L
SUMMARY OF CURRENT STATE NONPOINT SOURCE CONTROL
PRACTICES FOR FORESTRY
AUGUST, 1993
Prepared by:
Tetra Tech, Inc.
Fairfax, Virginia
Nonpoint Source Control Branch
Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Washington, DC
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
IMs summary of state nonpoint source control practices for forestry was prepared by John Craig, Mary
Ann Parcher and George Townsend of Tetra Tech, Inc., Fairfax, Virginia, and John Cannell of EPA s
Nonpoint Source Control Branch. Tetra Tech's assistance was provided under EPA Contract Number
68-C3-0303 This document was developed in cooperation with the National Association of State
Foresters The efforts and assistance of Terri Bates, Stan Adams, and Bill Obergamo of the National
Association of State Foresters in providing information and State Forester review of this document are
greatly appreciated. Gordon Stuart of the State and Private Forestry Division of the U.S. Forest Service
also provided assistance in the development and preparation of this document.
Comments on this document and requests for additional copies should be addressed to:
John Cannell
Nonpoint Source Control Branch (WH-553)
Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
Contents
Introduction ...................'« *
Alabama 5
Alaska . . 9
Arkansas 15
California :....,.... 19
Connecticut 23
Delaware > -25
Florida - 29
Georgia .-.:........ .-.. . »
Idaho . 37
-Illinois ; 41
Indiana :. 43
Kentucky 45
Louisiana ; ^1
Maine . .... 53
Maryland 59
Massachusetts * . 67
Michigan , 71
Minnesota -. . . 75
Mississippi 79
Missouri .i 83
Montana . 87
Nevada ' , 91
New Hampshire 93
New Jersey . 97
New Mexico . . ; . . . .'. . 99
New York . ' 1°3
North Carolina . 105
Ohio ... HI
Oklahoma v 115
Oregon . '. . . . .119
Pennsylvannia 123
Rhode Island . . . . 127
South Carolina 129
Tennessee 131
Texas 135
Vermont ^ 139
Virginia . . . 143
Washington . . . : 147
West Virginia 157
Wisconsin ........ . . : . . . . .. > 161
Wyoming .-.-. ... 163
Appendix A . A-l
Appendix B B-l
in
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Tables
Number
Page
1 Recommended Diameters for Culverts ....-.' 6
2 Spacing Distances Between Diversion Devices . ., 6
3 Riparian Standards T !!
4 Spacing Guide for Drainage Structures 24
5 Recommended Filter Strip Widths 24
6 Site Sensitivity Classification ..;... 29
7 Maximum Spacing of Drainage Structures 30
8 Streamside Management Zone Widths Based on Regional Differences .... 33
9 Minimum Standing Trees per 1000 Feet 38
10 Minimum Buffer Widths for Chemical Applications 40
11 Drainage Dip Spacing 43
12 Water Break Spacing 44
13 Potential Site Preparation Impacts on Water Quality 47
14 SMZ Widths ,- 48
15 Broad-Based Dip Spacing 54
16 Filter Strip Widths 54
17 Skid Hump Spacing . . . . 55
18 Water Bar Spacing ..55
19 Cross Drainage Culvert Spacing 56
20 Required Buffer Widths 61
21 Required Water Bar Spacing 67
22 Filter Strip Widths 68
23 Recommended Buffer Widths . . 80
24 Recommended Primary and Secondary Filter Strip Widths 84
25 Maximum Distances Between Water Breaks . 92
26 Buffer Strip Widths - - - - 99
27 Recommended Minimum SMZ Widths 106
28 Filter Strip Widths 124
29 Recommended SMZ Widths 133
30 Protective Strip Widths 141
31 Water Bar Intervals 144
32 Recommended SMZ Widths for Various Waters . . . 145
IV
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Current NFS Control Practices,for Forestry
INTRODUCTION
The potential for forestry activities to
contribute to nonpoint source (NFS) pollution
of streams, rivers, lakes, and other water
bodies has been the subject of extensive study
(USEPA 1993). On a national level, recent
survey reports indicate that silvicultural
activities contribute approximately 3 to 9
percent of the total NFS pollution (Neary et al.
1989; USEPA 1992a). Twenty-four states
have identified silviculture as a source
contributing to NFS pollution in their lakes
and rivers (USEPA 1992b). Without adequate
planning and nonpoint source controls, water
quality impacts associated with forestry
activities can occur. These impacts include
sedimentation, nutrient and pesticide
contamination, reduced dissolved oxygen
levels, increases in water temperature, and
changes in the magnitude and duration of
stream flow.
The summaries presented in this document are
intended to provide a synopsis of the Best
. Management Practices (BMPs) currently used
by states to address the NFS impacts on water
quality caused by forestry activities. This
document is intended to provide the reader
with general information on the component
practices contained in existing state programs
for forestry NFS control. The summaries are
descriptive in nature and are not intended to be
reviews or evaluations of the state BMPs for
forestry or state NFS programs. Since no
review or evaluation of state BMP program
comprehensiveness, extent of implementation,
or effectiveness was conducted, inclusion of a
state's BMPs in this document does not
represent or imply Environmental Protection
Agency approval or sufficiency of the practices
or state programs described.
The information in this document is intended
to provide an increased understanding of the
types of forestry activities commonly
addressed in existing state NFS programs and
to serve as a reference for the type and nature
of BMPs included in current state BMP
manuals. For example, the summaries may
provide information on additional practices .
useful to state agencies that are evaluating and
enhancing their NFS programs to meet the
objectives of the Coastal Zone Act
Reauthorization Amendments of 1990 for
management measures to control NFS
pollution.
This document summarizes 41 existing state
BMP manuals or regulations that include
BMPs. Three other BMP manuals are being
developed but were not at a stage suitable for
inclusion in this summary document. The
summaries in this document were developed in
cooperation with the National Association of
State Foresters (NASF) and include
information obtained from NASF surveys of
state forestry programs. Each state summary
was made available for review by the
appropriate state agency, and comments
received were incorporated into the document.
Since some states are engaged in the process
of developing BMPs for forestry or are
.revising their existing programs, lack of
representation of a given state program or
practice in this document does not necessarily
imply that forestry NFS controls are not being
developed or addressed in that state.
Because the summaries do not provide all of
the design criteria and technical information
presented in the source manuals and rules, this
document should not be used for field
implementation of practices or evaluation of
the appropriateness of state practices for a
given activity. If such a level of detail is
required, the reader should obtain the source
documents from the state contacts included in
each summary.
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Many state BMP manuals and rules present a
variety of additional practices not directly
related to the protection of water quality, such
as methods to improve timber production and
procedures for maintaining aesthetics while
harvesting timber. The summaries of NPS
practices in this document do not include a
discussion of these'other aspects of state
programs since they are not directly related to
protecting water quality.
The information in this document is intended
for use by agencies or organizations with
interests in or responsibilities for forestry
activities, NPS pollution control, watershed
protection projects, and similar concerns.
Each summary follows the general outline
presented in the specific BMP manual
produced by a state. Some tables from the
BMP manuals are included where the
Information is particularly valuable to the
summary. In most cases, however, the
summaries make reference to figures and
tables provided in the BMP manuals but do not
include them. As part of each state summary,
a contact person and a list of related
informational materials, such as documents,
brochures and videos available from the state,
are provided.
OVERVIEW
Most of the BMP manuals or state regulations
address the following forestry operations and
management activities:
Preharvest planning
Road construction and maintenance
Timber harvesting
Streamside management zones
Site preparation
Chemical management
Revegetation
Prescribed burning
Drainage structures
Other activities addressed by some states
include operations conducted in forested
wetlands, wildfire control, slash management,
specific sediment control measures, storage
and disposal of hazardous substances or
petroleum products, and livestock exclusion.
The presentation of information provided in
the source documents differs in that some
states provide detailed figures and tables for
BMP design and implementation whereas other
states focus more on the rationale for BMP
use.
An overview of five types of state BMPs is
presented in Appendix A. These five types of
practices are generally considered among the
more important for effectively controlling NPS
pollution from forestry activities. Tables A-l
through A-5 provide an overview of the state
practice components for revegetation, road
surface drainage, skid trails, stream crossings,
and streamside protection.
Revegetation practices are contained in 34
manuals or rules (Table A-l). Generally,
practices address seed mixtures, including
types, rates and dates of application, mulch
and fertilizer. Timing of seeding and seedbed
preparation is also included in a number of
state practices.
In Table A-2, road surface drainage practices
are described. To some degree, all 41
manuals summarized include practices for road
surface drainage. A wide variety of designs
for drainage structures are described including
the use of wing ditches, broad-based dips,
water bars, ditch relief culverts, turnouts,
cross drainage culverts, and roadside ditches.
Surface design components described focus
primarily on crowning and out-sloping roads.
Other practices described are directing
discharges from drainage structures onto
undisturbed forest floor or energy dissipators
and away from streams. Restricting use of
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roads during wet conditions is also
incorporated into some manuals to lessen the
impacts from road use and prevent accelerated
failure of road drainage practices.
Some type of skid trail practice(s) is also
generally incorporated into each of the state
manuals summarized (Table A-3). Proper
layout to avoid steep slopes and uphill skidding
are often described, as are drainage structures
such as waterbars and turnouts. Revegetation
of skid trails is also frequently addressed.
Other practices that are presented by some
states are avoiding, locating skid trails to
concentrate runoff and not skidding in
streamside management areas. Some states
restrict ruts in skid trails to less than 6 inches.
Stream crossings are potentially one of the
more serious sources of sediment to streams.
Table A-4 describes some of the sizing
requirements for culverts and bridges used by
states and the use of inlet and outlet controls to
protect these areas. The practice of installing
stream crossings perpendicular to streamflow
is included in many state manuals. Allowing
for fish passage through stream crossings and
the prompt removal of temporary stream
crossings are also often described. In most
manuals the use of fords is avoided unless
specific site characteristics such as level, solid
bottoms are present.
Protection of riparian areas is discussed in 29
of the state BMP manuals or regulations.
These areas are commonly referred to as
streamside management zones (SMZs), but
they are also called riparian management zones
or areas, filter strips, buffer strips, protective
strips, and watercourse and lake protection
zones. Some states have established a site
sensitivity classification system that is used to
determine the width of SMZs and the
recommended forestry operations within
SMZs. Other states use some minimum width
and restrict logging within the streamside area.
Shading and avoiding temperature impacts are
addressed by a number of states. The
applicability of SMZ requirements including
minimum widths and shading criteria, varies
widely among the state manuals. Relatively
few states apply these areas to intermittent
streams.
Other practices used are preharvest planning
and BMPs for pesticides and other chemicals.
Preharvest planning is discussed by 18 states,
5 states of which require the development of a
preharvest plan. In addition, three other states
require a permit and/or submission of an
erosion and sediment control plan. Seven state
manuals deal exclusively with erosion and
sedimentation control practices.
Twenty-two of the manuals contain BMPs for
the use of pesticides and other chemicals. The
manuals present information on pesticide
characteristics and site factors affecting fate
and transport and describe a range of practices
including integrated pest management;
transportation, storage, mixing, and application
methods; and responding to spills.
While this overview provides an indication of
some of the types of practices described in
state BMP manuals, it also indicates the
variability in specific practice components
between state programs. This variability
makes it extremely difficult to make general
summary statements about the types of
practices used by various states. The matrices
in Appendix A illustrate the range of these
practice components, as well as some of the
similarities between state practices. The
summaries contained in this document provide
additional information related to these and
other practices described in each state's BMP
manual or rules. Appendix B provides
information obtained from an NASF survey
and lists state contacts and additional
technology transfer information that is
available or being developed.
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REFERENCES
Neary, D.G., W.T. Swank, and H. Riekerk.
1989. An Overview of Nonpoint Source
Pollution in the Southern United States. In
Proceedings of the Symposium: Forested
Wetlands of the Southern United States, July
12-14,1988, Orlando, FL. USDA Forest
Service, General Technical Report SE-50,
pp. 1-7.
TJSEPA. 1992a. Managing Nonpoint Source
Pollution, Final Report to Congress on Section
319 of the dean Water Act (1989). U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Office of
Water, Washington, DC. EPA-506/9-90.
USEPA. 1992b. National Water Quality
Inventory: 1990 Report to Congress. U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Office of
Water, Washington, DC. EPA 503/9-92/006.
USEPA. 1993. Water Quality Effects and
Nonpoint Source Control for Forestry: An
Annotated Bibliography. U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Office of Water,
Washington, DC. EPA 841/B-93-005.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
ALABAMA
Reference: Alabama Forestry Commission.
1992. Alabama's Best Management Practices
for Forestry (Draft).
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Streamside Management Zones
2. Stream Crossings
3. ForestRoads
4. Timber Harvesting
5. Reforestation/Stand Management
6. Wetlands
7. Revegetation/Restoration
1. Streamside Management Zones
The Streamside management zone should be
maintained on both sides of all perennial and
intermittent streams and should extend at least
35 feet from a definable bank. Greater widths
are recommended for highly credible soils,
steep banks, and wildlife habitat. The SMZs
must be wide enough to maintain water quality
standards.
Partial cut is the recommended harvesting
method in SMZs along perennial streams.
Fifty percent residual crown cover should be
left. SMZs along intermittent streams can be
harvested using partial cut or regeneration cut.
There is no minimum residual crown cover
requirement; only vegetative cover must
remain. Do not harvest trees from banks,
beds, or steep slopes if it will destabilize the
soil. Any tops or other logging debris
dropped into water must be removed.
However, organic debris in the water prior to
the harvest should not be removed from the
stream.
Mechanical site preparation should not be used
in SMZs. Reforestation should be achieved by
natural regeneration, hand planting, or direct
seeding.
Fertilizer should not be used in the SMZ. If a
herbicide is used, it should be applied directly
to the target pest and not broadcast-sprayed.
Strict adherence, to all label restrictions must
be observed.
2. Stream Crossings
The crossing of streams by roads, skid trails,
or firebreaks should be avoided. When
streams must be crossed, locate the crossings
where the bank will be least disturbed. Install
crossings at right angles to straight sections of
the channel. The banks should have gentle
slopes, and the path through the SMZ should
be straight. Water diversions should direct
upland runoff onto the forest floor to filter out
sediment and other pollutants. Provide for
normal passage of water and aquatic animals
within the channel.
Fords can be used where the streambed is
firm, the banks are low, and the stream is
shallow. Log crossings should not use green
or small-diameter tops, ,limbs, and brush. Do
not use fill dirt to improve the surface of log
crossings. ,
Use adequately sized culverts to reduce road
washouts and water impoundments. Stabilize
fill materials using rip-rap, sand bags,
concrete, mulch, hay bales, or silt fences.
Routinely clean out culverts. Table 1 provides
culvert diameters for various geographic
regions within the state.
Bridges create the least disruption to stream
flow and should be used on watersheds greater
than 200 acres. Banks and fill material must
be stabilized and protected from erosion.
Spans must be installed to permit passage of
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Table 1. Recommended Diameters for Culverts (inches)
Drainage Area (acres)
100
200
Region
Lower Coastal Plain
Upper Coastal Plain
Piedmont
Mountains
12
12
12
18
30
18
30
36
48
30
42
48
60
42
54
2(48)
all expected high flow. Remove all temporary
crossings and stabilize the site. Permanent
crossings must be stabilized and maintained.
3. Forest Roads
Carefully plan the location of all roads. Use
existing roads only if they are acceptably
located and drainage devices function properly.
Avoid locating new roads in SMZs, on eroded
gullies, or on troublesome or sensitive
moisture-laden soils. The design standard
should be at least the minimum for reasonable
safety and consistent with anticipated traffic
volume. Road slopes should be determined by
topography and soil type.
During construction, minimize the amount of
soil exposed. Balance cuts and fills whenever
practical. Do not incorporate stumps, logs, or
slash into the roadbed or fill material.
Stabilize side banks as they are constructed.
On flat roads, crown, out-slope, or in-slope
the surface to minimize water retention.
Install water diversion devices on roads with
gradients, and direct discharge onto
undisturbed forest floor or energy dissipators,
such as rocks, mulch, or woody debris. Table
2 provides a spacing guide for diversion
devices, but natural drainages and soil
erodibility should also be considered when
determining appropriate spacings.
Table 2. Spacing Distance between
Diversion Devices
% Slope
Feet
3
5
10
15
233
180
140
127
Regularly inspect and maintain permanent
roads. Road surfaces should be crowned,
back-sloped, and water-barred as necessary to
minimize erosion of the roadbed. Clean
drainage devices as needed. Seed back slopes
and roadbeds. Prohibit nonessential traffic on
roads with high erosion potential during wet
weather.
4. Timber Harvesting
Harvesting activities should be conducted in a
manner that ensures long-term maintenance of
water quality. Plan the location of temporary
access roads, skid trails, and landings prior to
construction. Avoid locating trails or landings
on springs or in gullies. Logging roads and
landings must be located on firm ground,
outside SMZs, and above the high water mark
of streams. Locate landings uphill of skid
trails to provide the greatest dispersion of
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
water. If landings must be located downhill of
skid trails, minimize erosion by using more
smaller landings with fewer, smaller skid
trails. Ground skidding should be conducted
in a manner that does not disrupt natural
drainage or create excessive soil displacement.
Minimize skidding on steep gradients, but
provide occasional breaks in grade when
skidding on steep slopes can not be avoided.
Upon completion of the harvest, trash should
be disposed of in accordance with applicable
laws. Oils, fluids, and other toxic chemicals
must never be drained into the soil. Landings
and skid trails should be stabilized with
vegetation and/or water diversion devices.
5. Reforestation/Stand Management
Mechanical site preparation should be
conducted in a manner that minimizes erosion,
soil compaction, stream sedimentation, and
deposition of debris into water bodies. Limit
mechanical site preparation to the amount
needed to achieve a well-stocked stand of
desirable trees. Mechanical site preparation
should not be conducted in SMZs or on slopes
exceeding 25 percent.
Drum chopping is a favorable method of
mechanical site preparation for the protection
of soil and water quality. Straight blade
bulldozing is the least desirable method.
Follow the contour when disking, bedding on
slopes greater than 2 percent and constructing
windrows. Avoid overraking the area.
Herbicide applications must follow
manufacturer's label instructions, EPA
guidelines, and state law. Herbicides should
not be aerially or broadcast applied in SMZs.
Pesticides should not be applied directly onto
or allowed to drift or wash into waters bodies.
Do not mix chemicals or clean equipment and
pesticide containers in or near streams and
water bodies.
Design and manage prescribed fire to minimize
adverse environmental effects! Avoid burning
on slopes 25 percent or greater. Where
needed, install appropriate water diversions
along firelines. Vegetate firelines to reduce
erosion.
6. Wetlands
Conversion of forested wetlands to non-
forestry use by permanent major drainage
and/or placement of fill material into wetlands,
as well as immediate or gradual conversion of
wetland vegetation to predominantly non-
wetland species by permanently altering the
surface or subsurface reach, flow, or
circulation of wetland water is subjecfcto Clean
Water Act section 404 Army Corps of
Engineers (COE) permit requirements. All
other "normal" silvicultural activities in
wetlands are exempt from these requirements.
Streamside management zones should be
established and maintained around the
perimeter of all major drainages and open
water bodies.
Forest roads must be constructed and
maintained in a manner that ensures that flow
and circulation patterns and chemical and
biological characteristics of streams and water
bodies are not impaired. Minimize the
number, width, and total length of all roads
and skid trails. Stabilize all road fill during
and after construction to prevent erosion. All
temporary fills should be removed in their
entirety and the area restored to its original -
elevation. ,
Do not harvest timber during periods of
flowing water. When harvesting wet sites, use
special harvesting systems to minimize water
quality hazards and negative site impacts, such
as rutting, puddling, and soil compaction.
Concentrate skidder traffic on a few areas
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laiher than over the entire area. If harvesting
during dry periods, normal guidelines apply.
Reforestation activities, including mechanical
site preparation, must not impair the flow or
circulation within the wetland or reduce the
reach of waters of the United States without a
COE permit. Herbicides bearing the
"wetlands" warning on the label must not be
applied directly to surface waters or to
intertidal areas below the high water mark.
7. Revegetation/Restoration
During site and seedbed preparation, surfaces
should be shaped to allow for drainage and
smoothed t0 permit use of conventional
equipment. Soil tests are recommended to
determine whether agricultural limestone and
fertilizer are needed to help establish
vegetative cover. Lime and fertilizer should
be incorporated into the top 2-4 inches of soil
on slopes less than 6 percent, into the top
2 inches of soil on slopes between 6 and
10 percent, and onto the surface only for
slopes greater than 10 percent. Immediately
after seeding, mulch should be applied to
retain seed, lime, and fertilizer and to maintain
moisture and prevent extreme temperatures on
the son surface.
Actively eroding gully systems should be
rehabilitated by redirecting or eliminating
water flow through the area and then
revegetating the area. Avoid operating in
stabilized gully systems.
State Contact:
DonBurdette
Environmental Forester
Alabama Forestry Commission
(205)240-9378
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Alabama's Best Management
Books Practices for Forestry (1989);
Water Quality Management
Guidelines and BMPs for
Alabama's Wetlands
Brochures Alabama's Best Management
Practices for Forestry (1990)
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ALASKA
Reference: State of Alaska. 1992. Draft
Forest Resources and Practices Regulations.
The following regulations and practices apply
to any operation on state land, other public
land, or private land if all of the following
criteria are met:
(1) the operation is on forest land as defined
by AS 41.17.950;
(2) the operation involves any of the following
activities:
(a) harvesting, including felling, bucking,
yarding, decking, hauling, log dumping,
log transfer, log rafting;
(b) road construction or reconstruction,
material source development, and
maintenance of an existing road or
bridge;
(c) site preparation;
(d) precommercial thinning;
(e) slash treatment; or
(f) any other activity leading to, or
connected with, commercial timber
harvest;
(3) a commercial operation that intersects,
encompasses, or borders on surface waters
or a riparian area or that, for a single
landowner or operator, equals or exceeds
in the aggregate the following acreage:
(a) 10 acres in Region I;
(b) 40 acres in Region H;
(c) 40 acres in Region ffl for landowners
who own more than 160 acres (if a
landowner has 160 acres or less, then
an operation on any of that 160 acres
that is not a commercial forest
operation).
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Notification and Plan of Operation
2. Riparian Standards
3. Road Location, Construction, and
Maintenance
4. Timber Harvesting
5. Reforestation and Site Preparation
6. Miscellaneous Provisions
1. Notification and Plan of Operation
Before beginning an operation on forest land,
the operator must file a detailed plan of
operations that must include the following
information:
(1) name, address, and approving signature of
the forest landowner, timber owner, and
operator;
(2) a 1:63,360 scale USGS quadrangle map
showing the proposed area of operation
and suitable for duplication on 8!6- by 11-
inch paper;
(3) four copies of a map at a scale providing
the most detail available, showing the sites
of the proposed activities, such as unit
boundaries;
(4) the expected dates to begin and complete
operations;
(5) the following surface waters information:
(a) the location and, if applicable, the
classification of known surface waters
that abut or are within the harvest units;
(b) the approximate location of proposed
stream crossings;
(c) the approximate location of stream
crossings requiring approval from the
Department of Fish and Game; and
(d) the approximate location of surface
waters for which the operator requests
the Department of Fish and Game to
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
determine or verify the presence of fish,
as determined by a field inspection;
(6) the boundaries of cutting units, harvest
techniques (clearcut, etc.), and, where
known, the yarding techniques and
location of landings;
(7) the following road information:
(a) the approximate location of a mainline
or spur road and whether the road is
intended to be permanent or temporary;
(b) any road to be closed during the term of
the plan of operation;
(c) any known road to be located in a
riparian area for use as other than a
water crossing;
(8) the approximate location of a material site;
(9) the following information for areas that are
in cutting units or are traversed by roads:
(a) known unstable or slide-prone slopes;
(b) slopes greater than 67 percent; and
(c)- site-specific measures designed to
prevent slope instability due to road
construction in areas identified under
(9a) or (9b) of this paragraph;
(10) reforestation and site preparation
methods;
(11) description and anticipated location of
temporary housing, fuel storage sites,
and associated wastewater and solid
waste disposal facilities;
(12) location of log transfer and sort yard
facilities;
(13) measures for control of insect infestation
or disease outbreak (where applicable);
(14) requests for variation from riparian
standards; and
(15) information regarding the location and
estimated timing of the stream crossing
activity when a short-term water quality
variance for construction of a stream
crossing is required.
An operator may provide the local office with
a voluntary plan of operations describing long-
term plans for timber harvesting.
2. Riparian Standards
Table 3 presents the riparian standards for
various land categories as set forth in
AS 41.17.116, AS 41.17,118, and
AS 41.17.119. The following operations are
allowed within the riparian area:
road building when no feasible alternative
exists;
water body crossing;
felling and removal of hazardous trees along
roadways as required by state and federal
law;
locating material sites in braided, glacial
floodplains;
removal of a portion of a downed tree that
lies greater than 25 feet from the
streambank;
installation of blocks, or similar devices, on
a tree required for retention under this
chapter if the device is installed to minimize
damage to the tree;
use of trees required for retention under this
chapter for use as lift trees or tail holds;
hanging of rigging through the riparian area
consistent with operator safety requirements
and to have a clear line of sight and
working area for the rigging; and
in the case of buffer'strips for lands
identified in AS 41.17.118 and .119 only,
yarding corridors and other logging systems
that do not cause a significant adverse
impact to the riparian habitat.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
Table3. Riparian Standards
Land Type
Private land
Region!
Private land
Regions n
and IH
State land
Water Body Classification
ii , "
Type A
TypeB
TypeC
An anadromous or high-value
resident fish water body
An anadromous or high-value
resident fish water body
(North of Alaska Range)
An anadromous or high-value
resident fish water body
(South of Alaska Range)
Other public
land
An anadromous or high-value
resident fish water body
(North of Alaska Range)
An anadromous or high-value
resident fish water body
(South of Alaska Range)
Timber Harvesting Restrictions
No harvesting within 66 ft of water body
Operations within 100 ft of the stream or to
the break of the slope, whichever area is
smaller, must comply with slope stability
standards
Operations within 50 ft of the stream or to
the break of the slope, whichever area is
smaller, must comply with slope stability
standards
Operations within 100 ft of water body must
be sited and designed primarily to protect
fish habitat and water quality
No harvesting within 100 ft immediately
adjacent to water body, unless the division
determines that adequate protection remains
for the fish habitat
No harvesting within 100 ft immediately
adjacent to water body
Harvesting may occur between 100 and 300
feet from the water body, but must be
consistent with the maintenance of important
fish and wildlife habitat
No harvesting within 100 ft immediately
adjacent to water body
No harvesting within 100 ft immediately
adjacent to water body, unless the
commissioner determines that adequate
protection remains for, fish habitat
3. Road Location, Construction, and
Maintenance
Minimize the amount of road construction by
using existing roads when feasible and by
avoiding isolated patches of timber that would
require additional road construction. Locate
roads to fit topography, and avoid locating
roads on marshes, nonforested muskegs,
recently abandoned stream channels, slopes
greater man 67 percent, unstable slopes, slide-
prone areas, and deep gullies where fine-
textured soils such as clay or ash soils exist.
Roads should be located outside the riparian
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
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area except for waterbody crossings or where
no feasible alternative exists. A stream
crossing or a road in any riparian area must be
designed and located to minimize significant
adverse effects on fish habitat and water
quality. Minimize the number of stream
crossings, and cross streams at right angles.
"When constructing forest roads, use end-
Jhauling and full-bench construction techniques
if mass wasting from overloading on an
xinstable slope or erosion of sidecast material is
likely to occur and cause degradation of
surface or standing water quality. Treat
unstable soils with effective and appropriate
erosion control measures, such as-grass
seeding, erosion control mats, or end-hauling
materials. Construction on slopes greater than
67 percent, on an unstable slope, or in a slide-
prone area require the following additional
measures:
do not bury significant amounts of organic
debris and slash or log chunks more than 5
cubic feet in volume in the load-bearing
portion of the road;
balance cuts and fills to the greatest extent
possible, but do not use excavated material
as fill if it is unstable, fine textured, or
prone to mass wasting; and
* do not conduct excavation or blasting
activities under saturated soil conditions.
Spoil, waste, and overburden generated during
road construction should be deposited on an
upland site and stabilized by effective erosion
control measures. Winter roads must be
constructed to avoid degradation of water
quality. The roadbed should be protected from
rutting, ground disturbance, or thermal
erosion. Avoid soil cuts or fills in thawed,
unstable permafrost terrain.
Minimize erosion of roadbed, cut bank, and
fill slopes through the use of cross drains,
ditches, relief culverts, bridges, water bars,
diversion ditches, or other such structures
demonstrated to be effective. These drainage
structures must; be installed at natural
drainages. The table provided for minimum
spacing is specified by region and slope.
Discharge from drainage structures should be
directed away from unstable soils and onto
vegetated areas.
A temporary bridge or culvert and the adjacent
roadway must be constructed to withstand the
25-year flood. A permanent bridge or culvert
and the adjacent roadway must be constructed
to withstand the 50-year flood. Bridges must
be installed to provide fish passage and
minimize disturbance to the bed and banks of a
stream. Protect bridge approaches from
erosion by using planted or seeded ground
cover, bulkheads, rock rip-rap, retaining walls,
or other equally effective means. Special
restrictions apply to bridge construction and
repair on anadromous fish waters. Culverts
smaller than 12 inches in diameter may not be
installed. A culvert must discharge onto
material that will not easily erode. With prior
notification to the division, properly prepared
and maintained fords may be used during a
period of low flow. Fords should cross
perpendicular to the stream flow, and the
approaches must be properly ballasted or
otherwise stabilized to avoid sedimentation.
On active roads, the surface must be
maintained as necessary to minimize erosion of
the surface and the subgrade, and all culverts,
flumes, and ditches must be kept functional.
As soon as feasible following the termination
of active use, ditches and drainage structures
must be maintained as necessary to ensure
water flow and fish passage, and the road
surface must be crowned, out-sloped, water
barred, or otherwise left in a condition not
conducive to erosion. Permanently closed
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
roads should have bridges, culverts, and fills
removed. In areas accessible to highway
vehicles, the road should be blocked so that
four-wheel vehicles cannot pass the point of
closure.
4. Timber Harvesting
Landing location, except when frozen, must
avoid surface and standing waters and
minimize use of marshes and nonforested
muskegs. Landings must be located,
constructed, and operated to prevent logs,
vegetative debris, and sediment from entering
surface and standing waters. Landing location
should provide for a logging layout that will
reduce the overall adverse effects of the
operation. Minimize sidecast or fill, and
construct landings no larger than necessary for
safe operation of equipment. Where slopes are
greater than 67 percent, unstable, or in a slide-
prone area, fill material used in the
construction of landings must be free of loose
stumps and excessive accumulations of slash
and must be mechanically compacted in layers
where necessary to prevent soil erosion and
mass wasting. Landings must be sloped, water
barred, ditched, or otherwise constructed and
maintained to minimize the accumulation of
water on the landing.
Trees should be felled in a direction that
minimizes damage to trees retained in partial
cuts. Where feasible, trees must not be felled
into riparian timber retention areas or surface
waters. Equipment must not be operated in
surface waters without prior notice to the
division. If trees are felled into fish-bearing
waters, limbs and other small debris must be
removed within 48 hours. This provision may
be waived if the Department of Fish and Game
deems the material deposited in the water body
will benefit fish resources. If trees are felled
into non-fish-bearing surface or standing
waters, the trees and debris must be removed
at the earliest feasible time to avoid
degradation of water quality.
When cable yarding, logs must be fully
suspended above or yarded away from surface
waters. Cross stream yarding must be used
when full suspension or split yarding would
likely cause greater degradation of surface
water quality or impact fish habitat. Cable
yarding across surface waters must be
conducted in a manner that avoids degrading
water quality and minimizes damage to stream
channels, stream banks, retained trees,
understory vegetation, stumps, and root
systems. The direction of log movement
between stream banks must be as close to right
angles to the stream as feasible. No timber
may be yarded across anadromous or high-
value resident fish waters without prior notice
to the division. An operator should use
maximum available deflection and uphill
yarding techniques. Where downhill yarding
is used, lift the leading end of the log by
deflection and minimize downhill movement of
slash and soils. Yarding across marshes and
nonforested muskegs must be conducted in a
manner that minimizes damage to vegetative
cover.
Skidding of timber or operation of equipment
in anadromous fish waters requires the written
approval of the Department of Fish and Game.
Operations in other surface waters, marshes,
or nonforested muskegs requires prior notice
to the division. Equipment may be operated
on frozen surface waters, marshes, or non-
forested muskegs without prior notice to the
division. An operator may not use a tracked
skidder, a wheeled skidder, or a logging
shovel during saturated soil conditions.
During winter logging, substantial
concentrations of debris that enter surface
waters or that may enter surface waters from
winter trails must be removed before thaw.
Locate skid trails to minimize degradation of
surface water quality, and keep trails to
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
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Tnlnmmm feasible width. Out-slope trails
where feasible, and use water bars or other
appropriate techniques to prevent or minimize
sedimentation. Skidding on slopes is restricted
tvhere degradation of surface or standing water
is likely to occur. Within the riparian area the
number of skidding routes must be limited;
skidding must minimize damage to retained
trees, stumps, root systems, understory
vegetation, and soils; and one-end suspension
of logs must be achieved.
Unstable slash concentrations around landings
must be disposed of, or dispersed, to prevent
entry into surface waters. Concentrations of
slash may be reduced by scattering, piling, or
windrowing, mechanized chipping,
compacting, burying, controlled burning, or
other method allowed by the division.
Controlled burning requires approval from the
Department of Environmental Conservation
and may require a permit from the division.
Burns must occur under weather conditions
that minimize the chance of air quality
degradation and fire escape. Riparian areas
must be protected from fire during burns.
5. Reforestation and Site Preparation
Adequate reforestation must be achieved within
5 years after harvest in Region I and 7 years
after harvest in Regions n and HI. The
reforestation plan must include the preferred
target species, regeneration techniques, and
site preparation methods. Minimum stocking
standards are listed for the various regions. A
forest landowner in Regions n and m who
amends to rely on natural regeneration for
reforestation must ensure a seed source of
well-formed, vigorous trees of commercial tree
species, and the seed source must be capable
of distributing an adequate amount of seed
throughout the harvest area to meet the
reforestation requirements.
Site preparation must incorporate reasonable
measures to protect residual trees, minimize
degradation of surface water quality or harm to
fish habitat, and minimize the use of heavy
equipment where soil compaction or impacts to
drainage will cause degradation of site
productivity.
6. Miscellaneous Provisions
Petroleum products and waste material, such
as crankcase oil, fuel, grease, filters, hydraulic
fluid and their containers; machine parts; wire
rope; oil-contaminated soils; scrap culverts; or
similar scrap wastes resulting from operations
must be disposed of in a manner that does not
violate water quality standards.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
ARKANSAS
Reference: Arkansas Forestry Commission.
Best Management Practices Guidelines for
Silviculture.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Planning
2. Road Construction and Maintenance
3. Harvesting
4, Mechanical Site Preparation
5. Silvicultural Chemicals
6. Streamside Management Zones
1. Planning
Planning of harvest operations should
maximize efficiency and economy of motion,
preserve soil integrity, and protect water
quality. Topographic maps, aerial
photographs, and soil surveys should be used
in combination with local knowledge or field
reconnaissance to ascertain site conditions.
Operations should be scheduled to avoid
seasonal water problems and to minimize
adverse impact on soils and water quality.
Design the harvest setting boundaries to use
natural drainage channels, topographic terrain,
roads, and forest type changes. The size of
Hie setting should be consistent with
minimizing soil movement and protecting
water quality. The setting layout should avoid
narrow, unmanageable strips of timber
susceptible to windthrow. Plan skidding
design to avoid natural drainages and to
balance skidding distances against road
densities.
2. Road Construction and Maintenance
Locate roads along the contour, away from
streams, and where topography permits, along
the crest of long ridges. Avoid locating roads
in narrow canyons, marshes, wet meadows,
natural drainage channels, and streamside _
management zones. Use the minimum design
standard necessary to support anticipated
traffic volume with the least environmental
impact. Minimize the number of stream
crossings, and where necessary, plan the
crossing perpendicular to the main channel.
During construction, plan and conduct work to
minimize erosion. Right-of-way timber should
be removed or decked outside borrow pits.
Minimize the need for borrow pits by
balancing cuts and fills to the greatest extent
possible. Design cut-and-fill slopes to the
normal .angle of repose or less. Place sidecast
or fill material above the ordinary high water
mark of any stream, except where necessary at
stabilized stream crossings. Seed and mulch_
areas with high erosion potential.
Design roads to drain naturally by crowning,
ditches, culverts, and/or out-sloping. Use
diversion or wing ditches to carry road
drainage water away from the road and onto .
undisturbed forest floor. Install ditches,
culverts, cross drains, and wing ditches at low
points in the road gradient. Drainage
structures should not discharge onto erodible
material unless erosion protection measures are
employed. Adequately size culverts to
accommodate anticipated water flow.
Construct stream crossings to minimize
disturbance to banks and existing channels
and, during periods of low flow, to minimize
the threat of erosion. Machine activity in the
streambed should be avoided unless deemed
absolutely necessary. Use a bridge or culvert
if a ford would result in rutting or siltation.
Bridges should not constrict clearly defined
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
&EPA
stream channels. Permanent structures should
be designed and constructed to accommodate
the normal flood level. Protect low-water
bridges, fills, and earth embankments from
erosion by high water.
Maintain roads by crowning or out-sloping the
road surface, revegetating or stabilizing
exposed soil areas, and removing blockages or
obstructions from culverts and ditches. Roads
not currently in use should be periodically
inspected to ensure their integrity.
3. Harvesting
Locate landings to minimize adverse impacts
of skidding on the natural drainage pattern.
The landings should be located on firm ground
outside SMZs and should use the topography
to provide natural drainage of the landing and
disperse runoff onto the forest floor. Landings
located on navigable waters for barge loading
and transportation of logs must comply with
Corps of Engineers regulations.
Locate skid trails to use the topography and
maintain natural drainage patterns. Skid trails
should not run parallel to a stream where the
trail would be below the average high water
mark of the stream. Stream channels should
not be used as skid trails. Where stream
crossings cannot be avoided, use temporary
culverts, portable bridges, logs and natural
fords with firm bottoms, stable banks, and
fairly level approaches. Remove all temporary
crossings upon completion of use. Skid trails
on slopes should have occasional breaks in
grade to facilitate dispersal of water.
Fell trees parallel to the skidding direction
with butts toward the landing. When near
streams, directionally fell trees away from the
channel to minimize debris entering the
watercourse. Provide shading, soil
stabilization, and water filtering effects of
vegetation along streams by one or more of the
following methods:
leave trees, shrubs, grasses, rocks, and
naturally felled timber wherever they afford
shade over a stream or maintain the
integrity of soil near such a stream;
harvest mature timber from the SMZ in
such a way that shading and filtering effects
are not destroyed; and
where it is difficult to leave adequate
vegetation within the SMZ to afford stream
protection, reestablish cover as soon as
possible after harvesting is completed.
When cable yarding across a stream cannot be
avoided, streamside vegetation should be left
undisturbed to the maximum extent possible.
Remove logging debris accidentally deposited
in waterways. Do not deposit debris from
landings into drainages or streams. Mulch and
seed erosion-prone areas to help reestablish
permanent vegetation. Logging litter, such as
oil cans, grease containers, crankcase oil
filters, old tires, broken cable, paper, and
other trash, must be kept out of streams and
should be disposed of in a designated legal
landfill.
4. Mechanical Site Preparation
Perform mechanical site preparation to
minimize disturbance of areas near streams or
other water bodies. Train equipment operators
to minimize soil disturbance, compaction, and
displacement. Minimize disturbance in SMZs.
Locate windrows along the contour and out of
SMZs, and minimize placement of soil in
windrows. Do not disk on steep slopes or
slopes with thin or highly credible soils.
Provide water outlets on bedded or furrowed
areas at locations that will minimize movement
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
of soil. When ripping, follow the approximate
contours.
5. Silvicultural Chemicals
Use chemicals in accordance with
manufacturer's label instructions, EPA
registration requirements, and all state and
federal requirements for use, registration, and
application.
Maintain equipment used for transportation,
storage, mixing, or application to prevent
leakage of chemicals. When chemicals are
mixed with water, provide an air gap or
reservoir between the water source and the
mixing tank, and use uncontaminated pumps,
hoses, and screens. Mix chemicals and clean
tanks only where possible spills would not
enter water bodies.
Carefully plan aerial and ground applications
to avoid direct and indirect entry of chemicals
into surface waters. Do not apply chemicals
where stream contamination is likely to occur.
Do not apply chemicals when the likelihood of
aerial drift exists. For aerial applications, use
a bucket or spray device capable of immediate
shutoff. When performing ground applications
to treat seedlings, incorporate pesticides into
the soil and not on the ground surface. In
areas adjacent to open water, use injection or
stump treatment herbicide methods.
Clean equipment and containers where
contamination of water bodies is not likely to
occur. Rinse containers and mixing apparatus
at least three times and spray the rinse water
over the application area. Label, remove, and
dispose of containers in accordance with
applicable local, state, and federal laws.
Maintain a record of application in accordance
with state and federal laws and retain it for at
least 2 years. If any hazardous chemical is
accidentally spilled, contain and neutralize the
chemical and notify the Department of
Pollution Control and Ecology.
6. Streamside Management Zones
SMZs must be wide enough to protect water
quality and stream characteristics. Design
SMZs on a case-by-case basis considering soil
type, slope, vegetative cover, flow, and stream
classification. Restrict activities that would
cause pollution or erosion. Locate roads, skid
trails, and landings outside SMZs. Harvest
mature timber in a manner that will not
destroy the filtering effects of the zone.
State Contact:
Randall L. Leister
Arkansas Forestry Commission
(501) 664-2531 ext. 34
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ A Guide to Better Forestry
Books Practices and Water Quality;
A Guide to Better Logging and
Better Water Quality
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vvEPA
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
CALIFORNIA
References: California Department of Forestry
and Fire Protection. 1991. California Forest
Practice Rules, Subchapter 4: Coast Forest
District Rules', and the Z'berg-Nejedly Forest
Practice Act of 1973
The Z'berg-Nejedly Forest Practice Act of
1973 states that no person may conduct timber
operations unless a timber harvesting plan
prepared by a registered professional forester
has been submitted to the department. The
1991 California Forest Practice Rules,
Subchapter 4: Coast Forest District Rules,
require that all harvest plans be approved by
the Director of Forestry prior to the
commencement of harvesting operations. The
plan must be applicable to a specific piece of
property or properties and must be based on
such characteristics of the property as
vegetation type, soil stability, topography,
geology, climate, and stream characteristics.
The Z'berg-Nejedly Forest Practice Act
stipulates that the plan must include, at a
minimum, all of the following information:
(1) the name and address of the timber owner;
(2) the name and address of the timber
operator;
(3) a description of the land on which the
work is proposed, including a USGS
; quadrangle map or equivalent indicating
the location of all streams, the location of
all proposed and existing logging truck
roads, and the boundaries of all Site I
classification timberlands to be stocked;
(4) a description of the Silvicultural methods
to be applied, including the type of
logging equipment to be used;
(5) an outline of the methods to be used to
avoid accelerated erosion from timber
operations to be conducted within
proximity of a stream;
(6) special provisions, if any, to protect any
unique area within the area of the timber
operation;
(7) the expected dates of commencement and
completion of timber operations;
(8) a certification by the registered
professional forester preparing the plan
that he/she or a designee has personally
inspected the plan area; and
(9) any Bother information the board provides
by regulation to meet its rules and
standards of this chapter.
The 1991 California Forest Practice Rules
require an extensive amount of additional
information to be included in the plan.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Harvesting Practices and Erosion
Control
2. Site Preparation
3. Watercourse and Lake Protection
4. Logging Roads and Landings
5. Coastal Commission Special Treatment
Areas
6. Prescribed Burning
7. Cumulative Impacts Assessment
1. Harvesting Practices and Erosion
Control
All plans must show the estimated erosion
hazard rating of the plan area. Erosion control
structures must be installed on all constructed
skid trails and tractor roads prior to the end of
the day if the U.S. Weather Service forecast is
a "chance" (30 percent or more) of rain before
the next day, and prior to weekend or other
shutdown periods. Water breaks must be
constructed for tractor roads, roads, layouts,
and landings that do not have permanent and
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
adequate drainage facilities or structures. The
maximum distance between water breaks is
specified according to slope and estimated
erosion hazard rating. Discharges should flow
onto vegetative cover, duff, slash, rocks, or
less credible material. Water breaks and other
erosion controls must be maintained (luring
timber operations and for a period extending
as much as 3 years after work completion.
Trees must be felled to lead in a direction
away from watercourses and lakes. Slash and
debris from timber harvesting operations may
not be placed in locations where they could be
discharged into a Class I or Class H
watercourse or a lake.
Tractors or other heavy equipment must not be
operated in unstable areas; on any slopes
greater than 65 percent; on slopes greater than
50 percent that lead without flattening to a
Class I or Class n watercourse or a lake; or in
areas having average slopes over 50 percent,
where the erosion hazard rating is high.
Machinery equipped with a blade may not
operate on skid roads or slopes that are so
steep as to require the use of the blade for
braking. Tractor yarding or the use of tractors
for constructing layouts, firebreaks, or roads
may be done only during dry periods where
soils are not saturated.
Cable yarding must be conducted in such a
manner that the installation and use of cable
lines will not incur unreasonable damage to the
residual trees. Tractors must not be used in
areas designated for cable yarding except to
pull trees away from streams, to yard logs in
areas where deflection is low, or where swing i
yarding is advantageous.
Equipment used in timber operations must not
be serviced in locations that will allow grease,
oil, or fuel to pass into lakes or watercourses.
2. Site Preparation
When site preparation will occur on the
logging area; a site preparation addendum will
be incorporated into the harvest plan. Heavy
equipment must not be used for site
preparation under saturated soil conditions.
Undisturbed areas or energy dissipators must
be used to control and disperse concentrated
runoff from roads, landings, tractor roads,
firebreaks, and erosion control facilities where
it flows into the site preparation areas.
3. Watercourse and Lake Protection
All lakes or watercourses that contain or
conduct Class I, n, ffl, or IV waters must be
designated on the harvest plan map and the
width of the watercourse and lake protection
zone (WLPZ) determined by slope and water
class. Heavy equipment must not be used in
timber falling, yarding, site preparation, or
hauling operations within the WLPZ. The
amount of vegetation removal within the
WLPZ is determined by a registered
professional forester during an on-site
inspection. Soil stabilization measures may
include, but are not limited to, mulching, rip-
rapping, grass seeding, or the use of chemical
soil stabilizers. The timber operator must not
discharge soil, silt, bark, slash, sawdust,
petroleum, or other organic or earthen material
from any logging, construction, or associated
activity into any stream or lake in quantities
deleterious to fish, wildlife, or other beneficial
uses of water.
4. Logging Roads and Landings
Roads and landings must be planned so that an
adequate number of drainage facilities and
structures are installed to minimize erosion on
roadbeds, landing surfaces, sidecast, and fills.
Road and landing sites will be planned to
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
minimize disturbance to logging area. The
following factors are to be considered:
use existing roads whenever feasible;
« use systematic road layout patterns to
minimize total mileage;
avoid routes near watercourses, marshes,
wet meadows, or unstable areas;
minimize number of water crossings;
locate roads on natural benches, flatter
slopes, and areas of stable soils;
plan to fit the topography; and
use logging systems that will reduce
excavation or placement of fills on unstable
areas.
No road or landing construction may occur '
under saturated soil conditions. Landings must
be the minimum in width, size, and number
consistent with the yarding and loading system
to be used, and must be no greater than one-
half acre. Waste organic material must not be
buried in the landing fill. Road construction
activities in the WLPZ are prohibited, except
for stream crossings. Watercourse crossing
drainage structures on logging roads must be
planned, constructed, and maintained or
removed according to the following standards:
the number of crossings must be kept to a
feasible minimum;
the location of all new permanent and
temporary structures must be shown on the
harvest plan map, and the minimum
diameter of permanent culverts must be
specified;
the location of structures on watercourses
that support fish must allow for unrestricted
passage of fish;
fills must be excavated to form a channel
that is as close as feasible to the natural
watercourse grade and orientation and is
wider than the natural channel; and
excavated material and any resulting cut
bank must be sloped back from the channel
and stabilized to prevent slumping and to
minimize soil erosion.
Install drainage structures so as to minimize
erosion, to ensure proper functioning, and to
maintain or restore the natural drainage.
Drainage structures must be of sufficient size,
number, and location to carry runoff water off
of roadbeds, landings, and fill slopes. Do not
direct discharge from drainage structures onto
erodible material unless energy dissipators are
used. Specifications for water break spacing,
installation, and maintenance are provided in
the practice rules.
Roads and landings must be maintained in a
manner that minimizes concentration of runoff,
soil erosion, and slope instability.
Abandonment of roads, watercourse crossings,
and landings must be planned and conducted in
a manner that provides for permanent
maintenance-free drainage to soil resources;
minimizes concentration of runoff, soil
erosion, and slope instability; prevents
unnecessary damage to soil resources;
promotes regeneration; and protects the quality
and beneficial uses of water.
5. Coastal Commission Special Treatment
Areas
The Coastal Commission Special Treatment
Area is defined as an identifiable and
geographically bounded forest area designated
within the Coastal Zone that constitutes a
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
significant wildlife and/or plant habitat area,
area of special scenic significance, and any
land where timber operations could adversely
affect public recreation areas or the biological
productivity of any wetland, estuary, or stream
especially valuable because of its role in a
coastal ecosystem. Regulations provide for
larger watercourse protection zones and higher
stocking standards and limit reentry for 10
years.
6. Prescribed Burning
All slash created by road construction or
timber operations within the fire protection
zone must be treated by piling and burning,
chipping, removal from the zone, or burying.
This treatment must be completed by June 1 of
the year following creation of the slash. Slash
piles and concentrations must be sufficiently
free of earth and other noncombustible
material for effective burning. Concentrations
of slash outside the fire protection zone may
be isolated and burned after the first wet fall
or winter weather, and burning should be
completed by April 1 of the following year.
The use of broadcast burning is restricted in
some districts. Use of broadcast burning
prescription in the WLPZ for Class I and
Class II waters is prohibited. Broadcast
burning must not fully consume the larger
organic debris, which retains soil on slopes
and stabilizes watercourse banks.
7. Cumulative Impacts Assessment
Regulations provide for assessing cumulative
impacts of past, present, and foreseeable
probable future projects on the watershed, soil
productivity, and biological (wildlife)
resources. All significant impacts must be
mitigated.
State Contact:
Ross Johnson
Dept. of Forestry
(916)653-4995
or
Pete Cafferata
Dept. of Forestry
(916) 653-9455
Other Available State Information ,
Manuals/ California Forest Practice
Books Rules - updated annually
Brochures An extensive selection of
publications that address
various forestry issues and
regulations are available from
the California Department of
Forestry and Fire Protection at
(916)653-7211
22
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v>EPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
CONNECTICUT
Reference: Connecticut Resource'Conservation
and Development Forestry Committee. 1990.
Timber Harvesting and Water Quality in
Connecticut: A Practical Guide for Protecting
Water Quality While Harvesting Forest
Products.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Site Planning Considerations
2. Truck Roads, Skid Roads/Trails
and Landings
3, Drainage Structures
4. Sediment Control Measures
5. Post-Harvesting Considerations
1. Site Planning Considerations
Prepare a plan prior to the start of each
harvesting operation. Plan the location using
topographic maps, aerial photos, USDA soil
survey maps, and property maps. Avoid steep
slopes, springs, wetlands, poor drainage areas,
rock outcrops, and other obstacles. Plan
landings and roads so that they can be used in
subsequent harvests. Roads should generally
not exceed a 10 percent slope, except for short
sections to avoid obstacles, and if possible
should be located on the,high side of steep or
wet areas. Minimize the number of stream
crossings and, if possible, locate the crossings
in flat areas. If the value of the timber in a
section of the harvest site would be less than
the cost of environmentally safe harvesting, the
section should not be harvested.
2. Truck Roads, Skid Roads/Trails and
Landings
Road drainage is extremely important in
minimizing erosion and sedimentation. To
minimize water accumulation on the road
surface, the road may be in-sloped, out-sloped,
or crowned. Divert water off the road surface
with the use of ditch-relief culverts and/or
broad-based dips. Broad-based dips should be
used only on roads with gradients of
10 percent or less.
When constructing truck roads, use bridges or
culverts to cross streams. Construct stream
crossings where the erosion hazard can be
minimized. The stream channel should be
straight, and the banks should have a gentle
gradient. Fords may be used only where the
stream bottom is ledge, stone, gravel, or sand.
Use a diversion or interceptor ditch above
landings to minimize the amount of up-slope
water reaching the landing areas. Properly
dispose of all oil cans, old lubricants and
filters, crankcase drainings, and other potential
pollutants. Do not use streambeds as skid
trails.
3. Drainage Structures
Drainage structures should be used to divert
runoff from roads, skid trails, and landings.
The choice of culvert type depends on
conditions and the planned use of the road.
Pipe culverts are recommended for permanent
roads because of their long life and
effectiveness. They should be used where
adequate fill can be placed over the culvert,
and open-top culverts should be used when
adequate fill or machinery is not available to
properly install pipe culverts. Locate drainage
structures according to road grade as specified
in Table 4.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
Table 4. Spacing Guide for Drainage Structures (feet)
Road Grade (%) Waterbars
1 400
2 250
5 135
10 80
15 60
20 45
25 40
30 35
40 30
The discharge area should be protected with
stone, grass sod, logs, or tree tops. Natural
litter may be adequate if the terrain is not too
steep.
4. Sediment Control Measures
Use baled hay or silt fence/filter fabric as
sedimentation barriers. Filter strips should be
tised between watercourses and heavily
disturbed areas, such as roads and landings.
Minimize soil disturbance in filter strips.
Table 5 contains recommended widths of filter
strips, but good judgment and the details of the
site should be used for a final decision.
Pipe Culverts
450
300
200
140
130
120
65
60
50
Dips, Turn-ups
450
300
200
140
130
120
Table 5. Recommended Filter Strip
Widths
TT AUU1A
Land Slope
(percent)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Width of Filter
Strip
(feet)
25
45
65
85
105
125
145
165
5. Post-Harvesting Considerations
Abandoned skid trails, roads, and landings
should be stabilized upon completion of
harvesting operations, and access should be
restricted. Culverts, bridges, or other
temporary structures placed in water courses
should be removed. Grade major skid trails.
Logging debris and trash should be removed
from the landing, and the landing surface
should be graded so that water does not flow
onto the access road. Seed landings,
approaches to stream crossings, and steep skid
trail sections.
24
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
DELAWARE
Reference: Delaware Forestry Association.
Forestry Best Management Practices for
Delaware.
The BMPs presented in this manual are
advocated by the Forestry Section of the
Department of Agriculture but have not been
officially adopted by the Department of
Natural Resources and Environmental Control.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Pre-Harvest Planning
2. Truck Haul Roads
3. Skid Trails
4. Log Decks, Landings, and Portable
Sawmill Locations
5. Streamside Management Zone
6. Broad-Based Dip
7. Rolling Dip
8. Water Bars
9. Cross Road Drainage by Pipe or
Open-Top Box Culvert
10. Stream Crossings
11. Water Turnouts
12. Site Preparation and Management
13. Revegetation of Bare Soil Areas
14. Wildfire Control and Reclamation
Forested Wetlands
15. Salvage and Sanitation in Streamside
Management Zones
16. Forested Wetlands Preharvest
Planning
17. Forested Wetlands Truck Haul Roads
18. Forested Wetlands Skid Trails
19. Forested Wetlands Log Decks
1. Preharvest Planning
A written preharvest plan should be.prepared.
The plan should include any or all of the
following: property boundaries, streams and
drainages, soil restrictions, slope and
environmental concerns, approximate location
of main haul road and skid trails, location of
potential log landings, portable sawmill
locations, stream or drainage crossings, and
Streamside management zones. A timber sale
contract and the timing of harvest should also
be included in the plan.
2. Track Haul Roads
Roads should follow the contour as much as
possible, with grades between 2 and 10
percent. On soils with a severe erosion
hazard, grades should be 8 percent or less, but
grades exceeding 12 percent for 150 feet may
be acceptable provided measures are taken to
prevent erosion. Vertical road bank cuts
should not exceed 5 feet in height.
Roads (with the exception of stream crossings)
should be constructed at least 50 feet from any
flowing or identifiable streams. Intermittent or
perennial streams should be crossed using
bridges, culverts, or rock fords oriented as
close to the right angle to the stream as
possible. Fords may be used when stream
banks are stable and stream bottoms are hard.
Fords should be used only when vehicles
crossing the stream do not cause increased
sedimentation. Install water turnouts prior to a
stream crossing to direct runoff water into
undisturbed areas of the Streamside
management zone.
Out-slope the road surface where the road
gradient and soil type will permit. In-slope the
road toward the bank as a safety precaution on
sharp turns, on road gradients of 15 percent or
greater, or on clay or slippery roads. Use
cross drainage on in-sloped or crowned roads
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
vvEPA
to limit the travel distance of runoff water.
On in-sloped or crowned roads, install broad-
based or rolling dips within the first 25 feet of
an upgrade if gradients begin to exceed
2 percent for more than 200 feet. Place roads
on side slopes to avoid level ridgetops. Avoid
wet floodplain soils.
Ensure good road drainage with properly
constructed and spaced turnouts, broad-based
dips, rolling dips, culverts, and bridges.
Turnouts must be constructed to prevent water
from cutting channels across the SMZ. Cut
trees along the side of the road where sunlight
is necessary to ensure drying of the road. Use
brush barriers or check dams as needed along
the road fill areas or other sensitive areas.
3. Skid Trails
Gradients should not be steeper than
15 percent However, steeper segments may
be required to avoid boundary lines or
sensitive areas. Skid trails must be located
outside the SMZ. Any skid trail that must
cross a perennial or intermittent stream, or a
drainage ditch that leads to a natural drainage,
should use a bridge or culvert of acceptable
design. Logs should not be skidded through
intermittent or perennial streams. Approaches
to water crossings should be as near to right
angles to the stream direction as possible. .
Ruts should not exceed a depth of 6 inches, on
average, over a distance of 50 feet, on slopes
5 percent or greater. Upon completion
of skidding, the areas subject to erosion should
have water bars installed immediately.
Waterbars should be installed at a 30 to 45
degree angle downslope.
4. Log Decks, Landings, and Portable
Sawmill Locations
Locate sites for decks and portable sawmills in
advance of road construction and at least 50
feet from the SMZ. Decks and yards should
be on well-drained soils, and adequate
drainage on approach roads and trails should
be provided to prevent accumulation of runoff
on the deck area. Oil and other wastes from
servicing equipment should be drained into
containers and disposed of in accordance with
proper solid waste disposal practices. Garbage
and trash must be removed and disposed of
properly. Decks, landings, and portable mill
locations should be stabilized to prevent
erosion and sediment loss within the first
15 days of the next seeding season following
completion of harvesting operations.
5. Streamside Management Zone
The minimum SMZ width on either side of a
perennial stream should be 50 feet. SMZs
may be desirable on intermittent streams for
large drainage areas where wildlife or water
quality is a major concern. Partial harvesting
is acceptable with a minimum of 60 percent of
the crown cover or 60 square feet of basal area
per acre evenly retained. Limit the use of
logging equipment in the SMZ to prevent the
disturbance of the forest floor. Locate sawmill
sites and decks outside the SMZ, and keep
access roads to a minimum. Fertilizers should
not be used in the SMZ.
6. Broad-Based Dip
Broad-based dips can be used on truck roads
and heavily used skid trails having gradients of
12 percent or less. They should not be used
for cross draining spring seeps, intermittent
streams, or perennial streams. This practice
may be substituted for other surface water
cross drainage practices such as a pipe or box
culvert. Specifications for spacing and
installation are provided in the manual.
26
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
7. Rolling Dip
Rolling dips have the same applicability as
broad-based dips, except they can be used on
gradients of 15; percent or less. Specifications
for spacing and installation are provided in the
8. Water Bars
Water bars can be used on roads and skid
trails where there will be no vehicular traffic.
Proper spacing is determined by the percent
grade of the road or skid trail. Water bars
should be oriented at an angle of 30 to 45
degrees downslope to divert surface water off
ihe road/skid trail.
9. Cross Drainage by Pipe or Open-Top
Box Culvert
Culverts can be used for any size operation
where cross drainage of storm water is needed
.for truck roads or major skid trails. Periodic
maintenance is necessary to remove sediments,
gravel, and logging debris and to allow normal
flow of runoff water through the structure at
all times. Specifications for spacing and
installation are provided in the manual.
10. Stream Crossings
Culverts, bridges, or rock fords may be used
to allow logging equipment to cross
intermittent or perennial streams. Pipe
culverts should be long enough so that both
ends extend at least 1 foot beyond the edge of
the fill material and should be placed on a 2 to
5 percent grade to prevent clogging. Erosion
protection measures should be installed at the
culvert outlet. Bridges should be constructed
with minimum disturbance to the stream bank,
channel, or adjacent SMZ. Rock fords or log
fords may be used if no practical alternative
exists. Approaches and stream bottoms must
be hard enough to ensure that no muddy water
results.
11. Water Turnouts
Water turnouts can be used on any road or
trail section where water would accumulate.
The water should be diverted into undisturbed
areas and should not feed directly into adjacent
drainages or channels.
12. Site Preparation and Management
A forest management plan should be developed
prior to any site preparation activities. No site
preparation activities may be conducted in the
SMZs. Prescribed burning and mechanical
site preparation should be conducted in a
manner least likely to cause erosion. Firelines
should have, cross drainage to disperse runoff.
Windrows can be used during mechanical site
preparation to trap sediment. Bedding can be
used to overcome poor drainage, which can
occur on flat sites with a high water table.
Machine planting of seedlings should be done
on the contour. On steep slopes, seedlings
should be planted by hand.
All pesticides should be applied by certified
personnel and in accordance with label
instructions. Measures should be taken to
prevent the pesticides from entering
watercourses by direct application or surface
runoff. Dispose of or clean all containers and
application equipment according to label
requirements.
Application of fertilizer mixtures should be at
rates appropriate for tree species and soils.
Fertilizer should not be broadcast within an
SMZ.
13. Revegetation of Bare Soil Areas
After construction or close of harvesting, all
disturbed areas (bare soil areas) with a grade
27
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
of 5 percent or greater or areas subject to
erosion should be seeded to establish grass
and/or legume vegetation within the first
15 days of the next seeding season. A long-
term perennial, fine-rooted seed mixture
should be used for effective erosion control.
"When seeding is done on highly credible soils,
or under adverse soil or weather conditions,
mulch should be applied immediately after
seeding. Seeded areas should be protected
from grazing and unrestricted vehicle use.
14. Wildfire Control and Reclamation
Do not plow firelines directly into streams.
After the fire, actively eroding gullies should
be stabilized and bare soils revegetated.
Stabilize and revegetate firelines and access
roads.
Forested Wetlands
15. Salvage and Sanitation in SMZs
All previous rules for SMZs apply; however,
small spots of damage (less than 1 acre) may
be completely harvested.
16. Forested Wetlands Preharvest Planning
In addition to the specifications for normal
preharvest planning, the wetlands preharvest
plan should also consider the use of machinery
with flotation devices to minimize impacts to
the soil surface, identification of potential
problems or events that may interrupt logging
operations, and the scheduling of operations
during extreme dry periods or during periods.
that enhance regeneration.
17. Forested Wetlands Truck Haul Roads
Use planking or wooden mats to improve the
soil's ability to support traffic of heavy loads.
Use oversized or balloon tires to reduce
compaction and rutting. Construct fill roads
only when absolutely necessary. Gravel or
crushed rocks should be used as fill to provide
movement of ground water and serve as a base
for the roadbed. Move equipment upland
during periods of potential flooding and wet
periods. Access to the area should be limited.
18. Forested Wetlands Skid Trails
The specifications are the same as for upland
skid trails; however, sandy sloughs can be
used as skid trails during the dry season (never
when there is surface water present). Use
wide tracks (24 inches or more) on bulldozers
and flotation tires on skidders.
19. Forested Wetlands Log Decks
Whenever possible, locate log decks on the
uplands or at higher elevations. All other
guidelines are the same as the guidelines for
upland log decks.
State Contact:
Nancy Milliken
Forestry Section
(302) 739-4811
Other Available State Information
Videos Two 15 minute videos entitled
BMPs for Loggers and Pre-
harvest Planning for Landowners
28
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v>EPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
FLORIDA
Reference: Florida Department of Agriculture
and Consumer Services, Division of Forestry.
1991. Silvicultural Best Management
Practices Manual.
Florida has developed a site sensitivity
classification system to be used in determining
management activities on harvesting sites.
Table 6 illustrates how site classification is
determined by slope, soil credibility, and the
K factor.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Streamside Management Zone
2. Access Road Drainage
3. Access Planning and Considerations
4. Timber Harvesting Sites
5. Site Preparation and Planting
6. Prescribed Fire
7. Pesticides
8. Site Fertilization
1. Streamside Management Zones
A Streamside management zone should be
provided along all perennial streams,
intermittent streams, and lakes 10 acres or
larger. Primary SMZs are 35 feet wide, and
secondary SMZs vary from 0 to 140 feet,
depending on the site sensitivity class.
Mechanical site preparation, fertilization, and
aerial application or mist blowing of herbicides
and insecticides should be avoided within
SMZs. Landings, log bunching points, and
access roads (except at stream crossings)
should not be located in SMZs. Plowed
firelines should only be constructed in SMZs
during emergency conditions.
In the primary SMZ, timber harvesting should
be selective and should leave a volume equal
to or exceeding one-half the volume of a fully
stocked stand. Clearcutting is allowed in the
secondary SMZ, but the degree or percentage
of bare ground exposure should be limited,
and that limit is dependent on the site
sensitivity classification. Direct seeding, hand
planting or machine planting on the contour,
and basal application of pesticides are
recommended practices within secondary
SMZs. Prescribed burning may not occur in
secondary SMZs on slopes greater than
18 percent.
2. Access Road Drainage
Culverts, cross ditches, and turnouts can be
used to divert water from road surfaces to
adjacent vegetated areas for dispersion.
Broad-based dips are recommended for use on
permanent access roads, especially heavily
Table 6. Site Sensitivity Classification
Soil Erodibility
Low
Moderate
High
K Factor
Less than 0.20
0.21 thru 0.27
Greater than 0.28
Slope (percent)
0-2
Al
Bl
Cl
3-7
A2
B2
C2
8-12
A3
B3
C3
13-17
A4
B4
C4
18-22
A5
B5
C5
22+
A6
B6
C6
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
vvEPA
traveled roads. Water bars are recommended
for use on temporary access roads, firelines,
and skid trails. Table 7 contains
recommended maximum spacing of drainage
structures based on site sensitivity
classification.
3. Access Planning and Considerations
Prior to construction, carefully plan location
using soil survey maps, topographic maps, and
aerial photographs. Minimize stream and
wetland crossings. Cross streams at right
angles and place temporary or permanent
aggregate on the road surface at stream
approaches. Use temporary bridges and
adequately sized culverts. Do not impede flow
with hard surface crossings or improved fords.
Construct roads during dry periods, and
balance cuts and fills. Drain roads using
culverts, cross ditches, turnouts, etc., and
outlet drainage devices into vegetated areas of
adequate size to assimilate sediment loads.
Minimize road width, and seed and fertilize
unstable banks.
Maintain drainage measures and keep ditches
and culverts free of obstructions. Close or
restrict traffic on temporary and sensitive
permanent roads to encourage stability.
4. Timber Harvesting Sites
Locate skid trails along the contour.
Concentrate skid trails on organic soils and
disperse them on mineral soils. Stabilize
abandoned skid trails by installing water bars
at recommended intervals. On credible or
steep slopes, seed and fertilize water bars.
:Remove all logging debris from watercourses,
and remove all trash and garbage from
harvested areas. Properly dispose of spent oil
or other toxic liquids.
5. Site Preparation and Planting
Use site preparation techniques that are
adequate to establish seedlings and minimize
vegetative competition, but that are not
needlessly disruptive of topsoil. Pull the
chopper perpendicular to watercourses to
orient indentations parallel to watercourse
when chopping is not followed by bedding.
Arrange beds parallel to watercourses. Keep
the blade used to shear, push, or pile debris
above the soil surface. Pull mechanical
planters parallel to watercourses.
Table 7. Maximum Spacing of Drainage Structures (feet)
Drainage Method
1
Culverts and Cross Ditches None
Water Turnouts 150
Broad-Based Dips None
Water Bars 250
Site
2
200
120
180
135
Sensitivity Class (A-Q
3
150
100
140
80
4
125
75
125
60
5
100
50
120
45
6
75
40
110
30
* The mMimnrri spacing for class Al is 200 feet
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vvEPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
6. Prescribed Fire
Use water bars to stabilize firelines in
Secondary SMZs. Orient firelines along the
contour. Do not use prescribed fire in SMZs
with slopes greater than 18 percent.
7. Pesticides
Use equipment that best directs the chemical to
the target. Do not use aerial application and
mist blowing techniques within SMZs. Do not
leave pesticide containers on the site, and do
not rinse spray equipment in watercourses.
8. Site Fertilization
Develop a prescriptive plan based on a soil or
foliar analysis to indicate appropriate fertilizer
type, application rate, and placement
procedure. Avoid fertilizing in SMZs. Apply
fertilizer in early spring to maximize nutrient
uptake.
State Contact:
Jeff Vowell or
TomGilpin
Florida Division of Forestry
(904)488-4090
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Management Guidelines for
Books Forested Wetlands in Florida
(1988)
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
vvEPA
32
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4MEPA
Current NFS Control'Practices for Forestry
GEORGIA
Reference: Georgia Forestry Commission.
1988. Recommended Best Management
Practices for Forestry in Georgia.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Streamside Management Zones
2. Stream Crossings
3. Access Roads and Their Construction
4. Timber Harvesting
5. Site Preparation
6. Reforestation
7. Forest Protection (Prescribed Burning
and Firelines)
8. Chemical Treatment (Pesticides)
1. Streamside Management Zones
The Streamside management zone consists of a
primary zone and a secondary zone to be
established along perennial and intermittent
streams, lakes, and ponds. Table 8 provides
the required widths for primary and secondary
SMZs delineated by region.
Primary SMZ
Construction of roads or trails in the SMZ
should be avoided. Any type of timber cutting
practice, including clearcutting, is allowable
except along designated mountain trout
streams. However, the use of wheeled or
tracked vehicles should be avoided, arid the
timber should be cabled out of the SMZ.
Felled trees and tops should be removed from
the watercourse. Fire is prohibited in the
primary SMZ. Mechanical site preparation or
machine planting should be avoided, and
revegetation should be performed by hand
planting or direct seeding. Portable sawmills
and log decks should be located outside
primary SMZs. Aerial application of any
pesticide should be avoided.
Secondary SMZ
The recommendations for the secondary SMZ
are similar to those for the primary SMZ, but
less restrictive. The careful use of wheeled or
tracked vehicles is allowable, as is any type of
planting that does not remove forest floor or
expose mineral soil. Fire is also acceptable.
Gully leveling should be avoided, unless
immediately seeded and mulched.
2. Stream Crossings
Advance planning of road location should be
used to reduce or eliminate the number of
stream crossings. Bridges should be used over
large streams (200+ acre watersheds), and
properly sized culverts should be used in small
streams (usually 200 acre or less watersheds).
A table is provided in the manual for proper
culvert sizing. Use temporary fords only
where stream banks and bottoms are hard and
TableS. Streamside Management Zone Widths Based on Regional Differences (feet)
Region Primary SMZ Secondary SMZ
Lower Coastal Plain
Upper Coastal Plain
Piedmont and Mountain
20
40
80
0
40'
80
* Does not apply to bottomlands in this region
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
vvEPA
" relatively level. Any structure or practice that
would impede the free flow of water should be
avoided. All approaches to stream crossings
should be made at right angles and at gentle
grades (about 3 percent). Soil around all
culverts and bridges should be stabilized with
seed and mulch.
3. Access Roads and Their Construction
Hie location of roads should be planned in
advance to minimize the number of roads and
their slopes. Roads should follow the contour
as much as possible and should be located
away from wet areas, SMZs, and the tops of
ridges. Any roads located within the SMZ
should have all exposed soil stabilized with
seed and mulch. Road grades should be kept
to 5 percent or less, except where terrain
requires short steep grades. Avoid constant
use of soft roads during wet conditions, and
remove trees along roadsides to aid in drying
out roads. Broad-based dips and water
turnouts should be used at proper intervals to
channel water from the road. Figures and
specifications are provided in the manual.
Temporary access roads should be retired upon
the completion of harvesting. This includes
reshaping, mulching, seeding, and installing
waterbars.
4. Timber Harvesting
Log decks should be located on stable, well-
drained areas and away from streams and
ponds. Portable sawmills should be located at
least 300 feet from any stream or water body,
and the sawdust and mill waste should not be
discharged in waterways. Minimize soil
disturbance and exposure by alternating
between several different skid trails instead of
using only one primary skid trail. Skidding on
steep slopes should be done on a gradual grade
rather than straight up the slope. Leave
logging debris on exposed soil, on dry washes,
and at points of concentrated drainage from
skid trails and roads. Provisions should be
made at lunch sites and sawmill setups for the
disposal of garbage and human waste.
5. Site Preparation
Site preparation should be planned to consider
water quality, with special emphasis placed on
activities conducted in the SMZs. Soil
disturbance should be kept to a minimum.
Avoid all heavy site preparation on slopes
greater than 20 percent. On highly erodible
soils, use only drum chopping, herbicides, or
prescribed burning. Windrows and planting
beds should be constructed along the contour.
On slopes, leave a natural buffer strip (10+
feet) between roads or roadside ditches and the
prepared site. Do not pile debris in live or
wet-weather streams.
6. Reforestation
BMPs are not necessary for hand planting and
direct seeding because these activities pose no
threat to water quality. Mechanical planting
should be done along the contour.
7. Forest Protection (Prescribed Burning
and Firelines)
Prescribed burning should be carefully planned
and executed, observing weather conditions.
Firelines should follow the contour as much as
possible. On grades greater than 5 percent,
water bars should be installed in the firelines
at frequent intervals.
8. Chemical Treatment (Pesticides)
Federal laws requiring application by trained
and certified licensees following label
instructions should be adhered to at all times.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
State Contact:
Frank Green
Georgia Forestry Commission
(912)751-3485
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Best Management Practices for
Books Forested Wetlands in Georgia
(1990)
Brochures BMPs for Road Construction
and Timber Harvesting
Practices in Georgia; BMPs for
Site Preparation, Reforestation
and Chemical Treatments in
Georgia; BMPs along Trout
Streams in Georgia
Videos Video entitled BMP is Not a
Four Letter Word
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
vvEPA
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EPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
IDAHO
Reference: Idaho Department of Lands. 1992.
Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Idaho
Forest Practices Act Title 38, Chapter 13,
Idaho Code.
Before commencing a forest practice or a
conversion of forest lands, the Department of
Lands must be notified using forms prescribed
and provided by the Department. Notification
is required for the following types of practices:
the harvesting of forest crops including
felling, bucking, yarding, decking, loading,
and hauling; and road construction or
improvement including installation or
replacement of bridges, culverts, or
structures that convey stream flows within
the area described;
* road construction or reconstruction of
existing roads including installation or
replacement of bridges, culverts, or
structures that convey stream flows not
within operation areas associated with the
harvesting of forest tree species;
« reforestation;
application of pesticides and fertilizers for
the purpose of growing or managing forest
tree species;
pre-commercial thinning; and
» clearing forest land for conversion to
nonforest use.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Timber Harvesting
2. Road Construction and Maintenance
3. Reforestation
4. Use of Chemicals
5. Slash Management
6. Practices Bordering Stream Segments
of Concern
7, Petroleum Products
1. Timber Harvesting
Prior to timber harvest, establish streamside
protection zones to protect streambeds and
streamside vegetation and to maintain water
quality and aquatic habitat. Minimize
disturbance to stream bank vegetation and the
stream channel when cable yarding across or
inside the-stream protection zone. Protect the
large organic debris, shading, soil
stabilization, wildlife cover, and water filtering
effects of vegetation along Class I streams.
Retain 75 percent of current shade over the
stream. Within 50 feet of the ordinary high
water mark on both sides of Class I streams,
standing trees must be retained according to
the requirements presented in Table 9.
For each harvest operation, minimize erosion
by selecting the logging method and type of
equipment adapted to the given slope,
landscape, and soil properties. Do not conduct
tracked or wheel skidding in streams, on
slopes exceeding 45 percent gradient
immediately adjacent to Class I or n waters,
or on geologically unstable, saturated, or
easily compacted soils. Tractors used for
skidding must be limited to the size
appropriate for the job. Uphill cable yarding
is preferred, but where downhill yarding is
used, minimize downhill movement of slash
and soils by lifting the leading end of the log.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
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Table 9. Minimum Standing Trees per
1000 Feet (Each Side)
Tree
Diameter
(DBH)
0-7.9"
8-11.9"
12-19.9"
20"+
Stream
Over
20
200
42
21
4
Width
10-20
200
42
21
(feet)
Under
10
200
42
Carefully harvest mature timber from
streamside protection zones. Trees must be
felled, bucked, and limbed in such a manner
that the tree or any part of it will fall away
from any Class I streams. Continuously
remove slash that enters Class I streams as a
result of harvesting operations, and place
material at least 5 feet above the ordinary high
water mark. Slash and other debris that enters
Class n waters should be removed if there is
the potential for the material to move
downstream or obstruct stream flow.
Locate landings, skid trails, and fire trails on
stable areas outside the appropriate stream
protection zones. Avoid stream crossings, but
when necessary install adequately sized
temporary structures perpendicular to the
stream flow. Locate skid trails where
sidecasting is held to a minimum. Minimize
the number and widths of skid trails, and
minimize the size of landings. On geologically
unstable, saturated, highly credible, or easily
compacted soils, limit the grade of skid trails
to 30 percent. To prevent landslides, fill
material used in landing construction must be
free of loose stumps and excessive
accumulations of slash. On slopes where
sidecasting is necessary, stabilize landings by
using seeding, compaction, rip-rapping,
benching, mulching, or other suitable means.
Deposit waste materials from construction or
maintenance of landings and trails in
geologically stable locations outside of the
stream protection zone. For each landing,
skid trail, or fire trail, provide and maintain a
drainage system that will control the dispersal
of surface water to minimize erosion. These
measures can include installing water bars or
cross drains, establishing ground cover, or
regrading landing or trail surfaces.
2. Road Construction and Maintenance
Plan transportation networks to minimize road
construction within stream protection zones.
Plan each road to the minimum design
standards adapted to the terrain and soil
materials to minimize disturbances and damage
to forest productivity, water quality, and
wildlife habitat. Minimize the volume of
excavation material by designing the road
alignment to fit the natural terrain features and
by balancing cuts and fills. Design roads to
drain naturally by out-sloping or in-sloping
with cross drainage and by grade changes.
Plan relief culverts and roadside ditches
whenever reliance on natural drainage would
not protect the running surface, excavation, or
embankment. Stream crossings should be
minimum in number and in compliance with
the minimum standards for stream channel
alteration established under title 42, chapter
38, Idaho Code. Design culverts for stream
crossings to carry the 50-year peak flow.
Specificatios for culvert sizing are provided in
the Rules and are based on region and
watershed drainage area. The minimum
culvert size is 18 inches in diameter. Crossing
structures must provide for fish passage along
Class I streams.
Construct roads to follow design plans. When
constructing road fills near streams, compact
the material. Do not incorporate woody
material into fills, and minimize the amount of
38
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
snow, ice, or frozen soil buried in
embankments. Construct cross drains and
relief culverts to minimize erosion of
embankments, and use rip-rap, .vegetative
matter, downspouts, and similar devices to
minimize erosion of the fill. Stabilize exposed
materials by seeding, mulching, rip-rapping,
or other means. Postpone construction during
wet periods if erodible material would enter
streams.
Conduct regular preventive maintenance
operations to avoid deterioration of the
roadway surface and to minimize disturbances
and damage to forest productivity, water
quality, and fish and wildlife habitat. During
and upon completion of seasonal operations,
the road surface must be crowned, out-sloped,
in-sloped, or water barred, and berms must be
removed from the outside edge except those
intentionally constructed for protection of fills.
Maintain the road surface to minimize erosion
of the subgrade and to provide proper
drainage. Keep culverts and ditches
functional. When road surface stabilization
materials are applied, prevent their entry into
surface waters. Following termination of
active use, the road surface should be
crowned, out-sloped, in-sloped, or water
barred, and ditches and culverts should be
cleared. Restrict access of vehicular traffic.
When permanently abandoning roads, control
erosion by out-sloping, water barring, or
seeding; clean ditches; restrict access to the
road; and remove bridges and culverts unless
they will be maintained.
Roads that will be used for winter operations
must have adequate surface and cross drainage
installed prior to winter operations. This can
include rolling dips, driveable cross ditches,
open-top culverts, and outsloping. Maintain
and drain road surfaces during thaws by
performing active maintenance on existing
drainage structures, opening drainage holes in
snow berms, and installing additional cross
drainage as needed.
3. Reforestation
Reforestation is required on all nonexempt
forest land within five growing seasons after a
forest harvesting practice reduces the number
of acceptable tree species below the acceptable
minimum stocking level. Stocking levels and
exemptions are provided. Where reforestation
is not being planned, vegetative cover must be
established within 1 year of completion of
harvesting operations on disturbed areas larger
than 1 acre.
4. Use of Chemicals
Chemicals should be used in accordance with
the requirements of the Idaho Pesticide Law
Regulations (title 22, chapter 34, Idaho Code).
Equipment used for transportation, storage, or
application must be maintained in leakproof
condition. When chemicals are mixed with
water, provide an air, gap or reservoir between
the water source and the mixing tank, and use
uncontaminated pumps, hoses, and screens.
Mix chemicals and clean tanks only where
possible spills would not enter water bodies.
Apply chemicals in accordance with
manufacturer's label instructions and all state
and federal requirements. Carefully plan
aerial and ground applications to avoid direct
and indirect entry of chemicals into surface
waters. For aerial applications, use a bucket
or spray device capable of immediate shutoff,
and shut off application during turns and over
open water. A buffer strip must be maintained
on each side of Class I streams, flowing Class
II streams, and other areas of open water.
Table 10 contains the minimum required buffer
widths. ,
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vvEPA
Table 10. Minimum Buffer Widths for
Chemical Applications
Application Method
Width (feet)
Aerial application
Aerial application of
pelletized fertilizer
Ground application with
power equipment
Ground application of
fertilizer with power
equipment
100
50
25
10
Maintain a record of all aerial chemical
applications and ground applications on areas
greater than 20 acres and retain for a period of
3 years. If any hazardous chemical is
accidentally spilled, contain and neutralize the
chemical in accordance with applicable state
and federal laws and immediately notify the
director of the Department of Lands.
5. Slash Management
Manage slash and fire hazards (fuels and
debris) generated from harvesting, forest
management, or defoliation caused by
chemical applications in that manner necessary
to protect reproduction and residual stands; to
reduce risk from fire, insects, and disease; and
lo maintain air and water quality, and fish and
wildlife habitat. A point system has been
established to determine potential fire hazards
and hazard reductions and/or offsets.
6. Practices Bordering Stream Segments of
Concern
A forest practice may not be conducted hi an
area bordering a stream segment of concern
until the Department has received and formally
accepted notification. The Department must
review watershed goals and objectives and
landowner management plans and if necessary,
must meet with the appropriate local working
committee to determine site-specific BMPs
necessary to achieve water quality and fishery
objectives. A written agreement must be
signed by the landowner and an authorized
representative of the Department. This
agreement constitutes formal acceptance of the
forest practice notice.
7. Petroleum Products
Equipment used for transportation or storage
of petroleum products must be maintained in a
leakproof condition. Locate storage containers
with capacities greater than 200 gallons at least
100 feet from water bodies. Construct dikes
or berms around storage tanks that are
sufficiently impervious and have adequate
capacity to contain spills. Contact the Director
immediately in the event of a spill. Fueling
operations or transfer of petroleum products to
other containers must be constantly monitored.
Do not place wastes from logging operations,
such as crankcase oil, filters, and grease and
oil containers, inside Class I or II stream
protection zones.
State Contact:
Jim Colla
Idaho Dept. of Lands
Box 670
Coeur D'Alene, ID 83814
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vvEPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
ILLINOIS
Reference: Recommended Best Management
Practices for Forestry. Illinois 208 Water
Quality Management Plan, pp. 337-358.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Forest Management Planning
2. Road Systems
3. Drainage Systems
4. Logging Systems
5. Streamside Management Zones
6. Site Disturbance
7. Pesticide Use
8. Fertilizer Use
1. Forest Management Planning
Forest management plans should be developed
for all forested areas and should be
periodically revised and updated. Road
systems should be planned, and planning
should be completed prior to construction and
harvesting.
Road systems should be designed to fit the
topography and follow the contour. The
design should minimize road lengths and
density, as well as minimizing soil
disturbance. The design should also minimize
large cuts and fills immediately adjacent to
stream channels.
Natural drainage systems should not be
disturbed. Drainage plans for road systems
should ensure that road drainage is properly
dispersed onto stable forested areas and does
not flow directly into streams.
Timber harvest plans should be drawn up so
that harvest areas are located and laid out to
minimize the intensity of activities in high-
hazard areas. Fragile or highly sensitive soil
areas or areas with extremely steep slopes
should be harvested only with a logging
system that minimizes site disturbance.
Logging systems, cutting area, landings, and
skid trails should be designed and located so as
to avoid fording across streams and to
minimize disturbance to streambeds and banks.
Stream channels should not be used as skid
trails, and stream crossings should be kept to a
minimum. ' _
2. Road Systems
Avoid high-hazard areas when locating logging
roads. Locate logging roads on benches or
ridges and avoid paralleling stream channels.
Locate roads such that there are discontinuous
grades and suitable drainages. Avoid long,
steep gradients. Minimize wet-weather road
building and the area of bare soil subject to
uncontrolled runoff. Keep road gradients
below 10 percent, and spread 2-6 inches of
gravel over the roadbed on flat terrain with
poor drainage. Construct drainage ditches so
that water does not flow directly into a stream.
Do not dump slide debris or excess fill
material within the high water zone of streams.
Culverts and bridges should not constrict
channels and should be designed to pass flood-
level waters. Stream crossings should be kept
to a minimum and should be located at right
angles to the channel and at stable bank
locations. Avoid stream channel disturbance,
and use vegetative cover to stabilize stream .
banks. Align culverts parallel to streams.
Clear stream channels of all debris produced
during construction. Maintain the integrity of
logging roads; do not use roads when the
roadway is soft. Close roads to vehicular
traffic upon completion of logging operation.
Revegetate closed road areas and remove
bridges and culverts.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
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3. Drainage Systems
Properly design and install drainage ditches,
and divert drainage water into stable, vegetated
areas, sump holes, or settling basins to remove
sediments. Do not locate logging roads and
landings in natural drainage ways or in
unstable areas. Inspect and clear drainage
systems periodically.
4. Logging Systems
Minimize site disturbance and remove tops
from drainageways. Locate skid trails on the
contour and avoid high-hazard areas. Keep
the trail grades low. Minimize the number
and length of skid trails. Avoid skidding
across streams, and do not allow skidders on
trails in wet weather. Properly maintain skid
trails. Locate landings in stable areas away
from streams and drainage ways. Restrict
logging equipment to firm, stable areas, and
do not service equipment in locations adjacent
to lakes, rivers, streams, or drainage ditches.
5. Streamside Management Zones
Leave streamside management zones of
sufficient width along sides of all perennial
streams, and exclude skidders and logging
equipment from SMZs. Leave sufficient
streamside vegetation to shade temperature-
sensitive waters. Do not allow tops and other
logging debris to enter the waters of perennial
streams, and do not dump slide debris or
excess fill within the high water zone of
streams. Do not use mechanical site
preparation within 100 feet of streams or other
bodies of water. Avoid fertilizer or pesticide
application in the SMZ.
6. Site Disturbance
Minimize disturbance of the soil and the forest
floor. Convert marginal cropland, steep ,
slopes, and sensitive areas to permanent forest
cover. Evaluate the erosion potential of soils
with soil surveys and the Universal Soil Loss
Equation (USLE). Perform site preparation on
the contour, and perform work during dry
weather.
7. Pesticide Use
Only use approved and registered pesticides,
and use them in strict accordance with
regulations and manufacturer's directions.
Minimize application and/or prevent direct
discharge into streams or other water bodies.
Provide safe storage and do not service
equipment in locations adjacent to streams or
other water bodies. Do not apply pesticides
immediately before heavy rain. Dispose of
equipment rinse water in areas where it will
not contaminate any water body.
8. Fertilizer Use
Apply fertilizers during maximum uptake
periods. Do not apply directly to, or allow
fertilizer to drift into, any water body. Apply
fertilizer only on the basis of need to correct
nutrient deficiency. Do not apply it
immediately preceding heavy rain. Properly
dispose of equipment rinse water fluids.
State Contact:
Pete Skuba
Forest Protection Program Manager
Illinois Dept. of Conservation
(217) 782-2361
or
Rick Mollahan
Illinois EPA
(217) 785-3958
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
INDIANA
References: Indiana Department of Natural
Resourcesi Division of Forestry. Logging
Roads and Skid Trails: A Guide for Soil
Protection and Timber Management; and
Indiana Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Forestry. 1992. Best Management
Practices: Protecting the Woods While
Harvesting - Final Draft.
the Indiana Classified Forest Act requires
program participation to follow a forest
management plan in exchange for a lowered
tax assessment and free forest inspections
every 5 years. The Act requires "watershed
protection" and plans generally address BMP's
in relation to soil erosion and timber
harvesting. The Indiana Flood Control Act
-(LC. 13-2-22) prohibits any fill or obstruction
that would "adversely affect the efficiency of
or unduly restrict the capacity of a floodway."
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Planning Road Locations
2. Logging Operations
3. Closing Roads and Trails After
Logging
4. Bridges and Culverts
5. Buffer Strips
6. Waste Disposal
1. Planning Road Locations
Prior to commencing harvesting operations,
plan the location of logging roads, skid trails,
and loading areas. Locate roads and trails on
side slopes, and avoid ridge tops or flats where
water cannot drain properly. Do not locate
skid trails directly up-slope. Design roads and
trails at a 2 to 10 percent grade, and allow
grades of 15 to 20 percent only for short
distances. Grades of less than 1 percent will
result in poor drainage. Avoid stream
crossings, but when necessary, locate crossings
at right angles to stream flow where
approaches are level for at least 50 feet on
both sides. Loading areas should have slopes
between 2 and 4 percent and should be located
on well-drained soils. Leave a buffer strip of
undisturbed land between watercourses and
logging roads, skid trails, and loading areas.
2. Logging Operations
Minimize the area disturbed by road, trail, or
logging yard construction. Do not locate
logging yards within 50 feet of a perennial or
major intermittent stream. Because skid trail
surfaces are constantly disturbed during
skidding, the best methods of controlling water
on skid trails are the proper initial placement
of skid trails and the maintenance of natural
drainages. Do not operate equipment when
rutting in excess of 8 inches is occurring.
Use drainage dips to divert water flow off
steep or long road grades.. Construct dips on
grades of 10 percent or less. The
recommended spacing of drainage dips is
provided in Table 11.
Table 11. Drainage Dip Spacing
Road Grade
(percent)
Distance Between
Dips
(feet)
1
2
5
10
500
300
180
140
Periodically clean drains and perform
maintenance to roads and skid trails. Gravel
portions of roads most sensitive to erosion.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
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'Avoid logging in or close to streams, and
prevent tops and slash from entering streams.
Remove all stream flow obstructions created
by the harvest.
3. Closing Roads and Trails After Logging
Upon completion of harvesting operations,
repair drainage dips on logging roads and
remove temporary structures. Construct water
breaks on skid trails where water control is
needed. Water breaks should be angled
30 degrees downslope and should extend 1 to
2 feet on either side of the skid trail. The
recommended spacing between water breaks is
provided in Table 12.
Table 12. Water
SMd Trail
Grade
(percent)
1-2
3-5
5-10
11-15
16-20
21-30+
Break Spacing
Distance Between
Water Breaks
(feet)
500-250
250-125
125-80
80-60
60-40
40-30
Smooth and out-slope rutted skid trails and
logging roads to a 2 to 3 percent grade.
Smooth log landings and clear debris. Seed
and/or mulch heavily traveled steep areas, log
landings, and stream approaches. Remove
slash from streams before leaving the area.
Restrict access to the harvested area.
4. Bridges and Culverts
Minimize the number of stream crossings
required for the harvest. Use bridges,
culverts, or solid rock ford when crossing
large streams. A permit from the Department
of Natural Resources may be required for
construction of a stream-crossing structure.
Locate bridge crossings perpendicular to
. stream flow where the stream channel is
straight, flow is unobstructed, and the
approaches are fairly level for a minimum of
50 feet on both sides. Place abutments parallel
to stream flow. Install culverts at a
30 degree angle downslope, and keep them
clear of debris. Do not use open-top culverts
on skid trails.
5. Buffer Strips
When harvesting near water bodies,
watercourses, cave openings, or other sensitive
areas, retain a buffer strip of at least 50 feet
where little or no harvesting activity will
occur. This area can also be referred to as a
streamside management area. Harvesting
within the buffer strip should be limited to
50 percent removal of the canopy cover.
Remove any tree tops from surface waters and
place at least 50 feet from the water's edge.
Do not locate haul roads, skid trails, or
landings in buffer strips.
6. Waste Disposal
J
Do not allow toxic wastes to enter forest soils
or surface waters. Carefully refuel equipment
to avoid spills; this applies to chainsaws as
well as larger equipment. When changing
fluids, drain them into containers and remove
them for recycling or proper disposal.
Remove all trash from the harvesting site.
State Contact:
Daniel Ernst
Dept of Natural Resources
(317)232-4106
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
KENTUCKY
Reference: Kentucky Department for Natural
Resources and Environmental Protection,
Division of Forestry. 1992. Kentucky Forest
Practice Guidelines for Water Quality
Management.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Access Roads
2. Skid Roads and Skid Trails
3. Landings and Concentration Yards
4. Vegetative Establishment on
Silviculturally Disturbed Areas
5. Livestock Exclusion
6. Fire Lines and Prescribed Burning
7. Site Preparation and Reforestation
8. Fertilization
9. Pesticides
10. Streamside Management Zones
11. Logging Debris and Trash
12. Wetlands
1. Access Roads
Use topography, property lines, and soil
surveys to locate roads on low grades and
away from streams, rock outcrops, ledges, wet \
areas, and other obstacles. Retain SMZs
between watercourses and roads. Avoid
stream crossings, but when necessary cross
streams perpendicular to stream flow. The use
of temporary bridges or culverts is preferred,
but when fords are used on permanent roads,
gravel each side where significant soil
disturbance may occur. Design cut-and-fill
slopes to the normal angle of repose.
If possible, construct roads several months in
advance of anticipated use to allow for settling
and increased surface stability. Adequate
drainage is the most important factor in
controlling soil erosion and keeping a road in
serviceable condition. Out-slope the entire
width of the road to a slope of 1A inch per foot
to reduce the number of drainage structures
required. If soil conditions are such that out-
sloping the road would reduce safety, in-slope
the road and install additional drainage
structures. Specifications for constructing and
installing culverts, water bars, and drainage
dips are provided in the manual. The
recommended distance between drainage
structures is based on road grade, but actual
distance should consider site-specific
conditions. Drainage dips should not be
installed to accommodate flowing water.
Construct bridges only when a stream crossing
cannot be avoided by using an alternative road
location or when other structures such as
culverts cannot be used. Locate bridges
perpendicular to stream flow where the stream
channel is straight and the approaches are
reasonably level for a minimum of SO feet on
both sides. Bridges should not impede natural
stream flow.
Periodically inspect and maintain roads.
Problem areas having steep road grades and
wet areas should be logged during favorable
weather conditions to minimize road damage
and subsequent repairs. Minimize road use
during wet weather unless surface materials
permit all-weather use. Maintain a properly
functioning drainage system by clearing
drainage structures of debris and regrading the
road surface. After completion of forest
activity, retire access roads by smoothing and
reshaping road surfaces, replacing open-top
culverts with water bars or drainage ditches,
and revegetating road surfaces, road banks,
and landings.
2. Skid Roads and Skid Trails
Plan the skid road system prior to beginning
harvesting operations. Locate landings first
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
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and lay out the skid road approach with a low
grade. Locate skid trails along the contour,
avoiding streambeds. Construct skid trails on
a slant or zig-zag path, breaking the grade
occasionally to avoid long, steep slopes.
Install water turnouts and cross drains at the
recommended intervals. Minimize the number
of stream crossings, and construct small
bridges or install culverts at stream crossings,
particularly on the main skid road where
fording could generate considerable sediment.
"When avoidable, do not harvest during wet
weather. When skidding, pull logs uphill or
along the contour and raise the end of the log
to minimize soil disturbance and trench
formation. When harvesting around sinkholes,
do not push debris or divert water into the
sinkhole and be careful of immediate area soil
disturbance.
Maintain an effective drainage system on skid
trails during harvesting operations. Upon
completion of harvesting operations, clear
debris from streambeds and restore them to
their natural shape and grade, install water
bars, and revegetate steep sections of trails.
Rocks and logging debris can be used to
construct water retardent structures on steep
grades.
3. Landings and Concentration Yards
Prevent erosion from landings and yards
through proper location and use. Retain
adequate SMZs between landings and
watercourses. Landings and yards should have
a slope sufficient to allow for drainage.
Prevent entry of runoff into the landing area
by providing adequate drainage on approach
roads and constructing a diversion ditch along
the uphill side of the landing. Revegetate
landings and yards immediately following the
completion of forest activities.
4. Vegetative Establishment on
" SHviculturally Disturbed Areas
When needed and where feasible, grade the
area to be vegetated to permit the use of
conventional equipment for seedbed
preparation, seeding, mulching, and
maintenance. If seedbed preparation is not
being performed, scarify the soil surface prior
to applying seed, lime, and fertilizer. Apply
fertilizer and lime at rates sufficient to provide
adequate vegetative cover considering site
conditions and plant species. Incorporate the
fertilizer and lime into the soil to a depth of
4 to 6 inches with a harrow, disk, or rake
operated along the contour. Apply mulch to
areas that are steep, eroding, or difficult to
revegetate. Tables are provided in the manual
to determine proper plant selection, seeding
dates, and application rates for seed, fertilizer,
and mulch.
5. Livestock Exclusion
Use a fence or barrier to protect eroded, newly
planted, or rundown areas and areas planted
for wildlife food and cover from domestic
livestock grazing. Fences are commonly wire
but can be constructed of wood or stone. All
fences should be built in accordance with good
construction principles and workmanship.
Specifications for fence construction are
provided in the manual.
6. Fire Lines and Prescribed Burning
Construct fire lines around the perimeter of an
area to be treated by prescribed burning, and
during wildfire control operations or prior to
the occurrence of wildfire. Plan and install
fire lines to minimize erosion. Locate fire
lines along the contour at low grades.
Construct fire lines only as deep and wide as
necessary to control the fire. Install water
bars on fire lines at the same interval
recommended for skid trails. Do not drain
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vvEPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
runoff directly into streams. Revegetate fire
lines where there is the potential for erosion.
Carefully plan prescribed burns to occur
during proper weather and fuel conditions and
to adhere to State laws regarding burning and
air pollution. Execute burning only with
trained personnel under carefully prescribed
conditions of humidity, temperature, and wind.
"When piling and burning, avoid streambeds,
minimize incorporation of soil into the piles,
and construct piles along the contour. Retain a
filter strip between the burned area and
watercourses.
7. Site Preparation and Reforestation
Choose the type and intensity of site
preparation mat will minimize soil disturbance
and adverse water quality impacts. Methods
selected should be based on the amount, size,
and type of vegetation present, slope gradient,
and credibility of the soil. Use low impact
site preparation methods where possible.
Favor chemical treatments over mechanical
methods on steep slopes (those exceeding
30 percent) and highly credible soil. Table 13
lists various site preparation methods and their
potential to impact water quality.
Always establish SMZs between watercourses
and site-prepared areas. Use hand methods
next to streams or on steep slopes. Operate
site preparation machinery along the contour.
Operate a mechanical tree planter on the
contour to prevent erosion and soil movement
originating from the planting slit created by the
coulter disk on the machine. Avoid operating
heavy equipment during wet weather to
minimize soil disturbance and compaction.
When possible, perform heavy site preparation
during the summer and early fall to avoid
winter rains and to allow time for loose soil to
settle before planting. Provide for temporary
vegetative cover of the area if soil will be
exposed for long periods of time.
Table 13. Potential Site Preparation
Impacts on Water Quality
Site Preparation
Method
Water Quality
Impact Potential
Herbicide injection Little or no hazard
Clearfelling with
chainsaw
Herbicide spraying
Drum chopping
Drum chopping with
burning
Shearing and
windrowing
Disking
Little or no hazard
Potential, if
pesticide BMP not
followed
Medium potential
Medium potential
High potential
High potential
Construct windrows only when necessary.
Locate windrows 100 to 300 feet apart along
the contour and away from drains and streams.
Minimize the incorporation of soil during
windrow construction. Provide occasional
breaks in windrows to allow access for fire
suppression and other vehicles and to prevent
damming of water and potential gullying.
8. Fertilization .
Fertilization may be accomplished by manual,
aerial, or machine application of soluble .
inorganic compounds or through the
application of animal waste. Before any
application of fertilizer, perform a soil test to
determine which specific soil elements, if any,
are lacking. Avoid direct'application of
fertilizers to water bodies. Additional
controlling factors are the elimination of
excessive fertilizer applications, the selection
of proper fertilizer formulation, and the proper
timing and method of application.
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9. Pesticides
Use pesticides in accordance with
manufacturer's label instructions and all
pertinent state and federal laws. Mix
pesticides in the correct quantity to minimize
excess material. Do not apply near water
bodies if a pesticide has aquatic toxicity. Do
not dean equipment or dump excess pesticides
near water bodies or wells. Use excess spray
material in accordance with label instructions
or dispose of it according to appropriate
regulations. Triple rinse and properly dispose
of empty pesticide containers. Develop an
emergency plan and maintain absorbent
material in case of a spill.
10. Streamside Management Zones
Designate Streamside management zones
around all watercourses where harvesting and
other forestry activities may occur. SMZs
should be 30 to 50 feet wide on relatively flat
ground and 50 to 90 feet wide on steeper
ground. The SMZs widths provided in Table
14 are based on percent slope and are more
technical recommendations. Wider SMZs may
be necessary if there is great erosion potential
from steep slopes or unstable soils.
Retain 50 percent of the tree overstory and
stream canopy cover along perennial streams.
"Winching is the preferred method of removing
logs from an SMZ. For streams designated as
Coldwater Aquatic Habitats (CAHs), additional
protective measures are recommended. These
measures include not disturbing understory
vegetation that is immediately adjacent to the
stream and limiting overstory removal to trees
of high commercial value.
Locate roads and landings outside SMZs and
as fat from streams as practical. Avoid
operating logging equipment or other vehicles
in SMZs, except at designated stream
crossings. Pesticide and fertilizer use in SMZs
Table 14. SMZ Widths
Slope of Land
(percent)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Width of Zone
(feet)
25
45
65
85
105
125
145
165
is generally undesirable, but all applications
should comply with label directions and should
follow recommended BMPs.
11. Logging Debris and Trash
Take precautions to prevent tree debris from
falling into or being washed into perennial
streams. Fell trees away from drainages and
perennial streams, if possible, and remove any
accidental debris and place it above the
ordinary high water mark. Do not leave
equipment on stream banks or change oil or
equipment fluids in a manner that causes
pollutants to wash into a stream. Properly
dispose of trash, such as oil cans, bottles, and
lunch bags.
12. Wetlands
Minimize construction of permanent roads.
However, when needed, locate roads on the
higher ground parallel to the drainage system
and use a minimum amount of fill material.
Generally, avoid crossing streams and sloughs,
but when necessary cross perpendicular to the
stream flow, using culverts or bridges without
altering natural drainage or disturbing stream
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
banks and other sensitive areas. Upon
completion of forestry operations, temporary
roads should be reshaped and revegetated,
stream crossing structures should be removed,
and access should be restricted.
Establish SMZs of at least 50 feet in width to
protect streams, sloughs, and lake banks.
Timber may be harvested in the SMZs, but
retain 50-75 percent of overstory to shade
streams and sloughs. Minimize operation of
logging vehicles and equipment.
Plan to harvest during dry weather. Minimize
the number and size of landings, and locate
them on elevated areas away from streams and
SMZs. Restrict vehicle travel to a minimum.
Use low-ground-pressure tires on skidders and
concentrate skidding to a few primary skid
trails. Scarify severely compacted areas on
log landings and skid trails and revegetate to
prevent erosion and improve wildlife habitat.
Always use pesticides in accordance with label
instructions, and adhere to all federal and state
policies and regulations. Carefully plan aerial
application of pesticides to prevent
contamination of streams, ponds, and forested
wetlands and to reduce the possibility of
damage to nontarget plant and animal life.
State Contact:
Gary Perkins
Kentucky Division of Forestry
(502) 5644496
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
LOUISIANA
Reference: Louisiana Department of
Agriculture and Forestry and Louisiana
Forestry Association. 1988. Recommended
Forestry Best Management Practices for
Louisiana,
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1, Streamside Management Zone
2. Permanent Access Roads and
Their Construction
3. Timber Harvesting
4. Reforestation
5. Fire Line Construction
6. Forest Chemicals
L. Streamside Management Zones
Establish a zone adequate to protect streambed
and stream bank integrity. The larger the
stream, the wider the Streamside management
zone. Locate roads and log decks outside
SMZs when possible. Avoid frequent stream
crossings and cross only at right angles to the
stream flow. When crossing, use culverts,
bridges, or fords. Do not leave trees, tops, or
temporary crossing materials in watercourses.
2. Permanent Access Roads and Their
Construction
Construct a road to sufficiently carry the
anticipated traffic load with minimum
environmental impact. If possible, avoid
building roads in narrow canyons, marshes;
wet meadows, natural drainage channels, and
SMZs. Locate roads along the crest of long
ridges, on the contour, and at a distance
sufficient to minimize the impact to streams.
Minimize the number of stream crossings, and
cross streams at right angles to the main
channel. Timber on road rights-of-way should
be removed or decked outside the borrow
ditches. Balance cuts and fills, and use the
excavated material to avoid creating
unnecessary borrow pits. Sidecast or fill
material should not be placed below the
ordinary high water mark of any stream.
Roads should be designed to drain naturally at
all times. Ditches, culverts, and cross drains
should be installed at low points in the road
gradient. Keep culverts open and clean to
permit unrestricted water flow. Protect low
water bridges, fills, and earth embankments
from high-water erosion. Waste materials and
woody debris should be cleared from streams
and drainage ways. Bridges should not
constrict clearly defined stream channels.
Cross streams during periods of dry weather
when stream flow and the threat of erosion are
minimized.
Revegetate or stabilize exposed soil. Inspect
frequently used roads. Crown or out-slope
road surfaces and install waterbars, dips, or
other diversions to dissipate surface runoff and
minimize roadbed erosion. Restrict traffic
during periods of excessive ground moisture if
such restriction is practical.
3. Timber Harvesting
Harvesting operations should be planned and
conducted to minimize soil compaction, .
erosion, and sedimentation. Minimize the
number of skid trails and the amount of traffic
on steep slopes. Watercourses and streambeds
should not be used for skidding or forwarding,
and skidding across streams should be
minimized. Skid away from permanent and
intermittent streams. Fell trees away from
water bodies and remove any debris that gets
into water, streams, or drainage courses.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
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Service equipment away from streams.
Dispose of trash and oil properly. Upon
completion of operations, condition temporary
roads, skid trails, and landings to minimize
erosion.
4. Reforestation
Use the minimum site preparation necessary to
control competing vegetation and establish a
desirable timber stand. Analyze and plan the
site preparation .methods and equipment to be
used, considering soil, topography, competing
vegetation, precipitation, and drainage
patterns, with special emphasis on protecting
SMZs. Use operations that will minimize soil
disturbance. Hand planting, direct seeding, or
natural regeneration should be used on
protected areas adjacent to streams or on
slopes too steep to machine plant. When
working on slopes, mechanical operations
should follow contours. (Drum chopping is an
exception.) "Windrows and machine planting
should also follow the contour. Provide water
outlets on bedded areas at locations that will
minimize soil movement. Streams should
becrossed by equipment only on bridges or
fording sites that minimize stream channel
disturbance.
5. Kreline Construction
Presuppression firebreaks should be located on
Ihe contour as often as possible. Firebreaks
on erodible steeper grades should contain
waterbars or diversions at frequent intervals.
Discharge water into undisturbed vegetation
outside the burn, when possible.
6. Forest Chemicals
Landowners must observe all state and federal
laws and regulations that cover the purchase,
transport, storage, use, and disposal of
chemicals. Silvicultural chemicals should be
applied by trained and certified licensees, and
all label instructions should be followed.
State Contact:
Donald P. Feduccia
Office of Forestry
(504) 925^500
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
MAINE
References: Maine Forest Service. 1991.
Erosion & Sediment Control Handbook for
Maine Timber Harvesting Operations Best
Management Practices and the 1989 Forest
Practice Act.
The 1989 Forest Practice Act requires
notification by the landowner or designated
agent to the Bureau of Forestry prior to
commencing harvesting operations.
Notification must be on forms supplied by the
Bureau and must include the following:
(1) the name, address and phone number of
the landowner, any designated agent, and,
if known; any harvester(s);
(2) the name and address of any licensed
professional forester consulting the
landowner on forest management or
harvesting practices;
(3) the municipality or township and county
ofharvest;
(4) the name of the nearest public or private
all-weather road;
(5) the approximate dates the harvest will
begin and finish;
(6) the anticipated acreage to be harvested;
C7) whether the land is being harvested to
convert to another use within 2 years and,
if so, what that use is to be;
(8) the signatures of the landowner or
designated agent; and
(9) a map locating the harvest site in relation
to known or easily identifiable terrain
features, such as a road junction or a
stream and road junction.
A forest management and harvest plan must be
prepared and updated every 10 years for
commercial forest land to be taxed as such.
The Act defines the forest management and
harvest plan as a written document prepared
by a licensed professional forester, outlining
activities to regenerate, improve, and harvest a
standing crop of timber. The plan must
include the location of water bodies and
wildlife habitat identified by the Department of
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Logging Yards and Landings
2. Skid Roads and Skid Trails
3. Truck Roads
4. Broad-Based Drainage Dips
5. Filter Strips
6. Skid Humps
7. Water Bars
8. Bridges Gog, metal, or combination)
9. Cross Drainage Culverts
10. Streambed Culverts
11. Pesticides
12. Oils, Fuels, Coolants,, and Hazardous
Wastes
13. Protection of Permanent Streams and
Water Bodies from Temperature
Increases or Siltation
14. Seeding and Revegetation
15. Slash
16. Temporary Sand-Salt Storage Areas
17. Sediment Barriers
1. Logging Yards and Landings
Locate yards and landings away from streams,
ponds or lakes, very steep areas, wet areas,
and filter strips. Landings should be located
on gently .sloping and higher ground with good
drainage. Size landings to meet the needs of
the harvesting operation. Divert water
draining from landings so that it does not enter
truck roads or skid trails or flow into streams,
ponds, lakes, or wetlands, but flows onto
undisturbed forest floor. Oil, transmission
fluid, antifreeze, and other toxic products
should be disposed of in accordance with
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Current NPS Control Practices for Forestry
EFA
approved procedures. Upon completion of .
operations, clean up the landing area and
stabilize the soil to prevent erosion.
2. Skid Roads and Skid Trails
Routes should be planned to be the most direct
and take advantage of natural features that will
make construction and.drainage easier while
avoiding long, steep grades, sharp bends, wet
areas, streams, ponds, and lakes. Sensitive.
areas should be logged during periods of dry
weather or when the ground is frozen. Keep
stream crossings to a minimum, and cross at
right angles where the approaches are
reasonably level for a minimum of 50 feet on
both sides. Crossings should not impede water
flow or fish passage, and disturbance to the
streambed and banks should be minimized.
"Upon completion of operations, revegetate and
mulch unstable areas, install water diversions,
and place slash on skid trails to slow runoff.
3. Truck Roads
Minimize the length of road required from
landing to public highway. Avoid
watercourses, water bodies, wet areas, steep
terrain, sharp curves, hard bedrock, game
management areas, and long, level sections of
road that are difficult to drain. Crown roads,
where possible, and provide drainage ditches,
water diversion structures, and sediment traps
as necessary. Revegetate or stabilize all cut or
fill banks and areas of exposed mineral soil
outside the roadbed. Road banks should not
have a slope steeper than 2:1. Keep stream
crossings to a minimum, and cross at right
angles where the approaches are reasonably
level for a minimum of 50 feet on both sides.
4. Broad-Based Drainage Dips
Broad-based drainage dips should be installed
in roads with long slopes of less than
10 percent and spaced no farther apart than the
distance indicated in Table 15. Discharge
should be diverted to an undisturbed vegetated
area, and the discharge area should be
protected with stone, grass, sod, heavy litter,
and slash or logs.
Table 15. Broad-Based Dip Spacing
Road Grade
(percent)
0-2
3-5
6-10
Spacing
(feet)
500-300
250-180
167-140
5. Filter Strips
Locate areas to be maintained as filter strips
(next to streams, lakes, etc.) and determine
appropriate width using Table 16. With the
exception of intermittent streams, no more
than 40 percent of the total volume of timber 6
inches DBH and greater within the filter strip
should be removed in a 10-year period, and
the trees removed should be reasonably
distributed throughout the filter strip. Avoid
felling trees into or across watercourses and
water bodies. Do not disturb the topsoil or
duff within the filter strip.
Table 16. Filter Strip Widths
Slope of Land
(percent)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Width of Strip
(feet)
25
45
65
85
105
125
145
165
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
6. Skid Humps
Use natural humps or rises in the landscape
wherever possible. Table 17 provides
appropriate spacing for skid humps according
to grade.
Table 17. Skid Hump Spacing
Road Grade
(percent)
1-2
3-10
11 +
Spacing
(feet)
300
150
100
7. Water Bars
Upon completion of operations, install water
bars at the top and bottom of steep sections of
skid roads and trails, starting at the end of the
road and working back toward the log yard
and truck road. Install water bars at an
approximate 30-degree angle downslope from
a line perpendicular to the center line of the
road. Table 18 contains the recommended
spacing for water bars. Stabilize water bars
by revegetating the surface. Place rocks,
slash, or logs at outlet to disperse and filter the
water.
Table 18. Water Bar Spacing
Road Grade
(percent)
1-2
3-5
6-10
11-15
16-20
21 +
Spacing
(feet)
250
200-135
100-80
80-60
60-45
40
8. Bridges
Bridges should be located where the water
channel is straight and unobstructed and where
the road would cross at right angles. The
banks should be firm and level and have
approaches that are of shallow slope.
Adequately size the bridge to accommodate
anticipated stream flows, traffic volume, types
of traffic, and weight of loads. Seed and
mulch any disturbed areas outside the roadbed
to minimize erosion. Placement of bridges
that require work in the stream should be done
when the water level is low and as quickly as
possible. The use of portable bridges is
encouraged for small stream crossings.
Maintain bridges with periodic inspections and
removal of any debris that may hinder stream
flow.
9. Cross Drainage Culverts
Determine areas where cross drains are
needed, and adequately size culverts to
accommodate anticipated flow volumes. A 15-
inch culvert is the recommended minimum.
Table 19 contains the recommended spacing
for cross drainage culverts based on road
grade. Install culverts at least 12 inches below
the road surface, and on slopes in excess of 10
percent, install them at a 30-degree angle
downslope. Stabilize the shoulders of culverts
with stone. Establish a periodic inspection
schedule to maintain the culverts'
functionality.
10. Streambed Culverts
Adequately size culverts to accommodate
anticipated stream flows, and the volume and
types of traffic. The culverts should not
restrict the water flow or fish passage. Install
culverts so that both ends extend a foot beyond
the toe of me fill and the bottom is at or a
little below the streambed. Rocks should be
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
vvEPA
Table 19. Cross Drainage Culvert
Spacing
Road Grade
(percent)
0-2
3-5
6-10
11-15
16-20
21+
Spacing
(feet)
.500-300 "
250-180
167-140
136-140
125-120
100
placed under any downstream outfall to
prevent undercutting. Revegetate exposed
soils after the construction has been completed.
Maintain culverts by removing obstructions
and cleaning inlet and outlet areas.
11. Pesticides
Contact the Board of Pesticide Control prior to
application. Commercial pesticide applicators
must be licensed and certified by the Board.
12. Oils, Fuels, Coolants, and Hazardous
Wastes
Federal and state law forbids the disposal of
oils, fuels, coolants, or hazardous wastes by
pouring them into or onto the ground, or into
water bodies. Provide for the collection and
safe disposal of all hazardous wastes during
maintenance and repair. In the event of a
spill, contain the spill by blocking its flow to
surface waters, use hay or other absorbent
materials, and contact the Department of
Environmental Protection.
13. Protection of Permanent.Streams and
Water Bodies from Temperature
Increases or Siltation
Designate an area of vegetation to remain
undisturbed during harvesting to ensure canopy
shading of the stream and filtration of runoff.
The on-site planner should use best
professional judgment to determine the size of
the area required to provide adequate shading.
This decision should be based on site
conditions, such as stream width and depth,
depth of the canopy, and relative position of
the sun along the course of the stream.
14. Seeding and Revegetation
Seed or otherwise revegetate disturbed and
exposed areas where there is serious potential
for soil erosion and where conditions are less
favorable for the invasion of native vegetation,
such as large areas, infertile sites, and arid
sites. Select a seed mixture that will grow on
the site. A soils test may be required. Mulch
the seeded area to prevent erosion prior to
establishment of vegetation. Periodically
inspect the seeded area, and if necessary
reseed bare spots or use lime and fertilizer.
15. Slash
Plan harvesting activities to avoid slash
disposal in water bodies and to use slash for
erosion control. Use directional felling to
avoid placing slash in water bodies. If slash
does fall into a water body and must be
removed, use winches or other methods that
will not damage the filter strip or stream
banks. Use slash to control erosion and
sediment and to create surface for skid roads.
16. Temporary Sand-Salt Storage Areas
Strategically locate storage areas to minimize
the number required. Locate them on flat
areas close to the road where containment
features may be constructed to prevent runoff,
but away from water bodies and aquifer
recharge areas. Construct a berm of sufficient
height around the storage area to contain
precipitation that may collect in the storage
area. Use heavy plastic (or other impermeable
material) as a cover and a liner to minimize
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
penetration into ground water. Be careful to
not puncture the liner when removing salt or
sand. Upon abandoning the storage site,
properly dispose of the remaining contents and
liner, and regrade and revegetate the site.
17. Sediment Barriers
Sediment barriers are temporary structures that
may consist of filter fences or straw or hay
bales. The effectiveness of the sediment
barrier is completely dependent on its
installation. All sediment barriers need to be
firmly anchored and supported. Maintenance
of the structure is necessary, especially after
storms and runoff events. Sediment deposits
should be removed before one-half height of
the barrier is reached.
Straw/hay bales should be placed in a single
row, lengthwise on the contour with the ends
of the bales tightly abutting each other. Bales
should be bound and placed in a trench at least
4 inches deep. Filter barriers and silt fences
may be constructed using burlap or standard
synthetic filter fabric.
State Contact:
Ancyl S. thurston
Bureau of Forestry
(207) 287-2791
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Best Management Plans (1992);
Books Lesson Plan for BMPs (1992)
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
&EPA
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
MARYLAND
References: Maryland Department of Natural
Resources. 1992. Maryland's Guide to Forest
Operations and Best Management Practices;
and Maryland Department of the Environment
and the Maryland Forest Service. Soil and
Erosion Control Guidelines for Forest Harvest
Operations in Maryland.
Maryland state law and regulations require that
a sediment control plan be developed and
approved before undertaking any earth-
disturbing activity in excess of 5,000 square
feet. Harvests on private property require plan
approval by the local Soil Conservation
District, and harvests on state and federal land
require plan approval by the Maryland
Department of the Environment. The Standard
Plan for Forest Operations emphasizes
sediment'control at access points to the site; on
roads, trails, and landings; and adjacent to
watercourses. The Standard Plan requires that
uncut buffer zones (SMZ) be maintained on all
sides of perennial or intermittent streams,
rivers, lakes, ponds, bogs, and marshes.
Harvesting is allowed within the SMZ
provided that a Buffer Management Plan is
prepared by a licensed forester.
The Maryland ,Nontidal Wetlands Protection
Act and Regulations requires the
implementation of best management practices
when conducting forestry activities in nontidal
wetlands. These BMPs must be incorporated
into the Standard Plan prepared by a licensed
forester and must be submitted before
beginning the harvest.
The Chesapeake Bay Critical Area is the land
within 1,000 feet of the Chesapeake Bay and
its tidal waters or tidal wetlands. For 1 acre
or more of forest in the Critical Area to be cut
within any 1-year interval, a Timber Harvest
Plan must be prepared and approval granted by
the Maryland Forest Conservancy District
Board before any timber can be harvested.
The Maryland Department of Natural
Resources, Water Resources Administration, ;
requires that a Waterway Permit be obtained
prior to the construction of a stream crossing if
the drainage area above the crossing exceeds
400 acres or exceeds 100 acres for designated
trout streams.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Preharvest Planning
2. Truck Haul Roads
3. Skid Trails
4. Log Decks, Landings, and Portable
Sawmill Locations
5. Streamside Management Zones
6. Drainage Structures
7. Stream Crossings
8. Site Preparation
9. Revegetation of Bare Soil Areas
10. Wildfire Control and Reclamation
Forested Wetlands
11. Natural Regeneration
12. Preharvest Planning
13. Truck Haul Roads
14. Skid Trails
15. Log Decks
16. Streamside Management Zones
17. Cross Drainages
1. Preharvest Planning
The objective of preharvest planning is to
determine which BMPs are necessary to
protect water quality and how those BMPs will
be implemented. Preharvest planning may be
primarily verbal, but use of a written contract
is encouraged. Depending on the site and
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
vvEPA
nature of the harvest, the plan should include
any or all of the following: property
boundaries, streams and drainages, soil
restrictions, slope, environmental concerns,
approximation of main haul road and skid trail
locations, potential log landings, portable
sawmill locations, stream or drainage
crossings, and streamside management zones.
A site review should be performed to aid in
determining potential road locations, log
landings, streams, and wet areas. Preharvest
planning should include full consideration of
site preparation activities.
2. Truck Haul Roads
Truck haul roads should be located on side
slopes and away from SMZs and floodplain
soils. Roads should follow the contour as
much as possible with grades between 2 and
10 percent. Steeper gradients are permissible
for short distances not exceeding 200 feet. On
soils with severe erosion hazard, grades should
be 8 percent or less, but grades exceeding 12
percent for 150 feet or less may be acceptable
as long as measures are taken to prevent
erosion. Avoid constructing roads that require
high cut banks. Vertical road bank cuts should
normally not exceed 3 feet, but if the bank
cuts are more than 5 feet, they should be
sloped to at least a 2:1 ratio and seeded to
prevent erosion. Out-slope the road where
gradient and soil type will permit. Use cross
drainage on in-sloped or crowned roads to
reduce runoff travel distance.
Ensure good drainage with properly
constructed and spaced turnouts, broad-based
dips, rolling dips, culverts, and bridges. Use
bridges, culverts, or rock fords to cross
intermittent and perennial streams. Streams
should be crossed at right angles, and
structures should not impede stream flow or
fish passage. Fords may be used when stream
banks are stable, stream bottoms are hard, and
increased sedimentation will not occur. Install
water turnouts prior to a stream crossing to
direct runoff into undisturbed areas of the
SMZ. Turnouts will be constructed so water
will be dispersed and will not cut a channel
across the SMZ.
A routine inspection schedule should be
established to ensure proper road maintenance.
Roads should be free of obstructions, ruts, and
logging debris, and drainage structures should
be clear. Restrict traffic during unfavorable
conditions, such as saturated soil conditions.
Upon completion of silvicultural operations,
reshape the roadbed and seed all areas of bare
soil subject to erosion.
3. Skid Trails
Locate log landings first and plan major skid
trails to reduce erosion and sedimentation.
Locate skid trails outside SMZs and use a zig-
zag pattern climbing up-slope to avoid long,
steep grades. Gradients should not be steeper
than 15 percent, but steeper segments may be
necessary to avoid boundary lines or sensitive
areas. If steeper grades are required, practices
must be used to prevent gully erosion.
Avoid stream crossings when possible, but
when necessary use a bridge or culvert of
acceptable design to cross perennial and
intermittent streams and drainage ditches that
lead to natural drainages. Water crossings
should be at right angles. Do not skid logs
through streams or when soils are saturated.
Upon completion of skidding, install waterbars
at the recommended intervals. Establish
vegetative cover on skid trails greater than
5 percent slope or subject to erosion. Scatter
logging slash or mulch to supplement
waterbars and seeding.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
4, Log Decks, Landings, and Portable
Sawmill Locations
Locate sites for decks and portable sawmills
prior to road construction. Decks, yards, and
sawmill sites should be located at least 50 feet
outside the SMZ and should be on well-
drained soils with a slight slope (2-5 percent)
to enhance drainage. Provide for adequate
drainage on approach roads and skid trails,
such as a diversion ditch around the uphill side
of a deck to intercept water flow and direct it
away from the deck. Locate residue piles
outside wet weather drainages. When
servicing equipment, properly drain waste
products into containers and dispose of them in
accordance with proper solid waste disposal
procedures. Remove garbage and trash and
dispose of them properly. Decks, landings,
and portable sawmill locations should be
stabilized to prevent erosion and sediment loss
within the first 15 days of the next seeding
season following completion of harvesting
operations.
5. Streamside Management Zones
SMZs should have a minimum width of
50 feet on both sides of perennial streams and
around open water bodies. SMZs may be
desirable on intermittent streams for large
drainage areas where wildlife or water quality
is a major landowner concern. SMZs are also
buffers or buffer management areas. The
buffer widths presented in Table 20 are
required in the Compliance Agreement for the
Standard Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
for Forest Harvest Operations (Standard Plan).
They are determined by the formula:
Buffer width (feet) = 50 + (4 x slope %).
Partial harvesting of the SMZ is acceptable,
but a minimum of 60 percent crown cover or
60 square feet of basal area per acre must be
Table 20. Required Buffer Widths
Average Slope
(percent)
Width of Buffer
(feet)
0
1-10
11-20
21-30
31-40
41 +
50
75
100
150
200
250
evenly retained. Limit the use of logging
equipment by using dispersed skidding, cable
and winch, etc. The forest floor should
remain essentially undisturbed, and mineral
soilshould not be exposed. Remove all
harvested tree limbs and tops from the stream.
Fertilizer should not be used hi SMZs.
6. Drainage Structures
Broad-based dips can be used on truck haul
roads and heavily used skid trails that have a
gradient of 12 percent or less to provide cross
drainage. They should not be used for cross
draining spring seeps, intermittent streams, or
perennial streams. They should be installed
during road construction following the basic
clearing and grading phase. Spacing of broad-
based dips should be determined by the
following formula:
Spacing (feet)
400
slope %
100
Install an energy absorber, such as rip-rap, at
the outfall of the dip to dissipate water velocity
and minimize erosion potential. Surfacing the
dip with 3-inch crushed stone may be desirable
to prevent rutting.
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Rolling dips can be used on truck haul roads
and heavily used skid trails that have a
gradient of 15 percent or less to provide cross
drainage. They should not be used for cross
draining spring seeps, intermittent streams, or
perennial streams. Install them on roads
during construction following the basic
clearing and grading phase or on skid trails
after logging is completed. Recommended
spacing is provided in the guide.
Water bars should be used on roads and skid
trails that will not have vehicular traffic. If
there is the potential for vehicular traffic, use
rolling dips. Water bars should be constructed
at an angle of 30 to 45 degrees downslope,
with the uphill end of the bar extending
beyond the side ditch. The outflow end of the
bar should disperse runoff water onto
undisturbed forest floor. Recommended
spacing is provided in the guide.
Pipe culverts or open-top box culverts can be
used for any size operation where cross
drainage of storm water is needed on truck
haul roads or major skid trails. Pipe culverts
should be installed on a 2 to 4 percent grade,
skewed 15-30 degrees downgrade, and should
be long enough so both ends extend at least
1 foot beyond the side slope of fill material.
Box culverts should be installed flush or just
below the road surface and skewed 30-45
degrees downgrade. Spacing of culverts can
be determined using the formula for broad-
based dip spacing. The culvert outfall should
be protected to dissipate water velocity and
minimize erosion potential. The structure
should be maintained by removing sediment,
gravel, or logging debris.
7. Stream Crossings
When streams must be crossed by logging
equipment, use bridges, culverts, or rock
fords. Bridges should be constructed with
minimum disturbance to the stream bank,
channel, or adjacent SMZ. Pipe culverts
should be installed on a 2 to 5 percent grade
and should be long enough so both ends extend
at least 1 foot beyond the edge of the fill
material. Recommended culverts sizes are
based on the acres drained, soil density, and
slope. Erosion protection measures should be
installed at the culvert outlet to minimize
downslope erosion.. Rock fords or log fords
may be used if no practical alternative exists,
but the approaches and stream bottoms must be
hard enough so turbid water does not result.
8. Site Preparation
A Forest Management Plan should be prepared
prior to any site preparation. This plan will
consider the condition of the tract, adjacent
property, environmental concerns, water
quality, type of harvest, silvics of species to be
regenerated, and means of regeneration. Site
preparation activities should not be conducted
inSMZs.
Prescribed burning should be conducted when
soil moisture or weather conditions are
sufficient to prevent removal of all surface
duff and root mat. Construct firelines around
the perimeter of the bum area, and install
water bars and turnouts.
Mechanical site preparation should be
conducted in a manner that minimizes erosion
and water quality impacts. Schedule
operations during favorable soil moisture
conditions. Drum-chop up and down the slope
so the depressions created by the cleats and
chopper blades are on the contour, reducing
the potential for channeled flow. Disking
should be performed on the contour and on
slopes of less than 10 percent. When
performing shearing, piling, root raking, or
bulldozing, if a potential for erosion exists,
leave the tppsoil and root mat in place to
preserve site quality and minimize water
quality impact. Bulldozing should be limited
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to slopes of 20 percent or less, with a windrow
constructed approximately every 200 feet.
Windrows should be constructed along the
contour with a 20-foot opening for each 300
feet of windrow. Bedding should be
performed along the contour if the slope is
discernible. Machine planting, subsOiling, and
sod scalping should be performed on the
contour, and steep slopes should be hand
planted.
Application of pesticides and disposal of
containers should follow manufacturer's label
instructions, and measures should be
implemented to prevent pesticides from
reaching surface waters by direct application
or runoff. Application of fertilizers and
disposal of containers must adhere to
manufacturer's label instructions. Application
rates of fertilizers should be based on soil
analysis and developmental needs of the
desired tree species. Broadcast application of
fertilizers within SMZs is not recommended.
9. Revegetation of Bare Soil Areas
All disturbed areas with a grade of 30 percent
or greater must be seeded and mulched within
7 days of disturbance. Upon completion of
operations, bare soil areas with grades greater
than 10 percent and/or areas of bare soil with
erosion potential should be identified for
revegetation as the season permits. Lime and
fertilizer application rates should be
determined by soil type and acidity. Suggested
seeding mixtures, rates, and dates are provided
in the guide. Mulch should be applied
immediately after seeding highly credible
slopes or during adverse soil or weather
conditions.. Seeded areas should be protected
from grazing and unrestricted vehicle use.
10. Wildfire Control and Reclamation
When possible, do not plow firelines directly
into streams. If this is unavoidable, revegetate
as soon as possible. Stabilize and revegetate
firelines on grades greater than 5 percent. ,
Bare soil should be revegetated and eroding
gullies treated. Where timber has been killed,
reforestation needs should be assessed.
Forested Wetlands
There may be restrictions on some silvicultural
activities dependent upon legal interpretations
of wetlands and the conversion from wetland
species to other species. Discharge of fill
materials into waters of the United States from
ditching, or other activities whose purpose is ;
to convert forested wetlands to some other use
or where the flow or circulation of the waters
may be impaired or the reach reduced, is not
permitted under the silvicultural exemptions
under the Clean Water Act.
11. Natural Regeneration
Successful regeneration depends on
(1) recognizing the site type and its
characteristics; (2) evaluating the stocking and
species composition in relation to stand age
and site capability; (3) planning regeneration
options; and (4) using sound harvesting
methods. Natural hardwood regeneration uses
the normal cycle of wetlands species
succession. The harvesting system, which also
serves as the regeneration system, must be
chosen on the basis of stand and site conditions
and landowner objectives. Schedule harvest
during the dormant season to take advantage of
seed crops and to favor coppice regeneration.
Harvest the stand as completely as possible to
allow maximum sunlight, and leave stumps at
a height of less than 10 inches. Minimize soil
degradation from logging and site preparation,
especially during saturated soil conditions.
12. Preharvest Planning
Planning provides an organized method for an
efficient harvest operation while maintaining
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subsurface and surface water quality. The
wetlands preharvest plan should include:
upland preharvest planning considerations;
establishment of 50-foot-wide SMZs on each
side of the main channel or areas of open
water;
* location of log decks and main sources of
road-building materials;
* identification of main road system on the
uplands and development of a tentative road
system within the wetlands;
identification of special equipment required
for skidding and hauling or other harvesting
methods; and
identification of potential problems or. events
that may interrupt logging operations.
Schedule harvesting operations during extreme
dry periods or during times that enhance
regeneration. Use machinery with adequate
flotation devices to minimize the impact on .the
soil surface or degradation of site quality.
13. Truck Haul Roads
Construct road fills only when absolutely
necessary. Road fills should be no more than
2 feet above the natural ground level and
should be constructed parallel to the flow of
the main channel at least 200 feet from the
SMZ. Provide cross drains at a minimum
every 100 feet. Use gravel or crushed rock as
fill to provide for movement of ground water
and to serve as a base for the road. A layer of
poles, slabs, or logs laid side-by-side,
extending 3-4 feet on each side beyond the
width of the roadbed, can provide a base for
borrow or fill material. Thick layers of large
wood chips used as a roadbed distribute load
weight and limit the road's adverse impact.
Use planking or wooden mats to improve the
soil's ability to support traffic of heavy loads.
Cross streams, sloughs, or existing drainage
channels with properly sized culverts or
bridges.
The use of oversized or balloon tires is
encouraged to reduce compaction and rutting.
Move equipment to the uplands during periods
of potential flooding and wet periods. Upon
completion of harvesting operations, remove
temporary drainage structures and obstructions
from channels, stabilize roads to prevent
erosion and sediment loss, and restrict access.
14. Skid Trails
Plan major skid trails to minimize damage to
the residual stand, reduce erosion and
sedimentation, maintain surface and subsurface
water flow, and provide the most economical
method for skidding products. Decide the
location of log decks before planning skid trail
routes, and locate skid trails outside SMZs.
Use sandy sloughs as skid trails when
harvesting in peat and muck swamps. Avoid
stream crossings unless absolutely necessary,
but use a bridge or culvert of acceptable
design when a stream crossing is unavoidable.
Approaches to water crossings should be at or
near a right angle to the stream flow and of
sufficient length to allow logs to line up behind
the skidder. The use of wide-tracked
bulldozers and flotation tires on skidders is
recommended.
15. Log Decks
Locate log decks in advance of road
construction and on elevated lands of the
uplands or higher elevations within large
wetland units. Provide for adequate drainage
on approach roads and skid trails. Use gravel,
borrow materials, slab materials, mats, fabrics,
or other material to provide adequate drainage
and bearing capacity. Locate residue piles
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outside the wetlands or wet weather drainages.
Service equipment in such a way that
petroleum products and toxics are contained
and properly disposed o.f. Garbage, trash, and
inoperable equipment should be removed at the
end of the harvesting operation. Stabilize
landings within the first 15 days of the next
seeding season after completion of the harvest.
16. Streamside Management Zones
The practices recommended for SMZs in
wetlands are essentially the same as those for
SMZs in upland areas. The use of a grapple
skidder is recommended to create less
disturbance of the forest floor. Minimize the
number of access roads through the SMZ, and
stabilize all roads, cuts, and fills in the SMZ.
17. Cross Drainages
Cross drainages can be used for any size
operation where drainage is necessary to
reduce ponding. Pipe diameter should be a
minimum of 15 inches. Recommended
pipe/culvert sizes are provided in the guide
and are based on acres drained and soil type.
Multiple pipes may be used to meet the
minimum required diameter. Pipe slope
should be just below the streambed gradient,
with pipe alignment parallel to the stream
course. Pipe length should be long enough so
both ends extend a minimum of 1 foot beyond
the side slope of the roadbed, and erosion
protection should be provided at pipe outfalls.
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Soil Erosion and Sediment
Books Control Guidelines for Forest
Harvest Operations in
Maryland
Brochures Forest Harvest Access Practices
(Pocket Guide); How to Get
Logging Permits Approved in
Maryland's 23 Counties
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MASSACHUSETTS
Reference: Kittredge, D.B., Jr., and M.L.
Parker. 1989. Massachusetts Best
Management Practices: Timber Harvesting
Water Quality Handbook. University of
Massachusetts Cooperative Extension; and the
Forest Cutting Practices Act, Massachusetts
General Law Chapter 132.
The Massachusetts Forest Cutting Practices
Act applies to any commercial cutting of a
volume of wood products greater than 25,000
board feet or 50 cords on either public or
private forestland and requires landowners to
submit a form entitled "Notice of Intent to
Cut/Forest Cutting Plan" 10 days prior to the
commencement of harvesting operations. This
form covers information such as cutting
methods; plans for regeneration; roads and
skid trails to be designed, built, and
maintained to control erosion; filter strips
along water bodies; and buffer strips along
roads and major water bodies. Special forms
for wetlands .and steep slopes must be included
when appropriate.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Skid Road Erosion Control
2. Access Road Erosion Control
3. Erosion Control on Landings
4. Erosion Control for Stream Crossings
5. Filter Strips
6. Wetlands
7. Skid Trail and Landing Seeding
& Close of Operations
topography as much as possible and have
grades less than 10 percent with only short
distances of up to a 20 percent grade. On
slopes greater than 30 percent, use cut and fill
skid roads at a 5 percent grade separated by a
slope distance of at least 150 feet. In addition,
do not operate skidders on slopes of 60 percent
or greater.
Plan the location of skid roads prior to the
commencement of harvesting operations. If
skidding on steep slopes cannot be avoided,
skid in a downhill direction. Slash can be
used on skid roads to reduce rutting. Upon
completion of the harvesting operation,
minimize overland flow and erosion by
scattering brush or limbs across skid roads or
by revegetating skid roads, and by installing
water bars. The Forest Cutting Practices Act
requires that water bars be constructed to a
depth of 8 to 12 inches, with a 3 percent
outslope, and be spaced according to the
specifications in Table 21.
table 21. Required Water Bar Spacing
Road Grade
(percent)
1
2
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Distance Between
Water Bars
(feet)
400
245
125
78
58
47
40
35
32 .
29
1. Skid Road Erosion Control
The Forest Cutting Practices Act requires that
skid roads follow the contour of the
2. Access Road Erosion Control
The Forest Cutting Practices Act stipulates that
access roads from the landing to a highway
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must be graveled or mulched to prevent mud
from being tracked onto the highway.
Otherwise, use must be curtailed during wet
weather or mud must be promptly removed
from the highway. In addition, the Act
requires that adequate cross drainage structures
be provided and that runoff be discharged into
appropriate filter strips or hay bale
impoundments. Specifications for design and
spacing of broad-based dips, open-top culverts,
and pipe culverts are provided in the water
quality handbook. Design roads to take
advantage of natural dips and variations in
terrain. Crown road surfaces and avoid
constructing roads with grades greater than 5
percent.
3. Erosion Control on Landings
Locate landings on gently sloping, well-
drained soils and at least 100 feet from streams
or other water bodies. If landings have to be
closer than 100 feet, use hay bales for erosion
control and replace them if they become filled
with sediment. Prevent water from flowing
Into landings by appropriately placing water
diversions on skid trails and access roads that
lead to landings. After logging, smooth the
landing, seed, and mulch. The Forest Cutting
Practices Act requires that the soil be
stabilized and, if necessary, seeded to grass at
the end of operations.
4. Erosion Control for Stream Crossings
Avoid stream crossings, but when necessary,
locate crossings perpendicular to the stream
flow where the stream bottom is solid and the
approaches are level for at least 50 feet on
both sides of the channel. Temporary poled
fords may be used on small streams when
skidding small volumes of timber, but they
must be removed after 30 days. Bridges
should be constructed for crossings that
involve large streams, streams with poor
bottoms or steep banks, and major skid trails
that will be used for more than 30 days. A
reusable temporary skidder bridge can be made
of stout timbers and hauled from job to job.
Stabilize approaches during and immediately
after the operation.
5. Filter Strips
The Forest Cutting Practices Act stipulates that
a filter strip of 50 feet must be maintained
along the banks of all water bodies, that a
maximum of 50 percent of the basal area
within the strip can be cut at any one time,
and that a period of 3 years must elapse before
additional harvesting. Wider filter strips are
recommended on steeper slopes or in critical
areas. Specifications for filter strip widths are
provided in Table 22. Although harvesting is
permitted within the filter strip, logs should be
winched out of the strip, and disturbance
should be minimized. In addition, logging
equipment may not be operated on the floor of
a filter strip, except at stream crossings or on
pre-existing logging roads.
Table 22. Filter Strip Widths (feet)
Slope
(percent)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Filter Strip
Width
50
50
65
85
105
125
145
165
185
205
225
Critical
Areas
Width
50
90
130
170
210
250
290
330
370
410
450
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6. Wetlands
The Forest Cutting Practices Act stipulates that
a maximum of 50 percent of the basal area of
bordering vegetated wetlands can be cut at any
one time (in small patches) and that a waiting
period of 3 years must be observed before
another cut is made. The Act also specifies
that wetlands may not be harvested or crossed
except when the ground is frozen, dry, or
otherwise stable enough to support logging
equipment. Avoid or minimize access through
wetlands. Where a crossing is essential,
rehabilitate existing accessways if it will result
in less disturbance than constructing a new
accessway.
7. Skid Trail and Landing Seeding
Upon the completion of harvesting activities,
disturbed areas should be seeded. A table of
possible seed mixtures and their soil pH ranges
is provided in the water quality handbook.
Recommended seeding times are April 15 to
June 15 and August 1 to September 15.
Mulching with hay is recommended.
8. Close of Operations
At the close of timber operations, remove
temporary bridges, culverts, and fords.
Smooth and grade roads and landings, and
install appropriate water diversion devices.
Revegetate or stabilize disturbed areas as
necessary. Restrict access to the harvest site.
"When finished, notify the appropriate State
Service Forester to schedule an inspection, as
required by regulation. The Forest Cutting
Practices Act requires that all trash, such as
cans, papers, discarded tires and metal parts,
and other junk be removed.
State Contact:
James W. Soper
Dept, of Environmental Management
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MICHIGAN
Reference: Michigan Department of Natural
Resources. Non-point Source Pollution
Control on Forested Lands in Michigan -
DRAFT.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Roads
2. Timber Harvesting
3, Site Preparation and Reforestation
4. Wildfires
1. Roads
The entire road system should be designed
before any road construction begins. Use
aerial photographs, topographic maps, and soil
surveys in_addition to site reconnaissance to
plan the road system. Prepare a map of the
area to be harvested that displays the proposed
locations of roads, landings, and major skid
trails.
"Where possible, construct roads on side hills
for good cross drainage, but avoid seeps,
springs, and swampy areas. Road grades
should be between 2 and 10 percent, and long
steep grades or level grades should be avoided.
Grades of up to 15 to 20 percent are
acceptable for short distances, but at least 300
feet of road above and below should have less
than a 10 percent grade. Plan for the
installation of road drainage structures. Locate
roads a minimum distance of 50 feet or more
from any free-flowing watercourse. Retain
adequate buffer strips between roads and
perennial and intermittent streams. Buffer
strip widths depend on the slope between the
road and stream. Minimize soil disturbance in
the buffer area.
Roads should follow the contour as much as
possible with grades between 2 and 10 percent.
Steeper grades, not exceeding 15 percent, are
permissible for distances up to 200 feet. On
soils with severe erosion hazard, grades should
be 8 percent or less, but grades not exceeding
12 percent for 150 feet are acceptable.
Provide a minimum width of 10 to 14 feet for
single track roads. Cross streams
perpendicular to the stream channel and do not
impede stream flow. Road gradients
approaching water crossings should be changed
to disperse water at least 50 feet from the
watercourse.
Out-slope the entire width of the road where
gradient permits. In-slppe the road toward the ,
bank on sharp turns for road gradients 15
percent or greater, and on clay and/or slippery
soils. On in-sloped roads, install cross
drainage structures 25 feet up-grade on short
stretches of road where gradients exceed
10 percent. Broad-based dips can be used on
haul roads with gradients less than 12 percent.
Use 20-foot-long, 3 percent reverse grade
dips. Water bars should be used to divert
water from retired haul roads. Spacing tables
are provided in the manual for broad-based
dips and water bars. Culverts should be
installed so both ends extend 2 feet beyond the
side slope for stream crossings and 1 foot
beyond for road cross drainage. Culverts used
as stream crossings should be installed at the
same slope as the stream channel; cross
drainage culverts should be sloped 2 to 4
percent. Place energy dissipators (e.g., rip-
rap, large stones) at cross-drainage culvert
outlets.
When operations cease for a period of several
years, roads should be retired and exposed soil
areas stabilized and revegetated. Smooth and
reshape all road and landing surfaces.
Remove culverts and replace with water bars
or ditches. If culverts are covered by more
than 2 feet of fill, then leave them in place and
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continue maintenance. Remove all temporary
stream crossings, and seed and mulch critical
areas near streams.
Locate log landings outside buffer strips.
Landings should have a slight slope and should
be on well-drained soils. Provide adequate
drainage on approach roads and trails so that
surface water drainage does not enter the
landing area. Service equipment so that oil,
iiiel, and other lubricants are drained into
containers and properly disposed of:
Revegetate log landings immediately following
completion of operations.
Locate skid trails outside the streamside buffer
area. Skid trails should not be steeper than
15 percent, with the exception of short, steep
segments that do not exceed 20 percent. Logs
should not be skidded through stream
channels. When crossing watercourses, use a
bridge or culvert of acceptable design placed
perpendicular to the stream flow. Water bars
should be installed on skid trails upon
completion of operations; specifications for
Installation are provided.
2. limber Harvesting
Preharvest plans should include a map
identifying property boundaries, streams and
drainages, soils, slope, critical environmental
concerns, main haul road and skid trail
locations, log landings, stream or drainage
crossings, and buffer strips.
Buffer strips must be maintained along all
perennial and intermittent streams, lakes, and
ponds. The minimum buffer strip width is
50 feet, with the width increasing by 15 to 20
feet for each slope increase of 10 percent. A
table with recommended buffer strip widths is
provided in the manual. Leave the forest floor
undisturbed in the buffer area. Modify
harvesting activities to retain a stable area in
the buffer and maintain desired shading of
streams. Locate haul roads, landings, and
equipment storage and maintenance sites
outside the buffer. Do not operate equipment
in the buffer when the soil is saturated.
Remove harvested tree limbs and tops from
streams.
Provide proper waste receptacles in
maintenance areas, and dispose of waste
properly. Locate fueling areas away from
water bodies at locations where spills can be
contained and treated properly. Designate
specific areas for lubricant draining, and
provide proper collection and storage.
Maintenance vehicles should possess
equipment to collect and store lubricants
drained during repair activities.
3. Site Preparation and Reforestation
Use site preparation techniques that cause
minimum soil disturbance. Provide adequate,
buffer strips around site preparation activities.
Avoid operations during periods of saturated
soil conditions. Avoid concentrating residues
from shearing and raking operations in wetland
areas. Locate windrows outside buffers and
pile to minimize their interference with natural
drainage. Avoid shearing and raking on
organic soils except under frozen soil
conditions. Limit disking to slopes of less
than 10 percent and follow land contours.
Patch or row scarification are preferred
mechanical site preparation methods for
artificial regeneration. Patch or row
scarification should follow land contours as
long as operator safety is maintained. Drum
chopping should be conducted up and down
the slope so that the blade depressions are on
the contour.
Conduct prescribed burning with trained crews
and operate under proper humidity,
temperature, and wind conditions. Plan and
construct firelines prior to burning, and
construct water bars where slopes are greater
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than 2 percent. Provide adequate buffer strips
if a burn is adjacent to perennial watercourses,
and maintain erosion control structures after a
burn.
Apply chemicals according to manufacturer's
instructions, and dispose of containers and
residues properly. Do not apply pesticides
when there is danger of drift, when honeybees
or other pollinating insects are visiting plants,
or in ways that may contaminate water. Do
not clean spray equipment or dump excess
spray material near bodies of water. Dispose
of empty pesticide containers promptly and
properly.
4. Wildfires
Hie loss of vegetative cover from wildfires
may leave soil susceptible to erosion. Bare
areas adjacent to stream banks should receive
Oie highest priority for revegetation. Firelines
should be revegetated and stabilized. Water
bars should be installed in fire lines at spacing
provided.
State Contact:
Edward E. Eckart
Department of Natural Resources
(517) 335-3351
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MINNESOTA
Reference: Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources/Division of Forestry, Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency, and other
organizations. 1989. Water Quality in Forest
Management: Best Management Practices in
Minnesota.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1
I 1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Fuel, Lubricant, and Equipment
Management.
Filter Strips
Forest Roads
a. Design
b. Construction
c. Maintenance
Timber Harvesting
Mechanical Site Preparation
Pesticide Use
Prescribed Burning
1. Fuel, Lubricant, and Equipment
Management
Precautions are needed to prevent water
contamination when using fuels, lubricants,
and other materials associated with heavy
equipment operation. Proper equipment
maintenance is essential to protecting water
resources from petroleum products
contamination. Designate specific areas for
fueling and draining lubricants from
equipment. These locations should be sited
where spills can be contained and properly
treated, and away from water. Properly store,
collect, and dispose of all wastes. Provide
maintenance vehicles with the equipment
necessary to collect and store lubricants
drained during repair activities.
2. Filter Strips
Establish adequate filter strips around
perennial and intermittent streams, lakes, and
ponds. Forest management activities in filter
strips should maintain the integrity of the filter
strip and should not expose soils. Filter strip
widths vary depending on the slope of the land
between the road and stream. Recommended
widths are 25 feet for 0-1 percent slopes,
30 50 feet for 2-10 percent slopes, 50-70 feet
for 11-20 percent slopes, 70-110 feet for
21-40 percent slopes, and 110-170 feet for
41-70 percent slopes.
3.a. Forest Road Design
The access system should be planned to
minimize impacts to water quality. Determine
whether existing roads need to be improved or
relocated. Minimize the total road mileage,
number of stream crossings, and amount of
ground disturbance. Locate roads away from
watercourses and water bodies, outside filter
strips, and above the ordinary high water
mark. Design roads to have a slight grade of
1-2 percent, and avoid grades in excess of
10-12 percent. A maximum grade of 5
percent is recommended for credible soils.
Design roads to minimize erosion by providing
maximum cross drainage and minimum down-
road flow. Spacing for drainage structures is
provided.
Permanent stream crossings are recommended
when long-term use is expected or when the
crossing will be used frequently over the short
term. Design culverts and bridges to minimize
impacts on water quality, and size them to
accommodate the 25- to 50-year flood. Fords
should be used only where the subgrade is
predominately rock and when water is not
expected to be present during any of the road
use cycles. Streams should be crossed at a
right angle where the approaches are fairly
level, the streambed and banks are composed
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Current NPS Control Practices for Forestry
v>EPA
of firm cohesive soils or rock, and the natural
stream channel will be only slightly disturbed
by construction. Crossings should not impede
fish passage.
For winter roads, consider using culverts or
bridges to cross definite drainages where
winter roads are to be used for 5 years or
more. Temporary crossings must have proper
drainage structures so that there will not be an
increase in the natural sediment load.
Construct winter road crossings on level
terrain. "Where slopes exceed 3 percent, do
not place organic materials in winter crossings,
and remove temporary winter crossings prior
to breakup.
3.b. Forest Road Construction
During the clearing phase of road construction,
do not impede water flow or increase
sedimentation of waters through improper
location of clearing debris. Shape in-slopes
and backslopes to be !!£:! or flatter to
increase stability. Compact roadbed material
to reduce water infiltration, to increase the
load-bearing capacity, and to minimize the
settling of fill material. Use filter materials or
other subgrade support in areas of peat or bog
to minimize siltation. Evaluate alternatives to
road surfacing, but grades with significant
erosion potential should be surfaced.
During construction, provide adequate
drainage of road grades and subsurface to help
stabilize areas where slope instability is
encountered. Install dips, water bars, and
cross drainage where needed on all temporary
roads. Use open-top culverts to remove
surface water from temporary or occasional-
use roads. Do not drain surface water diverted
from roads directly into open water; drain it
into a filter strip or a vegetative draw. Install
drainage structures on streams as soon as
feasible. These drainage structures should
accommodate the 25- to 50-year flood.
Stabilize bare soil areas to reduce erosion and
install siltation barriers. Install silt fences
during construction in sites where roads and
water have close contact for long periods.
3.c. Forest Road Maintenance
Clean debris and windfalls from culverts,
ditches, dips, and other, structures prior to
periods of peak flow. Keep traffic off roads
during wet periods and spring breakup. Place
road barriers and signs when permanently
closing roads.
For active roads, fill in ruts and holes that
develop during road use. Grade the road
surface periodically; minimize berms along the
edge of the road. Apply dust control agents in
a manner that will minimize entry of these
compounds into water. For inactive roads,
ensure that the road remains in stable condition
by occasionally blading or seeding the surface.
Maintain drainage structures and place water
bars, where necessary, before roads are
abandoned. Water bar spacing
recommendations are provided.
4. Timber Harvesting
Timber harvesting activities should follow a
plan that incorporates water quality protection
into all operations. When developing a plan
for timber harvesting, perform an "on-the-
ground" evaluation in addition to using aerial
photographs, topographic maps, and soil
surveys. The plan should consider the location
of surface water and wetlands; the location of
stream crossings; the number and location of
landings, roads, and skid trails; and the
compatibility of the timing of harvesting
operations with soil, topography, and weather
conditions. Limit site disturbance by
accomplishing as many management objectives
as possible through a single timber harvesting
operation. Determine the timber sale size and
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
duration, and the anticipated season and
method of harvest.
Minimize landing size and locate landings on
leyel or gently sloping, stable ground away
from low or poorly drained areas, open water
wetlands, and filter strips. If possible, avoid
locating landings on open water wetlands.
landings may be placed on other wetlands
during frozen conditions. Debris from upland
landing construction areas should be deposited
above the ordinary high water mark. Install
erosion control measures as necessary.
i
Avoid locating skid trails in filter strips and
minimize long, straight skid trail stretches.
Install bridges, culverts, etc. to prevent
repeated soil and streambank disturbance.
Drainage specifications can be found in the
Forest Roads section.
Conduct harvesting operations in a manner that
protects water quality. Avoid felling timber
into nonforested wetlands, and prevent logging
residue from entering all streams, lakes, and
wetlands, except where residue placement is
specifically prescribed for fish or wildlife
habitat. Winch logs off steep slopes where
conventional skidding would result in erosion
and sedimentation. Seed, fill in ruts, and
install water bars and erosion barriers where
appropriate. Restore watercourses to
approximate their natural condition, and
periodically inspect erosion barriers.
5. Mechanical Site Preparation
Evaluate the potential water quality impacts
prior to implementing site preparation
operations. Site preparation practices should
be related to specific site characteristics, such
as soil, topography, vegetation, access,
distance to surface waters, and depth to ground
water. Minimize site disturbance and provide
adequate filter strips. Avoid operations during
periods of saturated soil conditions. Manage
vegetation adjacent to designated trout streams
to minimize increases in stream temperature.
Avoid concentrating residues from shearing
and raking operations in wetland areas, and
design shearing and raking practices to prevent
direct runoff of sediment into water. Locate
windrows and piles to minimize interference
with natural drainage patterns, and locate
windrows outside filter strips. Avoid disking
in areas where it will increase direct runoff of
sediment into water, and follow land contours.
Use patch or row scarification as the preferred
site preparation method for artificial
regeneration, and follow land contours.
Consider alternatives to mechanical site
preparation, such as chemical treatments,
prescribed burning, and hand scarification
when conducting operations on steep slopes or
highly credible soils.
6. Pesticide Use
Planning is the essential first step in reducing
pest problems while maintaining water quality.
Consider using Integrated Pest Management
(IPM) strategies as part of an overall program
to control pest problems. When selecting a
pesticide, consideration should be given to site
factors, pesticide characteristics, application
conditions, delivery systems, and application
techniques. Choose products suitable for use
on target species, and carefully follow all label
directions. Employ only licensed pesticide
applicators. Pesticides with high affinities for
adsorption (koc values greater than 1,000) are
recommended for the following soil
characteristics: coarse textures, low organic
matter (less than 2 percent), shallow depth to
ground water, and poor drainage.
Properly transport, store, mix and load, and
apply pesticides. Secure containers properly, to
prevent movement during transport. Store
pesticides in their original containers with
labels intact, and at locations that minimize the
possibility of impacts on water quality in case
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
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accidents or fires occur. Do not mix
pesticides near wells or open surface waters,
and use the lowest rate of pesticide possible to
achieve the desired level of pest control. Do
not fill pesticide mixing or application
equipment directly from surface water or a
public water supply unless the equipment
contains proper and functioning anti-
backsiphoning mechanisms. Never apply
pesticides directly to water or when there is a
likelihood of significant drift, and avoid the
use of broadcast application methods within
filter strips. Clean equipment where pesticide
residues will not enter streams, lakes, or
ponds, and clean all mixing and loading
equipment thoroughly. Do not clean pesticide
application equipment hi surface waters.
Properly dispose of pesticide wastes and
containers in accordance with state laws.
Triple rinse all empty plastic and metal
pesticides containers, and add rinse water to
spray solution. Pesticide characteristic tables
are provided.
7. Prescribed Burning
Carefully plan burning according to weather,
time of year, soil, topography, and fuel
conditions. Use adequately trained and
experienced personnel. Locate firelines on the
contour and avoid straight uphill-downhill
placement. Construct firelines to the minimum
depth and width necessary to control the fire.
Use natural or in-place fire barriers and
establish filters strips. Minimum filter strip
widths should be 50 to 100 feet. Maintain
erosion control measures, as needed, on
firelines. Close water wells excavated for.
wildfire suppression.
Consider use of a retardant in place of plowed
firelines where fireline construction will result
in unacceptable erosion. Prevent or minimize
runoff of retardant chemicals into water by
keeping filter strip areas off-limits to retardant
use. Do not clean retardant application
equipment in lakes or streams, and do not
allow fuel or oil from pumper units to drain or
drip into lakes or streams.
State Contact:
Michael J. Phillips
Department of Natural Resources
(612) 297-4924
Other Available State Information
Brochures Best Management Practices for
Water Quality in Urban,
Agricultural and Forestry
Applications; Water Related
Land Use Programs:
Shoreland Management, Wild
and Scenic Rivers, Floodplain
Management
Videos Best Management Practices in
Minnesota Forestry
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Current NPS Control Practices for Forestry
MISSISSIPPI
Reference: Mississippi Forestry Association,
; Environmental Affairs Committee. 1989.
Mississippi's Best Management Practices
Handbook.
I BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Woodland Access Roads and Trails
2. Site Preparation
3. Tree Planting
4. Forest Harvesting
5. Revegetation of Critical Forest Areas
6. Filter Strips
1. Woodland Access Roads and Trails
Locate roads and trails to serve the intended
purpose while facilitating adequate control of
surface waters and sedimentation. Avoid
hazardous areas and problem soils, and locate
roads and trails where side drainage can be
attained. Roads, trails, and landings located
above a watercourse should have a filter strip
between the disturbed area and the stream. Do
not locate roads in filter strips.
Avoid fiat, no-grade roads, and design road
grades to be between 2 and 10 percent. Steep
grades above 10 percent can be used for short
distances, but there should be at least 300 feet
above and below the steep area in which a
grade of 10 percent or less is maintained.
Avoid long steep grades to reduce the total
number of drainage structures needed. Road
surfaces should be a minimum width of
10 feet, but wide enough to enhance surface
drying during wet periods. Brush and trees
should be removed from the right-of-way to a
width of 14 to 16 feet.
Construct cut-and-fill slopes at the normal
angle of repose, and do not make them steeper
than 1:1 unless properly designed retaining
walls are used. Vertical banks may be used
without retaining walls if the soil is stable and
water control structures are adequate.
Material from the grubbing or clearing
operation can be used to construct brush
barriers to filter runoff from disturbed areas.
Install surface water control structures during
construction. Use a broad-based drainage
ditch as a water catchment and drainage
channel. It requires an outslope of
approximately 3 percent and a minimum width
of 20 feet. Spacing is determined by the
following formula:
Spacing (feet)
400
slope %
100
Use bridges over larger streams where heavy
or long-term traffic is expected. Crossing
structures on perennial streams should not
impede fish passage. The size of culverts and
bridges should be designed on a 5-year, 24-
hour frequency storm as a minimum for
permanent access roads, and on a 2-year, 24-
hour storm frequency for temporary access
roads. Tables are provided to determine the
required cross-sectional area. Open log
culverts are not recommended for permanent
roads, but are acceptable on temporary roads.
Pipe culverts can be used on permanent access
roads. Install erosion protection measures at
pipe outfalls. Fords should be used only if
streambeds are solid and if the installation of
bridges and culverts will accelerate soil
movement. Fords should not be used in
critical water areas. Out-sloping the entire
width of the road toward the fill bank reduces
the number of drainage structures and is an
effective way to remove excess water if the
soil type is suitable.
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^When planning the skid trail system, locate
iaiKj'iug areas first and design skid trails with
,gr;i*x«s less than 15 percent. Avoid
streambeds, rocky places, adverse slopes, and
long, steep grades. When crossing streams,
construct small bridges or install culverts
perpendicular to streamflow.
Upon completion of harvesting operations,
remove temporary drainage structures and
dean all remaining drainage structures and
ditches. Culverts should be maintained or
replaced with waterbeds or ditches. Install
water bars and scatter slash on skid trails. A
recommended water bar spacing table is
provided in the manual. Smooth and reshape
roads and trails for seeding, and revegetate
cuts, fills, ditches, and other disturbed areas.
Restrict access with barriers, gates, or other
structures.
2. Site Preparation
Prescribed burning can be used before planting
or seeding to reduce logging residues and
undesirable trees and vegetation. Fire lines
should be located on the contour at a grade of
less than 10 percent if possible. Grades,
ditches, and water bars should be planned and
installed when the line is being constructed. A
prescribed bum line should never be built
down a slope in a shallow natural gully.
Leave a filter strip between fire lines and
water bodies. Prevent extremely hot burns. If
erosion occurs on the burned area, revegetate
the area.
Conduct mechanical site preparation to
minimize erosion and sedimentation and
prevent accumulation of debris in
watercourses. Limit the degree of site
preparation to the amount necessary to achieve
a well-stocked stand of the desired species.
Mechanical site preparation should be avoided
on steep slopes with extremely credible soils.
The use of drum choppers and disks is
recommended because there is less disturbance
of the topsoil and litter than when bulldozing,
raking, cr binding. Construct windrows on Hie
contour and provide numerous breaks to
prevent damming of water behind the
windrow. Use filter strips to keep sediment .
from site-prepared areas out of streams.
Consider the use of chemicals on highly
credible soils. Pesticide use should be . ,
carefully planned to prevent contamination of
watercourses and damage to aquatic life.
Always use pesticides in accordance with label
instructions, and adhere to all federal and state
policies and regulations governing pesticide
use. Choose products that are registered for
the intended use. All pesticides should be
properly transported and stored. Mix
pesticides in locations far away from springs,
streams, and lakes to prevent contamination.
Apply them when atmospheric conditions will
not contribute to atmospheric or water
pollution through pesticide drift or
volatilization. Never apply pesticides directly
to water (except when it is approved).
Maintain buffer strips to avoid drifts or
accidental direct application of chemicals to
water bodies. Table 23 contains recommended
buffer widths based on application techniques.
Clean equipment away from streams and other
water sources. Dispose of excess pesticides
and containers in accordance with the
manufacturer's label instructions.
Table 23. Recommended Buffer Widths
Application Method Width (feet)
Aerial
Ground Vehicle
Hand Spray
Hand Dispersion
100
50
25
15
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vvEPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
3. Tree Planting
Mechanical tree planting may cause short-term
erosion problems. To avoid ditch formation,
planting should be conducted along the
contour. Hand planting causes little or no
erosion.
4. Forest Harvesting
During timber harvesting, skidder logging
should be performed along the contour and
yarding should be conducted uphill. Minimize
the number of trips along the same skid trail.
Filter strips should be maintained between
heavily cut areas and watercourses. All tops
and other logging matter falling into streams
must be removed. When servicing equipment,
drain all petroleum products and radiator water
into containers, and dispose of them according
to label instructions.
Locate landings and concentration yards in a
manner that minimizes erosion and subsequent
siltation problems. Leave adequate filter strips
between landings and watercourses. Landings
and yards should have a slight slope to ensure
good drainage. Provide for adequate drainage
on approach roads, and install diversion
ditches around the uphill side of landings to
prevent drainage water from entering the
landing area and causing muddy, wet
conditions. Stabilize landings and yards
immediately following completion of
operations by mulching and/or revegetating.
Portable sawmills should be located on
reasonably level sites, and the sawdust piles
should be deposited on level ground at least
300 feet from streams.
5. Revegetation of Critical Forest Areas
i
Road surfaces should be smoothed and shaped .
to permit the use of conventional equipment
for seedbed preparation, seeding, mulch
application, anchoring, and maintenance. To
establish vegetation, the suggested fertilizer
rate is 400 pounds of 10-10-10 per acre and
the suggested application rate of lime is 2 tons
per acre. Loosen the top layer of soil, and
incorporate lime and fertilizer into the top 3 to
4 inches. Select seeding mixtures adapted to
the soil and site conditions. Maximum seeding
'depth should be V* inch on clayey soils and
V6 inch on sandy soils. When seeding is
conducted on highly credible soils, under
adverse soil conditions, or on less-than-pptimal
seeding dates, mulch material should be
applied immediately. Protect the seeding area
from grazing, fire, insects, vehicles, traffic,
etc. Fertilize plants at one-half the
establishment rate when needed to maintain
plant vigor. Conduct frequent inspections.
SCS guidelines for grass or small grain cover
for disturbed sites are provided, as well as
instructions on how to calculate seed and
fertilizer needs for roads and disturbed areas.
6. Filter Strips
Maintain a filter strip between watercourses
and roads, trails, and landings. Runoff from
these areas should not be channeled into the
strip, but should be dispersed across it.
Consider the following factors when
determining filter strip width.
« The amount and rate of runoff that will pass
through the strip, which are determined by:
(1) the use and treatment above the strip;
(2) the slope of land above the strip;
(3) the length of slope above the strip; and
(4) the credibility of soil above the strip.
The physical properties of the filter strip
itself, which are determined by:
(1) the slope of the land in the strip;
(2) the type of vegetation in the strip; and
(3) the degree of maintenance the strip will
receive.
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vvEPA
A general guide is included that recommends
filter strip widths based on slope and soil
r isinn hazard rating. Avoid mechanical site
preparation, prescribed burning, and the use of
chemicals in filter strips. When understory is
absent, do not remove more than 50 percent of
the overstory.
State Contact:
Everard Baker
Mississippi Forestry Commission
(601) 359-2827
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Mississippi's Best Management
Books Practices for Wetlands;
Silvicultural Best Management
Practices for MS
"videos Best Management Practices
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
MISSOURI
Reference: Missouri Department of
Conservation. 1990. Missouri Watershed
Protection Practices: Management Guidelines
for Maintaining Forested Watershed to Protect
Streams,
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Streamside Zones
2. Stream Crossings
3. Access Roads
4. Timber Harvesting
5. Site Preparation
6. Reforestation
7. Prescribed Burning
8. Chemical Treatment (pesticides
and fertilizers)
1. Streamside Zones
The streamside management zones are divided
into two parts, primary and secondary filter .
strips. The primary filter strip is a 25-foot-
wide area along each side of the watercourse
measured from the top of the stream bank to
the stream channel. The width of the
secondary filter strip depends on the slope of
the surrounding land and is added to the width
of the primary filter strip. Table 24 presents
the filter strip widths recommended to reduce
sedimentation of streams.
>
In primary.filter strips, limit cutting to no
more than 25 percent of the trees or 20 to 30
square feet of basal area. The use of wheeled
or tracked vehicles should be avoided, and
timber should be cabled out of primary filter
strips. Felled trees and tops should be
removed from watercourses. Direct seeding,
hand planting, or mechanical planting practices
may be conducted in the primary filter strip.
Avoid locating of roads (except at designated
stream crossings), log landings, log decks, and
portable sawmills in the SMZ. Prescribed
burning, use of pesticides, and grazing of
animals should be avoided in the primary filter
strip.
The recommendations for activities within the
secondary filter strip are similar, although less
restrictive, than those established for the
primary filter strip. Careful use of wheeled or
tracked vehicles is permitted within the
secondary filter strip. Gully leveling should
be avoided unless immediately seeded and
mulched.
2. Stream Crossings
Vehicle traffic across streams should be
avoided whenever possible. Advance planning
will reduce or eliminate the number of stream
crossings needed. Install properly sized
culyerts where permanent roads cross streams.
A table is provided in the manual that
recommends culvert pipe sizes. Locate fords
perpendicular to the stream channel and
construct only where the stream bottom is hard
and relatively level. All approaches to streams
should be made from grades of 3 percent or
less. Soil around culverts, bridges, and fords
should be stabilized with coarse rock or large
stones. Temporary crossings made of logs or
brush should be avoided, as well as any
practice that alters the stream flow.
3. Access Roads
The location of access roads should be planned
in advance to minimize their number and
slope. Construction of roads should provide
for adequate water drainage from the road.
The slope of the road should be kept gradual
by constructing the road along the contour.
Roads should be located above the floodplain
and wet areas. Avoid road construction within
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
EFA
Table 24. Recommended Primary and Secondary Filter Strip Widths
Slope
(percent)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
Primary filter strip
(feet)
25
25
25
25
25
25
25
Secondary filter
Strip (feet)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
Total filter strip width
(feet)
25
45
65
85
105
125
145
SMZs. Road grades should be kept to
8 percent or less, except where the terrain
requires short, steep grades. The roadbed on
temporary roads should be 12 to 14 feet wide.
Road should be surfaced with gravel where
necessary to support heavy equipment and
prevent erosion. Remove shade trees from
along roadsides to allow for road drying.
Cleared debris may be placed on the lower
side of fill slopes to prevent erosion. Broad-
based dips and water turnouts should be used
to divert water from road surfaces. Tables and
figures are provided in the manual for the
construction and spacing of broad-based dips,
water turnouts, and water bars. Temporary
access roads should be retired by reshaping,
seeding, and mulching, in combination with
water bars.
4. Timber Harvesting
Log landings should be located on stable,
adequately drained soils and oriented so that
skidding is directed away from streams.
Disposal of logging debris in streams or water
bodies should be avoided. Log landings
should be no larger than necessary to handle
loading activities. Portable sawmills should be
located away from streams or other water
bodies. Provisions should be made for the
disposal of wastes and garbage.
5. Site Preparation
Avoid mechanical site preparation that exposes
the soil on steep slopes. Bulldozing should
disturb as little soil as possible. Windrows
should be constructed along the contour, with
breaks left for fire control. Exposed soils
should be seeded with herbaceous vegetation
selected to quickly establish ground cover.
Filter strips should be left along ^watercourses
to trap sediment.
6. Reforestation
Do not use mechanical seedling planters on
steep slopes; plant tree seedlings by hand on
steep slopes. Avoid site preparation in SMZs.
7. Prescribed Burning
Prescribed burning should be carefully planned
and executed while observing weather
conditions. Prior to burning, locate fire
breaks along the contour. When fire breaks
are at slopes greater than 5 percent, water bars
should be used at frequent intervals to slow
and disperse water.
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Current NFS Control Practices for .Forestry
8. Chemical Treatment
Use chemicals, dispose of containers, and
clean equipment in accordance with the
manufacturer's label instructions. Pesticide
use should be avoided in the primary filter
strip, and only pesticides approved for water
use may be applied in secondary filter strips.
State Contact:
Frank Hershey
Forest Stewardship Coordinator
Dept. of Conservation
(314) 75W115
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&EPA
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
MONTANA
Reference: Logan, B., and B. Clinch. 1991.
Montana Forestry Best Management
Practices: Forest Stewardship Guidelines for
Water Quality. Montana Department of State
Lands.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Roads
2. Streamside Management
3. Timber Harvesting
4. Slash Treatment and Site Preparation
5. Winter Activities
6. Hazardous Substances
7. Stream Crossings
1. Roads
Roads should be properly designed to prevent
water quality problems from construction.
Use existing roads when practical, unless such
roads would cause an erosion hazard. Fit the
road to the existing topography by locating the
roads on the natural contour. Avoid
constructing long, steep roads. Minimize the
number of stream crossings, but when
crossings are necessary, select stable
streambeds. Locate roads a safe distance from
streams when the road will run parallel to the
stream. (A more detailed discussion is
presented in the streamside management
section.)
Avoid earth-moving activities when the soils
are excessively wet and do not significantly
disturb roadside vegetation. Stabilize credible
soils by seeding, compacting, rip-rapping,
benching, mulching, or other suitable means
prior to fall or spring runoff. Refrain from
using woody debris in fill portions of the road
prism, and balance cuts and fills when
possible. Pile slash and woody debris in a
row parallel to the road on potentially credible
slopes.
Provide adequate drainage from road surfaces
by using put-sloped or crowned roads,
drainage dips, or in-sloped roads with ditches
and cross drains. For in-sloped roads, plan
ditch gradients between two and eight percent.
Figures are provided for drainage techniques.
Cross drains, culverts, water bars, dips, and
other drainage structures should not discharge
onto credible soils. Road drainage should be
routed through SMZs, filtration fields, or other
sediment settling structures. Periodically
inspect and maintain erosion control structures.
Debris should be cleared from all drainage
outlets. Upon completion of silvicultural
activities, road surfaces should be crowned,
outsloped, insloped, or water barred.
2. Streamside Management
A 50-foot-wide strip on both sides of a stream
is the mandated minimum for an SMZ. The
1991 Streamside Management Act prohibits the
following activities in SMZs:
broadcast burning;
the operation of wheeled or tracked
equipment, except on established roads;
clearcutting;
road construction, except at stream or
wetland crossings;
the handling, storage, application, or
disposal of hazardous or toxic materials in a
manner that pollutes streams, lakes, or
wetlands or that may cause damage or injury
to humans, lands, animals, or plants;
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
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side-castix^ of road material into a stream,
wetlaud, .x watercourse; and
depositing slash into streams or other water
bodies.
Directionally fell trees away from streams.
Suspend the lead end of logs during skidding
whenever possible, and use cables to end line
logs out of SMZs and wetlands when ground
skidding systems are employed. Logs should
be fully suspended when skyline skidding
across a stream. Consider hand-scalping and
planting within the SMZ.
3. Timber Harvesting
Use the logging system that best fits the
topography, soil type, and season. Use
economically feasible yarding systems that will
minimize road densities. Design and locate
skid trails and skidding operations to minimize
soil disturbances. Limit the size and number
of log landings. Avoid landing locations that
will require skidding through drainage areas.
Divert drainage from landing areas onto stable
areas.
Limit the construction of skid trails on erosive
lands to a grade of less than 30 percent. Use
water bars and grass seeding to minimize
erosion on skid trails. Tractor skid when
compaction and erosion hazards are low, but
avoid tractor or wheeled skidding on wet soils
or on slopes exceeding 40 percent, unless the
operation can be conducted without causing
severe erosion. Upon completion of
harvesting activities, install water bars on skid
trails, landings, or fire trails. Tables are
provided in the manual for spacing water bars.
4. Slash Treatment and Site Preparation
Use brush blades on bulldozers when piling
slash; avoid the use of bulldozers with angle
blades. Do not overscarify the soil. Site
preparation equipment that produces irregular
surfaces is preferred. Low slash and brush
should be left to reduce erosion and maintain
cover for seedlings. Limit exposure of soils
up and down the slope during mechanical
scarification.
Properly dispose of logging machinery debris,
such as tires and broken cables. Construct
water bars in fire lines to prevent excessive
erosion. Broadcast burning and/or herbicide
treatments are the preferred methods of site
preparation, especially on steep slopes. Avoid
intense fires unless absolutely necessary to
achieve silvicultural objectives. Reforest site
prepared areas as soon as possible.
5. Winter Activities
Conduct winter logging activities when the
ground is frozen or when snow cover is
greater than 1 foot. Before logging, mark
existing culvert locations. During and after
logging, make sure that all culverts and
ditches are functional. Mark all streams prior
to snowfall, and conduct activities within
SMZs so that ground disturbance is
minimized. Before felling in wet unfrozen
areas, use tractors or skidders to compact the
snow for skid road locations. Avoid steep
trails that may be subject to erosion in the
spring. Remove all slash and tree tops from
streams.
During cold weather, plow snow from roads to
allow deep freezing of the road grade prior to
hauling. Use compacted snow for roadbeds in
roadless, wet, or sensitive areas. Following
the completion of snow road use, restore
stream crossings to preroad conditions to
prevent the formation of ice dams.
6. Hazardous Substances
Comply with regulations governing the
storage, handling, application, and disposal of
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hazardous substances. Do not transport,
handle, store, load, apply, or dispose of
hazardous substances or fertilizer in such a
manner as to pollute water supplies or
waterways, or cause damage or injury to land,
including humans, desirable plants, and
animals. Do not store, mix, or rinse
hazardous substance below the high-water
mark of waters. Develop a contingency plan
for hazardous substance spills, to include
cleanup procedures and notification of the
State Water Quality Bureau.
Pesticides must be applied by hand to specific
targets within SMZs. A 25-foot buffer must
be maintained along surface water when
pesticides are applied using ground equipment;
a 50-foot buffer around live water must be
maintained for aerial applications. Do not
aerially apply pesticides to the SMZ. Apply
pesticides during appropriate weather
conditions to enhance effectiveness and prevent
transport into streams.
7. Stream Crossings
Permanent and temporary stream-crossing
structures, fords, rip-rapping and other bank
stabilizing measures, culvert installation, and
skidding through perennial streams are subject
to 310 permits provided by the Conservation
District Office. Design stream crossings to
allow for fish passage and to minimize impacts
on stream flow. Cross streams at right angles
to the stream channel when possible. Culverts
must be at least 15 inches in diameter for
permanent stream crossings. Divert road
drainage away from the stream crossings and
into the SMZ. Time stream crossing
installation to protect fisheries and water
quality. Figures on culvert installation are
provided in the guide.
State Contact:
BillSchultz
Dept. of Slate Lands
Division of Forestry
(406) 542-4300
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Montana Department of State
Books Lands, Forestry Division.
1989. Best Management
Practices for Forestry in
Montana.
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NEVADA
References: Chapter 528, Forest Practice and
Reforestation (1979); and Nevada State Board
of Forestry, The Proposed Amended Forest
Practice Rides.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Silvicultural Methods
2. Logging Practices
3. Erosion Control
4. Logging Roads
5. Stream and Lake Protection
6. Hazard Reduction
1. Silvicultural Methods
Prior to the beginning of timber activities, a
Timber Harvest Plan will be completed. The
Plan will designate the Silvicultural methods to
be used and the objectives. The selection of
the Silvicultural methods should be based on
timber stand conditions, topography, land
stability, erosion potential, slash treatment, and
visual aspects.
Several Silvicultural methods are presented.
They include the following methods: thinning;
selection; shelterwood; seed tree; clearcutting;
and sanitation salvage. The details of these
methods are provided in the regulations.
2. Logging Practices
Logging practices must be conducted in a
manner that prevents unnecessary damage to
residual trees, reproduction, riparian area, and
water quality. Landings must be kept to a
minimum size and number consistent with safe
and efficient logging practices. Landings may
be no larger than one-half acre in size unless
otherwise explained in the Timber Harvest
Plan. Landings must not be placed within a
stream and lake protection zone or in meadows
or wet areas. .
Tractor yarding equipment may not be
operated on known, potential, or active slide
areas unless protection measures are provided
in the Plan. Timber harvesting may not be
conducted under ground moisture conditions
that could result in unreasonable soil
compaction or erosion. Tractor logging may
not be conducted on slopes in excess of
50 percent with a high erosion potential.
Cable yarding must be installed, hung, and
operated so as to minimize damage to residual
timber and production.
In Special Treatment Areas and within 200 feet
of public roads, refuse, litter, trash, and debris
associated with timber operations must be
disposed of in accordance .with state, local, and
federal laws. Timber operations may not be
conducted in a way that allows grease, oil, or
fuel to pass into lakes or streams during or
after operations.
3. Erosion Control
Following the use of tractor roads, skid trails,
landings, temporary logging roads, and fire
breaks, water breaks must be installed, natural
watercourses must be opened where permanent
culverts and bridges have not been installed,
and seeding or other practical measures must
be taken to prevent soil erosion. Water breaks
must be installed based on slope and erosion
potential. The specifications for distances
between water breaks are provided in .
Table 25. Water breaks must be constructed
so that water is discharged to adjacent areas.
Grass seeding should be supplemental to other
soil stabilizing measures. Grazing should be
excluded from areas where erosion control
work has been performed.
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TaWr 25. Maximum Distances between Water Breaks
Erosion
Potential
Low
Medium
High
Extreme
10 or less
300
200
150
100
Land
11-25
200
150
100
75
Slope (percent)
26-50
150
100
75
50
over 50
100
75
50
25
4. Logging Roads
Logging roads should be constructed along the
contour of the land to the fullest extent
practical. Roads should be constructed to
single-lane width with turnouts at reasonable
intervals. Turnouts should be no wider than
necessary to allow safe passage of logging
trucks and equipment. Logging roads should
not exceed grades of 15 percent; grades of up
to 20 percent not exceeding 500 feet are also
permissible. Special drainage provisions must
be made on all logging roads regardless of
grade. Logging roads must be constructed
with no overhanging banks. Any tree with
more than 40 percent of its root system
exposed should be felled. Locate bridges to
avoid displacement of the stream channel.
"Where the stream channel is changed, rip-rap
should be used to prevent erosion. Culvert
outflow should be directed to energy-
dissipating materials.
Upon completion of harvesting, remove berms
from logging roads, except on fills and where
necessary to deflect water to drainage
facilities. Significant amounts of woody debris
should not be used as fill material. Cross-
ditches may also be used to supplement out-
sloping and other built-in drainages such as
culverts, grade breaks, and dips. Figures and
tables for drainage structures are provided.
5. Stream and Lake Protection
During timber-harvesting activities, slash,
debris, side cast, and other materials must be
kept out of the stream and lake transition line.
Accidental deposits must be removed as soon
as practical. Trees cut within 50 feet of the
ground must be felled away from streams. A
prepared crossing must be used if logging skid
trails must cross a live stream. Install suitable
structures to allow for undisturbed stream flow
and fish passage. All temporary stream-
crossing structures that are not designed for
normal maximum stream flow must be
removed prior to normal maximum stream
flow. All temporary stream-crossing
structures must be removed upon completion
.of logging operations.
Within the stream or lake protection zone,
enough trees or shrubs must be retained to
provide 50 percent or more of the preharvest
shade-producing canopy. A lesser percentage
may be left, when the rationale is explained and
justified in the Timber Harvest Plan. Areas
exceeding 800 square feet in size within the
stream and lake protection zone, where bare
soil is exposed due to timber operations, must
be treated to keep soil from entering the
stream or lake.
6. Hazard Reduction
Slash may be broadcast burned, but broadcast
burning is not permitted within the stream and
lake protection zone.
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NEW HA[V£FSHIRE
Reference: Cullen, J.B. Best Management
Practices for Erosion Control on Timber
Harvesting Operations in New Hampshire
Resource Manual. New Hampshire
Department of Resources and Economic
Development, Division of Forests and Lands.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Planning
2. Truck Haul Roads
3. Skid Trails
4. Log Landings
5. Erosion Control Devices
7. Stream Crossings
8. Final Stabilization of Haul Roads,
Skid Trails, and Log Landings
1. Planning
Use topographic maps, soil surveys, aerial
photographs, and site reconnaissance to
develop maps for the proposed harvesting
units. These maps should identify the location
of property lines, watercourses, water bodies,
wetlands, steep slopes, landings, truck haul
toads, skid trails, stream crossings, and
erosion control devices. A well-planned and
efficiently designed transportation system will
minimize soil disturbance and erosion
potential. Construction and harvest operations
should be timed to take advantage of seasonal
conditions. Develop a plan to provide for the
retirement of truck haul roads, skid trails, and
log landings.
2. Truck Haul Roads
Locate roads on high ground, following the
contour at grades less than or equal to
10 percent. Grades between 3 and 5 percent
being the most desirable, but steeper grades
are permissible for short distances. The
minimum tread width is 10 feet for one-way
traffic and 15 feet for two-way traffic.
Increase the tread width a minimum of 4 feet
for trailer traffic. Minimize the road length
between public highways and landings. Avoid
excessive cuts and fills, and construct cut-and-
fill slopes at or less than the normal angle of
repose. When constructing roads on poorly
drained soils, use a construction fabric
underlayment.
Install water diversion and control structures to
provide drainage for the road surface. All
devices should discharge runoff onto
undisturbed forest floor. When watercourses
must be crossed, use the most direct route and
cross perpendicular to the stream flow. Divert
water from approach roads and discharge it
away from the watercourse.
Surface the road with gravel or crushed rock if
needed to prevent rutting and erosion. Place .
gravel or wood chips where the logging road
enters a public highway to prevent mud from
getting on the highway. Restrict traffic during
heavy rains and wet seasons.
3. Skid Trails
Skid trails should be located to take advantage
of natural cross drainage and away from
watercourses, water bodies, and wetlands.
Trail grades should be 15 percent or less, but
steeper grades are permissible for short
distances. Install water diversion structures to
move surface water quickly off trail surfaces
and onto undisturbed forest floor. Do not skid
logs or drive equipment through streams.
When watercourses must be crossed, use the
most direct route and cross perpendicular to
stream flow. Divert water from the trail
approach and discharge it away from the
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watercourse. Where feasible, skid across the
slope and uphill to landing areas.
4. Log Landings
Locate landings outside filter strips and at least
100 feet from streams, ponds, lakes, and
wetlands. If the 100-foot setback is not
possible, use sediment traps to minimize
sedimentation. Locate landings away from
low or poorly drained areas and minimize their
size. Provide adequate drainage on approach
trails and divert water from landings. When
servicing equipment, properly contain and
dispose of all petroleum products and other
wastes.
5. Erosion Control Devices
Retain filter strips between watercourses and
truck roads, skid trails, or log landings. Limit
equipment and harvesting operations in filter
strips to prevent exposure of mineral soil.
Filter strips should be at least 50 feet wide,
with an incremental increase of 20 feet for
each 10 percent increase in slope.
Use broad-based dips to provide cross drainage
for truck roads and heavily used skid trails
having a gradient of 10 percent or less.
Proper construction requires an experienced
bulldozer operator. Specifications for
construction and spacing are provided in the
manual. On grades steeper than 8 percent,
surface dips with stone or gravel. Dissipate
runoff water from outlet discharge areas with
stone, grass sod, litter cover, slash, or logs.
Water bars can be used on truck roads or skid
trails where surface water runoff may cause
erosion. Construct water bars at a 30 to 40
degree angle to the truck road or skid trail,
and drain them at a 3 percent out-slope onto
undisturbed litter or vegetation. Specifications
for construction and spacing are provided in
the manual. Dissipate runoff water from outlet
discharge areas with stone, grass sod, litter
cover, slash, or logs,
Reverse grades are commonly applied to skid
trails and are often used in conjunction with
other water control measures. Do not use
reverse grades on very steep terrain and
hardpan soils.
Install cross-drainage culverts where heavy
road use is anticipated during and after
harvesting. Culvert size should be based on
the size of the drainage area and should be
able to accommodate periods of high flow.
However, culverts should be a minimum of 12
inches in diameter and 20 feet long. Culverts
should be spaced according to road grade: 300
feet for 1 to 2 percent slopes, 150 feet for
3 to 10 percent slopes, and 100 feet or less for
slopes greater than 10 percent. Install culverts
at a 30 to 35 degree angle downgrade, and
slope at least 5 inches for every 10 feet of
length to permit self-cleaning.
Open-top culverts can be used as a substitute
for pipe culverts on smaller operations. Never
use open-top culverts to cross perennial or
intermittent streams. Specifications for
construction and spacing are provided.
Routine removal of debris and sediment from
these culverts is required to maintain their
functionality.
In-sloping should be used when soils are easily
saturated or highly erodible. Crowning can
also be used in these areas if adjacent land is
relatively level with the road bed or the road is
on steep side hills. Out-sloping should be used
when the area is entirely rock, or when water
can be diverted onto undisturbed forest floor.
Corduroys should be constructed on wet soils
subject to rutting and extreme compaction.
Place 8- to 10-inch diameter poles across the
wet area, perpendicular to travel direction, to
serve as a road bed. Use geo-textile fabric or
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other appropriate bedding if needed. Inspect
regularly and repair as needed.
7. Stream Crossings
"When watercourses must be crossed, use the
most direct route and cross perpendicular to
stream flow. Construct stream crossings
during periods of low flow, and avoid
construction during the egg incubation period
of valuable fisheries.
Use temporary bridges on single-lane haul
roads or skid trails. It is recommended that a
structural engineer be contacted to determine
the size and number of stringers required to
accommodate anticipated traffic load. Place
bridges where stream banks are firm and stable
and reasonably level for 50 feet on either side
of the crossing. The minimum bridge width
should be 10 feet. Bridges must be anchored
to prevent washout during periods of high
flow. Remove all bridges from track haul
roads and skid trails that will not be
maintained.
Fords can be used on streams draining less
than 1 square mile, and are permissible only
where bridges or pipe culverts are not feasible.
Fords are prohibited within 2,000 feet of
reservoirs for public and private water supplies
or intakes for drinking water. Fords should be
constructed on firm, stable streambeds where
the stream banks are fairly level for 50 feet on
each side of the watercourse. Specifications
for construction of stone fords are provided in
tfie manual. Do not cross fords when
overtopped with water, and repair and
maintain the ford after overtopping. Skidding
across stone fords is .prohibited.
Install culverts perpendicular to stream flow
during periods of low flow on banks that are
firm and reasonably level for 50 feet on each
side of the watercourse. Culverts should be
placed in the natural channel with no fill
underneath. The minimum culvert grade is
2 to 4 percent. Culvert size should be based
on the size of the drainage area and should be
able to accommodate periods of high flow.
Specifications for culvert construction and
determining proper size are provided in the
manual. Protect both ends of the culvert from
erosion.
8. Final Stabilization of Haul Roads, Skid
Trails, and Log Landings
Stabilize roads, trails, and landings by
regradihg surfaces, removing temporary
stream and wetland crossing structures',
installing water diversion structures, and
establishing vegetation on critical areas.
Prepare the seedbed by grading, removing
debris, and scarifying soil to minimum depth
of 3 inches. Lime and fertilize the seedbed
according to its needs as determined by a soil
test. Lime to pH 6.0 and fertilize at the
minimum rate of 500 pounds of 10-10-10 per
acre. Seeding mixture tables are provided in
the manual. Restrict access to all stabilized
areas.
State Contact:
J.B. Cullen
(603)271-3456
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NEW JERSEY
Reference: New Jersey Bureau of Forestry.
Best Management Practices for New Jersey
Silviculture as They Relate to Water Quality.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Improved Harvesting
2. Seeding and Planting
3. Prescribed Burning
4. Biological and Chemical Insect
Control
5. Protection from Livestock
1. Improved Harvesting
. Locate roads and skid trails away from wet
and poorly drained areas and away from tops
and toes of banks and slopes. Retain a buffer
strip between roads and water bodies that has a
minimum width of 100 feet on slopes less than
30 percent and 150 feet on steeper slopes.
When slopes exceed 10 percent, provide
drainage structures to divert running water off
roads and primary skid trails and discharge the
runoff away from streams.
Minimize the number of stream crossings
through careful planning. Locate stream
crossings where the stream banks are stable,
the stream bottom is firm, and the approaches
are fairly level. Use the most direct route to
cross streams and avoid crossing at bends or
through pools. Use temporary culverts,
bridges, or runways where stream bottoms or
banks would otherwise be damaged, and
remove them after use.
Locate landings on gently sloping ground that
will provide good drainage, and avoid low or
poorly drained areas. Landings should be
located at least 200 feet from streams, ponds,
lakes, and marshes.
Plan carefully for the protection of slopes
exceeding 30 percent. Minimize the number
of skid trails and the amount of skidder traffic,
and winch logs off steep slopes whenever
possible. Harvest steep slopes during dry
weather or when the ground is frozen and
snow-covered.
Protect stream banks by controlling skidding
and felling that occurs close to watercourses.
Design clearcuts to retain a buffer strip along
both sides of flowing streams, ponds, and
marshes. Cut selectively in this strip, avoiding
trees that contribute to maintenance of bank
integrity or that provide shade to the
watercourse, Directionally fell trees so the
tops land away from streams. Do not skid in
perennial or intermittent streams or along
stream banks. Winch off any logs that lie
close to the bank.
Upon completion of harvesting operations,
stabilize landings and access roads. Regrade
the surface of landings and access roads so
they are smooth, level, and free of ruts.
Regrade and clean ditches along roadsides, and
install water diversion devices as necessary.
Close temporary roads. Where necessary,
seed access roads, landings, and ditches.
Properly dispose of all trash, including oil
cans, lunch wrappers, and broken cable.
2. Seeding and Planting
Site preparation can be achieved by machine,
fire, and/or chemicals, but must be planned
and implemented by skilled professionals.
Establish a vegetative cover crop on credible
areas that were cultivated in the fall but will
not be planted until spring. Stabilize steep
slopes prior to planting. Use herbicides in
accordance with the manufacturer's label and
established state and federal regulations.
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3. Prescribed Burning
Have o. plan prepared by a forester, and
execute the plan with a trained crew. Do not
burn on slopes exceeding 25 percent unless
special precautions are taken.
4. Biological and Chemical insect Control
Evaluate alternatives to chemical control, but
protect high-value crops. Plans should be
prepared by trained personnel, and chemical
application must be made by certified
applicators in strict observance with the label
and established regulations. Do not spray over
water. Use insecticides with short residue
when possible.
5. Protection from Livestock
Woodlots should be fenced to prevent livestock
graring.
State Contact:
George H. Pierson, Chief
Bureau of Forest Management
(609)292-2520
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NEW MEXICO
References: New Mexico Natural Resources
Department, Forestry Division. 1983. Water
Quality Protection Guidelines for Forestry
Operations in New Mexico; and Regulations
and Laws Related to Forest Management as'
Adopted December 19, 1989.
The law requires that a harvest permit be
obtained from the Division prior to
commencing any harvesting operation. The
following information is required when
applying for a permit:
f , ..
the name(s) of legal owner and a description
of the land on which the harvest will occur;
the name and mailing address of the timber
purchaser;
the names and mailing addresses of
individuals intended to directly manage
harvest activities;
the cutting unit(s) to be established and all
main haul roads established or proposed
within the area to be harvested shown on a
USGS topographic map of no smaller scale
than 1:62500;
the time schedule for harvesting;
a forest regeneration plan; and
a plan for method of harvest and treatment
of skid trails and slash on excessive slopes
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Roads
2. Timber Harvesting
3. Slash Disposal and Site Preparation
4. Chemical Application
5. Reforestation and Timber Stand
Improvement
1. Roads
Design road layout prior to the construction,
taking into consideration variables such as site
and equipment. Design and construct roads to
take advantage of the existing landscape. Use
natural road building locations away from
streams such as benches, ridge tops, and the
toe of slopes. Design the minimum road width
by reviewing the specifications of the timber
projects. Upgrade existing roads when
possible. Avoid problem areas such as flood
zones, narrow canyon bottoms, wet areas, and
highly credible and unstable soils. Do not
locate roads on slopes greater than 60 percent.
Table 26 provides the suggested buffer widths
of undisturbed soil and vegetation between
roads and streams.
s Table 26. Buffer Strip Widths
Slope of land
(percent)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Buffer strip width
(feet)
50
70
90
110
130
160
180
200
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Keep the road grade to a minimum, usually
less than 10 percent except Jbr short distances.
Prevent tht concentration of water en the road
by designing adequate drainage features, such
as drainage and grade dips, open-top culverts,
and cross drains. Figures and specifications
are provided for these drainage structures.
Drainage can also be achieved by crowning,
in-sloping, or out-sloping the road surface.
Crown roads located on ridge tops and fairly
level land. On moderate slopes, out-slope
toads to l/4 to v/i inch per foot width. Do not
out-slope roads on steep slopes or unstable
soils; in-slope these roads and install cross
drains. Dissipate discharge from drainage
structures with rocks, slash, vegetation, or
other materials.
Cross streams perpendicular to stream flow on
stable, straight portions of the stream where
the approaches are fairly level. Divert road
drainage away from all stream crossings.
Culvert diameters should be large enough to
handle the flows expected from a 25-year
storm. Culvert ends should extend at least
1 foot past the fill on both ends. Align the
culvert exactly with the stream, on the existing
grade, and at the depth of the streambed.
Culverts should be inspected frequently and
cleared of sediment and debris. Fords should
be located only on a stable, rocky portion of
the stream.
Road construction activities should be timed to
avoid heavy seasonal rains. Balance cut-and-
fill materials as much as possible, and do not
use woody debris for fill material. Place slash
at the bottom of fill slopes to trap sediment
and slow runoff. Seed all cut-and-fill slopes
with appropriate grass species to prevent
runoff and erosion. Remove debris from
streams that was added during road
construction. Deposit surplus soil and rock in
an area where runoff will not threaten streams.
Conduct servicing and refueling of equipment
well away from streams.
Inspect newly constructed roads after the first
heavy rain to ensure that all drainage
structures and erosion controls ate functioning
properly. Prohibit or restrict the use of roads
during wet periods, depending on the stability
of the road surface. Maintain the proper in-
slope, out-slope, or crown, and reshape grade
dips.
Remove stream-crossing structures on roads
that will be permanently closed. Out-slope
closed roads to at least 5 percent to establish
natural drainage. Construct water bars to
divert runoff. A figure and table are provided
in the manual for water bar construction.
Prevent unauthorized access to closed roads by
means of gates, large water bars, rocks, logs,
or slash.
2. Timber Harvesting
Leave a buffer strip of undisturbed vegetation
on both sides of streams, following the
recommendations provided in Table 26.
Remove logging debris added to stream
channels as soon as possible. Do not fell trees
toward streams if possible.
Plan skid trails in advance of logging
operations, taking into consideration the road
system, landing areas, topography, and
sensitive environments. Do not drag skidder
blade during descent. Delay skidding
operations during very wet conditions. Avoid
skidding in or near perennial or intermittent
streams. Raise the lead edge of the logs when
skidding. Install water bars on skid trails upon
completion of logging activities.
Plan landings in conjunction with the road and
skid trail system; locate them on firm, dry
ground away from streams. Construct
landings no larger than necessary and provide
adequate drainage. After completion of
harvesting operations, rip, seed, and water bar
landings.
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3. Slash Disposal and Site Preparation
Before conducting a prescribed burn, prepare a
plan with professional forestry assistance. The
plan should consider weather conditions and
the objective of the burn. Leave a buffer strip
of unburned slash next to all streams.
Construct water bars at appropriate spacing
along firelines. When drum chopping,
disking, or windrowing, equipment should be
operated following the contour of the land.
Operations should be suspended under very
wet conditions.
4. Chemical Application
Avoid direct application of chemicals into
water bodies. Maintain adequate buffer strips.
Mixing and loading of chemicals should take
place away from water bodies. Aerial
application of chemicals should be halted when
wind speeds reach 5 miles per hour. Chemical
applications should be postponed if heavy rains
are forecast. All chemical applications must
conform to the requirements of the New
Mexico Pesticide Control Act. The chemical
manufacturer's label requirements should be
strictly adhered to.
5. Reforestation and Timber Stand
Improvement
Revegetation of all exposed soil should occur
after the completion of all operations. State
Forestry Regulations require that a
regeneration plan must be submitted for all
limber harvests greater than 25 acres.
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ New Mexico Forest Practices
Books Guidelines; Reducing Erosion
from Unpaved Rural Roads in
New Mexico
State Contact:
Garrett Blackwell
Forestry and Resource Conservation
Division
(505) 827-5830
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NEW YORK
Reference: New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation. 1981. A Clean
Harvest: Protecting Water Quality During
Timber Harvests,
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Streams and Water -
2. Roads and Skid Trails
L. Streams and Water
Carefully plan stream crossings to minimize
erosion and sedimentation. Minimize the
number of stream crossings and locate them
where the stream banks are stable, the stream
bottom is firm, and the approaches are fairly
level. Use the most direct route to cross
streams and avoid crossing at bends or through
pools. Use temporary culverts, bridges, or
runways where stream bottoms or banks would
otherwise be damaged and remove them after
use. Adhere to New York's Water Resources
Law and all state regulations when crossing
classified streams or logging along wild,
scenic, and recreational rivers.
Protect stream banks by controlling skidding
and felling that occur close to watercourses.
Avoid cutting trees that contribute to
maintenance of bank integrity or that provide
shade to the watercourse. Design clearcuts to
retain a 50-foot wide uncut buffer strip along
both sides of flowing streams, ponds, and
Tnarshes. Directionally fell trees so the tops
land away from streams. Do not skid in
perennial or intermittent streams or along
stream banks. Winch off any logs that lie
close to the bank. Remove all logging debris
that accidentally enters watercourses.
2. Roads and Skid Trails
Locate roads and skid trails away from wet
and poorly drained areas, and from tops and
toes of banks and slopes. Retain a buffer strip
between roads and water bodies that has a
minimum width of 100 feet on slopes less than
30 percent and 150 feet on steeper slopes.
When slopes exceed 10 percent, provide
drainage structures to divert running water off
roads and primary skid trails and discharge the
runoff away from streams.
Locate landings on gently sloping ground that
will provide good drainage, and avoid low or
poorly drained areas. Landings should be
located at least 200 feet from streams, ponds,
lakes, and marshes.
Plan carefully for the protection of slopes
exceeding 30 percent. Minimize the number
of skid trails and the amount of skidder traffic,
and winch logs off steep slopes whenever
possible. Harvest steep slopes during dry
weather or when the ground is frozen and
snow-covered.
Upon completion of harvesting operations,
stabilize landings and access roads. Regrade
the surface of landings and access roads so
they are smooth, level, and free of ruts.
Regrade and clean ditches along roadsides, and
install water diversion devices as necessary.
Where necessary, seed access roads, landings,
and ditches.
State Contact:
BartZek
Division of Lands and Forests
(518)457-7431
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
Other Available State Information
Brochures Timber Harvesting Guidelines
for New York; New York State
Cooperating Timber Harvester
Program
104
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vvEPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
NORTH CAROLINA
Reference: North Carolina Department of
Environment, Health and Natural Resources,
Division of Forest Resources. 1989. Forestry
Best Management Practices Manual; and the
Forest Practices Guidelines Related to Water
Quality (15NCAC 11.0101-.0209).
line Sedimentation Pollution Control Act
requires that an erosion and sediment control
plan be submitted and approved for earth-
disturbing activities greater than one
contiguous acre. Forestry operations are
exempt from the Act, providing that forest
owners and operators adhere to the
performance standards established by the
Forest Practices Guidelines Related to Water
Quality (15NCAC 11.0101-.0209). The best
management practices recommended in the
manual can be used to achieve compliance of
the performance standards.
FOREST PRACTICES GUIDELINES
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Streamside Management Zone. SMZs must
be established along intermittent and perennial
streams and perennial water bodies. The
SMZs must have sufficient width and adequate
ground cover to confine visible sediment.
Locate roads, trails, decks, and mill sites
outside SMZs.
Prohibition of Debris Entering Streams.
Prevent debris Of all types from entering
intermittent and perennial streams and water
bodies since debris may result in stream
obstruction, impediment of stream flow, or
water quality degradation. Remove debris that
accidentally enters streams.
Access Road and Skid Trail Stream
Crossings. Avoid crossing streams when
possible. Do not use stream channels as roads
or trails. Construct crossings to minimize
sediment entering streams, and to not impede
or obstruct stream flow. Protect stream banks
and channels from damage. Provide water
control devices and/or structures and, within
10 working days of initial disturbance, provide
ground cover sufficient to restrain accelerated
erosion and prevent stream sedimentation.
Access Road Entrance. Prevent soil and
debris from being deposited on public
highways, which may result in stream
sedimentation.
Prohibition of Waste Entering Streams,
Waterbodies, and Groundwater. Prevent
oil, fuels, fertilizers, and other chemical waste
from entering streams, water bodies, and
groundwater.
Pesticide Application. Application must
follow the manufacturer's labeling and North
Carolina Pesticide Board rules. The term
pesticides includes insecticides, fungicides,
herbicides, and rodenticides.
Fertilizer Application. Apply in a manner
that prevents adverse impacts on water quality.
Stream Temperature. Retain sufficient shade
on natural perennial streams to prevent
temperature fluctuations.
Rehabilitation of Project Site. Within 30
working days after ceasing operations, provide
sedimentation control measures to prevent
stream water quality damage. Maintain
sediment control measures until the site is
permanently stabilized. Permanently stabilize
SMZ areas and other areas that may directly
contribute visible sediment to streams.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
I
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
General Erosion Control
Preharvest Planning
Streamside Management Zone
Access Roads
Log Decks, Landings, and Portable
Sawmill Locations
Skid Trails
Stream Crossings
Road Drainage
Site Preparation and Reforestation
10. Revegetating Disturbed Areas
11. Wildfire Protection
6.
7.
8.
9.
3. General Erosion Control
Minimize the area and degree of soil
disturbance that reduces infiltration capacity
and destroys protective forest floor and ground
cover vegetation. Minimize disturbance to
ephemeral stream systems. Minimize changes
to the microtopography that result in
channelization of large volumes of high-
velocity water on bare soil. Provide fpr
dispersal of sediment-laden surface flow into
undisturbed forest floor that has high
infiltration capacity. Maximize the distance
between large areas of bare soil, and do not
operate during soil-saturated conditions.
2. Preharvest Planning
Develop a written preharvest plan to determine
which BMPs are necessary to protect water
quality and how those BMPs will be
implemented. Depending on the site and the
nature of the harvest, the plan should address
the following: property boundaries; harvest
areas; forest type; soil types; slopes;
approximate location of haul roads, skid trails,
potential log landings, and portable sawmills;'
watercourses; planned stream crossings;
SMZs; and timing of the harvest.
3. Streamside Management Zone
Establish an SMZ along each intermittent and
perennial stream and perennial water body.
The SMZ must have sufficient width to
prevent sedimentation of the watercourse. The
width may vary depending on the type of
stream, the primary use of the water resource,
and the topography. The recommended
minimum widths are in Table 27.
Table 27. Recommended Minimum SMZ Widths
Tj-pe of Stream
or Waterbody
Intermittent
Perennial
Perennial Trout Waters
Public Water Supplies
(Streams and Reservoirs)
0-5
Percent Slope of Adjacent Lands
6-10 11-20 21-45
46+
SMZ Width Each Side (feet)
50
50
50
50
50
50
66
100 ,
50
50
75
150
50
50
100
150
50
50
125
200
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
In SMZs, limited harvesting is permissible, but
the forest floor and ground cover vegetation
must remain essentially undisturbed. A
maximum of 20 percent evenly distributed bare
ground is allowable in SMZs along perennial
streams, and a maximum of 40 percent evenly
distributed bare ground is allowable along
intermittent streams. If the limit is exceeded,
ground cover must be provided. Skidders
should not operate in ephemeral drainages.
Retain a minimum of 75 percent of the pre-
harvest shade on the stream channel. Remove
all harvesting debris from watercourses.
Do not allow high-intensity broadcast burns in
SMZs. Do not allow broadcast applications of
fertilizers or pesticides to directly enter or drift
into watercourses and water bodies. Do not
broadcast chemicals to the surface of
ephemeral drainages within the SMZ.
Individual stem treatment with herbicides is
allowed within SMZs. Locate sawmill sites
and landings outside SMZs. Do not locate
roads and trails in SMZs, except for stream
crossings. Promptly revegetate or provide
adequate ground cover for bare soil areas
within an SMZ.
4. Access Roads
Preharvest planning is essential for proper road
location. If possible, haul roads should be
built at least a year before harvest begins so
that they have time to stabilize. Locate roads
on side slopes, and avoid wet floodplain soils
and SMZs. Roads should follow the contour
at grades between 1 and 10 percent. Steeper
gradients are permissible for short distances,
usually not exceeding 200 feet. The
application of crushed stone on steep grades
can help stabilize road surfaces.
Establish good drainage with properly
constructed and spaced ditch turnouts, broad-
based dips, culverts, and bridges. Where
conditions allow, out-slope the entire width of
the road. Below cross drain outlets, install
erosion protection devices. Stream-crossing
structures should be sized and installed in a
manner that does not impede stream flow or
fish passage. Cross streams perpendicular to
stream flow. Provide water control measures
on approaches to stream crossings.
Vertical road bank cuts in credible material
should normally not exceed 5 feet in height.
Road bank cuts more than 5 feet high should
be at least a 2:1 ratio, and a ground cover
should be provided to control erosion. Use
cleared materials for brush barriers along road
fills or other erosive areas.
Roads should be inspected at frequent intervals
to ensure proper maintenance. Roads should
be kept free of obstructions, ruts, and logging
debris. When the depth of ruts exceed
6 inches for a distance of SO feet or greater,
regrade the road. Maintain drainage systems
during operations. Restrict traffic on roads
during unfavorable soil and road surface
conditions. Upon completion of operations,
shape and smooth the road surface, ensure that
drainage systems are functioning, and provide
ground cover on steep slopes and all bare soil
areas located within SMZs. Control traffic to
reduce erosion, sedimentation, and
maintenance problems.
5. Log Decks, Landings, and Portable
Sawmill Locations
Locate sites for decks and portable mills prior
to road construction. Locate decks outside
SMZs and on sloping sites to provide good
drainage. On steep terrain, locate decks high
on the slope to allow skid trails to disperse
downhill rather than concentrate at one point.
On very long slopes, use mid-slope decks.
Prevent water from entering the landing by
providing good drainage on approach roads
and trails and constructing a diversion ditch
around the uphill side of the landing. Remove
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
v°xEPA
and properly dispose of garbage, trash, and
wastes from servicing equipment. Do not
locate residue piles in ephemeral drainages.
During ongoing operations, inspect sites
frequently for water quality problems and
correct any unacceptable conditions. Upon
completion of operations, provide ground
cover on decks, landings, and portable sawmill
sites.
6. Skid Trails
Avoid construction and use of skid trails that
create large areas of compacted bare ground
with reduced infiltration capacity. If it is not
possible to limit areas of bare ground to
acceptable levels using conventional ground
skidding, then alternative types of logging
systems, such as high-lead and boom cable,
should be considered. A recommended
sequence of cutting and skidding is to harvest
the furthermost timber first. As harvesting
progresses, place logging slash along bare
ground areas and leave tree tops in trails.
Skid timber in an uphill direction. Downhill
skidding should be confined to low gradients
and up-slope positions. Skid trails should
follow the contour and not exceed grades of
25 percent Create a zig-zag pattern that
avoids long, steep grades. Concentrate
skidding on a few primary skid trails.
Secondary skid trails should be used no more
than two times. Locate skid trails outside
SMZs and natural drainages. Do not skid
during saturated soil conditions.
Immediately following use, construct high
water bars on skid trails to prevent access. On
steep slopes and in SMZs, provide ground
cover on skid trails and revegetate trails or
cover with logging slash.
7. Stream Crossings
Install pipe culverts of adequate type and
proper size and length on the natural stream
bottom at a 2 to 4 percent grade. A table is
provided in the manual for determining culvert
size based on drainage basin area, slope, and
soil porosity. Where watersheds require
.culverts larger than 48 inches in diameter, the
use of bridges or multiple culverts is
recommended. Select installation sites that do
not have sharp bends, have good water
entrance and exit areas, and have favorable
bank conditions. Use bridges to cross steams
that drain large watersheds where culverts can
not handle the stream flow, and select the
proper type, size, and material to
accommodate the maximum stream flow.
Protect stream channel and banks from erosion
during construction. Fords can be used where
the stream system has an existing or applied
firm base, but they should be fortified using
rip-rap stone or a layer of poles, which should
be removed after use. Provide proper surface
drainage on road and trail approaches, and
discharge runoff into undisturbed areas.
Stabilize the crossing area and approach roads.
Routine maintenance of stream crossing
structures is important to retain functionality
and safe conditions. Inspect for failure and/or
effectiveness of approaches, drainage system,
fill depth over culvert, flow through structures,
bridge decking, abutments and headwalls,
emergency spillway (where applicable), and
ground cover. Promptly correct conditions or
situations that are unsafe or ineffective.
Remove culverts and bridges from temporary
crossings upon completion of operations, and
stabilize as needed.
8. Road Drainage
Water turnouts should be installed as needed,
but should be frequent enough to provide good
drainage and maximum roadbed drying.
Turnouts should not empty direcdy into
adjacent drainages, and runoff water should be
dispersed, retained, or filtered at the turnout
outlet. Turnouts should be out-sloped 1 to 3
108
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v»EPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
percent and intersect the ditch line at the same
depth.
Broad-based dips can be used to effectively
collect and divert surface runoff on roads
having a gradient of 12 percent or less. They
should not be used for cross draining in-side
ditches, spring seeps, or streams.
Specifications for construction and spacing are
provided in the manual. Install an energy
absorber at the dip outlet to minimize erosion.
The dip and reverse grade section may require
bedding with 3-inch crushed stone to stabilize
the surface and prevent rutting.
Rolling dips can also be used as cross drains,
but only on primary skid trails having steep
gradients. They should not be used for cross
draining spring seeps or streams.
Specifications for construction and spacing are
provided in the manual. Install an energy
absorber at the dip outlet to minimize erosion.
Pipe culverts are usually installed as cross
drains only on permanent roads. Culverts
should be sized to site conditions, but should
be a minimum of 14 inches in diameter. Place
the culvert on a 2 to 4 percent grade, skewed
30 percent downgrade. Both ends of the
culvert should extend beyond the toe of the fill
slopes. Install an energy absorber at the
culvert outlet to minimize erosion.
Water bars are used on roads, trails, and
firelines where vehicular traffic is not
anticipated. Specifications for construction
and spacing are provided in the manual.
Water bars should fully intercept ditch flow.
Install an energy absorber at the water bar
outlet to minimize erosion. "
Inspect all structures frequently during ongoing
operations and immediately following
significant rain events to evaluate their
effectiveness. Promptly correct conditions or
situations that are ineffective.
9. Site Preparation and Reforestation
If preharvest planning does not address site
preparation, then a Regeneration Plan should
be prepared prior to commencing site
preparation activities. Confine site preparation
intensity to the minimum required to achieve
planned results. Use chemicals, fire, or hand
tools instead of heavy machinery on steep
terrain or fragile soils. Do not allow debris to
enter watercourses.
Firelines for prescribed burning should be
constructed along the perimeter of the burn
area and SMZs and should not be constructed
in salt marshes, critical wetlands, or riparian
areas. Firelines should be only as wide and
deep as necessary to contain the burn and
should be constructed following guidelines
established for skid trails. On steep terrain,
construct firelines by hand. If herbicides are
aerially or broadcast applied on an SMZ, then
prescribed burning in the SMZ is not advised
because the chemical will intensify the burn.
Prescribed burning should be conducted by
trained and properly equipped personnel when
soil moisture and atmospheric conditions are
favorable.
Of various mechanical site preparation
techniques, the use of shearing and drum
chopping is preferable to disking, and a shear
(KG) blade should be used instead of a straight
blade. Do not operate bulldozers on slopes
greater than 45 percent, in SMZs, or in
ephemeral streams. Keep the dozer blade at
least 3 inches above the ground surface, and
do not expose more than 50 percent of the
mineral soil. Windrows should be constructed
along the contour, tightly packed, free of soil,
and as narrow as possible. Recommended
windrow spacing is provided, but spacing
should be determined by slope, soil type and
its credibility, and the amount of vegetation to
be sheared or pushed. Windrows should have
openings at least 20 feet wide for each 600 feet
109
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
of length. When raking, use a toothed-type
root rake rather than a blade, and do not
penetrate the soil. Bedding should be
performed along the contour and should not be
connected to drainages. Furrowing and
scalping should follow the contour, should be
less than 6 inches deep, and should not
channel water into any drainage. Perform
machine planting when site conditions are
suitable and perform along the contour.
Pesticide use must follow manufacturer's label
instructions, EPA guidelines, and the North
Carolina Pesticide Board of Regulations and
Laws. Carefully mix pesticides to avoid spills
and to ensure that excessive amounts of
chemicals are not being applied. Do not apply
pesticides during unstable and unpredictable
changing weather patterns, when surface wind
speeds exceed 6 miles per hour, or when the
temperature is 90°F or above. Use equipment
and techniques that minimize drift; do not
directly apply chemicals to surface water Do
not clean containers or application equipment
an or near streams.
Apply fertilizer in accordance with
manufacturer's label instruction and at rates
reflecting tree species and soil needs. Do not
broadcast apply fertilizers within 25 feet of
open water and perennial streams.
10. Revegetating Disturbed Areas
Perform seedbed preparation only as needed
To ensure adequate establishment of grass and
legumes, most disturbed sites will require
apphcation of lime and fertilizer. Apply Ume
and fertihzer evenly, and incorporate into the
top 4 to 6 inches of soil. Apply seed
ujuformly using properly calibrated equipment
WMI hydroseeding, ensure that the ground
surface is rough prior to application. Use
certified seed for permanent seeding whenever
possible, and mulch immediately al
applied. The choice of mulch should
on soil conditions, season, type of vegetation
and size of the area. Recommended mulching
materials and rates are provided. Straw mulch
must be anchored immediately after spreading
Seeding mixtures, applications rates, and
application dates are provided on a regional
basis. A guide on how to calculate seed and
fertilizer needs for roads and disturbed areas is
also included. Inspect seeded areas for failure
make necessary repairs, and reseed within the'
same season, if possible.
11. Wildfire Protection
Consider the following when fightine
wildfires:
bare no more ground than is necessary
avoid disturbing existing gullies; and
when approaching or crossing streams,
minimize damage to stream banks and'
stream channel areas.
After wildfire operations have ended, construct
turnouts, waterbars, or other water control
structures along firelines and provide ground
cover on steep areas and within SMZs.
State Contact:
Whit Collier
Division of Forest Resources
(919)733-2162
Other Available State Information
Pocket Guide to Forest Practice
Guidelines (1990)
Brochures Forestry Leaflets: Summary of
Performance Standards;
Streamside Management Zones;
Suggested Provisions for
Timber Sale Contracts; and
Becoming a Forest Steward in
North Carolina
110
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v>EPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
OHIO
Reference: Ohio Department of Natural
Resources, Division of Forestry. 1991.
BMP'sfor Erosion Control on Logging Jobs.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Planning Logging Operations
2. Haul Roads
3. Skid Roads
4. Maintenance
5. Stream Crossings
6. .Filter and Shade Strips
7. Landing
8. Sale Closing
1. Planning Logging Operations
Develop a preharvest plan including a map
identifying property boundaries, streams and
drainages, critical areas, road and trail
locations, stream and drainage crossings, log
landings and mill seats, buffer zones, and
other environmental concerns. Also note road
and trail specifications, harvesting equipment
to be used, time of harvest, logging contract
specifications, special planning for wet areas,
and obstructions such as rock outcroppings. .
Cross streams at right angles. Construct small
bridges or install culverts at live stream
crossings and seeps. Roads leading down to a
stream crossing should be drained. Logs
should not be skidded through flowing
streams.
2. Haul Roads
Locate roads on side slopes where side
drainage is possible, and at grades between 2
and 10 percent. Steeper grades, 15 percent,
can be used for distances up to 200 feet.
Avoid long, straight grades by following the
contour. Use topographic maps to help locate
roads. Avoid wet and critical areas.
Design the road to safely accommodate
anticipated traffic volume and weight. Cut and
fill slopes should not exceed a 2:1 ratio.
Install side ditches where surface runoff
endangers fill areas, and ensure good cross
drainage through the use of turnouts, rolling
dips, broad-based dips, pipe culverts, or open-
top culverts. Specifications for construction of
drainage structures are provided in the manual.
When building in wet areas, use pervious fill
material and surface the road with wooden
mats or other appropriate material to prevent
rutting. Gravel the haul road entrance when
necessary to prevent mud from entering a
highway.
Cross streams perpendicular to stream flow
using bridges or culverts. If bridges or
culverts are not feasible, ford streams where
streambeds and banks are rock or stone and
equipment can cross with a minimum of
disturbance."
Maintain roads and drainage systems during
construction and harvest. Do not operate
during weather conditions that will generate
excessive erosion and sedimentation. Control
erosion during construction using temporary
measures, such as hay or straw bales or silt
fences across a slope or at the base of a slope.
3. Skid Roads
Locate landings first, and then plan major skid
trails to minimize damage to the residual stand
and reduce erosion potential. Locate skid
trails along the contour at grades 20 percent or
less, and avoid stream channels, rocky places,
spring seeps, adverse grades, and wet areas.
Do not locate skid trails in streamside filter or
shade strips. Do not construct skid trails
straight up the hill, but proceed slanting up the
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
slope. Avoid long, steep grades by following
surface contours and occasionally changing
direction. Cross streams perpendicular to
stream flow, and construct temporary bridges,
crossings, or culverts.
Upon completion of harvesting operations,
remove stream-crossing structures as soon as
possible. Stream crossings and channels
should be clear of slash and restored to their
natural shape and grade. Stabilize skid roads
using water bars, logging debris, seed, and/or
mulch.
4. Maintenance
During new road and landing construction,
prevent entry of soil to waterways using
temporary sediment barriers. Periodically
Aspect all drainage structures for obstructions
Recrown haul roads and skid roads, and watch
for wet areas or seeps during rainy periods.
5. Stream Crossings '
Construct small bridges or install culverts at
live stream crossings and seeps perpendicular
to stream flow. If bridges and culverts are not
feasible, ford streams at right angles, where
stream bottom is rock and banks are rock
Culverts placed in streams should be in line
with the natural stream course, and the slope'
of the culvert should be slightly less than the
slope of the streambed. Drain roads and skid
trails away from the stream crossing, and
apply gravel and rip-rap to skid road
approaches. Logs should not be skidded
through flowing streams.
6. Klter and Shade Strips
Filter strip widths are determined by the slope
between the road and the stream The
mimmum width is 25 feet, and increases by 20
feet for each additional 10 percent increase in
slope. Filter strips should be wider in
municipal watersheds and critical areas. Shade
stops are 25-foot areas on either side of stream
banks that are not cut or are lightly cut to
preserve adequate shading and maintain
satisfactory stream temperature. Selectively
harvest in filter stops. Minimize equipment
operation in filter stops, and seed and mulch
exposed soil. Do not skid in filter and shade
stops,-and limit skid and haul roads to stream
crossings. Do not construct landings or yards
in filter or shade strips. Install energy
dissipators at culvert outlets where the culverts
are not in the natural streambed at natural
grade.
7. Landings
Landing locations should be planned before
operations begin. Location should be
determined by the size of the operation, the
location and amount of timber to be harvested
ground conditions, drainage, skid road
location, and safe access to the highway.
Locate landings outside filter and shade stops
on dry sites with slight slopes. Provide
adequate drainage on approach roads so that
runoff does not enter the landing area. Upon
completion of operations, remove all trash
from the harvest site and revegetate landings
and yards as soon as possible.
8. Sale Closing
Construct water bars on skid trails and haul
roads that will not have vehicular traffic.
Water bars should be installed at an angle
30 degrees to the road and an outslope of 2 to
3 degrees. Recommended water bar spacing
and specifications are provided in the manual.
Dissipate the discharge from water bar outlets
onto the undisturbed forest floor. Pipe
culverts, box culverts, or broad-based dips
should be installed and maintained on roads
that will continue to have traffic. Water bars
and other erosion control devices should be
112
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
installed even on temporary or seasonal shut-
downs. Reestablish vegetation on all areas that
have exposed mineral soil as a result of
logging operations, such as roads and decks.
"Within 1 year of sale closing, a 50 percent
vegetative cover should be established. Apply
lime, fertilizer, and mulch if necessary.
Recommended seeding mixtures, seeding rates,
fertilizer rates, and mulching guides are
provided in the manual.
State Contact:
Mark Ervin
Division of Forestry
(614) 265-6667
Other Available State Information
Brochures Planting Filter Strips to
Improve Water Quality
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
114
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EPA
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
OKLAHOMA
Reference: Oklahoma Department of
Agriculture, Forestry Division. 1985. Forest
'Manager's Guide for Water Quality in
Oklahoma.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Streamside Management
2. Overall Management and
Compartment Planning
3. Forest Roads
4. Harvesting
5. Site Preparation
6. Forest Chemicals
7. Firelines
8. Revegetation
1. Streamside Management
"Die objective of Streamside management is to
exercise caution when working near
watercourses to prevent degradation of water
quality. Protect streambeds and stream banks
from damage by heavy equipment or logging
operations. Removal of overstory vegetation
is permissible, but the understory vegetation
should be protected and quickly revitalized.
Cable skidding should be used in Streamside
management zones. Do not use mechanical
site preparation or prescribed burning in
SMZs, and do not locate landings in SMZs.
2, Overall Management and Compartment
Planning
"When developing a management plan,
determine the landowner's objectives and
evaluate the proposed site. Use topographic
maps, road maps, aerial photographs, soil
surveys, and recent management plans for
adjacent sites, in addition to field
reconnaissance, to evaluate the site's soil
conditions, topography, drainage patterns, and
timber cover. The Guide provides a Field
Examination Summary that will aid the
landowner and the forest manager in selecting
management alternatives and recommending
BMPs. These elements should be detailed in a
written management plan. Sample
management plans are also provided in the
Guide.
Plan the layout of harvest areas and access
roads considering erosional and water quality
impacts. Where practical, place setting
boundaries at perennial streams, roads, or
changes in soil type, forest type, or
topography. Design settings to optimize
economic skidding distances, to minimize road
densities and unnecessary road construction,
and for efficient establishment and
management of subsequent forest crops.
Avoid leaving narrow, unmanageable strips of
timber. Schedule operations to avoid wet
weather and minimize adverse impacts on soils
and water quality.
3. Forest Roads
Locate roads along the crests of ridges or
along the contour and avoid locating in narrow
canyons, marshes, wet meadows, natural
drainage channels, and SMZs. Minimize the
number of stream crossings, but when
necessary cross perpendicular to streamflow.
Use the minimum design standard necessary to
accommodate die anticipated traffic load to
minimize environmental impacts.
Limit right-of-way clearing and road
construction to a width commensurate with the
planned use of the road. Minimize the need
for borrow pits by balancing excavation and
embankments. Construct road cut slopes to
minimize the potential for bank failures. Do
not place fill material below the high water
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
mark of a stream, except when necessary at a
stream crossing. Do not bury stumps or slash
in the load-bearing portion of the road. Place
logs or slash at the foot of slopes to trap
sediment. Seed and mulch as needed. Do not
continue construction during wet weather
periods. Appendix B of the Guide provides
technical guidelines for road construction
activities, including installation of drainage
structures.
Install ditches, culverts, cross drains, drainage
dips, water bars, and diversion ditches
concurrent with road construction. Install
drainage structures at low points in the road
gradient. Disperse road drainage onto
undisturbed forest floor, and do not discharge
dnunage structures onto credible soils or fill
dopes unless outfall protection is provided
Properly size culverts to accommodate
anticipated flow volumes.
crossing watercourses, use bridges or
culverts if fording would create rutting or
station. Use low-water bridges and overflow
culverts to minimize changes to the natural
stream channel during periods of high water '
Protect bridge approaches using rocky fill
material, ground cover, riprap, concrete
surfacing, or retaining walls and bulkheads
Badges should not constrict clearly defined'
stream channels. Remove slash and debris
generated from road construction activities
from watercourses.
Periodically inspect roads to determine
whether maintenance is required. Road
surfaces should be crowned, out-sloped or
water barred to dissipate surface runoff 'and
minimize erosion of the roadbed. Clear
blockages from "ditches and culverts
Revegetate or stabilize exposed soil 'areas
4. Harvesting
Locate landings to minimize adverse impacts
of skidding on the natural drainage pattern
Landings should be on firm ground outside
SMZs of perennial streams and above the
ordinary high water mark of intermittent
streams. Landing size should be the smallest
area required for safe logging. Provide
adequate drainage for landings by out-sloping
roads and skid trails above landing areas and
by diverting drainage water and dispersing it
onto the forest floor. Upon completion of
operations, seed or install drainage structures
to minimize erosion.
Harvest operations should match available
equipment with the terrain, soils, and weather
conditions to minimize soil compaction and
disturbance. Locate skid trails to avoid steep
-gradients, streams crossings, SMZs, and
disrupting natural drainage channels, and to
take advantage of topography. Skidding
should be upslope or on the contour to
disperse runoff. Temporary stream crossings
may be necessary to protect streambeds and
stream banks and to minimize sedimentation
Occasionally break the grade on skid trails to
facilitate diversion of water. Practice
directional felling near streams, avoid felling
trees in streams, and immediately remove any
debns. Fell trees parallel to skid trails with
butts toward the landing. Use cable skidding
mSMZs. Upon completion of harvesting
operations, skid trails should be water barred
and temporary stream crossing should be
removed. Revegetate erosion-prone areas.
Store fiiel and lubricants away from
watercourses where accidental spills would not
result in contamination. Logging litter, such
as oil cans, grease containers, crankcase oil,
old tires, broken cable, paper, and other trash
must be prevented from entering watercourses
and should be disposed of properly.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
5. Site Preparation
Prompt regeneration is essential to realize site
productivity and to minimize soil erosion.
Mechanical site preparation should be
conducted in a manner that minimizes soil
erosion and compaction and prevents the
accumulation of debris in, or sedimentation of,
water bodies. Limit the degree of site
preparation to the amount necessary on a given
soil type to achieve a well-stocked stand of the
desired species. Do not conduct mechanical
site preparation activities in SMZs.
Shearing and KG bladhig are best suited to
rock-free areas with little slope and relatively
large amounts of unmerchantable material to
be removed. Where soils are highly erodible
or low in nutrients, or on slopes greater than
10 percent, the adverse effects of the shearing-
windrowing practice may outweigh any
advantage. When shearing, minimize soil
disturbance and displacement. Construct
windrows along the contour and minimize the
of soil incorporated.
Disk-harrowing with bedding and furrowing is
often used on flat and gentle topography.
Avoid disking on steep slopes with erodible
soils. Disjdng of alternate strips on the
contour may be an acceptable practice on
certain side slopes. Provide water outlets on
bedded or furrowed areas at locations that will
minimize movement of sediment and discharge
onto vegetated surfaces.
Do not rip along or across streams or natural
drainage channels; rip along the contour.
Provide for discharge of drainage water onto
vegetated surfaces.
If drainage is necessary for the establishment
and growth of commercial tree species, plan
the drainage system to fit the topography and
seasonal flow variations and to take advantage
of natural drainage patterns. Design ditches
based on surface soil type, slope, depth to hard
pan, and the volume of water to be controlled.
Use cofferdams and other devices to gradually
deliver initial discharges into natural
waterways. Place ditch spoil material away
from the edge of the ditch. Keep the drainage
system clear of logging debris. Repair,
revegetate, or stabilize ditch bank failure and
erosion from side-cast material.
6. Forest Chemicals
Chemicals must be handled and applied in
accordance with the manufacturer's label
instructions and all applicable federal and state
regulations. Do not permit chemicals to leak
from equipment used for transportation,
storage, mixing, or application. Do not mix
chemicals near water bodies. Provide an air
gap or reservoir between the water source and
the mixing tank, and use uncontaminated
pumps, hoses, and screens. Do not apply
chemicals directly to surface waters. During
aerial applications, use a spray device capable
of immediate shutoff, and stop application
during turns. Remove and dispose of chemical
containers in a manner conforming to state
regulations and label directions. Clean
equipment away from water bodies, and
dispose of residues in conformity with state
requirements.
7, Firelines
Install practices to prevent channelized flow,
improve drainage, and stabilize bare soil.
Firelines constructed during prescribed burning
activities or routine fire suppression should be
water barred immediately. Firelines
constructed during wildfire suppression should
be water barred after the fire is extinguished;
Bare areas on steep slopes should be
revegetated.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
8. Revegetafion
Cultivate severely compacted areas. Scarify
the surface when broadcast seed spraying. If
site preparation is not completed within
planting dates, stabilize the area with mulch
and then plant during optimum planting dates.
Planting should be performed as soon as
possible after seedbed preparation is
completed. The Guide provides optimum
planting dates for various species. Mulch area
with 1 pound per square yard of weed-free
native hay to minimize erosion and retain
moisture. Fence revegetated areas where
necessary to protect from grazing or human
activities. Fertilize as necessary to establish
good cover.
State Contact:
Robert L. Miller
Dept. of Agriculture
Forestry Division
(405) 521-3864
Other Available State Information
^___^___
Videos Logging BMPs and Water Quality
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
OREGON
Reference: Oregon Department of Forestry,
Forest Practices Section. 1991. Forest
Practice Rules, Eastern Oregon Region,
Northwest Oregon Region, and Southwest
Oregon Region.
AH timber operators and landowners in the
state of Oregon must comply with the Rules.
The Oregon Forest Practice Rules are
currently being revised and are projected to be
complete in 1993.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Notification and Written Plans
2. Leakage or Accidental Spill of
Petroleum Products
3. Riparian Management Areas
4. Application of Chemicals
5. Disposal of Slash
6. Reforestation
7. Road Construction and Maintenance
8. Harvesting
1. Notification and Written Plans
The operator, landowner, or timber owner
shall notify the State Forester at least 15 days
prior to the commencement of the following
operations:
Harvesting of forest tree species;
Construction, reconstruction, and
improvement of roads;
Application of pesticides and fertilizers;
Site preparation for reforestation involving
clearing or use of heavy machinery;
Clearing forest land for conversion to any
nonforest use;
Disposal or treatment of slash;
Precommercial thinning;
« Cutting of firewood, when the firewood will
be sold or used for barter.
Approval of a written plan must be obtained
before conducting operations within 100 feet of
a stream classified as a Class I water (having
important fish or domestic use); within 300
feet of a specific site involving threatened or
endangered wildlife species or sensitive bird
nesting; within 300 feet of any nesting or
roosting site of threatened or endangered
species listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service or the Oregon Fish and Wildlife
Service; or within 300 feet of a significant
wetland. The written plan must contain
specific information applicable to the operation
including, but not limited to, the following:
location of roads and landings, road and
landing design, construction techniques,
drainage systems, disposal of waste materials,
felling and bucking, buffer strips, yarding
systems and layout, riparian management area
protection measures, resource site protection
measures, and postoperation stabilization
measures.
2. Leakage or Accidental Spill of
Petroleum Products
Adequate precautions are to be taken to
prevent leakage or accidental spillage of any
petroleum products so that the products will
not enter waters of the state.
3. Riparian Management Areas
The riparian management area is along each
side of a Class I water, and special .
management practices are required to protect
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vvEPA
water quality, aquatic habitat, and wildlife
habitat. The boundaries of the riparian
management area need not be formed by
straight lines. The width of the area may vary
depending on topography, vegetative cover,
the needs of the harvesting design, and the
needs for aquatic and wildlife habitat.
Requirements are set for the average width of
the riparian area for streams, estuaries, lakes
and wetlands.
4. Application of Chemicals
Equipment used for transportation, storage, or
application of chemicals must be leakproof.
When water is taken from any stream or water
impoundment for use in miring chemicals, an
air gap or reservoir must be provided between
the water source and the miring tank, or a
portable pump should be used. When spraying
chemicals by aircraft, leave an unsprayed strip
of at least 60 feet on each side of every Class I
water or area of open water, and areas
adjacent to inhabited dwellings. When
applying chemical spray from the ground,
leave an unsprayed strip of at least 10 feet on
each side of every waterway or area of open
water. Application of chemical spray in or
adjacent to the riparian area of influence must
be made parallel to waterways and prior to
application to the remainder of the area to be
treated. Mix chemicals and clean tanks or
equipment only where the chemicals will not
contaminate waters of the state. Locate
miring areas and aircraft landing areas where
spillage of chemicals will not contaminate
waters of the state. Immediately contain and
neutralize any chemical spills. Rinse chemical
containers with the carrier used in miring at
least three times.
A daily record must be maintained for each
application of a pesticide and should include:
name of monitor or name of applicator;
location of project;
hourly temperature, wind velocity, and wind
direction;
contractor's name (and pilot's name when
applied aerially);
pesticide name, mixture, application rate,
and carrier used; and
disposal method and location of containers.
5. Disposal of Slash
Reduce the volume of debris as much as
possible. Dispose of or disperse unstable
slash accumulations around landings to prevent
their entry into streams. When treating
competing vegetation, plan harvesting practices
to break up or destroy such vegetation; follow
up with chemical application and/or burning if
necessary. Burning is not allowed in riparian
areas along a Class I water. When burning in
riparian areas of influence, protect aquatic and
wildlife habitat such as downed logs and
snags.
6. Reforestation
Whenever stocking is reduced below either
25 percent of estimated crown closure, or
80 square feet of basal area per acre of trees
11 inches DBH or larger, 150 well-distributed
seedlings or saplings per acre must be
established. (These stocking provisions are
currently under review to increase stocking of
free-to-grow seedlings).
7. Road Construction and Maintenance
Locate roads to minimize risks of material
entering waters of the state by fitting the road
to the topography and avoiding steep, narrow
canyons, slide-prone areas, steep headwalls,
slumps, marshes, meadows, riparian
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
management areas, or existing drainage
channels. The rules require minimizing road
density in high-risk areas. Design roads to
minimum use standards adapted to the terrain
and soil, and to drain naturally by out-sloping
and through grade changes. Provide dips,
water bars, and cross drainage, and divert
water from natural drainage ways. Design
cut-and-fill slopes to minimize the risk of mass
soil movement. Deposit end-haul and other
excess material in stable locations above the
high water level and clear drainage ways of
woody debris. Stabilize exposed soil that is
potentially unstable or credible by using
seeding, compacting, rip-rapping, benching,
leaving light slashing, or similar means.
Minimize stream crossings, and cross streams
at right angles to the main channel. Design
water crossing structures to provide for
adequate fish passage, minimize impacts on
water quality, and have the capacity to
accommodate the 25-year storm. Design
culvert installations to prevent erosion of the
fill. Minimize machine activity in streambeds,
and install drainage structures on live streams
as soon as feasible. Changes are not to be
made in natural fish-bearing stream courses by
filling, by removal, or by relocation of the
channel, except by written approval from the
State Forester.
Maintain and repair active and inactive roads
as needed to minimize damage to waters of the
state. Restore road surface crown or out-slope
all roads prior to the rainy season. Clean
culvert inlets and outlets, drainage structures,
and ditches before and during the rainy season.
Prevent entry of road oil or other surface-
stabilizing material into waters of the state.
8. Harvesting
Select for each harvesting operation the
logging method, size of equipment, and type
of equipment best adapted to the given slope,
landscape, and soil materials to minimize soil
deterioration. Minimize machine and yarding
activity, fell timber directionally away from
waters, remove all slash from waters, and
retain or reestablish undergrowth vegetation.
Avoid tractor or wheel skidding on unstable,
wet, or easily compacted soils and on slopes
that exceed 35 percent, and locate skid trails
where sidecasting is kept to a minimum.
Locate skid and fire trails so they are not in
the riparian management area, except when
using temporary crossings. Avoid tractor
skidding in or through any stream. When
crossing streams, provide temporary structures
adequate to carry stream flow, which are to be
removed immediately after use. Install water
diversion structures or water bars on all tractor
or skidder trails before the rainy season.
Uphill cable yarding is recommended. Use a
yarding system that will minimize soil
disturbance when downhill yarding or when
yarding across high-risk sites. Avoid cable
yarding through Class I streams. If it is
necessary to yard across streams, swing the
yarded material free of the ground in the
aquatic and riparian areas. Minimize
disturbance to the channel and stream bank
vegetation when cable yarding in Class n
waters, and leave 75 percent of the original
shade along Class HSP waters.
Minimize landing size and locate landings on
stable areas. Do not locate landings hi
riparian management areas. Provide and
maintain cross drains, dips, water bars, and
other water diversion structures. Upon
completion of operations, stabilize potentially
unstable or credible soils by seeding or placing
slash, and reestablish drainage on landings
after use. Prevent entry of debris,
overburden, and other waste material
associated with harvesting from entering
waters of the state. Remove waste from
logging operations and dispose of waste
properly.
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&EPA
A riparian management area must be
maintained along each side of Class I waters.
In riparian management areas adjacent to Class
I waters, an average of 75 percent of the pre-
operation shade must be maintained over the
aquatic area; at least 50 percent of the pre-
operation tree canopy must be maintained; and
conifers must be retained in the half of the
riparian management area closest to the water
(or within an average 25 feet of the water,
whichever is greater).
State Contact:
David Degenhardt
Bept. of Forestry
(503) 378-2957
Other Available State Information
Brochures Waterbars; Road Maintenance;
Ditch Relief Culverts; Riparian
Protection
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PENNSYLVANIA
Reference: Pennsylvania Department of
Environmental Resources, Bureau of Soil and
Water Conservation. Controlling Erosion and
Sedimentation From Timber Harvesting
Operations.
This manual is currently being revised.
Three State laws pertain to forest harvesting
operations and water quality: the Clean
Streams Law, the Fish and Boat CodeAct
175, and the Dam Safety and Encroachment
Act The administrative code (Title 25,
Chapter 102) is designed to implement the
Clean Streams Law. Chapter 102 requires that
a permit be obtained prior to the
commencement of any eaithmbving activity in
excess of 25 acres.
The Clean Streams Law mandates that persons
conducting earth-disturbing activities must
develop a plan designed to implement and
maintain erosion and sedimentation prevention
measures. The soil erosion and sedimentation
control plan should address the following
areas: (1) design of the road system; (2) water
control structures; (3) stream crossings; (4) log
landings; (5) haul roads, skid roads, and skid
trails; (6) maintenance; (7) road use; and
(8) road and log landing retirement.
The Fish and Boat Code stipulates that no
person may alter or disturb any stream, stream
bed, fish habitat, water or watershed in any
manner that might cause damage to or loss of
such without necessary permits.
The Dam Safety and Waterway Management
Rules and Regulations require a permit to
construct, operate, maintain, modify, enlarge,
or abandon any dam, water obstruction, or
encroachment.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Road Systems
2. Water Control Structures
3. Stream Crossings
4. Log Landings
5. Haul Roads, Skid Roads, and
Skid Trails
6. Road and Log Landing Retirement
1. Road Systems
The siting and construction of roads should be
conducted using aerial photographs,
topographic maps, and soil surveys to aid in
the planning. Topographic maps should be
used to plan the road system around very steep
lands, spring seeps, boulders, rock-outcrops,
and other obstructions. Soil surveys can be
used to avoid sites with soils unsuitable for
road construction. When possible, construct
roads on side hills for good cross-drainage.
A road grade of 2 to 8 percent is desirable;
grades of up to 20 percent may be used for
short distances. When steep grades are
necessary, provide 300 feet of road above and
below where slopes are less than 10 percent.
Where stream crossings are necessary, cross at
a right angle to the stream and approach from
a gentle slope. Where roads will be
constructed near perennial streams, provide
adequate filter strips. The width of the filter
strip will depend on the slope of land between
the road and the stream. Table 28 presents the
recommended filter strip widths. Minimize
soil disturbance within filter strips, and apply
stabilization measures when soil is exposed and
likely to cause sedimentation.
To prevent excessive water runoff from road
surfaces, roads should be out-sloped or in-
sloped. In-sloped roads should have a slope
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
Table 28. Filter Strip Widths
Slope
(percent)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Filter Strip Width'
(feet)
25
45
65
85
105
125
145
165
"Widths should be doubled when harvesting is adjacent
to municipal water supplies.
rate of 0.25 to 0.375 inch per foot of road
width. In-sloping roads is preferred to out-
sloping.
2. Water Control Structures
The spacing for all water control structures
should protect against erosion and
sedimentation under severe conditions
Figures and tables are provided in the manual
with suggested spacing and construction
specifications for culverts. The minimum
recommended size for a culvert is 12 inches
The culverts should be installed with a slope of
2 to 4 percent and should be long enough to
extend at least 1 foot beyond the fill material
Kiprap or some other type of energy dissipator
should be placed at the culvert outlets.
Broad-based dips may be used instead of
culverts where no intermittent or perennial
streams are present. They may be used where
road grades do not exceed 10 percent A
figure and table are provided in the manual to
aid an instruction and spacing of broad-based
flros. The dip should divert water into
undisturbed areas or into energy dissipators
such as 3-inch-diameter crushed stone
Water bars are advantageous for water control
on retired roads and when the expected volume
of runoff will be marginal. A table and figure
are provided with recommended water bar
spacing and construction specifications.
3. Stream Crossings
Preplan road sites to limit the number of
stream crossings. When stream crossings are
unavoidable, cross perpendicular to the stream
flow. Culverts are the most common method
of stream crossing. Culverts should be placed
in the natural stream drainage channel and
should be graded the same as the stream
Avoid placing fill below the culvert to obtain
the grade. The culvert should be large enough
to carry potential storm flows. A table is
provided to aid in selection of an appropriately
sized culvert. Fords may be used for crossing
streams with haul roads but not for skid roads
or skid trails. When skid trails or skid roads
must cross a streams, culverts or temporary
moveable bridges should be used. Only
streams with low banks and solid streambeds
are suitable for ford crossings.
4. Log Landings
Retain adequate filter strips between log
landing locations and streams. Recommended
filter strip widths are provided in Table 28.
Diversion ditches should be constructed above
landings to prevent surface runoff from
flowing onto the landing. Disturb only the
area needed for the actual operations.
Provisions should be made to prevent water
from skid trails or skid roads from flowing
onto the log landing. Several types of
diversions are illustrated in the document.
5. Haul Roads, Skid Roads, and Skid
Trails
The slope, soil type and condition, and surface
drainage should be considered prior to
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
constructing haul roads and skid roads. Skid
roads should be designed to avoid problem
areas such as spring seeps, streams, rocky
places, and long lengths of constant slope.
Keep the grades of skid trails and roads as
shallow as the topography will permit; do not
go straight up the slope. If skid trails must be
placed straight up the slope, the construction
of water bars should be considered. Never '
skid through or across stream channels or
spring seeps. Bridges or culverts should be
installed to cross streams.
Prevent the accumulation of surface water on
road surfaces by using dips, water bars,
culverts, in-sloping, and/or out-sloping to
divert water from the road surface. Maintain
road surfaces in a manner that prevents ruts,
curbs, or logging debris from restricting
drainage. Overhanging trees should be
removed to facilitate road surface drying.
Road surfaces should be graded occasionally
and dips, water bars, and other diversion
structures should be reshaped. Reduce or
eliminate traffic during unfavorable weather.
6. Road and Log Landing Retirement
The erosion and sedimentation plan developed
should have provisions for the retirement of
, haul roads .and landings. The roads should
have their surfaces smoothed and reshaped.
Culverts should be replaced with water bars,
broad-based dips, or ditches. If culverts are
covered by more than 2 feet of fill, consider
leaving them in place, but include provisions
for their maintenance. Remove all temporary
stream crossings. Seed, mulch, .lime, and
fertilize critical areas near streams or where
credible or otherwise unstable soils exist. A
table is provided with seeding mixtures and
rates.
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4>EPA
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RHODE ISLAND
Reference: Cassidy G.J., and J.B. Aron.
Best Management Practices: DRAFT. Rhode
Island Department of Environmental
Management, Division of Forest Resources.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Logging Roads and Skid Trails
a. Planning and Construction
b. Maintenance
2. Landings
3. Wetlands
4. Forest Protection
a. Insects and Disease
b. Fire
l.a. Logging Roads and Skid Trails:
Planning and Construction
Preplan the location of access system
components using topographic, soils, wetland,
and vegetation maps in addition to field .
reconnaissance. Maintenance of existing
drainage patterns is desirable. Determine
landing sites before locating roads and trails.
Locate roads on side slopes away from wet
areas, streams, ledges, steep slopes, and rock
outcrops. The grades of logging roads and
skid trails should be less than 10 percent, with
3 to 5 percent being the most desirable. Avoid
long, straight grades and occasionally break
the grade to provide surface drainage.
Construct skid trails and roads from the
highest elevation down.
Streambeds should never be used for roads.
Retain a filter strip between watercourses and
logging roads. A table is provided that
recommends widths for filter strips based on
slope. However, width should be determined
by site conditions and should be greater when
the watercourse is in a municipal watershed,
contains important fisheries or wildlife, or has
steep banks. Minimize the number of stream
crossings, and cross streams perpendicular to
stream flow. Stream crossings should be
located where the bank and Streambeds are
stable and where the approaches will be fairly
level. If possible, use existing bridges or
culverts.
Install water diversion structures where needed
to facilitate drainage of water from the road
surface, and discharge runoff away from
streams. Suggested distances between culverts
and broad-based dips are provided.
l.b. Logging Roads and Skid Trails:
Maintenance
When roads and skid trails are properly
located and constructed, maintenance problems
are minor. To maintain roads in good
condition and to reduce erosion, avoid use
during poor weather and install temporary .
drainage structures when operations will be
delayed. Periodic grading may be necessary to
maintain the road surface at its original
gradient.
Upon completion of harvesting operations,
eliminate ditches and remove ruts, berms,
damaged trees, and other hazardous obstacles.
Restore stream crossings to their original
condition. Temporary drainage structures
should be replaced with permanent measures.
Disturbed areas should be revegetated to
stabilize the soil. Access to the areas should
be restricted.
2. Landings
Landings should be located on slight slopes
outside wetland areas and should be well-
drained. Use hay bales or other erosion
control devices to reduce erosion and
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
sedimentation. Gravel the entrance to prevent
mud and other debris from being transported
onto paved roads. Upon completion of the
harvesting operation, regrade and seed landing
areas. 6
3. Wetlands
Roads in wetland areas should be constructed
and maintained in accordance with the best
management practices previously outlined and
every attempt should be made to retain the
site's natural hydrologic flow and
characteristics. Use existing bridges or
culverts when crossing streams. Temporary
crossings are permissible, but disturbed areas
should be restored to their original condition.
Forested wetlands may be harvested, but post-
harvest stocking must be at least 50 percent on
the appropriate stocking guide. Harvesting
should not occur more frequently than every
3 years. During periodic harvests, care should
be taken to avoid soil puddling and
compaction, and to prevent damage to the
residual stand. Harvest should be conducted at
A buffer zone where forestry activities are
limited should be established to protect the
watercourse from degradation. The optimal
size of the zone is related to the slope! depth
to water table, soil type, the type of
vegetation, and intensity of management, but
the zone must be at least 25 feet wide.
Do not disturb vernal pools when logging
locate landings and skid trails away from
these area. Avoid compacting or disturbing
the .S0ll in or near the pools and avoid creating
^greater than 6 inches deep within 200 fee!
of the pools. Retain an uncut buffer strip
adjacent to vernal pools that is at least 25 feet
wide.
4.a. Forest Protection: Insects and Disease
Periodically inspect forest stands for signs of
forest pests. Cultural treatments are
recommended to control insects and disease
These include silvicultural treatments that alter
forest stands to reduce the likelihood of attack
and/or to prevent losses. An area will be less
susceptible to a large outbreak if diversity is
encouraged. Perform sanitation treatments to
remove the source of the infestation. Change
stand composition to less susceptible species
by favoring non-host species when thinning or
planting. Thinning treatments can also be
performed to promote the growth and vigor of
desirable trees. Overmature stands can be
CTOps
4.b. Forest Protection: Fire
To protect forest stands from fire, use spark
arresters on equipment, reduce fuels, and
prohibit smoking on high and extreme fire
days. Provide and maintain access roads to all
parts of forest stands to aid in wildfire
fighting. Do not use fire to reduce slash
without the proper permits from the
appropriate authorities.
State Contact:
Tom Bourn
Director of Forestry
(401) 647-3367
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
SOUTH CAROLINA
References: South Carolina Forestry
Association. 1988. Voluntary Forest Practice
Guidelines for South Carolina', and South
Carolina Forestry Commission. 1989. Best
Management Practices for South Carolina's
Forested Wetlands.
A revised manual that will include wetlands
and more recommendations related to nonpoint
source pollution is being prepared. South
Carolina has an ongoing biannual monitoring
program to check for BMP implementation
compliance as well as effectiveness. The
effectiveness monitoring uses the benthic
macroinvertebrate method.
: JD.£<
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1 3.
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Access Roads
Wetiands
Prescribed Burning
Fertilization
Harvesting
Site Preparation
Use of Herbicides
1
1. Access Roads
Plan access roads using topographic maps, soil
surveys, and aerial photographs where
available. Fit the roads to the topography,
using ridge tops and developing the road along
the contour. Avoid steep, narrow ridges, slide
areas, gullies, marshes, stream channels, and
ponds. Plan roads to avoid stream crossings
whenever possible. When stream crossings are
necessary, construct structures perpendicular to
the stream channel.
During road construction balance cuts and fills
to minimize borrow pit areas and the amount
of soil that must be moved. Where
construction of bridges is necessary, they
should have sufficient capacity to
accommodate increases in stream flow.
Culverts should also be sized to accommodate
increases in stream flow. Avoid building
bridges during wet weather when the threat of
erosion is increased. Clear stream channels of
all debris produced during the road
construction. Seed, fertilize, and mulch to
insure a good vegetative cover on disturbed
soils. Provide adequate cross drainage on road
surfaces, and divert water into areas with good
ground cover.
Maintain road surfaces by grading and out-
sloping when necessary. Inspect and clean all
drainage structures at regular intervals. Where
natural cover will not be established quickly,
seed abandoned roads with grass to prevent
excess water runoff and erosion.
2. Wetlands
Road construction within forested wetlands
should be kept to a minimum and should
parallel the flow of water when possible.
Specifications for road construction are
provided in the manual. Natural generation
should be encouraged as much as possible.
Harvest activities should be conducted during
dry periods to minimize water quality impacts
and soil compaction. Avoid felling trees into
active or well-defined intermittent streams;
trees felled into streams should be removed as
soon as practical. Locate log decks away from
streams on the highest ground possible.
Wheeled or tracked vehicles should not be
used within 40 feet of a navigable stream if
slopes are less than 20 percent, and 80 feet if
slopes are greater than 20 percent.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
3. Prescribed Burning
Before prescribed burning may be conducted,
the landowner must authorize the use of
prescribed burning on his/her land (Section 16-
11-150 of the Code of Laws of South Carolina
1976). Weather forecasts must be monitored
to provide information on sudden wind shifts.
Avoid burning in areas subject to severe
erosion.
4. Fertilization
Fertilizer applications should be conducted
according to label requirements. Soil samples
should be analyzed to assure proper fertilizer
selection, application method, and application
XotC*
5. Harvesting
Landings and skid trails should be limited in
number and size to prevent excess soil
movement into streams. Keep stream
crossings to a minimum; where crossings are
necessary, provide protection to the stream
bank and cross at right angles to the stream
channel: Skid trail grades should be kept to a
minimum. Exercise caution when conducting
harvest operations with buffer strips alone
streams. Fell and skid trees away from
streams to minimize damage to the stream
bank. Retain a streamside management zone
to minimize soil disturbance adjacent to stream
banks. The width of the SMZ will depend on
the size and flow of the stream, adjacent
topography and soil, and shade requirements to
protect stream water temperature. Service all
Harvesting equipment away from streams and
other water bodies. Encourage the proper
disposal of general refuse, litter, and waste oil
and lubricants associated with timber
harvesting operations.
6. Site Preparation
Mechanically prepare the site along the
contour of the land. Of the mechanical site
preparation techniques, chopping has the least
impact on the site. On extremely steep slopes
use an approved herbicide rather than '
mechanical site preparation. Windrow debris
along the contour or in gullies or skid roads to
stabilize them. If drainage ditches are to be
needed, they should be constructed prior to
any reforestation effort.
7. Use of Herbicides
The application of herbicides should be
conducted with the assistance of professional
foresters. Aerial application of pesticides is
not permitted within 80 feet of each side of a
navigable stream.
State Contact:
Tim Adams
South Carolina Forestry Commission
(803) 737-8800
Other Available State Information
Manuals/
Books
Brochures
Videos
Best Management Practices's
for South Carolina's Forested
Wetlands; A Survey of
Voluntary Compliance of
Forestry Best Management
Practices
Let's Lead the Way with Best
Management Practices;
Forestry BMPs... A Woodland
Owner's Guide to Good
Stewardship
Let's Clean Up Our Act; Let's
Lead the Way
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
TENNESSEE
Reference: Tennessee Department of
Conservation, Division of Forestry. 1989.
Best Management Practices for Silvicultural
and Other Forest Activities in Tennessee.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Access Roads
2. Harvesting
3. Mechanical Site Preparation
4. Machine Planting of Tree Seedlings
5. Prescribed Fire
6. Pesticide Use
7. Livestock Exclusion
8. Streamside Management Zones
9. Revegetation of Disturbed Areas
1. Access Roads
Carefully plan road locations prior to
construction activities. Locate roads near
crests of ridges on side slopes and away from
streams. Avoid swamps, seeps, fragile soils,
steep slopes, and other obstacles. Establish
Streamside management zones between
watercourses and roads. The widths of the
SMZs will vary depending on the steepness of
the slope. Minimize the number of stream
crossings, and when necessary, cross
perpendicular to stream flow. .
Construct roads several weeks prior to
commencing harvesting activities to allow the
roads jo settle. Avoid construction during wet
periods. When clearing the right-of-way, push
logging debris to the downhill side and evenly
spread it to serve as a filter. Road grades
should range from 3 to 10 percent. Grades up
to 20 percent are acceptable provided road
drainage structures are installed. Balance cuts
and fills. Stumps, logs, and other logging
debris should not be incorporated into fill
material.
The type and number of road drainage
structures will depend on the slope, soil type,
and equipment used. Diversion of water from
the road surface may be accomplished through
out-sloping, in-sloping, crowning, dips, and
culverts. For roads constructed on gentle and
moderate slopes, out-slope the road toward the
fill bank at the rate of V* -inch per foot. Roads
with steep sharp turns or slippery soils should
be in-sloped and have cross drainage installed.
Crown roads on flat or gentle slopes. Dips
may be used to divert water from road
surfaces with slopes less than 10 percent.
Culverts should be at least IS inches in
diameter and should be installed so that at least
2 feet of pipe extends beyond the fill material
on both ends. Dips and turnouts should be
constructed on roads to divert runoff water
before it enters streams. Protect discharge
area with heavy litter, grass sod, rock, or
other material that will dissipate the runoff.
Specifications for drainage structure
installation and spacing are provide in the
manual.
Stream crossings should be avoided when
possible. When necessary, fords, culverts,
and bridges should be constructed at right
angles to the stream, but should not interfere
with stream flow. Fords are acceptable only
when stream bottoms are solid and streams are
too wide for culverts or bridges. Culverts are
recommended for crossing relatively small
streams; specifications for culvert installation
are provided in the manual.
Inspect roads after periods of rain, and remove
all sediment and debris from drainage
structures. Upon completion of operations,
roads should be graded and smoothed. Water
diversion structures should be installed to
divert surface water into vegetated areas.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
Roads constructed on steeper slopes should be
seeded to revegetate as quickly as possible.
2. Harvesting
Log landing locations should be planned in
advance of harvest operations; haul roads and
skid trails should be located to reach the
landings. Landings should be located away
from streams to maintain appropriate SMZs.
Log landings should be constructed to allow
for natural drainage from the deck, but the
slope should not exceed 5 percent. Landings
should not be larger than necessary for the
logging operation. Water turnouts should be
installed above the landings to divert surface
water around the landing. Landings should be
tcvegetated following logging activities.
Skid trafls should be planned in advance to
reduce their number and impact. They should
te located on grades less than 10 percent,
although grades up to 30 percent are
acceptable for short distances. Skid trails
should not cross swampy areas, seeps, springs,
or rocky or steep slopes. Skid trails should be
constructed along the contour when possible,
with grade breaks as often as possible. Logs
should be skidded uphill following a zig-zag
pattern. SMZs should be established adjacent
to streams. Avoid skidding within SMZs and
streams; cross at right angles to the stream
when necessary. Water diversion structures
should be installed on skid trails, especially
above steep pitches and below seeps and
springs. Retired skid trails should have water
bars installed or repaired and should be
shaped, smoothed, and revegetated.
Logging debris should be kept out of drains,
streams, and other bodies of water. When '
necessary, remove logging debris from the
stream and place it above the high water mark
Portable sawmills and chip harvesters should '
oe located as for from streams as possible
Service and maintain vehicles and equipment
in areas where spills, oil, grease, or other
toxic substances cannot enter streams.
Provisions should be made to dispose of
hazardous materials, human wastes, and
garbage.
3. Mechanical Site Preparation
Site preparation methods should be chosen
based on the amount, size and type of
vegetation present; slope; and soil erodibility.
Choose a method that disturbs as little soil as
possible. Chemical treatments should be
favored on steep slopes and highly credible
soils. Mechanical methods should be confined
to slopes less than 30 percent. SMZs should
be established between site preparation areas
and streams. Mechanical site preparation
should be conducted along the contour. Avoid
operating heavy equipment during wet
weather. Locate windrows away from drains
to prevent debris from washing into streams.
Windrows should be spaced between 100 and
300 feet, with occasional breaks to prevent
damming.
4. Machine Planting of Tree Seedlings
Operate tree planting machines along the
contour of the land when possible. Do not
operate on slopes exceeding 20 percent.
5. Prescribed Fire
Prescribed burning must be conducted under
strict wind, temperature, and humidity
conditions. Avoid hot burns on sloping lands
because the destruction of litter increases the
chance of raindrop erosion. Avoid burning on
excessively steep slopes or on highly credible
lands. Firelines should be constructed in
straight lines, avoiding abrupt changes in
direction. When possible, firelines should not
be constructed on slopes exceeding 10 percent
although slopes of up to 30 percent for short
distances are acceptable. Construct water bars
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
and wing ditches along the firelines at
recommended intervals. SMZs should be
maintained between the prescribed burn area
and streams. Firelines on steep slopes should
be revegetated as needed.
6. Pesticide Use
Pesticides should be stored where there is no
danger of release into the environment.
Mixing activities should be conducted as far
from water bodies as possible. Weather
conditions such as rain, wind speed,
temperature, and humidity should be
monitored during pesticide applications to
prevent drift and volatilization. Pesticides
should never be applied directly to the water
unless the pesticide is approved for application
to water. Buffer strips of 100 feet for aerial,
50 feet for ground vehicle, 25 feet for hand
spray, and 15 feet for hand dispersion
applications should be maintained. Spray
equipment and containers should be cleaned
away from bodies of water. Excess chemical
should be disposed of within the treated area.
Dispose of containers in legal disposal areas or
in accordance with label instructions.
7. Livestock Exclusion
Woodland grazing causes more loss of soil
from Tennessee forestland than any other
activity. Livestock should be excluded from
woodlands when slopes exceed 10 percent.
Plant shade trees on gentle slopes for livestock
use.
8. Streamside Management Zones
The width of streamside management zones is
dependent on the slope of the land between
disturbed areas and streams. Table 29
presents the recommended SMZ widths.
Commercial harvest within the SMZ is
permitted, but the logs should be removed by
Table 29. Recommended SMZ Widths
Slope
(percent)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
SMZ width
(feet)
25
45
65
85
105
125
145
winching or animal skidding when possible.
Avoid equipment operation within the SMZ.
Trees should be felled away from streams.
When trees are felled into the water, however,
they should be removed by winching. Harvest
debris should be removed from the stream and
placed above the high water mark of the
stream. Pesticide use is permitted within the ;
SMZ. At least 50 percent of the trees adjacent
to stream must be left to provide shade to the
stream. Mechanical site preparation is
prohibited within the SMZ.
9. Revegetation of Disturbed Areas
Road surfaces, cuts, fills, and ditches should
be immediately revegetated after rjoad
construction. Skid trails, log landings, and
other areas disturbed by harvesting activities
should be revegetated as soon as possible after
logging operations cease. Road surfaces
should be shaped and smoothed prior to
seeding. Heavily compacted areas may need
scarification or disking to promote water
infiltration. Seeded areas should be mulched
to hold the seed, lime, and fertilizer in place.
Seeding, fertilizer, and lime application rates
are provided.
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vvEPA
State Contact:
Robin Bible
Forest Hydrologist
Water Quality.Management Program
(615)360-0737
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Best Management Practices for
Books Protection of the Forested
Wetlands of Tennessee (1990);
Logger's Guide to Forestry
BMPs; A Nonpoint Source
Management Plan for Forestry
Activities in Tennessee; BMPs
and Timber Harvesting
Brochures Clean Water from Tennessee's
Forests; Forestry BMPs Work:
Pickett State Forest; BMP
Effectiveness Study
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
TEXAS
Reference: Texas Forestry Association.
1989. Texas Best Management Practices for
Silviculture.
This manual is in the final stages of revision
and is being reviewed by the Soil and Water
Conservation Board's various committees and
affected soil and water conservation districts.
Some significant changes will be made to the
previous BMPs. Most notably, SMZs will be
required on intermittent streams as well as
perennial streams.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Planning
2. Road Construction and Maintenance
3. Harvesting
4. Mechanical Site Preparation/Planting
5. Fire
6. Silvicultural Chemicals
7. Streamside Management Zones
1. Planning
Use topographic maps, aerial photographs, and
soil surveys in combination with field
reconnaissance to determine site conditions and
plan operations. Use natural drainage channels
as harvest setting boundaries and plan skidding
away from these channels. Setting boundaries
should use topographic terrain, roads, and
forest area size consistent with available
logging equipment, planting schedules, and
other silvicultural management objectives.
Setting design should be planned to balance
skidding distances against road densities, and
to avoid leaving narrow, unmanageable strips
of timber susceptible to windthrow. On wet
soils with seasonal water problems, schedule
operations to minimize adverse impacts on
soils and water quality.
2. Road Construction and Maintenance
Locate roads along the contour and avoid
confined terrain or natural drainage channels,
marshes, wet meadows, and Streamside
management zones. Road grades should range
from 2 to 10 percent. Steeper gradients, not
exceeding 15 percent, are permissible for
distances not exceeding 200 feet. Minimize
the number of stream crossings and cross
perpendicular to stream flow. Use the
minimum design standard and width necessary
to accommodate the anticipated traffic load.
Remove or deck right-of-way timber outside
borrow ditches. Balance cuts and fills so that
excavated material will be deposited in
roadway fill sections, and construct cut-and-fill
slopes at the normal angle of repose or less.
Do not place sidecast or fill material below the
ordinary high water mark of any stream except
where needed to stabilize stream crossings.
Gravel the road surface if necessary to
maintain stability. Seed and mulch areas with
high erosion potential.
Design roads to drain naturally using .
crowning, ditches, culverts, dips, and/or out-
sloping. Provide cross drainage where
needed. Install ditches, culverts; cross drains,
and whig ditches at low points hi the road
gradient. Cross drains, relief culverts, and
wing ditches should not discharge onto
credible soils or over credible fill, but should
discharge onto undisturbed forest floor or
energy-absorbing materials. Size culverts to
accommodate anticipated water flow.
Specifications for the construction and spacing
of drainage and erosion control structures are
provided in the guide.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
Construct stream crossings to minimize
disturbance to banks and existing channels.
Do not construct stream crossings during
periods of high water flow. Crossing
structures should not impede stream flow or
fish passage. Culverts should have a minimum
diameter of 15 inches. A chart for
determining culvert size is provided in the
guide and is based upon soil type and
watershed drainage area. Use fords only when
rutting or siltation would be minimal, and
minimize machine activity in the streambed.
Remove excess material and woody debris
generated during construction from streams
and drainageways, and deposit above the
ordinary high water mark. Remove temporary
crossings immediately after use.
Restrict traffic on roads during unfavorable
weather conditions to minimize erosion and
maintenance needs. The road surface should
be crowned or out-sloped to dissipate surface
runoff and minimize erosion of the roadbed.
Remove obstructions and debris from ditches
and culverts. Revegetate or otherwise stabilize
exposed soil areas. Periodically inspect closed
f «>ads, and reestablish vegetation between
roads and streams, if necessary.
3. Harvesting
Locate landings and portable sawmill sites
prior to road construction. Landing locations
should minimize the adverse impact of
skidding on the natural water drainage pattern
and should be on firm, well-drained ground at
least 50 feet from SMZs. Landings should
have a slight slope to provide for drainage.
Disperse runoff water from landings and
roads. Provide the shading, soil stabilization
and water filtering effects of vegetation alone
streams.
Do not use stream channels as skid trails
Locate skid and fire trails so that they do not
run parallel to any stream when they are
within the average high water level of the
stream. When stream crossing is necessary,
use the most direct route, taking advantage of
natural fords with firm bottoms, stable banks,
and gentle slopes along approaches. Skid
trails on slopes should have occasional breaks
in grade and should be water barred and
seeded when necessary.
Fell trees directionally away from streams,
parallel to the skidding direction and with butts
toward the landing. Do not harvest trees on
the banks of streams within the SMZ. When
cable yarding across streams cannot be
avoided, streamside vegetation should be left
undisturbed to the maximum extent possible.
Remove any logging debris that accidentally
enters watercourses.
Service equipment away from streams and in
areas where accidental spillage would not
result in stream contamination. Debris on
landings.should not be deposited into drainages
or streams. Mulch or seed erosion-prone
areas. Remove litter associated with the
logging operations from the area and dispose
of it in designated landfills.
4. Mechanical Site Preparation/Planting
Plan equipment use to minimize site
disturbance as much as possible, especially in
the SMZs. Avoid heavy mechanical site
preparation on slopes greater than 30 percent
or on highly erosive soils. Prepare and plant
sites and construct windrows along the
contour. Do hot locate windrows in SMZs or
stream channels. Avoid disking on steep
slopes and on highly credible soils. Provide
water outlets on bedded or furrowed areas, and
discharge water onto vegetated surfaces.
Follow approximate contours when ripping.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
5. lire
Do not use high-intensity burns. Install water
bars and wing ditches on firebreaks to
minimize erosion.
6. Silvicultural Chemicals
All chemicals should be stored, used, and
disposed of in accordance with applicable
federal, state, and local regulations. Prevent
leakage of chemicals during transportation,
storage, mixing, or application. Do not use
water from private springs, streams, ponds, or
wells to mix chemicals. Mix chemicals and
clean tanks only where possible spills will not
enter surface water. If a spill occurs,
construct a dike around the spill, use absorbent
material to soak up the liquid, and prevent the
spill from flowing into surface water.
Immediately notify the Texas Water
Commission or Office of Emergency Services.
Plan chemical applications to avoid direct and
indirect entry of chemicals into surface waters
and the SMZ. Do not aerially apply chemicals
where stream pollution can occur through
drift, and use a spray device capable of
immediate shutoff to stop chemical application
during turns and over open water. Use
injection or stump treatment herbicide methods
in areas immediately adjacent to open waters.
Do not apply pesticides to trees or vegetation
mat exists on eroded slopes, gullies, and
drainages, or to any fragile areas subject to
erosion.
Clean equipment and containers where
chemicals will not enter surface waters. Rinse
empty containers and mixing apparatus three
times before disposal, and apply rinse water in
spray form to the treated area.
7. Streamside Management Zones
Retain an SMZ at least 50 feet wide on each
side of perennial watercourses. SMZs may
also be desirable on intermittent streams.
Locate roads, skid trails, and logging decks
outside the SMZ. Restrict management
activities causing pollution or erosion. Log
mature timber carefully and selectively so as
not to destroy the filtering effects of the SMZ.
Retain enough trees and understory vegetation
in the SMZ to provide adequate protection
from solar radiation, impact from erosion, and
the placement or washing of debris into the
stream. Remove all harvesting debris from the
watercourse. If vegetative cover is removed
from a stream bank or SMZ, reestablish cover
as soon as possible. Do not use fertilizers in
the SMZ.
State Contact:
Roger Lord
Forest Resource Development Dept.
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry <
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
VERMONT
Reference: Vermont Department of Forests,
Parks, and Recreation. 1987. Acceptable
Management Practices for Maintaining Water
Quality on Logging Jobs in Vermont.
Vermont's Water Quality Statutes require
permits for discharges of any waste into waters
of the state. However, individual permits are
not required for logging discharges if
acceptable management practices (AMPs) are
being applied. The Statutes require that AMPs
be implemented. If mere is a discharge from
forestry activities and neither has a permit
been obtained nor have AMPs been
implemented, the landowner and logger are
liable and subject to enforcement action,
penalties, or both. In the following summary,
AMPs are in italics. The remaining
information is supplementary material that will
assist with the implementation of AMPs.
I ACCEPTABLE MANAGEMENT
PRACTICES AND GUIDELINES
1. Truck Roads
2. Skid Trails
3. Surface Water and Stream Crossings
4. Protective Strips
5. Log Landings
1. Truck Roads
Plan roads to retain adequate filter strips
between roads and streams and to locate
stream crossings where they will cause the
least disturbance. Old roads should be used
when acceptably located. Avoid rocky
outcrops, ledges, swampy places, and other
areas presenting construction problems. Roads
should not be constructed on slopes greater
than 10 percent, but steeper roads may be
constructed for distances not exceeding 300
feet.
Road surfaces should be adequately drained,
and runoff should be diverted under or away
from the road surface before gaining sufficient
velocity to erode ditches. If road grades are
greater than 10 percent, culverts may be
needed to divert water. Road drainage from
grades less than 10 percent where no streams
cross the road may be accomplished using
broad-based dips. Drainage structures should
be installed with a gradient of at least
4 degrees when ledge and rock permit. Tables
and figures are provided in the manual with
suggested spacing for drainage structures.
Culverts should have a minimum diameter of
15 inches. A table in the manual provides
culvert sizes and spacing. Drainage ditches
shall not terminate where they will deposit
water directly into streams or other surface
waters. Design ditches to discharge onto
undisturbed, vegetative land. Properly
stabilize drainage ditches to minimize erosion.
All drainage structures should be periodically
inspected and maintained.
Bridges and culverts constructed on permanent
roads should be left in place and regularly
maintained. Bridges and culverts on
temporary roads should be removed at the
conclusion of harvesting operations, and
stream banks should be stabilized.
Upon completion of harvesting operations,
water bars should be installed at proper
intervals along temporary roads. The
specifications for construction are provided,
but water bars should be at least 8 inches deep
and installed with a 4 degree gradient when
ledge and rock permit. Deep water bars
should be used on closed roads; back-to-back
water bars located at the beginning of closed
roads will discourage entrance. Water bars
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
&EFA
should divert surface runoff into areas of
undisturbed vegetation.
2. Skid Trails
Plan skid trails to retain adequate filter strips
between roads and streams and to locate
stream crossings where they will cause the
least disturbance. Skid trails should be
constructed to match the topography of the
land and should avoid stream banks, rocky
places, and steep grades. Skid trails shall not
be constructed straight up the slope; rather
they should proceed at a gradual angle across
the slope. Sections of up to 300 feet may be
constructed on gradients up to 20 percent.
Skid trails should be drained using out-sloping
turnouts, broad-based dips on grades of less
than 10 percent, or pole culverts. Tables in
the manual provide the recommended spacing
for these structures. Silt fencing, haybale
erosion checks, or -water diversions shall be
used to prevent sediment from skid trails from
entering streams or other surface waters.
Haybale erosion checks may not be necessary
during frozen, stable winter conditions.
After harvesting, ruts in skid trails should be
filled and smoothed. Water bars should be
installed at proper intervals to divert water
from road surfaces into undisturbed litter or
vegetation. Construct barriers to prevent off-
road vehicles from accessing retired skid
xoads.
3. Surface Water and Stream Crossings
AH logging activities should be kept out of
stream channels, except for construction of
stream-crossing structures. The construction
of stream crossings should be timed to coincide
with low water levels and be completed as
quickly as possible. All streams should be
crossed perpendicular to stream flow. Truck
road crossings over permanent streams should
use a bridge or culvert. Bridges should be
used whenever possible and should be located
where the stream channel is straight with an
unobstructed flow. The roadway leading up to
a bridge, culvert, or ford should be nearly
level for a distance of 50 feet on each side of
the stream. Culvert size selection should be
based on the drainage area and should be able
to accommodate the largest potential stream
flows. Streams may be forded by skid trails
only where streambeds have stable beds and
stable gradual approaches. Streams may also
be crossed by brushing-in during frozen winter
conditions; all brushed-in material should be
removed from the stream channel when skid
trail use has been completed or before spring
runoff. The turnups of broad-based dips shall
be installed on truck or skid roads before they
cross a stream. Exposed soil within 25 feet of
a stream must be seeded and mulched with
mixtures and application rates provided.
Streams and all other water bodies should be
kept free of slash and other logging debris.
After harvest, all nonpermanent structures
must be removed from streams and the channel
should be restored to its preharvest condition.
Permanent culverts left in streams must be
sized according to specifications provided in
the guide. Following the close of operation,
all approaches to streams, between the stream
and the first water diversion of either side, and
all disturbed stream banks should be stabilized
and seeded and mulched at mixtures and
application rates provided. This should be
accomplished within 1 year of the completion
of logging operations.
4. Protective Strips
Retain a protective strip along streams and all
other water bodies in which only light thinning
or selection harvesting can occur. Log
transport machinery must remain at least
25 feet from a stream or water body. The
width of the protective 'strips are based on the
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slope of the land between roads or harvesting
activities and the streams. Table 30 presents
the required protective strip widths.
Table 30. Protective Strip Widths
Slope
(percent)
0-10
11-20
21-30
31-40*
Protective Strip
Width (feet)
50
70
90
110
'Add 20 feet for each additional 10 percent side slope
5. Log Landings
log landings shall be located on level or
gently sloping, stable ground. Locate the
landings away from low or poorly drained
soils. Landings should be no larger than ,
necessary to conduct operations. Landings
shall not be located with protective strips.
Divert upslope drainage from skid roads away
from the landing area. Silt fencing, haybale
erosion checks, or water diversions shall be
used to prevent sediment from entering
streams.
After the completion of harvest activities, log
landings shall be graded and water diversions
installed. Areas of exposed soil within the
protective strip along waterways shall be
seeded and mulched according to the
specifications provided.
State Contact:
Brian Stone
Dept. of Forests, Parks, and Recreation
103 South Maine Street
Waterbury.VT 05671-0602
or
John Maciejowski
Dept. of Forests, Parks, and Recreation
RR 1. Box 33
North Springfield, VT 05150
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Wetland Rules and Regulations:
Books What They Mean to Your
Logging Operation in Vermont
Videos Plank Skid-trail Bridge
Construction
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VIRGINIA
Reference: Virginia Department of Forestry.
1989. Forestry Best Management Practices for
Water Quality in Virginia.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Preharvest Planning
2. Haul Roads
3. Skid Trails
4. Log Decks, Landings and Portable
Sawmill Locations
5. Streamside Management Zone
6. Drainage Structures
7. Stream Crossings
& Site Preparation
9. Revegetation of Bare Soil Areas
10. Wildfire Control and Reclamation
Forested Wetlands
11. Natural Regeneration
12. Preharvest Planning
13. Truck Haul Roads
14. Skid Trails
15. Log Decks
16. Streamside Management Zone
17. Cross Drainages
1. Preharvest Planning
The purpose of preharvest planning is to
identify efficient harvest operations and to use
appropriate BMPs to maintain water quality.
Before harvesting, a plan should be developed
that includes the following information:
property boundaries, streams and drainages,
soil restrictions, slope, environmental
concerns, approximate locations of haul roads
and skid trail locations, potential log landings,
portable sawmill locations, stream or drainage
crossings, and Streamside management zones.
The timing of harvest should also be included
in the plan. A site review should be
performed to determine potential road
locations, log landings, and streams and wet
areas.
2. Haul Roads
All roads should follow the contour as much as
possible with the grade ranging from 2 to
10 percent. Gradients exceeding 15 percent
may be used for reaches not exceeding 200
feet. Change the. grade of the road frequently
rather than using long, straight, continuous
gradients. On soils with severe erosion
potential, grades should be maintained at
8 percent or less, but may exceed 12 percent
for reaches less than 150 feet provided
measures are taken to prevent erosion. Cross
drainage may be necessary to prevent erosion
from the steeper roads.
Intermittent or perennial streams should be
crossed using bridges, culverts, or rock fords
at as close to right angles to the stream
channel as possible. Structures should be
sized appropriately so that stream flow or fish
passage is not disturbed. Water turnouts
should be installed prior to stream crossings to
divert runoff water into undisturbed areas of
the Streamside management zones. With the
exception of stream crossings, roads should be
constructed at least 50 feet from the stream.
Fords may be used to cross streams when the
stream banks are stable and the stream bottom
is hard.
Out-slope roads where gradient and soil
permit. In-slope the road toward banks on
sharp turns, on roads with gradients exceeding
15 percent, and on clay or slippery soils. Use
cross drainage on in-sloped or crowned roads
to limit the travel distance of runoff water;
broad-based or rolling dips should be used on
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in-sloped or crowned roads when gradients
begin to exceed 2 percent for more than
200 feet. Gravel, wooden mats, or other
means should be used to prevent mud from
being carried from haul roads. Single-track
roads should have a minimum width of
10 feet; increase the width as necessary on
curves and turnouts. Vertical road banks
should not exceed 5 feet in height; cuts more
than 5 feet should be sloped to at least a 2:1
xatio and seeded. Install rip-rap at the outlets
of culverts and dips to adsorb and spread
waters. Cut trees alongside roads to allow
sunlight to ensure drying of the road.
To maintain haul roads, traffic should be
restricted from haul roads during unfavorable
conditions such as wet soil. Haul only during
dry weather on wet soils, erodible soils, or
road gradients exceeding 10 percent that do
not have erosion protection. Roads should be
Kept free of debris and ruts to allow water to
drain from the road surface. Regrade roads
when the average rut depth exceeds 6 inches
over a distance of greater than 50 feet. When
all harvest activities are completed, the road
should be reshaped. Ensure that drainage
systems are open, and seed all bare sort greater
than or equal to 5 percent slope or subject to
erosion along the access roads, main skid
trails, and log landings.
3. Skid Trails
Log landings should be located prior to laying
out road approaches. Gradients on skid trails
should be no steeper than 15 percent, except
where required to avoid boundary lines
sensitive areas, or other areas not accessible
Stad trails must be located outside SMZs.
Where stream crossings are needed, culverts
Should be used. Any skid trail that must cross
a perennial or intermittent stream should use a
bndge or culvert of acceptable design. Logs
should not be skidded through perennial or
intermittent streams. Approaches to water
crossings should be at as near to right angles
to the stream chaiael as possible. Skid roads
should climb up-slope on a slant or zig-zag
pattern. Upon completion of skidding, water
bars should be installed immediately. The
intervals for water bars are presented in
Table 31. ~ '
Table 31. Water
Slope
(percent)
2
5
10
15
20
30
Bar Intervals
Distance
(feet)
250
135
80,
60
45
35
Water bars should be installed at a 30 to
45 degree angle downslope, with ends open to
prevent water accumulation behind them. A
permanent vegetative cover should be
established oh exposed roads, trails, and
landings that are greater than or equal to
5 percent slope or subject to erosion.
4.
Log Decks, Landings, and Portable
Sawmill Locations
Locate sites for log decks and portable
sawmills prior to road construction. Decks
and portable sawmill sites should be located at
least 50 feet outside the SMZ and should be on
well-drained soils with a slope of 2 to
5 percent to enhance drainage. Provide for
adequate drainage on approach roads and skid
trails, such as a diversion ditch around the
uphill side of a deck to intercept water flow
and direct it away from the deck. Locate
residue piles outside wet weather drainages.
When servicing equipment, properly drain
waste products into containers and dispose of
them in accordance with proper solid waste
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disposal procedures. Remove garbage and
trash and dispose of them properly. Decks,
landings, and portable sawmill locations should
be stabilized to prevent erosion and sediment
loss within the first 15 days of the next
seeding season following completion of
harvesting operations.
5. Streamside Management Zone
Streamside management zones should have a
minimum width of 50 feet on both sides of
perennial streams and around open water
bodies. SMZs may be desirable on
intermittent streams for large drainage areas
where wildlife or water quality is a major
landowner concern. The recommended SMZ
widths for various water bodies are presented
in Table 32.
Partial harvesting of the SMZ is acceptable,
but a minimum of 50 percent crown cover or
50 square feet of basal area per acre must be
evenly retained. Limit the use of logging
equipment by using dispersed skidding, cable
and winch, and similar methods. The forest '
floor should remain essentially undisturbed,
and mineral soil should not be exposed.
Locate sawmill sites and decks outside the
SMZ. Remove all harvested tree limbs and
tops from the stream.
Access roads,should cross perennial or
intermittent streams at or near a right angle;
access roads should be kept to a minimum
within the SMZ. Stabilize all roads, cuts, and
fills in the SMZ within the first 15 days of the
next seeding season. Fertilizer should not be
used in SMZs. .Install energy absorbers at
cross-drained culvert outlets or other discharge
points. Ditches, cross-drain culverts, water
bars, rolling dips, and broad-based dips should
be used on all roads prior to their entrance into
an SMZ.
6. Drainage Structures
Broad-based dips can be used on truck haul
roads and heavily used skid trails that have a
gradient of 12 percent or less to provide cross
drainage. They should not be used for cross-
draining spring seeps, intermittent streams, or
perennial streams. They should be installed
during road construction following the basic .
clearing and grading phase. The spacing of
broad-based dips should be determined by the
following formula:
Spacing (feet)
400
slope
+ 100
Install an energy absorber, such as rip-rap, at
the outfall of the dip to dissipate water velocity
and minimize erosion potential. Surfacing the
dip with 3-inch crushed stone may be desirable ,
to prevent rutting.
Table 32. Recommended SMZ Widths for Various Waters
Slope of Adjacent Lands
Water Type
0-10
11-20
21-45
45+
Cold-Water Fisheries (trout)
Warm-Water Fisheries
Municipal Water Supplies
66
50
100
75
50
150
. 100
50
150
125
50
200
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
Rolling dips can be used on truck haul roads
and heavily used skid trails that have a
gradient of 15 percent or less to provide cross
drainage. They should not be used for cross-
draining spring seeps, intermittent streams, or
perennial streams. Install rolling dips on roads
during construction following the basic
clearing and grading phase or on skid trails
after logging is completed. Recommended
spacing is provided in the manual.
Water bars should be used on roads and skid .
trails that will not have vehicular traffic. If
there is the potential for vehicular traffic, use
rolling dips. Water bars should be constructed
at an angle of 30 to 45 degrees downslope
with the uphill end of the bar extending
beyond the side ditch. The outflow end of the
bar should disperse runoff water onto
undisturbed forest floor. Recommended
spacing is provided in the manual.
Pipe culverts or open-top box culverts can be
used for any size operation where cross
drainage of storm water is needed on truck
haul roads or major skid trails. Pipe culverts
should be installed on a 2 to 4 percent grade
skewed 15 to 30 degrees downgrade, and
should be long enough so both ends extend at
least 1 foot beyond the side slope of fill
material. Box culverts should be installed
flush or just below the road surface and
skewed 15 to 30 degrees downgrade. Spacing
of culverts can be determined using the
formula for broad-based dip spacing. The
culvert outfall should be protected to* dissipate
water velocity and minimize erosion potential.
The structure should be maintained by
removing sediment, gravel, or logging debris.
7. Stream Crossings
When streams must be crossed by logging
equipment, use bridges, culverts, or rock
fords. Bridges should be constructed with
minimum disturbance to the stream bank,
channel, or adjacent SMZ. Pipe culverts
should be installed on a 2 to 4 percent grade
and should be long enough so both ends extend
at least 1 foot beyond the edge of the fill
material. Recommended culverts sizes are
based on the acres drained, soil density, and
slope. Erosion protection measures should be
installed at the culvert outlet to minimize
downslope erosion. Recommended culvert
sizes are provided in the manual. Rock fords
or log fords may be used if no practical
alternative exists, but the approaches and
stream bottoms must be hard enough so turbid
water does not result.
8. Site Preparation
A Forest Management Plan should be prepared
prior to any site preparation. This plan will
consider the condition of the tract, landowner
desires, adjacent property, environmental
concerns, and water quality. Site preparation
activities should not be conducted in SMZs.
Prescribed burning should be conducted when
soil moisture or weather conditions are
sufficient to prevent removal of all surface
duff and root mat. Construct firelines around
the perimeter of the burn area and along the
perimeter of the SMZ, and install water bars
and turnouts. Drainage from firelines should
be diverted away from streams.
Mechanical site preparation should be
conducted in a manner that minimizes erosion
and water quality impacts. Schedule
operations during favorable soil moisture and
weather conditions. Drum-chop up and down
the slope so the depressions created by the
cleats and chopper blades are on the contour,
reducing the potential for channeled flow.
Avoid exposing excess mineral soil during
chopping. Disking should be performed on
the contour and on slopes of less than 10
percent. When bulldozing, if a potential for
erosion exists, leave the topsoil and root mat
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in place to preserve site quality and minimize
water quality impact. Bulldozing should be
limited to slopes of 20 percent or less, and a
windrow should be constructed approximately
every 200 feet. Windrows should be
constructed along the contour, with a 20-foot
opening for each 300 feet of windrow.
Bedding should be performed along the
contour if slope is discernible. Machine
planting, subsoiling, and sod scalping should
be performed on the contour, and steep slopes
should be hand planted.
Application of pesticides and disposal of
containers should follow manufacturer's label
instructions, and measures should be
implemented to prevent pesticides from
reaching surface waters by directapplication
or runoff. Application of fertilizers and
disposal of containers must adhere to
manufacturer's label instructions. Application
rates of fertilizers should be based on soil
analysis and developmental needs of the
desired tree species. Broadcast application of
fertilizers within 50 feet of open water is not
recommended.
9. Revegetation of Bare Soil Areas
All disturbed areas with a grade of 5 percent
or greater must be seeded and mulched within
the first 15 days of the next seeding season.
Upon completion of operations, bare soil areas .
with grades greater than 5 percent and/or areas
of bare soil with erosion potential (landings,
sawmill locations, skid trails, or haul roads)
should be identified for revegetation as the
season permits. Lime and fertilizer application
rates should be determined by soil type and
acidity. Suggested seeding mixtures, rates,
and dates are provided. Mulch should be
applied immediately after seeding highly
credible slopes or during adverse soil or
weather conditions. Seeded areas should be
protected from grazing and unrestricted vehicle
use. ' . -
10. Wildfire Control and Reclamation
When possible, do not plow firelines directly
intoSMZs. If this is unavoidable, revegetate
as soon as possible. Stabilize and revegetate
firelines on grades greater than 5 percent.
Bare soil should be revegetated and eroding,
gullies treated. Where timber has been killed,
reforestation needs should be assessed.
Forested Wetlands
There may be restrictions on some silvicultural
activities dependent upon legal interpretations
of wetlands and the conversion from wetland
species to other species. Discharge of fill
materials into waters of the United States from
ditching or from other activities whose purpose
is to convert forested wetlands to some other
use, or where the flow or circulation of the
waters may be impaired or the reach reduced,
is not permitted under the silvicultural
exemptions under the Clean Water Act.
11. Natural Regeneration
Successful regeneration depends on: (1) recog-
nizing the site type and its characteristics;
(2) evaluating the stocking and species
composition in relation to stand age and site
capability; (3) planning regeneration options;
and (4) using sound harvesting methods.
Natural hardwood regeneration uses the
normal cycle of wetlands species succession.
The harvesting system, which also serves as
the regeneration system, must be chosen on the
basis of stand and site conditions and
landowner objectives. Schedule harvest during
the dormant season to take advantage of seed
crops and to favor coppice regeneration.
Harvest the stand as completely as possible to
allow maximum sunlight, and leave stumps at
a height of less than 10 inches. Minimize soil
degradation from logging and site preparation,
especially during saturated soil conditions.
Following a clearcut (where ground conditions
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
permit), control residuals larger than 1.5
inches in diameter by felling, girdling, stump
treatment, or injection of chemical herbicides.
12. Preharvest Planning
Preharvest planning provides an organized
method for an efficient harvest operation while
maintaining subsurface and surface water
quality. The wetlands preharvest plan should
include:
upland preharvest planning considerations;
establishment of 50-foot-wide SMZs on each
side of the main channel or areas of open
water;
location of log decks and main sources of
xoad-building materials;
" identification of main road system on the
uplands and development of a tentative road
system within the wetlands;
identification of special equipment required
for skidding and hauling or other harvesting
methods; and
identification of potential problems or events
that may interrupt logging operations.
Schedule harvesting operations during extreme
dry periods or during times that enhance
regeneration. Use machinery with adequate
flotation devices to minimize the impact on the
soil surface or degradation of site quality.
13. Truck Haul Roads
Construct road fill only when absolutely
necessary. Road fills should be no more than
2 feet above the natural ground level and
should be constructed parallel to the flow of
the main channel at least 200 feet from the
SMZ. Provide cross drains at a minimum
every 100 feet. Use gravel or crushed rock as
fill to provide for movement of ground water
and to serve as a base for the road. A layer of
poles, slabs, or logs laid side-by-side,
extending 3-4 feet on each side beyond the
width of the roadbed, can provide a base for
borrow or fill material. Thick layers of large
wood chips can be used as a roadbed to
distribute load weight and limit the road's
adverse impact. Use planking or wooden mats
to improve the soil's ability to support traffic
of heavy loads. Cross streams, sloughs, or
existing drainage channels with properly sized
culverts or bridges-.
The use of oversized or balloon tires is
encouraged to reduce compaction and rutting.
Move equipment to the uplands during periods
of potential flooding and wet periods. Upon
completion of harvesting operations, remove
temporary drainage structures and obstructions
from channels, stabilize roads to prevent
. erosion and sediment loss, and restrict access.
14. Skid Trails
Plan major skid trails to minimize damage to
the residual stand, reduce erosion and
sedimentation, maintain surface and subsurface
water flow, and provide the most economical
method for skidding products. Locate skid
trails outside SMZs and after the location of
log decks has been decided. Use sandy
sloughs as skid trails when harvesting in peat
and muck swamps. Avoid stream crossings
unless absolutely necessary, but use a bridge
or culvert of acceptable design when a stream
crossing is unavoidable. Approaches to water
crossings should be at or near a right angle to
the stream flow and of sufficient length to
allow logs to line up behind the skidder. The
use of wide-tracked bulldozers and flotation
tires on skidders is recommended.
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15. Log Decks
Locate log decks in advance of road
construction, and on elevated lands of the
uplands or higher elevations within large
wetland units. Provide for adequate drainage
on approach roads and skid trails. Use gravel,
borrow materials, slab materials, mats, fabrics,
or other material to provide adequate drainage
and bearing capacity. Locate residue piles
outside the wetlands or wet weather drainages.
Service equipment in such a way that
petroleum products and toxics are contained
and properly disposed of. Garbage, trash, and
inoperable equipment should be removed at the
end of harvesting operations. Stabilize
landings within the first 15 days of the next
seeding season after completion of the harvest.
Locate mill seats and log decks on uplands
more than 50 feet from SMZs.
16. Streamside Management Zone
The practices recommended for SMZs in
wetlands are essentially the same as SMZs in
upland areas. The use of a grapple skidder is
recommended to create less disturbance of the
forest floor. Minimize the number of access
roads, through the SMZ, and stabilize all
roads, cuts, and fills in the SMZ.
17. Cross Drainages
Cross drainages can be used for any size
operation where drainage is necessary to
reduce ponding. The pipe diameter should be
a minimum of 15 inches. Recommended
pipe/culvert sizes are provided in the manual
and are based on acres drained and soil type.
Multiple pipes may be used to meet the
minimum required diameter. The pipe slope
should be just below the streambed gradient
with pipe alignment parallel to the stream
course. The pipe length should be long
enough so both ends extend a minimum of
1 foot beyond the side slope of the roadbed,
and erosion protection should be provided at
pipe outfalls.
State Contact:
J. Michael Foreman
or
Sam Austin
Dept. of Forestry
(804)977-6555
Other Available State Information
Brochures Forest Landowner and Water
Quality; Debris in Stream Law;
Landowners, Loggers,
Foresters Use BMPs
Videos Managing Mountain Forests for
Clean Water; Impact of BMP
Regulations on Maryland
Logging; BMPs for Logging
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WASHINGTON
Reference: Washington State Forest Practices
Board and Department of Ecology. 1992.
Washington Forest Practices Rules and
Regulations.
Washington has designated five water
categories determined by water usage arid
water quality. Washington has also designated
four classes of forest practices and three
wetland types. The Department of Natural
Resources must approve notification before
implementing Class II forest practices.
Implementing Class HI or IV forest practices
requires an approved application. In addition
to the rules and regulations summarized below,
the Washington State Forest Practices Board
has published a Forest Practices Manual that
includes methods for determining adequate
shade on streams and for measuring stream
channel width, gradient, and flow; a chart for
determining permanent culvert sizes;
guidelines for clearing slash and debris from
Type 4 and 5 Waters, landing location and
construction, determining acceptable stocking
levels, calculating average widths of riparian
management zones (RMZs), wetland
delineation, and wetland replacement by
substitution or enhancement; a list of non-
native wetland plant species; a list of special
concerns related to aerial application of
pesticides; and a methodology for conducting
watershed analysis.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Watershed Analysis
2. Wetlands
3. Road Construction and Maintenance
4. Timber Harvesting
5. Reforestation
6. Forest Chemicals
1. Watershed Analysis
Watershed analysis is designed to assess
selected biological and physical parameters of
the environment within a watershed
administration unit (WAU) and to provide
information needed to regulate cumulative
effects of forest practices on fish, water, and
capital improvements of the state and its
political subdivisions. Level 1 Assessments
are low-intensity evaluations of a WAU to
identify areas of resource sensitivity and to
determine whether a more intensive Level 2
Assessment is needed. Prescriptions are
developed for identified areas of resource
sensitivity. Site-specific conditioning of
silvicultural activities by prescriptions preempt
the regulations that would otherwise apply.
2. Wetlands
Wetlands are designated as Type A or B or
forested. Type A Wetlands are nonforested
wetlands that are at least 0.5 acre (0.25 acre if
bog or fen) with ponded or open water that is
present for 7 consecutive days April 1 to
October 1. Type B Wetlands are all other '
nonforested wetlands that are at least 0.25
acre. Forested wetlands are those that have a
30 percent or greater crown cover or would
have 30 percent crown cover if the trees were
mature. The Board Manual has approved
guidelines for wetland delineation and
replacement by substitution or enhancement
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
and a list of non-native wetland plant species
thnt must not be introduced. Western and
Eastern Washington have wetland management
zones (WMZs) for Type A and B wetlands and
their bogs and fens. WMZs are required on
bogs and fens 0.25 acre and larger and on
other wetlands 0.5 acre and larger. WMZs
have variable widths based on the size of the
wetland and wetland type and range from a
maximum width of 200 feet to a minimum
width of 25 feet. The protection of wetlands
is addressed in the following sections of this
summary.
3. Road Construction and Maintenance
Ht the road to the topography, and avoid
locating roads along or within narrow canyons,
RMZs. wetlands, and WMZs, or on
excessively steep or unstable slopes, or known
slide-prone areas. Do not locate roads in
wetlands where there will be substantial loss of
wefland functions or acreage unless
alternatives are more damaging to public
resources. Minimize the number of stream
crossings, and cross streams at right angles.
Use existing roads whenever practical, and
avoid isolating patches of timber that may
require unnecessary road construction for
removal later.
Use the minimum design standard to produce a
road capable of accommodating the anticipated
traffic load. The subgrade width should not
average more than 32 feet for double-lane
roads and 20 feet for single-lane roads.
Balance excavation and embankments. Design
or construct cut-and-fill slopes not to exceed
the normal angle of repose for the materials
involved. All roads must have adequate
drainage through use of cross drains, ditches,
drivable dips, relief culverts, water bars,
diversion ditches, or other such structures.
Cross drams are required in wetlands to
provide continued hydrologic connectivity.
Cross drains, relief culverts and diversion
ditches must not discharge onto credible soils
or over fill slopes. Relief culverts must be at
least 15 inches in diameter and must be
installed sloping toward the outside edge of the
road at a minimum gradient of 3 percent.
Where roadside ditches slope toward a Type 1,
2, or 3 Water or a Type A or B Wetland for
more than 300 feet and otherwise would
discharge into the stream, divert the ditch
water onto the forest floor at the first practical
point. Filling or draining more than 0.5 acre
of wetland requires replacement by substitution
or enhancement of the lost wetland functions
and area. .
Construct roads when moisture and soil
conditions are not likely to result in excessive
erosion or soil movement. Do not bury loose
stumps, logs, or chunks containing more than
5 cubic feet in the load-bearing portion of the
road, any significant amount of organic debris
within the top 2 feet of the load-bearing
portion of the road, or any excessive
accumulation of debris or slash in any part of
the load-bearing portion of the road fill.
Stabilize exposed soil areas by seeding with
grass, clover, or other ground cover. Avoid
the introduction of non-native plant species to
wetlands and WMZs. Clear the stream
channel of all debris and slash generated.
Install all required drainage devices
concurrently with the construction of the
roadway. End haul or overhaul construction is
required where significant amounts of sidecast
material would rest below the 50-year flood
level of a Type 1, 2, 3, or 4 Water, or within
Type A or B Wetlands or WMZs. No spoils
area greater than 0.5 acre may be placed in
typed wetlands or their management zones.
Locate landings to prevent damage to public
resources, and where excessive excavation and
filling will not be necessary. Do not locate
landings within typed wetlands or their
WMZs. Slope landings to minimize the
accumulation of water. Out-slope or cross
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drain truck roads, skid trails, and fire trails
that are uphill of landings, and divert water
onto the forest floor away from the toe of any
landing fill. Landings requiring sidecast or fill
must be no larger than reasonably necessary.
Where average general, slopes exceed
65 percent, fill material used in constructing
landings must be free from loose stumps and
excessive slash and must be mechanically
compacted.
Bridges are required for new crossings of any
Type 1 or 2 Waters regularly used for
recreational boating. Permanent bridges must
not constrict clearly defined channels. All
permanent bridges and culverts must be
designed to pass the 50-year flood level, or the
road must be constructed to provide erosion
protection from the 50-year flood waters
exceeding the capacity of the drainage
structure. One end of each new permanent log
or wood bridge must be tied or firmly
anchored if the bridge is within 10 vertical feet
of the 50-year flood level. Culvert alignment
and slope must parallel the natural flow of the
stream, and the culvert must be terminated on
materials that will not readily erode. Clear
streambeds for a distance of 50 feet upstream
from the culvert inlet of all slash and debris.
In streams used by anadromous fish, culverts
must either .be open bottomed or have the
bottom covered with gravel and installed at
least 6 inches below the natural stream bed at
the inlet and outlet, and closed bottom culverts
must not slope more than 0.5 percent. The
rules provide minimum culvert sizing for
stream and wetland crossings that are based on
the presence of anadromous fish, game fish, or
no fish. Temporary bridges and culverts
adequate to carry the highest anticipated flow
in lieu of carrying the 50-year flood may be
used if installed after June 1 and removed by
September 30 of the same year. Temporary
bridges and culverts must be promptly
removed upon completion of use, and
approaches to crossings must be water barred
and stabilized. Temporary wetland crossings
must be approved, abandoned, and restored
according to prior written plan.
A plan for road maintenance and abandonment
of drainages or road systems should be
determined by the Department of Natural
Resources. For active roads, culverts and
ditches must be kept functional, road surfaces
must be maintained to minimize erosion, and
road surfaces must be crowned, out-sloped, or
water barred and berms removed from the
outside edge. For inactive roads,
nonfunctional ditches and culverts must be
cleared and/or repaired and the road surface
crowned, out-sloped, or water barred. ;
Abandoned roads should be out-sloped, water
barred, or otherwise left in a condition suitable
to control erosion and maintain water
movement within wetlands. Bridges, culverts,
and fills on all waters should be removed, and
access to the road should be blocked.
Locate rock quarries and gravel pits above the
50-year flood level. Locate spoil disposal
areas above the 50-year flood level, on areas
of low potential timber productivity, where the
final slope will be no steeper than 1V4:1,
where the risk of erosion and mass soil
movement is minimal, and outside typed
wetlands and their management zones. During
the construction and use of rock quarries,
borrow pits, or gravel pits, runoff must be
diverted either onto the forest floor or into
settling basins. These areas must be
rehabilitated within 2 years of their
abandonment. Rehabilitation includes removal
of all deleterious material, grading to less than
the angle of repose, and reforestation or
revegetation.
4. Timber Harvesting
Riparian management zones must be measured
horizontally from the ordinary high water
mark of Type 1, 2, or 3 waters and must
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extend to the line where vegetation changes ,
from wetland to upland plant community or to
the line required to leave sufficient shade.
Leave trees in the RMZs for wildlife and
fisheries habitat management. Fifty percent or
more of the trees must be live and undamaged
on completion of harvest. The specifications
for width and leave tree requirements are
different in western RMZs and eastern RMZs
and are provided in the rules and regulations:
RMZ widths may be extended to the maximum
width to provide sufficient shade to protect
stream temperature and farther, if needed, to
include wetlands. Where overlapped by .
WMZs, the leave tree provisions that best
protect public resources are to be used.
When harvesting in RMZs along Type 1,2,
and 3 Waters, avoid disturbing understory
vegetation, root systems, and any logs
embedded in the bank. Leave high stumps
where necessary to prevent felled or bucked
timber from entering the water. Minimize the
number of skidding routes through the RMZ.
The temperature prediction method described
in the Forest Practices Manual should be used
to determine the minimum shade cover
necessary to prevent excessive water
temperatures, which may have a detrimental
impact on aquatic resources, for flowing Type
1, 2, and 3 Waters. The method uses site-
specific characteristics and includes
consideration of shade retention, minimum
leave tree requirements, regional water
temperature characteristics, elevation, and
temperature criteria defined for stream classes
in Department of Ecology water quality
standards. A temperature prediction model is
available from the Department of Natural
Resources.
When harvesting wetland management zones,
leave 75 trees per acre greater than 6 inches
dbh in western Washington and greater than 4
inches dbh in eastern Washington. Leave trees
should be representative of the species found
within the WMZ. Openings created by
harvesting within the WMZ may not exceed
100 feet as measured parallel to the wetland
edge and may be no closer than 200 feet. Do
not use tractors, wheeled sWdders, or other
ground-based harvesting systems within the
minimum WMZ width. If individual trees or
forested wetlands of less than 0.5 acre occur
within the boundaries of nonforested wetlands,
do not harvest. Do not fell timber into or yard
timber across Type A or B Wetlands without
written approval of the Department.
Harvesting methods within forested wetlands
are limited to low-impact harvest or cable
systems, and at least one end of the log should
be suspended during yarding. Clump leave
tree areas adjacent to streams, RMZs, or
WMZs. Green recruitment trees should be
representative of the size and species found
within the wetlands. No point within the
harvest unit may be more than 1,000 feet from
a wildlife reserve tree and green recruitment
tree retention area.
Even-aged harvests of more than 240
contiguous acres or more than 40 contiguous
acres on saltwater islands is prohibited. Do
not fell trees into Type 1, 2, and 3 waters or
Type A and B Wetlands. Use directional
felling and skid trees away from water. Do
not cable yard timber in or across Type 1, 2,
or 3 Waters, except where logs will not
materially damage the area. Yard in an uphill
direction. Do not remove or disturb any logs
firmly embedded in the bottom of a stream.
Do not use tractors or wheeled skidders in
Type 1, 2 or 3 Waters, and minimize skidding
across flowing Type 4 Waters. Minimize skid
trail width, and out-slope where practical.
Upon completion of harvest operations,
landings must be cleaned up and stabilized.
Clear obstructions from ditches and culverts.
Regrade to prevent accumulation of water, and
ensure that all cut slopes are stable.
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Revegetate, mulch, and,water bar as
necessary. All cables, machine parts, and
other inorganic debris must be removed.
Any conventional method of slash disposal is
allowable, except in wetlands and WMZs;
burning and scarification are prohibited, and
machine pulling is discouraged. Do not pile
or windrow slash below the 50-year flood level
of any Type 1, 2, 3, or 4 Water or in locations
from which it could be expected to enter any
watercourse or waterbody. When burning,
fire trails should be constructed with dips,
water bars, cross drains, and ditches as
necessary to control erosion. Do not locate
fire trails within Type A or B Wetlands or
WMZs without prior written approval of the
Department.
5. Reforestation
Reforestation requirements and stocking levels
vary by region and are specified in the rules
and regulations. Reforestation plans must be
submitted with the application or notification.
'Do not use heavy equipment for site
preparation or rehabilitation if soil moisture
conditions or soil .type would cause undue
compaction or damage to soil productivity or
would generate erosion. Do not operate heavy
equipment in RMZs, Type A or B Wetlands,
WMZs, within 10 feet of the ordinary high
water mark of Type 4 and 5 Waters on slopes
30 percent or less, or within 50 feet of any
waters on slopes greater than 30 percent.
6. Forest Chemicals
Transportation, handling, storage, loading,
application, and disposal of pesticides must
conform to label requirements and state and
federal regulations. Prevent pesticide leakage,
contamination, and pollution. Store and mix
chemicals and clean tanks and equipment
where any accidental spill would not enter
surface waters or wetlands. If any chemical is
spilled, immediately take appropriate
procedures to neutralize it. Provide an air gap
or reservoir between the water source and the
mixing tank. Chemical treatments in RMZs
and WMZs must be applied by hand or by an
approved specific alternative. For aerial
pesticide applications, leave a 50-foot buffer
strip around all waters and do not allow
pesticides to directly enter waters, typed
wetlands, or riparian or wetland management
zones. Aerial application of fertilizers requires
a 25-foot buffer on all Type 1, 2, and 3
Waters. During ground pesticide treatments
with powered equipment, leave a 25-foot
buffer around all waters and typed wetlands.
Chemical containers must be removed from the
forest and either disposed of according to label
instructions or cleaned for reuse according to
applicable regulations of the state agriculture
department or state and local health
departments.
State Contact:
Dan Bigger
(206)902-1410
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v>EPA
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Board Manual and Guidelines;
Books Forest Practices Act
Brochures Fact Sheets and Heads-Up
describe changes to the Forest
Practice Rules and provide a
general summary of new rules;
Monitoring Guidelines to
Evaluate Effects of Forestry
Activities on Streams in the
Pacific Northwest and Alaska
Videos Wall-based Channels describes
fish habitat off main channels
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WEST VIRGINIA
References: West Virginia Forestry Division.
Clean Streams Handbook for Loggers
Keeping Mud Out of the Streams; the Logging
Sediment Control Act (Article IB of Chapter
19 of West Virginia Code 1931).
The Logging Sediment Control Act requires
that anyone conducting timbering operations,
purchasing timber, or buying logs for resale
must obtain a license. In addition, timber
operators must notify the Division of Forestry
within 3 days of the commencement of
harvesting operations. The notification must
include- the following:
(1) the specific topographic location where
the operation will be conducted;
(2) the approximate dates that the operation
will begin and end;
(3) the approximate acreage of the harvest;
(4) the name and address of the timber-
owner(s) and, if different, the name and
address of the landowner(s);
(5) a sketch map of the proposed location,
including haul roads, landings, and
stream crossings;
(6) a description of the sediment control
practices to be implemented;
(7) an acknowledgment that the operator
will conduct operations in compliance
with the Act;
(8) the name and timbering license number
-, of the person or firm supervising the
logging site; and
(9) the name and certification number of
the person(s) supervising the operation.
The Act also stipulates that any individual
supervising any timber operation must be
certified by July 2, 1993. The certification
program provides for education and training in
safety, first aid procedures, and the use of
BMPs.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Planning the Operation
2. Filter Strips
3. Constructing Logging Roads
and Landings
4. Maintaining Logging Roads
and Landings
5. Retiring Logging Roads and Landings
1. Planning the Operation
Plan the road system to fit the topography.
Locate landings first, and plan skid roads to
approach at low grades. Space skid roads as
far apart as practical. Consider the aspect of
the hillside when planning road location;
south- and west-facing slopes are usually drier
and provide a better location for main haul
roads. Avoid locating roads on cliffs, flat
ridgetops, easily eroded soils, seeps, swampy
places, and other obstacles. Do not locate
roads in filter strips.
Examine the distribution and volume of timber
to be removed and estimate the number of
loads that will be hauled over the road to
determine the design and standards to which
the various sections and spurs need to be
constructed. Design roads to have low grades.
Haul roads should be between 3 and 10
percent; grades up to 15 percent are allowable
for 200-foot intervals if special treatment is
provided to control erosion. Skid roads may
be up to 15 percent, but grades up to 20 ,
percent are allowable for short segments.
Avoid roads with long, straight grades. Install
broad-based dips, grade breaks, or other
drainage structures on main haul roads.
Design road curves to have a minimum 35-foot
radius and nearly level grade.
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Han the harvest on paper. Draw proposed
haul and skid.roads and landings on a
topographic map. Mark proposed drainage or
water control structures, such as bridges,
culverts, dips, outsloped or insloped roads,
grade breaks, and critical areas to be graveled.
Prior to construction, walk and flag all
proposed road and drainage structure locations
to ensure that the roads have been properly
placed.
2. Filter Strips
Retain a filter strip with a minimum width of
25 feet between roads and watercourses;
however, on watersheds draining more than
100 acres, a width of 25 to at least 200 feet is
preferable. The width of the strip should
increase as the slope adjacent to the
watercourse increases. Harvesting in the strip
is allowed, but a shade strip should be retained
immediately adjacent to the watercourse to
maintain uniform water temperature levels.
Do not disturb the soil in filter strips except
when needed for stream crossings. Cross
streams perpendicular to stream flow using
small bridges or culverts. Consider alternative
road locations before deciding that a bridge is
necessary to transport timber out of a certain
tract Drain runoff from approach roads and
divert it away from the streams. Do not skid
logs through flowing streams, and never
operate the skidder in a stream.
3. Constructing Logging Roads and
Landings ,
Construct roads in the planned locations. Use
the narrowest width to safely handle
anticipated traffic volume. Maintain
temporary water bars and turnouts during
construction. If possible, allow newly
constructed roads to settle several months
before using. Clear the rights-of-ways and
daylight the roads to allow for maximum
sunlight penetration and drying ability.
Logging roads entering onto paved roads
should be covered with heavy gravel for about
200 feet to reduce the amount of mud carried
onto the highway.
Install drainage structures on roads and
landings. Use natural cross drainage. Out-
slope the entire width of the road toward the
fill bank to provide good surface drainage.
The out-slope grade should be V* - % inch per
foot. If road conditions preclude out-sloping,
in-slope the road and install ditch relief
culverts or drainage dips. Culverts should be
spaced 200 to 300 feet apart, should be
installed on an 8 to 10 percent grade, and
should cross the road at about a 30-degree
angle. Use broad-based dips on active haul
roads and water bars on retired roads. A
diagram is provided in the manual with
specifications for proper broad-based dip
construction. Discharge drainage dip outflow
onto vegetated areas, and install energy
dissipators at dip outlets if necessary to reduce
erosion.
Stream crossings should be perpendicular to
the channel and should not impede stream
flow. Use bridges to cross streams that are
too big for culverts. A bridge should not be
constructed if a culvert or ford can be used to
cross the stream. Install culverts on a 2 to 4
percent grade to facilitate drainage. Size
culverts to accommodate anticipated high
stream flows. Approaches to stream crossings
should be surfaced with gravel to reduce
siltation of the stream.
Construct landings on dry ground at least
25 feet from watercourses; 100 feet or greater
is preferable. If a landing must be located
closer to a watercourse than 25 feet, several
sediment control measures must be applied.
Slightly slope the landing surface to facilitate
drainage. Prevent runoff from entering the
landing area by providing adequate drainage of
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
approach roads and constructing a diversion
ditch along the uphill side of the landing.
4. Maintaining Logging Roads and
Landings
During the logging operation, roads, ditches,
dips, and culverts should be maintained to
perform properly. Regrade the road surface
periodically to remove ruts, and inspect and
clean all water control and drainage structures.
Restrict traffic during unfavorable weather.
Do not allow skidding on haul roads. Do not
push logging debris from roads or landings
into or toward watercourses. Remove and
properly dispose of all trash, used oil, etc.
5. Retiring Logging Roads and Landings
Retire logging roads as soon as they are not
needed for removing timber. Do not wait
until the entire operation has been completed.
Smooth and grade landings and main haul
roads. Remove temporary drainage structures
and clean permanent drainage structures.
Revegetate all exposed soil areas using seed,
lime, fertilizer, and mulch. Restrict vehicular
access with a gate or deep trench. Plan for
future maintenance of permanent drainage
control structures. Install water bars on skid
trails at the recommended intervals, and leave
loped slash and other logging debris on the
skid trail to help minimize erosion.
Other Available State Information
Manuals/ Clean Streams Handbook for
Books Landowners; Guidelines for
Controlling Soil Erosion and
\Water Pollution on Logging
Operations - a technical pocket
guide; Silvicultural Water
Quality Management Plan
Brochures Keeping Mud Out of the
Streams; Forest Owners and
Logging Roads
Videos Building Roads; Selling Timber;
Forest and Water
State Contact:
William H. Gillespie
Forestry Division
(304)558-3446 ,
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
WISCONSIN
Reference: Wisconsin Department of Natural
Resources, Bureau of Forestry, and Wisconsin
Paper Council. 1990. Forest Practice
Guidelines for Wisconsin.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Forest Management Plans
2. Forest Accessways
3. Timber Harvesting
4. Reforestation
5. Integrated Pest Management
1. Forest Management Plans
t
Management plans should include a "Statement
of Goals" the landowner or manager wants to
achieve, an "Inventory" of the timber and
other property values, and a "Plan of Action"
that outlines how, where, and when the
landowner's goals will be met. Soil surveys,
topographic maps, aerial photos, and other"
reference materials should be used as planning
tools. Establish harvest boundaries using
topographic features such as permanent
streams, ridges, roads, and forest type in
conjunction with land management goals,
available equipment, and silvicultural needs.
Schedule activities to minimize potential
negative impacts on soils and waters..
2. Forest Accessways
Plan and implement logging road construction
and other forest alterations to conserve soil
and protect water quality. Minimize surface
disturbance during road, skid trail, and landing
construction. Grade roads to 8 percent or less
for normal soils and to less than 5 percent for
credible soils. Avoid constructing steep cuts
and fills. Do not use surface debris as fill
material, and prevent its entry into springs,
streams, and lakes. Limit construction during
adverse weather.
Divert water off the road surface using
ditches, cross drains, drainage dips, and
proper water diversion techniques. A, permit
may be required if drainage structures are
within 500 feet of a stream or lake. Minimize
stream crossings, and contact regulatory
agencies regarding specific rules and permit
requirements. Use proper culverts or bridges
and adequate amounts of fill and gravel to
ensure good drainage. Adequately size
culverts and bridges to accommodate stream
flows. Avoid fording unless streambeds and
banks are sufficiently stable. Minimize
disturbance when constructing bridges or
installing culverts, and stabilize stream banks
when construction is complete. Retain
protective strips or buffers adjacent to streams
or lakes. Upon completion of operations,
remove all stream crossing structures or
materials.
Maintain forest accessways by removing debris
from culverts and ditches and revegetating skid
trails, landings, and unused roads. Grade
and/or gravel permanent roads to maintain
drainage, and restrict access during wet
seasons.
3. Timber Harvesting
Landings should be located and sized to
minimize adverse impacts of skidding on the
natural water drainage patterns. Locate
landings on firm, well-drained ground outside
streamside management zones of perennial
streams and above the ordinary high water
mark of intermittent streams. Landings should
use natural topography for drainage. Divert
runoff from approach roads to prevent its entry
onto the landing. Prevent chemical spills on
landings and other intensive work areas. Upon
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
completion of operations, drain any impounded
water on or around the landing and seed
landings with a herbaceous cover crop to
stabilize credible soils.
Skidding operations should match equipment
with terrain, soils, "and weather conditions to
minimize soil compaction and other
disturbances. Locate skid trails to minimize
soil displacement, to use the topography, and
to avoid steep gradients and disruption of
natural drainages. Skid trails on slopes should
have occasional breaks. Minimize the number
of skid routes through SMZs, and use culverts,
logs, or portable bridges as temporary stream
crossings. Rock fords or log fords may be
used if a practical alternative to crossing
streams does not exist and if the stream
approach and stream bottom are hard enough
that sedimentation or muddy water does not
result. Upon completion of operations,
promptly remove all stream crossings,
revegetate skid trails, and install water bars.
Carefully fell trees to reduce damage to
residual stands and minimize erosion.
Directionally fell trees away from water bodies
and parallel to the skid trail, with butts toward
ihe landing. Avoid felling trees into streams
or lakes, and promptly remove any trees
inadvertently felled into a water body. Retain
an uncut or partially cut strip of timber along
major waterways. Avoid logging adjacent to
water bodies during periods when erosion and
sedimentation are likely to occur.
Logging debris accumulating in streams or
lakes must be removed promptly and deposited
above the high water mark. Scatter logging
residue on skid trails and exposed soil areas
with soil erosion potential. Properly dispose
of human-generated wastes and litter.
4. Reforestation
Minimize soil disturbance by mechanical
preparation methods. Conduct prescribed
burns under proper conditions, and avoid
exposing mineral soils. Comply with
applicable federal, state, and local regulations
governing chemical storage, transportation,
handling, and application. Select a planting
procedure that is least disturbing to the soil,
and avoid planting when the soil has a high
moisture content.
5. Integrated Pest Management
Harvest mature, diseased, or infected trees or
stands. Use silvicultural systems prescribed
specifically to minimize pest population
development. Manage for tree species that are
adapted to the specific soil and site. Favor
diversity, and avoid establishing host tree
species in areas where they may be susceptible
to a particular insect or disease. Use
pesticides judiciously to control disease and
insect populations.
State Contact:
Robert J. Mather
Dept. of Natural Resources
(608)266-1727
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WYOMING
Reference: Wyoming Department of
Environmental Quality. 1992. Wyoming
Nonpoint Source Management Plan:
Silviculture Best Management Practices - Final
Draft.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
1. Planning
2. Harvesting and Revegetation
3. Roads
I 4. Chemicals
5. Fire Management
1. Planning
Evaluate proposed timber harvest units to
estimate the response on the affected
watersheds to determine whether the proposed
units are suitable for harvesting. This involves
field examination, evaluation of existing data,
analysis of potential watershed response, and
professional judgment. Where adverse water
quality or soil productivity impacts may result,
the harvest unit design should be modified,
individual units deleted, and/or natural
recovery rate accelerated by using watershed
improvement measures. This practice cannot
be implemented by a layperson; technical
assistance must be provided by a professional
forester with input from the associated
disciplines.
Closely manage all silvicultural activities
within riparian areas to minimize ground
disturbance. Use field reconnaissance to
determine the need for establishing a buffer
zone, the subsequent width necessary to
achieve management objectives, and any
restrictions on harvesting activities. When
determining the proper width of a buffer zone,
consider factors such as slope, stream
classification, channel stability, resources
dependent on these areas, and fisheries habitat
condition. A table is provided in the manual
with general buffer widths based on slope.
Operations on slopes greater than 40 percent
need to be given special technical consideration
and should be coordinated with the appropriate
technical agencies.
Whenever wetlands occur within the
boundaries of a proposed silvicultural
management operation, the Corps of Engineers
(COE) must be contacted to determine whether
the proposed activities are authorized by
regulation, exempt from regulation, or require
a permit.
Minimize erosion and sedimentation by
designing skidding patterns to fit the
topography and avoid on-site and downstream
channel impacts, the concentration of runoff,
and erosion in meadows and riparian areas.
Fell trees toward a predetermined skid pattern
to reduce impacts from the tractor. Protect
sensitive areas by winching logs directly out of
the areas with a cable operated outside the
areas. On steep slopes and in riparian areas
where tractors cannot operate, use suspended
log-yarding systems to minimize soil
disturbance and site impacts. These systems
include high-lead, skyline, helicopter, and
balloon yarders.
Develop an oil and hazardous substance spill
contingency plan whenever an activity requires
the aboveground storage of hazardous
substances or petroleum products. Federal
regulation requires a plan when more than
1,320 gallons of petroleum products are
stored, and state regulation requires that spills
in excess of 25 gallons of gasoline or 10
barrels of crude oil are reported to the
Wyoming Department of Environmental
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Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
Quality (DEQ). The plan should contain a
predetermined system of responses to be
implemented in the event of a spill that
considers the following factors: the specific
substance spilled; the quantity; its toxicity;
proximity of the spill to waters; and the hazard
to life, property, and the environment. Store
petroleum products and hazardous substances
on level ground at least 150 feet from riparian
areas and within a diked area that has
sufficient capacity to contain the largest
theoretical spill.
Properly plan, locate, and design sewage and
wastewater disposal facilities whenever
temporary camps are necessary for the
conduction of a silvicultural operation. These
facilities should not generate health or water
pollution problems. Construction of
permanent or temporary sanitary facilities
requires a permit from the DEQ. Garbage and
other solid wastes should be stored in animal-
proof receptacles and disposed of at a properly
designed, operated, and permitted landfill.
Development of water sources should be
consistent with water quality protection and
should aim toward the development of durable
long-term sources rather than the construction
of hasty, expedient developments. Do not
reduce downstream flow so as to detrimentally
affect aquatic resources, fish passage, sensitive
species, or other uses, and remove temporary
facilities prior to causing resource damage.
Time operation to not interfere with fish
spawning and/or migration. Construct
temporary cofferdams with materials that will
not introduce sediment into the watercourse.
Route overflow directly back into the
watercourse. Contact the State Engineer
before developing any water storage facility or
diversion. Also, a section 404 permit may be
required from the COE.
Son and water resource monitoring and
evaluation should be conducted to ensure
compliance with state water quality standards.
A specific monitoring approach is not
required, but the following factors should be
considered when deciding on a monitoring
regime: the size and type of operation, the
amount of road building required, and the
types of waterbodies at risk. -A specific
monitoring and evaluation plan should include:
monitoring objectives;
review of existing data and information;
characteristics to be monitored;
types, techniques, and frequency of
monitoring;
data analysis and evaluation;
reporting; and
cost.
When waterbody degradation or a water
quality standard violation occurs, remedial
action must be taken immediately. This may
involve rescheduling, redesigning, mitigation
for damage, or closing the operation.
2. Harvesting and Revegetation
Carefully manage equipment operations in
wetlands, even if the area is in a dry state, to
minimize erosion and water quality
degradation. Tractor operations in these areas
may be limited to specialized equipment and/or
entering the area during favorable weather
conditions.
Apply stream channel protection practices to
provide unobstructed streamflow and fish
passage, to maintain ambient stream
temperatures, to minimize introduction of
sediment and pollutants to watercourses, and to
restore watercourses to natural courses after
diversions. Avoid stream diversions unless
performed under the recommendation and
guidance of a professional hydrologist or
engineer, and contact the State Engineer's
office before constructing any diversion. Plan
the location and method of stream crossings
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prior to the commencement of the operation,
and design harvest units to minimize
, construction along watercourses and riparian
areas. Do not operate wheeled or tracked
equipment in stream channels, except during
stream crossing construction; when
groundsMdding, end-line logs out of
streamside areas. Remove construction or
logging debris that accidentally enters
watercourses and place above the ordinary
high water mark. Use water bars and other
erosion control structures to minimize erosion
and dissipate concentrated flows. At the close
of operations, return the stream channel and
banks to their original condition.
Locate and design landings to minimize
erosion and water quality degradation. Do not
locate landings in riparian or buffer areas.
Landings should be located to minimize the
required number of skid roads, to utilize
. existing terrain that does not exceed 10 percent
slope, and where the minimum amount of
excavation and sidecasting is needed. Where
possible, locate landings near ridge points to
facilitate skidding without crossing natural
drainages or riparian areas. The landing size
should not exceed that necessary for safe and
efficient skidding. Shape landings to drain in
a. planned direction and to minimize erosion
potential.
Provide erosion control measures on skid trails
as harvesting operations proceed. These
measures may include construction of cross
ditches, backblading, slash placement, and
grass seeding. Maintain all erosion control
and stream crossing structures to ensure that
ihey are functioning effectively.
Upon the completion of operations, landing
areas should receive treatment to reduce
surface compaction and enhance infiltration
and revegetation. Treatment can include
scarifying, smoothing and sloping construction
of drainage ditches, diversion of runoff prior
to entering the landing, spreading of slash, "
mulching, and revegetation.
Other areas disturbed by harvesting operations
(e.g., roads, skid trails, and firelines) may also
require revegetation. Consult a professional
forester, conservation district, or agricultural
office for information on appropriate soil
preparation, seed mixtures, application of
mulch and fertilizer, and timing of
revegetation efforts. If fertilizer is applied,
protect surface water and ground water.
3. Roads
Time road construction activities to minimize
erosion and avoid impacts to fish migration
and spawning. Restrict operations during
periods of excessive moisture.
Locate and design roads and trails to minimize
impacts on soil and water resources and to
ensure mat they drain naturally by appropriate
use of outsloping or insloping with cross
drainage and grade changes. Whenever
reliance on natural drainage is not sufficient,
install relief culverts and roadside ditches.
Use appropriate technical staff to evaluate the
effects of transportation needs and operation
and to recommend mitigating measures.
Design roads to the minimum standards
necessary to accommodate anticipated traffic
volumes and to minimize erosion and
disruption of water flow. Stream crossing
structure design should involve a hydrologic
analysis to determine runoff rates and
volumes, flood conditions, velocities, scour,
open channel shapes, approach topography,
materials foundation conditions, and fish
passage requirements.
Reduce chances for road-related mass failures,
including landslides and embankment slumps.
Provide subsurface drainage where it is
necessary to avoid moisture saturation and
subsequent slope failure. Horizontal drains,
165
-------
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
vvEPA
drainage trenches, or drainage blankets may be
used to lower subsurface water levels. Control
the composition and characteristics of
embankments in areas with high landslide
potential. Do not incorporate slash or organic
debris in embankments, and place embankment
material by layer placement, controlled
compaction, or controlled compaction using
density-controlled strips.
Minimize sediment production and mass
wasting during pioneer road construction.
Confine pioneer roads to the corridor of the
planned road. Prevent undercutting of the
final cut slope, avoid deposition of materials
outside designated roadway limits, and
accommodate drainage with culverts or log
crossings. Perform erosion control activity
concurrent with construction.
Reduce sedimentation from unconsolidated
excavated and sidecast material during road
construction and maintenance. The area of
exposed material can often be reduced by strict
adherence to the lines, grades, and dimensions
detaried in the road design. Prior to
commencing construction activities, locate
waste areas where excess material can be
deposited and stabilized; do not locate such
areas in stream channels, floodplains
wetlands, or riparian areas. On steep slopes,
use end hauling and retaining structures as
necessary. Supplement normal erosion control
with special mitigation measures.
Minimize the number of stream crossings, and
cross perpendicular to stream flow. Design
and install structures to provide unobstructed
stream flow and fish passage and to minimize
damage to the watercourse. Minimize stream
bank excavation. Temporary stream-crossing
structures should be removed upon completion
or operations.
When installation of permanent bridges or
culverts is necessary, minimize sedimentation
and turbidity resulting from excavation All
construction should be performed during
periods of low flow and should not interfere
with fish spawning or migration. Divert
stream flow around the construction site The
State Engineer must be notified of all stream
diversions, and a COE permit may be
required. Minimize operation of mechanical
equipment in live streams. Do not deposit
material in watercourses, and do not stockpile '
material on floodplains. If the groundwater
contribution is significant during excavation in
or near the stream course, use cofferdams
caissons, cribs, or sheet piling; otherwise
pump water away from the excavated area
Do not discharge pumped water directly to the
watercourse, but to a settling basin.
Implement erosion control practices during and
after road construction and prior to seasonal
precipitation and runoff. Erosion control is
extremely important on projects that
incomplete at the end of the normal operating
seasons. Revegetate exposed soils in
conjunction with mulching and fertilization
Implement measures that physically protect the
soil surface from detachment or modify the
topography to minimize erosion. These
measures can include treating the roadway and
ditches with chemical additives; using
mulches, riprap, or erosion mats; terracing on
cuts, fills, and ditches; and installing water
bars on temporary roads. Waste oil is not
appropriate as a surface treatment for forest
roads. Use slash filter windrows, catch
basins, anchored straw bales, or other water-
spreading devices to inhibit downslope
movement of sediment. Reduce soil
disturbance in or near streams by dewatering
culvert installations and immediately installing
culverts during road pioneering. Do not use
temporary pipes unless sedimentation can be
controlled during installation, use, and
removal. Properly design and construct road
drainage systems and drainage control
structures. Control the flow of surface and
-------
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
, subsurface water by insloping, outsloping,
and/or installing ditches, cross drains, ,
underdrains, trenches, water-spreading
devices, energy dissipators, and other similar
structures.
Mimmize sediment production from borrow
pits, gravel sources, and quarries. Provide
temporary erosion control during excavation
and permanent erosion control and
rehabilitation after excavation is complete.
Borrow pits and gravel sources located in
floodplains require special attention and
planning. Excavation should be limited to
above the normal high water mark. Contact
the DEQ before beginning operations.
Close or obliterate temporary roads. Remove
temporary culverts and bridges, and restore the
natural drainage configuration. Reshape and
stabilize side slopes. Effectively drain and
block the road, and revegetate.
4. Chemicals
Handle, transport, and apply pesticides in
accordance with the product label to reduce or
eliminate possible adverse effects on water
quality. Retain a buffer area of at least 150
feet along surface waters during application, of
pesticides. Do not aerially apply chemicals if
there are label restrictions prohibiting aerial
application. Develop a spill contingency plan.
Maintain records documenting the type and
mixture of chemical applied, area of
application, amount, rate, method and time of
application, and name of the person
performing the application. Pesticide
applications should be monitored and evaluated
to provide feedback on the placement,
accuracy, application amount, and any water
contamination that might occur. Monitoring
and evaluation methods include spray cards,
dye tracing, and direct measurement of
pesticides in or near water. Type of pesticide,
equipment, application difficulty, public
concern, beneficial uses, monitoring difficulty,
availability of competent laboratory analysis,
and applicable federal, state, and local laws
and regulations are factors considered when
determining the monitoring and evaluation
needs.
Clean and dispose of pesticide containers and
equipment in accordance with federal, state
and local laws, regulations, and directives.
Rinse containers three times, and apply the
rinse water to the project area. Maintain
records documenting container disposal.
Handle and apply fertilizers to reduce or
eliminate possible adverse effects on water
quality. Perform a soil test to confirm the
need for fertilization. Retain a buffer area
between the surface waters and the fertilized
area. The width of this buffer area is
determined by slope, vegetation, and soil
conditions. Maintain records documenting the
type of fertilizer applied, area of application,
amount applied, and method and time of
application.
5. Fire Management
Protect soil and water from the effects of
prescribed burning. Avoid intense fires that
may promote water repellency, nutrient
leaching, and erosion. Construct water bars in
firelines. Remove all debris added to stream
channels as a result of the burn. Retain or
plan for sufficient ground cover to prevent
erosion of the burned sites.
Stabilize all areas that have had their erosion
potential significantly increased or their
drainage patterns altered by fire suppression-
related activities. Install water bars and other
drainage diversions in fire roads, firelines, and
other cleared areas: Spread slash or mulch to
protect exposed soil, and revegetate. Remove
debris from stream channels deposited by
167
-------
Current NFS Control Practices for Forestry
4>EPA
suppression activities. Repair damaged road
drainage facilities.
Apply emergency rehabilitation treatments to
areas where wildfire burn is expected to
degrade water quality. These treatments can
include revegetating, fertilizing, fencing to
protect new vegetation, clearing debris from
watercourses, and constructing channel-
stabilization structures and debris-retention
structures.
State Contact:
Herbert Cottrell
State Forest Division
(307) 777-7586
FAX: 637-8726
Other Available State Information
Brochures Clean Water Ways is an NFS
newsletter; Wyoming
Hydrogram is a newsletter
published by Wyoming's Water
Resources Center
168
-------
APPENDIX A
OVERVIEW MATRICES OF STATE
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
-------
-------
Tables
Number
A-l Overview of Revegetation Practices ......
A-2 Overview of Road Surface Drainage
A-3 Overview of Skid Trail Practices . . . . . ...
A-4 Overview of Stream Crossing Practices . . .
A-5 Overview of Streamside Protection Practices
Page
. A-l
. A-4
. A-8
A-ll
A-15
A-i
-------
-------
Table A-l. Overview of Revegetatiort Practices
STATE
Alabama
, Alaska
Arkansas
California
Connecticut
SEED
MIXTURES
Obtain from local offices
of SCS or Cooperative
Extension
None
MULCH
Recommended; apply
immediately after seeding
-
FERTILIZER/
LIME
Soil test recommended;
incorporate into soil
1
. TIMING/SEEDBED
PREPARATION
Shape and smooth surface;-
rip or disk heavily
compacted areas
Seeding recommended on bare soils, but no specifications provided
Stabilization required, but no specifications provided
Types and rates; multiple
species recommended
Scattered hay, wood
chips, saw dust
Ground limestone:
100 lbs/1000 sq. ft. for
"Rough-up" heavily
compacted or rutted sites
Delaware
Honda
Georgia
Idaho
Hfinoi>
Indiana
Kentucky
Maine
Maryland
Types, rates, dates; based
on surface and weather
conditions
Types, rates; based on soil
quality and region
Types, rates; based on
region and seeding dates
Apply immediately after
seeding on credible soils
or during adverse
conditions; hay/straw:
1-1.5 tons/acre
wood fiber mulch: 1500
Ibs/acre;
Hay: 5000 Ibs/acre;
Small grain straw:
4000 Ibs/acre
acidic soils
Soil test recommended;
rates determined by soil
type/acidity; 1.5 tons lime
and 600 Ibs of 10-10-10
per acre
Base on soil or foliar
analysis; apply in early
spring
800-1000 Ibs/acre of
6-12-12; no BMPs
As season permits; shape
surface; rip compacted
toils
Stabilization required, but no specifications provided; specifications provided for buffer widths during fertilizer
applications
Tall fescue: 20 Ibs/acre;
Annual rye: 5 Ibs/acre
Types, rates, dates; based
on soil/surface quality and
intent (wildlife usage)
None
Obtain from local offices
of SCS or Cooperative
Extension; consider
wildlife habitat
enhancement; 20 Ibs/acre
creeping red fescue
Types, rates, dates; based
on region and site
conditions
BMPs provided
Hay: 5 to 6 straws deep 10-10-10 at 100 Ibs/acre
Various types; rates and
application remarks
provided
Hay, cereal straw, bark,
native vegetation; maybe
slash; apply hay at 60
bales/acre '
Apply immediately after
seeding on credible soils
or during adverse
conditions; hay/straw:
1-1.5 tons/acre; wood
fiber mulch: 1500 Ibs/acre
Incorporate to a depth of
4--6"; 70-80 Ibs N; 120
Ibs P,Oj; 120 Ibs K,O
400 Ibs/acre of 5-10-10 or
5-10-5
Soil test recommended;
rates determined by soil
type/acidity; 1.5 tons lime
and 600 Ibs of 10-10-10
per acre
Spring till 5/15;
8/15 to 9/30
Grade area; scarify
surface
Immediately following
construction; grade and
scarify surface
Within 7 days oh slope's
> 3096, otherwise end of
harvesting; shape and rip
surface
A-l
-------
Table A-l. Continued
STATE
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New
Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Sotnh Carolina
SEED FERTILIZER/
MIXTURES MULCH LIME
Types, rates, soil pH Hay: 60 bales/acre 2 tons/acre of lime;
ranSe 400 Ibs/acre of 5-10-10 or
5-10-5
Stabilization suggested, but no specifications provided
Obtain from local offices Yes
of SWCD, USFS, DNR,
county extension
Types, rates, dates, Apply immediately after 2 tons/acre of lime;
remarks for both seeding on credible soils 400 Ibs/acre of 10-10-10
temporary and permanent of during adverse' '" '' '"
vegetation; based on soil conditions; SCS guidelines
and site conditions; SCS provided
guidelines provided
Rates, dates Light mulch on droughty
soils
Revegetation recommended, but no specifications provided
Revegetation recommended, but no specifications provided
Types, rates for both Critical areas and Determine by soil test;
temporary and permanent droughty soils; hay or lime to pH 6.0; 2 tons/
vegetation; based on area, straw: 90 lbs/1000 sq. ft. acre limestone (high Mg);
drainage, soil pH, shade 500 Ibs/acre 10-10-10
None
Rates provided for various Hay, straw, wood chips
application methods;
based on region
TIMING/SEEDBED .
PREPARATION
4/15 to 6/15; 8/1 to 9/15
As soon as practical after
construction
Smooth and shape surface
Grade and scarify surface
(at least 3" deep)
June or early July
Discusses various seeding methods; provides information on seed mixtures, rates, dates, fertilizer, mulch, and
maintenance for the major physiographic regions and soil/site conditions; discusses mulching materials and chemical
stabilizers
Mixture type based on Straw preferred; provides 20 Ibs/acre of 14-14-14;
type of disturbance; rate, use and anchoring 400 Ibs/acre of pelletized
50 Ibs/acre guides lime
Types, rates, dates; Hay: 2.5 tons/acre 52-52-52 Ibs/acre
various application
methods discussed
None
Types, rates; wildlife 2.5-3.0 tons/acre of straw SoH test recommended;
usage included or hay 4 tons/acre of lime;
100-200-200/acre
General purpose mix and Hay: 500 Ibs/acre 1 ton/acre of limestone;
rale 500 Ibs/acre of 10-10-10
None
Loosen soil
Scanty
A-2
-------
Table A-l. Continued
STATE
SEED
MIXTURES
MULCH
FERTILIZER/
LIME
TIMING/SEEDBED
PREPARATION
Tennessee
Texu
Vennont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
"Wyoming
Types, rates, dates,
remarks for temporary
and permanent vegetation
701bs/1000sq.ft.of
clean straw or unmolded
hay
Soil test recommended;
2-3 tons/acre of lime '
300 Ibs/acre of 15-15-15
for temporary veg and
1000 Ibs/acre of 6-12-12
for permanent veg
Revegetation suggested for slopes greater than 5%, but no specifications provided
Type, rate, dates
Types, rates, dates,
remarks; based on
physiographic regions;
critical area planting
included
Hay: 60 bales/acre
Apply immediately after
seeding on credible soils
or during adverse
conditions; hay/straw:
1-1.5 tons/acre; wood
fiber mulch: 1500 Ibs/acre
2 tons/acre of lime;
240 Ibs/acre of 10-10-10
Rates determined by toil
type/acidity; 1.5 tons lime
and 600 Ibs of 10-10-10
per acre
8/15 to 10/15 or 2/15 to
4/15; shape and smooth
area; scarify surface
During seasons/weather
favorable for germination
As season permits; shape
and rip surface
BMPS provided
<
Revegetation suggested, but no specifications provided
Revegetation encouraged, but no specifications provided
Vegetative stabilization recommended, but no specifications provided; BMPs for fertilizers provided
A-3
-------
Table A-2. Overview of Road Surface Drainage
STATE
DRAINAGE STRUCTURES
SURFACE
DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION
OTHER
Alabama
Alaska
Arkansas
California
Connecticut
Delaware
Honda
Georgia
Malo
Tndisna
Kentucky
Wing ditches, Coweeta dip, broad-base Crown, out-slope, in-slope
dip; recommended spacing distances
are provided
Cross drains, ditches, relief culverts, Protect roadbed from rutting, ground
water ban, diversion ditches; disturbance, or thermal erosion
recommended spacing distances are
provided
Diversion and wing ditches, cross
drains, culverts
Drainage structures of sufficient size,
number, and location to minifm/a
erosion; specifications for water break
spacing, installation and maintenance
are provided
Diversion dips, broad-based dips,
water bars, ditch-relief culverts (pipe
and open-top culverts); spacing
distances are recommended
Turnouts, broad-based dips, rolling
dips, pipe and open-top culverts, water
bars; specifications for drainage
structure spacing and installation are
provided
Culverts, cross ditches, turnouts,
broad-based dips, water bars;
specifications for drainage structure
spacing are provided and are based on
site sensitivity classification
Turnouts, broad-based dips;
specifications for drainage structure
spacing and installation are provided
Relief culverts, roadside ditches, dips,
water bars
Drainage ditches
Drainage dips, water breaks;
recommended spacing distances are
provided
Culverts, drainage dips, water bars;
recommended spacing distances are
provided
Crown, out-slope .
When in-sloping, provide adequate
cross-drainage
Out-slope or in-slope to M to % inch;
crown roads to twice the pitch of in-
sloped or out-sloped roads
Out-slope road where gradient and soil
type permit; in-slope roads on grades
of 15 percent or greater or on slippery
soils; use cross drainage on in-sloped
or crowned roads
Avoid in-sloping roads
Out-sloping, in-sloping with cross
drainage, grade changes
Out-slope entire width of road to a
slope of 'A inch per foot or in-slope
and install additional drainage
structures
Direct discharge from drainage
structures onto undisturbed forest
floor or energy dissipators
Direct discharge from drainage
structure* onto vegetated areas and
away from unstable toils
Adequately size culverts to
accommodate anticipated water
flow; do not direct discharge from
drainage structures onto credible
material
Do not direct discharge from
drainage structures onto credible
material unless energy dissipators
are used
Protect discharge area with stone,
grass sod, logs, tree tops, or
natural litter
Direct discharge from drainage
structures onto undisturbed areas;
apply 2 to 3 inches gravel on steep
grades
Direct discharge from drainage
structures onto vegetated areas of
adequate size to assimilate
sediment loads
Avoid use of soft roads during wet
conditions
Disperse road drainage onto stable
forested areas and not directly into
streams
Do not operate equipment when
rutting in excess of 8 inches is
occurring
Minimize road use during wet
weather unless surface materials
permit all-weather use
A-4
-------
Table A-2. Continued
STATE
DRAINAGE STRUCTURES
SURFACE
DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION
OTHER
Louisiana Ditches, culverts, cross drains, water
bars
Maine, Broad-based drainage dips, skid
humps, water bars, cross drainage
culverts; recommended spacing
distances are provided
Maryland Turnouts, broad-based dips, rolling
dips, culverts; recommended spacing
distances are provided
Massachusetts Broad-based dips, water bars, open-top
and pipe culverts; Specifications for
design and spacing are provided
Michigan Broad-based dips, water bars, cross-
drainage culverts; recommended
spacing distances are provided
Minnesota Dips, water bars, open-top culverts,
cross drainage; recommended spacing
distances are provided ^
Mississippi Broad-based dips, water bars, culverts;
specifications for design and spacing
are provided
Missouri ' Broad-based dips, turnouts, culverts,
water ban; specifications for design
and spacing are provided
Montana Cross-drains, culverts, water bars,
dips; figures are provided for drainage
techniques
Nevada Water breaks, culverts, dips, cross-
. ditches, turnouts; specifications for
design and spacing are provided
New Broad-based dips, water bars, reverse
Hampshire grades, cross-drainage culverts, open-
top culverts; specifications for design
and spacing are provided
New Jersey Drainage structures
Crown, out-slope
Crown roads where possible
Out-slope road where gradient and soil
type permit; use cross drainage on in-
sloped or crowned roads
Crown road surfaces
Out-slope road where gradient permits;
in-slope roads on grades of 15 percent
or greater or on slippery toils
Surface road grades with significant
erosion potential; shape in-slopes and
backslopesto be IV4:1 or flatter
Out-slope the entire width of the road
Gravel surface where necessary to
prevent erosion
Out-slope or crown roads; inslope
roads with ditches and cross-drains
Out-sloping
Out-slope road in solid (rock) areas or
where discharge will be onto
undisturbed forest floor; in-slope roads
on wet or credible soils; crown roads
on steep side hills; surface road (with
gravel or crushed rock) if needed to
prevent rutting or erosion
Restrict traffic during periods of
excessive ground moisture
Direct discharge from drainage
dips into an undisturbed vegetated
Direct discharge from drainage
structures onto undisturbed forest
floor or install energy dissipators
Direct discharge from drainage
structures into filter strips or hay
bale impoundments; gravel or
mulch access roads to minimize
transport of sediment to public
highways
Install energy dissipators at cross-
drainage culvert outlets
Direct discharge from drainage
structures into filter strips or
vegetative draws, not open waters
Install erosion protection measures
at pipe outfalls
Direct discharge from drainage
structures into SMZs, filtration
fields, or other sediment settling
structures; do not discharge onto
erodible soils
Dissipate discharge from drainage
structures with stone, grass sod,
liner cover, slash, or logs; restrict
traffic during saturated soil
conditions
Discharge runoff away from
streams
A-5
-------
Table A-2. Continued
STATE
DRAINAGE STRUCTURES
SURFACE
DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION
OTHER
New Mexico Grade dips, cross-drains, water bars,
open-top culverts; specifications for
design and spacing are provided
New Yotfc Drainage structures
North Carolina Turnouts, broad-bated dips, rolling
dtps, pipe culverts, water bars;
specifications for design and spacing
are provided
Crown roads located on ridge tops and
fairly level land; on moderate slopes,
out-slope roads to W-V4 inch/foot
width; in-slope roads on steep slopes or
unstable soils and install cross drains
'Where conditions allow, out-slope the
entire road width; on steep .slopes, use
crushed stone on. road surface
Ohio
Turnouts, broad-based dips, rolling
dips, pipe culverts, open-top culverts;
specifications for design and spacing,
are provided
Ditches, culverts, cross drains,
drainage dips, water bars;
specifications for design and spacing
are provided
Crown, out-slope
Oregon
Dips, water bars, cross drains, culverts Out-sloping and grade changes
^Pennsylvania Culverts, broad-based dips, water bars;
specifications for design and spacing
are provided
Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Vcrmom
Virginia
Culverts, broad-based dips;
recommended spacing distances are
provided
Broad-based dips, culverts, turnouts,
water bars; specifications for design
and spacing are provided
Broad-based dips, rolling dips, water
bars, pipe and open-top culverts,
turnouts; specifications for design and
spacing are provided
Broad-based dips, pipe and pole
culverts, ditches, water bars, turnups;
specifications for design and spacing
are provided
Broad-based dips, rolling dips, pipe
and open-top culverts, water bars,
turnouts; specifications for design and
spacing are provided
In-slope or out-slope road to divert
water
Maintain road surfaces by grading and
out-sloping
Crown roads located on flat land; out-
slope roads on moderate slopes; in-
slope roads on steep, sharp turns and
slippery soils
Out-slope road where gradient and soil
type permit; in-slope roads on steep,
sharp turns and slippery soils; use
cross drainage on in-sloped or crowned
roads
Out-slope road where gradient and soil
type permit; ih-slope roads on steep,
sharp turns and slippery soils; use
cross drainage on in-sloped or crowned
roads
Dissipate discharge from drainage
structures with rocks, slash,
vegetation, or other energy
absorbing material
Discharge runoff away from
streams
Install an energy absorber at
drainage structure outlets to
minimize erosion
Do not direct discharge from
drainage structures onto credible
material unless energy dissipators
reused
Install an energy absorber at
drainage structure outlets to
minimize erosion
During wet weather, avoid using
roads
Provide adequate cross drainage
and divert water into areas with
good ground cover
Direct discharge from drainage
structures onto heavy litter, grass
sod, rock, or other energy
absorbing materials
Install an energy absorber at
drainage structure outlets to
minimize erosion
Design ditches to discharge onto
undisturbed, vegetated land
Install an energy absorber at
drainage structure outlet to
minimize erosion
A-6
-------
Table A-2. Continued
STATE
DRAINAGE STRUCTURES
SURFACE
DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION
OTHER
Washington Dips, diversion ditches, culverts, cross
drains, waterbars; specifications for
design and spacing are required
West Virginia Broad-based dips, culverts, ditches,
waterbars, specifications for design
, and spacing are provided
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Water bars, ditches, cross drains
Out-slope road
Out-slope entire road width to
inch where possible, otherwise in-slope
and install cross drainage
In-sloping, out-sloping
Do not direct discharge from
drainage structures onto credible '
material unless energy dissipators
aroused
Direct discharge from drainage
structures onto vegetated areas
and/or install energy dissipators
Provide road surface drainage
Treating with chemical additives to,
minimize soil detachment
A-7
-------
Table A-3. Overview of Skid Trail Practices
STATE
Alabama
Alaska
Arkansas
LAYOUT
Skid uphill to landing
Avoid steep slopes
Utilize topography
DRAINAGE
STRUCTURES
Water bars; no
specifications provided
Water bars; no
specifications provided
Water bars; no
specifications provided
REVEGETATION
Success equals 7556
cover; recommendations
for seed, mulch, and
fertilizer provided
Seed - no specifications
provided
OTHER
Minimize trail widths
Do not use stream
channels as trails
California
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia,
Idaho
dinolx
Indiana
Kentucky
Maine
No trails: on slopes
>65%; on slopes >5056
that lead to (without
flattening) Class I or n
watercourses; or in areas
with avenge slopes
>5056 and high erosion
hazard rating
Slcld uphill away from
streams
Locate landings first; no
grades>15%; skid uphill;
use zig-zag patterns
Skid uphill; concentrate
trails on organic soils and
disperse tra'ils on mineral
soils
Alternate skidding
between several trails
rather than one primary *
trail
Uphill yarding
Avoid high-hazard areas;
use low grades
Locate landings first; use
low grades; use zig-zag
patterns
Skid away from perennial
and intermittent streams;
avoid steep slopes
Avoid steep grades
Water breaks;
specifications provided for
spacing and installation
Pole culverts, broad-based
dips, water bars;
specifications provided
Culverts, water bars;
specifications provided
Water ban
Temporary culverts
Water ban, cross drains
Water diversions, cross
drains, waterban
Water bars, water
turnouts; specifications
provided
Seed steep sections; use
seed mixtures from
several species and mulch;
recommended seed
mixtures provided
Permanent vegetative
coven specifications
provided
Seeding specifications
provided
Specifications provided
for revegetation
Recommended on steep
sections; some
specifications provided
Do not skid through
perennial or intermittent
stream channels
Minimize number and
width of trails
Minimize number and
width of trails
Keep natural drains open
Do not use'streambeds as
trails; minimize number of
trails on steep slopes
Keep skidding distances
< % mile
A-8
-------
Table A-3. Continued
STATE
LAYOUT
DRAINAGE
STRUCTURES
REVEGETATION
OTHER
Maryland Locate landings first; use Water ban
low grades; use zig-zag
patterns
Massachusetts Use low grades
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Water ban
Use low grades; use zig-
zag patterns; use several
trails, not 1 primary trail
Minimize long, straight
trails
Water bars, dips
Locate landings first; use Water turnouts, water
low'grades , bars, cross drains
On trails >5% slope;
specifications provided
Yes; specifications
provided
Ye§ .
Yes; specifications
provided
Seed slopes >15%;
specifications provided
Skid outside SMZs
Skid outside buffer strip
j
Avoid filter strips
Missouri
l^lontana
Nevada
New
Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Designate prior to Water ban
operations; locate to avoid
concentrating runoff
Water breaks
Skid uphill to landings
Plan prior to logging Water bars
Concentrate skidding to a Water bars
few primary trails; use
zig-zag pattern; skid uphill
Use grades <20% Water ban
Skid upslppe on the Water ban
contour
Locate landings first; do Water ban
not skid straight up the
slope
Locate landings first; skid Dips
downslope
Use low grades
Yes
Yes; specifications
provided
Yes; specifications
provided
,
Yes; specifications
provided
Yes; specifications
provided
Yes; specifications
provided
Yes; specifications
provided
Do not skid in streams
Avoid 'filter strips; do not
skid in streams
Minimize number of
trails; do not skid in
streams or on banks
Avoid streams
Minimize number of
trails; do not skid in
streams or on banks
Skid outside SMZs; do
not skid in streams
Do not skid through
streams
Skid outside SMZs
.
Do not skid in streams or
spring seeps
Avoid streams
Limit trail number and
size
A-9
-------
Table A-3. Continued
STATE
Tennessee
LAYOUT
Use grades < 10%; use
zig-zag patterns; skid
DRAINAGE
STRUCTURES
Water bars, dips
REVEGETAT1ON
Yes; specification!)
provided
OTHER
Avoid streams and SMZs .
Texas
Verraoni
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
\VlSCOQSlQ
Wyoming
uphill
Locate landings first; use
grades <15S6
Water ban
On slopes >5%
Use low grades with Dips, pole culverts, water Yes; specifications
gradual angle; build from bars; specifications provided
top down
Skid above 50-yr flood
level
Use low grades
Use low grades
Fit topography
provided
Locate landings first; use Water bars
grades < 15%; use zig-
zag patterns
Water bars
Water bars
Water ban
On slopes >5%
Encouraged
As necessary
Avoid streams and SMZs;
ruts should not exceed 6"
deep
Skid outside SMZs; ruts
should not exceed 6" deep
Minimise trail Width
Minimize trail width;
void streams and SMZs
Minimize trail width;
avoid streams
A-10
-------
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A-14
-------
Table A-5. Overview
STATE NAME* WIDTH*
Alabama SMZ 35' minimum
Alaska RA Varies by landowner type
and water body
classification
Arkansas SMZ Site specific; no minimum
California WLPZ Varies by slope and Water
Class; SO' min for Class I
&n
Connecticut FS 25* min; varies by slope
Delaware SMZ 50* min; 100' min on
heavily credible slopes
Florida SMZ 35' min (primary zone);
varies by site sensitivity
classification (secondary
zone); 300' max
(discretionary zone)
Georgia SMZ , Primary zone (20'-80')j
secondary zone (0'-80')
\
of Streamside Protection Practices H
SHADING/STREAM-
TEMPERATURE*
50% crown cover for P
streams; vegetative cover
for I streams
Leave enough trees, but
no specific requirements
Varies by Water Class;
50% canopy retention
maximum
60% crown cover or 60
sq ft of basal area/acre
LOGGING APPLIC- 1
REQUIREMENTS ABILITY* |
Partial cut within 35' P/I » . 1
minimum , . ' ^1
No timber harvesting ^1
within 66' to 100' of
water body (depends on , ^1
' land type and water body ' , ^1
classification) ^1
^H
Selective logging ^1
Varies by Water Class; All 1
50% understory retention watercourses " H
maximum and lakes Hj
Partial cut P; bodies of H
open water , H
Primary SMZ - selective P/I; lakes £ H
cut leaving a volume Is 10 acres ^1
, 'A original; secondary -' ^1
SMZ-clcarcut
Do not use wheeled or ' P/I; lakes; ^1
tracked vehicles in ponds ^1
Idaho,
varies by region
SPZ 75' min on Class I stream;
5* min on Class n stream
Retain 75% current shade;
standing tree requirements
within 50' on Class I
streams varies by stream
width and DBH
primary zone
No tracked or wheeled
skidding on slopes > 45%
adjacent to Class I or II
stream
P/I
Illinois
Indiana
Kentucky
Louisiana
SMZ No width specified Provide shading; no
specifications provided
BS
SMZ 30'rnin; 50' min on steep Retain 50% canopy.
slopes; varies by slope
SMZ Larger the stream, wider
the SMZ; site specific
determination based on
soil type, slope, vegetative
cover, stream
characteristics, and worst .
. case storm flows
Selective harvesting;
minimize ground
disturbance
CAHC- 60' strip; leave
understory undisturbed;
remove only commercially
high-value trees
P
P; lakes; ponds
P/I; lakes
A-15
-------
Table A-5. Continued
STATE
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New
Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
OUahoma
NAME-
FS
SMZ
(BZ)
FS
BS
FS
FS
SMZ
SMZ
SMZ
FS
BS
BS
BS
SMZ
FS.SS
SMZ
WIDTH*
25' min; varies by slope
50' min on P itreami;
varies by slope - equation
provided
50' min; varies by slope
and increases in critical
areas
50" min; varies by slope
25* min; varies by slope
Varies according to slope
and erosion hazard
Primary is 25'; secondary
is variable
50' min
Determined by on-site
investigation
50' min; varies by slope
100' min on slopes <
30%; 150' min on slopes
>30%
50' min; varies by dope
50' next to clearcuts; 100'
min on slopes < 30%;
150' min on slopes>30%
50' min; varies by slope
and type of water body
FS variable by slope and
region (25M50'); SS is
25'
SHADING/STREAM
TEMPERATURE*
Provide for undisturbed
area; width determined
on-site
On P streams, retain 60%
crown cover or 60 sq ft of
basal area/acre
50% maximum basal area
removed
Along trout streams
Retain & 50% original
canopy
Retain sufficient shade on
P streams to prevent temp
fluctuations
No cut or light cut in SS
LOGGING
REQUIREMENTS*
On P streams, partial cut
S 40% of total timber
. volume 2s 6" DBHovera
10 year period
Partial cut
Partial cut; 3 year
intervals; winch
Retain 30 sq ft of basal
area
Do not remove > 50%
overstory when understory
is absent
In primary zone, cut only
W of zone and cable
timber; in secondary, W
cut but careful
groundskidding allowed
Partial cut (no clearcuts)
Do not expose mineral
soil
Selective
Do not disturb soil and
vegetation
Do not cut
Limited cutting
Selective harvesting along
P streams
APPLrC-
ABILITY*
P/I
P/I; surface
waters
All surface
waters
P/I; lakes;
ponds
P/I; lakes;
ponds
P/I; springs;
lakes
Surface waters
P; I that
support fish;
lakes
Surface waters
Water bodies
P/I
P; ponds;
marshes
P/I; beneficial
water bodies
Watercourses
A-16
-------
Table A-5. Continued
STATE
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
'NAME1 ,
RMA
ES
FS
SMZ
SMZ
WIDTH*
Variable
50' min; varies by slope
25* min; varies by slope
25 '.min; varies by slope
SHADING/STREAM LOGGING
TEMPERATURE* REQUIREMENTS*
Retain 75% shade and
50% canopy ' ' .
Retain 50-7556 canopy Selective
APPLIC-
ABILITY*
Class I waters
P
Streams
P
Texas
SMZ
50'
'shading stream
Evenly retain 50% crown
cover or 50 sq ft of basal
area/acre
Vermont
Vuginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
PS
SMZ
RMZ
FS
SMZ
BZ
50' min; varies by slope
50* min; varies based on
slope and water type
Charts/equations provided
to calculate width
25' min
Varies based on slope
(0'-1300*)
Evenly retain 50% crown
cover or 50 sq ft of basal
area/acre
Methods provided for
determining adequate
shade; temperature
prediction model available
Selective; must maintain
log transport machinery
outside 25'
Partial harvesting
Retain & 50% trees live
and undamaged;
specifications in Rules
Uncut or partial cut
Streams;
bodies
P; lakes;
water
ponds
Typel, 2, or 3
Waters
BS «= Buffer Strip; BZ = Buffer Zone; FS»= Filter Strip; PS = Protective Strip; RA = Riparian Area; RMA = Riparian Management
Area; RMZ = Riparian Management Zone; SMZ = Streamside Management Zone; SPZ = Streamside Protection Zone; SS = Shade
Strip; and WLPZ = Watercourse and Lake Protection Zone.
* P = Perennial Stream and I = Intermittent Stream.
* CAH = Coldwater Aquatic Habitats
A-17
-------
-------
APPENDIX B
INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM
THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STATE FORESTERS
-------
-------
Contents
State Contacts Obtained Through NASF . . . . . ; B-l
Technology Transfer Information Obtained by NASF Survey B-3
B-i
-------
-------
State Contacts Obtained Through NASF
Alabama
Don Burdelts
Environmental Forester
AL Forestry Commission
(205)240-9378
Alaska
No Contact
Arkansas
Randall L. Leister
AR Forestry Commission
(501) 664-2531 ext. 34
Arizona
Al Hendricks
(602)774-1425
California
Ross Johnson
Dept. of Forestry
(916) 653-4995
or
Pete Cafferata
DepL of Forestry
(916) 653-9455
Colorado
Tom Ostermann
CO State Forest Service
(303) 491-6303
Delaware
Nancy Milliken
Forestry Section
(302) 739-4811
Honda
JeffVowellor
Tom Gilpin
FL Division of Forestry
(904)488-4090
Georgia
Frank Green
GA Forestry Commission
(912) 751-3485
Hawaii
Wayne F. Ching
(808) 587-0166
Idaho
Jim Colla
ID Dept. of Lands
Box 670
Coeur D'Alene, ID 83814
Illinois
PeteSkuba
Forest Protection Program
Manager
IL Dept. of Conservation
(217) 782-2361
or
RickMollahan
Illinois EPA
(217)785-3958
Indiana
Daniel Ernst
Dept. of Natural Resources
(317)232-4106
Iowa
Bill Farris
Dept. of Natural Resources
(515)281-5145
Kansas
John K. Strickler
Dept. of Forestry
(913) 537-7050
Kentucky
Gary Perkins
KY Division of Forestry
(502) 564-4496
Louisiana
Donald P. Feduccia
Office of Forestry
(504) 925-4500
Maine
Ancyl S. Thurston
Bureau of Forestry
(207)287-2791 .....'
Maryland
Massachusetts
James W. Soper
Dept. of Environmental Management
Michigan
Edward E. Eckart
Department of Natural Resources
(517) 335-3351
Minnesota
Michael J. Phillips
Department of Natural Resources
(612) 297-4924
Mississippi
Everard Baker
MS Forestry Commission
(601) 359-2827
f
Missouri
Frank Hershey
Forest Stewardship Coordinator
Dept. of Conservation
(314)751-4115
Montana
Bill Schultz
Dept. of State Lands
Division of Forestry
(406)542-4300
Nebraska
Gary Hergenrader
Dept. of Forestry, Fish, and Wildlife
(402)472-2944
Nevada
New Hampshire
J.B. Cullen
(603)271-3456
B-l
-------
New Jersey
George H. Pierson, Chief
Bureau of Forest Management
(609) 292-2520
New Mexico
Garrett Blackwell
Forestry and Resource
Conservation Division
(505) 827-5830
New York
BartZek
Division of Lands and Forests
(518)457-7431
North Carolina ,
Whit Collier
Division of Forest Resources
(919) 733-2162
North Dakota
Larry Kotchman
ND Forest Service
(701)228-5490
Ohio
MarkErvin
Division of Forestry
(614) 265-6667
Oklahoma
Robert L. Miller
Dept. of Agriculture
Forestry Division
(405) 521-3864
Oregon
David Degenhardt
Dept, of Forestry
(503) 378-2957
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Tom Bourn
Director of Forestry
(401) 647-3367
South Carolina
Tim Adams
SC Forestry Commission
(803) 737-8800
South Dakota
Raymond A. Sowers
Division of Forestry
(605) 773-4260
or
Duane Murphy
DENR
(605) 773-4810
Tennessee
Robin Bible
Forest Hydrologist
Water Quality Management
Program
(615)360-0737
Texas
Roger Lord
Forest Resource Development
'Dept.
Utah
David C. Schen
Forest Stewardship Coordinator
(801) 538-5508
Vermont
Brian Stone
Dept. of Forests, Parks, and '
Recreation
103 South Maine Street
Waterbury, VT 05671-0602
or
John Maciejowski
Dept. of Forests, Parks, and
Recreation
RR 1, Box 33
North Springfield, VT 05150
Virginia
J. Michael Foreman
or Sam Austin
Dept. of Forestry
(804) 977-6555
Washington
Dan Bigger
(206)902-1410
West Virginia
William H. Gillespie
Forestry Division
(304) 558-3446
Wisconsin
Robert J. Mather
Dept. of Natural Resources
(608) 266-1727
Wyoming
Herbert Cottrell
State Forest Division
(307) 777-7586
FAX: 637-8726
B-2
-------
Technology Transfer Information Obtained by NASF Survey - Updated 1/93
ALABAMA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Alabama's Best Management Practices for Forestry (1989); it will be revised bv
end of 1993. .
Alabama's Best Management Practices for Forestry (19901; it is a condensed
pocket guide version of the full 1989. manual
Use BMPs to Protect Water Quality
Currently developing a BMP video; have developed a 15 minute and a 35 minute
slide presentation that provides a general overview of BMPs
Conducted a 5-day BMP training session at the request of specific forest products
companies, and have performed more than 55 shorter BMP presentations to both
forestry and non-forestry audiences
Our Treasured Forests, Alabama Forestry Commission's stewardship magazine
includes articles that relate to water quality '
ALASKA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Will print by end of 1993
Will print Forest Practices by end of 1993; it will emphasize education, prevention,
and enforcement
Will develop by end of 1993
Will develop by end of 1993
Training on implementation of Forest Practice Regulations and enforcement, held in
Anchorage and Ketchikan (May, 1992)
None
ARIZONA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
None
None
None
None
None
Natural resource conservation workshop for Arizona youth; Project Learning Tree
B-3
-------
ARKANSAS
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Vtdeo/Stido Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Best Management Practices Guidelines for Silviculture and A Guide to Better
Forestry Practices and Water Quality are for use by foresters, loggers, landowners,
and consultants; A Guide to Better Logging and Better Water Quality is targeted
primarily for loggers
None
None
Developed a slide presentation entitled Best Management Practices Guidelines for
training purposes
Arkansas Forestry Commission has conducted training since 1982; current training
is predominately one-on-one sessions, but they still occasionally conduct group
sessions
Both Forest Management Plans and Forest Stewardship Plans address water '
quality and BMP implementation
CALIFORNIA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
California Forest Practice Rules is updated annually and is intended for timber
operators, but is used by licensed foresters, attorneys and others
An extensive selection of publications are available from the California Department
of Forestry and Fire Protection that address various forestry issues and regulations
and assist operators and landowners to comply with the Forest Practice Rules
None
Developed videos for timber operators that address erosion control, streamside
protection, road building, yarding, felling, bucking, silviculture! systems and public
confidence
Training for Licensing as Timber Operators is a six-hour course presented every 6
weeks; Geology and Hydrology for Resource Professionals (3/88); Road Design
Workshop (3/88); Erosion Control and Slope Protection (3/88); Cumulative
Watershed Effects Short Course (10/88); Harvesting Our Trees While Retaining Our
Fish (4/89); Roads and Landings, Design, Layout, and Construction (3/90);
Workshop on site prep and erosion control (5/90); Cumulative Impact Training for
foresters (9/91); Forest Practice Enforcement (11/91); Foundation Silviculture 6/92
and (7/92); Archeology Training for Resource Professionals (26 completed. 8 in
1992)
None
Other Educational Material
COLORADO
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
None
None
None
None
Through the Stewardship program, BMPs for silviculture will be included in training
for resource management professionals, landowners, and forest industries
None
B-4
-------
CONNECTICUT
Manuals/Books ,
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
A Practical Guide for Protecting Water Quality While Harvesting forest Products
(1990) ,. '
Yes
None
None
Conducted training sessions in 1981, 1982 and 1990
None
DELAWARE
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
The State is currently preparing a BMP manual
Preparing a brochure to compliment video entitled BMPs for Loggers
A display that demonstrates the value of BMPs in forestry and the relationship of
trees and water quality
Two 15 minute videos entitled BMPs for Loggers and Pre-haryest Planning for
Landowners
Will be conducting training in Fall 1992/Winter 1993 for foresters, industry
personnel, staff, conservation district, and Delaware Department of Natural
Resources and Environmental Control when the BMP manual is formalized
None at present, but future projects include wetland demonstration areas and
supporting educational materials
FLORIDA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Silvicultural Best Management Practices Manual (1991); revised manual will be
printed in 1993
May print some after BMP manual revision is completed
Posters that address BMPs for silviculture
Developing two videos entitled Managing Florida's Forested Wetlands and BMP
Implementation
Have conducted 11 BMP workshops as of August 1992 and 3 more are scheduled
for Fall 1992; Workshops are designed for loggers and utilize BMP materials, field
trips, and slide presentations.
None
B-5
-------
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Trairunfl/Workshops
GEORGIA
Other Educational Material
Recommended Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia (1988)- Best
Management Practices for Forested Wetlands in Georgia (1990)
BMPs for Road Construction and Timber Harvesting Practices in Georgia; BMPs for
Site Preparation, Reforestation and Chemical Treatments in Georgia; BMPs alona
Trout Streams in Georgia B
Tabletop display that addresses forest water quality by comparing photos of
acceptable and unacceptable forest, management practices
Video entitled BMP is Not a Four Letter Word; slide program entitled Forest Water
Quality, developing a video entitled Environmental Firebreak Plowing Using BMPs
Conducted workshop BMPs for Georgia's Forested Wetlands on April 2-4 and
l~?JL l"^ ta^0etina Professional foresters. 506 attended; conducted workshop
BMPs for Georg,a's Forested Wetlands on December 3. 4. and 7. 1991 targeting
landowners. 100 attended; 12 workshops on BMPs for State Fish and Game
personnel; will conduct workshops upon request for timber companies, and their
foresters and loggers
BMP bumper sticker
IDAHO
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
1 ^^^^"^^^^i^^
Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Idaho Forest Practices Act Title 38
Chapter 13, Idaho Code. '
Preparing brochure entitled BMPs and Water Quality
A forest stewardship display highlights BMPs as an integral component of
stewardship
Video scheduled for late 1992 or early 1993 entitled Forest Water Quality. It is e
joint Stewardship. Forest Practices Act. and Extension project
Series of state-wide workshops conducted each spring; topics include Forest
Practices Act, BMPs. fish habitat, water quality, and stream ecology
A newsletter type publication entitled State Forester Forum focuses upon specific
subjects, including BMPs. forest management, insects, disease, etc.
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
None
None
None
None
Training workshop for loggers 10/89; provided training to SCS and SWCD staff
1990-1992; developing training program for loggers by 1993 to be used on a
continuous basis
None
B-6
-------
INDIANA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Logging Roads and Skid Trails: A Guide for Soil Protection and Timber Access
Best Management Practices: Protecting the Woods While Harvesting; Woodlands
Make Poor Pastures
None .
Video entitled Harvesting with the Forest; anticipate developing a forestry water
quality management video
Conducted workshop (11/89) at a recently harvested site that demonstrated
proper construction and placement of water bars using skidders, dozers, farm
tractors, and hand construction, and demonstrated seeding, fertilizing and
mulching operations; plan to conduct workshop on skidder operation training to
minimize soil and residual stand damage and increase efficiency; comprehensive
logger training scheduled for 1993 that will include silvicultural BMPs
BMPs are standard part of timber sale contracts on State lands; developing a
contract with BMPs for private landowners
IOWA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
None
None
None
None
None
Forest Land Stewardship - Cost Share Assistance; Converting CRP to Trees; Iowa
Tree Planting Guide; Grazing Iowa Woodlands; Forestry and Ag Diversification;
Harvesting and Regenerating Upland Woodlands; Management of Floodplain
Forests; Environmental Effects of Woody Vegetation
KANSAS
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
None !
Developing brochures that will address comprehensive management of riparian and
wetland forests for water quality and other multiple benefits
None .
Slide program entitled Riparian Forest Management that discusses forestry and
water quality
Planning committee is developing a training session on riparian forest management
None
B-7
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KENTUCKY
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Kentucky Forest Practice Guidelines for Water Quality Management (1992}
Developing Kentucky Pocket Guide tc> BMPs
None
Video and slide-tape program developed as an overview for BMP implementation;
video entitled Kentucky Forest Practice Guidelines for Water Quality Management
Intensive training for loggers on the need and use of BMPs is planned
None
LOUISIANA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Recommended Forestry Best Management Practices for Louisiana (1988)
None
None
Two videos entitled Let's Clean Up Our Act and Leading the Way with BMPs
Seven state-wide sessions conducted during the summer of 1992
None
MAINE
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook for Maine Timber Harvesting Operations
Best Management Practices (1991); Best Management Plans (1992); Lesson Plan
for BMPs (1992)
Developing a condensed version of BMP manual; developing lesson plans for BMPs
for use by any trainer
None
None
Over 450 loggers trained through the Certified Loggers Program; training sessions
by the York and Cumberland Soil and Water Conservation Districts
None
B-8
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MARYLAND
Manuals/Books
<
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Maryland's Guide to Forest Harvest Operations and Best Management Practices
(1992) . .
Forest Harvest Access Practices (Pocket Guide) and How to Get Logging Permits
Approved in Maryland's 23 Counties - these documents are being revised and
combined into a single document; Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines for
Forest Harvest Operations in Maryland :'',',
Monocacy River Watershed Project; Susquehanna River Watershed Project,
Logging in Non-Tidal Wetlands '
Sediment Control Training for Forest Harvest Operations; developing Best
Management Practices for Logging on the Delmarva ,
Workshops for loggers, landowners, foresters, wildlife biologists, etc. have been
conducted since 1984; regional training teams have been established and will
conduct at least 8 workshops per year for logger training, including BMPs !
Stewardship Incentive Programs #5 Soil and Water - Erosion Control
MASSACHUSETTS
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Massachusetts Best Management Practices Timber Harvesting Water Quality
Handbook; will update as Forest Cutting Practices Act regulations are revised
Stewardship brochures : ,
Displays at various fairs and field days on BMPs as part of overall forest
management program
Currently developing
Conducted three workshops state-wide involving slide show on stream crossing
study by consultant, slide show on BMPs by USFS representative, and field visits
to good and bad BMP situations (Summer 1989); vernal pool workshops involving
slides of wetland wildlife habitat and field visits to vernal pools to discuss BMPs
(Summer 1990); planning logging and wetland .workshops for 1993
None
MICHIGAN
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Water Quality Management Practices oh Forest Land
None
None
Video entitled Michigan's Dynamic Forest, which discusses silviculture! practices
of major forest types and various public values; not a water quality video
Thirteen BMP workshops conducted Fall 1990 through Spring 1992 for loggers.
landowners, industry, consultants. State Forester's staff, and other resource
managers
Stewardship program includes water quality emphasis
B-9
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MINNESOTA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Vidoo/SIido Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
sg,
(1989). the DNR/Forestrym cooperation with the forestry community and water
quality agencies »!develop by June 1993 wetland BMPs to implement the MN
Wetlands Conservation Act of 1991
Best Management Practices for Water Quality in Urban. Agricultural and Forestry
Applications is a general brochure for landowners; Water Related Land Use
Programs: Shore/and Management, Wild and Scenic Rivers, Floodplain
Management is for landowners in shoreland areas; A Guide for Buying and
Managing Shoreland is for zoning administrators and Jandowners in shoreland areas
None
Best Management Practices in Minnesota Forestry is an overview of BMPs for
loggers, landowners and resource managers based on the forestry BMP guidebook
400 loggers attended 13 workshops (Spring 1991); 400 natural resource
professionals attended 10 workshops (Fall 1991); 6+ workshops are planned for
Spring 1993 for woodland advisors, lake advocates and county woodland
committees
Woodland Stewardship plans contain information on water quality protection and
mclude a copy of the BMP guidebook; DNR/Forestrv BMP team is available to
conduct education programs; BMP monitoring program is in place to measure and
evaluate appl.cat.on and effectiveness of BMPs - inspecting 120+ sites in 1992
and the audits are to be used as field training for landowners
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Mississippi's Best Management Practices for Wetlands; Silvicultural Best
Management Practices for MS; Mississippi's Best Management Practices Handbook
Yes
Dept. of Environmental Quality has developed a display about NPS pollution
Video entitled Best Management Practices
Yes
Missouri Watershed Protection Practices: Management Guidelines for Maintaining
Forested Watersheds to Protect Streams (1990)
None
None
Developed a slide series on stream management, but it is no longer in use
Annual standard training provided to new foresters
None
B-10
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MONTANA
Manuals/Books >
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Montana Forestry Best Management Practices
Forestry BMPsForest Stewardship Guidelines for Water. Quality, developing
summary of forest practices by early 1993
Poster - Forestry and Water Quality: during Winter 1992/1993, creating 3 displays
for use at fairs and other public gatherings that will address BMPs, SMZs and good
vs bad practices
Slide/tape series - forestry and Water Quality; Montana Logging Association slides
on roads and SMRs with narrative; developing video on BMPs and SMZs; plan to
develop a PSA on logging and water quality
Series of BMP workshops for loggers and landowners sponsored by MT Logging
Association (1989-1990); East MT workshop for landowners and industry (7/90);
BMP field training for Service foresters (Fall 1990); road engineering training for
service and State lands forester (Winter/Spring 1990); Workshop on SMZs
(Summer/Fall 1991); field soils training with relations to logging, BMPs, and SMZs
(Fall 1991); both field and informational session on SMZ law (Spring/Summer
1992); workshops planned for Fall 1992 and Winter 1993
None
NEBRASKA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
None
None
None
None
None
None
NEVADA
'Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays ,
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
None . . /
Incline Village/Crystal Bay Defensible Space Handbook - reduce wildfire threat
compatible with other environmental values, especially water quality
None
None ,
None
None
B-ll
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NEW HAMPSHIRE
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Bast Management Practices for Erosion Control on Timber Harvesting Operations in
New Hampshire
Foresters pocket field guide for loggers; BMP book for landowners
None .
None ' ' -
Workshops held in 1990; Wetlands evaluation workshop for foresters (5/92);
additional workshops planned for 1993
None . . .
NEW JERSEY
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Developing a wetlands forestry manual for foresters and forest landowners
None . . ~
None
None
Workshop Freshwater Wetlands: Identification and Regulation to provide trainino
for foresters (9/92)
None
NEW MEXICO
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
New Mexico Forest Practices Guidelines: Water Quality Protection Guidelines for
Forestry Operations in New Mexico; Reducing Erosion from Unpaved Rural Roads
in New Mexico
None
None
Slide presentation NM State Forestry 208 Program discusses ways to reduce
nonpoint silviculture! pollution
Have held many formal and informal sessions for loggers, landowners, and State
Forestry staff since 1983
None
B-12
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NEW YORK
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Will publish by 1993; developing field guide entitled Choosing and Using BMPs
Timber Harvesting Guidelines for New York; A Clean Harvest; New York State
Cooperating Timber Harvester Program
None . ,
None
Three or four workshops are conducted annually as part of the Cooperating Timber
Harvesters Program; at least one workshop per year is specifically on BMPs and
erosion prevention '
None ' -'.'
NORTH CAROLINA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
North Carolina Forestry Best Management Practices Manual (1989); North Carolina
Forest Practice Guidelines Related to Water Quality (1989); Pocket Guide to Forest
Practice Guidelines (1990)
Forestry Leaflets: Summary of Performance Standards; Forestry Leaflets:
Streamside Management Zones; Forestry Leaflets: Suggested Provisions for Timber
Sale Contracts; Forestry Leaflets: Becoming a Forest Steward in North Carolina
\
Display entitled Best Management Practices composed of color pictures showing
examples of BMPs
Two videos entitled SMZ Streamside Management Zones and Maintaining Your
Exemption from SPCA Paperwork
State Forester and Extension has presented programs together and separately;
industry groups, consulting foresters, and State Forestry personnel have received
BMP training
None
NORTH DAKOTA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
None , '
Brochure by ND State Health Department on ND Rules and Regulations (ND
Standards for Water Quality) " '
None ,
Numerous videos and PSA produced by ND State University Extension; Clean
Water - Clean Choices by the National Association of Soil Conservation Districts
ND State University Extension sponsors an annual symposium on water quality for
agencies and the general public
Numerous publications by ND State University Extension on water quality; a
speaker's bureau was developed by the North Dakota Water Quality Task Force in
1990 and its members are available to speak on water quality issues
B-13
-------
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
BMP's for Erosion Control on Logging Jobs
Planting Filter Strips to Improve Water Quality
Will develop Forest Filter Strips in 1993
None
Forestry (4/90); Best Management Practices Workshop for Loggers
(11/90); BMP trainers workshop scheduled for 2/93
None
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
OKLAHOMA
Forest Manager's Guide for Water Quality Management in Oklahoma
Developing a pocket guide on forestry BMPs
None .
Video entitled Logging BMPs and Water Quality, developing video about road
rehabilitation
Workshops planned for 1993 - will emphasize roads and logging
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Forest Practice Rules (1991)
Waterbars; Road Maintenance; Ditch Relief Culverts; Riparian Protection
The Oregon Practices Act is a display of the primary topics of the Forest Practice
nuies ,
The Man and the Machine is a slide program and script promoting skidding
practices that protect water quality
Slope Stability (1984); Riparian Protection (1987); since 1990. training efforts
have focused on explaining and implementing the requirements of the Forest
Practices Act, particularly rules related to sensitive bird sites, threatened and
endangered species, significant wetlands, clearcut size and spacing, snag, live tree
and downwood retention, and scenic corridor management; planned for 1993 is
Classification and Protection of Waters of the State
Oregon State University Forestry Extension has developed an enormous selection
of publications and videos
B-14
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RHODE ISLAND
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Currently developing and will publish by 1993
Planning Wetlands - A Landowner's Responsibility to Know, a brochure that will
detail BMPs for silviculture! operations in wetland areas
None
None . .
Planning wetland workshops to educate the forestry community on wetland BMPs
Rhode Island Stewardship Directory
SOUTH CAROLINA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Voluntary Forest Practice Guidelines for South Carolina (1988) - currently being
revised; Best Management Practices's for South Carolina's Forested Wetlands; A
Survey of Voluntary Compliance of Forestry Best Management Practices x
Let's Lead the Way with Best Management Practices; Forestry BMPs.'.. A
Woodland Owner's Guide to Good Stewardship
None . .
Videos entitled Let's Clean Up Our Act and Let's Lead the War. slide program
entitled General BMP's, Wetland BMP's, and South Carolina's 1991 Silviculture!
AfPS Program
BMP awareness for loggers and procurement foresters at 14 locations (1989);
BMP awareness for landowners at 20 locations (1992); will offer BMP
interpretation meetings statewide when revised BMP manual is published
. None ..-.,'
SOUTH DAKOTA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Preparing BMP manual, but final publication date not established
Will develop once BMPs are adopted
None ,
Currently developing video
None
None . - '
B-15
-------
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Best Management Practices for SiMcultural and Other Forest Activities in
^^SSSSZttZttS^,
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Work: Pi
Tabletop display for meetings on BMPs
^
B-16
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VERMONT
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Acceptable Management Practices for Maintaining Water,Quality on Logging Jobs
in Vermont (1987); Wetland Rules and Regulations: What They Mean to Your
Logging Operation in Vermont
Brochure to accompany the video
None , ,
Video entitled Plank Skid-trail Bridge Construction; slide program on silviculture for
Vermont loggers .
t '
Series of three workshops to train loggers in 1989; planning another series of
workshops for 1993
VIRGINIA
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Forestry Best Management Practices for Water Quality in Virginia (1989)
forest Landowner and Water Quality; Debris in Stream Law; Landowners, Loggers,
Foresters Use BMPs, which describes 5 main BMP problems; a series of brochures
on main BMP work areas '
Prepared 6-panel exhibits for each region that show primary watersheds and BMPs;
special exhibits created for the East Coast Logging Expo in Richmond May 1988
and 1990
Three videos entitled Managing Mountain Forests for Clean Water (25 min),
Impact of BMP Regulations on Maryland Logging (10 min). and BMPs for Logging
(15 min); slide show entitled Forestry Program in Virginia
BMP training meetings statewide from 11 /88-3/90, 1.990 attended; 8 regional
field demonstrations (10/89), 500 attended; field trip for VA Environmental Staff
on Wetlands and BMPs (4/89); wetland delineation workshop for VA DOF (9/91);
wetlands delineation workshop planned for Spring 1993; training module on BMP
installation planned for Summer 1993
Stewardship information packet on water quality; two page summary for VA
legislature (9/92); and a door mounted BMP inspection form for loggers (11/92)
WASHINGTON
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Forest Practices Rules and Regulations; Board Manual and Guidelines; Forest
Practices Act ,
Fact Sheets and Heads-Up describe changes to the Forest Practice Rules and
provide a general summary of new rules; Monitoring Guidelines to Evaluate Effects
of Forestry Activities on Streams in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska
Displays on .forest stewardship, activities that impact the environment, and
mitigation or protective measures
Video entitled Wall-based Channels that describes fish habitat off main channels
Workshops on shade requirements, wildlife reserve tree requirements, wetland
delineation, even-aged harvest size, class IV forest practices, and watershed
analysis have been conducted; scheduled training includes sediment mitigation,
water temperature modeling, and procedures for voluntary watershed agreements
B-17
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Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
Manuals/Books
Brochures
Posters/Displays
Video/Slide Programs
Training/Workshops
Other Educational Material
^
^^
Keeping Mud Out of the Stre
ws; tores, Owners ana L ogg!ng Roatjs
Poster antifed ManBg!ng
. and
for fiscal year 1992-93 1989-1991; 100 workshops scheduled
sponsored
WYOMING
__
Best Management Practices for Silviculture - Second Draft
None
None
Jvrest StewarclshiD: The Conservation of Wyoming's Forest mheritanc*
B-18
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