HABITAT RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION PLA N

California High Speed Rail Authority Geotechnical Investigation

Los Angeles River Ranger District ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST

NOVEMBER 2015

WRITTEN BY:

/S/ KATIE VINZANT DAT E: NOV 2015 KATIE VINZANT USDA FOREST SERVICE ANF BOTANIST

REVIEWED BY:

DATE:

COMPANY TITLE

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

This document presents the Restoration Plan (RP) for the California High Speed Rail Geotechnical Investigation project on the Angeles National Forest (ANF), Los Angeles County, California. This RP was prepared for the ground disturbing activities associated with the geotechnical drilling sites E1-B1, FS-B1, and E3-B2 and is a requirement of the following applicable design features:

Invasive Plant Management Design Features 1. To limit the spread and establishment of invasive plant species, Vehicle and Equipment Washing Requirements will be implemented (Appendix A - Vehicle and Equipment Washing Requirements). 2. To prevent the spread of highly invasive yellowstar thistle, installation of an FS-approved vehicle washing station is required at the entrance of the Dillon Divide (3N32.1) road. 3. All plant material (e.g., straw, mulch, seeds, etc…) used for erosion control and/or road maintenance must be certified weed-free. Only weed-free rice straw or rice mulch is allowed. All erosion control material must be biodegradable. Wattles wrapped in “photodegradable” plastic will not be acceptable. 4. All fill material (soil, sand, gravel, rock) used for project activities must be from an ANF approved material site. 5. Monitoring for detection of new or expanding invasive plant populations must be conducted at all Project drill locations (with the exception of E1-B2) for two growing seasons after completion of the Project. Monitoring will be conducted within the road prism and five feet either side of the portions of the road utilized by the Project for two growing seasons after completion of the Project. On the Santa Clara Divide Road (3N17) this monitoring will focus on yellowstar thistle. On the Kagel Mountain Road (3N32.2) this monitoring will focus on yellowstar thistle and Spanish broom. If new infestations are detected, they must be eradicated. Eradication will be considered complete when the infestation is shown to be absent for two consecutive growing seasons. Based on site specific circumstances, ANF line officerS have the discretion to modify the period of time required for determining that eradication efforts are complete. The Project Restoration Plan includes a detailed description of the required restoration success criteria.

Soil and Water Design Features 6. All appropriate BMPs shall be implemented to minimize damage to surface soil structure and to reduce potential for erosion and sediment transport to drainages due to project activities. All ground disturbing activities with the potential for erosion must be consistent with FSH 2509.22 – Soil and Water Conservation Practices Handbook and Best Management Practices. 7. Ground disturbance will be limited to the minimum necessary. Parking/staging areas and disturbance boundaries must be marked with signs, staking, and flagging to keep construction activities confined to designated areas. 8. Project generated material will not be allowed to roll downslope. No sidecasting is permitted. 9. All equipment must contain appropriate spill containment kits to respond to leaks and spills. Personnel must have training on proper response to any type of hazmat situation. All hazmat situations must be reported to the Forest Hazmat Coordinator according to the Forest guidelines.

Restoration Design Features 10. Drill sites E1-B3 and E1-B2 will not require revegetation as long as disturbances are kept within the existing turnout area and debris disposal area, respectively. For drill sites E1-B1, FS-B1 and E3-B2, the objective is to restore the site to pre-project conditions once the project activities are complete. If this cannot be accomplished through natural regeneration, post-project revegetation will be required. Revegetation will be accomplished using locally collected native seed, according to the Forest Service-approved Restoration Plan. The Project Restoration Plan includes a detailed description of the required restoration success criteria. 11. Impacts to all oaks and native trees will be recorded regardless of size. This evaluation shall include the species and number of individuals, their diameter at breast height (DBH), location and potential impact type. Project activities within the driplines of all native trees and oak trees/shrubs, and incidental trimming or damage to trees shall not occur until the trees are evaluated by a qualified arborist. This person shall identify appropriate measures to minimize tree loss, such as the placement of fence around the dripline, padding vehicles, minimizing soil removal or addition around driplines, and the placement of matting under the existing dripline during construction activities.

Monitoring Design Features 12. All areas subject to ground disturbance from the Project activities must have their perimeters GPS’d and have representative photos of the site(s) taken upon project completion. These shapefiles and photos must be sent to the ANF botanist. 13. An FS-approved monitor will be present at the Dillon Divide site to monitor the vehicle washing station and ensure compliancy with the project requirements. The monitor will ensure the vehicle washing station is properly functioning and that all vehicles exiting the Dillon Divide work area are properly washed. The monitor must be present on all work days when project vehicles (including passenger vehicles) are entering the Dillon Divide work area.

2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The California High-Speed Rail Authority is proposing to conduct geophysical/geotechnical (GI) testing at five to eight locations within the ANF. Five sites have already been selected to investigate in-situ rock conditions and to measure groundwater pressures along the proposed tunnel alternatives. If additional drill sites are necessary (up to an additional 3 sites), they will have to be approved by the USFS prior to drilling. These test borings are needed to test site conditions in locations that lie in close proximity to the alternative alignments proposed by the Authority, or to help understand the geology in the vicinity of the alignment altenatives. The test borings will provide data to help evaluate potentially challenging conditions for tunnel design and construction at depth within the ANF by investigating groundwater pressures, hydraulic conductivity, and adverse geology, including faults, rock conditions, and squeezing ground. All proposed exploration sites will be drilled along forest roads accessible by a truck- mounted drill rig and all project activities will be managed by drive up access. Each exploration site has unique conditions that require site-specific layouts, water supply, delivery, and storage, drill pad footprint, equipment storage, and staging areas. Drill rig work areas are roughly rectangular shaped and ideally range from 80 feet by 30 to 40 feet on their sides but can be fit into smaller areas depending on site access limitations, type of drill rig mounting (i.e., truck mounted or track mounted) and options for equipment laydown. All support equipment will be stored on site adjacent to the drill site. The area of site operation is limited to 80 feet by 30 to 40 feet. Water will be delivered to the site by tanker trucks and stored in tanks nearby each drill site. These water bladders/tanks will be utilized for drilling purposes and any potential fire suppression. Water bladders/tanks will be located near the core hole site in a staging area for water storage. A temporary water line extending from staging areas located along forest roads will be designated for each site. Oversized casing (e.g. PWT or HWT, 5.5” and 4.5” Outer Diameter, respectively) will be used to over case the upper part of each borehole for stability. Core hole conditioning to retain drill fluid circulation or stabilize the borehole may require running casing, drill additives or grouting problem areas, and re-drilling. Drilling additives are used to help maintain hole stability, retard water loss from the core hole, and retrieve cuttings through fluid circulation to the surface. These materials are either inert or biodegradable and are designed for drilling water wells and exploratory geotechnical borings. Drilling fluids and cuttings will be collected as coring advances, then removed and legally disposed of off-forest. Chain of custody sheets on disposal will be maintained for project records. Drill cuttings will be contained and disposed offsite according to regulations for liquid waste disposal in accordance with environmental protection agency (EPA) requirements and USFS permit requirements. The core holes will be drilled and abandoned under any permits required and issued by the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health (County DPH), in accordance with Environmental Health, Bureau of Environmental Protections, Drinking Water Program, Requirements for Well Construction/ Decommissioning. The permits also include abandonment procedures for the core holes. Each core hole will be abandoned according to County of Los Angeles and State of California regulatory guidelines for well drilling and abandonment in accordance with the permitting agency, County DPH. No drilling will commence until required County permits have been approved for the drilling operation. The abandonment procedure includes grouting each of the core holes closed with a cement-bentonite grout mixture to close off hydraulic communication between different levels within each of the core holes (in accordance with Department of Water Resources Bulletins 74-81 and 74-90, and with the County DPH).

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At the same time, grouting that closes the core holes also grouts in place the pressure transducers at selected depths. The grout will be placed in each core hole using tremmie pipes to fill the hole with a cement-bentonite mix from the bottom of the core hole up to the base of the surface seal. At the surface, a 10- foot long seal of bentonite will be placed at the top of the hole for completion of the abandonment procedure. The duration of drilling is conservatively assumed to be up to approximately six months at each of the core holes. Upon completion of drilling activities, the core holes will be grouted completely closed and drill sites will be rehabilitated to pre- exploration condition, in accordance with the USFS Special Use Permit requirements. Piezometers or other monitoring instruments may be left in place for future monitoring. The five ANF locations selected for geophysical/geotechnical (GI) testing include the following:

E1 -B1 (T4N, R13W, Section 30)

Candidate E1-B1 is located on 3N17.7 Santa Clara Divide, approximately 0.85 miles east of the junction of 4N37 Indian Canyon Road and 3N17.7 Santa Clara Divide. The road is unpaved, and is approximately 20 feet wide at the proposed location, the core hole is positioned just north of the roadway in an open, relatively flat area that is part of a fuel break, approximately 110 ft southeast of the E1a/E1b Alternative alignment. The site is accessible by high clearance vehicles along 3N17.7. The ground surface elevation is approximately 4,900 feet. The core hole will be drilled vertically to the depth of the tunnel to evaluate rock conditions, conduct geophysical surveys, and measure in-situ water pressures. The core hole is anticipated to encounter medium to very coarse grained anorthosite and granite pegmatite and to a lesser degree diorite, norite and/or gabbro. In the San Gabriel Mountains sheared, shattered (fractured), and brecciated anorthosite and gabbro have been documented and may also be encountered at depth in the core hole.

E1-B2 (T3N, R14W, Section 16)

Candidate site E1-B2 is located just north of the intersection of 3N32.1 Mendenhall Ridge Road and Little Tujunga Canyon Road. A parking/staging area approximately 200 feet northwest of the gate to 3N32.1 Mendenhall Ridge Road is the proposed drilling location. The site is accessible by high clearance vehicles. The site is used by LA County road maintenance for stockpiling and borrowing earth materials. A potential conflict may exist for use of this site as a core hole site. Coordination with LA County is necessary to avoid potential conflicts. The area is large enough to accommodate drilling and is near a mapped fault within the San Gabriel Fault Zone. The core hole would be inclined approximately 60 degrees to the northeast to intersect a northern trace of the San Gabriel fault at depth for in-situ testing and instrumentation. In order to estimate a depth of the core hole, detailed geologic mapping would need to be completed in advance of confirming the surface location of targeted fault trace with respect to core hole location. Elevation at the core hole site is 2,755 feet and is anticipated to encounter predominantly granodiorite that may include Quartz Diorite, Lowe Granodiorite, and Wilson Diorite. These rocks are mostly massive, but it is also common to see gneissoid rock near contacts with older rocks and to see inclusions and pendants of gneiss and Placerita metasediments.

E1-B3 (T3N, R14W, Section 16)

This candidate is located on 3N32.2 Kagel Truck Trail, approximately 0.9 miles southwest of Little Tujunga Canyon Road. The road is unpaved, and is approximately 15 feet wide. A small work area approximately 30 feet by 20 feet adjacent to and north of the road positions the core hole approximately 300 feet northwest of the E1a/E1b Alternative Alignment. The site would require brush clearance and minor grading to enlarge the working area for the drilling and support equipment. There may be periods of time when Kagel Truck Trail may be partially blocked with equipment. The site is accessible by high clearance vehicles. The ground surface elevation is approximately 2,800 feet. The core hole is anticipated to encounter predominantly granodiorite that may include Quartz Diorite, Lowe Granodiorite, and Wilson Diorite. These rocks are mostly massive, but it is also common to see gneissoid rock near contacts with older rocks and to see inclusions and pendants of gneiss and Placerita metasediments. The core hole would be inclined approximately 60 degrees to the northeast to intersect a southern trace of the San Gabriel fault (De Mille fault) for in-situ testing and instrumentation. In order to estimate depth of the core hole, detailed geologic mapping would need to be completed in advance of confirming the targeted fault traces with respect to core hole location. Within the San Gabriel fault zone, dark Diorite gneiss including metadiorite, massive hornblende diorite and amphibolite and biotite schist may also be seen in the site vicinity. Because Kagel Truck Trail is used by the public for access to a hang-gliding site, traffic control measures such as signage will be necessary along the road to warn drivers of potential road blockage or equipment. A minimum road width of 12 feet will be maintained to allow traffic to pass freely.

E3-B2 (T3N, R13W, Section 4)

Candidate E3-B2 is located along 3N17 Santa Clara Divide, approximately 7 miles east of 4N37 Indian Canyon Road and 3N17 Santa Clara Divide. The ground surface elevation is approximately 5,005 feet south of this 20 foot wide unpaved road, where a relatively flat area provides ample work area for drilling. The flat area is a fuel break area and has been used as a fire fighting staging area in the past. This site is located approximately 975 feet southeast of the E3a/E3b Alternative Alignment. The site is accessible by high clearance vehicles. The core hole will be drilled vertically to the depth of the tunnel to evaluate rock conditions, conduct geophysical surveys, and measure in-situ water pressures. Like Alternate E3- B1, the core hole is anticipated to encounter predominantly syenite, a massive dark, augite to augite quartz syenite that weathers to a reddish colored rock at the ground surface. This rock type is present along significant portions of the E3a and E3b Alternative Alignments.

FS-B1 (T4N, R13W, Section 33)

Candidate FS-B1 is approximately 650 feet southwest of 3N17.7 Santa Clara Divide and approximately 750 feet over a ridge from the Pacific Crest Trail. This candidate is proposed to investigate a fault/shear zone that is located between the E2 and E3 Alternative Alignments and intersects these alternatives farther west along the fault contact. The core hole is near a helicopter pad at the Forest Service station at 3N17.7 Santa Clara Divide just north of 4N35 Pacoima Canyon Road/ S/N Fork Road, and is vehicle accessible by crossing the USFS station property. Available work area dimensions are approximately 80 feet by 30 feet. The ground surface elevation varies between approximately 4,205 feet to 4,214 feet at this location. The faulted contact of the syenite, a massive dark, augite to augite quartz syenite that weathers to a reddish colored rock is juxtaposed against anorthosite, a light-colored feldspar rich rock approximately 260 feet northwest of the site. The core hole would be inclined approximately 60 degrees to the northwest to intersect the Transmission Line fault separating the anorthosite from syenite rock and would be used for in-situ testing, groundwater pressure measurements, rock quality, and instrumentation. The purpose of the core hole is to measure the width of shearing associated with the fault, and to evaluate the rock quality and hydrogeologic conditions in association with the fault at depth.

3.0 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT Physical Landscape The San Gabriel Mountains are located within the central part of the 300-mile long, east-west trending Transverse Ranges Geomorphic Province. The San Gabriel Mountains are situated between San Bernardino and Castaic Mountains to the east and west, respectively. They are bounded on the north and south by the Mojave Desert and San Fernando Valley, respectively. The project site is within the western part of the San Gabriel Mountains. Here the mountains are characterized by east-west trending ridges (generally) above steep- walled canyons. The canyons provide surface water drainage to the north into Soledad Canyon/Santa Clara River, and to the south into the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles River, generally via Big Tujunga or Little Tujunga Canyons.

The San Gabriel Mountains form a basement massif that includes components of Pre-Cambrian to late-Cretaceous metamorphic and plutonic rocks. These are the oldest basement rocks in the Los Angeles area and appear to represent old continental crust at the western margin of the North American craton that has been thrust over Jurassic oceanic crust. The San Gabriel Mountains consist of two geologic terrains, the Mesozoic Pelona Schist (lower plate) and a complex of Precambrian to Cretaceous igneous and metamorphic rocks (upper plate), separated by the (inactive) Vincent thrust fault. The igneous rocks, which are generally exposed in the project area, are composed of granite, diorite and gabbro, and the metamorphic rocks are primarily gneiss. Along the west side of the project site layers of Tertiary-age sedimentary rocks (siltstone and sandstone) are present. The rocks are separated from the older igneous rocks by the southwest trending Soledad and Pole Canyon faults.

The igneous and metamorphic bedrock in the project area contain little to no porosity within the rock mass. The bedrock fractures and faults create voids within the bedrock that allow groundwater to reside and move through the rock mass 5 forming the San Gabriel Mountains. The water stored in the fractured hard bedrock moves down through fractures and where the fractures intersect a canyon wall or bottom, the groundwater will discharge at the ground surface as a spring or seep and join with surface runoff in streams. If the water intersects a less permeable rock mass or a fault along its path, the groundwater movement is interrupted and often redirected, perched or held behind the fault acting as a barrier to groundwater flow. The combined spring water and surface runoff water will enter the alluvial basins and recharge local water-bearing alluvium to the west, north, and south of the proposed tunnel corridor.

The San Gabriel Mountains have a Mediterranean climate, which is marked by hot dry summers and cool wet winters. The climate is also characterized by wide variability in precipitation from year-to-year and storm-to-storm. Individual rainfall events can also vary widely with intense storms delivering substantial precipitation in a few hours time. Other natural processes that have and will continue to influence the physical and biological landscape are fire and flooding, though the natural flooding regime has been greatly modified through the construction of dams.

Biological Landscape The type of vegetation present and the level of vegetation canopy cover varies between the sites. A brief description of the vegetation condition for each of the five sites is included.

E1-B2 This drill site is dominated by a 50-60% cover of predominately annual non-native species, dominated by shortpod mustard (Hirschfeldia incana), tumble mustard (Sisymbrium altissimum), tocalote (Centaurea melitensis), brome grasses (Bromus spp.) and yellowstar thistle (Centaurea solstitialis). No sensitive species were observed during the survey.

Native plant species observed at this location include the following: Eriogonum fasciculatum, Cercocarpus betuloides, Acmispon glaber, Salvia mellifera, Artemisia californica, Eriodictyon crassifolium, Phacelia cicutaria, Hesperoyucca whipplei, Mimulus aurantiacus, Adenostoma fasciculatam, Helianthus annuus, Ericameria linearifolia, Hazardia squarrosa, Datura wrightii, Chlorogalum pomeridianum, Pluchea sericea, Corethrogyne filaginifolia, Baccharis salicifolia, and Ambrosia psilostachya.

Weed species observed at this location include the following: Hirschfeldia incana, Salsola tragus, Centaurea solstitialis, Centaurea melitensis, Tribulus terrestris, Bromus diandrus, Bromus tectorum, Erodium cicutarium, Stipa miliacea, and Nicotiana glauca.

E1-B3 The vegetation community at this site is California buckwheat scrub. The site has a canopy cover of roughly 15-20% native species (dominated by California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasiculatum))) and 1-5% non-native species (dominated by cheatgrass). No sensitive species were observed during the survey.

Native plant species observed at this location include the following: Quercus agrifolia, Artemisia californica, Acmispon glaber, Phacelia campanularia, Eriodictyon crassifolium, Eriogonum fasciculatum, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Ceanothus crassifolium, Quercus wislizenii, Mimulus aurantiacus, Hesperoyucca whipplei, Pseudognaphalium stramineum, Corethrogyne filaginifolia, Acer macrophyllum, Cercocarpus betuloides, Marah macrocarpus, Prunus ilicifolia, Cuscuta californica, and Eriophyllum confertiflorum.

Weed species observed at this location include the following: Bromus tectorum.

E1-B1 The vegetation community at this site is California buckwheat scrub. The site has a canopy cover of roughly 60% native species (dominated by California buckwheat) and 1-5% non-native species (dominated by cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). No sensitive species were observed during the survey.

Native plant species observed at this location include the following: Eriogonum fasciculatum, Eriastrum densifolium, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Corethrogyne filaginifolia, Eriophyllum confertiflorum, Quercus wislizenii, Eriogonum baileyi, Ambrosia psilostachya, Hesperoyucca whipplei, Penstemon centranthifolius, and Eriodictyon parryi.

Weed species observed at this location include the following: Elymus ponticus, Erodium cicutarium, Bromus diandrus, Bromus tectorum, Hirschfeldia incana, and Sisymbrium altissimum.

E3-B2 The vegetation community at this site is chamise chaparral. The site has a canopy cover of roughly 30% native species (dominated by chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum)) and less than 1% non-native cover. No sensitive species were observed during the survey.

Native plant species observed at this location include the following: Eriogonum fasciculatum, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Penstemon grinnellii, Penstemon spectabilis, Melica imperfecta, Hesperoyucca whipplei, Cercocarpus betuloides, Corethrogyne filaginifolia, Ceanothus leucodermis, Eriodictyon crassifolium, Salvia columbriae, Arctostaphylos glauca, and Eriodictyon parryi.

Weed species observed at this location include the following: Bromus tectorum and Bromus diandrus.

FS-B1 The vegetation community along the temporary access route to the drill site is mixed conifer forest. The vegetation community at the drill site is mixed chaparral. The access route has a roughly 60-70% overstory canopy cover of conifers and 1-5% understory cover of non-native grasses. The drill site has a canopy cover of roughly 70-80% native species (dominated by chamise) and no non-native cover. No sensitive species were observed during the survey.

Native plant species observed at this location include the following: Adenostoma fasciculatum, Hesperoyucca whipplei, Arctostaphylos glauca, Eriogonum fasciculatum, Ericameria linearifolia, Penstemon centranthifolious, Eriodictyon parryi, Pinus coulteri (planted,) Eriastrum densifolium, Eriophyllum confertiflorum, Corethrogyne filaginifolia, Quercus berberidifolia, Eriodictyon crassifolium, Astragalus douglasii, Eriodictyon parryi, Pinus jeffreyi, and Juniperus occidentalis.

Weed species observed at this location include the following: Stipa miliaceum, Bromus tectorum, and Bromus diandrus.

4.0 PREPARATION METHODOLOGY OF RP Preparation of this RP follows management direction outlined in the ANF Land Management Plan (LMP) Part II LM2 Landscape Restoration and FH1 Vegetation Restoration Strategies (USDA 2005) and is intended to provide restoration/compensation for impacts to native vegetation communities on site that are damaged or removed in association with this project.

The sites were evaluated through the use of field visits and preconstruction biological surveys. The seed palettes, erosion control Best Management Practices (BMPs), and restoration methods were tailored to address the soil condition, slope, aspect, hydrology, and severity of impact within the site. The timing of seeding will be adjusted based on the seasonal weather patterns to reduce the need for supplemental irrigation. The maintenance and monitoring plan includes success/performance criteria, methods of controlling exotic species, and contingency measures should the success criteria not be met. The monitoring program is designed to track the progress of the restoration at each site so that proactive management can be applied to expedite successful revegetation.

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5.0 RESPONSIBLE PARTIES

California High-Speed Rail Authority (CHSRA) As the Applicant/Operator, CHSRA is ultimately responsible for the completion of any mitigation required. To best accomplish this, CHSRA may hire a Restoration Contractor to complete the work and a Restoration Ecologist to oversee the process and document the progress to the regulatory agencies.

Restoration Ecologist The Restoration Ecologist will be responsible for monitoring the implementation of this HRRP. The Restoration Ecologist will act as a liaison between the ANF Botanist, CHSRA, and the Restoration Contractor hired to install and maintain the restoration project.

Qualifications of the Restoration Ecologist. The Restoration Ecologist shall have at least five years of experience in Southern California native habitat restoration. The Restoration Ecologist should have managed restoration projects over an area comparable in size to this project that met the performance standards and that were released from maintenance and monitoring obligations by the appropriate resource agencies.

Restoration Contractor CHSRA may retain a Restoration Contractor to ensure that the restoration areas achieve the performance standards specified herein within ten years following the initiation of the contract. If these performance standards are not met within that time frame CHSRA shall be responsible for, any maintenance, supplemental seeding, or other remedial measures necessary to achieve the performance standards, until compliance is achieved. Qualifications of the Restoration Contractor. The Restoration Contractor performing the work described in this RP shall have successfully completed the installation and long-term maintenance of a minimum of three native habitat restoration projects, each over 5 acres in Southern California. The Restoration Contractor shall provide at least one English-speaking person familiar with these plans and specifications who shall be present at all times during execution of this work and shall direct all work performed as specified herein. This person shall be experienced with all aspects of the habitat restoration and thoroughly familiar with all species listed in this RP; all aspects of the Project, including equipment and materials being utilized or installed; and the best methods for their installation and application. All prospective Restoration Contractors shall provide resumes of their foremen and crew leaders, who must meet the above experience criteria and are subject to approval if positions are replaced.

ANF Coordination and Approval The ANF will be given a schedule of proposed implementation activities. The ANF will be consulted for approval of any of the key items of the plan and if any major changes are proposed. Small proposed non-time sensitive modifications will also be relayed to ANF for approval, and descriptions of minor changes that occur in the field will be sent to ANF and other concerned parties via field memos prepared following each site visit. Timely responses (i.e. 48 hours or less) to minor questions and approval will be needed for elements of the plan that require ANF input or approval.

6.0 SCHEDULE Restoration work is required to begin before project construction is initiated and should continue until success criteria are met. The pre- disturbance restoration work includes wash station setup. Upon completion of construction at each site the ANF botanist shall visit the site and determine if ground disturbance impacts were significant enough to warrant revegetation through application of native seed. It is likely, given that the sites are not to be graded, that revegetation efforts will not be necessary. In which case, only weed eradication (according to the performance standards listed below (Section 11.0)) will be required. However, if it is found that roots and topsoil are not left intact and weed species are prevalent, revegetation will be required. If deemed necessary, initiation of revegetation efforts shall begin shortly after construction is completed, during the next planting season (i.e. October 1 to December 15). The goal is to have all seed installation occur directly before the first heavy rains, usually between October 1 and December 15, to take advantage of precipitation and encourage better seed germination. Actual initiation of revegetation may be delayed if precipitation appears to be inadequate. The site will be regularly maintained and monitored, and progress will be presented to the ANF botanist through quarterly and annual reports. The typical schedule for restoration is provided below, if followed, restoration success criteria should be met in a timely manner.

Pre-construction  Wash Station Setup. Prior to equipment being brought into the project areas a wash station utilizing pressurized water must be procured and the Dillon Divide staging area identified. Construction

 Seed Collection. A custom native plant palette was created for the project. All seed shall be collected from the local genetic sources in the area. A complete discussion of the plant species to be used is located within the Materials section of the RP.  Construction Weed Abatement. During construction activities if non-native plant species begin to bolt or flower in areas disturbed by the project they shall be eradicated. All reproductive parts of the plants shall be cut, bagged, and disposed of in a landfill.  Wash Station Use. During construction the wash station shall be used in accordance with the ANF Weed Washing Protocol (Appendix A).

Post-Construction

 If deemed necessary, site preparation (e.g. decompaction) will be started immediately following construction completion.  If deemed necessary, hydroseeding shall occur after site preparation activities are completed. The seeding should be conducted between October 1 and December 15 to take advantage of the natural rainfall. Dependent on weather conditions, seeding may be appropriate earlier or later in the season. The ANF botanist will make the final decision if seeding dates outside of October 1–December 15 are proposed.  Maintenance and monitoring will start immediately following completion of restoration installation and will continue until the performance standards are met. Maintenance activities will be performed weekly to quarterly depending on the amount of weeding and watering required on site per Maintenance Section. Trend monitoring will be required during the spring of the fourth growing season after site preparation and seeding/planting and shall continue until the success criteria are met. CHSRA may conduct trend monitoring before this time if they so choose.  If construction is completed outside of the appropriate planting season, weed control shall be conducted until installation can occur.  Photos shall be taken at points that were established pre-construction and disturbance boundaries shall be GPS’d and given in a timely manner to the ANF project administrator and botanist.

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7.0 SITE PREPARATION

Site Preparation Steps:

#1: Non-Native Plant Removal. If construction activities are not completed between October 1 and February 1 it will be necessary to remove priority non-native plant individuals prior to any site disturbance, in order to ensure greater restoration success and limit the spread of noxious weeds. If construction activities occur outside of this time period and non-native plants are in a flowering or seeding stage they shall be carefully bagged, sealed, and taken to an approved disposal site off ANF lands.

#2: Decompaction. If the temporary disturbance area has been compacted by construction activities, it must be decompacted. If areas are determined to be compacted then various decompaction techniques will be utilized to loosen the soil to mimic undisturbed conditions. The techniques chosen will be subject to site specific conditions and accessibility and will be determined by an ANF botanist. The most common decompaction technique to be utilized will be ripping with tines (such as those on a bulldozer). Ripping will occur with dry soils, to an average perennial plant rooting depth (1-2 ft.), along the contour line of the site. If the topsoil was not removed from the site, but decompaction would be beneficial, then great care should be taken to not mix the topsoil with lower soil horizons. As with all sites, if there is a potential for erosion to occur, implementation of erosion control measures such as mulching, wattles, and jute netting will be required as well.

#3: Mycorrrhizal Inoculum and Nutrient Amelioration. There should not be a need for adding mycorrhizae or any other nutrients/fertilizers during the restoration of this project site. The use of mycorrhizae, fertilizers, and other nutrient ameliorations will not be allowed, unless first approved by the ANF botanist

#4 Erosion Control (NOTE: may occur at various stages as needed, including after seeding). The Restoration Contractor shall provide erosion control as necessary to prevent damage to the site and to prevent the transport of sediment off the site. Erosion may be controlled through vegetative and non-vegetative means. Vegetative means are discussed below under seeding. Non-vegetative means include punched straw mulching, coir fabric, jute netting, and rice straw wattles. Nonnative seed/vegetation will not be allowed for erosion control. The ANF botanist shall be consulted before installing erosion control products and all materials shall be weed free and biodegradable.

8.0 SEEDING/PLANTING MATERIALS Plant Source. All propagules for seed shall be collected from local genetic sources in the area. The use of site-specific materials, which are adapted to local conditions, increases the likelihood that the cuttings and seedlings will be successful and maintains the genetic integrity of the local ecosystem. For widespread herbaceous species that are more likely to be genetically homogeneous, seed collection areas may include a broader geographic range. As a general rule, native seed should be collected within the same HUC6 watershed as the disturbance location (or within a two to five mile radius) and within 500-1,000 vertical feet of the elevation of the site (Huber & Brooks 1993, Bainbridge et. al 1995, Erickson et. al 2003). Seed collecting zones may vary depending on the plant species being collected and availability of seed. Seed collection areas will be determined by an ANF botanist. No commercial seed will be accepted unless the collection source is local to the Project area and must be certified to be free of noxious weeds. If deemed necessary, the revegetation of the impacted areas will be accomplished though hydroseeding. Species may be substituted for or eliminated depending on the availability of appropriate genetic sources, with the consent of an ANF Botanist. Supply of seed material will be coordinated by the Restoration Ecologist and purchased by the CHSRA. Excess locally collected seed may be collected in order to perform supplemental seeding as necessary. An excess collection of up to 20% of what is originally thought to be needed for restoration is acceptable; collections over this amount will require the concurrence of the ANF botanist.

Seed Collection/Cleaning/Storage Methods. If revegetation is deemed necessary, coordination with a seed collection contractor will occur as soon as possible to ensure that seed material will be collected from sites as close to the restoration sites as possible. As stated above, in general seed should be collected within the same watershed as the disturbance location, within 500-1,000 vertical feet of the elevation of the site, and on the same aspect and soil type, in order to utilize seed that is best adapted to each sites microclimate variations. The ANF botanist will provide further details on exact seed collection areas for the different disturbance site locations. Table 1 shows the proposed list of seed required for the restoration areas. Total PLS pounds per acre is mandatory, whereas species utilized and their exact PLS poundage may be substituted or altered as agreed upon by the ANF Botanist. The native species present in the vicinity of the proposed restoration area was used as a reference for the proposed seed palette. Given that the total impact area for the project that is required for restoration is estimated to be 0.22 acres and the required total amount of seed per acre is 30 PLS pounds, at least 6.6 total PLS pounds of seed will be needed.

Seed collection methods, in addition to the location methodology listed in the paragraph above, that must be adhered to by the seed collection contractor are listed in bullet point below.

 For each species in a permitted seed mix, seed should be obtained from several (more than two) populations within the permitted collection area. A different population is defined here as two populations that have a very low chance of cross-pollinating with each other. In other words they are separated by distance or some type of geographical barrier. In order to make this determination it is often necessary to have some knowledge of the species’ main pollinator and its movement capabilities.  Seed must be collected from at least 35 different, well dispersed individuals in a population. A record will be kept of the estimated number of individuals sampled.  No more than 25 percent of the total seed of an individual can be taken, with the exception of areas that will have all vegetation removed by Project activities.  Significant damages (such as cut limbs or crushing) to the parent plant should not be incurred during seed collection.  Seed heads may be cut off just below the flower inflorescence; however cutting shears must be sterilized between Project areas to prevent disease spread.  Seeds must be mature at time of collection. This is highly dependent on the plant species and weather but in general runs from April through late December.  Dry seeds should be collected into bags, or plastic bins and then transferred into breathable (paper, cloth or poly) bags. Fleshy seeds should be collected directly into plastic bags.

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 Seed should be stored temporarily in a cool, dry (best to use desiccants) state in breathable (not plastic) containers and labeled with the species name, date collected, location collected (lat/long, UTMS), name of collector, average elevation, and Project name.  Care must be taken to avoid weedy areas in order to avoid seed contamination and the spread of non-natives.  Areas showing signs of vegetation type conversion to non-natives (i.e. greater than 100 sq. foot areas ocular estimated to have over 25-30 percent non-native canopy cover) shall not have seed/cuttings collected.  No off road vehicle driving is allowed for collection. Vehicles must stay on designated roadbeds that are not overgrown with vegetation.  Seed collection contractors must provide the ANF Botanist with a schedule of collection dates and locations and notify ANF of any changes to that schedule within 48 hours.  No seeds of federally listed Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, or Candidate species, nor Forest Service Sensitive, or Watch List plant species shall be collected.  Wildlife will not be killed, harassed, or touched at any time.  All trash and debris associated with collection activities will be bagged and taken off the ANF.  Before entering the ANF vehicles must be washed if they have driven off of paved roads. Vehicle washing shall include the wheels, undercarriages, bumpers, and grill portions of vehicles. Tools/equipment that have been utilized off ANF lands or in weed infested areas shall also be cleaned prior to moving to a different site.  The ANF may require a biological/botanical monitor to be on site for seed collection activities where impacts to threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and sensitive (TEPCS) species habitat or individuals is a concern or the permit involves the collection of large quantities of seed/cuttings (over 100 pounds). The specifics of this requirement will be detailed in the collection permit.  Collection of materials including but not limited to rocks, concrete, metal pieces, bottles, old cans, arrowheads, or any debris that is not generated by the seed/cutting collectors is prohibited. In addition, shoveling dirt or moving dirt is not allowed. If any archaeological or historical objects, features or artifacts (including bone) are discovered, these features will be avoided and field personnel collecting seed will contact ANF cultural resources staff.  Act appropriately to prevent, contain and immediately clean up hazardous material spills that could result from fuel leaks.  If collection occurs during E or EV Project Activity Level (PAL) days (see http://fsweb.angeles.r5.fs.fed.us/fire/PAL.shtml for more information) collectors shall ensure that they have the following fire suppression equipment on hand: fire extinguisher, 5-gallon backpack pump, shovel, and pulaski. After seed collection has occurred, seed must be cleaned of chaff and other vegetative parts, dried, and certified free of weed seed. It must then be stored properly, depending on the type of seed. Most seeds are best stored at cool temperatures (around 40F) in low humidity (6-7% moisture), but the individual seed preferences should be followed by the contracted storage facility.

Calculating Pure Live Seed. In addition to proper seed cleaning and storage, the quality of the collected seed must be assessed by calculating the percent of pure live seed (PLS). This value represents the percent of the gross seed weight composed of viable seeds. PLS is determined by performing both purity and germination tests. Purity tests determine the percentage by weight of 4 components 1) pure seeds of the desired species, 2) seeds of other species, 3) weed seeds, 4) inert matter (e.g. chaff, stems, small stones). A germination test involves taking at least 400 seeds from the pure seed component of the purity test, dividing them into replicates of 100 seeds each, chilling them for a pre-determined period and placing them in controlled germination chambers. At 7 day intervals, the number of seeds that have germinated (when all essential structures seem normal) are counted. The percentage of total (400) seeds that germinate is the germination percentage. Another method for determining germination percent that could be utilized is tetrazolium staining. The PLS of a particular seedlot is determined by multiplying the % of pure seed (from the purity test) by the % of germinating seed (germination test) and dividing by 100. In addition to the PLS, the overall purpose of calculating the purity and germination of a seedlot is to determine the number of viable (PLS) seeds per pound. In order to calculate the PLS/lb. the number of seeds in a pound is multiplied by the % purity and % germination. This PLS/lb value shall be used to determine the quantity (in lbs) of seed needed to meet seed sowing mix targets.

Seed Pre-Treatment for Germination. Many native plant species require some type of seed pre-treatment for germination to occur. Before seeds are introduced to the restoration sites the Restoration Ecologist and Contractor must insure that the seeds which require some sort of pre-treatment (which will not naturally occur on the site) for germination have indeed received that treatment. Standard methods for overcoming seed coat dormancy include scarification, stratification, soaking in hot/cold water, chilling, heating, exposure to different kinds and durations of light, chemical treatment, and combinations of these.

Table 1: E1-B1, FS-B1 and E3-B2 Seed Mix Scientific Name Common Name PLS Pounds/acre

Adenostoma fasiculatum chamise 3 Ambrosia psilostachya western ragweed 3 Corethrogyne filaginifolia cudweed sand-aster 1 Eriastrum densifolium giant woollystar 1

Eriodictyon crassifolium yerba santa 3

Eriogonum fasciculatum California buckwheat 12 Eriophyllum confertiflorum golden yarrow 1 Hesperoyucca whipplei chapparal yucca 4 Penstemon scarlet bugler/Grinnell’s centranthifolius/grinnellii penstemon 2 Total 30 PLS lbs.

9.0 INSTALLATION The recommended technique for revegetation on this project is hydroseeding.

Hydroseeding. Hydroseeding helps protect the seed from being blown away by the wind, eaten by birds, and helps trap limited moisture in the soil to promote germination of the seed. The hydromulch can also help provide some erosion control in the areas it is applied. However, hydroseeding has also been shown to accelerate erosion in cases where water has not been able to uniformly penetrate the hydromulch and has caused water to sheet into openings, which can then be blown out and rilled . Areas to be hydroseeded shall be seeded using a modified two-stage hydroseed application method. The modified two-stage method allows for better seed-to-soil contact that is required for good seed germination and will reduce the number of trips with the hydroseeding truck. Preventive measures must also be taken to avoid damage to 13 existing native vegetation, container plants, and cuttings (e.g., spraying and covering plants with mulch, breaking stems or branches with hoses). The application procedure is as follows:

First Application:  Specified seed mix combined with dispersal agent (type will vary depending on method used to apply seed to the site). Seed will be distributed in such a way as to assure all species in the seed mix are evenly distributed to assure even distribution of all species of seeds across the area, regardless of seed size.

Second Application:

 1,500 lbs/acre of long-strand wood fiber

 100 lbs/acre Ecology Control “M” binder

All hydromulch mixing shall be performed in a clean tank. The tank must be rinsed a minimum of three times in the presence of the Restoration Ecologist, to remove any seed that is not desired, such as ornamental seeds from a previous hydroseeding job. It is the Restoration Contractor’s responsibility to locate a washout area where rinsing can legally be carried out. The hydroseeder must be equipped with a built-in continuous agitation and recirculation system of sufficient operating capacity to produce homogeneous slurry and a discharge system that will apply slurry to the designated areas at a continuous and uniform rate. The ground surface of the area to be hydroseeded should be moist prior to hydroseed application to ensure seeds will stick to the soil.

The slurry preparation shall take place at the project area, where water source is available, and shall be started by adding water to the tank while the engine is running at half-throttle. Good recirculation shall be established when the water level has reached the height of the agitator shaft. The long-strand wood fiber shall be added when the tank is at least 30 percent filled with water. The Restoration Contractor shall commence spraying once the tank is full and homogeneous slurry has been created.

The Restoration Contractor shall spray designated areas with the slurry in a sweeping motion and in an arched stream until a uniform coat is achieved, with no slumping or shadowing, as the material is spread at the required rate. The hydroseed slurry should float down from the arched stream, as opposed to being shot directly at the ground. During hydroseeding, the container plants and existing native vegetation must be protected from damage (including, but not limited to, coating with mulch, damage by direct spray, and dragging hose). The tanks must be emptied completely during each stage of hydroseeding. Excessive mulch coating on container plants must be removed before the end of the day.

All cost incurred for repair or replacement of bare, sparse, or damaged areas during the maintenance and monitoring period shall be the sole responsibility of CHSRA. Following application, all activity on the mulch layer must be kept at a minimum.

10.0 MAINTENANCE The Restoration Contractor will be required to regularly monitor and maintain all restoration sites to ensure that levels of exotic species are kept low. Different levels of maintenance will be required depending on level of disturbance, and amount of nonnative weeds nearby.

180-Day Warranty Period Following installation of hydroseeding a 180-day warranty period will begin. At the end of this 180-day period all seeded areas shall be guaranteed to have uniform coverage. The Restoration Ecologist, Restoration Contractor, CHSRA and ANF Botanist will review the restoration sites and document any changes needed in order to meet the below criteria. Coverage following the 180-day warranty period shall not be less than 15 percent native plant coverage for any given area of 20 square feet or greater during a normal rainfall year. Any such areas having less than the required 15 percent coverage shall be reseeded by the Restoration Contractor. All supplemental seeding shall be coordinated by the Restoration Ecologist, CHSRA, and ANF Botanist for procurement by the Restoration Contractor.

Each time that seeding occurs at a restoration site a new 180 day warranty period shall begin in order to better ensure restoration success. Ten-Year Maintenance Period A critical component of the restoration plan, developed to mitigate the loss of biological value, is the maintenance of planted and seeded areas until the plants are established. The restoration areas will require regular maintenance during and following the 180-day establishment warranty period, consisting primarily of frequent inspection of the sites for erosion problems, weed invasion, browsing by herbivores, unhealthy or dying plantings, irrigation problems, and removal of trash and debris. These maintenance activities shall be the responsibility of the Restoration Contractor throughout the ten-year maintenance period or until the success criteria are met.

In general, maintenance shall include any activities required to meet the performance standards set forth in this HRRP. Maintenance shall include, at minimum, the following aspects for both 180 warranty and 10 year maintenance periods.

Erosion Control The Restoration Contractor shall provide erosion control as necessary to prevent damage to the restoration site and to prevent the transport of sediment off the site. Erosion may be controlled through vegetative and non-vegetative means. Vegetative means include the establishment of understory forbs and grasses. Non-vegetative means include jute netting and seed-free rice straw or coir wattles. Nonnative seed/vegetation will not be allowed for erosion control.

Protective Barriers for Restoration Sites Illegal OHV activity may cause serious, if not permanent delays in site restoration progress. If unauthorized OHV activity or potential activity, associated with access utilized for the Project, is located during or after construction of the Project it will be the responsibility of CHSRA to install and maintain temporary or permanent gates or barricades of some sort to prevent OHV activity in these areas. The type and placement of these barricades will be developed in conjunction with the ANF. Barriers will consist of large berms, large rocks, vertical mulching with cut vegetation, container plantings, and other methods determined by the ANF. In addition to the installation of barriers, CHSRA will conduct monitoring to assess illegal OHV access during regularly scheduled maintenance monitoring visits and coordination. If unauthorized OHV activity is found to be impacting restoration sites, CHSRA will work with the ANF to develop appropriate methods to minimize access and damage to the restoration areas in the form of improved or increased barriers or funding for ANF law enforcement patrolling.

Pest Control The control of insect and herbivore damage shall be the responsibility of the Restoration Contractor, using only those methods (exclusionary caging/fencing, deterrents, or other methods) approved by the Restoration Ecologist, CHSRA and the ANF Botanist. Container plants shall have herbivory cages put over them at the time of installation. Cages should be removed and properly disposed of off of ANF lands prior to restricting plant growth and when herbivory issues are no longer a concern. At the earliest sign of damage, the Restoration Contractor shall implement control measures that may require additional caging/fencing or some other deterrent. No poisons shall be used.

Pruning and Leaf Litter Dead branches and leaf litter provide habitat for a variety of species. Therefore, since the goal is to replicate a naturally occurring habitat, no pruning or leaf litter removal shall take place within the restoration areas. All dead branches shall be left on shrubs, trees, and herbaceous plant material. All leaf litter and fallen branches shall be left in place and not cleared away from the plantings.

Removal of Trash and Debris All planted and seeded areas shall be kept neat, clean, and free of all non-vegetative debris and trash. Prior to the completion of the project, the irrigation system shall be removed from the restoration areas that had one installed. The color-coded pin flags shall be removed following the 120-day establishment period.

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Weed Control (Outlined in greater detail in the ANF Herbicide Use and Guideline Document (Appendix B))

The Restoration Contractor shall remove all nonnative weeds from the restoration areas in order to help establish the developing plant community by reducing the competition for natural resources, including water, nutrients, and sunlight. Impact areas will be subject to weed control efforts until the performance standards are met. A listing of the known non- native, invasive plant species on the ANF can be found in Appendix C. If sites are re-disturbed by CHSRA after restoration efforts have begun they will still be subject to meeting the original performance standards. The amount of weeding required will be determined by the amount of weed seed in the soil, weather conditions, and the Restoration Contractor’s diligence in removing the weeds, thereby reducing the weed seed bank. An annual pre-weed removal meeting will be held in December or early January between the ANF Botanist, Restoration Contractor and Restoration Ecologist for at least the first four years following project construction to discuss weed control methods and schedules.

Following installation, weeds will be controlled through manual removal or herbicide use. These two methods are described in detail below. The control method used will depend on the weed species, location of weeds, and the time of year that weed operations occur. Installed plants and native vegetation shall not be damaged by weed control operations.

Regardless of the method of control, all weeds on site shall be removed prior to the development of seed to prevent the introduction of more weed seed into the soil seed bank. If weeds are not controlled before they reach a flowering or seeding stage they shall have these reproductive parts bagged in 3 mil or greater plastic, sealed to prevent seed dispersal and disposed of legally off site.

All equipment, tools, tires, and shoes should be cleaned by air, brush, or water before entering and after leaving the restoration site. Excess loose dirt and mud may spread noxious weed seeds from one area to another.

Surveying and monitoring for weed infestations in disturbance sites shall occur annually for years one to five and bi- annually for years six to ten or until the restoration performance standards are met.

Manual removal: Manual removal is the process of removing the entire portion (roots, stems, flowers, seeds) of a non- native species by hand. Hand removal of non-native species may include the use of small trowels, but not hoes unless approved by an ANF botanist, and care must be taken to ensure that the root systems of native plants, hydroseeding, or erosion control materials (e.g. mulch, jute netting) are not damaged in the process.

Herbicide removal: All herbicides used will be applied by a qualified individual in accordance with the Herbicide Control Goals and Guidelines attached as Appendix B of this document. The Restoration Ecologist will request approval from the ANF for use of specific herbicides for site specific populations.

Herbicide Treatment Guidelines: In order to purchase herbicide, the Restoration Contractor must have a Pest Control Business License or be in possession of a Qualified Applicator’s License (QAL). However in order to apply pesticides, a QAL is only necessary if restricted use pesticides are being utilized. In this project only general use herbicides are going to be utilized, therefore a Qualified Applicator is not required to be present when herbicides are being handled. Herbicide application will be limited to cutting and painting stumps, basal bark spray, or foliar or spot spray using backpack or ATV-mounted (for roads) sprayers. Herbicide will be applied according to the label instructions. A listing of the herbicides that are authorized for use and their effects on vegetation and wildlife is in Appendix A.

A brightly colored dye shall be used in all applications. The dye shall be a nontoxic, water-soluble, liquid material, such as “Blazon” by Milliken Chemicals or equivalent. The dye shall be mixed with the herbicide at no more than half the rate specified on the label (one-quarter the rate will usually suffice).

Spraying shall be conducted only when weather conditions are conducive to effective uptake of the herbicide by the targeted species (e.g., sunny, dry, and when plants are actively growing) and when wind conditions are such that herbicide drift is nonexistent. Applications of herbicide will not occur during or if a precipitation event is expected. During herbicide application, protection for non-targeted species is required. This is relevant to any native plants outside the restoration areas, as well as native plants within these areas. No herbicide will be used within ten feet of RCA areas. No herbicide will be stored on or near the ANF.

11.0 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS Performance evaluations will be based on the restoration areas developing a trend of vegetative cover, diversity, and species dominance that is similar to the naturally occurring habitat in adjacent areas of the project (described in the Existing Environmental Section 3.0).

The goal of this HRRP is the successful restoration of native habitats impacted during project construction and revegetation of impact areas with native species. Success will be based on the establishment of seeded species and the exclusion of non-native species. The restoration of the mitigation areas shall be considered successful when all of the following standards are achieved:

The following Performance Standards apply:  Canopy cover by native species at all revegetation sites shall attain a minimum of 15 percent cover during the180 day establishment period. See table below for required canopy covers of native and non-native species for years two, four, six and ten post construction. Site Native/Non-native Native/Non-native Native /Non-native Native /Non-native Percent Cover End Percent Cover End Percent Cover End Percent Cover End of Year 2 of Year 4 of Year 6 of Year 10 E1-B1 25/<10 40/<5 50/<5 60/<5 E3-B2 20/<1 30/<1 Site should already Site should already have reached have reached standard standard FS-B1 25/<5 40/<5 50/<1 70/<1

 Non-native perennials or annuals undocumented on the particular disturbance site prior to construction that may appear after construction, shall have a 0 percent cover after three years.  Regardless of the number of years post-construction, in order for success criteria to be considered complete, restoration sites must meet the final percent canopy covers for native and non-native species listed in the table above for two consecutive growing seasons without any weeding maintenance activities.  Prior to the agreement that performance standards are met, all restoration sites will be given a qualitative and quantitative assessment in accordance with the requirements listed in Section 13.0 (Maintenance and Trend Monitoring).  On the Santa Clara Divide Road (3N17) and Kagel Mountain Road (3N32.2) monitoring will be conducted within the road prism and five feet either side of the portions of the roads utilized by the Project for two growing seasons after completion of the Project. On 3N17 this monitoring will solely focus on yellowstar thistle. On 3N32.2 this monitoring will focus on yellowstar thistle and Spanish broom. If new infestations are detected, they must be eradicated. Eradication will be considered complete when the infestation is shown to be absent for two consecutive growing seasons.  Any oaks or native trees impacted by the Project shall be mitigated in full at the following ratios by the time the native and non-native canopy cover requirements have been met. Oaks/trees from 1 to 5 inches DBH shall be replaced at 3:1; trees from 5 to 12 inches shall be replaced at 5:1; trees from 12 to 24 inches shall be replaced at 10:1; and trees from 24 to 36 inches shall be replaced at 15:1. All planting locations, procedures, and results shall be evaluated by a qualified biologist and Forest Service botanist.

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CHSRA is responsible for supplemental planting and seeding to achieve these requirements, except in those instances where the failure of the restoration areas to meet the survival and cover requirements is due to something beyond CHSRA’s control (i.e., fire).

12.0 REMEDIAL MEASURES If at any time the restoration areas do not appear to be progressing towards the performance standards, the Restoration Ecologist shall document this deficiency, attempt to ascertain the source of the problem, and propose remedial actions in coordination with the ANF and CHSRA; the problem, the actions taken, and the results of said actions shall be documented in the annual reports. The purpose of remedial measures is to remedy unsuccessful restoration efforts. Remedial measures, as identified in the monitoring report, include weed eradication, increased herbivory protection, installation and maintenance of OHV barriers, and/or reseeding in areas as necessary to meet the performance standards. Such actions will be taken immediately upon the identification of problems (keeping in mind the correct seasonal timing for actions such as seeding) and will be implemented as often as necessary to meet the performance standards. In the event that seeding restoration methods cannot be done in the manner detailed in the Schedule Section 6.0 described above, weed eradication and soil erosion techniques will continue up to and until seeding is completed and the performance standards are met.

13.0 MAINTENANCE AND TREND MONITORING The Restoration Ecologist will monitor the site preparation and installation as necessary to ensure that procedures are implemented properly and thoroughly by the Restoration Contractor. Monitoring will consist of walking through all restoration sites and taking notes on restoration progress and/or setbacks. During the 180 warranty period after restoration installation the restoration sites should be visited every other week, if needed, in order to meet the performance standards for the warranty period (15% cover for seeded areas and non-required containers). During the 180 warranty period the Restoration Ecologist will submit a summary email of findings to the ANF botanist, CHSRA and the Restoration Contractor of the weekly restoration sites status. The 180 day warranty data must be collected after the majority of plants have reached a seeding stage (late June/July). After the 180 day warranty period, long term maintenance monitoring to ensure that weeding, seeding, and planting methods are being successful should be initiated. This maintenance monitoring should occur monthly during the growing seasons (February-July) and once during dormant seasons (August to January) of the first through second years after the 180 warranty period, every other month during the growing season and once during the dormant months for years 3, 4 and 5 and quarterly for years 6 through 10 or until the performance standards are met (Table 4). In addition to the maintenance monitoring, the Restoration Ecologist will also be responsible for conducting quantitative and qualitative trend monitoring (e.g. transects, photo points) to document the progress of the restoration until the performance standards have been achieved. These quantitative and qualitative monitoring details are detailed below and in the Documentation Section 14.0. Remedial measures, if necessary, will be formulated based on observations made during the site visits.

Table 4. Maintenance Monitoring Schedule for Restoration Success Criteria Milestone Monitoring Timeframe 180 Warranty Period Visited every other week depending on harshness of weather conditions Years 1after Warranty Period through Monthly visits during the growing season (February to July) and once in dormant Year 2 months (August to January) Years 3, 4 and 5 Visited every other month during the growing season and once during the dormant months Years 6 through 10 Visited quarterly (suggested in February, May, August, and November)

After the 180 day warranty has expired, statistical quantitative data will be collected in the spring of the fourth growing season after installation has occurred, in the months of March-April, before several rounds of weeding have been completed. Quantitative data for percent cover of native and nonnative vegetation, and height of shrub species, shall be collected using point- intercept transects. Specific quantitative data collection techniques and timing will be determined by the Restoration Ecologist and an ANF Botanist. The sample size required to acquire statistically significant data with limited false change and missed change errors will be determined based on a small pilot study at one or two representative sites. This pilot study will be performed by an ANF Botanist and the Restoration Ecologist during the third growing season after restoration installation. Once the sample size is determined, transects will be placed at randomly, computer generated starting points across a representative potion of the total restoration sites. After the first round of quantitative data assessment in the fourth growing season, the next round of analysis will occur as determined by the ANF Botanist and Restoration Ecologist. In general, the timing of this data collection should occur when either party feels the success criteria are nearing completion. Quantitative data analysis may also be required prior to the fourth growing season or afterwards if complications or concerns arise related to restoration site trends.

14.0 DOCUMENTATION

The Restoration Ecologist will prepare field memoranda (memos) following every site visit to record conditions and progress toward achieving the performance standards. Field memos will be sent to the Restoration Contractor, ANF Botanist, and CHSRA to ensure that any action items are handled in a timely manner.

The Restoration Ecologist will prepare an as-built report within 90 days following the complete installation of the restoration areas. The as-built report will document the materials installed and the methods of installation for each restoration area.

An annual report will be submitted by the Restoration Ecologist to ANF by August 1 of each year until the performance standards have been achieved. The annual reports will include the following as applicable to the succession of the restoration sites:

 Figures that depict all pertinent aspects of the restoration efforts (e.g., GPS’d disturbance perimeters, planting and seeding areas, transect locations, erosion control locations, detection of special status species, etc.)  Photographs that accurately depict site conditions from pre and post construction, the location of the photo point plotted on an aerial photograph or topo map of the project area  A summary of the field memos, providing a summary of the restoration effort and documenting any supplemental seeding  Documentation of the amount of invasive species removal that was necessary during the monitoring period to meet and/or maintain the nonnative species percent cover goal  A discussion of the success of the restoration project in creating a self-maintaining habitat and an evaluation of the ability of the site to resist future infestation by nonnative species  Discussion and analysis of effectiveness of unauthorized OHV control measures  Discussion and analysis of effectiveness of erosion control measures  Results of quantitative studies (after fourth growing season) and quantitative comparisons of current restoration site conditions with preconstruction conditions and previous restoration monitoring results

The final annual report will serve as the Notification of Completion and will request confirmation from the resource agencies that restoration is complete. Maintenance and monitoring activities shall continue until confirmation is obtained from the ANF (within 120 days). The as-built report and all annual reports, including the final report, will be submitted to ANF and CHSRA.

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15.0 REFERENCES Bainbridge, D. 2007. A Guide for Desert and Dryland Restoration: A New Hope Arid Lands. Island Press. Washington D.C.

Bainbridge, D., R. MacAller, and M. Fidelibus. 1995. A Beginner’s Guide to Desert Restoration. Department of the Interior Publications and Graphic Design Branch. NPS D-1072

Bainbridge, D. 1993. Soil Compaction: A Critical Problem in Land Restoration. Land and Water, Vol. 37, pgs. 42-43.

Bardgett, R. and D. Wardle. 2010. Aboveground-Belowground Linkages: Biotic Interactions, Ecosystem Processes, and Global Change. Oxford University Press.

Bell, Carl and Dean Lehman. 2005. Best Management Practices for Vegetation Management. Los Angeles County Weed Management Area. Los Angeles, CA

California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC). 2006. California Invasive Plant Inventory. Berkeley, California: California Invasive Plant Council. February 2006. Available:

California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 1995. A Manual of California Vegetation. CNPS Publications Committee, 1995.

Erickson, V.J., J. Wood, and S.A. Riley. 2003. Guidelines for Revegetation of Invasive Weed Sites and Other Disturbed Areas on National Forests and Grasslands in the Pacific Northwest. United States Department of Agriculture:Forest Service. Pacific Norhtwest Region

Hickman, J.C. 1993. The Jepson Manual, Higher Plants of California.University of California Press. Berkeley, CA.

Holland, R.F. 1986. Preliminary Descriptions of the Terrestrial Natural Communities of California. California Department of Fish and Game, Nongame Heritage Program.

Houck, M.A. 2009. Understanding Seeding Rates, Recommended Planting Rates, and Pure Live Seed (PLS). Technical Notes from Natural Resources Conservation Service. July 2009.

Huber, L.S. and P.J. Brooks. 1993. Native Seed Collection Guide for Ecosystem Restoration. Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.

Newton, G.A. and V.P. Claassen. 2003. Rehabilitation of Disturbed Lands in California: A Manual for Decision Making. California Department of Conservation, California Geologic Survey.

Riverside-Corona Resource Conservation District. 2012. Native Plant Materials Program: Native Plant Profiles. Available online: http://www.rcrcd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=88&Itemid=190

Rogers, D.L. and A.M. Montalvo. 2004. Genetically Appropriate Choices for Plant Materials to Maintain Biological Diversity. University of California. Report to the USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region, Lakewood, CO. Online: http//www.fs.fed.us/r2/publications/botany/plantgenetics.pdf

Sawyer, J. O., and T. Keeler-Wolf. 1995. A Manual of California Vegetation. California Native Plant Society. Sacramento, CA.

Steinfeld, D.E., S.A. Riley, K.M. Wilkinson, T.D. Landis, and L.E. Riley. 2007. Roadside Revegetation: An Integrated Approach to Establishing Native Plants. Technology Deployment Program, Western Federal Lands Highway Division. Vancouver, WA.

Tongway, D. and J. Ludwig. 2011. Restoring Disturbed Lands: Putting Principles into Practice. Island Press.Washington D.C.

Tu, M., Hurd, C. and J.M. Randall. 2001. Weed Control Methods Handbook, The Nature Conservancy, http://tncweeds.ucdavis.edu, version:April 2001.

USDA. 2005. Land Management Plan, Part 1 Southern California National Forests Vision. Pacific Southwest Region, Forest Service. Online: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/scfpr/projects/lmp/docs/part1.pdf.

USDA. 2005b. Land Management Plan, Part 2 Angeles National Forest Strategy. Pacific Southwest Region, Forest Service. Online: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/scfpr/projects/lmp/docs/angeles-part2.pdf.

USDA. 2005c. Land Management Plan, Part 3 Design Criteria for the Southern California National Forests. Pacific Southwest Region, Forest Service. Online: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/scfpr/projects/lmp/docs/part3.pdf. USDA. 2005d. FSH 2509.22 – Soil and Water Conservation Practices Handbook. Supplement to the Forest Service Handbook, Angeles National Forest. Online: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/scfpr/projects/lmp/docs/anf-fsh2509-22-supp.pdf. Site visited March 20, 2006.

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APPENDIX A: Vehicle and Equipment Washing Requirements

Equipment Cleaning Forest Service policy provides direction regarding implementation of noxious weed control measures for activities with potential to spread invasive plants (FSM 2900, 12/05/2011). In response to FSM 2900, the following guidelines will be adhered to for all ground disturbing and vegetation treatment projects:

Prior to entering Forest Service Land: 1) All tools and all equipment will be cleaned prior to entering Forest Service land. This includes all ground disturbing and vegetation removal tools and project vehicles and equipment. Washing of equipment and vehicles must include tires/tracks, wheel wells, bumpers, fuel/skid pans, undercarriages or any equipment other than personnel transport vehicles. All tool/equipment washing will occur in a manner that will not further enhance the spread of invasives through improper disposal of rinse water. 2) Holder shall notify Forest Service at least 2 working days prior to moving each piece of equipment on to National Forest Land, unless otherwise agreed. Notification will include a Certificate of Cleaning Equipment. Upon request of Forest Service, arrangements will be made for Forest Service to inspect each piece of equipment prior to it being placed in service. This requirement for notification does not apply to handheld equipment and tools. 3) The Certificate of Cleaning Equipment will include a record of the following:  Location where equipment was washed  Date and time  Methods used  Staff present  Equipment washed  Signature of responsible crew member  All equipment wash must have an accompanying photograph

Vehicle Washing Stations Located at the Project Site:

4) A FS approved vehicle washing station will be installed at the entrance of the Dillon Divide Road (3N32.1). 5) All project vehicles (including passenger vehicles) and equipment exiting the Dillon Dive road must be cleaned before leaving (washing at the site is not required upon entering). Required cleaning includes dry brushing and a wet wash at the FS approved washing station. 6) At the wash station, equipment must be dry washed before washing with water. Bumpers, wheel wells, tires/tracks must be brushed without using water. This will be done at the wet wash station location. 7) After vehicles and equipment are dry washed, they must be washed with water for a minimum of 6 minutes. Ideally vehicles and equipment will be washed with water for 10 minutes. Washing will include undercarriages, bumpers, wheel wells, tires/tracks and fuel/skid pans. 8) All washing done at this site must take place where rinse water and debris is appropriately filtered or otherwise collected and disposed of in either a sanitary sewer, landfill or other authorized facility off ANF lands. 9) A FS approved monitor will be present at the Dillon Divide site to monitor the washing station and ensure compliancy with the project requirements. The monitor will ensure the vehicle washing station is properly functioning and that all vehicles exiting the Dillon Divide work area are properly washed. The monitor must be present on all work days when project vehicles (including passenger vehicles) are entering the Dillon Divide work area.

APPENDIX B: ANF HERBICIDE USE AND GUIDELINES

Weed Control Goals and Objectives

The main goal of this document is to outline measures for project proponents to control the spread of invasive plants in their associated construction/restoration sites in the Angeles National Forest (ANF) through the use of herbicide treatment prior to seed formation and maturation. The implementation of these measures will prevent the transport of seeds or viable plant materials from infested areas during project activities and allow for successful native vegetation recovery in the disturbed construction areas. This guidance document outlines the procedures for conducting herbicide applications to control the designated weed species with the goal of expediting the restoration requirements.

The objectives of this guidance document are to treat invasive plant populations that: are rated High or Moderate for negative ecological impact in the California Invasive Plant Inventory Database (Cal-IPC, 2006); and aid and promote the spread of wildfires (such as cheatgrass [Bromus tectorum], mustard [Hirschfeldia incana], and Russian thistle [Salsola tragus]); and are considered by the ANF as species of priority in their ability to severely diminish native vegetation recovery in disturbed lands.

Herbicide control should also focus on identifying the effectiveness of the treatments each year. If control of weed populations is not being achieved at a particular project site or for a particular species, control strategies should be adjusted based on the success of other sites, in accordance with USFS permit conditions. This adaptive management strategy allows for methods of control to be modified throughout the program based on observed results. Weed control efforts will continue until project success criteria are met in accordance with project Habitat Restoration and Revegetation Plans, Mitigation and Restoration Plans or approved modifications to the project restoration plans.

INVASIVE PLANT TREATMENT EA AND REQUIRED DESIGN CRITERIA In 2013 the Angeles National Forest completed the Invasive Plant Treatment Project Environmental Assessment (USDA 2013), which allows for the use of herbicides on non-native, invasive plants. The specific areas covered by this Invasives Environmental Assessment (EA) include all National Forest System lands within the Santa Clara Watershed, shown in Figures 1 and 2. In the Invasives EA all non-native plant species are subject to herbicide treatments with Forest Service approval. However, some of the main invasive plants that are colonizing the restoration sites are: tocalote (Centaurea melitensis), yellow star thistle (Centaurea solstitialis), perennial pepperweed (Lepidium latifolium), mustards (Hirschfeldia incana, Sisymbrium altissimum, Brassica nigra, etc.), sweetclovers (Medicago and Melilotus spp.), redstemmed filaree (Erodium cicutarium), bromes (Bromus sp.), and schismus grass (Shismus spp.). Yellow star thistle and perennial pepperweed are of particular importance to treat as they are not found anywhere else on the ANF or in surrounding areas. It is imperative that these limited populations be eradicated as soon as possible while feasible and affordable control methods are still achievable. The other species listed above are also adept at displacing native vegetation after disturbance, eventually leading to vegetation type conversion and hindering the completion of restoration performance criteria.

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Figure 1. West Side

Figure 2. East Side

The five herbicides available for use on these restoration sites are glyphosate (e.g. RoundUp, Ranger-Pro), clopyralid (e.g. Transline), chlorsulfuron (e.g. Telar), aminopyralid (e.g. Milestone) and imazapyr (e.g. Habitat). All five of these herbicides are rated as hazardous chemicals, not as restricted use chemicals (which have greater use regulations and are more toxic), and are regarded as only slightly toxic to mammals and birds after repeated exposure and high doses. These five herbicides were chosen because of their effectiveness in controlling specific target plants while being some of the safest herbicides available for invasive plant treatment in natural areas. The Invasives EA allows for several types of herbicide application (i.e. foliar spray, cut stump, hack and squirt, basal bark spray, and stem injection) with the exception of application as a pre-emergent.

Herbicides generally need to be applied with an adjuvant. There are several types of adjuvants including surfactants, non- foaming agents, and colorants. A surfactant, or surface-acting agent, is any compound added to an herbicide formulation or tank mixto facilitate and enhance the absorbing, emulsifying dispersing, spreading, sticking, wetting, or penetrating properties of herbicides. Surfactants are similar to detergents in their action, reducing water surface tension to allow wetting and penetration of the plant tissues. The surfactant helps to achieve optimum herbicide absorption onto the plant. Surfactants may also improve an herbicide’s efficiency so that the concentration or total amount of herbicide required to achieve a given effect is reduced. This can reduce overall implementation costs, sometimes as much as five or ten-fold (Tu et al. 2001). In some cases, the herbicide would already have the surfactant included, but in other cases, it would be necessary to add one. A range of dilution rates for nonylphenol polyethoxylate (NPE) based surfactants of 0.25 to 2.5 percent and a typical dilution rate of one percent are authorized in the Invasives EA.

Defoamers are used to reduce the foaming that might occur during agitation of the spray mixture.

Colorants can be added to herbicide solutions to enable spray crews to see where they have sprayed

25 after initial evaporation of the solution. Hi-Light Blue® dye (or a similar biodegradable colorant) to facilitate visual control of application are acceptable colorants. This colorant is a water soluble dye and contains no listed hazardous chemicals. It is considered virtually non-toxic to humans (Bakke 2007).

Herbicide treatment will comply with local, state and federal pesticide laws and regulations including Forest Service policies, and would be applied strictly in accordance with the label directions (BMP 5-8). At a minimum, only certified personnel or those under the supervision of a certified applicator would be allowed to use restricted-use pesticides (FSM 2154.2; USFS 1994b). Table 1 summarizes the active ingredients, examples of brand names, properties, and general uses of the herbicides that are included as part of the proposed action. All herbicides considered under the proposed action have human health and ecological risk assessments that are posted on the Forest Service website (http://www.fs.fed.us/foresthealth/pesticide/risk.shtml).

Table 1. Herbicides considered for use, including examples of trade names, and how they affect plants. Active Ingredient, examples Properties General uses/known to be of brand names, action effective on: Aminopyralid Selective systemic herbicide. Use for annual, biennial, and (e.g. Milestone®, Milestone VM®) perennial broadleaf species. Mimics natural plant hormones. Chlorsulfuron Absorbed by the leaves and Use for broadleaf species and (e.g. Telar® DF, Glean®, translocated throughout the plant. grasses. Particularly effective on perennial Corsair ™ pepperweed. Inhibits amino acid synthesis. Glyphosate A broad spectrum, non-selective, Most effective on perennial plants (e.g. Accord®, Roundup®, translocated herbicide. when applied in later summer and Aquamaster®, Rodeo®) Translocates to roots and fall, when plants are entering Inhibits 3 amino acids and protein rhizomes of perennials. While dormancy (e.g. arundo). synthesis. considering non-selective, Some products have been sensitivities do vary depending on approved for aquatic species. environments and can be used Adheres to soil, which lessens or when surface water is retards leaching or uptake by nontargets. present(e.g. Aquamaster®, Rodeo®). Re-application is often necessary to treat persistent (‘hard to control’) broadleaf species. Imazapyr Broad-spectrum, non-selective, Used for annual and perennial (e.g. Aresenal®, Chopper®, pre- and post-emergent grasses, vines, brambles, and Stalker®, Habitat®) herbicide.* broadleaf species (e.g. tamarisk). Amino acid synthesis inhibitor. Most effective as a postemergent. Habitat® been approved for Low potential for leaching into aquatic environments and can be ground water. Has low toxicity to used when surface water is invertebrates and is non-toxic to present. fish, mammals, and birds. It can damage non-target plants, by transfer between root networks. Triclopyr Selective systemic herbicide. Use to control woody and (e.g. Garlon®, Access®, Renovate herbaceous broadleaf plants (e.g. 3®) tree-of-heaven). Has little or no Mimics the plant hormone auxin, impact on grasses. causing uncontrolled plant growth. Product(s) has been approved for aquatic environments and can be used when surface water is present. * Though imazapyr in general, can be used as a pre-emergent herbicides, this treatment method would not be used for Alternative 2. As noted earlier, no herbicide would be used as a pre-emergent.

Herbicide removal activities will avoid impacts to all special status plants and wildlife and other resources by employing the design criteria below. Invasive plant removal activity locations, timing, techniques, and success will be documented on GPS devices and entered into Forest Service databases (e.g. FACTS, NRIS, WFRP).

Project Design Criteria for Herbicide Invasive Plant Removal General 1. An annual pre-operations briefing will be required prior to treatment between the project manager and personnel implementing the project. ANF botany and permit administrator staff will also be invited. The briefing will include a review of sensitive resource locations, the identification characteristics of sensitive resources that could be found in the project area, and all operational details (including safety issues, locations, timing, treatment methods, herbicides approved for use, law enforcement coordination needs, awareness of other project activities in the area, wilderness rules [e.g. Forest Plan, ANF S2, part 2, p. 79], etc.). Protective measures (e.g. use of personal protective equipment, proper worker hygiene practices, proper handling of the herbicide, safety protocol in the event of a hazardous spill) will be emphasized with the use of all herbicides, especially for woman of child bearing age. If triclopyr is used, there will be an additional discussion on toxicity. Additional briefings will occur throughout the implementation period to ensure the treatments comply with the project design.

2. Select existing hardened surfaces or disturbed sites for staging areas. Just prior to treatment, mark points of access, parking, and treatment areas in resource sensitive areas with signs, staking, and flagging to keep project activities confined to designated areas.

3. The Herbicide Transportation, Handling, and Emergency Spill Response Plan and spill kit will be on-site when herbicide treatment methods occur. This Plan will include reporting procedures, project safety planning, methods of clean-up of accidental spills, and information including a spill kit contents and location as noted in Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2150 (USFS 1994b), Pesticide-Use Management and Coordination and Handbook (FSH) 2109.14, and Pesticide-Use Management and Coordination Handbook (USFS 1994a). At a minimum, the Plan will include: a) No more than daily use quantities of herbicides will be transported to the project site. The exception is for crews staging in remote locations in wilderness areas. Under these circumstances, they can bring sufficient quantities of herbicides to last for the planned duration of the field work (i.e., multiple days). b) Equipment used for transportation, storage, or application of herbicides will be maintained in a leak- proof condition. c) Herbicide containers must be secured and prevented from tipping during transport. d) To reduce the potential for spills, impervious material, such as a bucket or plastic, will be placed beneath mixing areas in such a manner as to contain any spills associated with mixing/refilling. e) No herbicide application will occur if precipitation is occurring or is imminent within 24 hours or as required by the label. In uplands, immediately upslope of occupied or critical unarmored threespine stickleback, arroyo toad and red-legged frog habitat, this restriction is increased to 48 hours for use of triclopyr BEE formulations. f) Immediate control, containment, and cleanup of fluids and herbicides due to spills or equipment failure (broken hose, punctured tank, etc.) will be implemented. All contaminated materials will be disposed of promptly and properly to prevent contamination of the site. All hazardous spills will be reported immediately to the Forest Hazardous Spill Coordinator. g) Herbicide spray equipment will not be washed or rinsed within 150 feet of any body of water or stream channel. All herbicide containers and rinse water will be disposed of in a manner that would not cause contamination of waters (Best Management Practices [BMP] 5-111). h) Mixing and loading of herbicide(s) will take place a minimum of 150 feet away from any body of water or stream channel unless prior approval is obtained from a Forest Service hydrologist or biologist in special cases where it is more safe.

1 Best Management Practices http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r5/landmanagement/resourcemanagement/?cid=stelprdb5352584

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i) Wellhead Protection2 a) Except as provided in subsection (b), the following activities shall be prohibited within 100 feet of a well (including domestic, municipal, agricultural, dry, monitoring, or abandoned wells): 1. mixing, loading, and storage of pesticides. 2. rinsing of spray equipment or pesticide containers. 3. maintenance of spray equipment that could result in spillage of pesticide residues on the soil. 4. application of preemergent herbicides. b) Wells shall not be subject to the requirements in (a) if they are: 1. sited so that runoff water from irrigation or rainfall does not move from the perimeter of the wellhead toward the wellhead and contact or collect around any part of the wellhead including the concrete pad or foundation;or 2. protected by a berm constructed of any material sufficient to prevents movement of surface runoff water from the perimeter of the wellhead to the wellhead. (c) Application of pre-emergent herbicides shall be prohibited between the berm and the wellhead (None are being proposed).

4. If foliar/spot spraying application is required, the following techniques will be used to minimize drift (BMP 5- 13): a) Label directions regarding wind speed and temperature will be followed. b) Within 25 feet of occupied or Critical Habitat for unarmored threespine stickleback,red-legged frog, or arroyo toad habitat, herbicides will not be sprayed when winds are greater than 5 miles per hour (mph) if label instructions do not address wind speed or allow application during higher wind velocities. In all other areas, spray applications up to 10 mph is acceptable as long as this is consistent with label directions. c) Within Riparian Conservation Areas, herbicides will only be sprayed in a downward direction. If target plants are taller than three feet, the plants will be laid down and sprayed (bend and spray).

5. Only the aquatically labeled formulations of glyphosate, imazapyr, and triclopyr (e.g. Habitat,® Aquamaster,® Renovate 3®) and low-risk aquatically approved surfactants (e.g. Agri-Dex®, Class Act® NG®, Dyne-Amic®, Competitor®)3 will be allowed within 100 feet of the banks of ponds, flowing rivers and tributaries. The surfactant polyethoxylated tallow amine or polyoxyethyleneamine (POEA) cannot be used in this buffer. Chlorsulfuron can only be used beyond 25 feet from a water body or flowing stream edge to protect aquatic plants. Aminopyralid has no restriction in the 100- foot buffer as long as treatment is completed outside of the unarmored threespine stickleback, arroyo toad,and red-legged frog spawning or breeding season and other design features are followed. Due to the potential for impacts to aquatic species,Triclopyr BEE (eg. Garlon 4®) will not be used in the floodplain4 of any intermittent or perennial stream.

6. Vehicles and all equipment must be washed before entering project sites. Should vehicles travel through or park in invasive plant infestations, the vehicle must be washed for a minimum of six minutes (USFS 2008) before entering the project area (e.g. at a car wash with the undercarriage option). This includes wheels, undercarriages, bumpers and all parts of the vehicle. Equipment must have all vegetation and seeds removed prior to exiting project site (i.e., all tools such as chain saws, hand clippers, pruners, etc must be visually inspected before entering and leaving all project sites) or placed in an enclosed area (e.g. back of an enclosed truck or a bag) and cleaned off-project site. All cleaning must take place where rinse water is collected and disposed of in either a sanitary sewer or a landfill.

2 California Code of Regulations (Title 3. Food and Agriculture) Division 6. Pesticides and Pest Control Operations 3 R-11 surfactant has a higher risk of adversely affecting aquatic wildlife species. 4 A floodplain is flat or nearly flat land adjacent to a stream or river that experiences occasional or periodic flooding.

7. To reduce seed spread, disposal of invasive plants removed will be as follows: If flowers or seeds are present and have the potential for the seed to be widely dispersed during treatment (e.g. Spanish broom, eupatory), remove the flowering head and place in container. Then treat and if necessary remove the plant, and place in an appropriate container for disposal.

8. Transport of removed invasive plants with seeds or vegetative propagules will occur in enclosed disposal containers or in an enclosed vehicle.

9. Invasive plants to be disposed of off-site will be taken to a facility (i.e., landfill) that contains the disposed items.

10. Efforts will be made to insure that seeds and/or vegetative propagule of invasive plants will be removed from clothing and equipment prior to leaving treatment sites.

11. All trash generated from this project will be collected and properly disposed of on a daily basis. Upon completion of the project, all unused material and equipment shall be removed from the site.

12. Pets shall not be allowed on-site during treatment.

Worker and Public Safety 13. Recently herbicide treated areas should not be reentered, at a minimum, until the herbicide has dried. If the herbicide label specifies a reentry period or restricted entry interval, treated areas must be posted with signs warning visitors and others not to enter the treated area. The signs should indicate that the area has been treated with an herbicide, what materials were used, and the name and telephone number of a contact person.

14. In areas in which members of the general public might consume vegetation/fruit where herbicides are intended to be used, the edible vegetation/fruit will be cut prior to being treated with herbicide. The intent is to reduce the risk of the public consuming herbicide treated vegetation/fruit.

15.Triclopyr TEA formulation (e.g. Garlon 3®), will only be used in cases where there is no other approved herbicide that has been shown to be effective and efficient in treating a specific invasive plant species.

16. In treatment areas with Special Use permittees permitted to raise bees for honey, permittees will be notified in advance of any herbicide treatment so bees can be moved or covered if the permittee desires.

17. Temporary public use closures may be required in permitted in areas where the public and workers commingle and the herbicide label requires it. The District Ranger will monitor potential conflicts and act accordingly.

Biological Resources Special Status Plant Species (Federally Listed Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, Candidate Species and Forest Service Sensitive Species)

18. If a new federal threatened, endangered, proposed or candidate plant location is found during pre-project surveys or while the project is being implemented, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will be notified. If the proposed treatment will affect listed species, consultation will be initiated immediately. Until consultation is complete, no foliar or spot spraying will be allowed within 100 feet of the occurrence; non- foliar and non-spot herbicide treatments (e.g. hack and squirt, cut stump, etc.) will be allowed no closer than

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25 feet of these species. These buffers will remain in effect until consultation with the US Fish and Wildlife Service is completed and the final treatment prescription is developed.

19. All Forest Service sensitive plants will have a 5 to 70-foot buffer. The buffer size will be determined based on: (1) phenology at time of treatment; (2) rareness and imperilment of species; (3) vulnerability to herbicide being used; (4) the concentration of herbicide; and/or (5) environmental conditions and terrain. Prior to project implementation, the District Resources Officer, with input from specialists, will review all information, including any new information, and develop buffers that will minimize effect to Forest Service sensitive plant species to negligible or minor.

20. Nevin’s barberry is known to occur in San Francisquito Canyon, within the project area. In some areas, tamarisk (Tamarix sp.) is growing intermixed with Nevin’s barberry individuals. In this case, manual removal and cut/stump with glyphosate are the only options. For manual removal, tamarisk must be cut at the base as close to the soil level as possible. For best results, this cutting should happen every three months. Cut/stump glyphosate treatment is the only herbicide treatment that can be used within 100 feet of a Nevin’s barberry.

Special Status Wildlife Species (Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, Candidate and Forest Service Sensitive) 21. In unarmored threespine stickleback, arroyo toad, or red-legged frog occupied or critical habitat: a) Herbicide treatment within 100 feet of the streambank will not be allowed during the typical spawning/breeding period5. This restriction period may increase if spawning is observed earlier or later in the season for these three species. b) In no case, shall herbicide drift be allowed to enter adjacent waters in these areas. c) At all times in occupied/critical habitat, glyphosate (e.g. Aquamaster®) and triclopyr TEA (e.g. Renovate 3®) application rates will not exceed 3 pounds a.e. per acre within 100 feet of the stream if surface water is present. d) Use of Triclopyr BEE formulation in upland areas will only be allowed if it is greater than 150 feet from occupied/critical habitat. e) In uplands directly upslope of occupied/critical habitat, where runoff would be delivered directly to the stream, no triclopyr BEE application will occur during the spawning season or (as noted in design feature 1e) if precipitation is occurring or imminent within 48 hours. f) Six pounds a.e. of triclopyr BEE formulation per acre is the maximum amount that can be used in foliar and spot spray applications in uplands adjacent to these species occupied or critical habitat. h) During herbicide application in these occupied or critical habitats, applicators will not be allowed to make multiple stream crossings for the purpose of treating both streambanks simultaneously. For example, during a work period, an individual should conduct treatments along one streambank for the entire stretch before initiating treatments on the opposing bank.

22. If suitable southwestern willow flycatcher or least Bell’s vireo habitat is located in a project area, the suitable habitat will be excluded from treatment (including restoration activities) during the breeding season (March 15 to September 15 for the least Bell’s Vireo and May 1 to August 31 for the southwestern willow flycatcher) unless USFWS protocol surveys have been conducted that year with negative results. If chainsaws or other noisy mechanical equipment is used during the breeding season, include a 500-foot buffer from suitable habitat or restrict activities to two hours or less within 500 feet of suitable habitat. This restriction is waived if USFWS protocol surveys have been conducted with negative results. Additionally, in areas where tamarisk is present and contributes to the suitability of nesting habitat for the southwestern willow flycatcher, treatments of these tamarisk occurrences will not result in a net reduction of more than 20 percent of the suitable habitat within the project area annually, unless USFWS protocol surveys have been conducted that year with negative results.

5 Breeding/spawning season. Arroyo toad (Feb-August), Ca. Red-legged frog (Nov.-April), Unarmored threespine stickleback (April- July)

23. Avoid adverse impacts to nesting birds per Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), by avoiding treatment activities during bird breeding season (March 15 to September 15) whenever practicable. If work is performed during the breeding season, applicators and other project personnel will watch for nests and disturbed nesting birds. If active nests are located, any work should be completed quickly near the nest to reduce disturbance.

24. If multiple, unconnected streams or springs are being walked or worked in by implementation crews on the same day, treatment of boots and equipment prior to entry into the new area will be required to reduce the spread of chytrid fungus and other waterborne problems. Treatment of boots and equipment would consist of cleaning with a 10 percent bleach solution (or another accepted technique). Avoid cleaning equipment in the immediate vicinity of a pond, wetland, or riparian area. (Declining Amphibian Task Force Code of Practice).

Water Resources 25. Appropriate Best Management Practices (BMPs) will be followed to reduce or prevent negative impacts to non-target resources. BMPs for this project include the following in addition to previously mentioned BMPs: a) Every effort will be made to prevent herbicide(s) from being introduced into water. To accomplish this, herbicides will only be sprayed in a downward direction in riparian areas. If target plants are taller than three feet, the plants will be laid down and sprayed (bend and spray). Herbicide applicator must be able to stand on dry ground between the water edge and plants to be sprayed and spray must be directed away from the water. A coarse spray will be used to target individual invasive plants and reduce drift. b) Herbicide usage will be limited to minimum amount required to be effective. c) Herbicides will be applied according to label directions and applicable legal requirements (BMP PRACTICE: 5-8). d) Herbicide application will be monitored and evaluated. e) Pesticide Spill Contingency Planning (BMP PRACTICE 5-10). (See Design Feature 3). f) Cleaning and Disposal of Pesticide Containers and Equipment (PRACTICE 5-11). (See Design Feature 3). g) Streamside Wet Area Protection During Pesticide Spraying (PRACTICE: 5-12). (See proceeding Design Features). h) Controlling Pesticide Drift during Spray Application (PRACTICE: 5-13). (See proceeding Design Features).

Wilderness Areas 26. Prior to any herbicide use in wilderness, a Pesticide Use Request will be submitted to the Regional Forester for approval. Treatment using herbicides will not be conducted until approved.

WEED CONTROL TREATMENT SCHEDULE The timing of the weed control treatment will be determined for each plant species in consultation with the project proponent, the herbicide contractor and the ANF with the goal of treating populations before they start producing seeds. Unless otherwise authorized by the ANF, weed control efforts in the treatment areas will be timed annually to reduce noxious weed seed production, by pulling, herbicides, or otherwise treating infestations before flowering has just started, but before seeds have been produced (typically January – March). As required in Design Criteria #1 an annual pre-operation briefing will be required prior to treatment between the project proponent, ANF and the herbicide contractor. The briefing will include a review of sensitive resource locations, the identification characteristics of sensitive resources that could be found in the project area, the identification characteristics of weed species to be treated, and all operational details (including safety issues, herbicides approved for use etc.). The

31 annual briefing should include a review of previous herbicide applications and their observed effectiveness. Methods of adaptive management should be discussed prior to the annual briefing in order to prepare the best treatment strategies for the coming year.

HERBICIDE APPLICATION Control of many target weeds will require herbicide application. The application of general use herbicides will be conducted in compliance with herbicide labels and applicable supplemental labels, all local, state, and federal laws and regulations, and applicable permits. In areas containing Forest Service sensitive plants, there will be a 5 to 70-foot buffer (size of buffer will be determined and flagged for avoidance by the ANF botanist based on phenology at time of treatment, rareness and imperilment of species, vulnerability to herbicide being used, concentration of herbicide used based on no observed effect concentrations (NOEC), and/or environmental conditions and terrain). The project proponent will be responsible for maintaining this sensitive plant avoidance flagging for the duration of the project.

In areas containing sensitive resources, the herbicide contractor will take all necessary precautions to reduce drift or runoff of herbicides into the resources. Adjusting the herbicide used, application method, and other methods can reduce the risk of contamination to these sensitive resources. The contractor will be responsible for identifying these sensitive resources and making the necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

The herbicide contractor should select herbicides from Table 1 above to specifically target each weed species at each treatment location. Multiple herbicide applications will likely be needed to reach control objectives for the target species at all application locations. Herbicides should be mixed according to label directions for achieving maximum control and applied following recommended label rates during the growth windows indicated on the label. Careful selection of specific herbicides should be performed for each treatment site in order to provide optimal weed control and reduce impacts to native species. Each herbicide label has a section listing the species, that when treated according to label directions, will be controlled by that herbicide.

This list of approved herbicides may be re-evaluated as additional herbicides are approved for use in California and on USFS lands.

In general, herbicide applications in and adjacent to sensitive areas (e.g., wetlands, riparian buffers, etc.) will be conducted using herbicides labeled for use in aquatic environments, in accordance with herbicide labels and applicable supplemental labels and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.

ADJUVANTS TO BE USED

The adjuvants that may be utilized during this project fall into the categories of surfactants, oil adjuvants and dyes. All of these adjuvants can only be added to the correct herbicide following the instructions and proportions instructed by the herbicide label. The adjuvants least toxic to humans and wildlife will be utilized whenever possible.

APPLICATOR LICENSES AND OTHER REGULATORY OR AGENCY POLICY REQUIREMENTS

All herbicides which will be used for this project have been registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR). None of the herbicides proposed for use are considered to be federally or state restricted, therefore personnel implementing weed control are not required to hold applicator licenses or certificates from CDPR. Further, a Notice of Intent is not required to be submitted to the County of Los Angeles for applications for this project, as this is only required for applications of restricted pesticides. The contractor selected should hold a valid Pest Control Business license and employ at least one person in a supervisory position holding a Qualified Applicator’s License. The contractor should also possess documented experience performing herbicide applications to control noxious weed species. Experience with the species documented within ANF is preferred.

The Santa Clara/Mojave Rivers Ranger District (SCMRRD) District Ranger for the ANF will document final approval for use of herbicides by signing an agency form (FS 2100-2, Pesticide Use Proposal) prior to implementation of this plan. The form will be kept in the special use permit file for the project. California State regulations (www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/legbills/calcode/030302.htm#a6724 ) also require that 1) a Qualified Applicator must instruct all employees handling herbicides of the correct uses, handling, and safety precautions for each of the herbicides to be utilized prior to the start of the project; 2) a Pesticide Handler Training Program must be written for all of the herbicides utilized and then signed by the Applicator and prospective employee; 3) a Pesticide Training Record must be filled out and signed by each employee prior to herbicide application (see Attachment A); 4) Los Angeles County must be informed of herbicide use and location on a monthly basis. The herbicide training must include the following which may apply to the project:

(a) The training shall cover, for each pesticide or chemically similar group of pesticides, to be used:

(1) Format and meaning of information, such as precautionary statements about human health hazards, contained in pesticide product labeling;

(2) Hazards of pesticides, including acute and chronic effects, delayed effects, and sensitization, as identified in pesticide product labeling, Material Safety Data Sheets, or Pesticide Safety Information Series leaflets;

(3) Routes by which pesticides can enter the body;

(4) Signs and symptoms of overexposure;

(5) Emergency first aid for pesticide overexposure;

(6) How to obtain emergency medical care;

(7) Routine and emergency decontamination procedures, including spill cleanup and the need to thoroughly shower with soap and warm water after the exposure period;

(8) Need for, limitations, appropriate use, and sanitation, of, any required personal protective equipment;

(9) Prevention, recognition, and first aid for heat-related illness;

(10) Safety requirements and procedures, including engineering controls (such as closed systems and enclosed cabs) for handling, transporting, storing, and disposing of pesticides;

(11) Environmental concerns such as drift, runoff, and wildlife hazards;

(12) Warnings about taking pesticides or pesticide containers home;

(13) Requirements of Chapters 3 and 4 of Title 3, Division 6, Pesticides and Pest Control Operations, of the California Code of Regulations, relating to pesticide safety, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), and Pesticide Safety Information Series leaflets;

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(14) The location of the written Hazard Communication Information For Employees Handling Pesticides (Pesticide Safety Information Series leaflet A-8), other Pesticide Safety Information Series leaflets, and Material Safety Data Sheets;

(15) The employee’s rights, including the right;

(A) To personally receive information about pesticides to which he or she may be exposed;

(B) For his or her physician or employee representative to receive information about pesticides to which he or she may be exposed; and

(C) To be protected against retaliatory action due to the exercise of any of his or her rights.

(b) The training shall be in a manner the employee can understand, be conducted pursuant to the written training program, and include response to questions.

(c) Training shall be completed before the employee is allowed to handle pesticides, continually updated to cover any new pesticides that will be handled, and repeated at least annually thereafter. Initial training may be waived if the employee submits a record showing that training meeting the requirements of this Section and covering the pesticides and use situations applicable to the new employment situation was received within the last year. A certified applicator is considered trained for the purposes of this Section.

(d) The date and extent of initial and annually required training given to the employee and the job to be assigned shall be recorded. This record shall be verified by the employee’s signature and retained by the employer for two years at a central location at the workplace accessible to employees

In addition to the above four requirements, the State requires

a) Hazard Communication Information for Employees Handling Pesticides in Noncrop Settings (Pesticide Safety Information Series leaflet N-8), as applicable, at a central location in the workplace. Upon request, the employer shall read to the requesting employee, in a language understandable to that employee, Pesticide Information Series leaflet A-8/N-8. Pesticide Information Series leaflet A-8/N-8 shall be written by the Department of Pesticide Regulation in English and Spanish. Pesticide Information Series leaflets are available from the department.

(b) The employer shall maintain, at a central location at the workplace accessible to employees who handle pesticides the following:

(1) Pesticide use records as specified in Section 6624 (b), (c), and (e) for pesticides that have been handled by his or her employees;

(2) Copies of available Pesticide Safety Information Series leaflets which are applicable to the pesticides and handling activities listed in the pesticide use records referred to in subsection (b) (1); and

(3) A MSDS, as specified by Title 8 California Code of Regulations, Section 5194, for each pesticide listed in the pesticide use records referred to in subsection (b) (1). If the MSDS is not provided by the registrant of a pesticide, the employer shall:

(A) Within seven working days of a request for a MSDS from an employee, employee representative or employee’s physician, make written inquiry to the registrant of the pesticide, asking that a MSDS be sent to the employer. If the employer has made written inquiry within the last twelve months as to whether the pesticide is subject to the requirement for a MSDS or the employer has made a written inquiry within the last six months requesting new, revised or later information on the MSDS, the employer need not make additional written inquiry. A copy of the written inquiry shall immediately be sent to the person requesting the MSDS;

(B) Notify the requester of the availability of the MSDS or provide a copy of the MSDS to the requester within fifteen days of receipt of the MSDS from the registrant; and

(C) If a response has not been received from the registrant within twenty-five working days of the date the inquiry was made, send the department a copy of the inquiry with a notation that no response has been received. The employer is not precluded from obtaining and providing the MSDS utilizing other more expedient methods in lieu of those provided in this subsection.

(c) The employer shall inform employees, before they are allowed to handle pesticides and at least annually thereafter, of the location and availability of the records and other documents listed in this Section or relating to employee training, monitoring, and potential exposure. If the location of the records and other documents changes, an employer shall promptly inform his or her employees of the new location.

(d) The employer shall provide, upon request of his or her employee, employee representative, or employee’s physician, access to any records or other documents required to be maintained pursuant to this chapter. Access shall be granted as soon as possible and not to exceed forty-eight hours from the date of the request.

All of these requirements are the responsibility of the herbicide contractor in order to be in compliance with California State regulations.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE GEAR FOR APPLICATORS The health and safety of the applicator are of foremost concern. Applicators must wear all protective gear required on the label of the herbicide they are using. Any additional safety and protective gear requested by applicators must be provided. See the section below for more detailed descriptions of personal protective equipment (PPE) that may be required (Tu, M., Hurd, C., & J.M. Randall, 2001). Additional information and guidelines may be obtained from a publication produced by The Nature Conservancy: Weed Control Methods Handbook: Tools & Techniques for Use in Natural Areas, Chapter 5, Guidelines for Herbicide Use (Tu, M., Hurd, C., & J.M. Randall, 2001

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Herbicide labels indicate the minimum PPE required. The level of PPE may vary by application technique and by herbicide formulation. All PPE indicated on the herbicide label should be worn during applications. Cotton, leather, canvas, and other absorbent materials are not chemical resistant, even to dry formulations.

. Always wear at least a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, sturdy shoes or boots, socks, and eye protection. The more layers of fabric and air between you and the pesticide, the better the protection. . A thick layer of spray starch on clothing will add some protection from pesticides. . Hands and forearms usually receive the most pesticide exposure. Wear chemical-resistant gloves, and tuck shirt sleeves into gloves (gloves should reach up the forearm, with cuffs to catch runs and drips). . Canvas, cloth, and leather shoes or boots are almost impossible to clean adequately. Wear chemical-resistant rubber boots that come up at least halfway to the knee if the lower legs and feet will be exposed to herbicides or residues.

AVOIDING CONTAMINATION

. Wear chemical-resistant gloves (rubber or plastic such as butyl, nitrile, or polyvinyl chloride are common types).

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. Make sure gloves are clean, in good condition, and worn properly. Replace gloves often. Wash and dry hands before putting on gloves. Wash gloves before removing them. . Wash hands thoroughly before eating, drinking, using tobacco products, or going to the bathroom. . Cuff gloves if pesticide is expected to run down towards the sleeves. Tuck sleeves into gloves.

EYE AND RESPIRATORY PROTECTION

. PPE labeling might require goggles, face shields, or safety glasses with shields. Some formulas or handling activities pose more risks to eyes than others. Dusts, concentrates, and fine sprays have the highest risk of causing pesticide exposure. . There are many types of dust-mist masks and respirators, all of which must fit and be used properly to be effective. . Respiratory protection is most important in enclosed spaces or when the applicator will be exposed to pesticides for a long time. . Pesticides that can volatilize require the use of respirators. Check label requirements.

PERSONAL CLEAN-UP AFTER HERBICIDE USE

. Wash gloves and footwear (if possible) with detergent and water before removing them. . Change clothing and put clothes used during application in a plastic box or bag, and keep it away from children or pets Use a mild liquid detergent and warm water to wash your hands, forearms, face, and any other body parts that may have been exposed to pesticides. Take a warm shower and wash your hair and body at the end of the work day.

LAUNDRY

. Do not wash work clothing and PPE in the same wash water with the family laundry. Handle with care and wash your hands after loading the machine. . If you have chemical-resistant items, follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions. Wash boots and gloves with hot water and liquid detergent. Wash twice, once outside and once inside. Air-dry boots and gloves. . Rinse clothes in a machine or by hand. . Wash in plenty of water for dilution and agitation. . If using a washing machine, use heavy-duty liquid detergent in hot water for the wash cycles. . After washing the clothes, run the washer through one complete cycle with detergent and hot water, but no clothing, to clean the machine. . Hang items to dry if possible in plenty of fresh air. Do not hang in living areas. . Using a clothes dryer is acceptable, but over time the machine may become contaminated with pesticide residues.

EMERGENCY PRECAUTIONS AND EQUIPMENT

Applicators must have easy access to emergency decontamination and first aid kits whenever they are applying herbicides, even if they are out in the field. All applicators should have access to an eyewash kit and at least 2 gallons of clean water. Decontamination kits should include: 1. Two (or more) 1 gallon containers filled with potable water, 2. Eyewash kits or eyewash bottles with buffered isotonic eyewash, 3. Hand or body soap (bring enough for all workers to thoroughly wash their hands when in the field), 4. Paper or other disposable towels, 5. A full tyvek coverall with foot covers, 6. A map and directions to the nearest medical facilities.

HERBICIDE STORAGE

Store herbicides in a well-ventilated, cool, dry area where food and drinks are never stored or prepared. Most pesticides should not be stored for any length of time below 40° F. The floor should be concrete or lined with plastic or other impermeable material to prevent leaks from reaching the soil.

The area should be inaccessible to the public and/or locked except when chemicals are being removed or returned. Containers should be labeled to indicate the following: contents (ratio of herbicide, surfactant, water, etc.), date mixed, and approximate volume remaining when placed in storage. The containers must be stored carefully and never stacked. It is preferred that storage of herbicide be avoided on National Forest System lands. If storage of herbicide on National Forest System lands is determined necessary, it shall be subject to approval by the ANF botanist.

MIXING HERBICIDES

Use extreme caution when mixing herbicides. Dermal exposure to a small amount of a concentrated herbicide can be equivalent to the exposure received after a full day of working in a treated field (Libich et al. 1984). Before mixing any herbicide, read the label. Herbicide labels are legal documents and users are obligated to read and obey them.

Herbicides shall be mixed only in pre-designated areas - preferably off of the ANF, either in an industrial sink near the storage site or in an area near the treatment site(s) in which damage from small spills or other herbicide contamination would be minimal. Field mixing sites should have relatively few native or other desirable species, not be susceptible to erosion or runoff, and rarely, if ever, be visited by the public or preserve staff. In addition, mixing sites should provide easy access for containment and clean-up of spills and must be a minimum of 150 feet away from any body of water or stream.

At the mixing site, assemble the appropriate equipment including safety and clean-up gear and measuring and mixing utensils. Heavy plastic garbage bags, a shovel, and an absorbent (e.g. cat litter) must be easily available at field mixing sites in case of a larger spill. Remember to wear all protective gear while handling and mixing herbicides. Avoid metal measuring utensils as some pesticides can react with metal. Clearly label herbicide-measuring equipment to avoid confusion with equipment used for measuring food. Wash all utensils before storage to prevent contamination of future mixes.

Prior to mixing, determine the order that chemicals will be added to the mix. Generally, adjuvants are added prior to the herbicide, but consult the label for specific instructions. When mixing, start by filling the spray tank or other mixing vessel half to three-quarters full with water. The water should be clean and clear to prevent contamination of the mixture or clogging of tank nozzles and hoses. The water should have a neutral or slightly acidic pH, as alkaline water can cause the pesticide to breakdown prior to application. Add a buffer or acidifier to the water if necessary.

Carefully measure the herbicide concentrate and add it to the tank water. Small measuring errors can lead to large errors in the amount of pesticide applied. Be aware of if you are using the active ingredient (a.i.) or acid equivalent (a.e.) of the herbicide (see sidebar below for more details). The measuring container should be rinsed and the rinsate added to the tank 37 solution. The container of liquid herbicides should be triple rinsed with ¼ container volume of water. Add rinsate to the tank solution or store it in a separate container labeled "WATER AND RINSATE FOR HERBICIDE ONLY, NONPOTABLE".

TRANSPORTING HERBICIDES

Herbicides must be transported in tightly sealed containers placed in a well-constructed and watertight carrying box or bucket, such as a Rubbermaid tub or cat litter bucket. A good container will prevent leaks in vehicles, onto applicators, or to the environment. In some cases, only a small amount of herbicide should be carried to treat weeds encountered while conducting daily activities in the field.

HERBICIDE DISPOSAL

Equipment Cleanup Following use, application equipment and empty containers should be triple rinsed with clean water using 10% of the container volume for each rinse. If possible, rinse equipment in the treatment area and apply the rinsate to weeds or label and store for future use as a dilutant. Left over herbicide mix that will not be used later should be treated as hazardous waste.

Container Disposal Use the state herbicide container recycling program where available. If no specific agri-chemical container recycling program is available, puncture the empty container to prevent anyone from using it as a container again, and then dispose of or destroy it. In most areas, small numbers of empty, triple-rinsed containers can be disposed in the trash for pick-up or taken to the local dump, unless the label states otherwise. Written permission from the County Agriculture Commissioner may be needed to dispose of containers. If the herbicide label states that the container may not be disposed of in regular sanitary landfills, call the applicable county or municipal waste department for information on Hazardous Material Collection dates. Containers with labels are removed or with illegible labels should be treated as hazardous waste.

Equipment and Applicator Cleanup After use, first clean and store application equipment and then thoroughly rinse PPE (gloves, boots, etc.) with cold water from a hose or container that is hand-held (gloves off) and was not used during application work. All PPE should then be washed in mild soap and water. Finally, applicators should wash their hands and any herbicide-exposed areas of their bodies. Applicators should shower and change clothing as soon as possible. Clothes used during the application must be washed and dried separately from other clothing before it is worn again, even if it appears uncontaminated.

RESPONDING TO SPILLS

An “Herbicide Kit” for emergency spills must be on site at all times herbicides are being handled (see the following Herbicide Spill Kit equipment list). If a spill occurs, keep people away from affected areas until the clean-up process is complete. When small volumes of dilute herbicide are spilled they may be treated by carefully digging up the affected soil and litter, and spreading this material at the legal rate or concentration. Regardless of the volume of spillage contact the ANF Hazmat Specialist (Joe Gonzalez) or ANF Botanist (Katie VinZant) if a spill does occur. Appropriate spill containment and reporting procedures for the project will be implemented. Herbicide Spill Kit Equipment . Emergency phone numbers . Labels and MSDSs for all pesticides on hand . Personal Protective Equipment: gloves, footwear, apron, goggles, face shield, respirator . Heavy plastic bags for material storage . Containment “snakes” (chemsorb tubes or pads to contain & absorb spilled chemicals) . Absorbent materials (cat litter, vermiculite, paper, etc.) . Neutralizing agents (bleach and hydrated lime) . Sweeping compound for dry spills . Shovel, broom, dustpan . Heavy duty detergent, chlorine bleach, and water . Fire extinguisher certified for all types of fires . Sturdy plastic container that closes tightly and will hold the largest quantity of pesticide on hand . First aid supplies . Fresh water (at least 3 gallons; bring extra for wash-up after) . Eyewash . Soap (dish soap or hand soap) . Towels . Change of clothes . Additional items required by labeling

HERBICIDE USE NOTIFICATION

Areas recently treated with herbicides should not be reentered, at a minimum, until the herbicide has dried. If the herbicide label specifies a reentry period, posted signs should state the reentry period ,warning visitors and others not to enter the treated area. The signs should indicate that the area has been treated with an herbicide, what materials were used, what time they were applied, and the name and telephone number of a contact person.

At this time it is not anticipated that herbicides will be applied in areas in which members of the general public might consume vegetation or fruit. If the USFS determines that this is likely, the edible vegetation or fruit will be cut prior to being treated with herbicide. The intent is to reduce the risk of the public consuming vegetation or fruit that has been treated with herbicide.

HERBICIDE USE DOCUMENTATION

Herbicide treatment of noxious and target weeds shall be tracked in the Weed Control Herbicide Tracking Tables (Attachments C and D). The purpose of the tables is to track the amount and efficacy of herbicide applied in each treatment area. As such, an entry shall be made for each treatment area. For each entry, the date of treatment, amount and type of chemical applied, adjuvants included, target species and estimated number of individuals treated, size of treated area, weather conditions, name and herbicide license, number of applicators, method of application and other vital information shall be provided. The herbicide applicator should also include details on the success/failure of previous applications in the area and recommended adaptive management strategies to guide future treatments of the target species or area (Attachment D). There shall be a minimum of one entry for each day herbicide is applied, although multiple entries for a single day may be provided if herbicide is applied at multiple sites or multiple target species. Documentation of herbicide use is the responsibility of the herbicide contractor and shall be submitted to the ANF on a monthly basis. Treatment Results and Treatment Recommendation components of the Weed Control Herbicide Tracking Table (Attachment D) will be provided by the herbicide contractor following periodic inspections and submitted to the ANF on a quarterly basis. This regular reporting should include recommendations for adaptive management of the treated sites 39 and species. The tracking table may be used to support the annual reporting requirements. Herbicide contractors shall also keep records of herbicide applications in accordance with herbicide label requirements, local, state, and federal regulations, and permit requirements.

REFERENCES

Bakke, David. 2007. Unpublished Document. Analysis of issues surrounding the use of spray adjuvants with herbicides. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region, Vallejo, CA. Accessed on the World Wide Web at http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/spf/fhp/pesticide/surfactants_Jan_07_update.pdf on January 14, 2010.

Cal-IPC, 2006. California Invasive Plant Inventory. Cal-IPC Publication 2006-02, California Invasive Plant Council (www.cal- ipc.org): Berkeley, CA, February 2006.

Tu, M., Hurd, C., & J.M. Randall, 2001. Weed Control Methods Handbook, The Nature Conservancy, http://tncinvasives.ucdavis.edu, Version: April 2001.

United States Forest Service. 1994a. Forest Service Handb. 2109.14. Pesticide-Use Management and Coordination Handbook. Washington, DC. Accessed on the World Wide Web at http://www.fs.fed.us/cgi-bin/Directives/get_dirs/fsh?2109.14. On January 20, 2010

United States Forest Service. 1994b. Forest Service Manual. 2150. WO Amendment 2100-94-7. Pesticide-Use Management and Coordination. Washington, DC. Accessed on the World Wide Web at http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/fsm/2100/2150.txt on January 20 2010.

United States Forest Service. 2005. Angeles National Forest Land Management Plan. U.S. Forest Service, Department of Agriculture. Pacific Southwest Region.

United States Forest Service. 2008. Comparison of relocatable commercial vehicle washing systems. San Dimas, CA. Accessed on the World Wide Web at http://www.weedcenter.org/management/docs/09_VehicleWashingSystemReport.pdf on August 30, 2010.

United States Forest Service. 2013. Santa Clara/Mojave River Invasive Plant Treatment Project. Project File on Santa Clara/Mojave Ranger District. Santa Clara/Mojave River Ranger District, 33708 Crown Valley Road Acton, CA 93510

APPENDIX C: ANF WEED SPECIES TO ERADICATE ***Acacia sp. Acacia *Acroptilon repens Russian knapweed **Ageratina adenophora Eupatory **Ailanthus altissima Tree of heaven A*Alternanthera philoxeroides Alligatorweed *Arundo donax Giant reed grass A**Asphodelus fistulosus Asphodel **Atriplex semibaccata Saltbush *Brassica Africantournefortii mustard A African mustard **Carduus pycnocephalus It Italian thistle *Centaurea solstitialis Yell Yellow star thistle *Centaurea maculosa Spot Spotted Knapweed **Centaurea melitensis Tocalote **Cirsium vulgare B Bull thistle ***Cistus creticus rockrose A*Colutea arboreCHSRA ns bladder pod senna **Conium maculatum Poi Poison hemlock *Cortaderia jubata/selloana Pamapas grass **Cynara cardunculus artichoke thistle * Delairea odorata V German Ivy * Dipsacus sativus Teasel ***Dimorphotheca sinuata A African daisy A*Eichornia crassipes Water hyacinth **Elaeagnus angustifolius R Russian olive *Erharta sp. Veldtgrass **Eucalyptus globulus Blue gum *Euphorbia dendroides tree spurge A*Euphorbia terracina Geralton carnation spurge **Ficus caricaFig Fig *Foeniculum vulgare Fennel ***Fumaria officinalis Fumitory *Genista monospessulana F French broom **Halogeton glomeratus halogeton *Hedera helixEnglish ivy English ivy A*Hydrilla verticillata Hydrilla *Lathyrus latifolius Perr Perrenial sweetpea *Lepidium latifolium Peren perennial pepperweed *Linaria genistifolia ssp.Dalm Dalmatian toadflax dalmatica ***Lobularia maritima S sweet alyssum A*Ludwigia sp. W Water primrose ***Marrubium vulgare horehound A*Myriophyllumparrotfeather aquaticum Parrotfeather **Nicotania glauca Tr Tree tobacco ***Olea europaea Olive **Pennisetum clandestinum K Kikuyu grass **Pennisetum setaceum Fo Fountain grass ***Picris echioides Bris Bristly ox-tongue ***Piptatherum miliaceum S Smilo grass **Potamogeton crispus Curly Curlleaf pondweed ***Prunus cerasifera C Cherry plum ***Pyracantha sp. pyracantha ***Raphanus sativus wild radish A**Retama monosperma Bridal broom **Ricinus communis Castorbean **Robinia pseudoacacia B Black locust ***Rosemarinus officianalis Rosemary *Rubus discolor Himal Himalayan blackberry ***Salsola tragus Ru Russian thistle ***Salsola paulseniiBarbwi Barbwire Russian thistle ***Saponaria officinalis Bo Bouncing bet ***Schinus molle Peruv Peruvian pepper tree 41

***Silybum marianum milk thistle *Spartium junceum Sp Spanish broom *Tamarix ramosissima Saltcedar ***Tradescantia fluminensis small-leaved spiderwort ***Tribulus terrestris Pu Puncture vine **Ulnus parvifolia Chinese elm **Vinca major periwinkle ***Washingtonia robusta Mexican fan palm

Most Common Weed Species to Eradicate *Avena barbata/fatua wild oats ***Bassia hysopifolia five hook bassia **Brassica nigra black mustard *Bromus diandrus ripgut brome *Bromus hordeaceus smooth brome *Bromus madritensis ssp rubens red brome *Bromus tectorum cheat grass *Cnicus benedictus blessed thistle ***Convolvulus arvensis field bindweed **Cynodon dactylon Bermuda grass ***Descurania sophia tansy mustard ***Erodium sp. Filaree **Festuca arundinacea tall fescue **Hirschfeldia incana shortpod mustard **Holcus lanatus velvet grass **Hordeum murinum barley ***Lactuca serriola prickly lettuce *Lolium multiflorum Italian ryegrass **Lunaria annua moonwort ***Medicago polymorpha bur clover **Melilotus officinalis/alba sweetclover **Oxalis pes-caprae Bermuda buttercup **Phalaris aquatica Harding grass ***Poa bulbosa bulbous bluegrass **Polygonum monospeliensis rabbitfoot grass ***Ranunculus testicularis tuberculed crowfoot *Schismus barbatus Mediterranean grass **Sisymbrium sp. mustard ***Sonchus sp sow thistle **Verbascum thapsus wooly mullein ***Vulpia myuros rat-tail fescue

CAL-IPC List Catagories *Severe: Most Invasive Wildland Pest Plants; documented as aggressive invaders that displace natives and disrupt natural habitats. **Moderate: Wildland Plants of Lesser Invasiveness; plants that spread less rapidly and cause a lesser degree of habitat disruption

***Limited: Wildland Plants of Limited Invasiveness; plants that have a limited distribution and impact on natural habitats or species for which there is not adequate information to describe its threat to wildlands

A Red Alert: Plants with potential to spread explosively, infestations currently localized or small

Table constructed from CAL-IPC invasive plant species listing of 2006: www.cal-ipc.org

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