uniformly applied over the disturbed areas with manually operated cyclone-bucket spreaders or mechanical spreaders. The following Native Shrubland seed mix is a relatively “simple” mix, additional species may be added, see Figure 3 for seeding locations. Table 1. Native Shrubland Seed Mix Common Name Scientific Name Variety PLS lbs/acre Shrubs Fourwing saltbush Atriplex canescens VNS 5 Grasses Indian ricegrass Achnatherum (Oryzopsis) hymenoides White River, Paloma, rimrock 8 Bottlebrush squirreltail Elymus elymoides State Bridge, Little Sahara 5 Sandberg bluegrass Poa sandbergii, Poa secunda UP Colorado, VNS 1 Broadcast seeding rates should be approximately 120 pure live seeds (PLS) per square foot if broadcasted. For pasturelands, typical irrigated (or dryland) cultivar mixes would be appropriate, seeded at rates of approximately 15 lbs/acre. Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 8 Figure 3. Seeding Areas and Mixes Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 9 3.9 Mulching In steeper areas and on south facing slopes (see Figure 2. Soil Amendments and Hydromulching Areas), we recommend the use of mulching to maximize moisture retention, reduce wind and water erosion, and improve the chances for revegetation success. Hydromulch should be applied after soil amendments and seeding has occurred; sometimes seed can also be mixed in with the hydromulch, but not more than 10% of the seed. Hydromulch should be applied evenly on steeper slope areas, at a rate of 3,000 to 3,500 lbs/acre. Approximately 1.28 acres should be hydromulched. Attached to this document is a specification sheet for EcoMatrix, available from Triton Environmental in Grand Junction. 3.10 Touch Up Seeding/Monitoring Given the steep slopes and poor soils, the landowner should monitor the reclamation area for erosion issues, patches where seed failed to germinate, and other issues. While using native seed mixes provide the best chance for long term site reclamation, native seeding projects often take two to three years before good establishment is realized. During that time, if there are areas where there is no obvious seed germination, additional “spot seeding” should be considered in the fall. 3.11 Noxious Weeds Cheatgrass (Anisantha tectorum) and Russian knapweed (Centaurea repens) were present along the ditch alignment; with ditch piping and earthmoving, these species will likely become aggressive, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see a flush of new growth. However, timely treatment of these species (especially the knapweed) and dramatically help with control. The landowner should plan on treating the knapweed every June, and the cheatgrass in the early winter (late October) until good control is attained. Vulcan Ditch-Nutrient Farm PUD Reclamation Plan 10 4.0 Appendix A – Product Specification Sheets Development of Soils with Low Organic Matter (< 5%) Rapid Establishment and Sustained Growth of Vegetation Replacement of Costly or Difficult to Obtain Topsoil Replacement of Compost, Peat, Manure and Other Sources of Organic Material Typically Installed Beneath Hydraulically-applied and Rolled Erosion Control Products (HECPs and RECPs) as Growing Media. TriGanics Biotic Soil Media™ (BSM™) is designed as an alternative to topsoil to accelerate development of depleted soils/substrates with low organic matter, low nutrient levels and limited biological activity. This Engineered Soil Media™ (ESM™) helps improve soils for vegetative establishment and more effective erosion control. TriGanics is non-toxic with bark and wood fibers that have been phyto-sanitized to eliminate potential weed seeds and pathogens - prior to the introduction of soil building components. To the best of our knowledge, the information contained herein is accurate. However, Profile Products cannot assume any liability whatsoever for the accuracy or completeness thereof. Final determination of the suitability of any information or material for the use contemplated, of its manner of use and whether the suggested use infringes any patents is the sole responsibility of the user. Profile Products 2016© Profile Products 750 Lake Cook Road, Ste. 440 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 800-508-8681 or +1-847-215-3464 www.profileproducts.com Physical Properties* Test Method Units Typical Value Organic Material ASTM D586 % > 90 Mass/Unit Area ASTM D65661 g/m2 (oz/yd2) 392 (11.6) Water Holding Capacity ASTM D7367 % > 500 pH ASTM D1293 n/a 6.0 ± 1.0 Material Color Observed n/a Brown Environmental Properties* Test Method Units Typical Value Ecotoxicity EPA 2021.0 % 48-hr LC50 > 100% Product Composition Typical Value Thermally Processed Bark and Wood Fibers2 (within a pressurized vessel) 94% Proprietary blend of Polysaccharide Polymers, Biochar, Seaweed Extract, Humic Acid and Endomycorrhizae 6% Moisture Content 12% * When uniformly applied at a rate of 3,500 pounds per acre (3,900 kilograms/hectare) under laboratory conditions. 1. ASTM test methods developed for Rolled Erosion Control Products that have been modified to accommodate Hydraulic Erosion Control Products. 2. Heated to a temperature greater than 380 degrees Fahrenheit (193 degrees Celsius) for 5 minutes at a pressure greater than 50 psi (345 kPa) in order to be Thermally Refined™/ Processed and to achieve phyto-sanitization. Properties Test Method Units Nominal Value Bag Weight Scale kg (lb) 22.7 (50) Bags per Pallet Observed # 40 UV and weather-resistant plastic bags. Pallets are weather-proof stretch wrapped with UV resistant pallet cover. TriGanics DS 10/2016 Soil Building and Revegetation Mix seed and specified Prescriptive Agronomic Formulations at recommended rates in approved hydraulic seeding/ mulching equipment when water has reached approximately 1/3 of the working capacity. Add TriGanics Biotic Soil Media at a rate of 100 pounds per 100 gallons of water (45 kg / 379 L) on hydraulic equipment with gear or positive displacement pumps and 75 pounds per 100 gallons of water(34 kg / 379 L) on centrifugal pumps while agitating; add fertilizer when the tank is approximately 3/4 full. Apply over properly prepared surfaces that are deemed geotechnically stable. Confirm specific material loading rates with equipment manufacturer. Erosion Control Solution Apply TriGanics as directed above being sure to include all Prescriptive Agronomic Formulations, fertilizer and seed at their recommended rates. Apply EcoFlex™ HP-FGM™, EcoMatrix™ EFM™, or RECP over TriGanics as directed by manufacturer’s recommendation. Follow all manufacturer’s product selection guidelines or go to www.ProfilePS3.com for assistance. EcoMatrix™ Engineered Fiber Matrix™ (EFM) is a biodegradable bonded fiber matrix composed of 100% recycled Thermally Refined™ wood fibers, crimped interlocking biodegradable fibers, and naturally derived biopolymers. EcoMatrix is phytosanitized, free from harmful plastic nettings, and when cured forms an intimate bond with the soil surface to create a continuous, porous, absorbent and flexible erosion resistant blanket that allows for rapid germination and accelerated plant growth. EcoMatrix may require a 24-48 hour curing period to achieve maximum performance.  Erosion control for slopes ranging from mild to steep (≤1H:1V)  Meets or exceeds performance of bonded fiber matrix (BFM)  Equivalent performance to most erosion controlled blankets  Rough graded slopes  Enhancement of vegetation establishment To the best of our knowledge, the information contained herein is accurate. However, Profile Products cannot assume any liability whatsoever for the accuracy or completeness thereof. Final determination of the suitability of any information or material for the use contemplated, of its manner of use and whether the suggested use infringes any patents is the sole responsibility of the use r. Profile Products 2014© Profile Products LLC 750 Lake Cook Road, Ste. 440 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 800-508-8681 or +1-847-215-3464 www.profileproducts.com Physical Properties* Test Method Units Minimum Value Mass/Unit Area ASTM D65661 g/m2 (oz/yd2) > 393 (11.6) Thickness ASTM D65251 mm (in) > 4 (0.16) Ground Cover ASTM D65671 % > 98 Water Holding Capacity ASTM D73671 % > 1200 Material Color Observed n/a Green Performance Properties* Test Method Units Value Cover Factor2 Large Scale4 n/a < 0.05 Percent Effectiveness3 Large Scale4 % > 95 Cure Time Observed hours 24-48 Vegetation Establishment ASTM D73221 % > 600 Environmental Properties* Test Method Units Typical Value Functional Longevity5 ASTM D5338 n/a Up to 12 months Ecotoxicity EPA 2021.0 % 48-hr LC50 > 100% Biodegradability ASTM D5338 % 100 Product Composition Typical Value Thermally Processed Wood Fiber6 77 % Wetting Agents - including high-viscosity, colloidal polysaccharide based tackifier (>10% of total formulation) 18 % Crimped, Biodegradable Interlocking Fibers derived from plant sugars 2.5 % Proprietary Mineral Activator 2.5 % * When uniformly applied at a rate of 3500 pounds per acre (3900 kilograms/hectare) under laboratory conditions. 1. ASTM test methods developed for Rolled Erosion Control Products that have been modified to accommodate Hydraulic Erosion Control Products. 2. Cover Factor is calculated as soil loss ratio of treated surface versus an untreated control surface. 3. % Effectiveness = One minus Cover Factor multiplied by 100%. 4. Large scale testing conducted at Utah Water Research Laboratory and Texas Transportation Institute. For specific testing information please contact a Profile technical service representative at 800-508-8681 or +1-847-215-3464. 5. Functional Longevity is the estimated time period, based upon field observations, that a material can be anticipated to provide erosion control and agronomic benefits as influenced by composition, as well as site-specific conditions, including; but not limited to temperature, moisture, light conditions, soils, biological activity, vegetative establishment and other environmental factors. 6. Heated to a temperature greater than 380 degrees Fahrenheit (193 degrees Celsius) for 5 minutes at a pressure greater than 50 psi (345 kPa) in order to be Thermally Refined™/Processed and to achieve phytosanitization. Properties Test Method Units Nominal Value Bag Weight Scale kg (lb) 22.7 (50) Bags per Pallet Observed # 40 UV and weather-resistant plastic bags. Pallets are weather-proof stretch wrapped with UV resistant pallet cover. EcoMatrix DS 07/2014