Fort Devens Integrated Natural Resource Mgmt

FINAL – INTEGRATED NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN

Devens Reserve Forces Training Area Devens, Massachusetts

Prepared for:

USAG Fort Devens 30 Quebec Street, Box 10 Devens, Massachusetts 01434‐4479

Prepared by:

Bluestone Environmental Group, Inc. 675 Lancaster Avenue Berwyn, PA 19312

September 2019

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Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan Signature Page

Devens Reserve Forces Training Area Devens, Massachusetts

This lntegrated Natural Resource Management Plan meets the requirements of the Sikes Act (15 USC 570a et seq.)as amended.

Approving Officials:

HALTER. Ll NDSEY. ELIZABETH..I 1 Disitaly sisned by 11370332s8 20191 010 370332e8 31155,!i|3i51,:.1?'5lH

LTC Lindsey E. Halter Date Commander, Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

OcI Tom pman Date Project Leader - Ne England Field Office U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Mark Tisa Da Director Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife)

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Table of Contents Signature Page Signature Page ...... 3 Table of Contents ...... i List of Tables ...... iv Appendices ...... v 1. Purpose and Scope ...... 1 2. Goals, Objectives, and Measures of Effectiveness ...... 2 3. Installation History ...... 4 4. Natural Resource Management History ...... 4 4.1. Land Management ...... 5 4.2. Woodland/Forest Management ...... 5 4.3. Fish and Wildlife Management ...... 6 5. Installation Overview ...... 6 5.1. Maps ...... 6 5.2. Installation Information ...... 7 5.3. Regional Land Use and Setting...... 8 5.4. Natural Environment ...... 9 5.4.1. Climate ...... 9 5.4.2. Air Quality ...... 9 5.4.3. Topography ...... 9 5.4.4. Geology ...... 10 5.4.5. Hydrology...... 10 5.4.6. Ecoregions ...... 10 5.5. Public and Affiliate Access ...... 11 5.6. Unique Natural Resources ...... 11 6. Natural Resource Management Program Elements ...... 12 6.1. Geographic Information System Development ...... 12 6.2. Climate Change Management ...... 13 6.3. Soil Conservation and Erosion and Sedimentation Control ...... 15 6.4. Water Resource Management ...... 19 6.4.1. Surface Water ...... 19 6.4.2. Stormwater ...... 21 6.4.3. Groundwater ...... 21

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6.4.4. Drinking Water ...... 22 6.4.5. Wetlands ...... 22 6.4.6. Floodplains ...... 27 6.5. Sensitive Species Management ...... 28 6.5.1. Federally Listed Threatened and Endangered Species ...... 33 6.5.1.1. Northern Long‐Eared Bat (Federally Threatened, State Endangered) ...... 34 6.5.1.2. Small Whorled Pogonia (Federally Threatened; State Endangered) ...... 35 6.5.2. State Listed Species and Species of Concern ...... 35 6.5.2.1. Grasshopper Sparrow (State Threatened) ...... 35 6.5.2.2. Blanding’s Turtle (State Threatened) ...... 36 6.5.2.3. Eastern Whip‐poor‐will (State special concern) ...... 37 6.5.2.4. Monarch Butterfly (under review) ...... 38 6.5.2.5. New England Blazing Star (State special concern) ...... 38 6.6. Migratory Bird Management ...... 39 6.7. Fish and Wildlife Management ...... 40 6.7.1. Fish and Wildlife Species Known to Occur on DRFTA ...... 41 6.7.1.1. Fish ...... 41 6.7.1.2. Mammals ...... 41 6.7.1.3. Birds ...... 42 6.7.1.4. Reptiles and Amphibians ...... 42 6.7.1.5. Invertebrates ...... 42 6.7.2. Hunting Program ...... 43 6.8. Vegetation Management ...... 44 6.8.1. Grasslands ...... 45 6.8.2. Forests ...... 46 6.8.3. Invasive Plants ...... 47 6.8.4. Urban Landscapes ...... 47 6.9. Integrated Pest Management ...... 48 6.9.1. Forest Pests ...... 49 6.9.2. Forest Diseases ...... 50 6.9.3. Invasive Plant Species ...... 50 6.10. Wildland Fire Management ...... 51 7. Implementation ...... 52 7.1. Conservation Awareness ...... 53 7.2. Natural Resources Staffing ...... 53

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7.3. Funding ...... 53 8. Five‐Year Implementation Plan ...... 55 9. Integrated Training Area Management Role and Responsibilities ...... 69 9.1. Training Land Sustainability and Realism ...... 70 9.2. Sustainable Training Lands...... 70 9.3. Realistic Training Conditions ...... 70 9.4. Accessible Training Land ...... 70 9.5. Defining Desired and Non‐Desired Land Conditions ...... 71 9.6. ITAM Work Plan ...... 71

iii

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Table 2‐1: DRFTA Integrated Natural Resource Management Plan Goals & Objectives

Table 5‐1: DRFTA Figures Included in Appendix A1 Table 5‐2: DRFTA Property Parcels

Table 6‐1: Climate Change Strategies at DRFTA Table 6‐2: Soil Series Map Units at DRFTA Table 6‐3: Surface Water Bodies at DRFTA Table 6‐4: Wetlands at Fort Devens Table 6‐5: CWA Regulatory Information Applicable to DRFTA Table 6‐6: Sensitive Species and Species of Concern at DRFTA Table 6‐7: Vegetation at DRFTA Table 6‐8: Invasive Plants and Control Activities at DRFTA

Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

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Appendices

Appendix A. Maps and References A1. Figures Figure 1 Installation Map Figure 2A Military Constraints South Post Figure 2B Military Constraints – Northern Areas Figure 3A Environmental Constraints ‐ South Post Figure 3B Environmental Constraints – Northern Areas Figure 4 DRFTA Regional Overview Figure 5 DRFTA Soils Figure 6 DRFTA Vegetation Figure 7 NHSEP Priority and Estimated Habitats Figure 8 BioMap2 Habitat

A2. List of Acronyms

A3. Literature Cited

A4. Agreements and Site‐Specific Data  Sikes Act Tripartite Agreement Memorandum of Understanding  MassWildlife Letter regarding 2019 INRMP and EA Preliminary Comments from the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, dated May 8, 2019  USFWS Consultation and IPaC for Airspace Change Proposal  USFWS Preliminary IPaC Entire Property  USFWS Consultation and IPaC for MS4 NOI  a. Table of Confirmed Fauna at DRFTA (Fort Devens, 2010) b. Table of Vernal Pool Species (Oxbow, 2019)  DRFTA Waterfowl Plot Check dated April 22, 2019  USFWS Field Office Email Correspondence regarding Northern Long‐Eared Bat, dated June 17, 2019.

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1. Purpose and Scope

Natural resources are the materials and capabilities provided by nature. The term, natural resources, includes minerals, soils, forests, water, fish, wildlife, and plants. Natural resources define the wealth of a nation and where lands are managed by the federal government, natural resources are held in trust for the public. This common law principle is known as the Public Trust Doctrine. In accordance with this principal, the Army is entrusted with managing the natural resources of its lands in a responsible, sustainable manner, making them available for future generations.

Because natural resources belong to the public, the United States (US) Congress established the Sikes Act (16 United States Code [USC] 670a et seq.) in 1960 to ensure that the Department of Defense (DoD) conserves and protects the natural resources of its lands. Because military lands are generally protected from commercial and residential development, they are some of our nation’s most significant remaining large tracts of land and contain valuable natural resources. In 1997, Congress amended the Act (Sikes Improvement Act) requiring the DoD to manage the natural resources of its installations in a manner that ensures no net loss in the capability of lands to support the military mission while at the same time, sustaining the multipurpose use of natural resources and providing for public access to the extent that such access is not inconsistent with the military mission. To ensure compliance with this directive, the Sikes Improvement Act requires the DoD to develop and implement Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans (INRMPs) for all military installations that have significant natural resources.

This INRMP is for Devens Reserve Force Training Area (DRFTA) located in Devens, Massachusetts. The mission of DRFTA is:

 United States Army Garrison Devens RFTA provides training capabilities, standardized services and sustainable infrastructure enabling the operational readiness of the Total Army Forces and the diverse Devens RFTA community.

Training lands at DRFTA support doctrinal training requirements, mobilization and deployments. Training lands at DRFTA are managed to maximize the capability, availability and accessibility of ranges and training lands to support the mission.

This INRMP was developed in accordance with the Sikes Act and DoD and Army directives including:

 Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 4715.03, Natural Resources Conservation Program (US Army, 2018a);  US Army Environmental Command’s (USAEC) Guidelines to Prepare Integrated Resource Management Plans for Army Installations and Activities – Modified for Small Installations Template (US AEC, 2015a);  The Natural Resource Conservation Program Instruction Manual (DoDI/Manual 4715.03.) (US Army, 2018a); and

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

 The Environmental Protection and Enhancement (Army Regulation [AR] 200‐1) (US Army, 2007).

In accordance with the Sikes Act, this INRMP provides for continued and enhanced cooperation between the US Army, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife), and other appropriate stakeholders for the conservation of natural resources on DRFTA. This INRMP describes DRFTA’s existing natural resource management program and presents practicable alternatives and recommendations for the conservation and enhancement of the installation’s natural resources into the future. The natural resource management program at DRFTA is an integral part of the installation’s military mission sustainment efforts and reflects the Army’s commitment to responsible natural resource management.

In addition to the Sikes Act, this INRMP is also required by DRFTA’s Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) Record of Decision (ROD) document issued in 1996 by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the South Post Impact Area (SPIA) and associated Areas of Contamination (AOCs) (US AEC BRAC Division, 1996). The SPIA is a CERCLA Superfund site for contamination in groundwater associated with historical disposal practices. As a requirement of the ROD for the Superfund site, this INRMP is an important part of the installation’s CERCLA compliance program.

2. Goals, Objectives, and Measures of Effectiveness

This INRMP is DRFTA’s primary planning tool for managing natural resources while ensuring the success and sustainment of the installation’s military mission. It will be used to guide the implementation of the natural resources program on DRFTA from fiscal years 2020 through 2024. The four overarching goals of this INRMP along with the specific objectives that will be used to attain each goal are presented in Table 2‐1.

Table 2‐1: DRFTA Integrated Natural Resource Management Plan Goals & Objectives Goal 1 Maintain the training value of lands required to accomplish and sustain DRFTA’s military mission. Objective 1. Use range monitoring, damage minimization, mitigation, and rehabilitation to maintain and enhance the training value of DRFTA lands in support of current and future military training and operations. Goal 2 Comply with all laws and regulations that pertain to management of the natural resources at DRFTA. Objective 1. Manage natural resources in accordance with State and Federal environmental laws, particularly the Sikes Act upon which this INRMP is predicated.

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

Table 2‐1: DRFTA Integrated Natural Resource Management Plan Goals & Objectives Objective 2. Employ the procedures of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to make informed decisions on all proposed Army actions in a manner that includes consideration of natural resource management goals. Objective 3. Implement this INRMP within the framework of US Army policies and regulations. Objective 4. Protect and manage threatened and endangered species and habitat in accordance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA), NEPA, AR 200‐3, DoDI/Manual 4715.3, USFWS regulations and agreements, and all other applicable laws or guidance from headquarters. Goal 3 Manage natural resources on DRFTA in a manner that assures good stewardship of public lands entrusted to the care of the Army. Objective 1. Use a structured, iterative process of adaptive ecosystem management to protect, conserve, and enhance native fauna and flora, sensitive species, habitats, and wetlands on DRFTA. Objective 2. Implement natural resource management programs that are on a scale compatible with natural processes, are cognizant of nature’s timeframes, recognize social and economic constraints, and are adaptable to complex and changing requirements. Objective 3. Monitor and manage soils, water, vegetation, and wildlife on DRFTA with consideration for the value of all natural communities and for the human values associated with those resources. Objective 4. Provide for human use of products generated from renewable natural resources when those products can be produced in a sustainable manner without significant negative impacts on the military mission or other natural resources. Objective 5. Ensure the coordination of DRFTA’s natural resource management program with installation personnel, soldiers and all other visitors. Objective 6. Create effective partnerships with private, local, State, and Federal entities for the conservation of natural resources and the sustainment of the military mission. Objective 7. Coordinate the enforcement of natural resources‐related laws on DRFTA, including Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 131§ 80A. Goal 4 Provide quality natural resources‐based recreation opportunities that improve the quality of life for those in surrounding communities. Objective 1. Provide high quality opportunities for hunting and other recreational activities. Objective 2. Provide opportunities for non‐consumptive outdoor recreation, such as nature study. Objective 3. Provide conservation education opportunities.

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

3. Installation History

DRFTA’s predecessor, Camp Devens, was established in 1917 on approximately 5,000 acres of land in the towns of Ayer, Harvard, Lancaster and Shirley that was leased then later purchased from private owners. The land consisted primarily of farms along the Nashua River and timber land (Fort Devens Museum, 2019). The original Main Post location was selected for its proximity to a large railroad depot. During World War I Camp Devens served as a temporary cantonment for training soldiers, reception center for draftees, and demobilization and separation center for returning troops. Construction of permanent barracks, a hospital, a cantonment area and other buildings began in 1927 and continued into 1930s. Camp Devens became a permanent military installation in 1932 and was officially renamed Fort Devens.

Fort Devens continued to grow in the early 1940s during World War II with construction of over 1,000 wooden structures and the addition of the airfield and the South Post training area. Fort Devens was placed in a caretaker status in 1946 and reactivated during the Korean Conflict, with construction of additional permanent and temporary buildings through the early 1950s (US Army Reserve, 2001). At its height, Fort Devens encompassed over 9,000 acres.

Fort Devens served as an Active Army Installation until March 31, 1996 when it was realigned as an Army Reserve Installation pursuant to the 1991 Base Realignment and Closure Commission actions and named Devens Reserve Forces Training Area. Most of the North and Main Post Areas were transferred to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or other Federal Government Agencies, including MassDevelopment, a State instrumentality created to oversee redevelopment of former Fort Devens lands. In 2007, the base was reassigned to the U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) and renamed the Fort Devens Reserve Forces Training Area. The Base currently consists of five parcels known as the Main Cantonment Area, the 3400 or Shirley Area, the Airfield Area, the Fort Devens Cemetery, and the South Post Range Complex. Today DRFTA contains 5,130 acres and is the major Army Reserve presence in New England.

4. Natural Resource Management History

A philosophy of multiple uses is reflected in the historical management of natural resources on DRFTA and former Fort Devens lands. Programs for management of natural resources were historically divided into three administrative areas:

 Forestry/Woodland Management,  Fish and Wildlife Management, and  Land Management.

These programs initially functioned as administrative sections under the Land Management Branch, part of the Directorate of Engineering and Housing, on Fort Devens. The first management plan for the installation was the Land Management Plan, developed in 1949. Its purpose was to “provide an overall guide for the utilization of... Fort Devens land areas so as to

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area conserve the Natural Resources, upgrade the living environment, and properly support the Military mission in a manner consistent with established national policy”. Since the early 1950s, DRFTA has continually improved the natural resource program by implementing new plans and improving existing plans. These historical plans provide the foundation for today’s INRMP.

4.1. Land Management

The land management program was initiated on Fort Devens in 1949 when the first Land Management Plan (Fort Devens, 1949) was approved. The plan was subsequently revised in 1958, 1971, and 1979. The plan and its revisions shared the following objectives:

 To coordinate programs that improve, utilize, and maintain land and water areas for the greatest net public benefit while supporting the military mission; and  To provide protection for environmentally sensitive areas (Fort Devens, 1983).

During the early years of the program, particular emphasis was placed on grounds maintenance and landscape management. By the 1960s, controlling erosion on the installation had become a priority. In 1963, Fort Devens entered into a Cooperative Agreement with the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) for assistance in soil conservation (Fort Devens, 1983). Soil surveys were conducted on the installation by the SCS in 1985 and 1991. To alleviate the environmental impacts of military training and help restore training areas, Fort Devens in collaboration with the SCS, initiated the DoD’s Integrated Training Area Management Program (ITAM) in 1997. The ITAM program has become a core component of DRFTA’s Sustainable Range Program (SRP) and is responsible for maintaining training land on DRFTA to ensure that lands meet the Army’s training requirements.

DRFTA most recently developed an INRMP in 2001 which will be superseded by this document.

4.2. Woodland/Forest Management

Prior to government acquisition in 1941, the landscape of South Post was dominated by farms with some small‐scale industrial activities including forestry for the local pulpwood market (Fort Devens, 1949). Following government acquisition, no timber harvest occurred on the installation from 1941 to 1967 (Fort Devens, 1968). In 1968, Fort Devens initiated a commercial forestry program implemented and managed under Fort Devens’ Woodland Management Plan, approved in 1968 with several subsequent revisions. Since 1967, over 3,500,000 board feet of pine and hardwood saw timber have been harvested on DRFTA. As the pulpwood market declined in the 1970’s and oil prices rose sharply, timber harvest shifted from pulpwood to predominantly hardwoods for home heating. Beginning in 1980, Fort Devens initiated a program to improve the health of timber stands focused on improving softwood and hardwood stands. Since 2001, Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping and aerial photography have been used to track timber composition, invasive species, and insect pests as part of the natural resource management of forested lands on DRFTA. At present there is no timbering occurring on DRFTA due to unfavorable market conditions.

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

4.3. Fish and Wildlife Management

Active wildlife management has occurred on DRFTA since 1954 when a Fish and Wildlife Section was created within the Post Engineer Organization of Fort Devens, and the first Fish and Wildlife Management Plan was completed (Fort Devens, 1954). From 1954 to 1959, wildlife management was limited to fisheries and improving fishing waters (Fort Devens, 1981). In 1957, a trout stocking program was started on the installation with the assistance of MassWildlife. By the late 1960s, about 127 acres of lakes and ponds and nine miles of streams were managed for fish habitat (Fort Devens, 1983).

Initially, hunting and fishing on the installation were restricted to military personnel. However, in 1960, fishing and hunting privileges were extended to civilians. In 1963, the first Cooperative Agreement was signed between the Garrison Commander and MassWildlife. In support of fish and wildlife management on DRFTA, MassWildlife initiated a trout stocking program in specified waters on the installation. In addition, pheasant, and snowshoe hare were introduced in game management areas. As part of its wildlife management, the Fish and Wildlife Section of DRFTA’s Directorate of Public Works (DPW) promoted habitat improvement by growing food plots for foraging wildlife (e.g., deer, turkey, and waterfowl) and posting nesting boxes for breeding birds (e.g., Wood duck), among other activities. At present DRFTA has a small game, turkey and deer hunting program.

Recreational fishing at DRFTA is restricted due to safety and public health concerns. The majority of fishable waters on Fort Devens extend into the SPIA. For a discussion of potential contaminants associated with the SPIA, refer to the long term monitoring documents available on the EPA’s website: https://cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/cursites/csitinfo.cfm?id=0100966. Moreover, as access to DRFTA is restricted and access is unrestricted to a large number of fishable waters in the vicinity of DRFTA (e.g., Nashua River), recreational fishing and consumption of fish from DRFTA waters will not be pursued as an INRMP program.

5. Installation Overview

This section provides information on the current DRFTA installation. It covers general installation information, the regional land use and setting, the natural environment, public and affiliate access, and the unique natural resources found at the installation.

5.1. Maps

The key features, constraints, natural resources, and regions of DRFTA are mapped in this INRMP using Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) base maps, DRFTA GIS resources, and open data sources. Sources are noted on the maps and described in applicable text sections. Table 5‐1 provides a list and description of map figures included in Appendix A1.

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

Table 5‐1: DRFTA Figures Included in Appendix A1 FIGURE TITLE DESCRIPTION Depicts all DRFTA parcels that are part of the Figure 1 Draft Installation Map current installation. Military Constraints ‐ Depicts all environmentally‐regulated features Figure 2A South Post including water supply wells, surface water sampling locations, AOCs, and the SPIA at a scale Military Constraints ‐ Figure 2B large enough to view a base map of roads, Northern Areas buildings, and training areas. Environmental Figure 3A Constraints ‐ South Post Depicts natural resources characteristics Environmental pertaining to water and wetlands, recreation, Figure 3B Constraints ‐ Northern and adjacent wildlife management areas. Areas Depicts DRFTA’s location within the local area DRFTA Regional Figure 4 and shows water resources features, town Overview borders, county boundaries, and highways. Depicts Natural Resources Conservation Service Figure 5 DRFTA Soils (NRCS) soil types throughout DRFTA. Figure 6 DRFTA Vegetation Depicts vegetative communities on DRFTA. Depicts Priority Habitats of Rare Species and Natural Heritage and Estimated Habitats of Rare Wildlife Projects in Endangered Species these areas which could alter habitats are Figure 7 Program (NHESP) Priority subject to regulatory review by the NHESP. (MA and Estimated Habitats DFG and TNC, 2012 and MassGIS and NHESP, 2017a and 2017b). Depicts Core Habitats and Critical Natural Landscape identified in BioMap2 which together identify key areas for conserving biodiversity. Figure 8 BioMap2 Habitat Priority Natural Communities and Species of Conservation Concern overlays are also included. (MA DFG and TNC, 2012).

5.2. Installation Information

DRFTA is located approximately 35 miles northwest of Boston, Massachusetts in northern Worcester and western Middlesex Counties. DRFTA is approximately 5,130 acres, consisting of five non‐contiguous parcels: South Post, the Main Cantonment, the 3400 Area, the Airfield, and the Post Cemetery. Table 5‐2 provides a summary of DRFTA parcels. Figure 1 and Figure 4 outline parcel boundaries, locations, and features.

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

Table 5‐2: DRFTA Property Parcels Parcel Approximate Location Uses Size Devens, Administration and Main Cantonment 136 acres Worcester County operations. Equipment storage Devens, 3400 Area 140 acres and maintenance, and Worcester County military functions. Devens, Fully developed Post Cemetery 3.47 acres Worcester County cemetery. Equipment storage Ayer, Airfield 14 acres and unused building Middlesex County space. Towns of Harvard and Training areas, ranges, South Post 4,837 acres Lancaster, Worcester and the Turner Drop County Zone.

DRFTA is designated as a Strategic Support Area (SSA) and provides combat, combat support and combat service support units with a tough and realistic environment to train in preparation for expeditionary operations. South Post is the primary location where tactical training takes place. South Post comprises 4,797 acres and includes 22 firing/demolition ranges, duded and non‐ duded impact areas, an ammunition supply point, a drop zone and numerous non‐firing facilities. It contains approximately 2,814 acres of maneuver land (1,759 acres of light maneuver and 1,055 acres of heavy maneuver lands) and 1,419 acres of impact area. Training on South Post includes individual small arms training, small unit level training with limited maneuver capability, and company level Mission Essential Task List (METL) training.

5.3. Regional Land Use and Setting

Towns adjacent to DRFTA include Bolton to the southeast, Lancaster to the southwest, Harvard to the east, Ayer and Shirley to the north, and Leominster to the west. Devens, a MassDevelopment planned community consisting of parcels of former Fort Devens land, surrounds the Main Cantonment, Cemetery, and 3400 Area. The City of Fitchburg, with a population of about 41,000, is the largest nearby city. DRFTA’s regional setting is shown in Figure 4. The region surrounding DRFTA is largely rural residential with increasing suburbanization.

DRFTA lies within the Nashua River Watershed. Conservation lands are abundant in the area near DRFTA. Bordering South Post is the USFWS’s Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and MassWildlife’s Bolton Flats Wildlife Management Area. Both were created during the BRAC process by the transfer of former Fort Devens lands from the Army to their respective owners. Additional natural areas in the vicinity of DRFTA include:

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

 Devens Open Space (1,700 acres of protected environmentally sensitive areas including lakes, bogs, and steep slopes owned by MassDevelopment);  The Groton Memorial Forest (523 acres owned by the Town of Groton);  The Cowdrey Nature Center (313 acres owned and managed by Town of Lunenburg Conservation Commission);  The Leominster State Forest (4,246 acres publicly owned forest managed by Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation in Town of Leominster, City of Fitchburg, Town of Princeton, Town of Sterling and Town of Westminster);  Bare Hill Pond (320‐acre pond in the Town of Harvard);  Lake Shirley (354‐acre reservoir with dam owned by the Town of Lunenburg);  Sandy Pond (largest of six interconnected ponds owned by the Town of Ayer);  Fort Pond (79‐acre state pond in Town of Lancaster); and  Spectacle Pond (66‐acre state pond in Town of Lancaster).

5.4. Natural Environment

This section describes the different elements that make up the natural environment at DRFTA. It covers climate, air quality, topography, geology, hydrology, and eco‐regions found at the installation.

5.4.1. Climate

DRFTA experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers, cold winters, and mild springs and falls. The average annual temperature at DRFTA is 47.8°F. January is the coldest month, with an average low of 17°F. July is the warmest month with an average high of 79°F. Precipitation is relatively stable throughout the year, with an average rainfall of about 48 inches and an average snowfall of 64 inches (US Climate Data, 2019).

5.4.2. Air Quality

As of 2017, all areas of Massachusetts met National Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for all criteria pollutants set by the EPA under the authority of the Clean Air Act (CAA) (MassDEP, 2018). Impacts to air quality from activities on DRFTA include emissions from boilers, backup generators, and vehicles. Other impacts to air quality for DRFTA include the use of smoke as an obscurant in training, occasional wildfires caused by range use, and some dust generated by maneuver activities. In addition to existing impacts, planned prescribed burning as a natural resource and training land management tool may also impact air quality. DRFTA has a Final Restricted Emissions Status Approval issued by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and is in compliance with all permit requirements.

5.4.3. Topography

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

DRFTA has a glaciated topography that includes wetlands, floodplains, hilly uplands, and steep slopes. Elevations generally range between 250 and 400 feet above mean sea level (MSL). The installation’s highest point, Whittemore Hill, on South Post, is 455 feet above MSL while the lowest elevations are along the Nashua River near the 3400 Area, approximately 200 feet above MSL. The Main Cantonment, 3400 Area, Cemetery, and Airfield are relatively flat or gently sloping lands while South Post contains rolling terrain with hills and steep slopes.

5.4.4. Geology

The geology of DRFTA consists mainly of glacial alluvium and swamp deposits overlying metamorphic bedrock. Much of DRFTA’s surficial geology can be attributed to the retreat of the continental ice sheets during the Wisconsin Glaciation approximately 10,000 to 20,000 years ago. The advance and retreat of ice sheets led to scouring of bedrock and transport and eventual deposition of rock and other geological material. The slow retreat of the ice sheet shaped the landscape, leading to depressions and grooved or smoothed outcrop bedrock. Evidence of past glaciation can be seen in many of the Garrison’s glacial features including kettles, kames, and glacial till hills called drumlins. Whittemore Hill on South Post is one example of the many drumlins on DRFTA.

The bedrock underlying DRFTA is part of the Merrimack Belt, composed of calcareous metasiltstones, phyllite, metasandstones, and quartzites of Paleozoic age (Fracture Characterization document). Low‐angle thrust faults exist along the eastern boundary of the South Post and intense folding and faulting can also be seen in bedrock outcrops. On the South Post, the top 5 to 10 feet of bedrock is highly weathered and clay‐like (USACE, 2012).

5.4.5. Hydrology

DRFTA is located in the Nashua River watershed. The Nashua River forms the eastern boundary of South Post and the 3400 Area. Its tributary, the North Nashua River, flows along the western boundary of South Post. In addition to the Nashua River, a number of small streams, wetland areas, ponds, and kettle lakes are present within the boundaries of DRFTA (Figure 3A and Figure 3B). Surface waters in DRFTA allow for localized groundwater discharge. Groundwater at DRFTA primarily exists in glacial drift deposits that overlie bedrock. The glacial deposits are composed of well‐sorted sands and gravels, with the capacity to store considerable amounts of groundwater. Glacial deposit aquifers in DRFTA are often medium or high yield and are used as a water supply by DRFTA and nearby municipalities. Groundwater also exists in lesser quantities in fractured bedrock beneath glacial deposits. Supply wells that are developed from bedrock aquifers are primarily used as private wells (USACE, 2012).

5.4.6. Ecoregions

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

DRFTA falls within the EPA designated Southern New England Coastal Plains and Hills ecoregion. This region is characterized by irregular plains and low hills. Surface materials are mostly glacial till. A variety of successional oak and oak‐pine forests cover this region. The EPA’s description of this ecoregion is consistent with the surface materials and vegetation found at DRFTA (Griffith et al, 2009).

5.5. Public and Affiliate Access

All portions of DRFTA are secured fenced areas and access is restricted to authorized personnel and visitors. Public access to DRFTA is permitted upon receipt of proper authorization for recreational hunting as described in Section 6.7.2. Affiliate access for natural resources, cultural resources, and historical studies and assessments is permitted through coordination with DRFTA DPW Environmental staff.

In accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), 16 USC 470 et seq., EO 13007 and DODI 4715.03 this INRMP will be coordinated with federally recognized Indian Tribes that have a cultural or historical affiliation with the lands encompassed by the installation. This coordination will happen as part of the Environmental Assessment for this INRMP required under NEPA. There are no known sites or resources of religious or cultural importance to Native Americans on Fort Devens. However, any requested access by Native Americans will be permitted through coordination with DRFTA DPW Environmental staff.

5.6. Unique Natural Resources

DRFTA has numerous unique natural resources throughout South Post and additionally along the eastern property line of the 3400 Area as shown on Figure 3A, Figure 3B, and Figure 8. These natural features which include unique wetland areas, large contiguous mixed forests, and perennial streams and adjacent corridors, provide a variety of aquatic and terrestrial habitats that support a diverse assemblage of plants and wildlife including rare, threatened or endangered species. A brief description of each of these unique features is provided below.

The Black Spruce Kettlehole Level Bog is a 0.8‐acre Kettlehole Level Bog located in the northeast portion of Training Area (TA) 9A, east of Oak Hill Pond (Figure 8). Kettlehole Level Bogs are a subset of level bogs that develop in depressions in sandy glacial outwash and lack inlets or outlets (NHESP, 2016a). Kettlehole Level Bogs are imperiled, indicating that there are between 6 and 20 of these sites present in the state, or there are few remaining acres (MA DFG and TNC, 2012). Additional Black Spruce Bogs are located on DRFTA in wetland areas and are characterized by floating peatland vegetation, black spruce tree canopies, and thick shrub understories.

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The Nashua River Floodplain Alluvial Red Maple Swamp encompasses 54‐acres near TA 13A and TA 13B (Figure 8). Alluvial Red Maple Swamps occur in low areas along rivers and streams and are characterized by unique vegetation due to nutrients deposited by regular overbank flooding (NHESP, 2016b). These swamps are classified as vulnerable, indicating that there are between 21 and 100 of these sites present in the state, or there is limited total acreage (MA DFG and TNC, 2012).

Pitch Pine ‐ Scrub Oak Habitats cover approximately 43.8 acres along the southeastern edge of South Post within TA 6E and the SPIA (Figure 8). Pitch pine‐scrub oak communities are rare, fire‐ dependent communities. They develop on dry, low nutrient soils and provide habitat for many rare species (NHESP, 2016c). Pitch pine‐scrub oak habitat is classified as imperiled, meaning there are between 6 and 20 of these sites present in the state, and/or there are few remaining acres (MA DFG and TNC, 2012).

Wetlands occur extensively on DRFTA, along rivers, streams, tributaries, and drainage channels (Figures 3A and 3B). Wetlands are discussed in more detail in Section 6.4.5 Wetlands, below.

Upland Grassland Habitat is a unique 190‐acre area in the Turner Drop Zone (Figure 2A) that provides nesting, brood rearing, and roosting cover for a variety of mammal and bird species including game species such as quail, pheasant, and wild turkey. More importantly, grassland habitat is a breeding habitat for state listed Grasshopper Sparrow and other sensitive species.

6. Natural Resource Management Program Elements

This section describes the various elements of the natural resource management program at DRFTA. It covers the current status of the program elements and action items for the program going forward.

6.1. Geographic Information System Development

The US Army Installation Geospatial Information and Services (IGI&S) Program provides a standardized approach to geospatial data management. DRFTA creates and maintains geospatial data according to the IGI&S program, which uses the Spatial Data Standards for Facilities, Infrastructure, and Environment (SDSFIE) (US Army, 2019). The ITAM SRP GIS Program and the DPW contribute to the geospatial database at DRFTA. DPW and ITAM GIS specialists continually add to the database as new studies are completed and modify historic reports and data to fit the geospatial data standards. Additionally, DRFTA coordinates with state and federal agencies to share GIS data. DRFTA’s GIS data includes layers that delineate natural resources and are used to support natural resources planning and conservation.

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Information Systems and GIS Action Items:

 Develop, update, and maintain the GIS data layers needed to support DRFTA’s natural resource program.  Regularly replace or upgrade GIS and imagery hardware and software to maintain the capability to use developing GIS technology.  Use remote imagery for improved decision‐making for natural resource management.  Ensure continued coordination between the Natural Resource Specialist, Range Control, the DPW and Environmental Division staff, and the ITAM Coordinator for successful use of GIS data in planning and decision‐making.  Continue to share GIS data with local, state and federal agencies as appropriate for the management of natural resources.

6.2. Climate Change Management

Projected changes in climate will likely affect natural resource management strategies and decisions at DRFTA. This section describes the installation’s main climate change threats and the management strategies that will be used. This section incorporates the following state and federal guidance documents:

 Department of Defense Directive (DoDD) 4715.21 Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience (DoD, 2016);  US Army Guidance for Addressing Climate Resiliency in Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans (US Army, 2018b); and  Massachusetts State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP), Chapter 5 (MassWildlife, 2016).

Climate change effects observed at DRFTA are consistent with those experienced in the New England Region. As directed by DoDD 4715.21, DRFTA will identify and assess the effects of climate change on its natural resources. Employing the Army Climate Assessment Tool (US Army, 2018c), DRFTA will assess its vulnerabilities to climate change and promote increased climate awareness at the Garrison. DRFTA will work with local, regional, state, and federal partners to monitor factors indicative of climate change in order to avoid adverse impacts when and where possible.

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Table 6‐1: Climate Change Strategies at DRFTA Natural Resources Threat INRMP Management Strategy Affected Increased Habitat, Flora and Semi‐annual monitoring of invasive species as part of prevalence of Fauna. the Range and Training Lands Assessment (RTLA). invasive species. Planting of native species in bare areas to prevent wind and maneuver erosion and inhibit the growth and expansion of invasive plant species. Monitoring of reports of new invasive species in the region from local, regional and state partners. Loss of habitat Habitat, Flora and Surveying and management of listed endangered and for threatened Fauna. threatened species in cooperation with state and and endangered federal partners. species. Increased Habitat, Flora, Monitoring of impacts to native flora and fauna duration and Fauna, and particularly migratory birds whose breeding and intensity of high Migratory Birds nesting behaviors may be significantly impacted by temperatures longer, hotter, and drier summers. and associated drought Increased Habitat, Water Short term: Closing access to flooded areas to allow incidence of Resources for natural drainage. Surveillance and maintenance of severe weather existing drainage conduits. events. Long‐term: Consideration for flood hazard risks in land use planning, roadways, and bridges. Increase Habitat Development and implementation of a Wildland Fire incidence of Management program that includes prescribed wildland fires burning to alleviate potential impacts.

Climate Change Action Items:

 Manage natural resources in a manner consistent with best available science to provide resilience to climate change.  Perform Phase I: Climate Awareness Module and Phase II: Vulnerability Assessment Module using the Army Climate Assessment Tool Website to use as a planning framework.  Perform Phase III: Follow‐on Actions using the Army Climate Assessment Tool Website.

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6.3. Soil Conservation and Erosion and Sedimentation Control

DRFTA has a glaciated topography ranging from wetlands and floodplains, to hilly uplands. Slopes in excess of 15% occur in a number of locations on South Post (Fort Devens, 2016a). Soil surveys have been performed historically at DRFTA, Worcester County, and Middlesex County. The NRCS publishes current soils surveys and updates on its online Web Soil Survey (https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/WebSoilSurvey.aspx) (NRCS, 2019). Figure 5 shows the NRCS soil series mapped for the Web Soil Survey spatial data for DRFTA. Table 6‐2 lists the soil series in “map units” and acreages/percentages at the property.

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Table 6‐2 Soil Series Map Units at DRFTA Approximate Area Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Percent within (acres) DRFTA 3400 Area 653 Udorthents, sandy 59.02 1.2 253A Hinckley loamy sand (0‐3) 52.27 1.0 262E Quonset loamy sand (25‐35) 15.34 0.3 51A Swansea muck (0‐1) 10.98 0.2 1 Water 2.66 0.1 2A Pootatuck fine sandy loam (0‐3) 2.40 <0.1 626B Merrimac‐Urban land complex (0‐8) 0.08 <0.1 Airfield 656 Udorthents‐Urban land complex 8.06 0.2 259B Carver loamy coarse sand (3‐8) 0.90 <0.1 255B Windsor loamy sand (3‐8) 0.18 <0.1 Main Cantonment 651 Udorthents, smoothed 93.20 1.8 262A, 262B, 262C, 262D Quonset loamy sand (0‐3, 3‐8, 8‐15, 39.12 0.8 15‐25) 245A, 245E Hinckley loamy sand (0‐3, 25‐35) 3.82 0.1 31A Walpole sandy loam (0‐3) 0.08 <0.1 Post Cemetery 262B Quonset loamy sand (3‐8) 2.84 0.1 102C Chatfield‐Hollis‐Rock outcrop 0.63 <0.1 complex (0‐15) South Post 255A, 255B, 255C, 255D Windsor loamy sand (0‐3, 3‐8, 8‐15, 1002.8 19.7 15‐25) 8 245A, 245B, 245C, 245D, Hinckley loamy sand (0‐3, 3‐8, 8‐15, 953.41 18.7 245E 15‐25, 25‐35) 262A, 262B, 262C, 262D Quonset loamy sand (0‐3, 3‐8, 8‐15, 596.06 11.7 15‐25) 305B, 305C, 305D, 306B, Paxton fine sandy loam (0‐8, 3‐8, 8‐ 305.95 6.0 306C, 307D 15, 15‐25) 52A Freetown muck (0‐1) 226.71 4.5 31A Walpole sandy loam (0‐3) 211.75 4.2 254A, 254B, 254C Merrimac fine loamy sand (0‐3, 3‐8, 186.50 3.7 8‐15) 51A Swansea muck (0‐1) 123.28 2.4 248B Amostown and Belgrade soils (3‐8) 119.28 2.3 651 Udorthents, smoothed 116.61 2.3

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Table 6‐2 Soil Series Map Units at DRFTA Approximate Area Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Percent within (acres) DRFTA 1 Water 103.57 2.0 249A Deerfield loamy fine sand (0‐3) 100.59 2.0 226B Hinesburg loamy sand (3‐8) 79.34 1.6 5A Saco silt loam (0‐3) 78.47 1.5 6A Scarboro mucky fine sandy loam (0‐3) 74.29 1.5 310A, 310B, 311B Woodbridge fine sandy loam (0‐3, 3‐ 71.69 1.4 8) 70A, 70B, 71A, 71B Ridgebury fine sandy loam 69.18 1.4 30A Raynham silt loam (0‐3) 68.89 1.4 260A, 260B Sudbury fine sandy loam (0‐3, 3‐8) 59.75 1.2 276A Ninigret fine sandy loam (0‐3) 57.60 1.1 8A Limerick silt loam (0‐3) 50.01 1.0 72A Whitman loam (0‐3) 37.18 0.7 102C Chatfield‐Hollis‐Rock outcrop 30.39 0.6 complex (0‐15) 98A Winooski very fine sandy loam (0‐3) 22.30 0.4 97A Suncook loamy fine sand (0‐3) 13.42 0.3 275B, 275C Agawam fine sandy loam (3‐8, 8‐15) 11.79 0.2 600 Pits, gravel 10.16 0.2 420B, 421C Canton fine sandy loam (3‐8, 8‐15) 9.30 0.2 96A Hadley very fine sandy loam (0‐3) 6.66 0.1

The predominant soil type on DRFTA is the Hinkley Merrimac Windsor association. This dry sandy gravelly soil contains loams or sandy loams, loamy fine sands, and other sands and gravel. The soil is extremely well‐drained. Additional soil types found on the Garrison include generally sandy and well‐drained soils in upland areas and poorly drained soils in wetland areas and along the Nashua River floodplain. The natural soils in the active ranges are largely disturbed. Soils and soils data/descriptions are inventoried and maintained by DRFTA DPW in GIS. Current surveys are sufficient for natural resource management activities covered in this INRMP.

Soil management is an important component of natural resource management on DRFTA. Current land conditions across DRFTA vary from bare soils prone to erosion, to well stabilized and vegetated areas. Areas susceptible to erosion include roads, firebreaks, maneuver trails, and drop zone areas. Management focuses on stabilization and enhancement of vegetative cover to prevent and control erosion as well as brush removal, erosion control, and culvert replacement. ITAM’s Land Rehabilitation and Maintenance (LRAM) repairs, maintains, and reconfigures DRFTA’s South Post training lands to support sustainable and safe maneuver training conditions. The ITAM Coordinator works continually with Range Control the Natural Resources Specialist and

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the DPW to ensure that landscape management activities and training missions are integrated. (Fort Devens, 2017a).

DRFTA uses the following plans as guidance to maintain training lands:

 Sustainable Range Program Regulation 350‐3 (Fort Devens, 2017b);  Range and Training Land Assessment (Fort Devens, 2017c);  Range Control Management Plan (Fort Devens, 2016a).

The SRP is the Army's overall approach for improving the way in which it designs, manages, and uses its ranges to ensure long‐term sustainability. The SRP is defined by its core programs, the Range and Training Land Program (RTLP) and the ITAM Program. At DRFTA, RTLA and ITAM monitoring projects include:

 Annual erosion monitoring of maneuver trails for use by military vehicles and normal maintenance vehicles.  Semi‐annual vegetation encroachment evaluations for woody encroachment in bivouac areas, maneuver trails, landing zones, and range perimeters.  Semi‐annual military training impact assessments to evaluate impacts from normal use including tree mortality and loss of vegetative cover.

The Range Complex Master Plan (RCMP) provides a road map for developing the ranges and training facilities at DRFTA including integration with the RTLA, SRP, natural resources, and environmental factors. Soil conditions were determined susceptible to erosion when ground covering is damaged through regular training use. Erosion can be exacerbated by wind damage and helicopter blade rotor wash. Planting native species to maintain groundcover on the landing zones will help reduce airborne dust during use of the landing zones. Reducing airborne dust is beneficial to prevent erosion and maintain a good relationship with neighbors, by preventing airborne dust from impacting adjacent landowners, residents, and highways.

Another focus of the RCMP is to control and manage heavy undergrowth and overgrowing forests on maneuver trails where the vegetation impedes movement of soldiers through training areas. Trimming and removal of the dense vegetation optimizes training areas by making them more accessible and safer for light maneuver training. It also decreases wildfire danger, prevents erosion damage and promotes early successional vegetation (Fort Devens, 2017a).

The other significant activity on DRFTA with the potential to cause soil erosion is construction. Projects at DRFTA that disturb an acre or more of surface soil require Construction General Permit (CGP) coverage from EPA issued under the authority of the Clean Water Act (CWA) for stormwater discharges associated with construction projects. Obtaining a CGP requires submitting a Notice of Intent (NOI), developing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) with erosion and sediment control measures, endangered species consideration, historic preservation information, site information, and certification.

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Soil Conservation and Erosion and Sedimentation Control Action Items:

 Repair damaged soils to manage military activities, protect soil stability, preserve training lands, and conserve wildlife habitat.  Use GIS soils data to make decisions regarding land use, rehabilitation options, and habitat management options.  Stabilize roads, maneuver trails and training areas using native grasses, gravel, and woodchips, and by filling and grading ruts.  Minimize new construction in previously undisturbed areas and, when necessary, obtain required permits for land disturbing activities.  Manage soils to preclude or reduce the establishment of invasive plant species.  Maintain grasslands through regular mowing, prescribed burning and removal of underbrush edges and maintenance of ground cover.  Identify and control vegetation to prevent wind and maneuver erosion, prevent growth of invasive species, prevent successional growth, and prevent tick habitats through planting native species and grass cutting.

6.4. Water Resource Management

This section describes the water resources at DRFTA and their management. This section covers surface water, stormwater, groundwater, drinking water, wetlands, and floodplains.

6.4.1. Surface Water

DRFTA is located in the Nashua River Watershed which flows northward toward New Hampshire and is part of the larger Merrimack River watershed. The installation has rivers, perennial streams, intermittent streams, wetlands, ponds, and lakes which are shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3B.

The Nashua River flows north along the eastern boundary of South Post. Most of the streams and tributaries on South Post eventually discharge to the Nashua River. The North Nashua River flows south in close proximity to the southwestern boundary of South Post prior to its confluence with the Nashua River to the south of DRFTA. Ponakin Brook flows from the middle of the South Post to the property line where it discharges to the North Nashua River. Spectacle Brook runs through the western side of the South Post property and also discharges to the North Nashua River. Cranberry Brook flows in a northerly direction to New Cranberry Pond, extending from Trainfire Road near the southern tip of South Post to a dam at Dixie Road. The dam discharges to a meandering stream and wetland that flows to the Nashua River at the eastern property line. Slate Rock Brook flows from the middle of South Post to Slate Rock Pond and then discharges to the Nashua River. Nashua River also runs along the eastern property line of the 3400 Area.

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Slate Rock Pond, New Cranberry Pond, and Oak Hill Pond located on South Post are all artificial ponds formed from historical clay mine and slate quarry damming and excavating. Old Cranberry Pond is a natural pond, formed by glacier ice depressions and connects to the underlying aquifer. Water levels in these ponds are controlled largely by fluctuations in the groundwater table. DRFTA’s surface water bodies are shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3B. Table 6‐3 provides a summary of the ponds and streams with approximate acreages/lengths within DRFTA.

Table 6‐3: Surface Water Bodies at DRFTA Location Pond/Impoundment Approximate Area (acres) Clear Pond 2.94 Cranberry Pond 12.05 Kettle Pond 4.68 Ligett Pond 9.14 South Post New Cranberry Pond 26.19 Oak Hill Pond 2.36 Slate Rock Pond 13.71 Unnamed ponds 43.41 3400 Area Unnamed ponds 2.01 Approximate Length Streams/Rivers (miles) Nashua River 2.8 Ponakin Brook 1.9 South Post Spectacle Brook 1.4 Slate Rock Brook 1.2 3400 Area Nashua River 0.4 Source: DRFTA DPW, 2019.

Surface water monitoring is part of DRFTA’s CERCLA compliance program. In accordance with the EPA’s ROD for the SPIA, DRFTA has a Long Term Monitoring (LTM) program that includes sampling surface water from five locations in the SPIA: three in Kettle Pond and two in Slate Rock Brook. Currently surface water samples are collected from these locations semi‐annually and analyzed for cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX) and perchlorate. Surface water sampling locations are shown in Figure 2A.

The 2018 surface water monitoring results showed that the southern bank of Kettle Pond has the highest perchlorate and RDX surface water concentrations. Trace levels of perchlorate and low levels of RDX were reported in surface water at sampling locations along the middle and north banks of the pond and along the outlet of the pond where it discharges to Slate Rock Brook. No concentrations of RDX or perchlorate were detected in the sample collected from the farthest downstream sampling location in Slate Rock Brook (Renova, 2019). Surface water monitoring in the SPIA will continue in accordance with the 1996 ROD and the most recent Long Term Monitoring and Maintenance Plan (LTMMP) (Sovereign and HGL, 2015).

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Surface water monitoring for CERCLA compliance is not part of the natural resource management program and is not emphasized within this INRMP. However, this monitoring is covered in detail in the LTM Plan (Stone & Webster Environmental Technology & Services, 1996), LTMMP (Sovereign and HGL, 2015), Five Year Review (USACE, 2015) and documented in annual reports (Renova, 2019). For additional information about potential contaminant sources on DRFTA, refer to documents available on the EPA’s website: https://cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/‐ cursites/csitinfo.cfm?id=0100966.

6.4.2. Stormwater

Stormwater at DRFTA is managed through storm drains, stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) and SWPPPs. Storm drain mapping has been compiled for Main Cantonment, 3400 Area, and Airfield. The mapping contains inlets, junctions, drain lines, culverts, and headwalls. South Post and the Cemetery do not have mapped stormwater features at this time.

Municipal stormwater discharges in Massachusetts are regulated by EPA for compliance with the CWA and the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act. Massachusetts and the EPA jointly issue permits for stormwater discharges in Massachusetts. In 2018, DRFTA submitted a NOI for stormwater discharges from small municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4) in Massachusetts, in compliance with the provisions of the CWA, as amended (33 USC § 1251 et seq.), and the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act, as amended (MGL Chapter 21 §§ 26‐53). DRFTA received authorization under the MS4 Permit on 2 July 2019. DRFTA’s MS4 Permit covers the Main Cantonment, 3400 Area, and Airfield. These parcels are located within an urbanized area which triggers the requirement to obtain and comply with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) MS4 permit regulations. South Post is not within an urbanized area and is therefore not subject to MS4 permit requirements. South Post will be managed under the DRFTA Stormwater Management Program to ensure BMPs are implemented installation wide.

The installation has three outfalls that discharge to Nashua River and one that discharges to Robbins Pond. The Nashua River is considered impaired in the Massachusetts 2014 List of Impaired Waters due to elevated levels of phosphorus, E. coli, and invertebrate toxicity (i.e., sediment bioassays – acute toxicity freshwater, and aquatic macroinvertebrate bioassessments). Robbins Pond is also considered impaired due to the presence of non‐native aquatic plants (MassDEP, 2015). DRFTA currently implements SWPPPs for its industrial areas.

6.4.3. Groundwater

Groundwater exists at DRFTA in two geologic formations: glacial drift deposits of sand and gravel, and in fractured bedrock. The primary aquifer is the glacial drift that overlies the bedrock. This aquifer consists of well sorted sands and gravels, fine sands, silt, and clay; and is known as the glacial outwash aquifer. It is capable of supplying relatively large quantities of water. The glacial outwash aquifer is used by DRFTA and nearby municipalities for water supply using gravel‐packed or naturally developed wells. Groundwater present in the fractured bedrock beneath the glacial

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area outwash aquifer is used most frequently for single family domestic water supply private wells in the vicinity of DRFTA. Groundwater flow mimics topography across the South Post and depth to groundwater ranges from 0 to 40 feet. (USACE, 2012)

Groundwater monitoring is part of DRFTA’s CERCLA compliance program. In accordance with the EPAs ROD for the SPIA, DRFTA has an LTM program that includes sampling groundwater from 23 groundwater wells and one hydrant at two AOCs (AOC 26 and AOC 27) and nine South Post Monitoring (SPM) wells shown on Figure 2A in Appendix A1. Groundwater samples are monitored annually or bi‐annually for RDX, perchlorate, arsenic, and metals.

Groundwater monitoring for CERCLA compliance is not part of the natural resource management program and is not emphasized within this INRMP. However, this monitoring is covered in detail in the LTM Plan (Stone & Webster Environmental Technology & Services, 1996), LTMMP (Sovereign and HGL, 2015), and Five‐Year Review (USACE, 2015), and documented in annual reports (Renova, 2019).

6.4.4. Drinking Water

Drinking water at the Main Cantonment and 3400 Area is supplied by MassDevelopment. Drinking water on South Post is provided by four drinking water wells shown on Figure 2A. Drinking water wells on South Post are permitted by the MassDEP as a transient non‐community (TNC) Public Water Supply (PWS).

6.4.5. Wetlands

Wetland areas and riparian zones are critical ecosystems that provide habitat for many rare and endangered species and perform important water management functions including:

 Regulating stormwater and flood flows by absorbing excess water;  Preventing erosion by dampening high velocity flows and surges; and  Improving water quality by filtering water through both physical and biological processes.

The extensive and regionally significant wetlands occurring on and adjacent to DRFTA including associated tributary drainages and headwaters, have been listed as a priority for protection under both the North American Waterfowl Management Plan and the Emergency Wetlands Resources Act of 1986. DRFTA protects its wetlands in accordance with Executive Order (EO) 11990 and manages wetlands based on a no net loss philosophy. The US Congress enacted the CWA in 1972 to “restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation’s waters.” Section 404 of the CWA establishes a program to regulate the discharge of dredged and fill material into Waters of the United States (WOTUS), including wetlands, through a permitting process. The EPA and the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) jointly implement and enforce Section 404. The agencies define wetlands as “areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.” USACE issues jurisdictional determinations to determine whether a water will be regulated under Section 404.

In 2015, the EPA and the USACE published the Waters of the United States Rule, WOTUS 2015, to clarify water resource management in the United States under a provision of the CWA of 1972. The rule was published in response to the concerns of legislators, industry members, science professionals, and others about lack of clarity in defining “navigable waters” requiring federal protection under the CWA. The regulation defined the scope of federal water protection in a more consistent manner, particularly over streams and wetlands which have a significant hydrological and ecological connection to traditional navigable waters, interstate waters, and territorial seas. The rule has been contested in litigation with twenty‐four states obtaining injunctions that halt enforcement of the 2015 WOTUS rule within their borders. Currently, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts along with twenty‐five other states, the WOTUS 2015 rule is in effect. Under federal jurisdiction, any tributary or upstream water on DRFTA, must show physical features of flowing water such as a bed, bank, and ordinary high water mark to warrant protection. The rule provides protection for headwaters that have these features and have a significant connection to downstream water such as the Nashua River. Adjacent waters are defined by three qualifying circumstances established by the rule. These can include wetlands, ponds, impoundments, and lakes which can impact the chemical, biological or physical integrity of neighboring waters.

Wetland studies that have been conducted on DRFTA include a 2000 US Geological Survey (USGS) delineation of four wetland complexes associated with major drainages at South Post. That delineation served to document changes in the type and extent of the four wetland complexes identified by the MassDEP Wetlands Conservancy Program using 1992 aerial imagery. A total of 282 acres, about 35 percent of the total wetland acreage on DRFTA, was surveyed. The survey found that beaver activity had caused significant change in wetland types and distribution since 1992 (Waldron and Steeves, 2002).

The most recent broad‐scale identification and classification of wetlands on DRFTA was the USFWS National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) mapping using aerial photography. The USFWS updated the NWI for DRFTA and the surrounding area using 2014 leaf‐on true color imagery at 1‐meter resolution, the results of which were published in 2018. Polygons were created using heads‐up digitization in addition to editing existing MassDEP wetlands data available through MassGIS (MassGIS, 2013). The USFWS uses the Cowardin et al. (1979) system for classifying wetlands and deep water habitats. The NWI identified approximately 731 acres of wetlands on DRFTA, primarily on South Post (USFWS, 2018a).

In 2018, Normandeau Associates, Inc. delineated a wetland area east of Slate Rock Pond as part of a reconfiguration study for Hotel Range. This study identified five wetland areas and two streams and found four wetlands and one stream to be under CWA regulatory jurisdiction administered by USACE, MassDEP, and Town of Lancaster Conservation Commission. One of the wetlands was observed to provide ideal habitat for waterfowl, wading birds, reptiles/amphibians,

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area and bats (Normandeau, 2018). Oxbow Associates, Inc. performed a vernal pool evaluation of three wetland areas containing potential vernal pools identified by Normandeau. The vernal pool evaluation followed criteria for certification by MassWildlife and generally accepted by USACE New England Division and the Town of Lancaster. One of the three wetlands evaluated, Wetland 4, met MassWildlife Vernal Pool Certification (Oxbow, 2019).

Wetlands at DRFTA provide unique habitats for sensitive species and plant communities. Table 6‐4 shows the wetland types and acreage present at each area of DRFTA. These areas are shown on Figure 3A and Figure 3B.

Table 6‐4: Wetlands at Fort Devens Area (ac) Wetlands South Post 3400 Area Main Cantonment Airfield Freshwater Emergent 166.47 1.88 0.06 ‐ Freshwater Forested/Shrub 378.16 1.70 ‐ ‐ Freshwater Pond or Lake 150.26 0.41 ‐ ‐ Riverine 28.78 3.74 ‐ ‐ Total 723.67 7.73 0.06 ‐ Source: USFWS, 2018a.

Proposed projects that may impact wetlands on DRFTA require federal permits and/or approvals, and DRFTA voluntarily complies with state and local agency regulations. Coordination with USACE, MassDEP, and depending on the project location, the towns of Lancaster, Shirley, Harvard, or Ayer is essential to inform each agency of the proposed project and to obtain a determination of authority regarding jurisdiction over the resources in proximity to the project limits including wetlands, streams, vernal pools, and applicable buffer zones. Table 6‐5 provides regulatory information for wetlands and potential wetlands at DRFTA.

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Table 6‐5: CWA Regulatory Information Applicable to DRFTA ADMINISTRATIVE PROTECTED REGULATED REGULATORY REQUIRED RULE AGENCY RESOURCES ACTIVITIES APPROVALS BUFFERS Federal Dredged and Fill “Waters of the Nationwide Clean Water Act Material USACE and EPA US, including and Individual NA Section 404 Placement in Wetlands” Permits Wetlands Commonwealth of Massachusetts Consistency of Section 404 MassDEP, “Waters of the Section 401 Clean Water Act permitted delegated by US, including Water Quality NA Section 401 activities with the EPA Wetlands” Certification state water quality standards LCC: Any activities involving removal, filling, dredging, or LCC Order of Local other alteration Conditions; Wetlands: 100‐ MassWildlife: Conservation MassDEP foot buffer Waters of the Projects and Commissions oversees zone Wetlands Commonwealth activities proposed in

(LCC) as Estimated Habitat to administration Protection Act and associated Estimated delegated by determine if they will of the Act and resource areas Habitat: no MassDEP, adversely affect the hears appeals adverse effects MassWildlife actual Resource Area of LCC Habitat of state‐ Conditions protected wildlife species Town of Lancaster Bylaw Chapter Waters of the Any activities Wetlands and 215, Wetlands Commonwealth involving vernal pools: Protection, and Lancaster and associated removal, filling, Order of 100‐foot Chapter 306, Conservation buffer zone resource areas, dredging, Conditions Wetlands Commission 25‐foot no‐ and added local construction or Protection Rules build or no‐ requirements other alteration alteration zone and Regulations Devens Activities that Wetland resources: Freshwater could cause 100‐foot wetlands, adverse impacts Wetlands Devens setback and no rivers, streams, from Order of building within Protection Enterprise ponds, and construction ‐ Conditions 50‐setback. Article XII Commission lakes erosion, siltation, Stream, river, pond or loss of bordering groundwater wetland and

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Table 6‐5: CWA Regulatory Information Applicable to DRFTA ADMINISTRATIVE PROTECTED REGULATED REGULATORY REQUIRED RULE AGENCY RESOURCES ACTIVITIES APPROVALS BUFFERS recharge, poor any certified water quality, vernal pool: 25‐foot and loss of setback with wildlife habitat. no alteration of natural vegetation or substrate Town of Shirley Wetland Activities resource Non‐Zoning Waters of the involving areas: Wetland Bylaw Commonwealth Shirley removing, filling, 100‐foot and Residential and associated Order of buffer zone Conservation dredging, or and Commercial resource areas, Conditions 25‐foot Commission discharging into, Permitting and added local undisturbed or otherwise vegetated strip Guidebook requirements altering No structures within 40‐feet Town of Harvard Setbacks from edge of wetlands: Wetland dependent structure 0‐ foot No disturb vegetated Wetlands Wetlands, Activities that zone 50‐foot Protection Harvard water may have Driveways, Bylaw Rules Order of roads 75‐foot Conservation resources and adverse impact Chapters 119 Conditions Chemical free Commission adjoining land on wetland or and 147 and zone 100‐foot areas other resource Underground Forms storage of gas, oil, fuels 100‐ foot Vernal pool setback: No disturb vegetated zone 100‐foot Town of Ayer Ayer Wetland and Remove, fill, Wetlands Order of Wetlands and Conservation buffer zone dredge, discharge Protection Conditions vernal pools: Commission resource areas into, or otherwise

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

Table 6‐5: CWA Regulatory Information Applicable to DRFTA ADMINISTRATIVE PROTECTED REGULATED REGULATORY REQUIRED RULE AGENCY RESOURCES ACTIVITIES APPROVALS BUFFERS Bylaw, Article alter any wetland 100‐foot XXVI resource area or buffer zone

buffer zone resource area Table adapted from Normandeau, 2018

Vernal pools are temporary bodies of fresh water that provide important habitat for many vertebrate and invertebrate species (NHESP, 2009). There is one certified vernal pool just outside the DRFTA installation boundary at the southern end of South Post (Figure 3A). The vernal pool was certified in 2014 based on the presence of obligate species (MassGIS and NHESP, 2018).

Potential vernal pools have been identified across the state by NHESP using aerial imagery. Imagery flown in 1999 and 2000 was used to identify 39 potential vernal pools at South Post, and three potential vernal pools at the 3400 Area (MassGIS and NHESP, 2013). Two potential vernal pools were identified during the 2018 wetland delineation adjacent to Hotel Range and Slate Rock Pond (Normandeau Associates, 2018). In 2019, Oxbow Associates, Inc. performed a vernal pool evaluation of three wetland areas containing potential vernal pools identified by Normandeau and found that one potential vernal pool in Wetland 4 meets MassWildlife Vernal Pool Certification criteria. The vernal pool evaluation criteria are generally accepted by USACE New England Division and the Town of Lancaster. (Oxbow, 2019). The vernal pools types and locations are provided in Figure 3A.

6.4.6. Floodplains

Floodplain areas along the Nashua River and North Nashua River are core and critical habitat areas within the wetlands and riparian ecosystems of DRFTA. The Nashua River floodplain along the eastern boundary of South Post, shared with the Oxbow NWR, is one of the widest Nashua River floodplains and contains extensive wetlands as well as an Alluvial Red Maple Swamp priority natural community. FEMA mapped 100‐year floodplain areas along this portion of the Nashua River and to the east of the North Nashua River between the southwest property line and Ponakin Brook, and along the eastern portion of the 3400 Area where it borders the Nashua River. Floodplains in and adjacent to DRFTA are shown on Figure 3A and Figure 3B.

DRFTA complies with EO 11988 and EO 11990 and coordinates with applicable town laws to avoid actions that impact floodplains and wetlands and avoid development with a floodplain when an alternative elsewhere is available.

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Water Resources Action Items:

 Prevent and minimize erosion and sediment entering surface water bodies.  Continue to update wetland data layers in GIS as wetlands are surveyed.  Perform wetlands delineations for proposed projects near streams and wetlands. Consult with agencies and adhere to applicable wetland regulations.  Manage wetlands to ensure no net loss (EO 11990).  Inventory and certify vernal pools and avoid and minimize impacts to these areas. Perform egg mass surveys at vernal pools to improve baseline data for sensitive species including Blue Spotted Salamanders.  Inventory culverts and assess culvert impacts on the connectivity of aquatic habitat. Upgrade deficient culverts.  Inventory dams and evaluate opportunities for habitat restoration by dam removal.  Develop and implement a Phragmites management plan that includes an inventory of Phragmites stands, control plans for stands posing a risk to nearby sensitive communities or rare species habitat through containment or herbicide use, and prevention of impacts to native Phragmites (Phragmites australis americanus) which may occur.

6.5. Sensitive Species Management

The conservation of sensitive species and their habitats is an important part of the natural resource management program at DRFTA. This section identifies the sensitive species known to occur on DRFTA and their management. Table 6‐6 provides a list of sensitive species that may occur or are known to occur on DRFTA.

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Table 6‐6. Sensitive Species and Species of Concern at DRFTA Reference / Scientific Common Federal State Installation Agency Habitat/Locations Name Name Status Status Presence Correspondence Mammals and Birds Myotis Northern Long‐ Threatened Endangered Historical USFWS, 2018b  Hollow trees, caves, mines septentrionalis eared Bat Presence USFWS, 2018c Sorex palustris Water Shrew ‐‐ Special Concern Present ABB, 1993  Vernal pools, lakes, ponds  Forested swamps Birds Ammodramus Grasshopper MBTA Threatened Present ABB, 1993  Sandplain grasslands, pastures, savannarum Sparrow MassWildlife, 2019 hayfields, and airfields Lockwood, 2009  Open knolls, sandplains within 2011, 2013 Pine Barrens  Habitats with relatively low stem densities and limited ground liter  Turner Drop Zone Antrostomus Eastern MBTA/BCC Special Concern Present ABB, 1993  Young forests and shrublands vociferus Whip‐Poor‐Will Lockwood, 2009  Pitch pine/scrub oak upland MassWildlife, 2019 forests  High integrity fire‐influenced Barrens communities  Barrens Batramia Upland MBTA Endangered Present ABB, 1993  Open expanses of grassy fields longicauda Sandpiper MassWildlife, 2019 and hay fields Lockwood, 2009,  Grassy strips adjacent to 2010 runways and taxiways of airports and military bases  Turner Drop Zone Botaurus American MBTA Endangered Present ABB, 1993  Marshes and wet meadows lentiginosus bittern Lockwood, 2009  Peatlands Circus cyaneus Northern MBTA Threatened Present ABB, 1993  Nests and feeds in wet Harrier Lockwood, 2009 meadows, grasslands, abandoned fields, and coastal and inland marshes  Winters on offshore islands and along the coast Dendroica striata Blackpoll MBTA Species of Present ABB, 1993  Uses young stands of warbler Concern Lockwood, 2009 evergreens and alder or willow thickets to breed  Migration in evergreen and deciduous forests Falco peregrinus Peregrine falcon MBTA Threatened Present ABB, 1993  Prefers wide‐open spaces, and Lockwood, 2009 thrives near coasts where shorebirds are common Gavia immer Common loon MBTA Special Concern Present ABB, 1993  Breeds on quiet, remote Lockwood, 2009 freshwater lakes  Sensitive to human disturbance  Winter migration on lakes, rivers, estuaries, and coastlines. Haliaeetus Bald eagle BGEPA, MBTA Threatened Present ABB, 1993,  Forested areas adjacent to leucocephalus Lockwood, 2009 large bodies of water

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Table 6‐6. Sensitive Species and Species of Concern at DRFTA Reference / Scientific Common Federal State Installation Agency Habitat/Locations Name Name Status Status Presence Correspondence Podilymbus Pied‐Billed MBTA Endangered Present ABB, 1993  Marshes, lakes, large ponds podiceps Grebe Lockwood, 2009  Wetlands with an abundant supply of vegetation to provide cover and nesting materials  Spend winter in open lakes and rivers, estuaries, and tidal creeks Pooecetes Vesper Sparrow MBTA Threatened Present ABB, 1993  Taller woody vegetation gramineus MassWildlife, 2019 interspersed within grassland Lockwood, 2009,  Dry, well drained sites with 2010 mixture of short grass, bare ground, and shrubs, trees  Grasslands/Turner Drop Zone Sturnella magna Eastern ‐‐ Proposed Present ABB, 1993  Turner Drop Zone Meadowlark Special Concern Lockwood, 2009  Breeds in grasslands, MassWildlife, 2019 meadows, weedy pastures Invertebrates Danaus plexippus Monarch Under Review ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  Open fields and meadows with Butterfly milkweed Euchlaena Sandplain ‐‐ Special Concern Present ABB, 1993  Fire‐influenced Barrens madusaria Euchlaena MassWildlife, 2019 communities (with scrub oak and blueberry understories)  Host plant: Polyphagous, often lowbush blueberries (Vaccinium spp.) Lycia rachelae Twilight Moth ‐‐ Endangered Unknown MassWildlife, 2019  Fire‐influenced Barrens communities (with scrub oak and blueberry understories)  Host plant: Polyphagous preference for poplars (Populus) and willows (Salix) Psectraglaea Pink Sallow ‐‐ Special Concern Present ABB, 1993  Fire‐influenced Barrens carnosa Moth MassWildlife, 2019 communities (with scrub oak and blueberry understories)  Host plant: Lowbush blueberries (Vaccinium spp.) Speranza Pine Barrens ‐‐ Special Concern Unknown MassWildlife, 2019  Fire‐influenced Barrens exonerata Speranza communities (with scrub oak and blueberry understories)  Host plant: Scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia) Zanclognatha Pine Barrens ‐‐ Special Concern Present ABB, 1993  Fire‐influenced Barrens martha Zanclognatha MassWildlife, 2019 communities (with scrub oak and blueberry understories)  Host plant: Pitch Pine (Pinus rigida) Williamsonia Ringed ‐‐ Threatened Unknown MassWildlife, 2019  Acidic sedge fens and lintneri Boghaunter sphagnum bogs with soupy sphagnum pools or troughs, surrounded by woodlands

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Table 6‐6. Sensitive Species and Species of Concern at DRFTA Reference / Scientific Common Federal State Installation Agency Habitat/Locations Name Name Status Status Presence Correspondence Reptiles/Amphibians Ambystoma Blue Spotted ‐‐ Special Concern Present ABB, 1993  Deciduous and coniferous laterale Salamander MassWildlife, 2019 forests (northern hardwoods, spruce‐fir upland) Clemmys guttata Spotted Turtle Under Review At risk Present ABB, 1993  Vernal pools, shrub swamps  Forested swamps  Oxbow NWR Emydoidea Blanding’s Under Review Threatened Present ABB, 1993,  Observed in seasonal pools, blandingii Turtle MassWildlife, 2019, marshes, scrub‐shrub Oxbow Assoc., 2003 wetlands, and open uplands  Wetlands for overwintering during the inactive season Glyptemys Wood Turtle Under Review Watching / Present ABB, 1993  Rivers and large streams, insculpta Oxbow riparian forests, wetlands, hayfields, and other early successional habitats  Oxbow NWR Lithobates Northern ‐‐ Species of Present ABB, 1993,  Along shrubby / marshy pipiens Leopard Frog Greatest MassWildlife, 2019 margins (or floodplains) Conservation  Large shrub swamps near Need streams Terrapene Eastern Box ‐‐ Special Concern Present ABB, 1993  Deciduous/mixed forests carolina turtle  Grasslands Fish Notropis Bridle Shiner ‐‐ Special Concern Present Fort Devens, 2010  Lakes, ponds bifrenatus  Large & mid‐sized rivers  Small streams Plants Carex typhina Cat‐tail Sedge ‐‐ Threatened Present ABB, 1993,  Riparian MassWildlife, 2019 Carex Midland Sedge ‐‐ Endangered Present ABB, 1993  Grasslands mesochorea Cyperus Houghton's ‐‐ Endangered Present ABB, 1993,  Northern hardwoods, spruce‐ houghtonii Flatsedge MassWildlife, 2019 fir, grasslands  Pitch pine‐oak  Riverbanks, sand bars, lakeshores, sand dunes, sandy openings in woods Eleocharis ovata Ovate spike‐ ‐‐ Endangered Present ABB, 1993  Large and mid‐size rivers, sedge lakes, and ponds Elymus Early Wild Rye ‐‐ Watch List Unknown MassWildlife, 2019  Moist, deep, alluvial or macgregorii residual, calcareous or other base‐rich soils in woods and thickets

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Table 6‐6. Sensitive Species and Species of Concern at DRFTA Reference / Scientific Common Federal State Installation Agency Habitat/Locations Name Name Status Status Presence Correspondence Isotria Small Whorled Threatened Endangered Unknown USFWS, 2018c  Older hardwood stands of medeoloides Pogonia beech, birch, maple, oak, and hickory  Acidic soils with a thick layer of dead leaves  Slopes near small streams  small light gaps, or canopy breaks, and generally grows in areas with sparse to moderate ground cover Liatris scariosa New England ‐‐ Special Concern Present ABB, 1993,  Grassland / Barrens var. novaeangliae Blazing Star MassWildlife, 2019 Lupinus perennis Wild Lupine ‐‐ Watch List Present ABB, 1993,  Grassland / Barrens MassWildlife, 2019 Lygodium Climbing Fern ‐‐ Special Concern Unknown MassWildlife, 2019  Forested swamp, shrub palmatum swamp, transitional hardwoods Maianthemum Three‐leaved ‐‐ Watch List Unknown MassWildlife, 2019  Bogs, fens, of wet woods in trifolium Solomon's Seal cool areas Panicum Philadelphia ‐‐ Special Concern Unknown MassWildlife, 2019  Coastal Plain ponds philadelphicum Panic‐grass sp. Senna hebecarpa Wild senna ‐‐ Endangered Present Fort Devens, 2010  Grasslands Sparganium Small bur‐reed ‐‐ Endangered Present Fort Devens, 2010  Lakes and ponds natans Bird Species Classified as MBTA/BCC Only Ammodramus Nelson’s BCC ‐‐ Present USFWS, 2018d  Breeds in wet meadows, nelson Sparrow marshes, and saltmarshes Bubo scandiacus Snowy owl MBTA/BCC ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  Treeless places and wide‐open spaces (e.g. airport field) Calidris alpine Dunlin BCC ‐‐ Present USFWS, 2018d  Winters along a variety of wet arcticola areas including mudflats, marshes, flooded fields, estuaries, and sandy beaches Calidris pusilla Semipalmated MBTA/BCC ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  Winters and migrates along sandpiper Lockwood, 2009 mudflats, sandy beaches, shores of lakes and ponds, and wet meadows Calidris Buff‐breasted MBTA/BCC ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  On migration and in winter subruficollis sandpiper found in dry grasslands (usually short grass), pastures, plowed fields and, rarely, mudflats Cardellina Canada Warbler BCC ‐‐ Present USFWS, 2018d  Mixed conifer and deciduous canadensis forests with a shrubby/mossy understory Coccothraustes Evening BCC ‐‐ Present USFWS, 2018d  Winters in evergreen and vespertinus Grosbeak deciduous forests Coccyzus Black‐billed MBTA/BCC ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  Woodlands and thickets, erythropthalmus cuckoo Lockwood, 2009 including aspen, poplar, birch, sugar maple, hickory, hawthorn, and willow.  Winter in forest, woodlands, and scrub

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Table 6‐6. Sensitive Species and Species of Concern at DRFTA Reference / Scientific Common Federal State Installation Agency Habitat/Locations Name Name Status Status Presence Correspondence Dendroica Prairie warbler MBTA/BCC ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  Bushy pastures, low pines. discolor Lockwood, 2009 Breeds in dry old clearings, edges of forest  Sandy pine barrens with undergrowth of scrub oaks Dolichonyx Bobolink MBTA/BCC ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  Grasslands oryzivorus Lockwood, 2009,  Large fields with a mixture of 2010 grasses/broad‐leaved plants like legumes, dandelions Euphagus Rusty blackbird MBTA/BCC ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  Wet areas, including flooded carolinus woods, swamps, marshes  During the breeding season, bogs, beaver ponds and wet woods in boreal forest Hylocichla Wood thrush MBTA/BCC ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  Mature deciduous and mixed mustelina Lockwood, 2009 forests Limnodromus Short‐billed BCC ‐‐ Present USFWS, 2018d  During migration and on the griseus Dowitcher wintering grounds, found in saltmarshes, lagoons, flooded agricultural fields, and costal mudflats Melanerpes Red‐headed BCC ‐‐ Present USFWS, 2018d  Woodlots in agricultural areas, erythrocephalus Woodpecker dead timber in swamps, and pine savannas Tringa flavipes Lesser MBTA/BCC ‐‐ Present ABB, 1993  Winters in wide variety of yellowlegs Lockwood, 2009 shallow fresh and saltwater habitats Tringa Willet BCC ‐‐ Present USFWS, 2018d  Beaches, bay shores, marshes, semipalmata mudflats, and rocky coastal zones MBTA: Migratory Bird Protection Act BCC: Bird of Conservation Concern (Table adapted from US Army, 2018d Table 3‐2)

6.5.1. Federally Listed Threatened and Endangered Species

The USFWS has, in recent correspondence with the installation regarding proposed projects, identified two federally listed species as potentially occurring at DRFTA: The Northern Long‐Eared Bat (NLEB) and the Small Whorled Pogonia. The management of these species and their respective habitats is regulated under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA), as amended. The ESA protects federally‐listed animal and plant species and their habitats and is administered by the USFWS. Section 7 of the ESA requires coordination and consultation with USFWS to ensure that proposed projects will not adversely impact a listed species or critical habitat.

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6.5.1.1. Northern Long‐Eared Bat (Federally Threatened, State Endangered)

The NLEB (Myotis septentrionalis) is a medium sized bat, characterized by its brown fur and relatively long ears compared with other members of its species. During the summer, NLEBs roost singly or in groups in the cavities and crevices of trees. During the winter, NLEBs migrate to caves and mines to hibernate. Due to white‐nosed syndrome, a fungal disease, NLEB populations have significantly declined, and the species is now federally listed as a threatened species. There have been no recent reported sightings of the NLEB on DRFTA and there are no known hibernacula. There is however a known historical presence of the NLEB on DRFTA and the installation’s mature forest lands provide ideal summer roosting habitat for the species.

Voluntary conservation measures (USFWS, 2019) that DRFTA implements or may implement, include the following. They do not apply to military readiness activities.

 Conduct tree removal activities outside of the NLEB pup season (June 1 to July 31) and/or the active season (April 1 to October 31) to minimize impacts to pups at roosts not yet identified.  Avoid clearing suitable spring staging and fall swarming habitat within a 5‐mile radius of known or assumed NLEB hibernacula during the staging and swarming seasons (April 1 to May 15 and August 15 to November 14, respectively).  Manage forests to ensure a continual supply of snags and other suitable maternity roost trees.  Conduct prescribed burns outside of the pup season (June 1 to July 31) and/or the active season (April 1 to October 31). Avoid high‐intensity burns (causing tree scorch higher than NLEB roosting heights) during the summer maternity season to minimize direct impacts to NLEB.  Perform any bridge repair, retrofit, maintenance, and/or rehabilitation work outside of the NLEB active season (April 1 to October 31) in areas where NLEBs are known to roost on bridges or where such use is likely.  Limit the use of military smoke and obscurants within forested areas that are suitable NLEB habitat during the pup season (June 1 to July 31) and/or the active season (April 1 to October 31).  Minimize use of herbicides and pesticides. If necessary, perform spot treatment rather than aerial application.  Evaluate the use of outdoor lighting during the active season and seek to minimize light pollution by angling lights downward or via other light minimization measures.  Explore ways to participate in actions to manage and reduce the impacts of white‐nose syndrome on NLEBs.

DRFTA will coordinate and consult with the USFWS New England Field Office to employ the 4(d) rule Programmatic Biological Opinion and Section 7 consultation framework for the NLEB and activities that might impact bats. Coordination and implementation of these conservation measures is performed by the garrison’s Natural Resource Specialist. Additionally, NEPA processes such as requiring records of environmental consideration (RECs) for military training and construction activities evaluate impacts on bats.

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6.5.1.2. Small Whorled Pogonia (Federally Threatened; State Endangered)

The small whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) is a member of the orchid family and is characterized by the whorl pattern of the leaves at the top of its stem and beneath its flower. The small whorled pogonia grows to a maximum height on about 14 inches when bearing fruit and has grayish‐green leaves. The plant’s habitat includes mature hardwood forests, and areas with acidic soils and a thick ground layer of dead leaves. The small whorled pogonia is considered a rare species and is federally listed as threatened due to the threat of habitat destruction. No sightings of the small whorled pogonia have been reported at DRFTA. However, the USFWS’s Information for Planning and Consultations (IPaC) shows that there is potential habitat for the small whorled pogonia on DRFTA.

Protection of the small whorled pogonia at DRFTA currently includes surveying for the species in wooded areas in the planning stage for any development, logging, or construction activities. Surveys for small whorled pogonia will be led by individuals with experience identifying this species and performed in summer months (ideally mid‐June through early September). Proactive surveys for small whorled pogonia will be coordinated with USFWS, MassWildlife, and Native Plant Trust to assemble an experienced survey team and determine areas of the property that are more likely than others to contain suitable habitat.

In the event that small whorled pogonias are discovered, protection zones will be placed around colonies using fencing and signs, and personnel will be trained to recognize and identify the plant species to prevent them from being stepped on.

6.5.2. State Listed Species and Species of Concern

In addition to the NLEB and small whorled pogonia, there are a number of other State listed species and species of concern known to occur on DRFTA. DRFTA voluntarily complies with the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA‐MGL Chapter 131A) to protect State listed sensitive species and their habitats. This INRMP provides similar conservation measures for those state‐listed species listed under the ESA to the extent to which those measures are not in direct conflict with the military mission, and includes strategies for maintaining and enhancing habitat for the sensitive species identified below.

6.5.2.1. Grasshopper Sparrow (State Threatened)

The grasshopper sparrow is a species of small sparrow. The species is characterized by its flat head, dark brown crown, and yellow patch on the side of its head that extends from the front its bill to the top of the eye. Grasshopper sparrows are found in grasslands and prairies with warm season grasses and sufficient bare ground for them to nest, hop and run along to escape predators, and forage for invertebrates. The grasshopper sparrow is listed as threatened in Massachusetts due to loss of habitat, agricultural practices, and the natural succession of fields to shrubs and woods. At DRFTA, the grasshopper sparrow is known to occur in the Turner Drop

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Zone which provides desirable habitat in the regionally unique, expansive grassland. Population studies performed from 1998 to 2012 and resumed in 2019 help predict the viability of the grasshopper sparrow population in the Turner Drop Zone.

Voluntary conservation measures that DRFTA implements or may implement for the grasshopper population in the Turner Drop Zone, include the following. They do not apply to military readiness activities.

 Controlling invasive knapweed;  Restricting mowing to outside of the grasshopper sparrows nesting period (May through July);  Using prescribed burning to improve habitat by removing thatch and promoting the growth of warm season grasses;  Limiting maintenance, vehicle, and construction disturbance during the nesting period (May through July); and  Limiting, to the greatest extent practical, vehicle maneuvers to roads and trails from May through August, however, incidental take while conducting military readiness activities is exempted from MBTA restrictions.

The Vesper Sparrow, Upland Sandpiper, and Eastern Meadowlark are known to occur in the same habitat with the Grasshopper Sparrow and will benefit from management strategies for the Grasshopper Sparrow and its habitat.

The implementation of these conservation strategies is coordinated by the garrison’s Natural Resource Specialist and includes using NEPA processes such as RECs for military training and construction activities.

6.5.2.2. Blanding’s Turtle (State Threatened)

The Blanding’s Turtle is a semi‐aquatic, medium‐sized turtle. Distinguishing characteristics of this species include its bright yellow chin and throat, and dark carapace with yellow flecking. In Massachusetts, the Blanding’s Turtle has been observed in a variety of habitats including seasonal pools, marshes, scrub‐shrub wetlands, and open uplands. The decline in the species population is a result of loss of habitat due to development as well as road death, and predation. Additionally, late maturation (14‐20 years) and low nest survival rate have adversely affected this species population. The Blanding’s Turtle is a state‐listed threatened species and is under review for federal listing.

At DRFTA, surveys performed from 1992 through 1994 documented more than 75 individual Blanding’s Turtles foraging in wetlands and nesting in sandy areas. A 2003 follow‐up field survey found an estimated 130 Blanding’s Turtles on DRFTA mainly in the eastern portion of South Post. That survey also confirmed that the turtles moved between South Post and Oxbow NWR (Oxbow, 2003). The Blanding’s Turtle’s continued presence on DRFTA was confirmed in the spring of 2019 by the garrison’s Natural Resource Specialist in ponds adjacent to the Nashua River.

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Voluntary conservation measures that DRFTA implements or will implement for the Blanding’s Turtle include the following. They do not apply to military readiness activities.

 Education and care;  Avoiding construction and maintenance activities in areas where nests may occur during the nesting period between late May and early June;  Limiting, to the greatest extent practical, vehicle maneuvers in terrestrial areas where the Blanding’s Turtles maybe crossing or nesting; and  Educating personnel, soldiers and other garrison visitors prior to the nesting season on the importance of awareness to prevent turtle mortality at road crossings.

In addition to Blanding’s Turtle, population estimates for Spotted Turtle and Wood Turtle on DRFTA will be evaluated. The Spotted Turtle shares a similar habitat with Blanding’s Turtle and is expected to benefit from management strategies listed above. The Wood Turtle’s habitat which includes rivers and large streams, riparian forests, wetlands, hayfields, and other early successional habitats, will be studied to determine suitable management strategies.

The implementation of these management strategies is coordinated by the garrison’s Natural Resource Specialist and includes using NEPA processes such as RECs for military training and construction activities.

6.5.2.3. Eastern Whip‐poor‐will (State special concern)

The Eastern Whip‐poor‐will is a nocturnal bird that thrives in high integrity fire‐influenced Barrens communities. The species is characterized by a small horizontal body with a flat head and bristle bordered beak. The Eastern Whip‐poor‐will has complex habitat needs that include dry, open, woodlands with sparse understory vegetation near meadows and shrublands. It thrives in rare, fire‐dependent pitch pine‐scrub oak communities such as those found on DRFTA. The Eastern Whip‐poor‐will is a state listed species of special concern. Its habitat can be managed through prescribed burning, logging to replicate wildfire, and by limiting development in proximity of known habitats. The bird has been documented at the Turner Drop Zone (Lockwood, 2009) and in the pinelands along Trainfire road.

Current management strategies for the Eastern Whip‐poor‐will on DRFTA include cooperation with MassWildlife on both acoustic and bird bandings surveys and the use of NEPA processes such as RECs for military training and construction activities to protect habitat while maintaining the military mission. Habitat identification, restoration, and management through logging or timber harvest, prescribed burns, and mowing will be developed by DRFTA with support from MassWildlife to enhance Barrens communities that provide valuable habitat for the Eastern Whip‐poor‐will.

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6.5.2.4. Monarch Butterfly (under review)

The Monarch Butterfly is an iconic and at one time, a common butterfly characterized by its bright orange colored wings with black veins. Currently, states including Massachusetts are monitoring the Monarch Butterfly populations and its status remains “under review” due to recent and sharp decline of native populations. Breeding and over‐wintering habitat loss, climate change, predators, and parasites are all believed to have contributed to the species recent population decline. DRFTA is planning to begin actively managing habitats for Monarch Butterflies by planting native varieties of milkweed and pollinator flowers.

6.5.2.5. New England Blazing Star (State special concern)

The New England Blazing Star is a rare perennial plant that grows to approximately two feet in height. It has narrow, hairless stems and leaves, and purple flower heads that bloom in mid‐ August through mid‐October (NHESP, 2015). DRFTA’s sandy soils, grasslands, and barrens provide opportunities for successful propagation of New England Blazing Star as well as Wild Lupine which is currently on the state watch list.

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Sensitive Species Action Items:

 Consult with the USFWS and MassWildlife on all proposed projects that may impact sensitive species and/or their habitats in compliance with ESA and MESA laws and requirements.  Map natural communities and collect baseline data as well as potential/preferred communities resulting from intended vegetation and wildland fire management to improve knowledge of potential habitats for federally and state‐listed species on DRFTA. Coordinate mapping efforts with the USFWS and MassWildlife.  Perform acoustic bat surveys to collect baseline data to confirm the presence or absence of northern long‐eared bats. Survey for underground structures that may be used as hibernacula.  Continue to survey and monitor Grasshopper Sparrow populations. Use prescribed burning to improve the habitat in the Turner Drop Zone.  Resume survey and monitoring efforts for the Blanding’s Turtle.  Survey the Wood Turtle and Spotted Turtle populations, evaluate vitality, and assess condition of habitat critical for reproduction, nesting, and maintenance.  Coordinate with MassWildlife to find opportunities to identify ways to reduce nest predation and prevent road mortality of the Blanding’s Turtle by studying nesting patterns, protecting nesting sites and providing nesting habitat in areas where road crossing is not required. Install fencing and culverts in accordance with the best management practices described in MassDOT’s Linking Landscape program.  Continue to provide education and awareness training for protection of Blanding’s Turtles, especially along roads. Work with the Oxbow NWR to maintain and improve Blanding’s Turtle habitat along the Nashua River floodplain.  Develop a plan to restore woodland Barrens communities that includes the results of natural community mapping, identifying habitat opportunities for Barrens species such as the Eastern Whip‐poor‐will and lepidoptera, and designing a restoration and management plan sequencing timber harvesting, prescribed fire, and mowing.  Actively manage habitats for Monarch Butterflies by planting native varieties of milkweed and pollinator flowers in appropriate areas with consultation from MassWildlife.  Assess opportunities to expand rare plant habitats.  Annually review and update sensitive species management strategies.

6.6. Migratory Bird Management

Migratory bird species are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (Eagle Act). The MBTA provides protection and conservation of specific designated migratory bird species, making it illegal to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, or sell these birds or any of their parts. The Eagle Act protects Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles by prohibiting pursuing, shooting, shooting at, poisoning, wounding, liking, capturing,

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

trapping, collecting, molesting, disturbing, purchasing, or selling them. Many of these species are also provided protection under Massachusetts state law (MGL Chapter 131).

The Bald Eagle is known to breed and winter in Worcester and Middlesex Counties. According to MassWildlife, the number of bald eagles identified in Massachusetts is rising steadily due to restoration and conservation efforts. In 2015 Breeding Pairs were identified in territories close to DRFTA at Lake Shirley and the Merrimack River (NHESP, 2016d). Although still protected under Federal law, the species is no longer federally listed as endangered. It is however still state listed as a threated species.

In Massachusetts, the breeding season for Bald Eagles spans from early winter when courtship begins, to early spring when the female bird lays eggs. The chicks hatch after approximately 35 days of incubation and leave the nest by late summer. Current management recommendations and best practices include protection and enhancement of wetland and forest habitats, and preservation of known breeding, roosting, and wintering areas (NHESP, 2016d).

Other protected migratory bird species at DRFTA include the grasshopper sparrow and the Eastern Whip‐poor‐will, discussed in Section 6.5.1, a wide variety of other birds included in Table 6‐6, and waterfowl including mallard ducks. A 2019 IPaC lists migratory birds that may occur or be impacted by actions at DRFTA (USFWS, 2018d). Migratory grasslands birds and waterfowl are surveyed regularly at DRFTA (Lockwood, various dates, Fort Devens, 2019a). Additionally, migratory hawks and Eastern Whip‐poor‐wills are periodically banded at DRFTA. Current strategies to manage habitats for migratory birds focus on maintaining grasslands at the Turner Drop Zone. Wetlands and waterbodies are actively conserved and maintained for waterfowl habitats.

Migratory Birds Action Items:

 Consult with USFWS and MassWildlife on all proposed projects that may impact migratory bird species and/or their habitats and comply with ESA and MESA laws and requirements.  Continue to survey and monitor Grasshopper Sparrow populations.  Continue to work with MassWildlife and other public and private entities on Eastern Whip‐poor‐will surveys, waterfowl surveys, hawk banding, and other migratory bird studies.

6.7. Fish and Wildlife Management

DRFTA lands support a diverse mix of migratory birds including waterfowl, wading birds, raptors, shorebirds, passerines, as well as resident mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates. The primary goal of wildlife management at DRFTA is to maintain wildlife populations at levels compatible with land use objectives while promoting the conservation of non‐game species. This section describes the fish and wildlife species known to occur on DRFTA with the exception of

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area those presented in Section 6.5 Sensitive Species Management and Section 6.6 Migratory Bird Management.

6.7.1. Fish and Wildlife Species Known to Occur on DRFTA

In 1992, a "Biological and Endangered Species Baseline Study of Fort Devens was conducted (ABB, 1993). In conjunction with this study, a database of all flora and fauna known to seasonally or permanently occur on or migrate through DRFTA was developed. Particular emphasis was paid to rare and endangered biota with reference to those species with protected status under the Federal ESA of 1973, as amended in 1988, and the MESA of 1990. Much of the information provided in this discussion was taken from the 1993 study and from a table complied at that time of confirmed fauna (Fort Devens, 2010). The table of confirmed fauna is included in Appendix A.4. As this data is dated, more current information where available (i.e., updated ecological inventories, MassWildlife BioMap2, USFWS’s IPaC, Mass Audubon, Oxbow) was incorporated in the discussion. The most current versions of both state and federal rare and endangered species lists have been included.

6.7.1.1. Fish

Nineteen fish species were identified as occurring on DRFTA in the 1992 Baseline Survey (ABB, 1993). Aquatic surveys conducted by the USFWS in 1998‐1999 provide additional information on the occurrence of fish species, mollusks, and other macroinvertebrates in waters on South Post. Fish known to occur on DRFTA are listed in Appendix A.4. Of the species known to occur, only one, the bridle shiner (Notropis bifrenatus), is listed (state special concern). Other species known to occur include a number of cyprinid (minnow) and centrarchid (sunfish) species and gamefish species including smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu), largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), brown bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus), yellow perch (Perca flavescens), and chain pickerel (Esox niger).

6.7.1.2. Mammals

Numerous mammalian species occur on DRFTA. The 1992 Baseline Survey identified twenty‐six species of mammals as being known to or expected to occur on DRFTA (ABB, 1993). Mammals known to occur on DRFTA are listed in Appendix A.4., Some of the more common species of mid‐ to large mammals include white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), beaver (Castor canadensis), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), raccoon (Procyon lotor), eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), and woodchuck (Marmota monax). There is also an abundance of voles, mouse, and shrew species. Larger mammals including moose (Alces alces), black bear (Ursus americanus), and coyote (Canis latrans) are also known to occur occasionally on DRFTA. In addition, six species of bats occur on DRFTA. Of the mammals observed on DRFTA, only the Long‐eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis) and the water shrew (Sorex palustris) are designated as high conservation priority species based on Federal or State status. These mammals along with their Federal and State conservation status are listed in Table 6‐6.

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North American beaver (Castor canadensis) are known to inhabit wetlands areas in and around DRFTA. Beaver trapping is conducted as needed when damage, e.g. flooding of roadways, is occurring in the training areas. The most recent trapping event occurred in January 2019 in the Turner Drop Zone. The event was permitted through the Lancaster Board of Health in accordance with Massachusetts Law (MGL Chapter 131§ 80A).

6.7.1.3. Birds

DRFTA lands support a diverse mix of migratory and resident birds including waterfowl, wading birds, raptors, shorebirds, and passerines. Non‐game birds vary from permanent residents, summer breeders, winter residents, to Neotropical migratory birds. One hundred fifty‐two species of birds have been observed on DRFTA (ABB, 1993). Birds known to occur on DRFTA are listed in Appendix A.4. Of the species of birds observed on DRFTA, thirteen are designated as high conservation priority species based on their Federal or State status. These birds along with their Federal and State conservation status are listed in Table 6‐6. Game birds on the installation include the eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus), woodcock (Scolopax minor), Canada goose (Branta canadensis), and Snow goose (Chen caerulescens).

6.7.1.4. Reptiles and Amphibians

Wetlands, vernal pools, ponds and streams, as well as open‐fields and forested areas on DRFTA provide aquatic and terrestrial habitat for a variety of herpetofauna. Fifteen amphibian species (six salamanders, two frogs, and seven frogs) and nineteen reptile species (seven turtles and twelve snakes) are known to occur on DRFTA (ABB, 1993). One salamander type and three frog species were identified in the 2019 Vernal Pool Evaluation (Oxbow, 2019). Reptile and amphibian species known to occur on DRFTA are listed in Appendix A.4. Of these, six species (4 reptiles and 2 amphibians) are designated as high conservation priority species based on their Federal or State status and are listed in Table 6‐6. Additionally, Defense Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC) maintains a database of the herpetofauna species on over 400 military sites (DoD PARC, 2019). DRFTA will use coordinate with PARC to obtain herpetofauna data relevant to the installation.

6.7.1.5. Invertebrates

As part of the 1993 study, an invertebrate survey of DRFTA was conducted. This study found 538 species of Lepidoptera i.e., butterflies and moths, on DRFTA. This same study identified fire‐ related, pitch pine vegetation types and grasslands as important habitats for lepidoptera. A survey of vernal pools in 1992 identified 30 invertebrate species inhabiting these pools at this time (Mello and Peters, 1992). Also, in 1992, a contractor hired through The Nature Conservancy identified eight species of tiger beetles on the installation (ABB, 1993).

During 1998‐2000, macroinvertebrate families (primarily aquatic insects and aquatic snails) inhabiting Slate Rock, Ponakin, and Spectacle brooks were qualitatively surveyed. Results of this

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

study suggest that water quality and stream health increase from Slate Rock Brook to Ponakin Brooke to Spectacle Brook, however, additional studies are needed to verify the results. (Wicklow, 2001). A fishery and mussel survey in 1998‐1999 found only two species of mussels within South Post (USFWS 1999). Additional invertebrates were identified were identified in the 2019 Vernal Pool Evaluation (Oxbow, 2019). Invertebrate species known to occur on DRFTA are included in Appendix A.4.

6.7.2. Hunting Program

DRFTA allows sustainable multipurpose use of natural resources on South Post via authorized public access in accordance with the Sikes Act (16 USC 670a et seq.) where said access does not conflict with the military mission. Due to the constraints of the military mission at DRFTA, outdoor recreational opportunities on DRFTA are limited to hunting on South Post. Trapping is not permitted due to safety concerns and military mission restrictions. On select days during the state’s spring and fall hunting seasons, the installation is open to authorized hunters for deer, turkey, and small game hunting. The installation is not open on all days of the state hunting season and hunters must preregister to participate. Registration for hunting on DRFTA typically opens six weeks to a month in advance of the start of the state hunting season and is advertised on the garrison’s webpage1 and Facebook page. DRFTA does not collect fees for hunting. Hunting slots are awarded using a tiered preference system for military members, retirees, and veterans with remaining slots awarded to the public on a first‐come first‐served basis in accordance with United States Army Fort Devens Standard Operating Procedure Hunting Program (US Army, 2018e). This SOP, the Letter of Instruction (LOI) issued by the Garrison Commander for each hunting season, and other Installation regulations control access to DRFTA for hunting are available on DRFTA’s webpage1. The SOP explicitly requires hunters to comply with all State hunting laws and regulations.

The objective of the hunting program is to provide recreational opportunities for the public and manage the populations of game species. The DRFTA Natural Resource Specialist coordinates, implements, and oversees the hunting program with the primary responsibility for ensuring that it is environmentally sound. Every effort is made to provide an adequate amount of access to DRFTA to achieve MassWildlife’s management objective of a post‐harvest herd of 10 to 15 deer per square mile. The state provides hunters with licenses as well as deer tags/stamps and hunters are required to report harvested deer to MassWildlife.

1 https://home.army.mil/devens/index.php/Misson%20and%20Vision/Garrison/directorate‐public‐works/hunting‐ fort‐devens

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Fish and Wildlife Management Action Items:

 Conduct flora and fauna surveys at established intervals (every 5 years) to evaluate if any changes are occurring to state of federally listed plants/animals known to occur on the installation.  Develop and incorporate management actions into this INRMP during annual reviews if any new candidate, threatened, or endangered species are discovered on DRFTA, or if species already known on the installation become listed.  Document all nongame species incidentally observed during species of concern surveys.  Maintain an updated inventory of plants and animals present on DRFTA. Coordinate with Defense Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation to obtain data collected regarding herpetofauna species at DRFTA.  Ensure access to focused training for natural resource management staff regarding management of fish and wildlife resources on military installations.  Develop a Conservation Law Enforcement Plan (CLEP) as required by DoDI 5525.17 and incorporate into this INRMP upon completion.  Cooperate with state and federal agencies on issues of wildlife management.  Explore collaborative opportunities with local organizations such as the Massachusetts Audubon Society, Boy Scout troops, Girl Scout troops, and other community organizations to complete specific tasks both on and off DRFTA for the benefit of fish and wildlife.

6.8. Vegetation Management

Vegetation at DRFTA consists of forests, grasslands, riparian areas, wetlands, and urbanized lands. Diverse vegetation is found throughout South Post and parts of the 3400 Area that provides high quality habitat for plant and animal species. Historically, vegetation was categorized by habitats into five categories at DRFTA using mapping from aerial photography in 1980 and ground truthing in 1993.

The DRFTA DPW has developed spatial data depicting vegetation classifications at the installation as shown in Figure 6. The data was based on the 2011 National Land Cover Database, which was refined using aerial imagery of DRFTA taken in 2011. This data set grouped vegetation at DRFTA into seven land classification categories with some areas without vegetation or unmapped. Table 6‐7 shows the 2011 vegetative cover at DRFTA with approximate acreages and corresponds to Figure 6.

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

Table 6‐7: Vegetation at DRFTA Approximate Land Classification Area (Acres) Deciduous Forest 1,173 Mixed Forest 1,128 Evergreen Forest 607 Woody Wetlands 783 Shrub/Scrub 178 Emergent Herbaceous 89 Wetlands Herbaceous 46 Turner Drop Zone Grassland 182 (extent is approximate)

6.8.1. Grasslands

Expansive grasslands are some of the most important and unique vegetative cover types on DRFTA. Grasslands comprise about 300 acres of DRFTA (Fort Devens, 2010). The Turner Drop Zone and other large grasslands also provide habitat for game and non‐game species (Fort Devens, 2010). The grasslands consist of meadows surrounded by mature forest and training in these areas depends on the level of woody encroachment as well as density of vegetation growth (RTLA, 2016). Upland grasslands habitats are in danger of decreasing when unmaintained open areas of grasses convert to woodland successional growth. The Turner Drop Zone is the largest of DRFTA’s grassland training areas located and is within the South Post Range Complex.

Currently, the Turner Drop Zone is rapidly shifting from a warm‐season grassland toward a cool‐ season grassland dominated by cool‐season grasses, clonal forbs and low woody vegetation (MassWildlife, 2019). As the Drop Zone currently supports warm‐season grassland obligates such as the grasshopper sparrow a state endangered species discussed in Section 6.5. It is expected that these species will decline if the shift toward a cool season grassland community continues. Restoration and expansion of the warm‐season grassland habitat in the Drop Zone using prescribed fire and herbicide application into grassland habitat management was discussed recently with MassWildlife. Herbicide application, coupled with prescribed fire, for long‐term warm season grassland restoration grassland maintenance, would likely reduce the frequency and extent of mowing without compromising the utility of the Drop Zone for training needs. Warm season grasses mature later than cool season grasses and with rapid growth delayed until late June or early July (MassWildlife, 2019). This would allow mowing to be delayed until after the peak nesting periods for the grasshopper sparrow.

Grasslands on DRFTA support a variety of rare and state‐listed plant species as discussed in Section 6.5. MassWildlife recommends the collection of baseline data to improve knowledge about the distribution and relative abundance of these plants. Rare plant species known to occur include wild lupine and New England blazing star which would also likely benefit from improved

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area grassland management. Grasslands also support many flowering plants that provide critical nectar feeding resources for pollinators. Pollinators include mainly insects (e.g. honeybees) but also birds and animals. Pollinators fertilize plants, resulting in the formation of seeds and the fruit surrounding seeds which is necessary for agriculture but also aids in maintaining the diversity of plant species. Efforts will be made at DRFTA to integrate pollinator species considerations into grassland management strategies.

6.8.2. Forests

Forests are the dominant vegetation type on DRFTA occupying approximately 4,000 acres of the installation. Hardwood forests are the native climax community of the region and also the most common forest type at DRFTA. Previous studies have reported nine types of hardwood communities at DRFTA, along with three types of mixed forest communities and three types of softwood forest communities. Forest cover also includes wooded swamp areas (Fort Devens, 2010). In the early 1990s, the Army conducted intensive inventories for vascular plants, identifying 756 species on South Post. Numerous oak (Quercus spp.), maple (Acer spp.), pine (Pinus spp.), and other hard‐ and softwoods occur. Surveys have also documented numerous lichens, macrofungi, bryophytes, and microalgae species associated with forest habitats (Fort Devens, 2010).

Two unique forest habitats occur on DRFTA: the Nashua River floodplain alluvial red maple swamp and pitch pine‐scrub oak forest described in Section 6.4. The pitch pine‐scrub oak forest on DRFTA support a robust population of the rare Eastern Whip‐poor‐will. The most important factor affecting the Whip‐poor‐will population is to preserve this habitat. This habitat also supports several species of state‐listed Lepidoptera.

Large scale timbering does not currently occur at DRFTA. The cutting or thinning of forest stands are currently handled on a project by project basis. A Woodland Management Plan was approved in 1968 and revised in 1983. A forest classification of South Post was performed in 1998 and stand exams occurred in 2006. In order for forest management to be consistent with training needs, the RTLA addresses forest maintenance features in the inspection checklists such as: tree mortality, canopy cover, vehicle damage, invasive flora (RTLA, 2016).

Forests on DRFTA may support the federally endangered NLEBs. DRFTA uses recommendations from USFWS New England Field Office for tree removal and forest management to protect the species, which roosts in these trees. Tree species that my provide roosting habitat include black and red oak, silver and sugar maples, hickories, American beech, short‐leaf pine, hemlock, birch, and spruce. If single, multiple, or a cluster of trees will be removed during the active roosting season in areas where there are potential roost trees, then trees that do not pose a risk to human life or property will be analyzed for signs of bats being present (emergence surveys) prior to removal according to USFWS NLEB summer survey protocols (US AEC, 2015b).

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6.8.3. Invasive Plants

Several noxious and invasive plants occur at DRFTA. These species, as well as suggested control activities, are listed in Table 6‐8 below (Fort Devens, 2018d).

Table 6‐8: Invasive Plants and Control Activities at DRFTA Species Control Activities Purple  Hand‐pull and cut small infestations Loosestrife  Herbicide treatment  Biocontrol (weevils) Spotted  Hand pull small infestations Knapweed  Herbicide application  Prescribed fire Autumn Olive  Cutting  Chemical control Phragmites  Cutting spp.  Chemical control  Cutting Buckthorn  Chemical control

Studies have been conducted on the effect of the invasive species spotted knapweed on the grasshopper sparrow at DRFTA noting that herbicide treatments and controlled burn were used historically for invasive species control (Lockwood et al, 2002, Lockwood 2009). Currently, DRFTA monitors the occurrence of invasive species through RTLA inspections. Lists of prohibited or recommended plant species have not been developed for nor identified on the installation. General recommendations have been made to plant native species, warm season grasses, and to control invasive species such as knapweed.

6.8.4. Urban Landscapes

The Main Cantonment and 3400 Areas of DRFTA are urbanized areas vegetated primarily with turf grasses and ornamental plantings. Grounds maintenance at DRFTA is integrated with the natural resource management program and will continue to work to improve habitat for pollinator species, remove invasive species historically planted as ornamentals such as autumn olive, and develop sustainable landscapes in response to climate change and other threats.

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

Vegetation Action Items:

 Collect baseline data to better understand existence of rare plants, core habitat areas, natural communities, and potential/preferred communities resulting from intended vegetation and wildland fire management.  Assess opportunities to improve grassland habitat quality in the Drop Zone. Remove trees and shrubs, particularly those associated with Ponakin Brook and other streams/wetlands that encroach into the Turner Drop Zone to improve habitat for state‐ listed grassland birds. Clear low‐lying vegetation to increase line of sight. Plant warm season grasses.  Use herbicide for initial warm season grassland restoration, coupled with use of prescribed fire for restoration and long‐term grassland maintenance.  Plant and preserve areas with milkweed and native nectar plants where appropriate to encourage pollinators such as butterflies and moths. Apply pesticides and fertilizers, and control pests only when needed. Consult with MassWildlife as needed.  Repair selected improved grounds and landscaped areas damaged by vehicles, people, weather, nature, or overgrowth. Remove encroaching vegetation and re‐seed/re‐ vegetate bare spots in training areas.  Expand the extent and quality of pitch‐pine‐scrub oak habitat to improve habitat for the rare bird, Eastern Whip‐poor‐will by: o Conducting an initial timber harvest to reset the community’s structure and species composition. o Following the timber harvest, maintain the community with regular disturbance via prescribed burns and mowing between burns.  Identify and map invasive and noxious plant species. Plan for removal and control. Update invasive species survey and management plan.

6.9. Integrated Pest Management

Invasive, non‐indigenous pests, diseases, and invasive species have competitive advantage due to the absence of predators, native disease resistance, and competitors that they evolved with in other, non‐native ecosystems or because of more efficient mechanisms of reproduction, dispersal, or use of resources. These non‐native pests and invasive plants threaten species diversity, composition, and structure of aquatic and terrestrial habitats. In accordance with DoDI 4150.07, Pest Management Program and AR 200‐1, DRFTA operates under an Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPMP) which is carried out by the designated Installation Pest Management Coordinator.

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area

6.9.1. Forest Pests

The following noxious forest insects occur or have the potential to occur on DRFTA:

 White Pine Weevil, Pissodes strobi: The White Pine Weevil has the greatest potential to cause economic damage. It kills terminal leaders of white pine and causes low quality, crooked, multi‐boled trees. As the insect prefers relatively pure stands of young white pine with little cover, its impact should be minimal.  Pales Weevil, Hylebius pales: The Pales Weevil feeds on tender branches and buds of white pine, red pine, and spruce. Loss of seedlings to this pest will likely result in little economic or ecological impact.  Pine Needle Scale, Phenalaspis pinifoliae: Pine Needle Scale attacks white pine, red pine, and spruce. It causes yellowing of needles on large trees and may kill seedlings. It is not considered a significant threat to forest resources.  Pine Bark Aphid, Pineus strobi: The Pine Bark Aphid, a sapsucking insect, attacks the bole of white pines and may weaken it. The insect is not considered a significant economic or ecological threat.  Elm Bark Beetle, Scolytus multistriatus: The Elm Bark Beetle feeds on the bark of elm trees and carries spores of Dutch elm disease. Many elm trees on DRFTA have been infected as a result of this insect. However; it is not a significant threat, and control is not planned.  Saw Fly, Neodiprion spp: The Saw Fly feeds on, and may damage, white and red pine. It is not considered a significant threat.  Gypsy Moth, Porthetria dispar: Gypsy Moths, when occurring in large numbers, have potential to destroy trees by enveloping and attacking green vegetation. Fluctuations in gypsy moth populations are cyclical. Potential effects on DRFTA are limited to the cantonment area and weaker forest stands on South Post. Central Massachusetts has experienced a severe outbreak in 2016 and 2017, which is expected to abate in 2018. General guidance recommends that heavily impacted stands should not be harvested for several years following a gypsy moth outbreak (Fort Devens 1968, 1983).  Hemlock Wooly Adelgids, Adelgids are an introduced pest which feeds on the base of hemlock needles and can kill affected hemlock. It is widely established in Massachusetts. At this time no practical control methods are available, although individual trees may be protected through application of systemic pesticides. Several potential biological control agents are being investigated.  Emerald Ash Borer, Emerald Ash Borer (ELB) is an invasive insect pest which has recently become established in MA and will likely decimate ash populations in the state. It is not currently known to occur at DRFTA. At this time no practical control methods are available, although individual trees may be protected through application of systemic pesticides. Several potential biological control agents are being investigated.  Asian Longhorned Beetle, Asian Longhorned Beetle is an invasive insect pest which has recently become established in Worchester, County MA. It has the potential to decimate New England maple populations and is the focus of an intensive USDA eradication program.

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Control measures focus on removal of host trees in the vicinity of known beetle colonies. It is not currently known to occur at DRFTA.

6.9.2. Forest Diseases

The following forest diseases occur or have the potential to occur on DRFTA:

 Ignarius heart rot, Fomes ignarius: Heart rot affects hardwoods, particularly red maple, and destroys trees by causing decomposition of heartwood. Infected trees will be targeted for timber stand improvement (TSI) as needed.  White pine blister rust, Cronartium ribicola: White pine blister rust affects white pine, but its occurrence on DRFTA is rare.  Nectria canker, Nectria galligena: Nectria canker attacks all hardwood species, causing cankers. Infected trees will be targeted for TSI as needed.  Strumella canker, Strumella coryneoidea: Strumella canker attacks red oak, causing cankers. Infected trees will be targeted for TSI as needed.  Dutch elm disease, Ceratocystis ulmi: Dutch elm disease targets elm trees and has greatest effects within floodplains It is endemic in MA and elms generally succumb to the disease prior to reaching 6” in diameter (Fort Devens 1968, 1983).  Beech Bark Disease, Beech bark disease (BBD) is caused by both a sap‐feeding scale insect and a fungus. American beech trees are first infested with beech scale. Scale feeding allows infection by the Neonectria fungus. The fungus kills the cambia, and the tree. The disease is a major killer of beech trees in the northeastern US.

6.9.3. Invasive Plant Species

Invasive plants species known to occur on DRFTA include common reed (Phragmites australis), purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellate), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and others as discussed in Section 6.8.3.

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Integrated Pest and Invasive Species Management Action Items:

 Ensure compliance with all environmental laws, regulations, and guidelines.  Implement DoD Technical Guide No. 37 Integrated Management of Stray Animals on Military Installations (DoD 2012).  Coordinate with local animal control offices to remove feral animals from the installation.  Implement pest management controls from the IPMP and other pest‐related guidance and plans.  Update the existing IPMP to ensure that the plan reflects changes in populations and current management issues.  Monitor for forest pests.  Identify areas where invasive species occur and develop specific management actions to target the populations of these species.  Use integrated pest management methods that include non‐chemical control to reduce the amount of herbicide applied on the installation in accordance with the DoD Pest Management Measures of Merit stipulated in DoDI 4150.07 (DoD 2008) and the Presidential Memorandum, Creating a Federal Strategy to Promote the Health of Honey Bees and Other Pollinators (June 2014).  Use native plants and plants that provide nectar for pollinator species for landscaping to the greatest extent possible per the Presidential Memorandum that directs DoD to use pollinator‐friendly native landscaping and minimize use of pesticides harmful to pollinators.  If necessary, coordinate with state and local regulators to obtain appropriate permits for nonnative and nuisance plant species eradication in wetland area.

6.10. Wildland Fire Management

Prescribed fire, combined with vegetation management, is as significant tool for enhancing, restoring, and maintaining a suite of listed species, from grassland birds and whip‐poor‐will to Lepidoptera and rare plants. In accordance with DoDI 4715.03 which states that “all DoD Components shall manage fuel loads, and provide adequate planning for wildland fire management,” and AR 200‐1 which states that “installations with unimproved grounds that present a wildfire hazard and/or installations that use prescribed burns as a land management tool will develop and implement an Integrated Wildland Fire Management Plan (IWFMP) that is compliant and integral with the INRMP.” The plan establishes roles and responsibilities, procedures, and requirements for planning and controlling wildland fires on DRFTA. It contains installation‐specific information on interagency cooperation, cultural resource considerations, the history of the installation’s wildland fires, and wildland firefighting equipment. The Department of the Army Wildland Fire Policy Guidance (US Army, 2002) requires that the IWFMP be reviewed annually and revised at least every five years.

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Wildland Fire Management Action Items:

 Prepare Wildland Fire Management Plan in compliance with the Army Wildland Fire Policy Guidance (US Army, 2002) prior to FY2021.  Coordinate Plan development with cooperating agencies, the MassDEP, local fire departments and emergency agencies.

7. Implementation

The legal authority for DoD conservation actions at DRFTA is provided under the provisions of the Sikes Act. The stated purpose of this act is to “promote effectual planning, development, maintenance and coordination of wildlife, fish, and game conservation and rehabilitation in military reservations.” All conservation actions and measures, projects, management practices, and tasks outlined in this INRMP are pursuant to this overarching requirement. Toward this end, this INRMP program ensures the implementation of year‐round, cost‐effective management activities and projects that meet the requirements.

The implementation of this INRMP will be supported by the DRFTA Command Group. The DRFTA DPW Natural Resource Specialist is responsible for implementing this INRMP. The Natural Resource Specialist will coordinate with all garrison directorates and departments to ensure that natural resource management is fully integrated into daily operations and long term planning efforts. The recommendations of this INRMP will be integrated with master planning at DRFTA, as well as the RCMP, the ITAM program and the LRAM.

All communication and sharing of data with stakeholders will be coordinated by Natural Resource Specialist and DPW Environmental Division staff.

As projects requiring NEPA review are planned and executed, this INRMP will be used as a guide to ensure proper and effective management of natural resources. As required by Sikes Act, this INRMP will be developed in cooperation with the USFWS and MassWildlife and in consideration of their conservation and natural resource management objectives.

In accordance with AR 200‐1 and DoDI 4715.03, this INRMP will be reviewed on an annual basis and revised as needed. This INRMP will take effect upon signature of the DRFTA Commander. It is anticipated that this INRMP will cover the period from FY 2020 through FY 2024. DRFTA will invite the USFWS and MassWildlife to participate in annual reviews to discuss action items and accomplishments. The results of the annual reviews will be incorporated into the INRMP as updates. A comprehensive review of this INRMP for operation and effect will be conducted every five years.

In addition to annual reviews, the Sikes Act requires each installation with significant natural resources to report annually on the status of its INRMP implementation. Natural Resources Conservation Metrics (NRCMs) are developed and used to assess the status of the

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area implementation of the conservation goals and objectives identified in the INRMP. These metrics evaluate the effectiveness of ecosystem‐based management while ensuring that there is no net loss of military training lands. These metrics also provide for an indication of the success of the installation’s partnerships with the USFWS, MassWildlife, and others. To address this requirement, DRFTA is in the process of developing a metric system that will provide a transparent evaluation of the effectiveness of DRFTA’s natural resource management in relation to the installation’s military mission.

7.1. Conservation Awareness

Conservation awareness is instrumental in creating the conditions needed to effectively manage natural resources. The objective of the conservation awareness program is to improve the general natural resources program knowledge of all persons associated with DRFTA, including tenants, stakeholder agencies (e.g., USFWS, MassWildlife), and the general public. Actions that will be taken to meet this objective include:

 Continue to use the garrison’s social medial pages, website, and special displays to share information with all persons associated with DRFTA on matters of importance to DRFTA’s natural resources program.  Participate in existing organized events such as Army Earth Day and evaluate opportunities to organize other special events for promoting DRFTA’s stewardship image and conservation commitment.  Continue to engage directly with stakeholders and provide education about DRFTA’s natural resources program.

7.2. Natural Resources Staffing

To successfully implement the INRMP, a combination of government staff, contract labor, and partners (including volunteers) will be required. Execution of DRFTA’s natural resources management program currently employs one full time Natural Resource Specialist to oversee the program. Other natural resource support is provided by qualified contractors as well as government agencies (e.g., USFWS and MassWildlife) and by partners and volunteers from the community.

7.3. Funding

This INRMP provides long‐term natural resources management direction in the form of recurring and non‐recurring projects and supporting actions that are incorporated into annual budget proposals. Funds are allocated annually based on budget proposals and congressional intent. Projects and supporting actions may occur on an annual basis or may occur at specific times. They may have short (five years or less) or long (up to 15 year) timeframes. To fully implement the goals, objectives, and strategies of the INRMP, annual budgets are programmed into the US Army’s Conservation Budgets and Conservation Program Objective Memorandum. US Army Headquarters policies and resources direct installation level conservation programming and

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL September 2019 Devens Reserve Forces Training Area budgeting. All requirements set forth in this INRMP requiring the expenditure of DRFTA funds are expressly subject to the availability of appropriations and the requirements of the Anti‐Deficiency Act (31 USC Section 1341). No obligation undertaken by DRFTA under the terms of this INRMP will require or be interpreted to require a commitment to expend funds not obligated for a particular purpose. DRFTA continues the management philosophy, as well as the program management goals and objectives from the previous INRMP (Fort Devens, 2010). As such, there has not been a major change to the installation’s natural resources management program between the 2010 INRMP and this INRMP.

INRMP Implementation Action Items

 Actively request and use funds for natural resources management projects, activities and other requirements in support of goals, and objectives identified in the INRMP.  Ensure that sufficient numbers of professionally trained natural resources management personnel are available to perform the tasks required by the INRMP.  Invite annual feedback from the appropriate USFWS and MassWildlife agency offices on the effectiveness of its INRMP.  Document specific INRMP action accomplishments undertaken each year.  Evaluate the effectiveness of past and current management activities and adapt those activities as needed to implement future actions.

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8. Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

6.1. Geographic Information System Development Develop, update, and maintain the GIS data layers need to support DRFTA’s natural X Use a structured, iterative process of adaptive resource program. ecosystem management to protect, conserve, and Regularly replace or upgrade GIS and imagery enhance native fauna and flora, sensitive species, hardware and software to maintain the X habitats, and wetlands on DRFTA. capability to use developing GIS technology. Use remote imagery for improved decision‐ X X making for natural resource management. Ensure continued coordination between the Ensure the coordination of DRFTA’s natural Natural Resource Specialist, Range Control, the resource management program with installation DPW and Environmental Division staff, and the X personnel, soldiers and all other visitors. ITAM Coordinator for successful use of GIS data in planning and decision‐making. Create effective partnerships with private, local, Continue to share GIS data with local, state and State, and Federal entities for the conservation of federal agencies as appropriate for the X natural resources and the sustainment of the management of natural resources. military mission. 6.2. Climate Change Management Manage natural resources in a manner  Implement this INRMP within the framework of consistent with best available science to X US Army policies and regulations. provide resilience to climate change. 55

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL Devens Reserve Forces Training Area September 2019

Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Perform Phase I: Climate Awareness Module  Implement natural resource management and Phase II: Vulnerability Assessment Module X programs that are on a scale compatible with using the Army Climate Assessment Tool natural processes, are cognizant of nature’s Website to use as a planning framework. timeframes, recognize social and economic constraints, and are adaptable to complex and Perform Phase III: Follow‐on Actions using the X changing requirements. Army Climate Assessment Tool Website.

6.3. Soil Conservation and Erosion and Sedimentation Control Repair damaged soils and manage military activities, protect soil stability, preserve X Use range monitoring, damage minimization, training lands, and conserve wildlife habitat. mitigation, and rehabilitation to maintain and Use GIS soils data to make decisions regarding enhance the training value of DRFTA lands in land use, rehabilitation options, and habitat X support of current and future military training and management options. operations. Stabilize roads, maneuver trails and training areas using native grasses, gravel, and X woodchips, and by filling and grading ruts. Employ the procedures of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to make informed Minimize new construction in previously decisions on all proposed Army actions in a manner undisturbed areas and, when necessary, obtain X that includes consideration of natural resource required permits for land disturbing activities. management goals.

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Manage soils to preclude or reduce the X establishment of invasive plant species. Maintain grasslands through regular mowing, Monitor and manage soils, water, vegetation, and prescribed burning and removal of underbrush X wildlife on DRFTA with consideration for the value edges and maintenance of ground cover. of all natural communities and for the human Identify and control vegetation to prevent wind values associated with those resources. and maneuver erosion, prevent growth of invasive species, prevent successional growth, X and prevent tick habitats through planting native species and grass cutting. 6.4. Water Resource Management Use range monitoring, damage minimization, mitigation, and rehabilitation to maintain and Prevent and minimize erosion and sediment enhance the training value of DRFTA lands in X entering surface water bodies. support of current and future military training and operations. Continue to update wetland data layers in GIS X X as wetlands are surveyed. Use a structured, iterative process of adaptive Perform wetlands delineations for proposed ecosystem management to protect, conserve, and projects near streams and wetlands. Consult X X enhance native fauna and flora, sensitive species, with agencies and adhere to applicable habitats, and wetlands on DRFTA. wetland regulations. Manage wetlands to ensure no net loss (EO X 11990).

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Inventory and certify vernal pools and avoid and minimize impacts to these areas. Perform egg mass surveys at vernal pools to improve X efficiency of baseline data for sensitive species including Blue Spotted Salamanders. Inventory culverts and assess culvert impacts on the connectivity of aquatic habitat. Upgrade X deficient culverts. Inventory dams and evaluate opportunities for X habitat restoration by dam removal. Develop and implement a Phragmites management plan that includes an inventory of Monitor and manage soils, water, vegetation, and Phragmites stands, control plans for stands wildlife on DRFTA with consideration for the value posing a risk to nearby sensitive communities X of all natural communities and for the human or rare species habitat through containment or values associated with those resources. herbicide use, and prevention of impacts to native Phragmites (Phragmites australis americanus) which may occur. 6.5. Sensitive Species Management Consult with the USFWS and MassWildlife on Create effective partnerships with private, local, all proposed projects that may impact sensitive State, and Federal entities for the conservation of species and/or their habitats in compliance X natural resources and the sustainment of the with ESA, Section 7, and MESA laws and military mission. requirements.

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Map natural communities and collect baseline data as well as potential/preferred communities resulting from intended vegetation and wildland fire management to X improve knowledge of potential habitats for federally and state‐listed species on DRFTA. Coordinate mapping efforts with the USFWS and MassWildlife. Protect and manage threatened and endangered Perform acoustic bat surveys to collect baseline species and critical habitat in accordance with the data to confirm the presence or absence of Endangered Species Act (ESA), the Massachusetts northern long‐eared bats. Survey for X Endangered Species Act (MESA), NEPA, AR 200‐3, underground structures that may be used as DoDI 4715.3, USFWS regulations and agreements, hibernacula. and all other applicable laws or guidance from Continue to survey and monitor Grasshopper headquarters. Sparrow populations. Use prescribed burning X X X X X to improve the habitat in the Turner Drop Zone. Resume survey and monitoring efforts for the X X X Blanding’s Turtle. Survey the Wood Turtle and Spotted Turtle populations, evaluate vitality, and assess X condition of habitat critical for reproduction, nesting, and maintenance.

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Coordinate with MassWildlife to find opportunities to identify ways to reduce nest predation and prevent road mortality of the Blanding’s Turtle by studying nesting patterns, protecting nesting sites and providing nesting habitat in areas where road crossing is not X required. Install fencing and culverts in accordance with the best management practices described in MassDOT’s Linking Landscape program.

Continue to provide education and awareness training for protection of Blanding’s Turtles, Ensure the coordination of DRFTA’s natural especially along roads. Work with the Oxbow resource management program with installation X X NWR to maintain and improve Blanding’s personnel, soldiers and all other visitors. Turtle habitat along the Nashua River floodplain. Develop a plan to restore woodland Barrens Protect and manage threatened and endangered communities that includes the results of species and critical habitat in accordance with the natural community mapping, identifying Endangered Species Act (ESA), the Massachusetts habitat opportunities for Barrens species such Endangered Species Act (MESA), NEPA, AR 200‐3, X as the Eastern Whip‐poor‐will and lepidoptera, DoDI 4715.3, USFWS regulations and agreements, and designing a restoration and management and all other applicable laws or guidance from plan sequencing timber harvesting, prescribed headquarters. fire, and mowing.

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Actively manage habitats for Monarch Butterflies by planting native varieties of X milkweed and pollinator flowers in appropriate areas with consultation from MassWildlife. Assess opportunities to expand rare plant X habitats. Manage natural resources within the spirit and letter of State and Federal environmental laws, Annually review and update sensitive species X particularly the Sikes Act upon which this INRMP is management strategies. predicated. 6.6. Migratory Bird Management Protect and manage threatened and endangered Consult with USFWS and MassWildlife on all species and critical habitat in accordance with the proposed projects that may impact migratory X Endangered Species Act (ESA), the Massachusetts bird species and/or their habitats and comply Endangered Species Act (MESA), NEPA, AR 200‐3, with ESA and MESA laws and requirements. DoDI 4715.3, USFWS regulations and agreements, Continue to survey and monitor Grasshopper and all other applicable laws or guidance from X X X X X Sparrow populations. headquarters. Create effective partnerships with private, local, Continue to work with MassWildlife and other State, and Federal entities for the conservation of public and private entities on Eastern Whip‐ X X natural resources and the sustainment of the poor‐will surveys, waterfowl surveys, hawk military mission. banding, and other migratory bird studies. 6.7. Fish and Wildlife Management

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Conduct flora and fauna surveys at established Use a structured, iterative process of adaptive intervals (every 5 years) to evaluate if any ecosystem management to protect, conserve, and changes are occurring to state of federally X enhance native fauna and flora, sensitive species, listed plants/animals known to occur on the habitats, and wetlands on DRFTA. installation. Develop and incorporate management actions Manage natural resources within the spirit and into this INRMP during annual reviews if any letter of State and Federal environmental laws, new candidate, threatened, or endangered X particularly the Sikes Act upon which this INRMP is species are discovered on DRFTA, or if species predicated. already known on the installation become listed. Document all nongame species incidentally X observed during species of concern surveys. Maintain an updated inventory of plants and Implement this INRMP within the framework of US animals present on DRFTA. Coordinate with Army policies and regulations. Defense Partners in Amphibian and Reptile X Conservation to obtain data collected regarding herpetofauna species at DRFTA. Ensure access to focused training for natural Ensure the coordination of DRFTA’s natural resource management staff regarding resource management program with installation X management of fish and wildlife resources on personnel, soldiers and all other visitors. military installations. Develop a CLEP as required by DoDI 5525.17 Implement this INRMP within the framework of US and incorporate into this INRMP upon X X Army policies and regulations. completion.

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Cooperate with state and federal agencies on X issues of wildlife management.

Create effective partnerships with private, local, Explore collaborative opportunities with local State, and Federal entities for the conservation of organizations such as the Massachusetts natural resources and the sustainment of the Audubon Society, Boy Scout troops, Girl Scout X military mission. troops, and other community organizations to complete specific tasks both on and off DRFTA for the benefit of fish and wildlife.

6.8. Vegetation Management Collect baseline data to better understand existence of rare plants, core habitat areas, natural communities, and potential/preferred X communities resulting from intended vegetation and wildland fire management. Monitor and manage soils, water, vegetation, and Assess opportunities to improve grassland wildlife on DRFTA with consideration for the value habitat quality in the Drop Zone. Remove trees of all natural communities and for the human and shrubs, particularly those associated with values associated with those resources. Ponakin Brook and other streams/wetlands X X that encroach into the Turner Drop Zone to improve habitat for state‐listed grassland birds. Clear low‐lying vegetation to increase line of sight. Plant warm season grasses.

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Use herbicide for initial warm season grassland restoration, coupled with use of prescribed fire X Implement natural resource management for restoration and long‐term grassland programs that are on a scale compatible with maintenance. natural processes, are cognizant of nature’s Plant and preserve areas with milkweed and timeframes, recognize social and economic native nectar plants where appropriate to constraints, and are adaptable to complex and encourage pollinators such as butterflies and X changing requirements. moths. Apply pesticides and fertilizers, and control pests only when needed. Consult with MassWildlife as needed. Use range monitoring, damage minimization, Repair selected improved grounds and mitigation, and rehabilitation to maintain and landscaped areas damaged by vehicles, people, enhance the training value of DRFTA lands in weather, nature, or overgrowth. Remove X support of current and future military training and encroaching vegetation and re‐seed/re‐ operations. vegetate bare spots in training areas.

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Expand the extent and quality of pitch‐pine‐ scrub oak habitat to improve habitat for the rare bird, Eastern Whip‐poor‐will by: ‐ Using community mapping to guide decision‐ Provide for human use of products generated from making process with planning assistance from renewable natural resources when those products MassWildlife. can be produced in a sustainable manner without X ‐Conducting an initial timber harvest to reset significant negative impacts on the military mission the community’s structure and species or other natural resources. composition. ‐Following the timber harvest, maintain the community with regular disturbance via prescribed burns and mowing between burns. Monitor and manage soils, water, vegetation, and Identify and map invasive and noxious plant wildlife on DRFTA with consideration for the value species. Plan for removal and control. Update X X of all natural communities and for the human invasive species survey and management plan. values associated with those resources. 6.9. Integrated Pest Management Ensure compliance with all environmental laws, X Coordinate the enforcement of natural resources‐ regulations, and guidelines. related laws on DRFTA, including Massachusetts Implement DoD Technical Guide No. 37 General Law (MGL) Chapter 131§ 80A. Integrated Management of Stray Animals on X Military Installations (DoD 2012).

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Create effective partnerships with private, local, State, and Federal entities for the conservation of Coordinate with local animal control offices to X natural resources and the sustainment of the remove feral animals from the installation. military mission. Ensure the coordination of DRFTA’s natural Implement pest management controls from resource management program with installation the IPMP and other pest‐related guidance and X personnel, soldiers and all other visitors. plans. Update the existing IPMP to ensure that the plan reflects changes in populations and X Use a structured, iterative process of adaptive current management issues. ecosystem management to protect, conserve, and Monitor for forest pests X enhance native fauna and flora, sensitive species, Identify areas where invasive species occur and habitats, and wetlands on DRFTA. develop specific management actions to target X the populations of these species. Use integrated pest management methods that include non‐chemical control to reduce the amount of herbicide applied on the installation in accordance with the DoD Pest Management Implement this INRMP within the framework of US Measures of Merit stipulated in DoDI 4150.07 X Army policies and regulations. (DoD 2008) and the Presidential Memorandum, Creating a Federal Strategy to Promote the Health of Honey Bees and Other Pollinators (June 2014).

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Use native plants and plants that provide nectar for pollinator species for landscaping to the greatest extent possible per the Presidential Memorandum that directs DoD to X use pollinator‐friendly native landscaping and minimize use of pesticides harmful to pollinators.

If necessary, coordinate with state and local Coordinate the enforcement of natural resources‐ regulators to obtain appropriate permits for related laws on DRFTA, including Massachusetts X nonnative and nuisance plant species General Law (MGL) Chapter 131§ 80A. eradication in wetland area.

6.10. Wildland Fire Management Prepare Wildland Fire Management Plan in Implement this INRMP within the framework of US compliance with the Army Wildland Fire Policy X X Army policies and regulations. Guidance (US Army, 2002) prior to FY2021.

Create effective partnerships with private, local, State, and Federal entities for the conservation of Coordinate Plan development with cooperating natural resources and the sustainment of the agencies, the MassDEP, local fire departments X military mission. and emergency agencies.

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Table 8‐1: DRFTA INRMP Five‐Year Implementation Plan

Execution Timeframe INRMP Program Element/Section and Proposed Action Item Project(s) Objective/Driver from Table 2‐1 On‐ FY FY FY FY FY Going 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

7. Implementation Manage natural resources within the spirit and Actively request and use funds for natural letter of State and Federal environmental laws, resources management projects, activities and X particularly the Sikes Act upon which this INRMP is other requirements in support of goals, and predicated. objectives identified in the INRMP. Ensure that sufficient numbers of Ensure the coordination of DRFTA’s natural professionally trained natural resources resource management program with installation X X X X X management personnel are available to personnel, soldiers and all other visitors. perform the tasks required by the INRMP. Create effective partnerships with private, local, Invite annual feedback from the appropriate State, and Federal entities for the conservation of USFWS and MassWildlife agency offices on the X X X X X natural resources and the sustainment of the effectiveness of its INRMP. military mission. Document specific INRMP action X X X X X Manage natural resources within the spirit and accomplishments undertaken each year. letter of State and Federal environmental laws, Evaluate the effectiveness of past and current particularly the Sikes Act upon which this INRMP is management activities and adapt those X X X X X predicated. activities as needed to implement future actions.

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9. Integrated Training Area Management Role and Responsibilities

The ITAM program is responsible for maintaining training land on DRFTA to ensure that lands meet the Army’s training requirements. The ITAM program manager Headquarters Department of the Army (HQDA), Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS) G3/7 Training Simulations Division serves as the team lead for programmatic support. ITAM provides Army range officers with the capabilities to manage and maintain training lands and support mission readiness and the METL (Mission Essential Task List). ITAM integrates the mission requirements, with environmental requirements and environmental management practices and establishes the policies and procedures to achieve optimum, sustainable use of training and testing lands by implementing a uniform land management program.

The Sustainable Range Program (SRP) is the Army’s overall approach to the design, construction, management, operation & usage, maintenance and long‐term sustainment of ranges and training maneuver lands. The SRP is defined by its two core components. The range program includes range modernization, range development and range operations; and the ITAM Program provides maneuver land capability support and a decision support capability based on the integration of training requirements, land conditions, maneuver ranges and land management requirements to support mission readiness.

The SRP planning process integrates mission support, environmental stewardship and economic feasibility and defines procedures for determining range projects and training land requirements to support live‐fire and maneuver training. The planning process occurs annually. The ITAM program sustains the Army’s training land capability by repairing maneuver damage, reconfiguring land to enable new maneuver training capabilities to meet the Commanders’ intents, and creating and maintaining a resilient and adaptive training land base to keep pace with the Army’s modernization efforts.

The Army Training Land Strategy (ATLS) provides the vision and guidance at Fort Devens for the management of ranges and training lands that support the Warfighter. This strategy combines current training land management practices with those needed to support the vision of future Army training. The ATLS supports the Army Training Strategy by providing the infrastructure capability required to support live training for the Warfighter.

Live training remains the cornerstone of Army doctrine. To ensure that units can continue to train at Fort Devens as they will fight; training must reflect the operational warfighting environment. To meet new requirements Fort Devens has established best management practices for range operations which optimize available resources for range and training land priorities with the goal of maximizing the capability, availability and accessibility of ranges and training land.

 Capability is the configuration and characteristics of ranges and training lands as a platform necessary to support live training requirements;  Availability is the necessary infrastructure to support range and training land capabilities within the boundaries of scheduling and training time requirements; and

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 Accessibility is the conditions required to conduct live training for Soldiers and units when and where required on ranges and training land.

9.1. Training Land Sustainability and Realism

Training land sustainability and realism are where available land assets meet the training requirement. Training land management is the practice of balancing the need for realistic training conditions at Fort Devens with the ability to sustain training units through time on a fixed land base. Sustainable and realistic training conditions are those that support the required training tasks over a period of time to allow movement of personnel, equipment and use of Training Aids, Devices, Simulators and Simulations (TADSS) in a manner that does not produce unacceptable and unmanageable Warfighter safety or environmental compliance issues. The environmental compliance management is the responsibility of the Fort Devens DPW/Environmental Branch. The management of lands to ensure usability for the required training tasks in a safe and sustainable manner is the responsibility of training land management. There is coordinated cooperation between these offices.

9.2. Sustainable Training Lands

Sustainable training lands are capable of supporting multiple iterations of doctrine‐driven training throughput. Sustainable training lands at Fort Devens are managed to provide the needed carrying capacities associated with the various training types conducted, including free maneuver, fixed maneuver, live‐fire maneuver, movement, airborne operations, mortar firing training, unit METL, warrior tasks and battle drills, signal training, bivouacking, patrolling exercises and land navigation. Sustainability means available lands may need to support both fixed and free maneuver. Fixed maneuver training utilizes constructed hardened trails or features such as low water crossing. Free maneuver at Fort Devens utilizes the entire traversable landscape (both heavy and light) to conduct required training tasks and tactics.

9.3. Realistic Training Conditions

Realistic training conditions at Fort Devens are those that can support doctrinal training fundamentals. Realistic training conditions are natural, safe and sustainable. Training realism does not mean the replication of in‐theater conditions. It is not possible to determine all theater conditions or replicate those here at Fort Devens, nor is it necessary or desirable to do so. Rather, “realistic” means the ability to support the required training tasks to standard. Realistic environments at Fort Devens entail maintaining natural, safe and sustainable conditions, and may require some level of engineering (e.g., low water crossings) to ensure sustainability.

9.4. Accessible Training Land

Training land requirements and capacities are determined by training type and the kinds of land the training requires. For purposes of training land inventories supporting training tasks, accessible training land is the total Fort Devens available land area that is not restricted by environmental laws

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan‐FINAL Devens Reserve Forces Training Area September 2019 and regulations and other related laws and regulations. Although not captured or used for inventory purposes, training land must be suitable to support the specified training tasks (it has the desired land conditions and does not have the undesired conditions).

9.5. Defining Desired and Non‐Desired Land Conditions

Training proponents define the land characteristics that determine suitability for safe and realistic training. Training proponents consider the movement of personnel, use of vehicles, equipment and training aids to define what conditions are needed and those that will inhibit or prevent the safe execution of the warfighting training task. For each training type, the land variables evaluated are:

 Slope: Terrain conditions in terms of predominant slope steepness, hills, mountains, etc.  Vegetation: Ground cover/grasses (height and/or percent cover), understory (shrubs vines/thorns/thickets) thickness, and tree spacing  Surface Water: Open lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams; including dimensions where they promote/inhibit training task.  Wetlands: Swamps/marshlands including dimensions that promote/inhibit training  Surface: Land surface conditions including surface roughness, ruts, gullies, ravines, etc; also include (as applicable) need for trails/routes, widths, and surface hardening  Dust: Dust conditions that promote/inhibit the training task

TC 25‐1 details acceptable landscape conditions for dismounted, wheeled, tracked and aviation training on maneuver areas and associated maneuver area training features.

9.6. ITAM Work Plan

The annual ITAM work plan describes multiyear ITAM programs and resource requirements for installations and supporting agencies. The resource requirements are based on a set of standard work categories. The Fort Devens ITAM Program Manager will identify and prioritize project and funding requirements that will form the basis for ITAM project requirements in the Fort Devens RCMP. Development and submission of the installation annual ITAM work plan are joint responsibilities of the range organization, training and environmental staffs. The purpose of the Fort Devens annual ITAM work plan is to:

 Define and prioritize individual projects that support Fort Devens training mission and ITAM objectives and that fall within the scope of ITAM core capabilities;  Identify ITAM resource requirements, based on the standard work categories;  Identify costs to execute the projects; and  Capture program execution and adjustments over the course of a fiscal year.

The Fort Devens ITAM Program Manager has identified 9 Annual Core Requirements that needed to sustain training area readiness. These requirements are the backbone of the Fort Devens ITAM Work

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Plan and insure that Fort Devens maneuver lands are always “Warfighter Ready” to support any training mission. These Annual Core Requirements are as follows:

 DRFTA 1: Maintain Line of Sight on DRFTA Impact Area;  DRFTA 2: Maintain Heavy and Light Maneuver Lands to TC 25‐1 Standards;  DRFTA 3: Maintain 4 Mortar Firing Points;  DRFTA 4: Maintain 7 Landing Zones;  DRFTA 5: Maintain 2 Land Navigation Sites;  DRFTA 6: Maintain 66.4 kilometers of Maneuver Trails;  DRFTA 7: Maintain 328.2 acres of Maneuver Trail Shoulders;  DRFTA 8: Erosion Control Maneuver Damage Mitigation; and  DRFTA 9: Evasive Species Eradication.

All ITAM projects are reviewed annually by the Natural Resource Specialist for NEPA compliance and coordination with this INRMP.

Appendix A. Maps and References

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Appendix A1. Figures

This Page Intentionally Left Blank Figure 1: DRFTA Installation Map ± Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan US Army Garrison Devens Reserve Forces Training Area 0 0.25 0.5 Devens, Massacusetts - September 2019 Miles Airfield

Legend Turner Drop Zone Maneuver Training Area DRFTA Boundary

Sources: 1. DRFTA data provided by DRFTA DPW in April 2019. 2. Esri World Imagery and World Transportation

Main Cantonment 3400 Area

Post Cemetery

South Post

Turner Drop Zone Shirley Road Figure 2A: Military Constraints - South Post

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Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan US Army Garrison Devens Reserve Forces Training Area Devens, Massacusetts - September 2019 Hospital Road Carroll Street Grant Road Shaker Road 3400 Area et re St Main n 10th Mountain Division Road ow ± st MacArthur Avenue Cantonment en ue 0 450 900 1,800 Q Feet Jackson Road

Lovell Street Liberty Street Lexington Street Legend Gorgas Street ad o d R a Area of Contamination (AOC) op Feinberg Street o Lo R Lafayette Street d DRFTA Boundary Quebec Street n o Givry Street P s DRFTA Roads n i b (MassGIS) b Major Roads o Hoff Street R S a r a to g a S

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i M

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Sources: 1. DRFTA data provided by DRFTA DPW in April 2019 unless otherwise noted in legend or described below. 2. MassDOT roads downloaded from MassGIS in April 2019. 0 200 400 800 2 3. Esri World Imagery Feet )" Figure 3A: Environmental Constraints - South Post

Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan US Army Garrison Devens Reserve Forces Training Area Devens, Massacusetts - September 2019

N � A §\��tC?JJ,� a 1,000 2,000 4,000 Feet

Legend Hydrology ◊ Certified Vernal Pool (MassG/5, 2018) Vernal Pool - meets Mass Wildlife ◊ {Oxbow Associates, 2019) Vernal Pool Certification criteria ◊ Potential Vernal Pool (Normandeau Associates, 2018) ◊ Potential Vernal Pool (MassG/5, 2018) Delineated Wetland Boundary (Normandeau Associates, 2018) Freshwater Forested/Shrub (USFWS, 2018) □ Wetlands CTI Freshwater Emergent Wetlands (USFWS, 2018) --rv-- Streams and Rivers Waterbodies 100-year Floodplain -Dam Stormwater ■ Stormwater Discharge Recreation m Hunting Area Protected and Recreational Open Space (MassGISJ MA Dept. of ,.------:-i� Bolton Flats Wildlife Management Area Fish & Game D Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge Federal Other Features D DRFTA Boundary DRFTA Roads Major Roads (MassGIS)

Sources: 1. Data provided by ORFTA OPW in April 2019 unless otherwise noted in legend or described below. 2. Potential Vernal Pool and Delineated Wetland Boundaries from July 2018 Jurisdictional Wetlands and Waters Report, South Post Hotel Range Reconfiguration by Normandeau Associates, July 2018, via DRFTA DPW. 3. The recently certified vernal pool north of Hotel Range was certified by Oxbow Associates as described in the May 2019 Vernal Pool Evaluation for Devens RFTA Hotel Range Reconfiguration report. 4. NWI wetlands downloaded from USFWS in April 2019, clipped ta DRFTA. 5. Open Space, MassDOT roads, and Certified and Potential Vernal Pools data downloaded from MassGIS in April 2019. 6. Esri World Imagery

M I D D L E S E X Figure 4: DRFTA Regional Overview ± Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan US Army Garrison Devens Reserve Forces Training Area 0 0.75 1.5 Devens, Massacusetts - September 2019 Miles

Legend ASHBY DRFTA Boundary Rivers and Streams (MassGIS) !

! ! ! Devens Boundary Lakes and Ponds (MassGIS) PEPPERELL TOWNSEND DUNSTABLE Towns (MassGIS) NRCS HUC 8 Basins (MassGIS) County Boundary (MassGIS) State Boundary (MassGIS)

Sources: 1. DRFTA Boundary provided by DRFTA DPW in April 2019. 2. Devens Boundary approximated using data provided by DRFTA DPW, April 2019, and from "Devens/Surrounding Town Former Boundaries" prepared by the Devens Enterprise Commission, Nov. 2013. 3. USGS Hydrography, NRCS HUC 8 Basins, and administrative boundaries downloaded from Mass GIS in April 2019. 4. Esri World Street Map

GROTON

FITCHBURG

LUNENBURG

! !

! Airfield ! SHIRLEY !

! ! AYER

! !

! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

! !

! ! ! !

! !

! 3400 Area ! !

DEVENS ! ! !

! !

! Main! !

! LITTLETON

! Cantonment ! M I D D L E S E X !

W O R C E S T E R !

! Post Cemetery !

LEOMINSTER ! !

! !

HARVARD

South Post

BOXBOROUGH

LANCASTER

ACTON

STERLING

BOLTON STOW

CLINTON

BERLIN HUDSON WEST BOYLSTON BOYLSTON

MARLBOROUGH Figure 5: DRFTA Soils ± Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan US Army Garrison Devens Reserve Forces Training Area 0 0.25 0.5 Devens, Massacusetts - September 2019 Miles Airfield

Legend DRFTA Boundary Pootatuck fine sandy loam Soil Map Unit Name Quonset loamy sand Agawam fine sandy loam Raynham silt loam Amostown and Belgrade soils Ridgebury fine sandy loam Canton fine sandy loam Saco silt loam Carver loamy coarse sand Scarboro mucky fine sandy loam Chatfield-Hollis-Rock outcrop complex Sudbury fine sandy loam Deerfield loamy fine sand Swansea muck Freetown muck Udorthents, sandy Hadley very fine sandy loam Udorthents, smoothed Hinckley loamy sand Udorthents-Urban land complex Hinesburg loamy sand Walpole sandy loam Limerick silt loam Water Merrimac fine loamy sand Whitman loam Merrimac-Urban land complex Windsor loamy sand Ninigret fine sandy loam Winooski very fine sandy loam Paxon fine sandy loam Woodbridge fine sandy loam Pits, gravel Sources: 1. DRFTA data provided by DRFTA DPW in April 2019. 2. Soils for SSAs MA017 (9/7/18) and MA613 (9/11/18) were downloaded from NRCS Web Soil Survey on 20 May 2019. 3. Esri World Transportation and Basemap. Main Cantonment 3400 Area

Post Cemetery

South Post Figure 6: DRFTA Vegetation ± Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan US Army Garrison Devens Reserve Forces Training Area 0 0.25 0.5 Devens, Massacusetts - September 2019 Miles Airfield

Legend Vegetation Classification DRFTA Boundary Herbaceuous Emergent Herbaceuous Wetlands Shrub/Scrub Deciduous Forest Evergreen Forest Mixed Forest Woody Wetlands Turner Drop Zone Grassland Sources: 1. DRFTA data provided by DRFTA DPW in April 2019. Other (unvegetated, urban, etc.) 2. Turner Drop Zone Grassland was absent from Vegetation Classification. Extent is approximate. 3. Esri World Transportation and Basemap.

Main Cantonment 3400 Area

Post Cemetery

South Post Figure 7: NHESP Priority & Estimated Habitats ± Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan US Army Garrison Devens Reserve Forces Training Area 0 0.25 0.5 Devens, Massacusetts - September 2019 Miles Airfield

Legend NHESP Priority Habitats of Rare Species (MassGIS) NHESP Estimated Habitats of Rare Wildlife (MassGIS) DRFTA Boundary

Sources: 1. DRFTA data provided by DRFTA DPW in April 2019. 2. NHESP layers downloaded from MassGIS in April 2019. 3. Esri World Transportation and Basemap.

Main Cantonment 3400 Area

Post Cemetery

South Post Figure 1: BioMap2 Habitat ± Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan US Army Garrison Devens Reserve Forces Training Area 0 0.25 0.5 Devens, Massacusetts - September 2019 Miles Airfield

Legend DRFTA Boundary NHESP/TNC BioMap2 Core Habitat Priority Natural Communities Species of Conservation Concern Critical Natural Landscape

Sources: 1. Devens data provided by DRFTA DPW in April 2019. 2. BioMap2 (2010) layers downloaded from MassGIS in April 2019. 3. Esri World Transportation.

Main Cantonment 3400 Area

Post Cemetery

South Post

Alluvial red maple swamp Kettlehole level bog

Pitch pine - scrub oak community

Appendix A2. List of Acronyms

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Acronym List

AOC Area of Contamination AR US Army Regulation BBD Beech Bark Disease BRAC Base Realignment and Closure BMP Best Management Practice CAA Clean Air Act CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 CGP Construction General Permit CLEP Conservation Law Enforcement Plan CWA Clean Water Act DoD Department of Defense DoDI Department of Defense Instruction DoDD Department of Defense Directive DPW Directorate of Public Works DRFTA Devens Reserve Forces Training Area Eagle Act Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act ELB Emerald Ash Borer EO Executive Order EPA US Environmental Protection Agency ESA Endangered Species Act ESRI Environmental Systems Research Institute GIS Geographical Information System IGI&S Installation Geospatial Information and Services IMCOM Installation Management Command INRMP Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan IPaC Information for Planning and Consultation IPMP Integrated Pest Management Plan ITAM Integrated Training Area Management Program IWFMP Integrated Wildland Fire Management Plan LCC Local Conservation Commissions LOI Letter of Instruction LRAM Land Rehabilitation and Maintenance LTM Long Term Monitoring LTMMP Long Term Monitoring and Maintenance Plan MassDEP Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection MassWildlife Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act MESA Massachusetts Endangered Species Act MGL Massachusetts General Law

A2-1

Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan-FINAL Devens Reserve Forces Training Area September 2019 Appendix A2 Revision 0

Acronym List

MS4 Municipal separate storm sewer system MSL Mean sea level NAAQS National Air Quality Standards NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NHESP Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program NLEB Northern long-eared bats NOI Notice of Intent NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NRCM Natural Resources Conservation Metric NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service NWI National Wetlands Inventory NWR National Wildlife Refuge PARC Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation RCMP Range Complex Master Plan RDX Cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine REC Record of Environmental Decision ROD Record of Decision RTLA Range and Training Lands Assessment RTLP Range and Training Land Program SCS Soil Conservation Service SDSFIE Spatial Data Standards for Facilities, Infrastructure, and Environment SPIA South Post Impact Area SRP Sustainable Range Program SWAP State Wildlife Action Plan SWPPP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan TA Training Area TNC Transient non-community TSI Timber Stand Improvement US United States USACE US Army Corps of Engineers US AEC US Army Environmental Command USC United States Code USFWS US Fish and Wildlife Service USGS US Geological Survey WOTUS Waters of the United States

A2-2

Appendix A3. Literature Cited

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Literature Cited

ABB Environmental Services, Inc. (ABB). 1993. Biological and Endangered Species Baseline Study, Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Wakefield, Massachusetts. Department of Defense (DoD). 2016. Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience. Directive 4715.21, January 14, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics. Washington, DC. DAMO-TRS 2019. Memorandum: Integrated Training Area Management (ITAM) Roles and Responsibilities for INRMP Development. June 3, 2019. DoD Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC). 2019. Guidance for Updating and Enhancing Amphibian and Reptile Sections of Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans. Fort Devens. 1949. Land Management Plan for Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Revised in December 1958 and April 1971. Fort Devens. 1954. Fish and Wildlife Management Plan for Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Later Incorporated into the Natural Resources Management Plan (circa 1983). Fort Devens. 1968. Woodland Management Plan for Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Revised 1970, 1971, 1978, 1980, and 1983. Fort Devens. 1981. Natural Resources Conservation Report, 1979-1981, Fort Devens, Massachusetts. The Secretary of Defense Conservation Award Entry for 1981 submitted by Thomas M. Poole, Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Fort Devens. 1983. Fort Devens Natural Resources Management Plan. Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Fort Devens. 2005. Final Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan, Revised for 2005– 2009. Prepared by Gene Stout and Associates. Fort Devens USAG, Massachusetts. Fort Devens. 2010. Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP), Draft, Revised for 2010–2015. Prepared by Gene Stout and Associates. Fort Devens USAG, Massachusetts. Fort Devens. 2016a. Devens Reserve Forces Training Area, Range Control Management Plan (RCMP). Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Fort Devens. 2016c. Performance Work Statement (PWS) for Grounds Maintenance Services, Fort Devens. November 7. Fort Devens. 2016b. Memorandum of Instruction (MOI) for the 2016-2017 Hunting Seasons for Fort Devens and Tenant Units. Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Fort Devens. 2017a. Sustainable Range Program (SRP) Integrated Training Area Management (ITAM). Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Fort Devens. 2017b. Fort Devens Regulation 350-3, Training, Sustainable Range Program (SRP). April 3, 2017. Fort Devens, Massachusetts. A3-1 Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan-FINAL Devens Reserve Forces Training Area September 2019 Appendix A3 Revision 0

Literature Cited

Fort Devens. 2017c. Devens Reserve Forces Training Area, Range and Training Land Assessment (RTLA). Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Fort Devens. 2019a. Northeastern State Waterfowl Breeding Population Survey, Data Sheet, dated April 22, 2019. Fort Devens. 2019b. Letter of Instruction (LOI) for the 2019 Spring Hunting Season. April 2. Fort Devens, Massachusetts. Fort Devens. 2019c. Fort Devens ITAM Project List for Past and Current Fiscal Years, FY2013 – FY2020. Devens Reserve Forces Training Area (DRFTA) Directorate of Public Works (DPW). Received April 2019. DRFTA GIS personal geodatabase (GIS data file). Fort Devens Museum website. 2019. History. Accessed from http://fortdevensmuseum.org/history/ Griffith, G.E., Omernik, J.M., Bryce, S.A., Royte, J., Hoar, W.D., Homer, J.W., Keirstead, D., Metzler, K.J., and Hellyer, G., 2009, Ecoregions of New England: Reston, Virginia, U.S. Geological Survey (map scale 1:1,325,000). Accessed from http://ecologicalregions.info/data/ma/new_eng_front.pdf Koman Government Solutions, LLC (KGS). 2017. Final - Base-Wide Preliminary Assessment for Evaluation of Perfluoroalkyl Substances, Former Fort Devens Army Installation, BRAC Legacy Sites, Devens, Massachusetts. Prepared for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, Concord, Massachusetts. Lockwood, Ron, Susan Lockwood, Tom Poole, and Tim Prior. 2002. Progress Report - Metapopulation Study and Habitat Restoration for the Regionally Threatened Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus Savannarum. September 15. Lockwood, Ron. 2009. Progress Report - Metapopulation Study and Habitat Restoration for the Regionally Threatened Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus Savannarum. May 30. Lockwood, Ron. 2010. Progress Report – Summary, Metapopulation Study and Habitat Restoration for the Regionally Threatened Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus Savannarum. May 9. Lockwood, Ron. 2011. Progress Report – Summary, Metapopulation Study and Habitat Restoration for the Regionally Threatened Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus Savannarum. April 20. Lockwood, Ron. 2013. Progress Report – Summary, Metapopulation Study and Habitat Restoration for the Regionally Threatened Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus Savannarum. April 22.

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Literature Cited

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). 2015. Massachusetts Year 2014 Integrated List of Waters, December. Accessed from https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2016/08/sa/14list2_0.pdf MassDEP. 2018. Massachusetts 2017 Air Quality Report. October. Accessed from https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2018/10/09/17aqrpt.pdf MassWildlife. 2016. 2015 Massachusetts State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP), Chapter 5 – Climate Change. Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife), Westborough, MA. Accepted November 8.Accessed from: https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2016/12/uo/ma-swap-public-draft- 26june2015-chapter5.pdf MassWildlife. 2019. Letter regarding 2019 INRMP and EA Preliminary Comments from the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. May 8. Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (MA DFG) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC). 2012. BioMap2 – Lancaster. Accessed 4/12/19 from https://www.mass.gov/service- details/biomap2-town-reports MassGIS. 2013. Hydrography (1:100,000) (GIS data file). Commonwealth of Massachusetts Bureau of Geographic Information (MassGIS), Boston, MA. Accessed 4/9/19 from https://docs.digital.mass.gov/dataset/massgis-data-hydrography-1100000 MassGIS. 2014. County Boundaries (GIS data file). MassGIS, Boston, MA. Accessed 4/9/19 from https://docs.digital.mass.gov/dataset/massgis-data-county-boundaries MassGIS. 2017. NRCS HUC Basins (8,10,12) (GIS data file). MassGIS, Boston, MA. Accessed 4/9/19 from https://docs.digital.mass.gov/dataset/massgis-data-nrcs-huc-basins- 81012 MassGIS. 2018. Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Roads (GIS data file). MassGIS, Boston, MA. Accessed 4/9/19 from https://docs.digital.mass.gov/dataset/massgis-data-massachusetts-department- transportation-massdot-roads MassGIS. 2019. Protected and Recreational OpenSpace (GIS data file). MassGIS, Boston, MA. Accessed 4/9/19 from https://docs.digital.mass.gov/dataset/massgis-data-protected- and-recreational-openspace MassGIS and Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP). 2013. NHESP Potential Vernal Pools (GIS data file). MassGIS, Boston, MA. Accessed 4/9/19 from https://docs.digital.mass.gov/dataset/massgis-data-nhesp-potential-vernal-pools

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Literature Cited

MassGIS and NHESP. 2017a. NHESP Estimated Habitats of Rare Wildlife (GIS data file). MassGIS, Boston, MA. Accessed 4/9/19 from https://docs.digital.mass.gov/dataset/massgis-data-nhesp-estimated-habitats-rare- wildlife MassGIS and NHESP. 2017b. NHESP Priority Habitats of Rare Species (GIS data file). MassGIS, Boston, MA. Accessed 4/9/19 from https://docs.digital.mass.gov/dataset/massgis- data-nhesp-priority-habitats-rare-species. MassGIS and NHESP. 2018. NHESP Certified Vernal Pools (GIS data file). MassGIS, Boston, MA. Accessed 4/9/19 from https://docs.digital.mass.gov/dataset/massgis-data-nhesp- certified-vernal-pools Mello, M.J. and E. Peters. 1992. Survey of Lepidoptera at Fort Devens with Notes on Sudbury Annex. A report submitted to Massachusetts Natural Heritage Program, Lloyd Center Report #92-93. Boston, MA. Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP). 2009. Guidelines for the Certification of Vernal Pool Habitat. MassWildlife. Accessed 4/29/19 from https://www.mass.gov/service-details/vernal-pool-certification NHESP. 2015. New England Blazing Star. MassWildlife. Accessed from: https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2016/09/ow/liatris-novae-angliae-2015.pdf NHESP. 2016a. Natural Community Fact Sheets - Kettlehole Level Bog. MassWildlife. Accessed 4/22/19 from: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/natural-community-fact-sheets NHESP. 2016b. Natural Community Fact Sheets - Alluvial Red Maple Swamp. MassWildlife. Accessed 4/22/19 from: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/natural-community- fact-sheets NHESP. 2016c. Natural Community Fact Sheets - Pitch Pine – Scrub Oak Community. MassWildlife. Accessed 4/22/19 from: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/natural- community-fact-sheets NHESP, 2016d. Natural Community Fact Sheets - Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Fact Sheet, MassWildlife Accessed from: https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2016/08/rf/haliaeetus-leucocephalus.pdf Normandeau Associates, Inc. 2018. Jurisdictional Wetlands and Waters Report, US Army Garrison Fort Devens, South Post Hotel Range Reconfiguration, Lancaster Township, Worcester County, Massachusetts, and Potential Vernal Pools, Delineated Wetland Boundary (GIS data files). Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). 2018. Soils Survey Areas MA017 and MA613 (GIS data files). Web Soil Survey. Accessed 5/17/19 from https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov

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Literature Cited

Oxbow Associates, Inc (Oxbow Assoc.). 2003. Devens Reserve Forces Training Area Ten-Year Follow Up Study on the Status & Occurrence of Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii). January 29. Oxbow Associates, Inc (Oxbow Assoc.). 2019. Vernal Pool Evaluation for Devens RFTA Hotel Range Reconfiguration. May 1. Renova Environmental Services (Renova). 2019. 2018 Annual Report – Long-Term Monitoring South Post Impact Area, Fort Devens Reserve Forces Training Area, Devens, Massachusetts. Prepared for the US Army Corps of Engineers, New England Division, Concord, Massachusetts. Sovereign and HGL, 2015. Final Long Term Monitoring and Maintenance Plan for Former Fort Devens Army Installation and Sudbury Annex. February. Stone & Webster Environmental Technology and Services. 1996. Conceptual Long-Term Monitoring Plan, South Post Impact Area. Prepared for the US Army Corps of Engineers, New England Division, Boston, Massachusetts. USACE New England District. 2012. FINAL - Fort Devens South Post Hydrogeologic Study Report. November 28. Prepared for the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Devens, Directorate of Public Works, Fort Devens, Massachusetts. USACE New England District. 2015. 2015 FIVE-YEAR REVIEW REPORT for Former Fort Devens Army Installation BRAC Legacy Sites Devens, Massachusetts. Prepared for: Army Base Realignment and Closure Division, U. S. Army Garrison Fort Devens. US Army. 2002. Department of the Army Wildland Fire Policy Guidance. September 4, 2002. US Army 2004. Training Circular 25-1. Training Land. March 15, 2004. US Army 2005. Army Regulation 350-19. The Army Sustainable Range Program. August 30, 2005. US Army. 2007. Army Regulation 200-1 (Environmental Protection and Enhancement). 13 December. US Army. 2013. Conservation Law Enforcement Program (CLEP) Instruction DoDI 5525.7. Signed October 17, 2013. US Army. 2018a. Natural Resource Conservation Program Instruction Manual DoDI/M 4715.03. Signed March 18, 2011, updated August 31, 2018. US Army. 2018b. Guidance for Addressing Climate Resiliency in Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans. March 5. US Army. 2018c. Army Climate Assessment Tool US Army. 2018d. Final Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact for Airspace Change Proposal at U.S. Army Garrison Fort Devens, Massachusetts, August 2018. A3-5 Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan-FINAL Devens Reserve Forces Training Area September 2019 Appendix A3 Revision 0

Literature Cited US Army. 2018e. United States Army Fort Devens, Standard Operating Procedure, Hunting Program. September 26. Devens, Massachusetts. US Army. 2019. ImpactArea (GIS data file). US Army Installation Geospatial Information and Services (IGI&S) Program: Devens, Massachusetts. Data received 5 April. US Army Environmental Center (US AEC), Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Division. 1996. Final Record of Decision for the South Post Impact Area and Area of Contamination 41 Groundwater and Areas of Contamination 25, 26, and 27. Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.

US Army Environmental Command. 2015. Environmental Command (AEC), INRMP Template Overview –Modified for Small Installations. US Army Reserve. 2001. Integrated Cultural Resources Management Plan (ICRMP), Devens Reserve Forces Training Area Devens, Massachusetts. US Climate Data. 2019. Web-generated data for Worcester, Massachusetts. Accessed from https://www.usclimatedata.com/climate/worcester/massachusetts/united- states/usma0502 US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1999. Fishery and Mussel Survey, Fort Devens USAG, South Post, Devens, Massachusetts. Office of Fishery Assistance, Laconia, New Hampshire. USFWS. 2005. Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge – Final Comprehensive Conservation Plan. January. Accessed from: https://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/Region_5/NWRS/North_Zone/Eastern_Massachu setts_Complex/Oxbow/Final_OXB_CCP.pdf USFWS and Fort Devens. 2008. Interagency Agreement between US Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge, and US DoD Department of the Army, Fort Devens U Army Garrison. June 8. USFWS. 2018a. National Wetland Inventory for HU8 01070004 (GIS data file). Wetland Mapping Project R05Y15P02. Accessed 4/29/19, from: https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/data/mapper.html USFWS. 2018b. Letter regarding list of Federally-listed species for the Airspace Change Proposal at Fort Devens, Massachusetts. March 23. USFWS. 2018c. Letter regarding list of Federally-listed species for MS4 NOI. August 22. USFWS. 2018d. Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) for DRFTA Property Report, web-generated on July 26. Accessed from: https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/ USFWS. 2019. Email regarding Northern Long-Eared Bat. June 17. A3-6 Integrated Natural Resourced Management Plan-FINAL Devens Reserve Forces Training Area September 2019 Appendix A3 Revision 0

Literature Cited

Waldron and Steeves. 2002. Survey and Inventory of Selected Wetland Complexes in the Devens, Massachusetts, Reserve Forces Training Area, Spring–Summer 2000. Prepared by USGS in cooperation with the US Army. Wicklow, B.J. 2001. Macroinvertebrate Survey of Ponakin Brook, Slate Rock Brook, and Spectacle Brook, Fort Devens USAG, South Post, Devens, Massachusetts. Saint Anselm College, Manchester, New Hampshire.

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Appendix A4. Agreements and Site-Specific Data

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Appendix A4.1 Sikes Act Tripartite Agreement Memorandum of Understanding

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MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AND THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AND THE ASSOCIATION OF FISH AND WILDLIFE AGENCIES FORA COOPERATIVE INTEGRATED NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM ON MILITARY INSTALLATIONS

A. PURPOSE

The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is to further a cooperative relationship between the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and state fish and wildlife agencies (states) acting through the Association ofFish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) (hereafter referred to as the Parties) in preparing, reviewing, revising, updating and implementing Integrated Natural Resource Management Plans (INRMPs) for military installations.

B. BACKGROUND

In recognition that military lands have significant natural resources, Congress enacted the Sikes Act in 1960 to address wildlife conservation and public access on military installations. The 1997 amendments to the Sikes Act require the DoD to develop and implement an INRMP for each military installation with significant natural resources. A 2012 amendment to the Sikes Act now authorizes the preparation ofiNRMPs for state-owned National Guard installations used for training pursuant to chapter 5 of title 32 of the United States Code. DoD must prepare all INRMPs in cooperation with the FWS and states. Each INRMP must reflect the mutual agreement of the Parties concerning conservation, protection, and management of fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats on military lands.

INRMPs provide for the management of natural resources, including fish and wildlife and their habitats. To the maximum extent practicable, they incorporate ecosystem management principles, and describe procedures and projects that manage and maintain the landscapes necessary to sustain military-controlled lands for mission purposes. INRMPs also allow for multipurpose uses of resources, including public access appropriate for those uses, provided such access does not conflict with military land use, security requirements, safety, or ecosystem needs, including the needs of fish and wildlife resources. Effective communications and coordination among the Parties, initiated early in the planning process at national, regional, and the military installation levels, is essential to developing, reviewing, and implementing comprehensive INRMPs. When such partnering involves the participation and coordination of all Parties regarding existing FWS and state natural resources management plans or initiatives, such as threatened and endangered species recovery plans or State Wildlife Action Plans, the mutual agreement of all Parties is achieved more easily. INRMPs provide for the conservation and rehabilitation of natural resources on military lands in ways that help ensure the readiness of the Armed Forces. Thus, a clear understanding of land use objectives for military lands should enable the Parties to have a common understanding of DoD's land management requirements.

This MOU addresses the responsibilities of the Parties to facilitate optimum management of natural resources on military installations. It replaces a DoD-FWS-AFWA MOU for Cooperative Integrated Natural Resources Management Program on Military Installations dated January 31, 2006, which expired January 31, 2011.

C. AUTHORITIES

This MOU is established under the authority of the Sikes Act, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 670a-670f, which requires the Secretary of Defense to carry out a program to provide for the conservation and rehabilitation of natural resources on military installations in cooperation with the FWS and states. The DoD's primary mission is national defense. DoD manages approximately 28 million acres of land and waters under the Sikes Act to support sustained military activities while conserving and protecting biological resources.

The FWS manages approximately 150 million acres ofthe National Wildlife Refuge System, and administers numerous fish and wildlife conservation and management statutes and authorities, including the: Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, Anadromous Fish Conservation Act, Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990, Federal Noxious Weed Act, Alien Species Prevention Enforcement Act of 1992, North American Wetland Conservation Act, and Coastal Barrier Resources Act.

The states in general possess broad trustee and police powers over fish and wildlife within their borders, including - absent a clear expression of Congressional intent to the contrary - fish and wildlife on federal lands within their borders. Where Congress has given federal agencies certain conservation responsibilities, such as for migratory birds or species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act, the states, in most cases, have cooperative management responsibilities.

The Sikes Act (16 U.S.C. 670c-1) allows the Secretary of a military department to enter into cooperative agreements with the states, local governments, Indian tribes, nongovernmental organizations, and individuals to provide for the maintenance and improvement of natural resources, or to benefit natural and historic research, both on and off DoD installations.

The Sikes Act (16 U.S.C. 670a(d)(2) also encourages the Secretary of Defense, to the greatest extent practicable, to enter into agreements to use the services, personnel, equipment, and facilities, with or without reimbursement, of the Secretary of the Interior or states in carrying out the provisions of this section.

The Economy Act (31 U.S.C. 1535 and 1536) allows a federal agency to enter into an agreement with another federal agency for services, when those services can be rendered in a more convenient or cost effective manner by another federal agency.

D. RESPONSIBILITIES

The Parties to this agreement hereby enter into a cooperative program of INRMP development, review, and implementation with mutually agreed-upon fish and wildlife conservation objectives to satisfy Sikes Act goals.

1. The DoD, the FWS and AFWA (Parties) mutually agree:

a. To meet at least annually at the headquarters' level to discuss implementation of this MOU. The DoD and FWS will alternate responsibilities for coordinating this annual meeting and any other meetings related to this MOU. Proposed amendments to the MOU should be presented in writing to the parties at least 15 days prior to the annual meeting. The terms of this MOU and any proposed amendments may be reviewed at the annual meeting. The meeting may also review mutual Sikes Act research and technology needs, accomplishments, and other emerging issues.

b. To participate in a Sikes Act Tripartite Core Group consisting of representatives from the Parties. This Core Group will meet at least quarterly, coordinated by the DoD, to discuss and develop projects and guidance to help prepare and implement INRMPs and to discuss Sikes Act issues of national importance.

c. To engage in sound management practices for natural resource protection and management pursuant to this MOU with full consideration for military readiness; native fish and wildlife; threatened, endangered and at-risk species; and the environment.

d. To promote the sustainable multipurpose use of natural resources on military installations- including hunting, fishing, trapping, and non-consumptive uses such as wildlife viewing, boating, and camping- in ways that are consistent with DoD's primary military mission and to the extent reasonably practicable.

e. To develop and implement supplemental Sikes Act MOUs or other agreements, as needed, at the regional and/or state level.

f. To recognize the most current DoD and FWS Sikes Act Guidance as the guidance for communication and cooperation of the Parties represented by this MOU.

g. To post current DoD, FWS, and state Sikes Act guidance documents within 14 days of completion on the following sites:

1. For DoD: https://www.denix.osd.mil/nr

11. For FWS: http://www.fws.gov/habitatconservation/sikes_act.html

111. For the states: http://www.fishwildlife.org h. To cooperatively prepare and conduct full reviews of all new INRMPs in a timely manner.

1. To require the DoD Components and appropriate FWS and state offices to conduct a review for operation and effect of each INRMP no less often than every five years, as required by the Sikes Act, and to document these reviews. As a means of facilitating and streamlining this statutory requirement, use the annual progress review of each INRMP as conducted by each DoD Component per DoD policy.

J. To encourage collaboration in annual progress reviews between representatives from each military installation with an INRMP and appropriate representatives from the other Parties.

1. The Parties shall discuss the performance of each military installation in meeting relevant DoD Natural Resources Focus Area metrics, and potential improvements to INRMP implementation, such as new projects or management practices.

11. Meetings may be in person or by another mutually acceptable means.

111. The Parties shall discuss methods and projects that the FWS and states can implement that support INRMP goals and objectives.

k. To streamline and expedite the review of INRMP updates or revisions, and to effectively address review for critical habitat exclusions based on the INRMP conservation benefit, when feasible:

1. DoD and the FWS will develop and implement a streamlined review process within six months of signature ofthis MOU that will allow for expedited review and approval (new signatures) of updated sections of each INRMP.

11. DoD will provide a means of easily identifying all changes to each updated or revised INRMP when forwarding it for review.

111. FWS will focus review on those parts of updated INRMPs that reflect changes from the previously reviewed version.

tv. FWS and the appropriate states will review all INRMPs with major revisions (e.g., changes required by mission realignments, the listing of new species or other significant action that has the potential to affect military operations or readiness).

v. DoD, FWS, and the states (acting through AFWA) will continue to seek opportunities to make INRMP review processes more efficient while sustaining and enhancing INRMP conservation effectiveness.

v1. The DoD Components may submit to the USFWS, a priority INRMP list to address those installations seeking critical habitat exclusions to facilitate coordination with USFWS Endangered Species office.

v11. To ensure consistency, the Parties accept the following definitions:

a) Compliant INRMP: An INRMP that has been both approved in writing, and reviewed, within the past five years, as to operation and effect, by authorized officials of DoD, DOl, and each appropriate state fish and wildlife agency. b) Review for operation and effect: A comprehensive, joint review by the parties to the INRMP, conducted no less often than every five years, to determine whether the plan needs an update or revision to continue to address adequately Sikes Act purposes and requirements. c) INRMP update: Any change to an INRMP that, if implemented, is not expected to result in consequences materially different from those in the existing INRMP and analyzed in an existing NEP A document. Such changes will not result in a significant environmental impact, and installations are not required to invite the public to review or to comment on the decision to continue implementing the updated INRMP. d) INRMP revision: Any change to an INRMP that, if implemented, may result in a significant environmental impact, including those not anticipated by the parties to the INRMP when the plan was last approved and/or reviewed as to operation and effect. All such revisions require approval by all parties to the INRMP, and will require a new or supplemental NEP A analysis.

l. That none of the Parties to the MOU is relinquishing any authority, responsibility, or duty established by law, regulation, policy, or directive.

m. To designate the officials listed below, or their delegates to participate in the activities pursuant to this MOU.

1. DoD: Deputy Director, Natural Resources Conservation Compliance, ODUSD (I&E) ESOH

11. FWS: National Sikes Act Coordinator, Fish and Aquatic Conservation

111. AFWA: Director, Government Affairs

2. DoD agrees to:

a. Communicate the establishment of this MOU to all DoD Components.

b. Take the lead in developing policies and guidance related to INRMP development, updates, revisions, and implementation, and to ensure the involvement, as appropriate, in these processes of the FWS and state fish and wildlife agencies. c. Ensure distribution of the DoD and FWS Sikes Act Guidance to all appropriate DoD Components. d. Encourage DoD Components to invite appropriate FWS and state fish and wildlife agency offices to participate in annual INRMP reviews. All such invitations should be extended at least 15 business days in advance of the scheduled review to facilitate meaningful participation by all three Parties. Meetings may be in person or by other mutually agreed upon means. e. Encourage DoD Components to take full advantage of FWS and state fish and wildlife agency natural resources expertise through the use of Economy Act transfers and cooperative agreements. Encourage DoD Components and FWS to explore the use of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act for technical assistance, fish stocking, and other conservation projects. Priority should be given to projects that:

1. Sustain the military mission.

11. Effectively apply ecosystem management principles.

111. Consider the strategic planning priorities of the FWS and the state fish and wildlife agency. f. Encourage DoD Components to give priority to INRMP requirements that:

1. Sustain military mission activities while ensuring conservation of natural resources.

11. Provide adequate staffing with the appropriate expertise for updating, revising, and implementing each INRMP within the scope of DoD Component responsibilities, mission, and funding constraints. g. Encourage DoD Components to discuss with the FWS and state fish and wildlife agencies all issues of mutual interest related to the protection, conservation, and management of fish and wildlife resources on DoD installations. h. Subject to mission, safety, security, and ecosystem requirements, provide public access to military installations to facilitate the sustainable multipurpose use of its natural resources.

1. Identify natural resource research needs, and develop research proposals with input from the Parties.

J. Identify opportunities to work with the DoD Components to facilitate:

1. Cooperative regional and local natural resource conservation partnerships and initiatives with FWS and state fish and wildlife agency offices.

11. Natural resources conservation technology transfer and training initiatives between the DoD Components, federal land management agencies, and state fish and wildlife agencies.

k. Provide law enforcement support to protect fish, wildlife, and plant resources on military installations consistent with jurisdiction and authority.

3. FWS agrees to:

a. Communicate the establishment of this MOU to each FWS Regional Office and appropriate field offices in close proximity to military installations.

b. Distribute the DoD and FWS Sikes Act Guidelines to each FWS Regional Office and appropriate field office in close proximity to military installations.

c. Designate regional and field office FWS liaisons to develop partnerships and help DoD implement joint management of ecosystem-based natural resource management programs, and provide a list of those liaisons to the DoD as needed.

d. Provide technical assistance with the appropriate expertise to the DoD in managing its resources within the scope of FWS responsibilities and funding constraints.

e. Encourage field offices to coordinate current and proposed FWS natural resource initiatives and research efforts with those that may relate to DoD installations, and to provide applicable installations with new and relevant information pertaining to distribution and/or research regarding listed and candidate species and species at-risk.

f. Inform DoD Components and affected installations regarding upcoming and reasonably foreseeable proposed listing and critical habitat designations that may potentially affect military installations in a timely manner before publication of such proposals in the Federal Register.

g. Encourage regional and field offices to expedite pending INRMP reviews that may affect foreseeable proposed listing of threatened and endangered species and critical habitat designations.

h. Provide law enforcement support as appropriate to protect fish, wildlife, and plant resources on military installations within the jurisdiction of the FWS.

1. Identify FWS refuges and other potential federal management areas in close proximity to military installations, and, where appropriate, participate in the joint management of ecosystem-based natural resource management projects that support INRMP and other planning goals, objectives, and implementation.

4. AFWA agrees to:

a. Communicate the establishment of this MOU to each state fish and wildlife agency director and appropriate personnel. b. Distribute the DoD and FWS Sikes Act Guidelines to each state fish and wildlife agency director and appropriate staff.

c. Facilitate and coordinate with the states to encourage them to:

1. Participate in developing, reviewing, updating, revising, approving and, as appropriate implementing INRMPs in a timely way upon request by military installation personnel.

n. Designate state liaisons to help develop partnerships and to help DoD installation staff implement natural resource conservation and management programs.

n1. Identify state wildlife management areas in close proximity to military installations and, where appropriate, participate in the joint management of ecosystem-based natural resources projects that support INRMP goals, objectives, and implementation.

IV. Provide technical assistance to DoD installation staff in adaptively managing natural resources within the scope of state responsibilities, funding constraints, and expertise.

v. Identify state personnel needs to develop, review, update/revise, approve, and implement INRMPs, and facilitate the identification of funding opportunities to address the fulfillment of state priorities.

v1. Coordinate current and proposed state natural resources research efforts with those that may relate to DoD installations.

vn. Coordinate with DoD installations to develop new, and implement existing, conservation plans and strategies, including, but not limited to State Wildlife Action Plans; the National Fish, Wildlife and Plants Climate Adaptation Strategy; goals or initiatives of the North American Bird Conservation Initiative (NABCI) and/or Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (PARC); and the National Fish Habitat Action Plan.

E. STATEMENT OF NO FINANCIAL OBLIGATION

This MOU does not impose any financial obligation on the part of any signatory.

F. ESTABLISHMENT OF COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS

The Parties are encouraged to enter into cooperative or interagency agreements to coordinate and implement natural resource management on military installations. If fiscal resources are required, the Parties must develop a separately funded cooperative or interagency agreement. Such cooperative or interagency agreements may also be entered into under the authority of the Sikes Act (16 U.S.C. 670c-l). Interagency agreements may be entered into under the authority of the Economy Act (31 U.S.C. 1535 and 1536). The Parties should also explore opportunities to utilize the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 661-666c) to facilitate agreements for FWS technical assistance, fish stocking, and other conservation activities. Each funded cooperative or interagency agreement shall include a work plan and a financial plan that identify goals, objectives, and a budget and payment schedule. A cooperative or interagency agreement to accomplish a study or research also will include a study design and methodology in the work plan. It is understood and agreed that any funds allocated via these cooperative or interagency agreements shall be expended in accordance with its terms and in the manner prescribed by the fiscal regulations and/or administrative policies of the party making the funds available.

G. AMENDMENTS

This MOU may be amended at any time by mutual written agreement of the Parties.

H. TERMINATION

Any party to this MOU may remove itself upon sixty (60) days written notice to the other parties.

I. EFFECTIVE DATE AND DURATION

This MOU will be in effect upon date of final signature, and will continue for ten years from date of final signature. The parties will meet six (6) months prior to the expiration of this MOU to discuss potential modifications and renewal terms. 1/~L\-\~ ~ Date John Conger Acting Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Installations and Environment) U.S. Department of Defense

C,. 24./.j 'cw~~ Date Dan Ashe Director Fish and Wildlife Service U.S. Department of Interior

~--lriLDL! Da1 :t I4MJ-~Ron Regan Executive Director Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies

Appendix A4.2 MassWildlife Letter regarding 2019 INRMP and EA Preliminary Comments from the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, dated May 8, 2019

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May 8, 2019

Fort Devens USAG 2019 Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan & Environmental Assessment Preliminary Comments from the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

The following, preliminary comments are being provided to inform the preparation of a draft Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan & Environmental Assessment (INRMP) for Fort Devens (the Property) as it relates to state-listed and other rare species and unique natural communities. Much of the information below was discussed, to a greater or lesser extent, during the April 25, 2019 stakeholder meeting. We appreciate the opportunity to provide preliminary comments, and look forward to providing additional comments on the draft INRMP when it is provided to stakeholders for review and feedback later this year. If you have any questions about this letter, please contact Jesse Leddick, Chief of Regulatory Review ([email protected] or 508-389-6386).

General Comments: Portions of the Property are mapped as Priority and/or Estimated Habitat for the following state-listed species, pursuant to the 14th Edition of the Massachusetts Natural Heritage Atlas.

Scientific Name Common Name Taxonomic Group MESA Status Euchlaena madusaria Sandplain Euchlaena Invertebrate Animal Special Concern Lycia rachelae Twilight Moth Invertebrate Animal Endangered Psectraglaea carnosa Pink Sallow Moth Invertebrate Animal Special Concern Speranza exonerata Pine Barrens Speranza Invertebrate Animal Special Concern Zanclognatha martha Pine Barrens Zanclognatha Invertebrate Animal Special Concern Williamsonia lintneri Ringed Boghaunter Invertebrate Animal Threatened Cyperus houghtonii Houghton's Flatsedge Vascular Plant Endangered Lygodium palmatum Climbing Fern Vascular Plant Special Concern

Panicum philadelphicum Philadelphia Panic-grass Vascular Plant Special Concern ssp. philadelphicum

Ammodramus savannarum Grasshopper Sparrow Vertebrate Animal Threatened Pooecetes gramineus Vesper Sparrow Vertebrate Animal Threatened Bartramia longicauda Upland Sandpiper Vertebrate Animal Endangered Caprimulgus vociferus Eastern Whip-poor-will Vertebrate Animal Special Concern Emydoidea blandingii Blanding's Turtle Vertebrate Animal Threatened Ambystoma laterale Blue-spotted Salamander Vertebrate Animal Special Concern

Note: Fact sheets for state-listed species can be found at www.mass.gov/nhesp.The Property is likely under- surveyed and we anticipate that other state-listed species may be present. Additionally, this list does not include other species of concern (e.g., Massachusetts State Wildlife Action Plan, Species of Greatest Conservation Need) that may occur on the Property; we have identified several non-listed rare species in the taxon-specific comments below.

As a first step, we recommend mapping natural communities across the Property, coupled with some degree of ground-truthing. One approach would be to develop an RFR to contract this out, and the Division would be happy to assist in drafting an RFR and scope of work. We recommend working with the Division to identify core areas for natural community mapping in order to focus on the most important habitats. We recommend using Swain, 2016 (Classification of the Natural Communities of Massachusetts. Version 2.0. NHESP. https://www.mass.gov/service- details/classification-of-natural-communities) as the classification scheme, and to the extent practicable, including information related to past land use and disturbance (fire, etc.) to evaluate how this has affected important natural communities. In short, mapping should evaluate what is there now as well as what would present with habitat management. For example, although Figure 3A identifies limited areas of Pitch pine – scrub oak (barren) community on the Property, larger portions either do or could provide high quality barrens habitat with appropriate management.

In addition and as articulated below for each taxonomic group, we recommend focusing on baseline data collection to better understand the distribution of (and key habitats used by) rare species, with an emphasis on state-listed species. With this in mind, we recommend that measurable goals and timelines associated with natural community mapping and baseline data collection (for key species or species groups) be incorporated into this INRMP, perhaps with a goal of completing and incorporating this into the next iteration of the INRMP. For key species, we recommend coordinating with the Division to develop survey protocols in advance of initiating field work; in many cases, Division biologists may be able to assist with baseline data collection. This baseline information will help inform future land use and/or management decisions as well as facilitate streamlined permitting associated with any future proposals requiring review under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA). All projects or activities proposed within Priority Habitat, which are not otherwise exempt pursuant to 321 CMR 10.14, require review by the Division for compliance with the MESA.

Amphibians: We recommend collection of baseline data to improve knowledge of the distribution and relative abundance of Blue-spotted Salamanders on the Property. In particular, we recommend aquatic trapping surveys to identify breeding habitats (vernal pools and other suitable wetland habitats) hosting relatively high densities of salamanders, with an emphasis on under-surveyed areas of the Property (e.g., Harvard, portions of Lancaster). Ideally, each area would be sampled at least twice to help guard against false negatives or unusually low abundance in any given sampling year. If resources are available, we would also recommend supplementing this work with an assessment of upland habitats associated with high priority breeding sites to help confirm where the greatest concentrations of salamanders are residing outside the breeding season. However, this type of assessment (typically using pitfall trapping) is expensive / labor intensive and may be something to consider for future INRMPs. Overall, protecting breeding habitats and surrounding upland forest habitats are critical to the conservation of Blue-spotted Salamanders. With that in mind, we recommend avoiding and minimizing disturbance to forest habitats, particularly within 800 feet of known and or suitable breeding habitats.

We also recommend calling surveys along shrubby / marshy margins (or floodplains) of the Nashua River, and at large shrub swamps near the River, to understand distribution and relative abundance of Northern Leopard Frog (Lithobates pipiens), a Species of Greatest Conservation Need.

Bats: We recommend collection of baseline data to identify whether state- and federally-listed bats, particularly the Northern Long-eared Bat (Myotis septentrionalis; NLEB), may be present on the Property. With this in mind, we would recommend: (a) identifying underground structures that might provide suitable over-wintering habitat; (b) surveys of identified structures to assess whether NLEB or other listed bats are overwintering in these structures; (c) mist-netting and radio telemetry of captured bats to identify and protect maternal roost trees on the Property; and (d) more general surveys to document the diversity of bat species on the Property. Methods could include acoustic surveys, mist-netting, and radio telemetry; we recommend coordinating with the Division and USFWS to determine appropriate survey methods.

Birds: Eastern Whip-poor-will The Property currently supports a robust population of Eastern Whip-poor-will. Habitat quality is the most important factor effecting the Whip-poor-will population on the Property. Whip-poor-will habitat consists of high integrity fire-influenced Barrens communities, and the Property offers many opportunities for large-scale Barrens management and restoration. Periodic surveys for this species are important to track populations, especially in response to changing habitat conditions (e.g., declining habitat quality vs. improving habit quality resulting from habitat management). Currently there is one formal Whip-poor-will survey route through the Property (ten stops, each separated by 1-mile), designed to intersect what is considered to be the best Whip-poor-will habitat (typically Barrens communities). This route should be run annually, and be periodically evaluated to determine if it needs to be adjusted or expanded. Additionally, and of highest priority, we recommend assessing opportunities to expand the extent and quality of Barrens habitat on the Property, as detailed below in the Key Habitats section.

Grassland Birds

Scientific Name Common Name Taxonomic Group MESA Status Ammodramus savannarum Grasshopper Sparrow Vertebrate Animal Threatened Pooecetes gramineus Vesper Sparrow Vertebrate Animal Threatened Bartramia longicauda Upland Sandpiper Vertebrate Animal Endangered

Habitat use on the Property by grassland birds is fairly well understood, with the Drop Zone providing the most important habitat for three listed grassland bird species. It is likely that the Drop Zone provides habitat for additional grassland birds of conservation concern, such as the Eastern Meadowlark (Sturnella magna; proposed Special Concern). As it has been some time since grassland bird surveys were done, we recommend conducting updated surveys at the Drop Zone. Ideally, we recommend surveying three times during the first three weeks of June, with the Division consulted on appropriate survey methods. Additionally, and of highest priority, we recommend assessing opportunities to improve grassland habitat quality in the Drop Zone, as detailed below in the Key Habitats section.

Moths:

Taxonomic MESA Scientific Name Common Name Host Plant(s) Flight Period Group Status Polyphagous, often Sandplain Invertebrate 1st brood in June, 2nd Euchlaena madusaria SC lowbush blueberries Euchlaena Animal brood in August (Vaccinium spp.) Polyphagous Invertebrate Lycia rachelae Twilight Moth E (preference for late March - late April Animal Populus and Salix) Invertebrate Lowbush blueberries Late September – late Psectraglaea carnosa Pink Sallow Moth SC Animal (Vaccinium spp.) October Pine Barrens Invertebrate Scrub Oak (Quercus Speranza exonerata SC Mid-June – mid-July Speranza Animal ilicifolia) Pine Barrens Invertebrate Pitch Pine (Pinus early July - early Zanclognatha martha SC Zanclognatha Animal rigida) August

We recommend collection of baseline data to evaluate the distribution of state-listed Lepidoptera within suitable habitats on the Property. Suitable habitat consists primarily of fire-influenced Barrens communities (with scrub oak and blueberry understories), and the Property offers many opportunities for large-scale Barrens management and restoration. Specifically, surveys would involve nocturnal light trapping per the table above, with the Division

consulted on appropriate survey methods and timing. Additionally, and of highest priority, we recommend assessing opportunities to expand the extent and quality of Barrens habitat on the Property, as detailed below in the Key Habitats section.

Plants:

Scientific Name Common Name Taxonomic Group MESA Status Carex typhina* Cat-tail Sedge Vascular Plant Threatened Cyperus houghtonii Houghton's Flatsedge Vascular Plant Endangered Elymus macgregorii* Early Wild Rye Vascular Plant Watch List Geranium bicknellii* Bicknell's Crane's Bill Vascular Plant Watch List Liatris novae-angliae New England Blazing Star Vascular Plant Special Concern Lupinus perennis Wild Lupine Vascular Plant Watch List Lygodium palmatum Climbing Fern Vascular Plant Special Concern Maianthemum trifolium* Three-leaved Solomon's Seal Vascular Plant Watch List Panicum philadelphicum Philadelphia Panic-grass Vascular Plant Special Concern ssp. philadelphicum *Historic records (>25 years old).

We recommend collection of baseline data to improve knowledge about the distribution and relative abundance of state-listed and other rare plants on the Property. We recommend identifying important natural community types (through the mapping process above) and using this – with consultation with Division botanists - to inform target species and focal areas. Division botanists look forward to assisting with baseline data collection, in coordination with Devens staff. Additionally, we recommend assessing opportunities to expand the extent and quality of habitat for rare plants on the Property. For example, Wild Lupine and New England Blazing Star are likely to benefit greatly from the grassland / Barrens habitat management recommendations detailed below in the Key Habitats section. Periodic follow-up surveys would be helpful to track rare plant populations, especially in response to changing habitat conditions (e.g., declining habitat quality vs. improving habit quality resulting from habitat management).

Reptiles: The Property encompasses a substantial portion of New England’s most significant population of Blanding’s Turtles, and should be expected to occur in any shrub- or emergent wetland on the Property. We recommend collection of baseline data to improve knowledge about the distribution and relative abundance of Blanding’s Turtles on the Property, with a focus on identifying important nesting areas. We recommend that any Blanding’s Turtles observations be photographed, GPS-located and reported to the Division. Finally, and as discussed during our recent site visit, we recommend evaluating opportunities to minimize adult mortality that may inadvertently result from training activities, such as installation of fencing and or upgraded wildlife crossings to minimize road- related mortalities.

More broadly, we would encourage Devens to collaborate with the Division (who manages the adjacent Bolton Flats Wildlife Management Area) and the USFWS’s Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge to identify and prioritize shared management needs for Blanding’s Turtles in the larger Devens complex. Massachusetts is partnering with adjacent range states (Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania) to assess the long-term population trends of Blanding’s Turtles using standardized protocols and implement necessary habitat management actions. We would welcome Devens’ involvement in that working group and would be happy to join staff onsite for field trainings, evaluating habitat management needs, and or collecting baseline data.

Key Habitats: With the potential to affect all natural communities and rare species, we recommend developing an invasive species monitoring and management plan. A critical aspect of such a plan is to prioritize focal areas and target species, with important natural communities and rare species habitats being the highest priority areas for monitoring and control. High priority species (those that typically impact wetlands or important xeric communities) include phragmites and spotted knapweed.

Barrens Devens supports one of the most important complexes of fire-influenced woodland communities in interior Massachusetts. These communities are disturbance dependent (fire), and areas within Devens that see regular fire (primarily, the Impact Area) host some of the best examples of the globally rare Inland Pitch Pine-Scrub Oak and Oak-Heath type woodland communities (collectively referred to as Barrens) in the Northeast. In turn, these high integrity Barrens support a wealth of highly specialized and often quite rare species, such as Eastern Whip-poor- will (Special Concern) and a suite of MESA-listed Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies). However, the high integrity Barrens communities in the Impact Area represent just a fraction of the overall Barrens community potential at Devens. Large areas of declining (fire suppressed) Pine Pine-Scrub Oak communities, and communities in the Oak- Heath continuum, occur across the Property on areas of glacially derived substrates (sand and gravel). With restoration and management, these supporting Barrens communities – currently in decline – offer an opportunity to elevate Devens to a globally significant Inland Barrens complex.

Restoration of declining woodland Barrens communities such as those found at Devens typically involves a predictable sequence:

a. An initial timber harvest to reset the community’s structure and species composition. The structure of these communities is often savanna-like, with open canopies (low density emergent oaks and pitch pine) above a mosaic ground cover of shrubland (scrub oak), heath (lowbush blueberry) and graminoids (sedges and warm-season grasses). The composition of these communities is dominated by the species listed in the previous sentence, and the timber harvest would target the removal of generalist, fire intolerant species (white pine, red maple) that become dominant in the absence of fire. Timber harvests are typically whole tree removal operations, with the intention of removing as much biomass as possible in order to keep the droughty parent soils poor and keep fuel loads low for fire safety.

b. Following the timber harvest, maintaining these communities with regular disturbance is critical. Prescribed fire is by far the best tool for this. Recurring prescribed fire naturally removes establishing generalist fire-intolerant species, continuously reduces fuel loads, and maintains soil conditions favorable for the perpetuation of desirable, fire-adapted species. Mowing can also be used as a disturbance tool, and can be especially effective if used to complement prescribed fire (ex. between fire events).

Natural community mapping will inform the extent of Barrens restoration and management opportunities at Devens, though Division staff can also assist with identifying opportunities, setting restoration priorities, and ultimately designing and executing restoration and management plans.

Grasslands Currently, the Drop Zone is rapidly shifting away from a warm-season grassland toward a grassland dominated by cool season grasses, clonal forbs and low woody vegetation. The MESA-listed grassland birds that the Drop Zone currently supports are warm-season grassland obligates, and it is expected that these species will decline as the warm season grassland community continues to shift toward a cool season grassland community. As discussed during our recent meeting, we believe there may be opportunities to help restore and expand warm season grassland habitat in the Drop Zone by incorporating prescribed fire and herbicide application into grassland habitat management. The use of herbicide for initial warm season grassland restoration, coupled with use of prescribed fire for restoration and long-term grassland maintenance, would likely reduce long-term management effort (e.g.,

the frequency / extent of mowing) without compromising the utility of the Drop Zone for training needs. Warm season grasses mature later than cool season grasses and don’t bolt until late June or early July, allowing for mowing to be delayed until after the peak nesting periods. Therefore, we recommend preparing an updated management plan that incorporates use of prescribed fire and potentially herbicide as key tools for long-term grasslands maintenance. A similar effort was initiated at the Westover Air Reserve Base (Chicopee, MA) a few years ago, and it has resulted in reduced mowing needs while also benefitting state-listed birds.

Listed grassland bird species are area sensitive, meaning that they are only found nesting in large patches of suitable grassland habitat. They also avoid edge habitat, making them sensitive to structures and or vegetation that disrupt the open grasslands. Therefore, we recommend removal of trees and shrubs, particularly those associated with Ponakin Brook and other streams/wetlands that encroach into the Drop Zone.

There may be other potential areas for sandplain grassland (warm season grassland) enhancement / management at Devens. These would include open areas larger than 10 acres with well-drained sandy soils. The open grassy area immediately north of the rifle ranges is a good example of this potential, and other areas likely exist. Natural community mapping will be useful in identifying these potential areas.

Vernal Pools The Property contains approximately 37 potential vernal pools, and perhaps many others, that may meet the criteria for certification. We recommend that the INRMP incorporate a plan for conducting vernal pool egg mass surveys to document species richness and relative abundance of pool-breeding amphibians, and to certify all vernal pools on the Property that meet the criteria for certification. This effort could potentially be done in concert with field surveys for Blue-spotted Salamanders described above.

Wetlands The many wetlands at Devens offer potentially important management opportunities improve habitat quality. For example, several of the impounded features on the outwash of the southeastern area of Devens support unique plant communities, especially those on peat or sand and gravel. Manipulating water levels in the impounded features – for example, lowering water for extended durations, then occasionally flooding to maintain early successional habitat structure - may result in the restoration of important plant communities such Acidic Graminoid Fens and Level Bog. Additionally, there are several extant occurrences of peatlands with spruce components; we recommend inventorying and assessing these habitats, in particular.

Appendix A4.3 USFWS Consultation and IPaC for Airspace Change ProposalAgreements and Site-Specific Data

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Airspace Change Proposal June 2018

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Appendix C Airspace Change Proposal June 2018

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Appendix C Airspace Change Proposal June 2018

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Appendix C Airspace Change Proposal June 2018

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Appendix C Airspace Change Proposal June 2018

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Appendix C Airspace Change Proposal June 2018

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Appendix C

Appendix A4.4 USFWS Preliminary IPaC Entire PropertyAgreements and Site-Specific Data

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IPaC: Explore Location Page 1 of 15

IPaC U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

IPaC resource list

This report is an automatically generated list of species and other resources such as critical habitat (collectively referred to as trust resources) under the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (USFWS) jurisdiction that are known or expected to be on or near the project area referenced below. The list may also include trust resources that occur outside of the project area, but that could potentially be

Local office

New England Ecological Services Field Office

(603) 223-2541 (603) 223-0104

70 Commercial Street, Suite 300 Concord, NH 03301-5094

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http://www.fws.gov/newengland

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Endangered species

This resource list is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an analysis of project level impacts.

The primary information used to generate this list is the known or expected range of each species. Additional areas of influence (AOI) for species are also considered. An AOI includes areas outside of the species range if the species could be indirectly affected by activities in that area (e.g., placing a dam upstream of a fish population, even if that fish does not occur at the dam site, may indirectly impact the species by reducing or eliminating water flow downstream). Because species can move, and site conditions can change, the species on this list are not guaranteed to be found on or near

Species and critical habitats under the sole responsibility of NOAA Fisheries are not shown on this list. Please contact NOAA Fisheries for species under their jurisdiction.

1. Species listed under the Endangered Species Act are threatened or endangered; IPaC also shows species that are candidates, or proposed, for listing. See the listing status page for more information. 2. NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce.

The following species are potentially affected by activities in this location:

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Mammals NAME STATUS

Northern Long-eared Bat Myotis septentrionalis Threatened No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9045

Flowering Plants NAME STATUS

1. The Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918. 2. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940.

Additional information can be found using the following links:

• Birds of Conservation Concern http://www.fws.gov/birds/management/managed-species/ birds-of-conservation-concern.php • Measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to birds http://www.fws.gov/birds/management/project-assessment-tools-and-guidance/ conservation-measures.php

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• Nationwide conservation measures for birds http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/pdf/management/nationwidestandardconservationmeasures.pdf

The birds listed below are birds of particular concern either because they occur on the USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) list or warrant special attention in your project location. To learn more about the levels of concern for birds on your list and how this list is generated, see the FAQ below. This is not a list of every bird you may find in this location, nor a guarantee that every bird on this list will be found in your project area. To see exact locations of where birders and the general public have sighted birds in and around your project area, visit the E-bird data mapping tool (Tip: enter your location, desired date range and a species on your list). For projects that occur off the Atlantic Coast, additional maps and models detailing the relative occurrence and abundance of

LIKELY BREED IN YOUR PROJECT AREA.)

Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Breeds Oct 15 to Aug 31 This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1626

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Black-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus erythropthalmus Breeds May 15 to Oct 10 This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9399

Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus Breeds May 20 to Jul 31 This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

Canada Warbler Cardellina canadensis Breeds May 20 to Aug 10

This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

Prairie Warbler Dendroica discolor Breeds May 1 to Jul 31 This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

Red-headed Woodpecker Melanerpes erythrocephalus Breeds May 10 to Sep 10 This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

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Rusty Blackbird Euphagus carolinus Breeds elsewhere This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla Breeds elsewhere This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.

Short-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus griseus Breeds elsewhere This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in

A taller bar indicates a higher probability of species presence. The survey effort (see below) can be used to establish a level of confidence in the presence score. One can have higher confidence in the presence score if the corresponding survey effort is also high.

How is the probability of presence score calculated? The calculation is done in three steps:

1. The probability of presence for each week is calculated as the number of survey events in the week where the species was detected divided by the total number of survey events for that week. For example, if in week 12 there were 20 survey events and the Spotted Towhee was found in 5 of them, the probability of presence of the Spotted Towhee in week 12 is 0.25. 2. To properly present the pattern of presence across the year, the relative probability of presence is calculated. This is the probability of presence divided by the maximum probability of presence

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across all weeks. For example, imagine the probability of presence in week 20 for the Spotted Towhee is 0.05, and that the probability of presence at week 12 (0.25) is the maximum of any week of the year. The relative probability of presence on week 12 is 0.25/0.25 = 1; at week 20 it is 0.05/0.25 = 0.2. 3. The relative probability of presence calculated in the previous step undergoes a statistical conversion so that all possible values fall between 0 and 10, inclusive. This is the probability of presence score.

To see a bar's probability of presence score, simply hover your mouse cursor over the bar.

Breeding Season () Yellow bars denote a very liberal estimate of the time-frame inside which the bird breeds across its

area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in offshore areas from certain types of development or activities.)

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Black-billed Cuckoo BCC Rangewide (CON) (This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.)

Bobolink BCC Rangewide (CON) (This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range

(CON) (This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.)

Lesser Yellowlegs BCC Rangewide (CON) (This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.)

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Nelson's Sparrow BCC Rangewide (CON) (This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.)

Prairie Warbler BCC Rangewide (CON) (This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental

Short-billed Dowitcher BCC Rangewide (CON) (This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.)

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Willet BCC Rangewide (CON) (This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska.)

Wood Thrush BCC Rangewide (CON) (This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental

representative of all birds that may occur in your project area. To get a list of all birds potentially present in your project area, please visit the E-bird Explore Data Tool.

What does IPaC use to generate the probability of presence graphs for the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location?

The probability of presence graphs associated with your migratory bird list are based on data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN). This data is derived from a growing collection of survey, banding, and citizen science datasets .

Probability of presence data is continuously being updated as new and better information becomes available. To learn more about how the probability of presence graphs are produced and how to interpret them, go the Probability of Presence Summary and then click on the "Tell me about these graphs" link.

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How do I know if a bird is breeding, wintering, migrating or present year-round in my project area?

To see what part of a particular bird's range your project area falls within (i.e. breeding, wintering, migrating or year-round), you may refer to the following resources: The Cornell Lab of Ornithology All About Birds Bird Guide, or (if you are unsuccessful in locating the bird of interest there), the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Neotropical Birds guide. If a bird on your migratory bird species list has a breeding season associated with it, if that bird does occur in your project area, there may be nests present at some point within the timeframe specified. If "Breeds elsewhere" is indicated, then the bird likely does not breed in your project area.

What are the levels of concern for migratory birds?

Migratory birds delivered through IPaC fall into the following distinct categories of concern:

What if I have eagles on my list?

If your project has the potential to disturb or kill eagles, you may need to obtain a permit to avoid violating the Eagle Act should such impacts occur.

Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report

The migratory bird list generated is not a list of all birds in your project area, only a subset of birds of priority concern. To learn more about how your list is generated, and see options for identifying what other birds may be in your project area, please see the FAQ “What does IPaC use to generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specified location”. Please be aware this report provides the “probability of presence” of birds within the 10 km grid cell(s) that overlap your project; not your exact project footprint. On the graphs provided, please also look

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carefully at the survey effort (indicated by the black vertical bar) and for the existence of the “no data” indicator (a red horizontal bar). A high survey effort is the key component. If the survey effort is high, then the probability of presence score can be viewed as more dependable. In contrast, a low survey effort bar or no data bar means a lack of data and, therefore, a lack of certainty about presence of the species. This list is not perfect; it is simply a starting point for identifying what birds of concern have the potential to be in your project area, when they might be there, and if they might be breeding (which means nests might be present). The list helps you know what to look for to confirm presence, and helps guide you in knowing when to implement conservation measures to avoid or minimize potential impacts from your project activities, should presence be confirmed. To learn more about conservation measures, visit the FAQ “Tell me about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory birds” at the bottom of your migratory bird trust resources page.

PHYSICAL ADDRESS C/o Eastern Massachuestts Nwr Complex 73 Weir Hill Road Sudbury, MA 01766-1420

https://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=53512

Fish hatcheries

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THERE ARE NO FISH HATCHERIES AT THIS LOCATION.

Wetlands in the National Wetlands Inventory

Impacts to NWI wetlands and other aquatic habitats may be subject to regulation under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, or other State/Federal statutes.

For more information please contact the Regulatory Program of the local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers District.

PFO4C PFO4A

FRESHWATER POND PUBH PUBHh PABH

LAKE L1UBH

RIVERINE R2UBH

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R5UBH R4SBC

A full description for each wetland code can be found at the National Wetlands Inventory website

Data limitations

The Service's objective of mapping wetlands and deepwater habitats is to produce reconnaissance level information on the location, type and size of these resources. The maps are prepared from the analysis of high altitude imagery. Wetlands are identified based on vegetation, visible hydrology and geography. A margin of error is inherent in the use of imagery; thus, detailed on-the-ground inspection of any particular site may result in revision of the wetland boundaries or classification established through image analysis.

activities.

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Appendix A4.5 USFWS Consultation and IPaC for MS4 NOI

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United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE New England Ecological Services Field Office 70 Commercial Street, Suite 300 Concord, NH 03301-5094 Phone: (603) 223-2541 Fax: (603) 223-0104 http://www.fws.gov/newengland

In Reply Refer To: August 22, 2018 Consultation Code: 05E1NE00-2018-SLI-2842 Event Code: 05E1NE00-2018-E-06662 Project Name: MS4 NOI

Subject: List of threatened and endangered species that may occur in your proposed project location, and/or may be affected by your proposed project

To Whom It May Concern:

The enclosed species list identifies threatened, endangered, proposed and candidate species, as well as proposed and final designated critical habitat, that may occur within the boundary of your proposed project and/or may be affected by your proposed project. The species list fulfills the requirements of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) under section 7(c) of the Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

New information based on updated surveys, changes in the abundance and distribution of species, changed habitat conditions, or other factors could change this list. Please feel free to contact us if you need more current information or assistance regarding the potential impacts to federally proposed, listed, and candidate species and federally designated and proposed critical habitat. Please note that under 50 CFR 402.12(e) of the regulations implementing section 7 of the Act, the accuracy of this species list should be verified after 90 days. This verification can be completed formally or informally as desired. The Service recommends that verification be completed by visiting the ECOS-IPaC website at regular intervals during project planning and implementation for updates to species lists and information. An updated list may be requested through the ECOS-IPaC system by completing the same process used to receive the enclosed list.

The purpose of the Act is to provide a means whereby threatened and endangered species and the ecosystems upon which they depend may be conserved. Under sections 7(a)(1) and 7(a)(2) of the Act and its implementing regulations (50 CFR 402 et seq.), Federal agencies are required to utilize their authorities to carry out programs for the conservation of threatened and endangered species and to determine whether projects may affect threatened and endangered species and/or designated critical habitat. 08/22/2018 Event Code: 05E1NE00-2018-E-06662 2

A Biological Assessment is required for construction projects (or other undertakings having similar physical impacts) that are major Federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the human environment as defined in the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2) (c)). For projects other than major construction activities, the Service suggests that a biological evaluation similar to a Biological Assessment be prepared to determine whether the project may affect listed or proposed species and/or designated or proposed critical habitat. Recommended contents of a Biological Assessment are described at 50 CFR 402.12.

If a Federal agency determines, based on the Biological Assessment or biological evaluation, that listed species and/or designated critical habitat may be affected by the proposed project, the agency is required to consult with the Service pursuant to 50 CFR 402. In addition, the Service recommends that candidate species, proposed species and proposed critical habitat be addressed within the consultation. More information on the regulations and procedures for section 7 consultation, including the role of permit or license applicants, can be found in the "Endangered Species Consultation Handbook" at: http://www.fws.gov/endangered/esa-library/pdf/TOC-GLOS.PDF

Please be aware that bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668 et seq.), and projects affecting these species may require development of an eagle conservation plan (http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/ eagle_guidance.html). Additionally, wind energy projects should follow the wind energy guidelines (http://www.fws.gov/windenergy/) for minimizing impacts to migratory birds and bats.

Guidance for minimizing impacts to migratory birds for projects including communications towers (e.g., cellular, digital television, radio, and emergency broadcast) can be found at: http:// www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/towers.htm; http:// www.towerkill.com; and http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/CurrentBirdIssues/Hazards/towers/ comtow.html.

We appreciate your concern for threatened and endangered species. The Service encourages Federal agencies to include conservation of threatened and endangered species into their project planning to further the purposes of the Act. Please include the Consultation Tracking Number in the header of this letter with any request for consultation or correspondence about your project that you submit to our office.

Attachment(s):

▪ Official Species List

08/22/2018 Event Code: 05E1NE00-2018-E-06662 1

Official Species List This list is provided pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, and fulfills the requirement for Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary of the Interior information whether any species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of a proposed action".

This species list is provided by:

New England Ecological Services Field Office 70 Commercial Street, Suite 300 Concord, NH 03301-5094 (603) 223-2541

08/22/2018 Event Code: 05E1NE00-2018-E-06662 2

Project Summary Consultation Code: 05E1NE00-2018-SLI-2842

Event Code: 05E1NE00-2018-E-06662

Project Name: MS4 NOI

Project Type: ** OTHER **

Project Description: The Department of the Army Fort Devens is preparing a Notice of Intent (NOI) for stormwater discharges from small municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4) permit in Massachusetts, in compliance with the provisions of the Clean Water Act (CWA), as amended (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.), and the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act, as amended (M.G.L. Chap.21 §§ 26-53).

This permit would authorize the discharge of stormwater from small MS4s as defined at 40 CFR § 122.26(b) (16). This includes MS4s described in 40 CFR §122.32(a) (1) and (a) (2). Coverage under this permit is for State, federal, county and other publicly owned properties (Non-traditional) (MAR042000). A small MS4 within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is located within an urbanized area as determined by the latest Decennial Census by the Bureau of Census as of the effective date of the permit.

Fort Devens is located in north-central Massachusetts approximately 35 miles northwest of Boston, in the Nashua River valley. The portions of Fort Devens covered under the NOI, as determined by the 2010 census, include the Main Cantonment, 3400 Area, cemetery, and airfield. Species listed as threatened in these areas, from preliminary IPaC research, are the Northern Long-eared Bat and the Small Whorled Pogonia. Neither lists any designated critical habitat.

The proposed action covered by the NOI is the development and implementation of a stormwater management program. Stormwater discharges and discharge related activities are not likely to adversely affect any species listed as endangered or threatened under the ESA. If plans to install a structural BMP are identified, Fort Devens will re-initiate consultation with USFWS as necessary.

Project Location: Approximate location of the project can be viewed in Google Maps: https:// www.google.com/maps/place/42.53700647208569N71.64116523316784W

08/22/2018 Event Code: 05E1NE00-2018-E-06662 3

Counties: Middlesex, MA | Worcester, MA

08/22/2018 Event Code: 05E1NE00-2018-E-06662 4

Endangered Species Act Species There is a total of 2 threatened, endangered, or candidate species on this species list.

Species on this list should be considered in an effects analysis for your project and could include species that exist in another geographic area. For example, certain fish may appear on the species list because a project could affect downstream species.

IPaC does not display listed species or critical habitats under the sole jurisdiction of NOAA Fisheries1, as USFWS does not have the authority to speak on behalf of NOAA and the Department of Commerce.

See the "Critical habitats" section below for those critical habitats that lie wholly or partially within your project area under this office's jurisdiction. Please contact the designated FWS office if you have questions.

1. NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce.

Mammals NAME STATUS Northern Long-eared Bat Myotis septentrionalis Threatened No critical habitat has been designated for this species. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9045

Flowering Plants NAME STATUS Small Whorled Pogonia Isotria medeoloides Threatened No critical habitat has been designated for this species. Species profile: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1890

Critical habitats THERE ARE NO CRITICAL HABITATS WITHIN YOUR PROJECT AREA UNDER THIS OFFICE'S JURISDICTION.

Appendix A4.6 a. Table of Confirmed Fauna at DRFTA (Fort Devens, 2010)

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Appendix 3.3.2: Confirmed Fauna of FT Devens USAG

Common Name Family Scientific Name FISH American eel Anguillidae Anguilla rostrata white sucker Catastomidae Catostomus commersoni pumpkinseed Centrarchidae Lepomis gibbosus banded sunfish Enneacanthus obescus bluegill* Lepomis macrochirus largemouth bass* Micropterus salmoides black crappie Pomoxis nibromaculatus swamp darter Etheostoma fusiforme goldfish Cyprinidae Carassius auratus golden shiner Notemigonus crysoleucas bridle shiner Notropis bifrenatus chain pickerel Esocidae Esox niger yellow bullhead Ictaluridae Ameiurus natalis brown bullhead* Ameiurus nebulosus white perch Percichthyidae Morone americana yellow perch* Percidae Perca flavescens brook trout* Salmonidae Salvelinus fontinalis rainbow trout* Salmo gairdneri brown trout* Salmo trutta AMPHIBIANS blue-spotted salamander Ambystomidae Ambystoma laterale spotted salamander Ambystoma maculatum American toad Bufonidae Bufo americanus Woodhouse’s toad Bufo woodhousei spring peeper Hylidae Hyla crucifer gray treefrog Hyla versicolor dusky salamander Plethodontidae Desmognathus fuscus two-lined salamander Eurycea bislineata red backed salamander Plethodon cinereus bullfrog Ranidae Rana catesbeiana green frog Rana clamitans pickerel frog Rana palustris northern leopard frog Rana pipiens wood frog Rana sylvatica red spotted newt Salamandridae Notopthalmus viridescens REPTILES snapping turtle Chelydridae Chelydra serpentine northern black racer Colubridae Coluber constrictor northern ringneck snake Diadophis punctatus corn snake Elaphe guttata eastern milk snake Lampropeltis triangulum northern water snake Nerodia sipedon smooth green snake Opheodrys vernalis northern brown snake Storeria dekayi

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Common Name Family Scientific Name northern redbelly snake Storeria occipitomaculata northern ribbon snake Thamnophis sauritus common garter snake Thamnophis sirtalis painted turtle Emydidae Chrysemys picta belli spotted turtle Clemmys guttata wood turtle Clemmys insulpta Blanding’s turtle Emydoidea blandingii eastern box turtle Terrapene carolina stinkpot Kinosternidae Sternotherus odoratus BIRDS Cooper’s hawk Accipitridae Accipiter cooperii northen goshawk Accipiter gentilis sharp-shinned hawk Accipiter striatus red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus broad-winged hawk Buteo platypterus northern harrier Circus cyaneus bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus osprey Pandion haliaetus horned lark Alaudidae Eremophila alpestris belted kingfisher Alcedinidae Ceryle alcyon wood duck* Anatidae Aix sponsa northern pintail Anas acuta American widgeon Anas americana green-winged teal* Anas crecca blue-winged teal* Anas discors mallard* Anas platyrhynchos American black duck* Anas rubripes lesser scaup Aythya affinis redhead Aythya americana ring-necked duck Aythya collaris canvasback Aythya valisineria Canada goose Branta canadensis common goldeneye Bucephala clangula snow goose Chen caerulescens hooded merganser Lophodytes cucullatus common merganser Mergus merganser ruddy duck Oxyura jamaicensis chimney swift Apodidae Chaetura pelagica great blue heron Ardeidae Ardea herodias American bittern Botaurus lentiginosus green-backed heron Butorides striatus snowy egret Egretta thula black-crowned night-heron Nycticorax nycticorax cedar waxwing Bombycillidae Combycilla cedrorum whip-poor-will Caprimulgidae Caprimulgus vociferus

Integrated Natural Resources Management FT Devens USAG, Massachusetts Plan/Environmental Assessment 163

Common Name Family Scientific Name common nighthawk Chordeiles minor turkey vulture Cathartidae Cathartes aura brown creeper Certhiidae Carthia americana semipalmated plover Charadriidae Charadrius semipalmatus killdeer Charadrius vociferus rock dove Columbidae Columbia livia mourning dove Zenaida macroura common crow Cornidae Corvus brachyrhynchos blue jay Cyanocitta cristata yellow-billed cuckoo Cuculidae Coccyzus americanus black-billed cuckoo Coccyzus erythropthalmus red winged black bird Emberizidae Aeglaius phoeniceus grasshopper sparrow Ammodramus savannarum lapland longspur Calcarius lapponicus northern cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis prairie warbler Dendroica discolor palm warbler Dendroica palmarum yellow warbler Dendroica petechia blackpoll warbler Dendroica stariata black throated green warbler Dendroica virens Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus rusty blackbird Euphagus carolinus common yellow-throat Geothlypis trichas northern oriole Icterus galbula dark-eyed junco Junco hyemalis swamp sparrow Melospiza georgiana Lincoln’s sparrow Melospiza lincolnii song sparrow Melospiza melodia black and white warbler Mniotilta varia brown headed cowbird Molothrus ater savannah sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis fox sparrow Passerella iliaca indigo bunting Passerina cyanea rose-breasted grosbeak Pheucticus lucovicianus rufous-sided towhee Pipilo erythrophthalmus scarlet tanager Piranga olivacea snow bunting Plectrophenax nivalis vesper sparrow Pooecetes gramineus common grackle Quiscalus quiscula ovenbird Seirus aurocapillus Louisiana waterthrush Seirus motacilla northern waterthrush Seirus noveboracensis American tree sparrow Spizella arborea clay-colored sparrow Spizella pallida chipping sparrow Spizella passerina field sparrow Spizella pusilla eastern meadowlark Sturnella magna

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Common Name Family Scientific Name white-throated sparrow Zonothichia albicollis merlin Falconidae Falco columbarius peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus American kestrel Falco sparverius American goldfinch Fringillidae Carduelis tristis house finch Carpodacus mexicanus purple finch Carpodacus purpureus common loon Gaviidae Gavia immer barn swallow Hirundinidae Hirundo rustic bank swallow Riparia riparia northern rough-winged swallow Stelgidopteryx seripennis tree swallow Tachycineta bicolor herring gull Laridae Larus argentatus ring-billed gull Larus delawarensis great black-backed gull Larus marinus gray catbird Mimidae Dumatella carolinensis northern mockingbird Mimus polyglottus brown thrasher Toxostoma rufum veery Muscicapidae Catharus fuscescens hermit thrush Catharus guttatus gray cheeked thrush Catharus minimus wood thrush Hylocichla mustelina ruby crowned kinglet Regulus calendula eastern bluebird Sialia sialis American robin Turdus migratorius black-capped chickadee Paridae Parus atricapillus tufted titmouse Parus bicolor boreal chickadee Parus hudsonicus house sparrow Passeridae Passer domesticus double-crested cormorant Phalacrocoracidae Phalacrocorax auritus ruffed grouse* Phasianidae Bonasa umbellus common bobwhite Colinus virginianus wild turkey* Meleagris gallopavo ring-necked pheasant Phasianus colchicus yellow-shafted flicker Picidae Colaptes auratus pileated woodpecker Dryocopus pileatus downy woodpecker Picoides pubescens hairy woodpecker Picoides villosus pied-billed grebe Podicipedidae Podilymbus podiceps spotted sandpiped Scolopacidae Actitis macularis upland sandpiper Bartramia longicauda least sandpiper Calidris minutilla semipalmated sandpiper Calidris pusilla common snipe Gallinago gallinago American woodcock* Scolopax minor lesser yellowlegs Tringa flavipes

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Common Name Family Scientific Name greater yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca solitary sandpiper Tringa solitaria buff breasted sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis red breasted nuthatch Sittidae Sitta canadensis white breasted nuthatch Sitta carolinensis saw-whet owl Strigidae Aegolius acadicus great horned owl Bubo virginianus snowy owl Nyctea scandiaca eastern screech-owl Otus asio barred owl Strix varia European starling Sturnidae Sturnus vulgarus glossy ibis Threskiornithidae Plegadis falcinellus ruby-throated hummingbird Trochilidae Archilochus colubris marsh wren Troglodytidae Cistothorus palustris house wren Troglodytes aedon olive sided flycatcher Tyrannidae Contopus borealis eastern wood-peewee Tyrannidae Contopus virens least flycatcher Empidonax minimus willow flycatcher Empidonax traillii eastern phoebe Sayornis phoebe red-eyed vireo Vireonidae Vireo olivaceus solitary vireo Vireo solitarius MAMMALS coyote* Canidae Canis latrans red fox* Vulpes vuples beaver Castoridae Castor canadensis moose Cervidae Alces alces white-tailed deer* Odolcoileus virginianus red-backed vole Cricetidae Clethrionomys gapperi meadow vole Microtus pennsylvanicus pine vole Microtus pinetorum muskrat Ondatra zibethicus white-footed mouse Peromyscus leucopus gray squirrel* Sciuridae Sciurus carolinensis eastern chipmunk Tamias striatus red squirrel Tamiasciurus hudsonicus short-tailed shrew Soricidae Blarina brevicauda masked shrew Sorex cinereus water shrew Sorex palustris star-nosed mole Talipidae Condylura cristata black bear Ursidae Ursus americanus Big brown bat Vespertilionidae Eptesicus fuscus Red bat Lasiurus borealis hoary bat Lasiurus cinereus Keen’s myotis Myotis keeni little brown bat Myotis lucifugus eastern pipistrelle Pipistrellus subflavus

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Common Name Family Scientific Name woodland jumping mouse Zapodidae Napaeozapus insignis meadow jumping mouse Zapus hudsonius INVERTEBRATES INSECTS small squaretails Caenidae Caenis common net spinners Hydropsychidae Cheumatopsyche Hydropsyche Ceratopsyche casemakers Lepidostomatidae Lepidostoma northern casemakers Limnophilidae Limnophilus Eocosmoecus giant casemakers Phraganeidae Oligostomis longhorned casemakers Leptoceridae Oecetis Triaenodes saddlecase casemakers Glossosomatidae Glossosoma common skimmers Libellulidae Celithamis narrow winged damsel flies Coenagrionidae Amphriagrion predaceous diving beetles Dytiscidae Dytiscus Ilybius Uvarus riffle beetles Elmidae Macronychus Stenelmis toewinged beetles Ptilodactylidae Anchytarus water scavenger beetles Hydrophilidae Helochares whirligig beetles Gyrinidae Gyrinus water measurers Hydrometridae Hydrometra shortlegged striders Velliidae Steinovelia Microvelia pyralid moths Pyralidae Schoenobinae midges Chironomidae blackflies Simulidae craneflies Tipulidae flatheaded mayflies Heptageniidae Stenonema small minnow mayflies Baetidae Cleon spiny crawlers Ephemerellidae Timpanoga Eurylophella pronggills Leptophlebidae Leptophlebia common stoneflies Perlidae Acroneuria rollwinged stoneflies Leuctridae Leuctra roach-like stoneflies Peltoperlidae Tallaperla finger net caddisflies Philopomatidae Chimarra stream darners Aeshnidae Boyeria biddies Cordulegastridae Cordulegaster clubtails Gomphidae Gomphus giant waterbugs Belostomatidae Lethocerus

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Common Name Family Scientific Name backswimmers Notonectidae Notonecta water boatmen Corixidae skimmers Libellulidae Sympetrum bandwings Calopterygidae Calopteryx spreadwings Lestidae Lestes fishflies, dobsonflies Corydalidae Nigronia water striders Gerridae Gerris MOLLUSKS pond snails Lymnaeidae Pseudosuccinea columnella Stagnicola planorbid snails Planorbidae Planorbella trivolvis Planorbella campanulatum Gyraulus Helisoma anceps limpets Ancylidae Laevapexfuscus Ferrissia parallela physid snails Physidae mystery snails Viviparidae Cipangoplaudina chinensis Campeloma decisum hydrobid snails Hydrobiidae fingernail clams Sphaeriidae Musculium pearly mussels Unionidae Elliptio complanata Pyganodon cataracta CRUSTACEANS mystic valley amphipod Gammaridae Cryangonyx aberrans Assellidae * Species managed for sport hunting and fishing

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Appendix A4.6 b. Table of Vernal Pool Species (Oxbow, 2019)

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Table 1. VERNAL POOL DATA • DEVENS RFTA, HOTEL RANGE • APRIL 17, 2019

SPECIES Latin Name WET 1 WET2 WET 4

Spotted Salamander Ambystoma maculatum - - 7(e)

Blue-Spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale** - - -

Red-spotted Newt Notopthalmus viridescens - - -

Wood Frog Rana sylvatica - - 32(e)

Green Frog R. c. melanota - - 2 (juv) Pseudacris Spring Peeper - 1 (juv) - crucifer Gray Treefrog Hyla versicolor - - -

American Toad (Fowler?) Bufo americanus - - -

Fairy Shrimp Eubranchipus vernalis - - -

Clam shrimp Lynceus brachyurus - - -

Isopod Caecidotea communis - - X

Amphipod Hyalella azteca (?) X X X

Caddis Fly larvae Limnephilidae X - -

Caddis Fly Larvae Phryganiidae - - -

Predaceous Beetle Larva Dytiscidae - - -

Crawling Water Beetle Haloplidae - - -

Alderfly larvae Megaloptera - - -

Mosquito larvae Culicidae - - -

Midge larvae Chironomidae - - X

Odonate larvae (?) sp. - - -

Water Mite Hydrachna sp. - - -

Seg. Worm Tubificidae - - -

Seg. Worm Lumbricidae - - -

Leech Hirudinea - - -

Pill Clam Sphaeriidae - X -

Snail Stagnicola sp. - - -

Snail Planorbidae - - -

Flatworm Phagocata sp. - - X

pH 4.8 4.9 6.2 Dimensions - feet 20 x 20 15 x 30 30 x 60’ Max. Depth –(est. mean) inches 14 (<6) 10 (<6) 38 (24)

Oxbow Associates, Inc. 7

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Appendix A4.7 DRFTA Waterfowl Plot Check dated April 22, 2019

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Appendix A4.8 USFWS Field Office Email Correspondence regarding Northern Long- Eared Bat, dated June 17, 2019.

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Richardson, Suzanne F (Suzy) CIV USARMY (USA)

From: Dykstra, Eliese Sent: Monday, June 17, 2019 4:03 PM To: Richardson, Suzanne F (Suzy) CIV USARMY (USA) Subject: [Non-DoD Source] Re: [EXTERNAL] Northern Long Eared Bat Question

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______

Hi Suzy,

Thanks so much for following up about northern long‐eared bat management guidelines. I apologize for not reaching out sooner to follow up after our spring meeting, but I hope I can provide some helpful information now that I'm back from leave. I see that the state provided very thorough recommendations for natural resource management at Fort Devens, so I'll just provide some additional ideas for the northern long‐eared bat that might be helpful:

Bats

The active season for northern long‐eared bats is: April 1 to October 31 The pup season is: June 1 to July 31

Here are some ideas for voluntary conservation measures that USFWS has developed that are intended to reduce the impacts of activities on northern long‐eared bats:

1. Conduct tree removal activities outside of the northern long‐eared bat pup season (June 1 to July 31) and/or the active season (April 1 to October 31). This will minimize impacts to pups at roosts not yet identified.

2. Avoid clearing suitable spring staging and fall swarming habitat within a 5‐mile radius of known or assumed northern long‐eared bat hibernacula during the staging and swarming seasons (April 1 to May 15 and August 15 to November 14, respectively).

3. Manage forests to ensure a continual supply of snags and other suitable maternity roost trees.

4. Conduct prescribed burns outside of the pup season (June 1 to July 31) and/or the active season (April 1 to October 31). Avoid high‐intensity burns (causing tree scorch higher than northern long‐eared bat roosting heights) during the summer maternity season to minimize direct impacts to northern long‐eared bat.

5. Perform any bridge repair, retrofit, maintenance, and/or rehabilitation work outside of the northern long‐eared bat active season (April 1 to October 31) in areas where northern long‐eared bats are known to roost on bridges or where such use is likely.

6. Do not use military smoke and obscurants within forested suitable northern long‐eared bat habitat during the pup season (June 1 to July 31) and/or the active season (April 1 to October 31).

1 7. Minimize use of herbicides and pesticides. If necessary, spot treatment is preferred over aerial application.

8. Evaluate the use of outdoor lighting during the active season and seek to minimize light pollution by angling lights downward or via other light minimization measures.

9. Participate in actions to manage and reduce the impacts of white‐nose syndrome on northern long‐eared bat. Actions needed to investigate and manage white‐nose syndrome are described in a national plan the Service developed in coordination with other state and federal agencies.

Surveys are also an excellent idea if possible to get a better understanding of what bats might be present on site and you can find more information about surveying on this website (the Indiana bat guidelines are also used for northern long‐ eared bat): Indiana Bat Survey Guidelines < Caution‐ https://www.fws.gov/Midwest/endangered/mammals/inba/inbasummersurveyguidance.html > . We are eager to hear what the survey results are if you do end up doing any, so please keep us in the loop!

If/when you need to do section 7 consultation for activities onsite that involve tree removal or prescribed burns or other activities that might impact bats, you may use the Online Northern Long‐eared Bat 4(d) Rule Determination Key on the IPaC < Caution‐https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/ > website. Instructions are here < Caution‐ https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/mammals/nleb/determination_key_instructions_nleb.html > .

Please let me know if you have any questions or want to discuss anything further!

Thanks again, Eliese

On Mon, Jun 17, 2019 at 9:16 AM Richardson, Suzanne F (Suzy) CIV USARMY (USA) > wrote:

Hi Eliese,

I was hoping you could answer a question I have about the Northern Long Eared Bat(NLEB). So at Fort Devens we've been following the management guidelines from a 2015 informal conference between the USFWS and Army Installation Command (attached for reference). That document doesn't have active season dates for Massachusetts for the NLEB so we've just been using the most conservative season dates, 1 April to 20 November, which is for Alabama. So I was hoping to get your input on what the active season was really like for that species here in Massachusetts.

Respectfully,

Suzy Richardson Natural Resource Specialist USAG Fort Devens Directorate of Public Works ‐ Environmental Division [email protected] < Caution‐mailto:[email protected] > 978‐615‐6086 (office) 603‐831‐8322 (cell)

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Eliese Dykstra Fish and Wildlife Biologist U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service New England Field Office 70 Commercial Street, Suite 300 Concord, NH 03301 Phone: 603‐227‐6427 Email: [email protected] < Caution‐mailto:[email protected] >

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