# Regional Scenario List

Scenario_Name:
Graded Area, Gravity Flow Surface Application

Scenario_Description:
This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area or channel installed down slope from a livestock production area. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is properly collected and released with a controlled gravity outflow into the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This practice addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility (313), Fence (382), Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant (533), Subsurface Drain (606), Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land Forming (462), Waste Treatment (629)

Before:
Nutrient rich wastewater is running off from an animal operation that has the potential to pollute surface waters or ponding and leaching into groundwater.

After:
Typical VTA is 1.0 ac in size, includes a gravel trench for distribution flow (sheet flow) into the VTA. Typically requires grading and shaping, gravel spreader trenches and perforated pipe to maintain sheet flow throughout the VTA. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632). For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pre-treatment prior to being released into the VTA. The VTA practice will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater into a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources.


Scenario_Name:
Graded Area, Pumped Into A Basin, Gravity Flow Surface Application

Scenario_Description:
This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area or channel located upslope from the livestock production area. The topography of the site requires wastewater to be pumped uphill to the VTA designed system. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is properly collected at the production area and pumped uphill to a shallow tank or basin where it has a controlled gravity outflow into the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This practice addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility (313), Fence (382), Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Irrigation System, Sprinkler (442), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant (533), Subsurface Drain (606), Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land Forming (462), Waste Treatment (629).

After:
Typical VTA is 1.0 ac in size, includes the installation site to be upslope from the production area with a shallow tank or basin that provides a controlled gravity outflow into the VTA. Typically requires grading and shaping, gravel spreader trenches and perforated pipe to maintain sheet flow throughout the VTA. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632) and Pumping Plant (533) to get the wastewater upslope to the VTA distribution point. For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pretreatment prior to being released into the VTA. The VTA practice will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater into a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources.


Scenario_Description:
This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area located adjacent to a livestock production area. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is properly collected at the production area and pumped to mechanically distribute wastewater onto the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This practice addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility (313), Fence (382), Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Irrigation System, Sprinkler (442), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant (533), Subsurface Drain (606), Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land Forming (462), Waste Treatment (629)

After:
Typical VTA is 1.0 ac in size, includes the sizing, grading and shaping of the VTA area. Typically requires grading and shaping to maintain sheet flow onto the VTA. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632) and Pumping Plant (533) to get the wastewater to the VTA mechanical distribution component that is contracted using Irrigation System, Sprinkler (442). For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pretreatment prior to being pumped and distributed onto the VTA. The VTA practice will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater into a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources.


Scenario_Name:
Existing Vegetative Area, Gravity Flow Surface Application

Scenario_Description:
An existing permanent herbaceous vegetated area that meets the requirements for a VTA and is used as an overland flow area for nutrient rich runoff treatment. A flow distribution component is installed to achieve sheet flow at the start of the VTA. Clean runoff is diverted where possible. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This practice addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich runoff that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility (313), Fence (382), Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Irrigation System, Sprinkler (442), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant (533), Subsurface Drain (606), Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land Forming (462), Waste Treatment Area (629)

After:
Typical VTA is 1.0 ac in size, includes gravel trenches and perforated pipe to establish sheet flow into the VTA where an existing permanent herbaceous vegetated area meets the requirements for a VTA. Does not include any grading or seeding. The VTA practice will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich runoff into an existing vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich runoff and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources.


Scenario_Name:
Existing Area, Pod Sprinkler System Distribution

After:
Typical VTA is 2.0 ac in size. Typically does not require grading and shaping to maintain as uniform application onto the VTA is made through a mobile pod type sprinkler system. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632) and Pumping Plant (533) to get the wastewater to the VTA. The system is sized such that the total number of Pods will distribute wastewater to half of the VTA, 1 ac. The pods will be relocated to distribute wastewater to the other half of the VTA. The VTA is 400 ft x 220 ft. A 400 ft pipeline with 8 risers spaced 50 ft apart extends down one side of the VTA. Each Pod Line is 200 ft long with 5 pods spaced at 40 ft increments. The total number of Pods is 20 (8 risers/2 x 5 pods/line = 20 pods). For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pretreatment prior to being pumped and distributed onto the VTA. The VTA practice will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater onto a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources.


Scenario_Description:
Construct an apron, approximately 50 feet wide by 90 feet long, utilizing: a plastic or rubber membrane laid on a prepared ground surface; or an asphalt or concrete surface with curbing; to collect rain water. Divert collected water from the surface catchment by gravity through an 8" diameter, PVC SDR-35 pipe to an existing tank or plastic-lined earthen reservoir. Exclusion of animals is required, so conservation practice 382 - Fencing, may be needed to protect the catchment. Resource Concern: Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock water. Associated Practices: 382 - Fencing; 614 - Watering Facility; 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; and 521A - Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane.

Before:
Inadequate water available to address resource concerns. Client hauls water to supply needs.

After:
Design and construct an impervious surface as the primary collection component, and a pipe to convey the water to create a reliable water supply for livestock.


Scenario_Description:
Build a wooden frame, "post-and-pier" structure, with a corrugated metal roof (dimensions are 24 feet wide by 20 feet long), to collect rain water. The structure is supported by 9-each, "poured-in-place", concrete footings (dimensions are 2'x2' square x1' thick), 8 feet on-center, with tie-down straps. Divert collected water from catchment area with guttering and downspout through a 4" diameter PVC Schedule 40 pipe, to a tank (not included )for a reliable storage and subsequent use. Resource concerns: Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock water; Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated practices: 382 - Fence; 614 - Watering Facility; or 436 - Irrigation Reservoir.

After:
The guttering and downspouts collects the roof runoff and the water is conveyed through a pipe, by gravity, to a storage tank for use by livestock or a very small irrigation system. This system is the primary collection component of a Water Harvesting Catchment (CPS 636) facility. Divert collected water from roof with guttering and downspout through a 4" diameter PVC Sch-40 pipe,


Scenario_Description:
Typical scenario s for the construction of 700 CY earthen embankment. Outlet is typically an underground outlet. An earthen embankment or combination ridge and channel generally constructed across the slope and minor watercourses to form a sediment trap and water detention basin. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. Costs include all equipment necessary to excavate, shape, grade and compact the Water and Sediment Control Basin and mobilization of equipment. This practice is utilized to reduce watercourse and gully erosion, trap sediment, reduce and manage onsite and downstream runoff. Sheet and rill erosion will be controlled by other conservation practices.

Before:
Farming fields with excessive slope length has resulted in multiple rills and/or ephemeral gullies that will continue to worsen over time. The excessive erosion may lead to deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. Resource concern addressed includes soil erosion and water quality by trapping sediment and/or reduce erosion in a field to protect riparian areas and water bodies from sediment deposition. Surface water causes erosion and the sediment (and potentially pesticides) to be transported into the riparian areas and water bodies downstream.

After:
Water and Sediment Control Basis is constructed with 700 CY of excavation/earthfill with dozer, scraper and/or road grader. Rill and/or gully erosion is reduced. If riser and underground outlet are needed, then include Underground Outlet (620). Include Critical Area Planting (342) where necessary to prevent erosion following construction activities.


Scenario_Description:
Typical scenarios for the construction of 700 CY earthen embankment. Prior to building the embankment, 6 inches of topsoil is removed and stockpiled. Outlet is typically an underground outlet. An earthen embankment or combination ridge and channel generally constructed across the slope and minor watercourses to form a sediment trap and water detention basin. Topsoil is replaced following construction of the embankment. Costs include all equipment necessary to strip and stock pile topsoil, excavate, shape, grade and compact the Water and Sediment Control Basin, spread and replace topsoil after construction and mobilization of equipment. Seeding not included. This practice is utilized to reduce watercourse and gully erosion, trap sediment, reduce and manage onsite and downstream runoff. Sheet and rill erosion will be controlled by other conservation practices. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader.

Before:
Site has shallow topsoil which if removed by earthwork for construction of embankment will significantly impact yields. Farming fields with excessive slope length has resulted in multiple rills and/or ephemeral gullies that will continue to worsen over time. The excessive erosion may lead to deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. Resource concern addressed includes soil erosion and water quality by trapping sediment and/or reduce erosion in a field to protect riparian areas and water bodies from sediment deposition. Surface water causes erosion and the sediment (and potentially pesticides) is being transported into the riparian areas and water bodies downstream.


Scenario_Description:
Typical scenario s for the construction of 200 CY earthen embankment. Outlet is typically an underground outlet. An earthen embankment or combination ridge and channel generally constructed across the slope and minor watercourses to form a sediment trap and water detention basin. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. Costs include all equipment necessary to excavate, shape, grade and compact the Water and Sediment Control Basin and mobilization of equipment. This practice is utilized to reduce watercourse and gully erosion, trap sediment, reduce and manage onsite and downstream runoff. Sheet and rill erosion will be controlled by other conservation practices.

After:
Water and Sediment Control Basis is constructed with 200 CY of excavation/earthfill with dozer, scraper and/or road grader. Rill and/or gully erosion is reduced. If riser and underground outlet are needed, then include Underground Outlet (620). Include Critical Area Planting (342) where necessary to prevent erosion following construction activities.


Scenario_Description:
Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur at <100 feet of depth from the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or improve the efficiency of an existing irrigation system. An average well depth is 50 feet, using PVC or steel well casings 4-6" in diameter.

Before:
Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. Major resource concern is Inadequate Water for domestic animals or wildlife.

After:
Sufficient water is available for livestock or wildlife. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where necessary to prevent erosion following construction activities.


Scenario_Description:
Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur at >100-300 feet of depth from the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or improve the efficiency of an existing irrigation system. An average well depth is 200 feet, using PVC or steel well casings 4-6" in diameter.


Scenario_Description:
Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur at 300 - 600 feet of depth from the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or improve the efficiency of an existing irrigation system. An average well depth is 450 feet, using PVC or steel casing 4-6" in diameter.


Scenario_Description:
Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur > 600 feet of depth from the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or improve the efficiency of an existing irrigation system. An average well depth is 700 feet, using PVC or steel casing 4-6" in diameter.


Scenario_Description:
Typical construction is for the excavation of a shallow dug well. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock. A typical dug well is 4 foot in diameter and 15 feet in depth. The well is excavated using a backhoe. Excavate to a depth where the water recharge is greater than the equipment can remove. Washed gravel is placed in the base of the dug opening. Concrete manhole risers are installed to hold the water. Pea gravel is placed above the washed gravel to transition to the earth backfill. The hole is backfilled and sloped to direct surface water away from entering the manhole cover.

Before:
Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source.

After:
Sufficient water is available for livestock. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where necessary to prevent erosion following construction activities.


Scenario_Description:
Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur >300 feet of depth from the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock. An average well depth is 400 feet. Well casings are 4-6" in diameter. Steel casing is installed to a depth of 400 feet. Location is remote - more than 50 miles from an improved roadway.

Before:
Remote locations where livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source.

After:
Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where necessary to prevent erosion following construction activities.


Practice:
643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario_Name:
Habitat Monitoring and Management, Very-Low Intensity and Complexity

Scenario_Description:
This scenario is applied to all landuse types were the native plant condition (i.e. T&E plant species) or wildlife habitat is the resource concern, and where very-low intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1 monitoring effort is needed and each requiring 2 people and 4 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 16 hours of labor per year.

Before:
Rare or declining habitat is deficient and annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of very-low intensity and complexity will improved conditions.

After:
Rare and declining habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of very- low intensity and complexity.

Feature_Measure:
Monitoring efforts and adaptive management actions


Scenario_Name:
Habitat Monitoring and Management, Low Intensity and Complexity

Scenario_Description:
This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where native plant conditions (T&E plants) or wildlife have been identified as the resource concern, and where low intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1 monitoring effort is needed and each requiring 2 people and 3 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 8 hours labor per year.

Before:
Rare or declining habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity.

After:
Rare and declining habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity.


Scenario_Name:
Rare or Declining Habitat Monitoring and Management, Medium Intensity and Complexity, with Forgone Income

Scenario_Description:
This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified related to rare or declining habitats, and where medium intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring 2 people and 3 hours per effort. Two adaptive management efforts are required (such as cutting of limbs that impede monitoring efforts, replacing damaged fence markers, or other minor adaptive management activities). The adaptive mgmt. requires hand labor and the occasional use of light equipment. A crew of 2 is needed for the hand labor efforts. Mowing of roads and trail is required to provide access for monitoring and management.

Before:
Rare or declining habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity.

After:
Rare or declining habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity.


Scenario_Name:
Habitat Monitoring and Management, High Intensity and Complexity, with Forgone Income

Scenario_Description:
This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where high intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring 2 people and 4 hours per effort. Two adaptive management efforts are required (such as cutting of limbs that impede monitoring efforts, replacing damaged fence markers, or other minor adaptive management activities). The adaptive mgmt. requires hand labor and the occasional use of light equipment. A crew of 2 is needed for the hand labor efforts. Mowing of roads and trail is required to provide access for monitoring and management.

Before:
Wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of high intensity and complexity.

After:
Wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of high intensity and complexity.


Scenario_Name:
Development of Shallow Micro-Topographic Features with Normal Farming Equipment.

Scenario_Description:
This typical scenario is installed on open non-wetlands. The purpose is to increase plant species richness and diversity, create micro-habitats for invertebrates, increase water infiltration and reduce run-off. The area is plowed to loosen the soil. Then the soil is excavated with normal farming equipment (e.g. tractor and box-blade) to a depth of 2-6 inches and immediately deposited. This lowering and raising of a box-blade restores the original micro-topographic features (6' X 6' depressions and mounds) common to most landscapes and landforms prior to clearing, tilling, and annual mowing. Restoration of shallow but frequent micro-topographic features has been lost by the smoothing action of tillage, mowing and the original land-clearing. This scenario it typically implemented for ecosystem restoration projects such as prairie restoration and range-land restoration, and particularly on moderately well-drained soils.

Before:
Micro-topographic features have been eliminated by past conversion to agriculture and/or past cultural practices. This has resulted in the lack of micro-soil moisture gradients within the field. The opportunity for plant species richness and diversity is minimal. Water storage potential is absent. Water rapidly runs off the field after rains and snow melt, carrying nutrients, solids and surface organic materials. No micro-ponding sites are available for invertebrate use.

After:
Shallow micro-depressions and mounds are numerous. This varied micro-topographic features provided varied moisture gradients required for high plant species richness and diversity. Wildlife habitat is improved. Water conservation is increased, increasing vegetative production. Water quality is improved as the micro depressions capture sediments, nutrients and manure. Over time, the micro-depressions become more nutrient rich than the micro-highs, further increasing plant species richness.


Scenario_Name:
Development of Deep Micro-Topographic Features with Heavy Equipment.

Scenario_Description:
This typical scenario is installed on open non-wetlands, where micro-topographic features have been removed by past farming and/or ranching cultural practices. The purpose is to increase plant species richness and diversity, create micro-habitats for invertebrates, increase water infiltration and reduce run-off. The area is plowed 2 weeks prior to excavation to kill existing vegetation and allow for proper dirt work. Then the soil is excavated with track equipment (dozer) to a depth of 6-12 inches and immediately deposited. This lowering and raising of a dozer -blade restores the original deep micro-topographic features (10' X10' depressions and mounds) common to many landscapes and landforms prior to the lands conversion to agricultural lands. This scenario it typically implemented for ecosystem restoration projects such as wetland restoration (herbaceous or prior to planting of woody species), prairie restoration and range-land restoration. It is most commonly applied to well-drained soils as the purpose is for the micro-depression to pond water for short duration (less than 7 days).

Before:
Micro-topographic features have been eliminated by past conversion to agriculture and/or past cultural practices. This has resulted in the lack of micro-soil moisture gradients within the field. The opportunity for plant species richness and diversity is minimal. Water storage potential is absent. Water rapidly runs off the field after rains and snow melt, carrying nutrients, solids and surface organic materials. No micro-ponding sites are available aquatic dependent invertebrates. Vertebrate wildlife habitat is lacking diversity.

After:
Deep (6" - 12" depth) micro-depressions and mounds are numerous. These varied micro-topographic features provide varied moisture gradients required for development of high plant species richness and diversity. Wildlife habitat is improved. Water conservation is increased, increasing vegetative production. Water quality is improved as the deep micro-depressions capture sediments, nutrients and manure. Over time, the micro-depressions become more nutrient rich than the micro-highs, further increasing plant species richness.


Scenario_Name:
Micro Structures for arid land restoration

Scenario_Description:
Very small structures, typically 12-18 inches tall and 15-25 feet long, are constructed in ephemeral water flow patterns that occur on arid lands that need to be restored. This captures and retains small pockets of moisture on the landscape to facilitate plant establishment. Typically constructed with fill materials from the site and with multiple structures in an area. Used in conjunction with Range Planting, Critical Area Planting, or Tree and Shrub establishment. May be constructed with small equipment or manually.

Before:
Arid land with a degraded plant community that requires restoration. Resource concerns could include plant community health or wildlife habitat.

After:
Structure impounds water on a small area creating a resource island for plant establishment.


Scenario_Description:
A bioengineering structure consisting of wooden posts set in a row across stream channels or gullies with willow cuttings woven between the posts (also called, Beaver Dam Analogues or Wicker Weirs). Structures can be installed by a small crew by hand using post pounder. The structure is designed to mimic the function of natural beaver dams by reducing water velocities, increasing sediment deposition, initiating aggradation, and enhancing floodplain connectivity. It is low and permeable allowing water to pass over and through it helping to gradually raise the channel bed and encourage more frequent floodplain inundation. These structures are used to restore hydrologic function, channel complexity, and encourage recovery/expansion of riparian and wetland vegetation. Addresses resource concerns in rare and declining habitats including riparian areas, wet meadows, and aquatic ecosystems.

Before:
Degraded stream channel or gully has accelerated flow, reduced sediment deposition, and infrequent floodplain access. Extent of potential mesic vegetation is reduced due to lack of inundation or low water table. Channel complexity is insufficient to permit proper hydrologic function and riparian/wetland recovery.

After:
Reduced water velocities, increased sediment deposition, channel aggradation, and enhanced floodplain connectivity result in an expansion of mesic vegetation and restoration of rare and declining habitats including riparian areas, wet meadows, and aquatic ecosystems benefiting a variety of species.


Scenario_Description:
A low cost, low risk rock structure will be installed at the head of the gully to arrest the continued cutting of the gully up hill. The structure is designed to protect the soil surface from further erosion while dissipating water energy. Below the headcut structure a series of structures will be installed to reduce water velocity and cause deposition of sediments to heal the gully and reduce drainage from the adjacent upland area. This will reduce the loss of and restore mesic riparian/meadow habitats. Typical installation involves the installation of one structure to address head-cutting and three additional structures to reduce stream velocity and collect sediment. The headcut structure typically requires 1.5 cubic yards of rock. Typical sediment checks require 1.0 cubic yards of rock. This scenario addresses Soil Erosion, classic gully and inadequate fish and wildlife habitat.

Before:
Head cutting is proceeding uphill creating a gully that serves as a drain to the adjacent habitat lowering the local water table reducing the available moisture to the adjacent mesic plant communities. Mesic riparian/meadow habitats shift to more xeric habitats and the period of active growth is reduced.

After:
Head cut is arrested, stopping the advance of the gully uphill and protecting mesic riparian/meadow habitats upstream. Additionally sediment is collected, raising the base of the gully and restoring the hydrologic regime and mesic riparian/meadow habitats. Revegetation is generally via natural regeneration. Should additional revegetation be needed, use vegetation standards, 612, Tree and shrub establishment, 550, Range Planting, 342 Critical Area Treatment.


Practice:
644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario_Description:
This scenario is applied to wetlands within all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where very-low intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1-2 monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and 4 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 16 hours of labor per year.

Before:
Wetland wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of very-low intensity and complexity.

After:
Wetland wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of very- low intensity and complexity.


Scenario_Name:
Wetland Wildlife Habitat Monitoring and Management, Low Intensity and Complexity

Scenario_Description:
This scenario is applied to wetlands on landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where low intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1-2 monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and 4 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 8 hours labor per year.

Before:
Wetland wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity.

After:
Wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity.


Scenario_Name:
Habitat Monitoring and Management, Medium Intensity and Complexity, with Foregone Income

Scenario_Description:
This scenario is applied to wetland areas located on all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where medium intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two or three monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and less than 8 hours per effort. Two or three adaptive management efforts are required (such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures). The adaptive mgmt. requires hand labor and the occasional use of light equipment. A crew of 2 is needed for the hand labor efforts and the crew will require less than 16 total hours of labor per mgmt. effort. Mowing of roads and trail is required to provide access for monitoring and management. Deferment of use for one season to implement adaptive management action will be needed.

Before:
Wetland wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity.

After:
wetland wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity.


Scenario_Name:
Habitat Monitoring and Management, High Intensity and Complexity, with Foregone Income

Scenario_Description:
This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where high intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two - four monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and less than 8 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions (2 - 5 efforts) such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires hand labor and light equipment, requiring a 2-person crew less than 1 day per effort. Deferment of use for one season to implement adaptive management action will be needed.


Scenario_Description:
This typical scenario is installed on non-forested wetlands, including open lands prior to tree planting. The purpose is to increase plant species richness and diversity, create micro-habitats for invertebrates, increase water infiltration and reduce run-off. The area is plowed to loosen the soil. Then the soil is excavated with normal farming equipment (e.g. tractor and box-blade) to a depth of 2-6 inches and immediately deposited. This lowering and raising of a box-blade restores the original micro-topographic features (6' X 6' depressions and mounds) common to most landscapes and landforms prior to clearing, tilling, and annual mowing. Restoration of shallow but frequent micro-topographic features has been lost by the smoothing action of tillage, mowing and the original land-clearing. This scenario it typically implemented for ecosystem restoration projects such as prairie restoration and range-land restoration, and particularly on moderately well-drained soils.


Scenario_Description:
This typical scenario is installed on non-forested wetlands (or open land prior to tree planting), where micro-topographic features have been removed by past farming and/or ranching cultural practices. The purpose is to increase plant species richness and diversity, create micro-habitats for invertebrates, increase water infiltration and reduce run-off. The area is plowed 2 weeks prior to excavation to kill existing vegetation and allow for proper dirt work. Then the soil is excavated with track equipment (dozer) to a depth of 6-12 inches and immediately deposited. This lowering and raising of a dozer -blade restores the original deep micro-topographic features (10' X10' depressions and mounds) common to many landscapes and landforms prior to the lands conversion to agricultural lands. This scenario it typically implemented for ecosystem restoration projects such as wetland restoration (herbaceous or prior to planting of woody species), prairie restoration and range-land restoration. It is most commonly applied to well-drained soils as the purpose is for the micro-depression to pond water for short duration (less than 7 days).


Scenario_Name:
Establishment of seasonal wildlife forage or cover on non-cropland

Scenario_Description:
The habitat assessment identifies the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This habitat need will be met through the establishment of annual plants by planting of seed. The typical scenario will occur on areas supporting perennial herbaceous vegetation, not currently in cropland. Due to existing dense vegetation, these area will need to be mowed 2-3 weeks prior to disking (primarily disking), then followed by a light disking. Seed bed preparation will be furthered by firming the seed bed by cultipacking the site. Mixed fertilizer is required to establish planted wildlife forage. A seedmix consisting of annuals is typical for this activity.

Before:
The existing habitat has an excess of herbaceous perineal habitat suitable for cover, but is lacking high quality forage seasonal forage, or the cover conditions is too thick and establishment of annuals create a diverse cover condition for the target wildlife species.

After:
The availability of high-quality seasonal forage for the target wildlife species is provided and target wildlife health is improved, and populations are increased.


Scenario_Name:
Establishment of annuals for wildlife on cropland, without FI

Scenario_Description:
The habitat assessment identified the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This identified habitat need will be met through the establishment of annual vegetation by planting of seed. This typical scenario is that this activity will occur on cropland, but outside of the normal cropping season. Thus, income will not be foregone. Seed bed preparation will be furthered by firming the seed bed by cultipacking the site. The only fertilizer need is N as this is cropland and P and K levels are sufficient.

Before:
Cropland that fails to provide adequate wildlife habitat (forage and/or cover) seasonally for the target wildlife species..

After:
The availability of high-quality seasonal forage for the target wildlife species is provided and target wildlife health and populations are increased.


Scenario_Name:
Establishment of annual vegetation on cropland, with FI

Scenario_Description:
The typical scenario is applied on cropped wetlands (cropland). The habitat assessment identified the lack of wildlife forage or cover during the same season of year as crops are grown. In response to the need to provide wetland dependent wildlife needed forage or cover during the cropping season, annual wildlife forages will be planted on cropland for one year, in lieu of the traditional cash crop. Seedbed preparation is limited to one light disking and cultipacking. The only fertilizer need is a light application of N as cropland P and K levels are sufficient. These wildlife forages and/or seasonal cover are planted in lieu of the cash crop, such as a corn and soybean rotation. Thus, income from the traditional cash crop will be foregone for the year.

Before:
The existing habitat is cropland, lacking high quality forage for cover during the cropping season.

After:
Annual wildlife forages are planted in lieu of a cash crop. Target wildlife health is improved and local populations are increased.


Practice:
645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario_Name:
Monitoring and Mgmt, Low Intensity, no FI

Scenario_Description:
Setting is grazing lands with the potential to provide upland wildlife habitat and that potential is not currently being captured. The identified upland wildlife habitat limiting factors can be restored, enhanced or created, with the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other supporting and facilitating practices. Monitoring will be used to determine if the conservation system meets or exceeds the minimum quality criteria for the targeted wildlife. Management will be implemented based on the findings of the habitat assessment and monitoring. Upland wildlife habitat management and monitoring needed to treat the resource concerns requires no training, no qualitative data assessment, no water quality monitoring and is low in complexity and intensity. Examples of prescribed monitoring, include but are not limited to: photo points taken, use documentation by livestock, regeneration/breeding success, completing an annual management records log, documenting wildlife sightings, documenting location and species of invasive plants and condition of vegetative and structural treatments. No decision or treatment associated with this practice or facilitating practices will require income foregone. The planner will specify locations and identify the methods to the customer who will implement the monitoring and management plan. Facilitating practices may include but not limited to: 314, 315, 327, 342, 380, 384, 390, 391, 422, 472, 490, 511, 528, 550, 612, 647, 650, 654, 660, 666.

Before:
Existing degraded plant conditions and resulting inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife have resulting in low use of the area by target and associated upland wildlife species.

After:
Based on the results of a State-approved upland wildlife habitat assessment process, the application of upland wildlife habitat management efforts and prescribed monitoring have been implemented. With the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other supporting and facilitating practices, the inadequate upland wildlife habitat conditions have addressed. Monitoring has maximized the benefits of the needed upland wildlife habitat treatment efforts.


Scenario_Name:
Monitoring and Mgmt, Medium Intensity with FI

Scenario_Description:
Setting is grazing lands with the potential to provide upland wildlife habitat and that potential is not currently being captured. The identified upland wildlife habitat limiting factors can be restored, enhanced or created, with the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other supporting and facilitating practices. Monitoring will be used to collect information/data that will result in adaptive management adoption. Upland wildlife habitat management and monitoring needed to treat the resource concerns may require training, no qualitative data assessment, no water quality monitoring and is medium in complexity and intensity. Examples of monitoring, include but are not limited to: photo points taken, use documentation by livestock, regeneration/breeding success, completing an annual management records log, documenting wildlife sightings, documenting location and species of invasive plants and condition of vegetative and structural treatments. Decisions or treatments associated with this practice or facilitating practices will require income foregone due to the deferment of livestock. The planner will specify locations and identify the methods to the customer who will implement the monitoring and management plan. Facilitating practices may include but not limited to: 314, 315, 327, 342, 380, 384, 390, 391, 422, 472, 490, 511, 528, 550, 612, 647, 650, 654, 660, 666.


Scenario_Name:
Monitoring and Mgmt, High Intensity with FI

Scenario_Description:
Setting is grazing lands with the potential to provide upland wildlife habitat and that potential is not currently being captured. The identified upland wildlife habitat limiting factors can be restored, enhanced or created, with the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other supporting and facilitating practices. Monitoring will be used to determine if the conservation system meets or exceeds the minimum quality criteria for the targeted wildlife. Management will be implemented based on the findings of the habitat assessment and monitoring. Upland wildlife habitat management and monitoring needed to treat the resource concerns may require training, qualitative data assessment, water quality monitoring and is high in complexity and intensity. Examples of prescribed monitoring, include but are not limited to: qualitative data assessment or water quality monitoring, photo points taken, use documentation by livestock, regeneration/breeding success, completing an annual management records log, documenting wildlife sightings, documenting location and species of invasive plants and condition of vegetative and structural treatments. Decisions or treatments associated with this practice or facilitating practices will require income foregone. The planner will specify locations and identify the methods to the customer who will implement the monitoring and management plan. Facilitating practices may include but not limited to: 314, 315, 327, 342, 380, 384, 390, 391, 422, 472, 490, 511, 528, 550, 612, 647, 650, 654, 660, 666.


Scenario_Name:
Monitoring and Management, Low Intensity with Foregone Income

Scenario_Description:
Setting is a grazing lands with the potential to provide habitat for species of plants and animals identified as Rare and Declining and the habitat potential is not currently being captured. The identified habitat limiting factors can be restored, enhanced or created, with the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other supporting and facilitating practices. Monitoring will be used to determine if the conservation system meets or exceeds the minimum quality criteria for the targeted wildlife. Management will be implemented based on the findings of the habitat assessment and monitoring. Habitat management and monitoring needed to treat the resource concerns requires no training, no qualitative data assessment, no water quality monitoring and is low in complexity and intensity. Examples of prescribed monitoring, include but are not limited to: photo points taken, use documentation by livestock, regeneration/breeding success, completing an annual management records log, documenting wildlife sightings, documenting location and species of invasive plants and condition of vegetative and structural treatments. No decision or treatment associated with this practice or facilitating practices will require income foregone. The planner will specify locations and identify the methods to the customer who will implement the monitoring and management plan.

Before:
Existing degraded plant conditions and resulting inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife have resulted in low use of the area by target species identified as Rare and Declining and associated species.

After:
Based on the results of a State-approved upland wildlife habitat assessment process, the application of habitat management efforts and prescribed monitoring have been implemented. With the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other supporting and facilitating practices, the inadequate habitat conditions have been addressed. Monitoring has maximized the benefits of the needed habitat treatment efforts.


Scenario_Name:
Establishment of seasonal wildlife forage or cover on cropland, no FI

Scenario_Description:
This typical scenario occurs on cropland. The habitat assessment identified the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This habitat need will be met through the establishment of annual food plants or cover plants by planting of seed. The typical scenario for seasonal forage or cover will be established outside of crop season, thus FI is not needed. Seedbed preparation (light tillage) will be furthered by firming the seed bed by cultipacking the site. The only fertilizer need is N as this is cropland and P and K levels are sufficient. Cropland, so mobilization of equipment not needed.

Before:
Cropland that fails to provided food or cover for target species at the proper location and season to meet the needs of wildlife.

After:
The availability of high-quality seasonal forage or seasonal cover for the target wildlife species is provided. Target wildlife health is improved and populations are increased.


Scenario_Name:
Establishment of seasonal forage or cover for wildlife on cropland, with FI

Scenario_Description:
The habitat assessment identified the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This habitat needs will be met through the establishment of annuals by planting of seed. The typical scenario is for cropland. Seed bed preparation is limited to one light disking, furthered by firming the seed bed by cultipacking the site. The only fertilizer need is N as this is cropland and P and K levels are sufficient. These wildlife forages or seasonal cover will be available for wildlife during the cropping season, and are in lieu of the cash crops typically planted on the field. Thus, income from the cash crop will be foregone for a year.

Before:
Cropland does not provide forage or cover needed for wildlife during the season on dearth.

After:
Annual wildlife forages are planted in lieu of a cash crop. Target wildlife health is improved and populations are increased.


Scenario_Name:
Establishment of seasonal forage or cover for wildlife on non-cropland.

Scenario_Description:
The habitat assessment identifies the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This habitat need will be met through the establishment of annual plants by planting of seed. The typical scenario is that this activity will occur on herbaceous areas, not currently in cropland. Due to existing dense vegetation, these area will need to be mowed 2-3 weeks prior to disking (primarily disking), then followed by a light disking. Seed bed preparation will be furthered by firming the seed bed by cultipacking the site. Mixed fertilizer is required to establish planted wildlife seasonal forage or seasonal cover..

Before:
The existing habitat has an excess of herbaceous perineal habitat, but is lacking high-quality seasonal forage, or the existing cover is too dense and cover conditions found in annual plant communities are absent.

After:
The availability of high-quality seasonal forage, or cover condition common in annual plant communities is provided and target wildlife health and populations are increased.


Practice:
646 - Shallow Water Development and Management

Scenario_Description:
This scenario addresses inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife on cropland. The resource concern is addressed by providing shallow water habitat for wildlife such as shorebirds, waterfowl, wading birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and other species that require shallow water for at least part of their life cycle. Sites are flooded up to a depth of 18" with an average depth of 9". Water is provided by natural flooding and/or precipitation.

Before:
There is inadequate habitat to provide optimum resting, nesting, and feeding habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife (amphibians, reptiles, mammals, invertebrates, etc.).

After:
A single or series of shallow water areas that are managed per standard and specification. Water levels are regulated to maintain temporary wildlife habitat. Timing and duration of flooding and de-watering is dependent on specific species requirements. Water is pumped into area to be flooded. Flooded sites vary from mudflats to water depths of 18" with an average depth of 9". The hydrologic conditions of ponding and saturation (frequency, depth, duration, timing) provides optimum seasonal habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife (amphibians, reptiles, mammals, invertebrates, etc.). If needed and dikes or water control structures are not currently present on the fields planned to be flooded, these practices may be planned for the same fields and cost shared under Structure for Water Control (587) and Dike (356). If a natural water source (i.e. precipitation or flooding) is not available, Pumping Plant (533) may be cost shared to provide a water source. Depending on local conditions, other Conservation Practices may also be required.


Scenario_Description:
This scenario addresses inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife on cropland. To facilitate practice code 643, 644, 645, or 395, seasonal shallow water is provided annually for target species by purchasing of water, lifting of such water, monitoring of the water quality, response by target plant community, use by target flora or fauna. Sites are flooded up to a depth of 18"with an average depth of 9". Monitoring and adaptive management accomplished of existing water control structures is accomplished to meet very specific conditions needed to address previously identified degraded plant conditions or inadequate habitat for fish and/or wildlife. This high-level management is applied to lands used for crop, pasture, hay, forests or wildlife lands where target flora and fauna have been identified as a primary concern. Loss of some level of crop, forage, hay or forest products may occur depending on site specific conditions.

Before:
The site has existing infrastructure (reliable water source, dikes, water control structures, pumps, gates) to provide a reliable seasonal water source. The site is not subject to frequent natural flooding. The potential benefits to target fauna and flora is not being captured. The purchase of water, supply of water and intensive management of season water, coupled with monitoring, adaptive management from highly trained individuals will fully address the identified degraded plant conditions and/or inadequate habitat for fish and/or wildlife.

After:
A single or series of shallow water areas that are managed per standard and specification. Water levels are regulated to maintain temporary wildlife habitat. Timing and duration of flooding and de-watering is dependent on specific species requirements. Water is pumped into area to be flooded. Flooded sites vary from mudflats to water depths of 18" with an average depth of 9". The hydrologic conditions of ponding and saturation (frequency, depth, duration, timing) provides optimum seasonal habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife (amphibians, reptiles, mammals, invertebrates, etc.). If Dikes or Water Control Structures are not currently present on the fields planned to be flooded, these practices may be planned for the same fields and cost shared under Structure for Water Control (587) and Dike (356). If a natural water source (i.e. precipitation or flooding) is not available, Pumping Plant (533) may be cost shared to provide a water source. Depending on local conditions, other Conservation Practices may also be required.


Practice:
647 - Early Successional Habitat Development/Management

Scenario_Description:
This scenario address inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife where setting back succession by mowing incoming woody species will improve habitat for the target species. Mowing can be used to increase structural diversity by creating areas of shorter vegetation preferred by some species or certain life stages of species. This scenario can be used nationwide. The typical setting for this scenario is at the edge of crop fields, in pastures, at the edge of woodlands or brushy areas, and in odd areas such as pivot corners. Where the management of woody plants is require to create or maintain early successional habitat conservation practice 314 brush management or 666 forest stand improvement should be used. Where chemical control of weeds, including invasive, is required to reduce competition for the desired plant community conservation practice 315 herbaceous weed control should be used. Where the seedbank is inadequate for natural regeneration and seeding is required use conservation practice 550 range seeding or 327 Conservation Cover. Where the need is to create early successional habitat within or at the edge of woodland or forest use conservation practice 666 forest stand improvement to remove trees.

Before:
The site is static or trending to later successional plant community. The disturbance regime to maintain an earlier successional plant community is lacking. Pastures are often monotypic, lacking in diversity. Competition for sunlight from dense grass stands prevents seedling establishment. Stands are often dense and inhibit the movements of young wildlife such as game bird chicks. Area lacks diversity in the height of vegetation.

After:
Early successional habitat maintained. Mowing has provided more sun light for forb establishment. The heterogeneity of the habitat structure has been increased.


Scenario_Description:
This practice addresses inadequate wildlife habitat for species requiring early successional habitat. This scenario provides early successional habitat by setting back succession and manipulating species composition by disking vegetation and creating bare ground. The typical setting for this scenario is at the edge of crop fields, in pastures, and in odd areas such as pivot corners. This scenario is applicable nationwide. Where the management of woody plants is require to create or maintain early successional habitat conservation practice 314 brush management or 666 forest stand improvement should be used. Where chemical control of weeds, including invasive, is required to reduce competition for the desired plant community conservation practice 315 herbaceous weed control should be used. Where the seedbank is inadequate for natural regeneration and seeding is required, use conservation practice 550 range seeding or 327 Conservation Cover. Where the need is to create early successional habitat within or at the edge of woodland or forest use conservation practice 666 forest stand improvement to remove trees.

Before:
The site is static or trending to higher successional plant species. The disturbance regime to maintain a lower successional stage is lacking. Pastures are often monotypic, lacking in diversity. Bare ground for seedling establishment is absent. Stands are often dense and inhibit the movements of younger wildlife species such as game bird chicks.

After:
The application of this scenario improves wildlife habitat for species requiring early successional plant communities by reducing competition and creating bare ground for the establishment of early successional plants. Additionally, brood rearing habitat is improved both by the resultant food resources and the increased openness of the plant community that allows chicks to negotiate the terrain and exploit those food resources.


Scenario_Description:
A structure is provided to support the nesting and rearing of smaller targeted species, such as bees and birds, and is directly mounted to a tree, building or other structure. Addresses resource concern for wildlife of inadequate cover/shelter

Before:
The area lacks sufficient nesting habitat sites (natural cavities). A suitable location to mount the box is available.

After:
The installation of nesting and rearing boxes support the life-cycle needs of targeted species, such as birds, bats and pollinators. These structures/features enhance habitat, cover, and improve species survivability.


Scenario_Description:
Constructing a nest box and mounting on a pole. A structure is provided to support the nesting and rearing of targeted species, such as pollinators and birds. Trees, buildings or other structures are not available. These structures are designed to meet targeted species biology and life history needs. Addresses Resource Concern: Inadequate Cover/Shelter.

Before:
This area lacked sufficient nesting sites to support viable populations of targeted species. Location and conditions suggest that predator guards are not needed.

After:
The installation nesting and rearing boxes support the life-cycle needs of targeted species, such as blue birds and waterfowl. Location and conditions suggest that predator guards are not needed. These structures/features enhance habitat, cover, and improve species survivability.


Scenario_Description:
A structure is provided to support the nesting and rearing of larger targeted species such as waterfowl, bats and barn owls, and is directly mounted to a tree, building or other structure. These structures are designed to meet targeted species biology and life history needs. Addresses Resource Concern: Inadequate Cover/Shelter.

Before:
The area lacks sufficient overall habitat conditions to support viable populations of targeted species. A suitable location to mount the box is available. Predator guards not needed.

After:
The installation of nesting and rearing boxes support the life-cycle needs of targeted species, such as birds, bats and pollinators. Because of suitable location and conditions the nesting box can be directly mounted such as on a tree or building, thereby eliminating the need for mounting poles and predator guards. Species such as cavity dwelling birds and pollinators use this approach, but this treatment is not limited to those species. These structures/features enhance habitat, cover, and improve species survivability.


Scenario_Name:
Nesting Box or Raptor Perch, Large, with Pole

Scenario_Description:
Constructing a nest box or rapture perch on a steel pole with a predator guard where needed. A structure is provided to support the nesting and rearing of larger targeted species such as wood ducks, bats, barn owls or to provide needed perches or nesting structures for raptures. Addresses Resource Concern: Inadequate Cover/Shelter.

Before:
The area lacks sufficient overall nesting sites to support viable populations of targeted species. Predator guards provide needed protection of target species during nesting and rearing.

After:
The installation of pole mounted nesting and rearing boxes support the life-cycle needs of targeted species, such as bats and waterfowl.


Scenario_Description:
Retrofit an existing watering trough/tank with an appropriately designed and installed wildlife escape ramp to reduce wildlife mortality and maintain water quality within the watering facility.

Before:
Existing watering facilities lack escape potential for wildlife. This results in death of the small wildlife accessing the facility for water, and resulting poor water quality as the animal decays.

After:
Watering facilities provide wildlife safe access. Water quality is improved within the watering facility and wildlife mortality is reduced.


Scenario_Description:
Existing fences are retrofitted with vinyl markers that increase wire visibility and reduce mortality due to collision for wildlife species of concern. Markers are installed approximately every 3 feet along top wire. Scenario is typically implemented along fences in potential high risk areas (red areas in SGI Fence Collision Risk Model) or where a known problem exists.

Before:
Wire fences located in high risk areas pose a collision threat to wildlife of special concern.

After:
Fence related mortality of species of special concern is reduced.


Scenario_Description:
Small brush piles are created to provide shrubby/woody escape cover for wildlife. Pushing or cutting of select small trees and placement in selected locations to provide wildlife cover. Typical scenario of 10' x 20' area for structure covered by interlocking limbs of trees less than 12 inches in diameter.

Before:
The existing habitat lacks escape, ground nesting and safe loafing cover.

After:
Small brush piles provide needed escape, ground nesting and safe loafing cover for targeted wildlife species.


Scenario_Description:
Downed tree structures are created to provide shrubby/woody escape cover for wildlife. Existing sod will be killed prior to placement of tree structures. Felling of select trees and placement in selected locations to provide wildlife cover. Typical scenario of 30' x 50' area for structure covered by interlocking limbs of trees at least 12" in diameter.

After:
Large brush piles provide needed escape, ground nesting and safe loafing cover for targeted wildlife species.


Scenario_Description:
A structure is provided to improve wildlife habitat by providing a raptor perch. These structures are designed to meet targeted species biology and life history needs. Poles are typically 12 to 15 feet above the ground surface, and buried 3 ft or more.

Before:
These structures are targeted for areas that lack sufficient overall habitat conditions to support viable populations of targeted species. Insufficient perch locations are available.

After:
The installation of a raptor perch pole enhances the overall habitat needs of targeted species. These structures/features enhance habitat and improve species survivability.


Scenario_Description:
A structure is provided to improve wildlife habitat by providing a burrowing owl burrow. These structures are designed to meet targeted species biology and life history needs. Two nesting locations are provided per site. Each nesting site has two points of access. The two nest locations may also be connected.

Before:
These structures are targeted for areas that lack sufficient overall habitat conditions to support viable populations of targeted species. Insufficient natural burrow locations are available.

After:
The installation of a burrowing owl burrow enhances the overall habitat needs of targeted species. These structures/features enhance habitat and improve species survivability.


Scenario_Description:
A structure is provided to improve aquatic habitat by providing alternative cover when natural cover is not readily available. These structures are designed to enhance habitat by simulating an overhanging/undercut bank. The resulting cavity provides cover and temperature attenuation to support aquatic organism biology and life history needs. A structure made of wood is placed at the toe of a slope on a rock base. The structure is then weighted with rock and covered.

Before:
These structures are targeted for areas that lack sufficient cover and overall habitat conditions to support the life cycle needs of numerous aquatic organisms.

After:
The installation of lunkers, typically in groups of three, provide improved cover. These structures improve species survivability by providing cover and temperature attenuation. Typical installation is a group of three lunkers that are typically 8 ft long and 2 ft wide. Structures are typically located downstream of the apex of a bend to promote flow through the structure and minimize deposition of sediments.


Scenario_Description:
A brush pile or rock pile provides improved wildlife habitat by providing resting and escape cover. These structures are located and constructed to meet targeted species biology and life history needs. While size varies, brush piles are typically 10 ft in diameter and 6 ft high at the center. Multiples brush piles are better than one larger pile, and two to four piles per acre of area adjacent to woodlands is desirable. Piles are typically 200 to 300 ft apart. Stumps, logs, rocks and pipes are typically placed at the bottom with limbs and leaves placed on top, thereby allowing easy access to the bottom of the pile. These piles can provide nesting habitat, resting areas, concealment, and protection from some predators for birds, rabbits, and other small mammals. Rock piles provide shelter and basking areas for amphibians and reptiles such as frogs, lizards, salamanders and snakes. Large rocks are typically placed at the bottom. Often depressions are dug in the ground surface and covered with flat rocks to create temporary pools for breeding frogs and salamanders. Rocks absorb heat in the day and radiate heat at night. Materials for brush and rock piles are collected locally.

Before:
These structures are targeted for areas that lack sufficient overall habitat conditions to support viable populations of targeted species. Insufficient ground cover is available for resting, basking, and escape cover. Existing brushy cover is lacking or not well distributed.

After:
The installation of a brush piles and rock piles enhances the overall habitat needs of numerous terrestrial species. These structures/features enhance habitat and improve species survivability. By providing resting, basking, and escape cover, larger open spaces are more effectively used by ground nesting birds, amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. Increased cover reduces predation.


Scenario_Description:
This practice involves constructing, maintaining, and monitoring loafing structures to provide nesting/loafing cover for waterbirds, reptiles, and amphibians. This practice applies to croplands grown to rice or other flooded cropland capable of water level management. A habitat appraisal guide has identified that nesting/loafing cover is a limiting factor for shorebirds, waterbirds, waterfowl, or other wetland wildlife and where natural recovery of that habitat element is either unlikely or will take many years to naturally develop. Each island will be a minimum of 800 sqft above the waterline with slopes of between 8:1 and 10:1 with a one foot freeboard. There will be one created island per 10 acres with a minimum of three islands per project. Vegetated areas can be used for breeding waterfowl; encourage non-vegetated areas for breeding shorebirds. Resource Concern: Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife.

Before:
This practice applies to croplands grown to rice or other crops capable of being managed for shallow water management objectives, where a habitat appraisal guide has identified that nesting/loafing cover is a limiting factor for shorebirds, waterbirds, waterfowl, or other wetland wildlife and where natural recovery of that habitat element is either unlikely or will take many years to naturally develop.

After:
3 islands constructed to a minimum of 800 sqft above the waterline with slopes of between 8:1 and 10:1 with a one foot freeboard. There will be one created island per 10 acres. Three island minimum per project. Creating islands provides suitable nesting/ loafing areas within the flooded agricultural fields and offsets the lack of protected uplands for nesting or loafing shorebirds, waterfowl, reptiles, and amphibians.


Scenario_Description:
Create snags from existing live trees to provide nesting, foraging, perching, thermal cover, and display habitat for target species such as cavity nesting birds (woodpeckers, songbirds, wood duck, etc.), small mammals (shrew, chipmunk, flying squirrel, bats, etc.), amphibians and reptiles and bumble bees. Trees must be at least 12” DBH. Resulting snag will be a minimum of 25’ tall. Snag creation methods may include girdling, chemical injection, or high topping.

Before:
These structures are targeted for areas that lack sufficient snag habitat conditions to support viable populations of targeted species. Insufficient cavity nests, foraging, and perching habitat exists on the planning unit. Existing snag habitat is lacking or not well distributed.

After:
Snag creation enhances the overall habitat condition for numerous terrestrial species. These structures/features enhance habitat and improve species survivability. By providing cavity nesting sites, invertebrate foraging area, perching/hunting opportunities, and thermal cover/escape cover, larger open spaces are more effectively used by cavity nesting birds and pollinators, amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. Increased cover reduces predation.


Scenario_Description:
Large log is placed on the upland or riparian forest floor to provide cover, denning, thermal regulation, and/or forage sites for wildlife species such as small mammals, amphibians, and game birds. Large wood is defined as a minimum log diameter of 12" and 20 ft long length. Forest terrain is moderate with existing forest road infrastructure. Log sections are cut on site or hauled. Installation of downed logs deemed necessary following a Wildlife Habitat Evaluation score below planning criteria level. Primary Resource concern is Inadequate Habitat for Fish or Wildlife-habitat degradation. This practice may be installed alone or in combination with facilitating practices. Facilitating practices may include but not limited to: 382, 391,612, 660 and 666.

Before:
A habitat assessment (using State Office approved habitat assessment method, protocol or tool) has indicated a need for increased structural complexity in the forest understory to bring one or more habitat limiting factors under Inadequate Habitat for Fish or Wildlife, up to planning criteria. Upland habitat limiting factors include quality, quantity and continuity of forage, cover, shelter, space and water availability. The structures can be installed within a quarter mile of a drivable road and terrain is gentle to moderate.

After:
Installation of downed large wood brings the identified deficient habitat limiting factors up to planning criteria. The practice is installed using general labor with minimal supervision or skilled labor without supervision with use of common hand tools and small equipment;


Scenario_Description:
Closing off the top of an open vertical pipe that poses a hazard to wildlife, such as fence posts or miscellaneous irrigation structures. Typically, fences or irrigation structures have multiple open vertical pipes that require caps, for example, if fence braces are constructed from pipes, 2 or 3 caps would be needed for each fence brace (one per post).

Before:
Open topped pipes create a hazard for small wildlife that get trapped inside.

After:
Open topped pipes are capped to prevent wildlife hazards.


Scenario_Description:
Posts set in a row across the stream channel, typically in smaller streams where habitat restoration, decreased stream velocities, or aggradation of the channel bed is desired. Post spacing is about 2', intended to catch debris and serve as an anchor point for beaver to construct a dam.

Before:
Stream channel is degrading and/or stream banks are eroding causing habitat degradation (both aquatic and riparian).

After:
Installation of the structure causes beaver to continue to build a dam in the location, decreasing stream velocities and expanding the riparian area.


Scenario_Description:
Reduce competition from sod around trees/shrubs within a windbreak/shelterbelt. Apply appropriate herbicide to stress or kill competing sod vegetation between and/or within tree/shrub row. A herbicide application is completed to significantly reduce competition from sod (grass) in the windbreak.

Before:
1000 feet of livestock shelterbelt, 4 row mix of deciduous and conifer trees/shrubs deteriorating due to being sod bound. Resource concerns: Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health; Livestock Production-Inadequate livestock shelter..

After:
Integrity of windbreak restored. Domestic animal protection restored.


Scenario_Description:
Windbreak is thinned by hand w/chainsaw and cut stumps have herbicide applied to prevent undesirable sprouting.

Before:
Windbreak functionality has decreased. Windbreak tree and/or shrub species are overly dense and do not provide the desired wind protection. Resource concern is Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health.

After:
Integrity of windbreak restored, function and health improved.


Scenario_Description:
Windbreak is pruned by hand (hand tools + chainsaw) to improve shape and form of trees and/or shrubs so that the overall effectiveness of the windbreak will improve. Slash is treated to prevent potential insect, disease, fire and operability problems.

Before:
The windbreak tree and or shrub species have become to 'leggy' (grown to tall) or are growing beyond the bounds of the designated windbreak area. Overall density of windbreak is lower than desired optimum. Resource concern is Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health; Livestock Production-Inadequate livestock shelter.

After:
Integrity of windbreak restored; impacts of wind reduced. 1,000 feet of windbreaks or shelterbelts


Scenario_Description:
Windbreak renovation requires the removal of degraded or inappropriate trees or shrubs within a windbreak. This may include removal of entire rows, including stumps or roots, or selected trees/shrubs in order to prepare for the necessary planting of a replacement row within the windbreak, improve the health of the remaining rows, and/or allow for supplemental planting to expand the windbreak. Resource concerns: Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health; Livestock Production-Inadequate livestock shelter, Soil erosion-wind.

Before:
Plant (trees and/or shrubs) health has degraded decreasing the effectiveness of the original windbreak design. Plants lack leaf cover, have dead branches, gaps of no live green material and some are completely dead. Wind now moves freely thru areas that lack any leaves.

After:
Integrity and function of windbreak restored. 1,000 feet of windbreak/shelterbelt renovated.


Scenario_Description:
Windbreak renovation requires the removal of degraded or inappropriate trees or shrubs within a windbreak. This may include removal of entire rows, including stumps or roots, or selected trees/shrubs in order to prepare for the necessary planting of a replacement row within the windbreak, improve the health of the remaining rows, and/or allow for supplemental planting to expand the windbreak. Resource concerns include Degraded plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health; Livestock Production-Inadequate livestock shelter, Soil erosion-wind.

Before:
Reduce wind impacts by renovating 1,000 foot windbreaks or shelterbelts using heavy equipment to remove selected trees with average DBH < 8 Inches. Typically trees and shrubs are cleared by a Skidsteer using a tree sheer or saw. All slash material from cutting and pruning is either scattered and crushed, piled and crushed, chipped or removed from the treatment area.

After:
Integrity and function of windbreak restored.


Before:
Reduce wind impacts by renovating 1,000 foot windbreaks or shelterbelts using heavy equipment to remove selected trees with average DBH > 8 inches. Typically trees and shrubs are cleared by dozer (D-6 or equivalent) using a brush rake or blade. All slash material from cutting and pruning is either scattered and crushed, piled and crushed, chipped or removed from the treatment area.


Scenario_Description:
Parts of the windbreak being renovated have died. Supplemental plantings of containerized trees/shrubs will improve the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. Resource concerns include Soil erosion - Wind erosion, Degraded plant condition -Inadequate structure and composition, and Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock shelter.

Before:
Dead trees/shrubs are inhibiting windbreak effectiveness. A one (1.0) acre windbreak/shelterbelt is expanded through the planting of containerized tree and shrub seedlings at a average spacing of 8' (shrubs 4'-6', deciduous/conifer trees 8'-12') within row and 15'-20' between rows. Planting is achieved through hand planting.

After:
The integrity and function of the windbreak is restored.


Scenario_Description:
Parts of the windbreak being renovated have died. Supplemental plantings of bare root trees/shrubs will improve the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. Resource concerns include Soil erosion - Wind erosion, Degraded plant condition - Inadequate structure and composition, and Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock shelter.

Before:
Dead trees/shrubs are inhibiting windbreak effectiveness. A one (1.0) acre windbreak/shelterbelt is expanded through the planting of bare root tree and shrub seedlings at a average spacing of 8' (shrubs 4'-6', deciduous/conifer trees 8'-12') within row and 15'-20' between rows. Planting is achieved through hand planting.


Scenario_Description:
Coppicing of selected trees and understory vegetation in a windbreak/shelterbelt is needed to ensure that species composition and stand structure continue to serve their intended purpose. Resource concern is Degraded plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health.

Before:
One acre of windbreak/shelterbelt renovation carried out through manipulating species composition, stand structure, and stocking by the cutting of selected trees and understory vegetation for coppicing and by removing or disposing of slash so as to not interfere with the intended purpose. This manipulation does not include pruning.


Practice:
654 - Road/Trail/Landing Closure and Treatment

Scenario_Name:
Road/Trail removal and restoration (Vegetative)

Scenario_Description:
Minimal re-shaping to natural conditions using light equipment and the establishment of permanent vegetation. This scenario includes using smaller equipment (ag tractor/skidsteer/small dozer/backhoe/) for the installation of water control devices such as water bars and rolling dips, controlling access, and pulling drainages on 500 feet of 12' wide road on 5%-35% hill slopes and little grade. The site is re-vegetated to permanent improved grass and temporarily protected with a thin layer of hay mulch. Soil amendments are applied as per the FOTG guidance. This practice addresses one or more resource concerns: Excessive sediment in surface waters, Wildlife habitat degradation, and Concentrated flow erosion. Since not all segments of the road/trail system may require this level of treatment, this scenario applies only to those segments that are causing the resource concerns.

Before:
Legacy trail/road is not necessary and is affecting wetlands, riparian areas, water quality, and possibly T&E species. The trail/road can no longer serve it's intended use and is incapable of handling needed equipment and traffic. Alternative access was possible. Therefore abandonment and site restoration are the best approaches to address the resource concerns and problems that are being created.

After:
The re-vegetated, eliminated road addressed the resource concern.


Scenario_Description:
Reshaping a 12' wide trail to natural conditions. This scenario includes using light equipment such as a backhoe for the installation of water control devices such as water bars, rolling dips, controlling access, use of woody residue and pulling drainages on 500 feet of road on 35% hill slopes and a moderate grade. Cool season Native vegetation grasses are is re-established by seeding. Some light hand work may be needed to clear site for the equipment. The work will be supervised by a consultant forester, land manager, or other resource professional. This practice addresses one or more resource concerns: Excessive sediment in surface waters, Habitat degradation, and Concentrated flow erosion. Since not all segments of the road/trail system may require this level of treatment, this scenario applies only to those segments that are causing the resource concerns.

Before:
The legacy trail/roads are severely affecting wetland/riparian areas, slope stability, and water quality. The trail/roads can no longer serve it's intended use and is incapable of handling needed equipment and traffic. Alternative access is possible. Therefore abandonment and rehabilitation is the best way to address the resource concerns and problems that are being created.

After:
The resource concerns are addressed by the abandonment of the road and its drainage elements, and by re-seeding to native grasses.


Scenario_Name:
Road/Trail/Landing Closure and Treatment, <35% hillslope

Scenario_Description:
The practice includes permanent road/trail/landing closure, treatment, or removal and to hydrologically reconnect the hillslope to applicable drainage networks. The treatment will prohibit future access. The typical scenario includes decommissioning a 500 ft of an 18-foot wide trail/road with a landing on 30% forest slopes, using heavy equipment such as a bulldozer or similar equipment (excavator or road grader with ripper) to re-shape and obliterate the road base and landings in order to re-establish native cool season vegetation. It also includes restoring hydrology with the removal of culverts and drainage fills. Necessary erosion control measures such as water bars are installed. Some hand-work may be necessary to clear the site for the equipment. The work will be supervised by a consultant forester, land manager, or other resource professional. Tree/Shrub Site Prep is not included, however, Tree/Shrub Planting is recommended. When completed, there is no additional maintenance with heavy equipment needed. This practice addresses one or more resource concerns: Excessive sediment in surface waters and Concentrated flow erosion. Since not all segments of the road/trail system may require this level of treatment, this scenario applies only to those segments that are causing the resource concerns.

Before:
The legacy trail/road is severely affecting wetlands, riparian areas, slope stability, water quality and possibly T&E species. The trail/road can no longer serve it's intended use and is incapable of handling needed equipment and traffic. Alternative access is possible. Therefore abandonment and site restoration are the best approaches to address the resource concerns and problems that are being created.


Scenario_Name:
Road/Trail/Landing Closure and Treatment, >35% hillslope

Scenario_Description:
The practice includes permanent road/trail/landing closure and treatment, and the hydrologically reconnection of the hillslope to applicable drainage networks. The treatment will limit future access. The typical scenario includes decommissioning a 24-foot wide, earthen road with landings on forest slopes over 35%, using a bulldozer or other heavy equipment such as an excavator or road grader with ripper to re-shape and obliterate the road base and landings in order to re-establish native vegetation. It also includes restoring hydrology with the removal of culverts and drainage fills. Necessary erosion control measures such as water bars are installed. The steep slopes makes this scenario costly due to the increased time needed to apply the measures and the need for additional water control devices. Some hand-work may be necessary to clear the site for the equipment. The work will be supervised by a consultant forester, land manager, or other resource professional. Tree/Shrub Site Prep is not included. However, Tree/Shrub Planting is recommended. When completed, there is no additional maintenance with heavy equipment needed. This practice addresses one or more resource concerns: Excessive sediment in surface waters and Concentrated flow erosion. Since not all segments of the road/trail system may require this level of treatment, this scenario applies only to those segments that are causing the resource concerns.

Before:
The legacy trail/road is severely affecting wetlands, riparian areas, unstable slopes, water quality, and possibly T&E species. The trail/road can no longer serve it's intended use and is incapable of handling needed equipment and traffic. Alternative access was possible. Therefore abandonment and site restoration are the best approaches to address the resource concerns and problems that are being created.


Scenario_Description:
This practice scenario includes the basic earthwork and native and/or organic wetland vegetation needed to create a constructed wetland to treat contaminated agricultural runoff for a small site (i.e. <0.1 ac). All other components, such as water control structures, dikes or upstream sediment basins, must be paid for under facilitating practices. Soil, water and tissue sampling are required. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excess nutrient and pathogens. Associated practices: Structure for Water Control (587); Sediment Basin (350); Dike (356); Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D); Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A); Fence (382); Grade Stabilization Structure (410); Pumping Plant (533); Waste Transfer (634)

Before:
Contaminated agricultural runoff causes excess ponding and/or water quality degradation.

After:
A 2000 sq foot constructed wetland (i.e. 20' x 100') will be constructed with an average 18" depth. Only the earthwork and wetland vegetation are considered in this scenario. Any structures or sediment basins will be designed under a separate practice. The constructed wetland treats the effluent by reducing excess nutrients and adding oxygen through wetland plants and functions before the effluent is transported to a waste storage facility or discharged off site, if permitted by regulation.


Scenario_Description:
This practice scenario includes the basic earthwork and native and/or organic wetland vegetation needed to create a constructed wetland to treat contaminated agricultural runoff for a medium site (i.e. 0.1 - 0.5 ac). All other components, such as water control structures, dikes or upstream sediment basins, must be paid for under facilitating practices. Soil, water and tissue sampling are required. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excess nutrient and pathogens. Associated practices: Structure for Water Control (587); Sediment Basin (350); Dike (356); Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D); Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A); Fence (382); Grade Stabilization Structure (410); Pumping Plant (533); Waste Transfer (634)

After:
A 0.25 acre constructed wetland (i.e. 45' x 240') will be constructed with an average 18" depth. Only the earthwork and wetland vegetation are considered in this scenario. Any structures or sediment basins will be designed under a separate practice. The constructed wetland is sited near the property boundary, but still takes cropland out of production (1/2 wetland acreage). The constructed wetland treats the effluent by reducing excess nutrients and adding oxygen through wetland plants and functions before the effluent is transported to a waste storage facility or discharged off site, if permitted by regulation.


Scenario_Description:
This practice scenario includes the basic earthwork and native and/or organic wetland vegetation needed to create a constructed wetland to treat contaminated agricultural runoff for a large site (i.e. >0.5 ac). All other components, such as water control structures, dikes or upstream sediment basins, must be paid for under facilitating practices. Soil, water and tissue sampling are required. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excess nutrient and pathogens. Associated practices: Structure for Water Control (587); Sediment Basin (350); Dike (356); Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D); Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A); Fence (382); Grade Stabilization Structure (410); Pumping Plant (533); Waste Transfer (634)

After:
A 1 acre constructed wetland (i.e. 95' x 460') will be constructed with an average 18" depth. Only the earthwork and wetland vegetation are considered in this scenario. Any structures or sediment basins will be designed under a separate practice. The constructed wetland is sited near the property boundary, but still takes cropland out of production (1/2 wetland acreage). The constructed wetland treats the effluent by reducing excess nutrients and adding oxygen through wetland plants and functions before the effluent is transported to a waste storage facility or discharged off site, if permitted by regulation.


Scenario_Description:
A Mineral Flat wetland is to be restored. The tract size is 160 Acres consists of surface saturated soils interspersed with shallow depressions that are not depressional class HGM wetlands. The wetland size is also 160 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before:
The site has been drained with a tile drain system. A suitable seed bank exists for natural regeneration to re-establish hydrophytic vegetation. The site is in agricultural production.

After:
The drain tiles have been rendered non-functional by excavating 50 foot lengths of tile mains and laterals in 24 separate locations, and backfilling with excavated earth, which is compacted with the excavator bucket. There are no facilitating practices. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns.


Scenario_Name:
Riverine Levee Removal and Floodplain Features

Scenario_Description:
A Riverine HGM tract on a large floodplain is to be restored. It has been converted to agricultural production by surface ditching and clearing of woody vegetation. The size of the tract is 100 acres. The wetland extent is 60 acres, and 40 acres are adjacent non-wetland. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before:
A levee prevents floodwater from entering the tract. The original cover was forest. The site is drained by surface ditches which collect surface water and direct it to the river through a flap gate structure. The site has been completely cleared, and no suitable adjacent seedwall exists for natural regeneration of forest species. The lateral connectivity between the channel and floodplain has been altered by construction of levees along the reach.

After:
The hydrology of the site is restored with the installation of ditch plugs, and the excavation of macrotopographic features with an average depth of 6" over 30% of the wetland area. Excavated spoil is placed adjacent to the features on the wetland and adjacent non-wetland area with a maximum depth of 24 inches. The levee has been breached at the upstream and downstream ends of the tract reach, restoring dynamic stream flooding. The breach length is 150 feet long at both locations. Both the wetland and non-wetland areas are planted with a Bottomland Hardwood species mix. The levee breaches are armored with rock riprap. Facilitating practices include Grade Stabilization Structure and Tree and Shrub Planting. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns.


Scenario_Name:
Depression Sediment Removal and Ditch Plug

Scenario_Description:
A Depressional HGM class wetland is to be restored. The tract size is 15 acres, and the actual wetland size is 10 acres. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from surface runoff. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before:
The wetland has been converted to agricultural production, and the tract drained with a surface ditch. The ditch is 4' average depth, and 12 feet average width. The wetland receives surface runoff from an adjacent upland watershed, and ponds water on a shallow perched layer. The watershed has been converted from native to agricultural landuse, and the resultant soil erosion has deposited 6" of sediment in the bottom of the depression.

After:
The ditch has been plugged by the installation of a 50' long section of compacted clay fill, and the deposition has been removed down to the original topsoil layer. A herbaceous plant community has been seeded. Facilitative practices include Conservation Cover. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns.


Scenario_Description:
An Estuarine Fringe HGM landscape is to be restored. The wetland is subject to tidally induced water level fluctuations. The tract size is 120 acres, and the wetland area is 100 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before:
The wetland has been converted to agricultural production by construction of a dike to prevent tidal flows. The dike has a culvert with a flapgate to allow surface water to flow out, but prevents tide water from entering. The dike is 7 feet high above the current marsh surface. The dike has side slopes of 3:1, with a 12 foot top. A suitable seedbank exists for natural regeneration of the original plant community. The soils are organic, and loss of hydrology has caused the land surface to subside 3 feet due to aerobic decomposition of organic matter (mineralization).

After:
The dike has been breached in 4 locations, corresponding to the number of original inlet channels. The breach locations have 8 foot long steel sheet pile Structures for Water Control installed to prevent tidal surges from causing serious erosion on the subsided land surface. The original flap gate culvert has been removed. The dike is 4 feet higher than the weir crests, so the excavations are 4 feet by 8 feet long, with 3:1 side slopes. The culvert has been removed and salvaged by the landowner. Facilitating practices are Structure for Water Control. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns.


Scenario_Name:
Riverine Channel and Floodplain Restoration

Scenario_Description:
A Riverine HGM landscape on a small stream on a low stream order riparian landscape has been converted to agricultural production. The stream channel has degraded. The reach is 1500 feet in length, and the tract size is 15 acres. The wetland area is 10 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before:
Channel incision has broken the lateral connectivity between the stream and floodplain. The conversion to cropland was accompanied by filling and leveling of backswamp, side channel, and oxbow features which formerly ponded water or exposed the floodplain groundwater table. The site no longer has access to floodwater or water surface profile supported groundwater. No suitable seed bank exists for natural regeneration of the original hydrophytic plant community, either in the channel, or on the floodplain.

After:
The hydrology of the site is restored by the installation of a series of rock check structures to raise the stream water surface profile. Floodplain macrotopographic features replicating the original side channels, oxbows, and backswamps are constructed by excavation. Spoil is placed adjacent to the excavations to replicate natural depositional features. The average depth of the excavated features is 2 feet, and the surface area of the excavations is 25% of the tract size. The eroding stream bank is stabilized with soil bio-engineering features, and fish habitat improvement measures are installed in the channel. The tract is seeded to appropriate hydrophytic and upland vegetation, both woody and herbaceous. Facilitating practices are Streambank and Shoreline protection, Structure for Water Control, Conservation Cover, Tree/Shrub Establishment, and Stream Habitat Improvement and Management. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns.


Scenario_Description:
A wetland is created on a flat mineral upland at a location where surface runoff may be intercepted and ponded by excavation. Resource concerns are 22 - INDEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before:
The site is in cropland on an upland, non floodplain site (interfluve).

After:
An excavation with an average depth of 12" has created a shallow depression in a broad swale which intercepts surface runoff. The excavated material has been spread on adjacent areas. The INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE resource concern has been addressed with the provision of seasonal open water for terrestrial, aquatic, and waterfowl species.


Scenario_Description:
A Mineral Flat wetland is to be enhanced. The tract size is 160 Acres consists of surface saturated soils interspersed with shallow depressions that are not depressional class HGM wetlands. The wetland size is also 160 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

After:
The drain tiles have been rendered non-functional by excavating 50 foot lengths of tile mains and laterals in 24 separate locations, and backfilling with excavated earth, which is compacted with the excavator bucket. There are no facilitating practices. Enhancement of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns.


Scenario_Description:
A Riverine HGM tract on a large floodplain is to be enhanced. It has been converted to agricultural production by surface ditching and clearing of woody vegetation. The size of the tract is 100 acres. The wetland extent is 60 acres, and 40 acres are adjacent non-wetland. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

After:
The hydrology of the site is enhanced with the installation of ditch plugs, and the excavation of macrotopographic features with an average depth of 6" over 30% of the wetland area. Excavated spoil is placed adjacent to the features on the wetland and adjacent non-wetland area with a maximum depth of 24 inches. The levee has been breached at the upstream and downstream ends of the tract reach, restoring dynamic stream flooding. The breach length is 150 feet long at both locations. Both the wetland and non-wetland areas are planted with a Bottomland Hardwood species mix. The levee breaches are armored with rock riprap. Facilitating practices include Grade Stabilization Structure and Tree and Shrub Planting. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns.


Scenario_Description:
A Depressional HGM class wetland is to be enhanced. The tract size is 15 acres, and the actual wetland size is 10 acres. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from surface runoff. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.


Scenario_Description:
An Estuarine Fringe HGM landscape is to be enhanced. The wetland is subject to tidally induced water level fluctuations. The tract size is 120 acres, and the wetland area is 100 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.


Scenario_Description:
Pruning trees of branches in a forest stand where wildfires are considered a high and very high hazard. Hand tools and power tools are used to cut branches from trees. Resource concerns include Degraded plant condition-wildfire hazard and Undesirable plant productivity and health.

Before:
The forest stand is well to over-stocked, generally with 200 to 300+ trees per acre. Branches are touching understory vegetation or are in close proximity to forest floor where a ground fire can ignite the lower branches and move into the upper canopy. Wildfire hazard is very high.

After:
The typical forest pruning treatment is 20 acres. Trees are pruned to the desirable height (generally 8-10') based on desired separation space between ground vegetation and tree crown. Pruned branches are treated if they are a hazard, see Woody Residue Treatment standard.


Scenario_Description:
Pruning is done by hand with chain saws, tree loppers, hand shears, or hand saws. Trees are identified for pruning. To improve the quality of the stem wood, branches are pruned from the trees. Trees are growing at a fast pace, with leader growth on trees anywhere from 1.5 feet to 4 feet in length.

Before:
Trees are retaining lower limbs along the entire tree bole, reducing wood quality. Pruning height will be based on overall stand diameter and height. Stand has been thinned and crop trees are identified for pruning. Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health is the resource concern.

After:
The typical forest pruning treatment is 20 acres. Trees are pruned to the desirable height of 8-10 feet. Pruned branches are treated if they are a hazard, see Woody Residue Treatment standard.


Scenario_Description:
Pruning is done by hand with pole saws or with gas pole saw. Crop trees are identified for pruning. The forest is on highly productive soils. Trees are growing at a fast pace, with leader growth on trees anywhere from 1.5 feet to 4 feet in length. To improve the quality of the stem wood, branches are pruned from the trees.

Before:
Trees are retaining limbs mostly along the mid to upper section of the tree bole, reducing quality. Lower branches (0-8 feet) may have already been pruned, have naturally self pruned to differing heights. Pruning height is at least to eighteen (18) feet above the ground. Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health is the resource concern.

After:
The typical forest pruning treatment is 20 acres. Trees are pruned to the height of 18 feet or more. Pruned branches are treated so they do not become a fire or health hazard.


Scenario_Description:
Pruning of hard/soft mast trees and shrubs to stimulate increased fruit/nut production for wildlife food. Primarily done around old agricultural fields, in old orchards, in forested areas. Is usually done with a chainsaw or handsaw to open the canopy and remove dead branches to increase airflow and sunlight penetration. Resource concerns are inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife - habitat degradation and plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health

Before:
Trees have reduced mast production due to tree reaching maturity or heavy shade. Pruning is needed to remove older branches, dead material and increase sunlight into the canopy. New branching will be stimulated, increasing mast production.

After:
Selected trees (10 per acre) are re-invigorated with new branching and an increase in mast production.


Scenario_Description:
Pruning trees and/or shrubs is accomplished to extend the life span of trees and or shrubs. Pruning reduces the time periods of replacement by 2/3rds, exposing less bare soil. Pruning is accomplished by hand with hand tools and/or chainsaw. Trees and or shrubs are growing where the average rainfall is very high, with cooler temperatures and deep steep soils. Resource concerns are degraded plant condition-undesirable plant productivity and health, soil erosion-sheet and rill.

Before:
Trees and/or shrubs are showing signs of reduced health (thinning crowns/less branching) and fruit production. Loss of trees or shrubs will occur within a few years. Severe soil erosion and sedimentation is a great concern if trees or shrubs are removed.

After:
Tree/shrub pruning is completed on trees and/or shrubs. Cut vegetative material is left on the ground providing cover, and increasing organic matter. Alternative row pruning, treating every other row (or one-half the plants), in the same field, is completed 2 times. Renovation pruning is conducted one time for the entire field.


Scenario_Description:
Overstory tree crowns are pruned to increase sunlight to understory shrubs and low growing trees that have been purposely established to grow on the same acre of ground. Resource concern is degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health.

Before:
The overstory trees are expanding their crowns, providing to much shade on the understory plants. The shade is affecting the growth and production of the understory plants. Pruning of branches, leaves, frawns, etc. are needed to maintain the desired amount of sunlight reaching the understory.

After:
Pruning of the overstory tree crowns is completed, allowing the proper amount of sunlight to reach the understory vegetation, maintaining their growth, health and vigor, and wildlife benefits.


Scenario_Name:
Intermediate Silvicultural Rx Using Mastication Equipment on all slopes

Scenario_Description:
Adjusting the density, species composition, and spatial arrangement with intermediate silvicultural techniques to achieve the desired condition in a stand of trees. The operation is supervised by a certified forest planner and/or certified TSP forester. This action and is carried out using light to medium mastication equipment, that is suited to the site and job . Resource concerns include Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition.

Before:
The density, species composition, and spatial arrangement of trees in a stand are close to achieving the silvicultural specifications, but still require management to achieve desired conditions. The stand in this scenario still exhibit an increased susceptibility to insects and disease, an unacceptable uncharacteristic wildfire risk and/or hazard, and degraded understory plant and wildlife conditions.

After:
After adjusting the density, species composition, and spatial arrangement to an acceptable level, stand, and overall quality is improved. As a intermediate silvicultural action, the work is not intensive in nature, but meant to quickly and readily improve conditions related to the identified resource concern. Mastication in these stands will not create conditions that artificially inflate the risk of carrying a fire, or degrading understory plant productivity and wildlife habitat.


Scenario_Name:
Intermediate Silvicultural Rx by Handwork and Light Mechanical Equipment on all slopes

Scenario_Description:
Adjusting the density, species composition, and spatial arrangement with intermediate silvicultural techniques such as single tree, crop tree, and other light thinning operations to achieve the desired condition in a forested stand. The operation is supervised by a certified forest planner and/or certified TSP forester. This silvicultural prescription is carried out using hand tools such as chainsaws, and light equipment like sheers and grapple on a skidsteer, all of which are suited to the site and job . Resource concerns include, Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition, and degraded wildlife habitat.

Before:
The density, species composition, and spatial arrangement of trees in a stand are close to achieving the silvicultural specifications, but still require management to achieve desired conditions. The stand in this scenario still exhibit an increased susceptibility to insects and disease, an unacceptable uncharacteristic wildfire risk and/or hazard, and degraded understory plant and wildlife conditions. Given handwork is done a small scales and usually inoperable sites for ground based logging systems

After:
After adjusting the density, species composition, and spatial arrangement to an acceptable level, stand, and overall quality is improved. As a intermediate silvicultural action, the work is not intensive in nature, but meant to quickly and readily improve conditions related to the identified resource concern. and to achieve desired condition.


Scenario_Name:
Intermediate Silvicultural Rx Silvicultural Rx Using Ground Based Logging/Heavy Equipment on all slopes

Scenario_Description:
Minimally adjusting the density, species composition, and spatial arrangement with minor silvicultural intensity to achieve the desired condition in a stand of trees. The operation is supervised by a certified forest planner and/or certified TSP forester. This action and is carried out using light or heavy mastication equipment, that is suited to the site and job . Resource concerns include Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition. Ground based logging will be used for larger projects, i.e. 50 acres+, where economies of scale will be able to drive costs down from current per acre estimates, and encourage larger treatment areas and effective acres

Before:
The density, species composition, and spatial arrangement of trees in a stand are close to achieving the silvicultural specifications, but still require management to achieve desired conditions. The stand in this scenario still exhibit an increased susceptibility to insects and disease, an unacceptable uncharacteristic wildfire risk and/or hazard, and degraded understory plant and wildlife conditions..


Scenario_Name:
Even-aged Silvicultural Rx Using Mastication Equipment on All Slopes

Scenario_Description:
Utilizing heavy mastication equipment to achieve even-aged silvicultural practices such as shelterwood, seed tree, and clear-cuts, with and without reserves are employed to appropriately address resource concerns including, Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition.

Before:
Large acreages of uniform stand structure, or where undesirable forest structure (species, age, size) that is susceptible to disease and fire. To qualify for mastication with even-aged silvicultural desired conditions, the site cannot have high basal areas, and stems per acre, as this will result in heavy surface fuels and obstructions that negate a resource benefit to the identified resource concerns.

After:
Create conditions that support regeneration of desired species and densities, with spatial patterns that provide benefits to reduced fire behavior, and early successional wildlife habitat, and understory plant communities. Mastication in these stands will not create conditions that artificially inflate the risk of carrying a fire or change other fire behavior characteristics, or degrading understory plant productivity and wildlife habitat.


Scenario_Name:
Even-aged Hand and Light Mechanized Equipment on Slopes Less than 25%

Scenario_Description:
Utilizing hand tools and light mechanized equipment on easily operable ground, to achieve even-aged silvicultural practices such as shelterwood, seed tree, and clear-cuts, with and without reserves are employed to address resource concerns including Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition. Will only be used in select situations where larger equipment cannot operate due to primarily access issues.

Before:
Large acreages of uniform stand structure (species, age, size) that is susceptible to disease and fire.

After:
Create conditions that support regeneration of desired species and densities, with spatial patterns that provide benefits to reduced fire behavior, and early successional wildlife habitat, and understory plant communities.


Scenario_Name:
Even-aged Hand and Light Mechanized Equipment on Slopes Greater than 25%

Scenario_Description:
Utilizing hand tools and light mechanized equipment on steeper ground, to achieve even-aged silvicultural practices such as shelterwood, seed tree, and clear-cuts, with and without reserves are employed to address resource concerns including Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition. Will only be used in select situations where larger equipment cannot operate due to primarily access issues.


Scenario_Name:
Even-aged Outcomes Using Ground Based Logging on Slopes Less Than 25%

Scenario_Description:
Utilizing ground based mechanized logging equipment on easily operable ground, to achieve even-aged silvicultural practices such as shelterwood, seed tree, and clear-cuts, with and without reserves are employed to address resource concerns including Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition.


Scenario_Name:
Even-aged Outcomes Using Ground Based Logging on Slopes Greater Than 25%

Scenario_Description:
Utilizing ground based mechanized logging equipment on steeper ground, to achieve even-aged silvicultural practices such as shelterwood, seed tree, and clear-cuts, with and without reserves are employed to address resource concerns including Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition.


Scenario_Name:
Uneven-aged Silvicultural Rx Using Mastication Equipment on All Slopes

Scenario_Description:
Mastication will be used to achieve uneven-aged stand structure on all operable ground, where resource concerns including Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition. Will only be used in select situations where site productivity does not warrant utilization, and will not negatively impact goals associated with understory plant productivity and wildfire hazard.

Before:
The density, species composition, and spatial arrangement of trees in a stand are close to achieving the silvicultural specifications, but still require management to achieve desired conditions. The stand in this scenario still exhibit an increased susceptibility to insects and disease, an unacceptable uncharacteristic wildfire risk and/or hazard, and degraded understory plant and wildlife conditions. Large acreages of uniform stand structure, or where undesirable forest structure (species, age, size) that is susceptible to disease and fire. To qualify for mastication with Uneven-aged silvicultural desired conditions, the site cannot have high basal areas, and stems per acre that would be redistributed to the understory, as this will result in heavy surface fuels and obstructions that negate a resource benefit to the identified resource concerns.


Scenario_Name:
Uneven-aged Silvicultural Rx Using Hand and Light Mechanized Equipment on Slopes Less than 25%

Scenario_Description:
Utilizing light equipment and hand work on accessible ground, to achieve uneven-aged silvicultural practices such as group selection and group retention, free thinning, single tree harvesting, are employed to address resource concerns including Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition.

Before:
The density, species composition, and spatial arrangement of trees in a stand are close to achieving the silvicultural specifications, but still require management to achieve desired conditions. The stand in this scenario still exhibit an increased susceptibility to insects and disease, an unacceptable uncharacteristic wildfire risk and/or hazard, and degraded understory plant and wildlife conditions. Large acreages of uniform stand structure, or where undesirable forest structure (species, age, size) that is susceptible to disease and fire.


Scenario_Name:
Uneven-aged Silvicultural Rx Using Hand and Light Mechanized Equipment on Slopes Greater than 25%

Scenario_Description:
Utilizing light equipment and hand work on steeper ground, to achieve uneven-aged silvicultural practices such as group selection and group retention, free thinning, single tree harvesting, are employed to address resource concerns including Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition.


Scenario_Name:
Uneven-aged Silvicultural Rx Using Ground Based Heavy Logging Equipment on Slopes Less than 25%

Scenario_Description:
Utilizing ground based mechanical logging equipment on accessible ground, to achieve uneven-aged silvicultural practices such as group selection and group retention, free thinning, single tree harvesting, are employed to address resource concerns including Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition.


Scenario_Description:
To install dimmable CFLs to replace incandescent lamps on a one-for-one basis. Light fixtures do not have to be replaced. A typical poultry house has 48 fixtures. CFL requirements: minimum 8 Watt, 4100 Kelvin, dimmable, grow-out bulb; industrial grade; suitably protected from dirt accumulation. In high humidity environments or areas subject to wash down, gasketed or weatherproof housings are required to prevent corrosion and premature failure.

Before:
An inefficient lighting system such as one using incandescent lamps has been identified by an on-farm energy audit.

After:
More efficient lighting is provided by Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) in order to reduce energy use as evidenced by the energy audit. Associated practices/activities: 122-AgEMP - HQ and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Description:
To install dimmable LEDs to replace incandescent lamps on a one-for-one basis. Light fixtures do not have to be replaced. A typical poultry house has 48 fixtures. LED requirements: minimum 6 Watt, 3700 Kelvin, dimmable, grow-out bulb; industrial grade; suitably protected from dirt accumulation. In high humidity environments or areas subject to wash down, gasketed or weatherproof housings are required to prevent corrosion and premature failure.

After:
More efficient lighting is provided by Light-Emitting Diode (LED) lamps in order to reduce energy use as evidenced by the energy audit. Associated practices/activities: 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Description:
The lighting system consists of a four-foot, three-lamp fixture with a single electronic ballast. The high-efficiency lighting system uses high-efficiency T8 or T5 fluorescent lamps. Associated materials for installation of replacement fixtures are included. Appropriate disposal of existing lamps, ballasts and other materials is required.

Before:
Inefficient lighting (such as incandescent or T12 fluorescent tubes driven by magnetic ballasts) as evidenced by an on-farm energy audit.

After:
High-efficiency lighting system which reduces energy use. The new lighting equipment will provide suitable light levels and reduce overall power requirements (kW) compared to the existing lighting system as evidenced by the energy audit. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Description:
The lighting system consists of a Pulse-Start Metal Halide (PSMH) lamp with a matched ballast or light-emitting diode (LED) equivalent fixtures (as detailed in ASABE S612-compliant energy audit). Associated materials for installation of replacement fixtures are included. Appropriate disposal of existing lamps, ballasts and other materials is required

Before:
Inefficient high-bay or exterior lighting (such as mercury vapor, T12 fluorescent, or similar) as evidenced by an on-farm energy audit.

After:
High-efficiency lighting system which reduces energy use. The new lighting equipment will provide suitable light levels and reduce overall power requirements (kW) compared to the existing lighting system as evidenced by the energy audit. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ and activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Name:
Lighting - Replace Existing Lighting Fixture with Linear LED

Scenario_Description:
To install low energy linear LED lighting system to replace existing less efficient lighting fixtures on a one-for-one basis. Associated materials for installation of replacement fixtures are included. Appropriate disposal of existing lamps, ballasts and other materials is required.

After:
More efficient lighting is provided by a linear Light-Emitting Diode (LED) fixture in order to reduce energy use as evidenced by the energy audit. The typical fixture installed is a low energy linear LED system which includes lamps and a fixture designed to withstand the environmental conditions where the system is installed. Associated practices/activities: 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a CAP 122-Ag EMP - HQ or a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Name:
Lighting - Replace Existing Lighting Fixture with High Intensity LED Flood

Scenario_Description:
To install LED flood lighting system to replace existing less efficient lighting fixtures on a one-for-one basis. Associated materials for installation of replacement fixtures are included. Appropriate disposal of existing lamps, ballasts and other materials is required.

After:
More efficient lighting is provided by a Light-Emitting Diode (LED) flood lighting fixture in order to reduce energy use as evidenced by the energy audit. The typical fixture installed is a 100 watt light emitting diode (LED) with a 5700 Kelvin, 4,000 lumens flood lamp with an industrial grade fixture designed to withstand the environmental conditions where the system is installed. Associated practices/activities: 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a CAP 122-Ag EMP - HQ or a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Description:
Install a minimum R-7 insulation in addition to existing attic or ceiling to reduce heat transfer. Increased insulation reduces seasonal heat loss and heat gain which reduces the respective need for heating and cooling equipment to operate.

Before:
A poultry house with an inefficient building envelope with limited attic insulation.

After:
A more effective and efficient building envelope can be created through addition of, or increased, attic insulation. Associated practices/activities: 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Description:
Install insulation in uninsulated or under insulated mechanically ventilated agricultural barns with a metal exterior with the use of fiberglass batts or spray polyurethane foam that includes a thermal barrier. The R-rating of the wall assembly must meet the requirements for the location. Option 1: Fiberglass batts (typically 3.5” and R-11), vapor barrier and interior plywood or OSB sheathing that meets thermal barrier requirements. Option 2) Use a closed cell polyurethane foam (typically 1” thick (R value 5-7) in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendation, a thermal barrier (typically ¾” plywood or OSB), and vapor barrier if required. Thermal barriers exposed to animals shall protect the insulation or from animal destruction (such as peck boards for the bottom 2 feet of poultry houses).

Before:
A mechanically ventilated agriculture barn with an inefficient building envelope with limited wall insulation.

After:
A more effective and efficient building envelope can be created through addition of, or increased, insulation. Associated practices/activities: may include 128-Agricultural Energy Management Plan and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Description:
A typical scenario is sealing the gaps between walls, gables, ceiling, etc. in a poultry house or greenhouse. Sealing is performed by a professional contractor, not merely use of spray foam from a can. The unit basis of payment in this scenario is each house based on 60' x 500' poultry house with an assumed need of sealant to seal 2400 linear feet of gap.

Before:
An agricultural facility with an inefficient building envelope with gaps between walls, ceiling, etc. for a total of 2400 linear feet.

After:
A more effective and efficient building envelope can be created through interior sealing of the exterior walls at the footer plate, eaves, ridge cap, and gable ends. The sealant reduces seasonal heat loss and heat gain due to infiltration which reduces the respective need for heating and cooling equipment to operate. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Description:
A typical scenario is the installation insulation in green house to address energy loss. The insulation can be either of the cellulose or bubble type (or equivalent). The increased insulation reduces seasonal heat loss and heat gain which reduces the respective need for heating and cooling equipment to operate.

Before:
Green house with standard glazing, plastic or polycarbonate walls and no insulation. Heating and cooling of an existing greenhouse is inefficient due to excessive heat loss.

After:
The greenhouse is fitted with insulation installed truss-to-truss or gutter-to-gutter and/or non glazed endwalls and/or sidewalls, reducing heat loss and gain in the greenhouse. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Description:
The mechanical energy screen system consists of a drive motor, support cables, controls, and shade material, which may be woven, knitted, or non-woven strips of aluminum fiber, polyethylene, nylon or other synthetic material. The screen provides a means to better control solar heat gain and heat transfer during night or cold weather conditions to reduce energy use. Screens and similar devices may also be used to divide internal areas and allow for differentiated heating, ventilation, or cooling system operation to reduce energy use.

Before:
Heating and cooling of an existing greenhouse, or similar structure with conditioned spaces, is inefficient due to poorly regulated heat transfer. A need to regulate an entire space for uniform conditions when some portions have differing, intermittent requirements can also reduce efficiency.

After:
The greenhouse is fitted with a mechanically controlled energy screen installed truss-to-truss or gutter-to-gutter, with side screens as necessary, reducing heat loss in the greenhouse. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.


Scenario_Description:
​Addresses water quality degradation, degraded plant condition, fish/wildlife inadequate habitat, and/or air quality impacts.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied


Practice:
B000CPL1 - Crop Bundle#1 - Precision Ag, No till

Scenario_Description:
?Addresses water quality degradation, air quality, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat plus an option on soil erosion or soil quality degradation


Practice:
B000CPL2 - Crop Bundle#2 - Precision Ag, Reduced till


Practice:
B000CPL3 - Crop Bundle#3 - Soil health rotation, No till

Scenario_Name:
Crop Bundle#3 - Soil health rotation, NT

Scenario_Description:
Addresses soil quality degradation, insufficient water, water quality degradation, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat


Practice:
B000CPL4 - Crop Bundle#4 - Soil health rotation, Reduced till

Scenario_Description:
?Addresses soil quality degradation, insufficient water, water quality degradation, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat


Practice:
B000CPL5 - Crop Bundle#5 - Soil Health Assessment, No till


Practice:
B000CPL6 - Crop Bundle#6 - Soil Health Assessment, Reduced till


Practice:
B000CPL7 - Crop Bundle#7 - Soil Health -"Organic"

Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil quality degradation, water quality degradation, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat


Practice:
B000CPL8 - Crop Bundle#8 - "Organic", Water erosion

Scenario_Name:
Crop Bundle#8 - "Organic", Water erosion

Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil erosion, soil quality degradation, and water quality degradation plus an option on fish/wildlife inadequate habitat


Practice:
B000CPL9 - Crop Bundle#9 - "Organic", Wind erosion


Scenario_Description:
​Addresses forest management on sites that are not adapted to natural fire disturbances. Addresses resource concerns air quality impacts, degraded plant condition and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat.


Scenario_Description:
​Improves conifer forest health through prescribed burning and grazing management. Addresses water quality degradation, degraded plant condition, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat.


Scenario_Description:
​Improves conifer forest health through prescribed burning and forest stand management. Addresses air quality impacts, degraded plant condition, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat.


Scenario_Description:
​Improves forest health and wildlife habitat through forest stand management. Addresses air quality impacts, degraded plant condition, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat.


Scenario_Description:
Improves forest health and wildlife habitat through conversion of forest stands that are not predominantly longleaf pine. Addresses degraded plant condition, fish/wildlife inadequate food and habitat, and water quality.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standards applied as part of the enhancement.

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standards applied.


Scenario_Description:
Improves conifer forest health through prescribed burning and forest stand management, and reduction of pine straw raking. Addresses soil and water quality, degraded plant condition, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat.


Practice:
B000MRB1 - MRBI Bundle#1 - Irrigated Cropland

Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil erosion, insufficient water, and water quality degradation


Practice:
B000MRB2 - MRBI Bundle#2 - Non-Irrigated Cropland #1

Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil erosion, soil quality degradation, and water quality degradation


Practice:
B000MRB3 - MRBI Bundle#3 - Non-Irrigated Cropland #2

Scenario_Description:
Addresses soil erosion, soil quality degradation, and water quality degradation


Practice:
B000MRB4 - MRBI Bundle#4 - Cropland with Water Bodies, No till

Scenario_Name:
MRBI Bundle#4 - Crop w/ Water Bodies, NT


Practice:
B000MRB5 - MRBI Bundle#5 - Cropland with Water Bodies, Reduced till

Scenario_Name:
MRBI Bundle#5 - Crop w/ Water Bodies, RT


Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil quality degradation, water quality degradation, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat plus an option on soil erosion


Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil erosion, water quality degradation, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat


Scenario_Description:
Addresses insufficient water, water quality degradation, and inefficient energy use plus an option on soil quality degradation


Scenario_Description:
?Addresses insufficient water, water quality degradation, and inefficient energy use plus an option on soil quality degradation


Scenario_Description:
​Addresses water quality degradation, degraded plant condition, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat


Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil quality degradation, water quality degradation, and degraded plant condition plus an option on fish/wildlife inadequate habitat


Practice:
B000PST3 - Pasture Bundle#3 -- Soil Health

Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil quality degradation, water quality degradation, and degraded plant condition


Practice:
B000PST4 - Pasture Bundle#4 - Monarch butterfly

Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil erosion, soil quality degradation, and fish/wildlife inadequate habitat


Scenario_Description:
​Addresses degraded plant condition, fish/wildlife inadequate habitat and livestock production limitation


Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil erosion, degraded plant condition, fish/wildlife inadequate habitat and livestock production limitation


Scenario_Description:
​Addresses soil quality degradation, degraded plant condition, and livestock production limitation plus an option on fish/wildlife inadequate habitat


Practice:
B000WLW - Working Lands for Wildlife Bundle

Scenario_Description:
​Addresses degraded plant condition, fish/wildlife inadequate habitat, and livestock production limitation plus an option on soil quality degradation and water quality degradation.


Practice:
E314133Z - Brush management for improved structure and composition

Scenario_Name:
Brush mgmt., improved structure and comp

Scenario_Description:
Brush management is employed to create a desired plant community, consistent with the related ecological site steady state, which will maintain or enhance the wildlife habitat desired for the identified wildlife species. It will be designed to provide plant structure, density and diversity needed to meet those habitat objectives. This enhancement does not apply to removal of woody vegetation by prescribed fire or removal of woody vegetation to facilitate a land use change.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 314 - Brush Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 314 - Brush Management


Practice:
E314134Z - Brush management that maintains or enhances wildlife or fish habitat


Practice:
E315132Z - Herbaceous weed control for desired plant communities/habitats consistent with the ecological site

Scenario_Description:
Mechanical, chemical, or biological, herbaceous weed control will be employed to control targeted, herbaceous weeds so as to create, release, or restore desired plant communities that are consistent with achievable, ecological site, steady state descriptions.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 315 - Herbaceous Weed Control

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 315 - Herbaceous Weed Control


Practice:
E315133Z - Herbaceous weed control (inadequate structure and comp) for desired plant communities/habitats


Practice:
E315134Z - Herbaceous weed control (plant pest pressures) for desired plant communities/habitats


Practice:
E327136Z1 - Conservation cover to provide food habitat for pollinators and beneficial insects

Scenario_Description:
Seed or plug nectar and pollen producing plants in non-cropped areas such as field borders, vegetative barriers, contour buffer strips, grassed waterways, shelterbelts, hedgerows, windbreaks, conservation cover, and riparian forest and herbaceous buffers.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 327 - Conservation Cover

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 327 - Conservation Cover


Practice:
E327136Z2 - Establish Monarch butterfly habitat

Scenario_Description:
Seed or plug milkweed (Asclepias spp.), the Monarch butterfly larval hostplant, and high-value monarch butterfly nectar plants in non-cropped areas such as field borders, contour buffer strips, and associated grasslands.


Practice:
E327137Z - Conservation cover to provide cover and shelter habitat for pollinators and beneficial insects


Practice:
E327139Z - Conservation cover to provide habitat continuity for pollinators and beneficial insects


Practice:
E328101I - Improved resource conserving crop rotation to reduce water erosion

Scenario_Description:
Improve an existing Resource Conserving Crop Rotation. Must enrich and existing rotation which already includes AT LEAST one resource conserving crop as determined by the State Conservationist in a minimum three year crop rotation. The crop rotation will reduce soil erosion (water and wind), improve soil health, improve soil moisture efficiency, and reduce plant pest pressures.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation


Practice:
E328101R - Resource conserving crop rotation to reduce water erosion

Scenario_Description:
Establish a Resource Conserving Crop Rotation. Rotation must include AT LEAST one resource conserving crop as determined by the State Conservationist in a minimum three year crop rotation. The crop rotation will reduce soil erosion (water and wind), improve soil health, improve soil moisture efficiency, and reduce plan pest pressures.


Practice:
E328101Z - Conservation crop rotation on recently converted CRP grass/legume cover for water erosion

Scenario_Description:
Implement a crop rotation management system on crop land acres that have recently converted from CRP grass/legume conservation cover to annual planted crops. Crop rotation minimizes disturbance resulting in a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) less than10 and reduces soil erosion from water to below soil tolerance (T) level. RUSLE2 must be used to document the rotation, soil erosion estimate, and STIR calculations. *This enhancement is limited to acres where the conversion event took place not more than 2 years prior. Enhancement not applicable on hayland.


Practice:
E328102I - Improved resource conserving crop rotation to reduce wind erosion


Practice:
E328102R - Resource conserving crop rotation to reduce wind erosion


Practice:
E328102Z - Conservation crop rotation on recently converted CRP grass/legume cover for wind erosion

Scenario_Description:
Implement a crop rotation management system on crop land acres that have recently converted from CRP grass/legume conservation cover to annual planted crops. Crop rotation minimizes disturbance resulting in a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) less than10 and reduces soil erosion from wind to below soil tolerance (T) level. WEPS must be used to document the rotation, soil erosion estimate, and STIR calculations. *This enhancement is limited to acres where the conversion event took place not more than 2 years prior. Enhancement not applicable on hayland.


Practice:
E328106I - Improved resource conserving crop rotation for soil organic matter improvement


Practice:
E328106R - Resource conserving crop rotation for soil organic matter improvement

Scenario_Description:
Establish a Resource Conserving Crop Rotation. Rotation must include AT LEAST one resource conserving crop as determined by the State Conservationist in a minimum three year crop rotation. The crop rotation will reduce soil erosion (water and wind), improve soil health, improve soil moisture efficiency, and reduce plant pest pressures.


Scenario_Description:
Implement a crop rotation which addresses all four principle components of soil health: increases diversity of the cropping system; maintains residue throughout the year; keeps a living root; and minimizes soil chemical, physical and biological disturbance. The rotation will include at least 4 different crop and/or cover crop types (crop types include cool season grass, warm season grass, cool season broadleaf, warm season broadleaf) grown in a sequence that will produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) subfactor value over the life of the rotation, as determined by the Soil Conditioning Index (SCI). RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document the rotation and SCI calculations.


Practice:
E328106Z2 - Modifications to improve soil health and increase soil organic matter

Scenario_Description:
Use of soil health assessment to evaluate impact of current conservation crop rotation in addressing soil organic matter depletion (primary assessment made in Year 1). Modifications to the crop rotation and/or crop management will be made as a result of the assessment results (adding a new crop and/or cover crop to the rotation; making changes to planting and/or tillage system, harvest timing of crops, or termination timing of cover crops). During Year 3 a follow up assessment will be completed to allow time for the modifications to show increased soil organic matter. Modified system must produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) subfactor value over the life of the rotation, as determined by the Soil Conditioning Index (SCI). RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document the rotation and SCI calculations.


Practice:
E328106Z3 - Conservation crop rotation on recently converted CRP grass/legume cover for SOM improvement

Scenario_Description:
Implement a crop rotation management system on crop land acres that have recently converted from CRP grass/legume conservation cover to annual planted crops. The crop rotation adds diversity to the system; keeps a living root growing; and is managed to minimize soil chemical, physical and biological disturbance and maintain residue cover on the surface. The rotation includes crops and/or cover crops representing 3 of the 4 crop types during the planned crop sequence: warm season grass (WSG), warm season broadleaf (WSB), cool season grass (CSG), or cool season broadleaf (CSB). The crop rotation will produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) subfactor value over the life of the rotation, as determined by the SCI. Crop rotation minimizes disturbance resulting in a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) less than10 and reduces soil erosion from wind to below soil tolerance (T) level. RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document the rotation, STIR and SCI calculations. *This enhancement is limited to acres where the conversion event took place not more than 2 years prior. Enhancement not applicable on hayland.


Practice:
E328107I - Improved resource conserving crop rotation to improve soil compaction


Practice:
E328107R - Resource conserving crop rotation to improve soil compaction


Practice:
E328109Z - Conservation crop rotation to reduce the concentration of salts

Scenario_Description:
Implement a crop rotation to reduce the concentration of salts and other chemicals from saline seeps. The rotation should include at least 3 crops and/or cover crops grown in a sequence in the recharge areas of saline seeps that have rooting depths and water requirements adequate to fully utilize all available soil water. Do not use summer fallow. Use an approved water balance procedure to determine crop selection and sequence. Select crops with a tolerance to salinity levels that match the salinity of the discharge area. <see state lists>


Practice:
E328134I - Improved resource conserving crop rotation to relieve plant pest pressure

Scenario_Description:
Improve an existing Resource Conserving Crop Rotation. The crop rotation will reduce soil erosion (water and wind), improve soil health, improve soil moisture efficiency, and reduce plan pest pressures.


Practice:
E328134R - Resource conserving crop rotation to relieve plant pest pressure


Practice:
E328136Z - Leave standing grain crops unharvested to benefit wildlife food sources

Scenario_Description:
Implement a crop rotation which allows a portion of grain crops to be left in fields un-harvested to provide food and cover for wildlife during winter months.


Practice:
E328137Z - Leave standing grain crops unharvested to benefit wildlife cover and shelter


Practice:
E329101Z - No till to reduce water erosion

Scenario_Description:
Establish no till system to reduce sheet and rill erosion soil loss. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for water erosion for the crop rotation and a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 10 for each crop in the planned rotation. RUSLE2 must be used to calculate soil loss and STIR.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed


Practice:
E329102Z - No till system to reduce wind erosion

Scenario_Description:
Establish no till system to reduce wind erosion soil loss. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for wind erosion for the crop rotation and a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 10 for each crop in the planned rotation. WEPS must be used to calculate soil loss and STIR.


Practice:
E329106Z - No till system to increase soil health and soil organic matter content

Scenario_Description:
Establish a reduced till system to increase soil health and soil organic matter content. Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 20. The crop rotation must achieve a soil conditioning index (SCI) of zero or higher and produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) subfactor over the life of the crop rotation. RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document STIR and SCI calculations. Residue shall not be burned, grazed, or harvested.


Practice:
E329114Z - No till to increase plant-available moisture: irrigation water

Scenario_Description:
Establish a no till system to increase plant-available moisture. Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 20. RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document STIR calculations. Maintain a minimum 60 percent surface residue cover throughout the year to reduce evaporation from the soil surface.


Practice:
E329115Z - No till to increase plant-available moisture: moisture management


Practice:
E329128Z - No till to reduce tillage induced particulate matter

Scenario_Description:
Establish no till system to reduce tillage induced particulate matter. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for the crop rotation and a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 10 for each crop in the planned rotation. RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document soil loss and STIR calculations.


Scenario_Description:
Establish a no till system which reduces total energy consumption associated with field operations by at least 25% compared to current tillage system (benchmark). Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 20. The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be used to document STIR calculations and energy consumption.


Practice:
E334107Z - Controlled traffic farming to reduce compaction

Scenario_Description:
Establish a controlled traffic system where no more than 25% of the surface is tracked with heavy axel loads to minimize soil compaction. For row crops (e.g. corn in 30-inch rows) no tire should run on a row except for flotation tires on combines and/or fertilizer and lime spreading trucks. If wide flotation tires are used, they must be big enough that the inflation pressure will be below 18 psi to minimize compaction on trafficked rows.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 334 - Controlled Traffic Farming

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 334 - Controlled Traffic Farming


Practice:
E338134Z - Strategic patch burning for grazing distribution/wildlife habitat (undesirable plant pressure)

Scenario_Description:
Patch burn grazing is the application of prescribed fires on portions of an identified grazing unit at different times of the year. Patch burn grazing allows grazing animals to select where they want to graze creating a mosaic of vegetation structures and diversity that will maintain or enhance the wildlife habitat desired for the identified wildlife species and maintain livestock production.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 338 - Prescribed Burning

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 338 - Prescribed Burning


Practice:
E338135Z - Strategically planned, patch burning for grazing distribution and wildlife habitat (fuel loading)


Practice:
E338136Z - Short-interval burns to promote a healthy herbaceous plant community for wildlife food

Scenario_Name:
Short-interval burns to promote a healthy herbaceous plant community for wildlife food

Scenario_Description:
The controlled use of fire is applied in a forest to restore fire-adapted plants and forage while improving wildlife habitat, wildlife food supply, and reducing the risk of damage from intense, severe wildfires. The ideal interval between prescribed burns is not often achieved. In order to improve the effectiveness of prescribed burning, the frequency of prescribed burning is increased appropriately, for a specified time period, to help restore ecological conditions in forests and woodlands. Short return interval prescribed burning is used to regenerate desirable tree species, improve the condition of fire-adapted plants and native herbaceous vegetation, improve forage quantity and quality, create wildlife habitat (snags and den/cavity trees), limit encroachment of competing vegetation including non-native species, and reduce the future risk of damage from intense, severe wildfires.

Before:
The site has a mixture of woody sprouts and some herbaceous vegetation in the forest understory.

After:
The site has a mixture of warm season perennial vegetation and cool-season annual forages. Grazing is occurring to manage the herbaceous vegetation and keep undesirable woody vegetation from occupying the forest understory.


Scenario_Description:
Prescribed burning to promote and enhance conifer forests and maintain a healthy understory. This enhancement is to conduct prescribed burns in a conifer forest, burning only a portion of the area each year to create a mosaic of vegetation in several stages of development, to provide a more diverse wildlife habitat.


Scenario_Description:
This enhancement is the controlled use of fire in a forest to restore native forest conditions with a focus on improving the condition of fire-adapted plants and wildlife habitat and reducing the risk of damage from intense, severe wildfires.


Practice:
E338140Z - Short-interval prescribed burning to promote a healthy herbaceous plant community

Scenario_Description:
?Increase the frequency of prescribed burning to help restore ecological conditions in forests and woodlands, with a focus on improving the condition of fire-adapted plants and forage while improving wildlife habitat and reducing the risk of damage from intense, severe wildfires. Short return-interval burns can also be effective in regenerating desirable native tree and herbaceous vegetation, and limiting the encroachment of competing vegetation including non-native species.


Practice:
E340101Z - Cover crop to reduce water erosion

Scenario_Description:
Cover crop added to current crop rotation to reduce soil erosion from water to below soil tolerance (T) level. Cover crops grown during critical erosion period(s). Species are selected that will have physical characteristics to provide adequate erosion protection.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop


Practice:
E340102Z - Cover crop to reduce wind erosion

Scenario_Description:
Cover crop added to current crop rotation to reduce soil erosion from wind to below the soil tolerance (T) level. Cover crops grown during critical erosion period(s). Species are selected that will have physical characteristics to provide adequate erosion protection.


Practice:
E340106Z1 - Intensive cover cropping to increase soil health and soil organic matter content

Scenario_Description:
Use of cover crops in a cropping system to add diversity, keep the soil covered, and maintain a living root as long as possible. Cover crop will be used during ALL non-crop production periods in an annual crop rotation. Cover crop may be a single species or multi-species mix. Cover crop shall not be harvested or burned. Planned crop rotation including cover crops and associated management activities must achieve a soil conditioning index (SCI) of zero or higher and produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) subfactor over the life of the crop rotation. RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document SCI calculations. Cover crops may be grazed following a prescribed grazing plan that removes no more than 40% of the biomass produced.


Practice:
E340106Z2 - Use of multi-species cover crops to improve soil health and increase soil organic matter

Scenario_Description:
Implement a multi-species cover crop to add diversity and increase biomass production to improve soil health and increased soil organic matter. Cover crop mix must include a minimum of 4 different species. The cover crop mix will increase diversity of the crop rotation by including crop types currently missing, e.g. Cool Season Grass (CSG), Cool Season Broadleaves (CSB), Warm Season Grasses (WSG), Warm Season Broadleaves (WSB).


Practice:
E340106Z3 - Intensive cover cropping (orchard/vineyard floor) to increase soil health and SOM content

Scenario_Description:
Implementation of cover crops to provide orchard or vineyard floor coverage throughout the year. Cover crop shall not be harvested, grazed, or burned. Planned cover crop management activities must achieve a soil conditioning index (SCI) of zero or higher and produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) subfactor over the life of the crop rotation. RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document SCI calculations.


Practice:
E340106Z4 - Use of SHA to assist with development of cover crop mix to improve soil health and increase SOM

Scenario_Description:
Use of a soil health assessment to evaluate impact of current conservation crop rotation in addressing soil organic matter depletion (primary assessment made in Year 1). Soil health assessment results will be utilized to determine the correct Carbon to Nitrogen ratio of a multi-species cover crop mix that will be added to the crop rotation. During Year 3 a follow up assessment will be completed to allow time for the addition of a cover crop to increased soil organic matter.


Practice:
E340107Z - Cover crop to minimize soil compaction

Scenario_Description:
Establish a cover crop mix that includes plants with both fibrous root and deep rooted systems. Fibrous to treat and prevent both near surface (0-4”) and deep (>4”) soil compaction and deep rooted to break up deep compacted soils. Cover crop shall not be harvested, grazed, or burned.


Practice:
E340118Z - Cover crop to reduce water quality degradation by utilizing excess soil nutrients-surface water

Scenario_Description:
Establish a cover crop mix to take up excess soil nutrients. Select cover crop species for their ability to effectively utilize nutrients. Terminate the cover crop as late as practical to maximize plant biomass production and nutrient uptake. Cover crop shall not be harvested, grazed, or burned.


Practice:
E340119Z - Cover crop to reduce water quality degradation by utilizing excess soil nutrients-ground water


Practice:
E340134Z - Cover crop to suppress excessive weed pressures and break pest cycles

Scenario_Description:
Establish a cover crop mix to suppress excessive weed pressures and break pest cycles. Select cover crop species for their life cycles, growth habits, and other biological, chemical and/or physical characteristics. Select cover crop species that do not harbor pests or diseases of subsequent crops in the rotation. Cover crop shall not be harvested, grazed, or burned.


Practice:
E345101Z - Reduced tillage to reduce water erosion

Scenario_Description:
Establish a reduced tillage system to reduce sheet and rill erosion soil loss. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for water erosion for the crop rotation and a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 40 for each crop in the planned rotation. RUSLE2 must be used to calculate soil loss and STIR.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till


Practice:
E345102Z - Reduced tillage to reduce wind erosion

Scenario_Description:
Establish a reduced tillage system to reduce wind erosion soil loss. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for wind erosion for the crop rotation and a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 40 for each crop in the planned rotation. WEPS must be used to calculate soil loss and STIR.


Practice:
E345106Z - Reduced tillage to increase soil health and soil organic matter content

Scenario_Description:
Establish a reduced till system to increase soil health and soil organic matter content. Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 80. The crop rotation must achieve a soil conditioning index (SCI) of zero or higher and produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) subfactor over the life of the crop rotation. RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document STIR and SCI calculations. Residue shall not be burned, grazed, or harvested.


Practice:
E345114Z - Reduced tillage to increase plant-available moisture: irrigation water

Scenario_Description:
Establish a reduced till system to increase plant-available moisture. Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 80. RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document STIR calculations. Maintain a minimum 60 percent surface residue cover throughout the year to reduce evaporation from the soil surface.


Practice:
E345115Z - Reduced tillage to increase plant-available moisture: moisture management


Practice:
E345128Z - Reduced tillage to reduce tillage induced particulate matter

Scenario_Description:
Establish a reduced tillage system to reduce tillage induced particulate matter. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for the crop rotation and a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 40 for each crop in the planned rotation. RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document soil loss and STIR calculations.


Practice:
E345144Z - Reduced tillage to reduce energy use

Scenario_Description:
Establish a reduced tillage system which reduces total energy consumption associated with field operations by at least 25% compared to conventional tillage systems (benchmark). Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 80. RUSLE2 must be used to document STIR calculations and energy consumption. <State lists will be prepared providing conventional system benchmark energy values and reduced tillage system values for those systems using at least 25% less energy>


Practice:
E374144Z1 - Install variable frequency drive(s) on pump(s)

Scenario_Description:
Install Variable Frequency Drive(s) (CPS 533 Pumping Plant) with the correct sensors, on all pumps indicated in the energy audit.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement


Practice:
E374144Z2 - Switch fuel source for pump motor(s)

Scenario_Description:
Switch fuel source for the pump motor(s) indicated in the audit to a renewable source (wind, solar, geothermal, etc..). (CPS 533 Pumping Plant)


Practice:
E376128Z - Modify field operations to reduce particulate matter

Scenario_Description:
Modify tillage and/or harvest operations to reduce particulates by at least 20 percent below the required levels.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 376 - Field Operations Emissions Reduction

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 376 - Field Operations Emissions Reduction


Practice:
E381133Z - Silvopasture for wildlife habitat (structure and composition)

Scenario_Description:
Establishing a combination of trees or shrubs and compatible forages on the same acreage, providing forage for livestock and the production of wood products, and including a purpose of enhancing wildlife habitat.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 381 - Silvopasture

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 381 - Silvopasture


Practice:
E381137Z - Silvopasture for wildlife habitat (cover and shelter)

Scenario_Description:
Establishing a combination of trees or shrubs and compatible forages on the same acreage, providing forage for livestock and the production of wood products, and including a purpose of enhancing wildlife cover and shelter.


Practice:
E382136Z - Incorporating "wildlife friendly" fencing for connectivity of wildlife food resources

Scenario_Description:
Retrofitting or constructing fences that provide a means to control movement of animals, people, and vehicles, but minimizes wildlife movement impacts.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 382 - Fence

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 382 - Fence


Practice:
E383135Z - Grazing-maintained fuel break to reduce the risk of fire

Scenario_Description:
​The property has existing fuel breaks of 30 to 60 feet in width. Warm-season perennial vegetation will be established on the fuel breaks, and will be over-seeded with cool-season annual forages in the fall. Grazing will be managed on the fuel break to remove or modify the fine fuel vegetation, to reduce the risk of fire spread from ground fires, maintain adequate soil cover, control erosion, and facilitate prescribed burning.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 383 - Fuel Break

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 383 - Fuel Break


Practice:
E384135Z - Biochar production from woody residue

Scenario_Description:
Utilizes woody debris remaining after fuel reduction harvests or wildfires to create biochar. Biochar stores carbon and is a useful soil amendment that improves SOM and water-holding capacity.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 384 - Woody Residue Treatment

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 384 - Woody Residue Treatment


Practice:
E386101Z - Enhanced field borders to reduce water induced erosion along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario_Description:
​Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 30 feet and establish a single specie or mixture of species that provide a dense ground cover along the edge(s) of the field.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border


Practice:
E386102Z - Enhanced field borders to reduce wind induced erosion along the windward side(s) of a field


Practice:
E386106Z - Enhanced field borders to increase carbon storage along the edge(s) of the field

Scenario_Name:
Field borders to increase carbon storage

Scenario_Description:
​Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 30 feet and establish a single specie or mixture of species that provide a dense ground cover and dense rooting system along the edge(s) of the field.


Practice:
E386128Z - Enhanced field borders to decrease particulate emissions along the edge(s) of the field

Scenario_Description:
​Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 40 feet and establish a mixture of species that decrease the particulate emissions along the edge(s) of the field.


Practice:
E386136Z - Enhanced field border to provide wildlife food for pollinators along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario_Description:
​Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 40 feet and establish a mixture of species that provide food for pollinators along the edge(s) of the field.


Practice:
E386137Z - Enhanced field border to provide wildlife cover or shelter along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario_Description:
​Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 40 feet and establish a mixture of species that provide wildlife food and cover along the edge(s) of the field.


Practice:
E386139Z - Enhanced field border to provide wildlife habitat continuity along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario_Description:
​Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 40 feet and establish a mixture of species that provide wildlife habitat continuity along the edge(s) of the field.


Practice:
E390118Z - Increase riparian herbaceous cover width for nutrient reduction

Scenario_Description:
Where an existing herbaceous riparian buffer is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the width of the buffer in order to allow a greater percentage of nutrient removal from surface and subsurface flows. Saturated buffer or nutrient control wetland to capture subsurface drainage.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover


Practice:
E390126Z - Increase riparian herbaceous cover width to reduce sediment loading

Scenario_Description:
Where an existing herbaceous riparian buffer is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the width of the buffer in order to allow a greater percentage of nutrient removal from surface and subsurface flows.


Practice:
E390136Z - Increase riparian herbaceous cover width to enhance wildlife habitat

Scenario_Description:
Where an existing herbaceous riparian buffer is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the diversity of native species, control invasive species, install fencing and relocate equipment operations, trails, and livestock, and increase the width of the buffer.


Practice:
E391118Z - Increase riparian forest buffer width for nutrient reduction

Scenario_Description:
Where an existing forested riparian area is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the width of the buffer in order to allow a greater percentage of nutrient removal from surface and subsurface flows. Saturated buffer or nutrient control wetland to capture subsurface drainage.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer


Practice:
E391126Z - Increase riparian forest buffer width to reduce sediment loading

Scenario_Description:
Where an existing forested riparian area is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the width of the buffer in order to allow a greater percentage of nutrient removal from surface and subsurface flows.


Practice:
E391127Z - Increase stream shading for stream temperature reduction

Scenario_Description:
Riparian area tree canopy cover density is increased and the extent of the forested riparian area is increased to provide greater stream shading.


Practice:
E391136Z - Increase riparian forest buffer width to enhance wildlife habitat

Scenario_Description:
Where an existing forested riparian area is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the diversity of native species, control invasive species, install fencing and relocate equipment operations, trails, and livestock, and increase the width of the buffer.


Practice:
E393118Z - Extend existing filter strip to reduce excess nutrients in surface water

Scenario_Description:
Extend existing filter strips for water quality protection (reduce excess nutrients in surface water). Extend the existing buffer for a total of 60 feet or more to enhance water quality functions. The extended buffers must be composed of at least 5 species of non-noxious, wildlife friendly grasses and/or perennial forbs best suited to site conditions. Include species that provide pollinator food and habitat where possible.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 393 - Filter Strip

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 393 - Filter Strip


Practice:
E393122Z - Extend existing filter strip to reduce excess pathogens and chemicals in surface water

Scenario_Description:
Extend existing filter strips for water quality protection (reduce excess pathogens and chemicals from manure, bio-solids or compost applications in surface waters ). Extend the existing buffer for a total of 60 feet or more to enhance water quality functions. The extended buffers must be composed of at least 5 species of non-noxious, wildlife friendly grasses and/or perennial forbs best suited to site conditions. Include species that provide pollinator food and habitat where possible.


Practice:
E393126Z - Extend existing filter strip to reduce excess sediment in surface water

Scenario_Description:
Extend existing filter strips for water quality protection (reduce excess sediment in surface waters ). Extend the existing buffer for a total of 60 feet or more to enhance water quality functions. The extended buffers must be composed of at least 5 species of non-noxious, wildlife friendly grasses and/or perennial forbs best suited to site conditions. Include species that provide pollinator food and habitat where possible.


Practice:
E395137X - Stream habitat improvement through placement of woody biomass

Scenario_Description:
Flexible placement of wood (unanchored/unpinned) in small, 1st and 2nd order streams to improve stream habitat conditions for aquatic species and natural stream processes.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management


Practice:
E399137X - Fishpond management for native aquatic and terrestrial species

Scenario_Description:
Pond rehabilitation (e.g., dredging), buffer, and watershed management actions are taken to improve habitat for native species of fish, amphibians, and shorebirds.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 399 - Fishpond Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 399 - Fishpond Management


Practice:
E449114Z5 - Complete pumping plant evaluation for all existing pumps on a farm.

Scenario_Description:
Evaluation of all pumping plants to determine the potential to rehabilitate/replace/reconfigure to perform 10% more efficiently. Evaluate to determine if a Variable Frequency Drive motor controller(s) is recommended and the simple payback in terms of energy savings is less than 10 years.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 – Irrigation Water Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard, (CPS) 449 – Irrigation Water Management.


Practice:
E449114Z6 - Automated Intermittent flood irrigation of rice fields, Year 2-5

Scenario_Name:
Automated Intermittent flood irrigation of rice fields, Year 2-5

Scenario_Description:
Rice fields are drained and allowed to “dry down” to a saturated soil condition prior to re-flooding the field. System is installed in year 1 with Scenario E449114Z8 and this scenario used in years 2-5.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 – Irrigation Water Management.

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 – Irrigation Water Management.


Practice:
E449114Z7 - Advanced Automated IWM – Year 2-5, Soil moisture is monitored, recorded and used in decision making

Scenario_Name:
Advanced Automated IWM – Year 2-5, soil moisture monitoring

Scenario_Description:
Advanced automated irrigation water management using soil moisture monitoring (one sensor per 40 acres or less) with data loggers. Record keeping is such that a daily water balance is calculated and future irrigation is forecast. Equipment was bought in year one, this is monitoring for future years. Subscription service may be used as source for monitoring. System will be monitored and controlled using remote devices.

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 – Irrigation Water Management


Practice:
E449114Z8 - Advanced Automated IWM – Year 1 – Equipment and soil moisture is monitored, recorded and used in decision making

Scenario_Name:
Advanced Automated IWM – Year 1 Equipment and soil moisture monitoring

Scenario_Description:
Year 1 is used to purchase equipment to do advanced automated irrigation water management. System incuses field specific weather station data with soil moisture monitoring (one sensor station per 40 acres or less) data loggers and telemetry. Sensor stations will included minimum of 2 sensors per site at depths appropriate for the crop and soils. Equipment may include; weather station, sensors, flow meter, data loggers, as needed to monitor soil moisture, determine and forecast crop water use and remotely control irrigation system. Data to be monitored includes crop water use, status of heat and/or frost conditions to permit the producer to make informed irrigation decisions. The installation includes the purchase and installation of equipment, and a data logger to log continuous weather data including rainfall, temp, solar radiation, humidity, wind speed and soil moisture sensors that can be downloaded to a personal computer and associated graphing software. Typical Scenario involves installation on a 120 acre field of irrigated cropland. Producer monitors the station during the growing season to determine timing and amounts of water to apply based on soil moisture sensors, field checks and weather station data. Producer keeps records of collected data and resulting irrigation decisions. This scenario only applies to year one of IWM. The appropriate labor-only IWM scenarios apply in subsequent contract years.


Practice:
E449144Z - Complete pumping plant evaluation for all pumps on a farm.

Scenario_Description:
Rehabilitate/replace/reconfigure all pumps that have the potential to perform 10% more efficiently as identified in the pump test.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water Management


Practice:
E472118Z - Manage livestock access to streams/ditches/other waterbodies to reduce nutrients in surface water

Scenario_Description:
Installation of structures and implementation of grazing management actions that restrict livestock access to streams, ditches, and other waterbodies in order to reduce nutrient loading to surface waters.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 472 - Access Control

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 472 - Access Control

Feature_Measure:
(Stream length protected * 2) + ((Channel+Bankfull Width)*4)


Practice:
E472122Z - Manage livestock access to streams/ditches/other waterbodies to reduce pathogens in surface water

Scenario_Description:
Installation of structures and implementation of grazing management actions that restrict livestock access to streams, ditches, and other waterbodies in order to reduce the introduction of pathogens to surface waters.


Practice:
E484106Z - Mulching to improve soil health

Scenario_Description:
Implement a crop rotation which utilizes mulch and addresses all four principle components of soil health: increases diversity of the cropping system; maintains residue throughout the year; keeps a living root; and minimizes soil chemical, physical and biological disturbance. Plant-based mulching materials will be applied at least once during the rotation. The rotation will include at least 4 different crop and/or cover crop types (crop types include cool season grass, warm season grass, cool season broadleaf, warm season broadleaf) grown in a sequence that will produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) subfactor value over the life of the rotation, as determined by the Soil Conditioning Index (SCI). RUSLE2 or WEPS must be used to document the rotation and SCI calculations.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 484 - Mulching

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 484 - Mulching


Practice:
E511137Z1 - Harvest of crops (hay or small grains) using measures that allow desired species to flush or escape

Scenario_Description:
​Harvest of crops (hay or small grains) using conservation measures that allow desired species to flush or escape. <species list State Wildlife Action Plan> Conservation measures include timing of harvest, idling land during the nesting or fawning period, and applying harvest techniques that reduce mortality to wildlife.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 511 - Forage Harvest Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 511 - Forage Harvest Management


Practice:
E511137Z2 - Forage harvest management that helps maintain or improve wildlife habitat (cover and shelter)

Scenario_Description:
​The timely cutting and removal of forages from the field as hay, green-chop, or ensilage in such as way and time frames so as optimize both forage yield/quality and wildlife cover and shelter.


Practice:
E511139Z2 - Forage harvest management that helps maintain wildlife habitat continuity (space)

Scenario_Description:
​The timely cutting and removal of forages from the field as hay, green-chop, or ensilage in such as way and time frames so as optimize both forage yield/quality and wildlife cover and shelter for habitat and/or continuity between otherwise disconnected habitats.


Practice:
E512101Z1 - Cropland conversion to grass-based agriculture to reduce water erosion

Scenario_Description:
Conversion of cropped land to grass-based agriculture. Mixtures of perennial grasses, forbs, and/or legume species are established on cropland where annually-seeded cash crops have been grown.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and Biomass Planting

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and Biomass Planting


Practice:
E512101Z2 - Forage and biomass planting for water erosion to improve soil health

Scenario_Description:
Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species suitable for pasture, hay, or biomass production that can provide for reduced soil erosion, improving soil health.


Practice:
E512102Z - Cropland conversion to grass-based agriculture to reduce wind erosion


Practice:
E512106Z1 - Cropland conversion to grass-based agriculture for soil organic matter improvement


Practice:
E512106Z2 - Forage plantings that can help increase organic matter in depleted soils

Scenario_Description:
Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species suitable for pasture, hay, or biomass production that can help improve soil quality of depleted sites through increase or conservation of the organic matter in the soil.


Practice:
E512132Z1 - Forage and biomass planting that produces feedstock for biofuels or energy production


Practice:
E512132Z2 - Native grasses or legumes in forage base to improve plant productivity and health

Scenario_Description:
Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of perennial, herbaceous species that can provide the structure and composition needed to enhance livestock and wildlife habitat, particularly when targeted forage supply and quality, cover, and shelter are not available in other pastures.


Practice:
E512133Z1 - Native grasses or legumes in forage base to improve plant community structure and composition


Practice:
E512133Z2 - Forage plantings that enhance bird habitat (structure and composition)

Scenario_Description:
Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species suitable for pasture, hay, or biomass production that can provide cover and shelter components of bird habitat.


Practice:
E512136Z1 - Establish pollinator and/or beneficial insect food habitat

Scenario_Description:
Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species that can provide nectar for pollinators and forage and other habitat values for wildlife and livestock, particularly at times when targeted nectar, forage supply and quality, cover, and shelter are not available in other pastures.


Practice:
E512136Z2 - Native grass or legumes in forage base to provide wildlife food


Practice:
E512137Z - Forage plantings that enhance bird habitat (cover and shelter)


Practice:
E512138Z - Establish wildlife corridors to enhance access to water

Scenario_Description:
Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of perennial, herbaceous species that can provide cover needed for wildlife species of concern to move from food/cover/water sources to other food/cover/water sources as needed for their life cycles, and/or to enhance the utility of underused wildlife habitat areas.


Practice:
E512139Z1 - Establish wildlife corridors to provide habitat continuity


Practice:
E512139Z2 - Establish pollinator and/or beneficial insect habitat continuity (space)

Scenario_Description:
​Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species that can provide nectar for pollinators and forage and other habitat values for wildlife and livestock, particularly at times when targeted nectar, forage supply and quality, cover, and shelter are not available in other pastures.


Practice:
E512139Z3 - Establish Monarch butterfly habitat in pastures

Scenario_Name:
Establish Monarch Butterfly Habitat in pastures

Scenario_Description:
Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species that can provide nectar for Monarch butterflies and forage and other habitat values for wildlife and livestock, particularly at times when targeted nectar, forage supply and quality, cover, and shelter are not available in other pastures.


Practice:
E512140Z - Native grasses or legumes in forage base

Scenario_Name:
Native grasses or legumes in forage base

Scenario_Description:
​Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of perennial, herbaceous species that can provide the structure and composition needed to enhance livestock and wildlife habitat, particularly when targeted forage supply and quality, cover, and shelter are not available in other pastures.


Practice:
E528101Z - Improved grazing management for water erosion through monitoring activities

Scenario_Description:
Three predominant key grazing areas are evaluated utilizing the Rangeland Health Assessment protocols to determine how well the ecological processes of the site(s) are functioning. Departure from reference categories will be determined, justified, and ratings described for soil and site stability, hydrologic function, and biotic integrity. Utilizing knowledge learned from this as a part of the ranch resource assessment, a Certified Range Management Consultant or Certified Professional in Range Management will provide recommendations or follow-up evaluations toward mitigating some of the degradation risks that are initially identified.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing


Practice:
E528102Z - Improved grazing management for wind erosion through monitoring activities


Practice:
E528104Z - Grazing management that protects sensitive areas from gully erosion

Scenario_Description:
Grazing management employed will provide cover and density needed in the watershed in order to protect sensitive areas such as sinkholes, streams, highly erodible areas, or locations with plants that cannot tolerate defoliation.


Practice:
E528105Z - Prescribed grazing that improves or maintains riparian and watershed function-erosion

Scenario_Description:
Grazing management employed will provide cover and density needed in the watershed in order to reduce runoff, improve infiltration, provide for above ground water filtration and sustain applicable fish and wildlife species habitat.


Practice:
E528107Z1 - Improved grazing management for soil compaction through monitoring activities

Scenario_Description:
Managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals as adjusted when following recommendations of a Certified Forage and Grassland Professional, Certified Range Management Consultant, or Certified Professional in Range Management, generated through pasture condition scoring (PCS).


Practice:
E528107Z2 - Improved grazing management for soil compaction on rangeland through monitoring activities

Scenario_Description:
​Three predominant key grazing areas are evaluated utilizing the Rangeland Health Assessment protocols to determine how well the ecological processes of the site(s) are functioning. Departure from reference categories will be determined, justified, and ratings described for soil and site stability, hydrologic function, and biotic integrity. Utilizing knowledge learned from this as a part of the ranch resource assessment, a Certified Range Management Consultant or Certified Professional in Range Management will provide recommendations or follow-up evaluations toward mitigating some of the degradation risks that are initially identified.


Practice:
E528118Z1 - Prescribed grazing that maintains/improves riparian/watershed function impairment from nutrients


Practice:
E528118Z2 - Grazing management that protects sensitive areas-surface water from nutrients


Practice:
E528119Z - Grazing management that protects sensitive areas-ground water from nutrients

Scenario_Name:
Grazing mgmt.-sensitive area-nut sub water


Practice:
E528122Z - Prescribed grazing that maintains/improves riparian/watershed function-pathogens/chemicals


Practice:
E528126Z - Prescribed grazing that maintains/improves riparian/watershed function-min sediment in surface water


Practice:
E528127Z - Prescribed grazing that improves or maintains riparian/watershed function-elevated water temperature


Practice:
E528132Z1 - Improved grazing mgmt. for plant productivity/health through monitoring


Practice:
E528132Z2 - Stockpiling cool season forage to improve plant productivity and health

Scenario_Description:
Grazing management employed to stop grazing events of selected paddock(s) to allow pasture forages to grow to maximum vegetative biomass accumulation before the end of the growing season.


Practice:
E528132Z3 - Improved grazing management for plant productivity/health through monitoring


Practice:
E528133Z1 - Stockpiling cool season forage to improve structure and composition.

Scenario_Description:
Grazing management employed will stop grazing events of selected paddock(s) to allow pasture forages to grow to maximum vegetative biomass accumulation before the end of the growing season.


Practice:
E528133Z2 - Grazing management for improving quantity/quality of plant structure/composition for wildlife

Scenario_Description:
Managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals for the purpose of improving or maintaining the structure and composition of the plant community that is available for wildlife.


Practice:
E528133Z3 - Improved grazing management for plant structure and composition through monitoring activities


Practice:
E528134Z - Improved grazing management that reduces undesirable plant pest pressure through monitoring


Practice:
E528136Z1 - Grazing management for improving quantity and quality of food for wildlife

Scenario_Description:
Grazing management employed will provide plant structure, density and diversity needed for the desired wildlife species of concern.


Practice:
E528136Z2 - Incorporating wildlife refuge areas in contingency plans for wildlife food

Scenario_Description:
A prescribed grazing plan that includes 18 month (or longer) deferment of a pasture that consists of native grasses and/or legumes and/or perennial forbs for the purpose of meeting the needs for drought/disaster contingency plans that will also provide wildlife habitat for a period of time.


Practice:
E528136Z3 - Grazing management that improves Monarch butterfly habitat

Scenario_Description:
Implement a grazing management plan that will increase the abundance and diversity of monarch nectar-producing perennial forbs, including milkweed, while maintaining ecosystem benefits for other wildlife and livestock.


Practice:
E528137Z1 - Grazing management for improving quantity and quality of cover and shelter for wildlife


Practice:
E528137Z2 - Incorporating wildlife refuge areas in contingency plans for prescribed grazing-cover/shelter

Scenario_Description:
A prescribed grazing plan that includes 12 month (or longer) deferment of a pasture that consists of native grasses and/or legumes and/or perennial forbs for the purpose of meeting the needs for drought/disaster contingency plans that will also provide wildlife habitat for a period of time.


Practice:
E528138Z - Incorporating wildlife refuge areas in contingency plans for prescribed grazing-water access


Practice:
E528140Z1 - Maintaining quantity and quality of forage for animal health and productivity

Scenario_Description:
Managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals for the purposes of maintaining desired pasture composition/plant vigor and improving/maintaining quantity and quality of forage for the animals' health and productivity..


Practice:
E528140Z2 - Incorporating wildlife refuge areas in contingency plans for livestock feed and forage


Practice:
E550106Z - Range planting for increasing/maintaining organic matter

Scenario_Description:
Establishment of adapted perennial or self-sustaining vegetation such as grasses, forbs, legumes, shrubs and trees for the purpose of increasing or maintaining organic matter levels in the soil.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 550 - Range Planting

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 550 - Range Planting


Practice:
E550136Z - Range planting for improving forage, browse, or cover for wildlife

Scenario_Description:
Establishment of adapted perennial or self-sustaining vegetation such as grasses, forbs, legumes, shrubs and trees for the purpose of improving forage, browse, or cover for wildlife on areas that have been degraded beyond recovery via ecological principles, or old crop fields and pastures devoid of desirable, native rangeland species that range within an ecological site description steady state.


Practice:
E554118Z1 - Installation of end of pipe or ditch treatment for phosphorus

Scenario_Description:
Add end of pipe treatment. If dissolved Phosphorus is the pollutant of concern, add Interim standard 782, Phosphorus Treatment Structure for each pipe outlet in a field.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 554 - Drainage Water Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 554 - Drainage Water Management


Practice:
E554118Z2 - Installation of a saturated buffer drain outlet

Scenario_Description:
Install Conservation Practice Standard 604, Saturated Buffer so all of the drain outlets on a field are routed through an appropriate buffer.


Practice:
E554118Z3 - Installation of end of pipe or ditch treatment for nitrogen

Scenario_Description:
Add end of pipe/ditch treatment if Nitrogen is the pollutant of concern. Add CPS 605, Denitrifying Bioreactor for each drainage outlet in a field.


Practice:
E554138X - Extend the periods of soil saturation or shallow ponding for wildlife

Scenario_Description:
​Extending the periods of wetness (soil saturation or shallow water), in excess of those required under National Conservation Practice Standard (NCP) Drainage Water Management (554), to meet the additional consideration of wildlife.


Scenario_Description:
Existing stream crossings on an operation are consolidated into fewer crossings in order to reduce impacts to stream habitat.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 578 - Stream Crossing

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 578 - Stream Crossing


Practice:
E580105Z - Stream corridor bank stability improvement

Scenario_Description:
​Stream corridor bank vegetation components are established to provide additional streambank stability.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection


Practice:
E580137Z - Stream corridor bank vegetation improvement

Scenario_Description:
Stream corridor bank vegetation components are established to improve ecosystem functioning and stability.


Practice:
E590118X - Reduce risks of nutrient losses to surface water by utilizing precision ag technologies

Scenario_Description:
Utilize precision application technology and techniques to reduce risk of nutrients in surface water by reducing total amount of applied and reducing the potential for delivery of nutrients into water bodies. Precision agriculture technology is utilized to plan and apply nutrients to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce risk of nutrient losses.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 590 - Nutrient Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 590 - Nutrient Management


Practice:
E590118Z - Improving nutrient uptake efficiency and reducing risk of nutrient losses to surface water

Scenario_Description:
Nutrient management encompasses managing the amount, source, placement, and timing of the application of plant nutrients and soil amendments. Nutrients are currently being applied on the farm based on the 4R nutrient stewardship principles. Enhanced nutrient use efficiency strategies or technologies are utilized to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce risk of nutrient losses.


Practice:
E590119X - Reduce risks of nutrient losses to ground water by utilizing precision agriculture technologies to p

Scenario_Description:
Utilize precision application technology and techniques to reduce risk of nutrients in ground water by reducing total amount of applied and reducing the potential for delivery of nutrients into water bodies. Precision agriculture technology is utilized to plan and apply nutrients to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce risk of nutrient losses.


Practice:
E590119Z - Improving nutrient uptake efficiency and reducing risk of nutrient losses to groundwater


Practice:
E590130Z - Improving nutrient uptake efficiency and reducing risks to air quality - emissions of GHGs

Scenario_Description:
Nutrient management encompasses managing the amount, source, placement, and timing of the application of plant nutrients and soil amendments. Nutrients are currently being applied on the farm based on the 4R nutrient stewardship principles. Enhanced nutrient use efficiency strategies or technologies are utilized to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce risks to air quality by reducing emissions of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs).


Practice:
E595116X - Reduce risk of pesticides in surface water by utilizing precision pesticide application techniques

Scenario_Description:
​Utilize precision application techniques to reduce risk of pesticides in surface water by reducing total amount of chemical applied and reducing the potential for delivery of chemicals into water bodies.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 595 - Integrated Pest Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 595 - Integrated Pest Management


Practice:
E595116Z - Reduce risk of pesticides in surface water by utilizing IPM PAMS techniques

Scenario_Description:
Utilize integrated pest management (IPM) prevent, avoidance, monitoring, and suppression (PAMS) techniques to reduce risk of pesticides in surface water and reducing the potential for delivery of chemicals into water bodies.


Practice:
E595116Z2 - Reducing routine neonicotinoid seed treatments on corn and soybean crops.

Scenario_Description:
Eliminate routine use of neonicotinoid seed treatments to reduce risk of pesticides in surface water by reducing total amount of chemical applied and reducing the potential for delivery of chemicals into water bodies that would impair water quality and fish and wildlife habitat.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level established in the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 595 - Integrated Pest Management.

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 595 - Integrated Pest Management.


Practice:
E595129Z - Reduce ozone precursor emissions related to pesticides by utilizing IPM PAMS techniques

Scenario_Description:
​Utilize integrated pest management (IPM) prevent, avoidance, monitoring, and suppression (PAMS) techniques to reduce ozone precursor emissions related to pesticides.


Practice:
E612126Z - Cropland conversion to trees or shrubs for long term improvement of water quality

Scenario_Description:
Conversion of cropped land to trees for long term erosion control and improvement of water quality. Trees are established on cropland where annually-seeded cash crops have been grown

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment


Practice:
E612130Z - Planting for high carbon sequestration rate

Scenario_Description:
Plant tree species and use stocking levels for higher growth to increase the rate of carbon sequestration (capture). Use species with a longer life span as well as relatively fast growth, and species suitable for durable manufactured products. Increase stocking levels in forests that are not fully stocked. Implement afforestation on appropriate open lands.


Practice:
E612132Z - Establishing tree/shrub species to restore native plant communities

Scenario_Description:
​Establish trees and/or shrubs to restore elements of plant diversity that have been lost through past diseases or improper management. For example, disease-resistant varieties of elm and chestnut can be established to restore the ecological functions of American elm and American chestnut. At the stand level, past forest management may have eliminated certain native tree species. Restoring stand-level diversity and function addresses a wide array of resource concerns and strengthens ongoing management activities. This enhancement improves a forest that is already in good condition by increasing plant diversity, and improving health and vigor through adding plants with resistance to disease, pests, or other local hazards. Additional benefits include contributing to carbon storage, and providing diversity in wildlife habitat and food sources.


Practice:
E612133X1 - Adding food-producing trees and shrubs to existing plantings

Scenario_Description:
Plant food-producing trees and shrubs for wildlife or human consumption within windbreaks, alley cropping, multi-story cropping, or silvopasture systems, or riparian forest buffers.


Scenario_Description:
​Plant trees and shrubs that are of cultural significance, such as those species utilized by Tribes in traditional practices, medicinal, species used in basket-making, etc. (e.g., paper birch, slippery elm, witch hazel).


Scenario_Description:
?Maintain at least 20% of basal area in species other than sugar maple to provide species diversity. Half of the trees that are not sugar maples (10%) will be mast-producing species. Use maple tree tapping guidelines that minimize tree damage.


Practice:
E612136Z - Tree/shrub planting for wildlife food

Scenario_Description:
?Tree or shrub planting to enhance habitat for native wildlife. A minimum of five tree or shrub species will be used; they will be species that provide food and/or cover for identified wildlife species.


Practice:
E612137Z - Tree/shrub planting for wildlife cover

Scenario_Description:
Tree or shrub planting to enhance habitat for native wildlife. A minimum of five tree or shrub species will be used; they will be species that provide food and/or cover for identified wildlife species.


Practice:
E643132X - Restoration of sensitive coastal vegetative communities

Scenario_Description:
?Enhance the level of restoration in unique and diminishing coastal ecosystems by establishing native herbaceous and woody plants. Protect established vegetation, and manage to maintain floristic quality and the provision of environmental services.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 643 - Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 643 - Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats


Practice:
E643139X - Creating native plant refugia

Scenario_Description:
Provide protection from adverse environmental conditions to create refugia for documented occurrences of sensitive plant communities.


Practice:
E644136Z - Managing Flood-Irrigated Landscapes for Wildlife

Scenario_Name:
Manage flood irrigated landscape for wildlife food

Scenario_Description:
When flooded to shallow depths at the appropriate time of year, flood-irrigated cropland and pastureland provides foraging habitat for breeding and migratory waterfowl and waterbirds.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 644 – Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 644 – Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management


Practice:
E645137Z - Reduction of attractants to human-subsidized predators in sensitive wildlife species habitat

Scenario_Description:
Reduction of artificial perching sites, nest sites, food, and water available to subsidized predators in areas where human-subsidized predators are a threat to sensitive wildlife species. Human-subsidized predators may include ravens, crows, magpies, coyotes, foxes, skunks, raccoons, and other species. Activities under this enhancement may include removal of non- native or invasive trees; removal of unused power poles, corrals, windmills, buildings, and other vertical structures; and/or removal or management of watering facilities, dead livestock, road kill, garbage, animal feed, dumps, and other non-natural food sources.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management


Practice:
E646136Z1 - Close structures to capture/retain rainfall to improve food for waterfowl/wading birds during winter

Scenario_Description:
​When flooded to shallow depths during fall and winter, agricultural fields provide ideal foraging habitat for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds . In addition, flooded conditions promote establishment of aquatic invertebrate populations, thus providing protein-rich food sources for shorebirds as well as waterfowl and wading birds.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water Development and Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water Development and Management


Practice:
E646136Z2 - Extend retention of rainfall to provide food for late winter habitat

Scenario_Description:
When flooded to shallow depths during fall and retention of the captured rainfall is extended into late winter, agricultural fields provide maximum foraging habitat for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds. Agriculture fields are typically drained in preparation of spring planting, but retention of water into late winter will provide high quality food for wildlife during a time when it may otherwise be in low abundance.​


Practice:
E646136Z3 - Shorebird habitat, late season shallow water with manipulation to improve food sources

Scenario_Description:
​Suitable shorebird habitat is limited during the summer and fall as birds migrate south post-breeding and providing shallow water and mud flat habitat will benefit a variety of shorebird species. Optimal conditions are created when water levels are slowly reduced through evaporation, which allows for propagation of invertebrates (typically insect larvae) used as food by shorebirds. Manipulation of vegetation, preferably through rolling, creates open conditions required by this suite of birds as a means to detect and avoid predators, and provides nutrient inputs for invertebrate production.


Practice:
E646136Z4 - Shorebird habitat, extended late season shallow water with manipulation to improve food sources

Scenario_Description:
​When flooded to shallow depths during fall and retention of the captured rainfall is extended into late winter, the shallow water and mud flat habitat will benefit a variety of shorebird species. Optimal conditions are created when water levels are slowly reduced through evaporation, which allows for propagation of invertebrates (typically insect larvae) used as food by shorebirds. Agriculture fields are typically drained in preparation of spring planting, but retention of water into late winter will provide high quality food for wildlife during a time when it may otherwise be in low abundance. Manipulation of vegetation, preferably through rolling, creates open conditions required by this suite of birds as a means to detect and avoid predators, and provides nutrient inputs for invertebrate production.


Practice:
E646137X - Renovate small, shallow pothole and playa sites which may seasonally hold water

Scenario_Name:
Shallow water development and management

Scenario_Description:
Renovate small, shallow pothole and playa sites which may seasonally hold water.


Practice:
E646137Z1 - Close structures to capture and retain rainfall to improve cover and shelter for birds during winter

Scenario_Description:
​When flooded to shallow depths during fall and winter, agricultural fields provide ideal cover and shelter for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds.


Practice:
E646137Z2 - Extend retention of captured rainfall to provide enhanced cover and shelter for late winter habitat

Scenario_Description:
​When flooded to shallow depths during the fall and retained into late winter, agricultural fields provide maximum shelter and cover for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds. Agriculture fields are typically drained in preparation of spring planting, but retention of water into late winter will provide shelter and cover for waterfowl and shorebirds during a time when it may otherwise be in low abundance.


Practice:
E646137Z3 - Shorebird habitat, late season shallow water with manipulation to improve cover and shelter

Scenario_Description:
​Suitable shorebird habitat is limited during the summer and fall as birds migrate south post-breeding. Providing shallow water and mud flat habitat will benefit a variety of shorebird species. Improved conditions are created when water levels are slowly reduced through evaporation, which allows for propagation of invertebrates (typically insect larvae) used as food by shorebirds. Manipulation of vegetation, preferably through rolling, creates open conditions required by this suite of birds as a means to detect and avoid predators, and provides nutrient inputs for invertebrate production.


Practice:
E646137Z4 - Extended late season shallow water with manipulation to improve cover and shelter

Scenario_Name:
Extended late season shallow water-cover

Scenario_Description:
​Suitable shorebird habitat is limited during the summer and fall as birds migrate south post-breeding. Agriculture fields are typically drained in preparation of spring planting, but retention of water into late winter will provide shelter and cover for waterfowl and shorebirds during a time when it may otherwise be in low abundance. Optimal conditions are created when water levels are slowly reduced and manipulation of vegetation, preferably through rolling, creates open conditions required by this suite of birds as a means to detect and avoid predators, and provides nutrient inputs for invertebrate production.


Practice:
E646138Z1 - Close structures to capture and retain rainfall to provide water for birds during winter

Scenario_Description:
​When flooded to shallow depths during fall and winter, agricultural fields provide water essential for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds.


Practice:
E646138Z2 - Extend retention of captured rainfall to provide late winter water habitat

Scenario_Description:
​When flooded to shallow depths during fall and winter, agricultural fields provide water essential for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds. Agriculture fields are typically drained in preparation of spring planting, but retention of water into late winter will provide water for shorebirds and waterfowl during a time when it may otherwise be in low abundance.


Practice:
E646138Z3 - Shorebird habitat, late season shallow water with manipulation

Scenario_Description:
​Suitable water is limited during the summer and fall as birds migrate south post-breeding. Providing shallow water and mud flat habitat will benefit a variety of shorebird species. Improved conditions are created when water levels are slowly reduced through evaporation. Manipulation of vegetation, preferably through rolling, creates open water conditions required by this suite of birds as a means to detect and avoid predators, and provides nutrient inputs for invertebrate production.


Practice:
E646138Z4 - Shorebird habitat, extended late season shallow water with manipulation

Scenario_Description:
​Suitable water is limited during the summer and fall as birds migrate south post-breeding. Agriculture fields are typically drained in preparation of spring planting, but retention of water into late winter will provide habitat during a time when it may otherwise be in low abundance. Optimal conditions are created when water levels are slowly reduced and manipulation of vegetation, preferably through rolling, creates open water conditions required by this suite of birds as a means to detect and avoid predators, and provides nutrient inputs for invertebrate production.


Practice:
E646139Z1 - Close structures to capture and retain rainfall for birds to improve habitat continuity

Scenario_Description:
​When flooded to shallow depths during fall and winter, agricultural fields provide habitat for myriad species of migratory birds. Those flooded conditions promote a network or continuity of habitat that is available to migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds.


Practice:
E646139Z2 - Extend retention of captured rainfall to provide habitat continuity during late winter

Scenario_Description:
​When flooded to shallow depths during the fall and retained into late winter, agricultural fields provide habitat for myriad species of migratory birds. Agriculture fields are typically drained in preparation of spring planting, but retention of water into late winter will provide a network or continuity of habitat for waterfowl, wading birds, and shorebirds during a time when it may otherwise be in low abundance.


Practice:
E646139Z3 - Shorebird habitat, late season shallow water with manipulation to enhance habitat continuity


Practice:
E646139Z4 - Shorebird habitat, extended late season shallow water with manipulation - habitat continuity

Scenario_Description:
​Suitable water is limited during the summer and fall as birds migrate south post-breeding. Providing shallow water with manipulation of vegetation creates a network or continuity of habitat required by this suite of migratory birds during a time when it may otherwise be in low abundance.


Practice:
E647136Z1 - Manipulate vegetation on fields where rainfall is to be captured and retained-food

Scenario_Description:
​Harvested and idled agricultural lands, notably those occurring within rice rotations, contain high densities of residual (i.e., waste) grain and natural seeds following harvest. Seed densities in harvested rice fields may rival those documented in intensively managed moist-soil units. When flooded to shallow depths during fall and winter, these agricultural fields provide ideal foraging habitat for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds. In addition, flooded conditions promote establishment of aquatic invertebrate populations, thus providing protein-rich food sources for shorebirds as well as waterfowl and wading birds. In many cases, light manipulation of dense vegetation is needed to improve the accessibility of food resources to waterfowl, wading birds, and shorebirds.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional Habitat Development and Management

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional Habitat Development and Management


Practice:
E647136Z2 - Provide early successional habitat between first rice crop and ratoon crop-food

Scenario_Description:
​This enhancement is to encourage the establishment of early successional, naturally occurring vegetation in ditches, side slope and bank borders to provide cover, critical nesting and brood rearing habitat as well as filtering overland flow and improving water quality. Ditches perform the critical function of removing water from agricultural lands. Allowing naturally occurring vegetation to develop along ditches, including side slopes, banks and borders, will help provide food and cover for wildlife while enhancing aquatic habitat and improving water quality. Ditches and ditch borders provide a foundation that supports a diverse wildlife community including Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) and other birds preferring early successional cover. Rabbits, furbearers, amphibians and many other species that inhabit agriculture areas will use this vegetative cover. These areas can also provide critical nesting habitat for the Mottled Duck (Anas fulvigula).


Practice:
E647136Z3 - Establish and maintenance of moist soil vegetation on cropland edges to increase wildlife food

Scenario_Description:
​The wetter or more water saturated portions of cropland fields such as areas adjacent to field drains, have the potential to produce a significant amount of moist soil plants which are a tremendously valuable source of forage and cover for many waterfowl, shorebird and wading bird species, especially during a period of time when such plants may be limited. Under normal cropland production, the native vegetation is restricted on these sites through mechanical and/or chemical control. These maintained moist soil plants also will provide filtering and improve water quality.


Practice:
E647137Z1 - Manipulate vegetation on fields where rainfall is to be captured and retained-cover/shelter

Scenario_Description:
​This enhancement is to provide cover and shelter for wildlife by retaining some standing rice stubble and by encouraging the establishment of early successional, naturally occurring vegetation in fields post harvest. Allowing some standing rice stubble and naturally occurring vegetation to develop will help provide food and cover for wildlife while enhancing aquatic habitat and improving water quality.


Practice:
E647137Z2 - Establish and maintenance of moist soil vegetation on cropland edges to increase cover/shelter


Practice:
E647139Z1 - Establish/maintain habitat continuity, naturally occurring vegetation in ditches/ditch bank borders


Practice:
E647139Z2 - Provide early successional habitat between first rice crop and ratoon crop-continuity

Scenario_Description:
​Many declining suites of wildlife species rely on early successional habitats for at least part of their life cycle needs. Migratory shorebird species in particular rely on open, moist soil or shallowly flooded conditions for foraging and security. Rice farms support many migratory and resident water bird species. The first rice crop harvest often coincides with the arrival of early migrating shorebirds. This time of year is also the highest rainfall months. If standing rice stubble from the first crop is rolled to push above-ground stalks level with the soil surface, the first component of this type of habitat is met. When moisture is added to this situation, short-term habitat is available until the ratoon crop initiates growth to a height beyond that which would provide benefit to the early successional species.


Practice:
E666106Z1 - Implementing sustainable practices for pine straw raking

Scenario_Description:
?Adopts guidelines for sustaining soil quality and wildlife habitat on sites where pine straw raking is currently practiced. Raking and removal of pine needles (“pine straw”) provides valuable landscaping material but at a high cost to soil fertility, soil organic matter, wildlife habitat, and in some cases, soil compaction, soil erosion and water quality degradation. Straw removal also makes prescribed burning less feasible by removal of the fine fuels needed to carry frequent surface fires that maintain longleaf pine and its characteristic understory. This enhancement is most applicable to longleaf pine forestland because: (1) longleaf-dominated ecosystems with their characteristic suite of flora and fauna historically predominated in most places where pines are currently grown in the Southeast, and (2) longleaf is the favored species for pine straw operations.

Before:
Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After:
The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement


Practice:
E666106Z2 - Maintaining and improving forest soil quality

Scenario_Description:
?Adopts guidelines for maintaining and improving soil quality on sites where forest management activities are practiced. These guidelines will increase soil organic matter content, improve nutrient cycling, and increase infiltration and retention of precipitation. Avoiding soil compaction will allow for greater root development and tree growth, limit windthrow, and reduce drought stress. Increasing carbon storage on site will maintain the soil microbial community and provide wildlife benefits.


Practice:
E666107Z - Maintaining and improving forest soil quality by limiting compaction


Practice:
E666115Z1 - Converting loblolly and slash pine plantations to longleaf pine to retain soil moisture

Scenario_Description:
​Longleaf pine has greater wildlife habitat value, is more resistant to insects and disease, and is better able to withstand hurricane-force winds than other southern pines, particularly loblolly and slash pines. Because of rapid early growth, loblolly and slash pines have often been planted on soils and sites better suited to longleaf. Loblolly has a higher rate of evapotranspiration than longleaf and can deplete soil moisture. Loblolly and slash pine plantations can be converted to longleaf by clearcutting and planting seedlings but mature tree cover is then lost for 20 or more years. This enhancement will gradually convert an existing loblolly or slash pine plantation to longleaf while at the same time maintaining mature tree cover with the associated benefits of wildlife habitat and visual quality, and moderating effects on soil temperature, soil moisture and understory plants.


Practice:
E666115Z2 - Enhance development of the forest understory to improve site moisture

Scenario_Description:
?Forest stand improvement to manage the structure and composition of overstory and understory vegetation so that additional moisture is captured and filtered through the vegetation and soil. Managing the understory vegetation will increase available water to the plants, minimize run-off and erosion, and improve water quality.


Practice:
E666118Z - Enhance development of the forest understory to capture nutrients in surface water

Scenario_Description:
?Forest stand improvement to manage the structure and composition of overstory and understory vegetation so that additional moisture is captured and filtered through the vegetation and soil, thus minimizing nutrient movement in surface water. Managing the understory vegetation will increase available water to the plants, minimize run-off and erosion, and improve water quality.


Practice:
E666119Z - Enhance development of the forest understory to capture nutrients -ground water

Scenario_Description:
?Forest stand improvement to manage the structure and composition of overstory and understory vegetation so that additional moisture is captured and filtered through the vegetation and soil, thus minimizing nutrient loss through ground water. Managing the understory vegetation will increase available water to the plants, minimize run-off and erosion, and improve water quality.


Practice:
E666130Z - Increase on-site carbon storage

Scenario_Description:
Utilize forest management techniques to increase on-site carbon storage, including uneven-aged management, longer rotations, leave-tree retention, snags and down woody debris, and soil organic matter.


Practice:
E666132Z1 - Crop tree management for mast production

Scenario_Name:
Crop tree management for mast production

Scenario_Description:
Forest stand improvement using crop tree management techniques to increase mast production


Practice:
E666132Z2 - Reduce forest stand density to improve a degraded plant community

Scenario_Description:
?Open pine or conifer management reduces the number of trees per acre while still maintaining the stand as forest land. It restores elements of stand structure that were formerly created by fire on sites where it is not currently feasible to conduct prescribed burning at the intensity needed to open the canopy. The open stand condition allows a significant amount of sunlight to reach the forest floor and stimulate understory vegetation. The initial treatment creates a stand structure that allows prescribed burning to be applied to limit redevelopment of the woody component of the understory and maintain open conditions. The vegetation management, and wide spacing between trees or clumps of trees, provides visual appeal, reduces the risk of wildfire, and provides wildlife habitat for many at-risk and listed wildlife species.


Practice:
E666133X - Forest Stand Improvement to rehabilitate degraded hardwood stands

Scenario_Description:
?Mixed species hardwood stands have been subjected to poor logging practices (“high-grading”) for decades. Without professional forestry assistance the best species and individual trees are removed, often before maturity (“diameter-limit cutting”), leaving the poorest species and individual trees to regenerate the stand. Reversing this process requires cutting or killing poor quality trees while retaining any desirable species that might still be present. A combination of 3 silvicultural methods are applied: crop tree release, group selection (all trees removed from an area 0.25 to 1.0 acre in size) and small clear-cuts (all trees removed from an area 1-3 acres in size). A professional forester is needed to recognize and mark crop trees to be retained and delineate areas without crop trees to be clear-cut. Thinning and forest stand improvement will include cutting with hand tools (chainsaws) and injection. Costs involved in any commercial harvesting including marking, access, and transportation are not included in this scenario. However the costs involved in marking trees to be treated or left and supervising the TSI work is included.


Practice:
E666133Z1 - Creating structural diversity with patch openings

Scenario_Name:
Structural diversity with patch openings

Scenario_Description:
Forest stand improvement that creates patch openings. Size and shape of patches will be based on characteristic natural wind disturbances, which will vary geographically and by forest type.


Practice:
E666133Z2 - Converting loblolly and slash pine plantations to longleaf pine with FSI and prescribed burning

Scenario_Name:
Convert to longleaf pine-FSI and burning

Scenario_Description:
​Longleaf pine has greater wildlife habitat value, is more resistant to insects and disease, and is better able to withstand hurricane-force winds than other southern pines, particularly loblolly and slash pines. Because of rapid early growth, loblolly and slash pines have often been planted on soils and sites better suited to longleaf. Loblolly and slash pine plantations can be converted to longleaf by clearcutting and planting seedlings but mature tree cover is then lost for 20 or more years. This enhancement will gradually convert an existing loblolly or slash pine plantation to longleaf while at the same time maintaining mature tree cover with the associated benefits of wildlife habitat and visual quality, and moderating effects on soil temperature, soil moisture and understory plants.


Practice:
E666134Z - Enhance development of the forest understory to create conditions resistant to pests

Scenario_Description:
?Forest stand improvement that manages the structure and composition of overstory and understory vegetation to reduce vulnerability to damage by insects and diseases of forest trees. Managing the understory vegetation will also reduce the risk of wildfire, and promote development of herbaceous plants that benefit wildlife.


Practice:
E666135Z1 - Reduce height of the forest understory to limit wildfire risk

Scenario_Description:
?Forest stand improvement that manages forest structure to reduce the risk of wildfire, and creates conditions that facilitate prescribed burning. The fire risk reduction is accomplished by reducing the height of the woody understory and midstory, creating space between the ground cover and the tree canopy.


Practice:
E666135Z2 - Reduce forest density and manage understory along roads to limit wildfire risk

Scenario_Description:
​Opening the tree canopy along roads ("daylighting"), and providing space between ground vegetation and tree crowns, minimizes the spread of wildfires that often start along roads. Additionally, opening the canopy will allow more sunlight to reach the forest floor and promote flowering plants, and will reduce maintenance needs by allowing moisture to evaporate from roads.


Practice:
E666136Z1 - Reduce forest density and manage understory along roads to improve wildlife food sources

Scenario_Description:
​Opening the tree canopy along roads ("daylighting") allows more sunlight to reach the forest floor and promotes the growth of herbaceous plants. The resulting condition is more visually appealing for users of the roadway, and improves wildlife habitat and food sources for many wildlife species.


Practice:
E666136Z2 - Reduce forest stand density to improve wildlife food sources

Scenario_Description:
?Open pine or conifer management reduces the number of trees per acre while still maintaining the stand as forest land. It restores elements of wildlife habitat that formerly resulted from fire, on sites where it is not currently feasible to conduct prescribed burning. The open stand condition allows a significant amount of sunlight to reach the forest floor and stimulate understory vegetation. The initial treatment creates a stand structure that allows prescribed burning to be applied, where feasible, to limit redevelopment of the woody component of the understory and maintain open conditions. The vegetation management, and wide spacing between trees or clumps of trees, provides visual appeal, reduces the risk of wildfire, and provides wildlife habitat for many at-risk and listed wildlife species.


Practice:
E666136Z3 - Create patch openings to enhance wildlife food sources and availability

Scenario_Description:
?Forest stand improvement that creates patch openings. Size, shape, and arrangement of patches will be based on natural features, and emulate patches that would result from natural disturbance regimes of wind or fire, varying geographically and by forest type. The treatment will create diversity in stand composition and structure, and enhance wildlife food availability.


Practice:
E666137Z1 - Snags, den trees, and coarse woody debris for wildlife habitat

Scenario_Description:
Create and retain snags, den trees, forest stand structural diversity, and coarse woody debris on the forest floor to provide cover/shelter for native wildlife species.


Practice:
E666137Z2 - Summer roosting habitat for native forest-dwelling bat species

Scenario_Description:
Creates new potential roost trees within upland and riparian forests to achieve desired summer habitat for forest dwelling bat species.


Practice:
E666137Z3 - Increase diversity in pine plantation monocultures

Scenario_Description:
Creates small openings to provide diversity in pine plantations, which are typically monocultures and inhospitable to wildlife. Small openings are one-half (0.5) to three (3) acres in size. The cleared area will have the vegetation removed through harvesting, mulching, or other means compatible with the site.


Practice:
E666137Z4 - Converting loblolly and slash pine plantations to longleaf pine to enhance wildlife habitat


Practice:
E666137Z5 - Implementing sustainable practices for pine straw raking to enhance wildlife habitat


Practice:
E666137Z6 - Create patch openings to enhance wildlife cover and shelter

Scenario_Description:
?Forest stand improvement that creates patch openings. Size, shape, and arrangement of patches will be based on natural features, and emulate patches that would result from natural disturbance regimes of wind or fire, varying geographically and by forest type. The treatment will create diversity in stand composition and structure, and enhance the availability of wildlife food and cover.


Practice:
E666137Z7 - Enhance development of the forest understory to provide wildlife cover and shelter

Scenario_Description:
?Forest stand improvement that manages the structure and composition of overstory and understory vegetation to improve the quantity and quality of wildlife cover and shelter. Reducing the number of trees per acre provides canopy openings that allow sunlight to reach the forest floor and promote the growth of herbaceous plants, improving wildlife shelter and cover in the forest understory. The treatment also creates conditions that facilitate the use of prescribed burning as a follow-up practice to maintain wildlife shelter and cover.


