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APPENDIX C FERC PLANS AND PROCEDURES
APPENDIX C
FERC PLANS AND PROCEDURES
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WETLAND AND WATERBODY CONSTRUCTION ANDMITIGATION PROCEDURES
01/17/2003 VERSION
WETLAND AND WATERBODY CONSTRUCTION ANDMITIGATION PROCEDURES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. APPLICABILITY ............................................. 1
II. PRECONSTRUCTION FILING .................................... 2
III. ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTORS .................................. 3
IV. PRECONSTRUCTION PLANNING .................................. 3
V. WATERBODY CROSSINGS ....................................... 5A. NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES AND PERMITS .................. 5B. INSTALLATION ......................................... 6
1. Time Window for Construction .................... 62. Extra Work Areas ................................ 63. General Crossing Procedures ..................... 64. Spoil Pile Placement and Control ................ 75. Equipment Bridges ............................... 76. Dry-Ditch Crossing Methods ...................... 87. Crossings of Minor Waterbodies ................ 108. Crossings of Intermediate Waterbodies .......... 119. Crossings of Major Waterbodies ................. 1110. Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control ......... 1211. Trench Dewatering ............................. 12
C. RESTORATION ......................................... 13D. POST-CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE ....................... 14
VI. WETLAND CROSSINGS ........................................ 14A. GENERAL ............................................ 14B. INSTALLATION ........................................ 16
1. Extra Work Areas and Access Roads .............. 162. Crossing Procedures ............................ 173. Temporary Sediment Control .................... 194. Trench Dewatering ............................. 19
C. RESTORATION ......................................... 20D. POST-CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE ....................... 21
VII. HYDROSTATIC TESTING ...................................... 22A. NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES AND PERMITS ................. 22B. GENERAL ............................................. 22C. INTAKE SOURCE AND RATE .............................. 22D. DISCHARGE LOCATION, METHOD, AND RATE ................ 23
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WETLAND AND WATERBODY CONSTRUCTION AND MITIGATION PROCEDURES(PROCEDURES)
I. APPLICABILITY
A. The intent of these Procedures is to assist applicants byidentifying baseline mitigation measures for minimizingthe extent and duration of project-related disturbance onwetlands and waterbodies. The project sponsors shouldspecify in their applications for a FERC Certificate(Certificate) any individual measures in these Proceduresthey consider unnecessary, technically infeasible, orunsuitable due to local conditions and to fully describeany alternative measures they would use. Applicantsshould also explain how those alternative measures wouldachieve a comparable level of mitigation.
Once a project is certificated, further changes can beapproved. Any such changes from the measures in theseProcedures (or the applicant’s approved procedures) willbe approved by the Director of the Office of EnergyProjects (Director), upon the applicant’s writtenrequest, if the Director agrees that an alternativemeasure:
1. provides equal or better environmental protection;
2. is necessary because a portion of these Proceduresis infeasible or unworkable based on project-specific conditions; or
3. is specifically required in writing by anotherFederal, state, or Native American land managementagency for the portion of the project on its land orunder its jurisdiction.
Any requirements in these Procedures to file materialwith the Secretary of the FERC (Secretary) do not applyto projects undertaken under the provisions of theblanket certificate program. This exemption does notapply to a request for alternative measures.
Project-related impacts on non-wetland areas areaddressed in the staff’s Upland Erosion Control,Revegetation, and Maintenance Plan (Plan).
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B. DEFINITIONS
1. "Waterbody" includes any natural or artificialstream, river, or drainage with perceptible flow atthe time of crossing, and other permanentwaterbodies such as ponds and lakes:
a. "minor waterbody" includes all waterbodies lessthan or equal to 10 feet wide at the water'sedge at the time of crossing;
b. "intermediate waterbody" includes allwaterbodies greater than 10 feet wide but lessthan or equal to 100 feet wide at the water'sedge at the time of crossing; and
c. "major waterbody" includes all waterbodiesgreater than 100 feet wide at the water's edgeat the time of crossing.
2. "Wetland" includes any area that is not in activelycultivated or rotated cropland and that satisfiesthe requirements of the current Federal methodologyfor identifying and delineating wetlands.
II. PRECONSTRUCTION FILING
A. The following information shall be filed with theSecretary prior to the beginning of construction:
1. the hydrostatic testing information specified insection VII.B.3. and a wetland delineation report asdescribed in section VI.A.1., if applicable; and
2. a schedule identifying when trenching or blastingwould occur within each waterbody greater than 10feet wide, or within any designated coldwaterfishery. The project sponsor shall revise theschedule as necessary to provide FERC staff at least14 days advance notice. Changes within this last14-day period must provide for at least 48 hoursadvance notice.
B. The following site-specific construction plans requiredby these Procedures must be filed with the Secretary forthe review and written approval by the Director:
1. plans for extra work areas that would be closer than50 feet from a waterbody or wetland;
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2. plans for major waterbody crossings;
3. plans for the use of a construction right-of-waygreater than 75 feet wide in wetlands; and
4. plans for horizontal directional drill (HDD)"crossings" of wetlands or waterbodies.
III. ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTORS
A. At least one Environmental Inspector having knowledge ofthe wetland and waterbody conditions in the project areais required for each construction spread. The number andexperience of Environmental Inspectors assigned to eachconstruction spread should be appropriate for the lengthof the construction spread and the number/significance ofresources affected.
B. The Environmental Inspector's responsibilities areoutlined in the Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, andMaintenance Plan (Plan).
IV. PRECONSTRUCTION PLANNING
A. A copy of the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan(SWPPP) prepared for compliance with the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) NationalStormwater Program General Permit requirements must beavailable in the field on each construction spread. TheSWPPP shall contain Spill Prevention and ResponseProcedures that meet the requirements of state andFederal agencies.
1. It shall be the responsibility of the projectsponsor and its contractors to structure theiroperations in a manner that reduces the risk ofspills or the accidental exposure of fuels orhazardous materials to waterbodies or wetlands. Theproject sponsor and its contractors must, at aminimum, ensure that:
a. all employees handling fuels and otherhazardous materials are properly trained;
b. all equipment is in good operating order andinspected on a regular basis;
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c. fuel trucks transporting fuel to on-siteequipment travel only on approved access roads;
d. all equipment is parked overnight and/or fueledat least 100 feet from a waterbody or in anupland area at least 100 feet from a wetlandboundary. These activities can occur closeronly if the Environmental Inspector finds, inadvance, no reasonable alternative and theproject sponsor and its contractors have takenappropriate steps (including secondarycontainment structures) to prevent spills andprovide for prompt cleanup in the event of aspill;
e. hazardous materials, including chemicals,fuels, and lubricating oils, are not storedwithin 100 feet of a wetland, waterbody, ordesignated municipal watershed area, unless thelocation is designated for such use by anappropriate governmental authority. Thisapplies to storage of these materials and doesnot apply to normal operation or use ofequipment in these areas; and
f. concrete coating activities are not performedwithin 100 feet of a wetland or waterbodyboundary, unless the location is an existingindustrial site designated for such use.
2. The project sponsor and its contractors muststructure their operations in a manner that providesfor the prompt and effective cleanup of spills offuel and other hazardous materials. At a minimum,the project sponsor and its contractors must:
a. ensure that each construction crew (includingcleanup crews) has on hand sufficient suppliesof absorbent and barrier materials to allow therapid containment and recovery of spilledmaterials and knows the procedure for reportingspills;
b. ensure that each construction crew has on handsufficient tools and material to stop leaks;
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c. know the contact names and telephone numbersfor all local, state, and Federal agencies(including, if necessary, the U. S. Coast Guardand the National Response Center) that must benotified of a spill; and
d. follow the requirements of those agencies incleaning up the spill, in excavating anddisposing of soils or other materialscontaminated by a spill, and in collecting anddisposing of waste generated during spillcleanup.
B. AGENCY COORDINATION
The project sponsor must coordinate with the appropriatelocal, state, and Federal agencies as outlined in theseProcedures and in the Certificate.
V. WATERBODY CROSSINGS
A. NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES AND PERMITS
1. Apply to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), orits delegated agency, for the appropriate wetlandand waterbody crossing permits.
2. Provide written notification to authoritiesresponsible for potable surface water supply intakeslocated within 3 miles downstream of the crossing atleast 1 week before beginning work in the waterbody,or as otherwise specified by that authority.
3. Apply for state-issued waterbody crossing permitsand obtain individual or generic section 401 waterquality certification or waiver.
4. Notify appropriate state authorities at least 48hours before beginning trenching or blasting withinthe waterbody, or as specified in state permits.
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B. INSTALLATION
1. Time Window for Construction
Unless expressly permitted or further restricted bythe appropriate state agency in writing on a site-specific basis, instream work, except that requiredto install or remove equipment bridges, must occurduring the following time windows:
a. coldwater fisheries - June 1 through September30; and
b. coolwater and warmwater fisheries - June 1through November 30.
2. Extra Work Areas
a. Locate all extra work areas (such as stagingareas and additional spoil storage areas) atleast 50 feet away from water’s edge, except where the adjacent upland consists of activelycultivated or rotated cropland or otherdisturbed land.
b. The project sponsor shall file with theSecretary for review and written approval bythe Director, a site-specific construction planfor each extra work area with a less than 50-foot setback from the water's edge, (exceptwhere the adjacent upland consists of activelycultivated or rotated cropland or otherdisturbed land) and a site-specific explanationof the conditions that will not permit a 50-foot setback.
c. Limit clearing of vegetation between extra workareas and the edge of the waterbody to thecertificated construction right-of-way.
d. Limit the size of extra work areas to theminimum needed to construct the waterbodycrossing.
3. General Crossing Procedures
a. Comply with the COE, or its delegated agency,permit terms and conditions.
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b. Construct crossings as close to perpendicularto the axis of the waterbody channel asengineering and routing conditions permit.
c. If the pipeline parallels a waterbody, attemptto maintain at least 15 feet of undisturbedvegetation between the waterbody (and anyadjacent wetland) and the construction right-of-way.
d. Where waterbodies meander or have multiplechannels, route the pipeline to minimize thenumber of waterbody crossings.
e. Maintain adequate flow rates to protect aquaticlife, and prevent the interruption of existingdownstream uses.
f. Waterbody buffers (extra work area setbacks,refueling restrictions, etc.) must be clearlymarked in the field with signs and/or highlyvisible flagging until construction-relatedground disturbing activities are complete.
4. Spoil Pile Placement and Control
a. All spoil from minor and intermediate waterbodycrossings, and upland spoil from majorwaterbody crossings, must be placed in theconstruction right-of-way at least 10 feet fromthe water's edge or in additional extra workareas as described in section V.B.2.
b. Use sediment barriers to prevent the flow ofspoil or heavily silt-laden water into anywaterbody.
5. Equipment Bridges
a. Only clearing equipment and equipment necessaryfor installation of equipment bridges may crosswaterbodies prior to bridge installation. Limit the number of such crossings of eachwaterbody to one per piece of clearingequipment.
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b. Construct equipment bridges to maintainunrestricted flow and to prevent soil fromentering the waterbody. Examples of suchbridges include:
(1) equipment pads and culvert(s);(2) equipment pads or railroad car bridges
without culverts;(3) clean rock fill and culvert(s); and (4) flexi-float or portable bridges.
Additional options for equipment bridges may beutilized that achieve the performanceobjectives noted above. Do not use soil toconstruct or stabilize equipment bridges.
c. Design and maintain each equipment bridge towithstand and pass the highest flow expected tooccur while the bridge is in place. Alignculverts to prevent bank erosion or streambedscour. If necessary, install energydissipating devices downstream of the culverts.
d. Design and maintain equipment bridges toprevent soil from entering the waterbody.
e. Remove equipment bridges as soon as possibleafter permanent seeding unless the COE, or itsdelegated agency, authorizes it as a permanentbridge.
f. If there will be more than 1 month betweenfinal cleanup and the beginning of permanentseeding and reasonable alternative access tothe right-of-way is available, remove equipmentbridges as soon as possible after finalcleanup.
6. Dry-Ditch Crossing Methods
a. Unless approved otherwise by the appropriatestate agency, install the pipeline using one ofthe dry-ditch methods outlined below forcrossings of waterbodies up to 30 feet wide (atthe water's edge at the time of construction)that are state-designated as either coldwateror significant coolwater or warmwaterfisheries.
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b. Dam and Pump
(1) The dam-and-pump method may be usedwithout prior approval for crossings ofwaterbodies where pumps can adequatelytransfer streamflow volumes around thework area, and there are no concerns aboutsensitive species passage.
(2) Implementation of the dam-and-pumpcrossing method must meet the followingperformance criteria:
(i) use sufficient pumps, including on-site backup pumps, to maintaindownstream flows;
(ii) construct dams with materials thatprevent sediment and other pollutantsfrom entering the waterbody (e.g.,sandbags or clean gravel with plasticliner);
(iii) screen pump intakes; (iv) prevent streambed scour at pump
discharge; and(v) monitor the dam and pumps to ensure
proper operation throughout thewaterbody crossing.
c. Flume Crossing
The flume crossing method requiresimplementation of the following steps:
(1) install flume pipe after blasting (ifnecessary), but before any trenching;
(2) use sand bag or sand bag and plasticsheeting diversion structure or equivalentto develop an effective seal and to divertstream flow through the flume pipe (somemodifications to the stream bottom may berequired in to achieve an effective seal);
(3) properly align flume pipe(s) to preventbank erosion and streambed scour;
(4) do not remove flume pipe during trenching,pipelaying, or backfilling activities, orinitial streambed restoration efforts; and
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(5) remove all flume pipes and dams that arenot also part of the equipment bridge assoon as final cleanup of the stream bedand bank is complete.
d. Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD)
To the extent they were not provided as part ofthe pre-certification process, for eachwaterbody or wetland that would be crossedusing the HDD method, provide a plan thatincludes:
(1) site-specific construction diagrams thatshow the location of mud pits, pipeassembly areas, and all areas to bedisturbed or cleared for construction;
(2) a description of how an inadvertentrelease of drilling mud would be containedand cleaned up; and
(3) a contingency plan for crossing thewaterbody or wetland in the event thedirectional drill is unsuccessful and howthe abandoned drill hole would be sealed,if necessary.
7. Crossings of Minor Waterbodies
Where a dry-ditch crossing is not required, minorwaterbodies may be crossed using the open-cutcrossing method, with the following restrictions:
a. except for blasting and other rock breakingmeasures, complete instream constructionactivities (including trenching, pipeinstallation, backfill, and restoration of thestreambed contours) within 24 hours. Streambanks and unconsolidated streambeds mayrequire additional restoration after thisperiod;
b. limit use of equipment operating in thewaterbody to that needed to construct thecrossing; and
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c. equipment bridges are not required at minorwaterbodies that do not have a state-designatedfishery classification (e.g., agricultural orintermittent drainage ditches). However, if anequipment bridge is used it must be constructedas described in section V.B.5.
8. Crossings of Intermediate Waterbodies
Where a dry-ditch crossing is not required,intermediate waterbodies may be crossed using theopen-cut crossing method, with the followingrestrictions:
a. complete instream construction activities (notincluding blasting and other rock breakingmeasures) within 48 hours, unless site-specificconditions make completion within 48 hoursinfeasible;
b. limit use of equipment operating in thewaterbody to that needed to construct thecrossing; and
c. all other construction equipment must cross onan equipment bridge as specified in sectionV.B.5.
9. Crossings of Major Waterbodies
Before construction, the project sponsor shall filewith the Secretary for the review and writtenapproval by the Director a detailed, site-specificconstruction plan and scaled drawings identifyingall areas to be disturbed by construction for eachmajor waterbody crossing (the scaled drawings arenot required for any offshore portions of pipelineprojects). This plan should be developed inconsultation with the appropriate state and Federalagencies and should include extra work areas, spoilstorage areas, sediment control structures, etc., aswell as mitigation for navigational issues.
The Environmental Inspector may adjust the finalplacement of the erosion and sediment controlstructures in the field to maximize effectiveness.
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10. Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control
Install sediment barriers (as defined in sectionIV.F.2.a. of the Plan) immediately after initialdisturbance of the waterbody or adjacent upland. Sediment barriers must be properly maintainedthroughout construction and reinstalled as necessary(such as after backfilling of the trench) untilreplaced by permanent erosion controls orrestoration of adjacent upland areas is complete. Temporary erosion and sediment control measures areaddressed in more detail in the Plan; however, thefollowing specific measures must be implemented atstream crossings:
a. install sediment barriers across the entireconstruction right-of-way at all waterbodycrossings, where necessary to prevent the flowof sediments into the waterbody. In the travellane, these may consist of removable sedimentbarriers or driveable berms. Removablesediment barriers can be removed during theconstruction day, but must be re-installedafter construction has stopped for the dayand/or when heavy precipitation is imminent;
b. where waterbodies are adjacent to theconstruction right-of-way, install sedimentbarriers along the edge of the constructionright-of-way as necessary to contain spoil andsediment within the construction right-of-way;and
c. use trench plugs at all waterbody crossings, asnecessary, to prevent diversion of water intoupland portions of the pipeline trench and tokeep any accumulated trench water out of thewaterbody.
11. Trench Dewatering
Dewater the trench (either on or off theconstruction right-of-way) in a manner that does notcause erosion and does not result in heavily silt-laden water flowing into any waterbody. Remove thedewatering structures as soon as possible after thecompletion of dewatering activities.
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C. RESTORATION
1. Use clean gravel or native cobbles for the upper 1foot of trench backfill in all waterbodies thatcontain coldwater fisheries.
2. For open-cut crossings, stabilize waterbody banksand install temporary sediment barriers within 24hours of completing instream constructionactivities. For dry-ditch crossings, completestreambed and bank stabilization before returningflow to the waterbody channel.
3. Return all waterbody banks to preconstruction
contours or to a stable angle of repose as approvedby the Environmental Inspector.
4. Application of riprap for bank stabilization mustcomply with COE, or its delegated agency, permitterms and conditions.
5. Unless otherwise specified by state permit, limitthe use of riprap to areas where flow conditionspreclude effective vegetative stabilizationtechniques such as seeding and erosion controlfabric.
6. Revegetate disturbed riparian areas withconservation grasses and legumes or native plantspecies, preferably woody species.
7. Install a permanent slope breaker across theconstruction right-of-way at the base of slopesgreater than 5 percent that are less than 50 feetfrom the waterbody, or as needed to prevent sedimenttransport into the waterbody. In addition, installsediment barriers as outlined in the Plan.In some areas, with the approval of theEnvironmental Inspector, an earthen berm may besuitable as a sediment barrier adjacent to thewaterbody.
8. Sections V.C.3. through V.C.6. above also apply tothose perennial or intermittent streams not flowingat the time of construction.
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D. POST-CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE
1. Limit vegetation maintenance adjacent to waterbodiesto allow a riparian strip at least 25 feet wide, asmeasured from the waterbody's mean high water mark,to permanently revegetate with native plant speciesacross the entire construction right-of-way. However, to facilitate periodic pipelinecorrosion/leak surveys, a corridor centered on thepipeline and up to 10 feet wide may be maintained ina herbaceous state. In addition, trees that arelocated within 15 feet of the pipeline that aregreater than 15 feet in height may be cut andremoved from the permanent right-of-way.
2. Do not use herbicides or pesticides in or within 100feet of a waterbody except as allowed by theappropriate land management or state agency.
VI. WETLAND CROSSINGS
A. GENERAL
1. The project sponsor shall conduct a wetlanddelineation using the current Federal methodologyand file a wetland delineation report with theSecretary before construction. This report shallidentify:
a. by milepost all wetlands that would beaffected;
b. the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI)classification for each wetland;
c. the crossing length of each wetland in feet;and
d. the area of permanent and temporary disturbancethat would occur in each wetland by NWIclassification type.
The requirements outlined in this section do notapply to wetlands in actively cultivated or rotatedcropland. Standard upland protective measures,including workspace and topsoiling requirements,apply to these agricultural wetlands.
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2. Route the pipeline to avoid wetland areas to themaximum extent possible. If a wetland cannot beavoided or crossed by following an existing right-of-way, route the new pipeline in a manner thatminimizes disturbance to wetlands. Where looping anexisting pipeline, overlap the existing pipelineright-of-way with the new construction right-of-way. In addition, locate the loop line no more than 25feet away from the existing pipeline unless site-specific constraints would adversely affect thestability of the existing pipeline.
3. Limit the width of the construction right-of-way to75 feet or less. Prior written approval of theDirector is required where topographic conditions orsoil limitations require that the constructionright-of-way width within the boundaries of afederally delineated wetland be expanded beyond 75feet. Early in the planning process the projectsponsor is encouraged to identify site-specificareas where existing soils lack adequate unconfinedcompressive strength that would result inexcessively wide ditches and/or difficult to containspoil piles.
4. Wetland boundaries and buffers must be clearlymarked in the field with signs and/or highly visibleflagging until construction-related grounddisturbing activities are complete.
5. Implement the measures of sections V. and VI. in theevent a waterbody crossing is located within oradjacent to a wetland crossing. If all measures ofsections V. and VI. cannot be met, the projectsponsor must file with the Secretary a site-specificcrossing plan for review and written approval by theDirector before construction. This crossing planshall address at a minimum:
a. spoil control;
b. equipment bridges;
c. restoration of waterbody banks and wetlandhydrology;
d. timing of the waterbody crossing;
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e. method of crossing; and
f. size and location of all extra work areas.
6. Do not locate aboveground facilities in any wetland,except where the location of such facilities outsideof wetlands would prohibit compliance with U.S.Department of Transportation regulations.
B. INSTALLATION
1. Extra Work Areas and Access Roads
a. Locate all extra work areas (such as stagingareas and additional spoil storage areas) atleast 50 feet away from wetland boundaries,except where the adjacent upland consists ofactively cultivated or rotated cropland orother disturbed land.
b. The project sponsor shall file with theSecretary for review and written approval bythe Director, a site-specific construction planfor each extra work area with a less than 50-foot setback from wetland boundaries (exceptwhere adjacent upland consists of activelycultivated or rotated cropland or otherdisturbed land) and a site-specific explanationof the conditions that will not permit a 50-foot setback.
c. Limit clearing of vegetation between extra workareas and the edge of the wetland to thecertificated construction right-of-way.
d. The construction right-of-way may be used foraccess when the wetland soil is firm enough toavoid rutting or the construction right-of-wayhas been appropriately stabilized to avoidrutting (e.g., with timber riprap,prefabricated equipment mats, or terra mats).
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In wetlands that cannot be appropriatelystabilized, all construction equipment otherthan that needed to install the wetlandcrossing shall use access roads located inupland areas. Where access roads in uplandareas do not provide reasonable access, limitall other construction equipment to one passthrough the wetland using the constructionright-of-way.
e. The only access roads, other than theconstruction right-of-way, that can be used inwetlands without Director approval, are thoseexisting roads that can be used with nomodification and no impact on the wetland.
2. Crossing Procedures
a. Comply with COE, or its delegated agency,permit terms and conditions
b. Assemble the pipeline in an upland area unlessthe wetland is dry enough to adequately supportskids and pipe.
c. Use "push-pull" or "float" techniques to placethe pipe in the trench where water and othersite conditions allow.
d. Minimize the length of time that topsoil issegregated and the trench is open.
e. Limit construction equipment operating inwetland areas to that needed to clear theconstruction right-of-way, dig the trench,fabricate and install the pipeline, backfillthe trench, and restore the construction right-of-way.
f. Cut vegetation just aboveground level, leavingexisting root systems in place, and remove itfrom the wetland for disposal.
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g. Limit pulling of tree stumps and gradingactivities to directly over the trenchline. Donot grade or remove stumps or root systems fromthe rest of the construction right-of-way inwetlands unless the Chief Inspector andEnvironmental Inspector determine that safety-related construction constraints requiregrading or the removal of tree stumps fromunder the working side of the constructionright-of-way.
h. Segregate the top 1 foot of topsoil from thearea disturbed by trenching, except in areaswhere standing water is present or soils aresaturated or frozen. Immediately afterbackfilling is complete, restore the segregatedtopsoil to its original location.
i. Do not use rock, soil imported from outside thewetland, tree stumps, or brush riprap to support equipment on the construction right-of-way.
j. If standing water or saturated soils arepresent, or if construction equipment causesruts or mixing of the topsoil and subsoil inwetlands, use low-ground-weight constructionequipment, or operate normal equipment ontimber riprap, prefabricated equipment mats, orterra mats.
k. Do not cut trees outside of the approvedconstruction work area to obtain timber forriprap or equipment mats.
l. Attempt to use no more than two layers oftimber riprap to support equipment on theconstruction right-of-way.
m. Remove all project-related material used tosupport equipment on the construction right-of-way upon completion of construction.
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3. Temporary Sediment Control
Install sediment barriers (as defined in sectionIV.F.2.a. of the Plan) immediately after initialdisturbance of the wetland or adjacent upland. Sediment barriers must be properly maintainedthroughout construction and reinstalled as necessary(such as after backfilling of the trench). Exceptas noted below in section VI.B.3.c., maintainsediment barriers until replaced by permanenterosion controls or restoration of adjacent uplandareas is complete. Temporary erosion and sedimentcontrol measures are addressed in more detail in thePlan.
a. Install sediment barriers across the entireconstruction right-of-way at all wetlandcrossings where necessary to prevent sedimentflow into the wetland. In the travel lane,these may consist of removable sedimentbarriers or driveable berms. Removablesediment barriers can be removed during theconstruction day, but must be re-installedafter construction has stopped for the dayand/or when heavy precipitation is imminent
b. Where wetlands are adjacent to the constructionright-of-way and the right-of-way slopes towardthe wetland, install sediment barriers alongthe edge of the construction right-of-way asnecessary to prevent sediment flow into thewetland.
c. Install sediment barriers along the edge of theconstruction right-of-way as necessary tocontain spoil and sediment within theconstruction right-of-way through wetlands. Remove these sediment barriers during right-of-way cleanup.
4. Trench Dewatering
Dewater the trench (either on or off theconstruction right-of-way) in a manner that does notcause erosion and does not result in heavily silt-laden water flowing into any wetland. Remove thedewatering structures as soon as possible after thecompletion of dewatering activities.
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C. RESTORATION
1. Where the pipeline trench may drain a wetland,construct trench breakers and/or seal the trenchbottom as necessary to maintain the original wetlandhydrology.
2. For each wetland crossed, install a trench breakerat the base of slopes near the boundary between thewetland and adjacent upland areas. Install apermanent slope breaker across the constructionright-of-way at the base of a slopes greater than 5percent where the base of the slope is less than 50feet from the wetland, or as needed to preventsediment transport into the wetland. In addition,install sediment barriers as outlined in the Plan. In some areas, with the approval of theEnvironmental Inspector, an earthen berm may besuitable as a sediment barrier adjacent to thewetland.
3. Do not use fertilizer, lime, or mulch unlessrequired in writing by the appropriate landmanagement or state agency.
4. Consult with the appropriate land management orstate agency to develop a project-specific wetlandrestoration plan. The restoration plan shouldinclude measures for re-establishing herbaceousand/or woody species, controlling the invasion andspread of undesirable exotic species (e.g., purpleloosestrife and phragmites), and monitoring thesuccess of the revegetation and weed controlefforts. Provide this plan to the FERC staff uponrequest.
5. Until a project-specific wetland restoration plan isdeveloped and/or implemented, temporarily revegetatethe construction right-of-way with annual ryegrassat a rate of 40 pounds/acre (unless standing wateris present).
6. Ensure that all disturbed areas successfullyrevegetate with wetland herbaceous and/or woodyplant species.
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7. Remove temporary sediment barriers located at theboundary between wetland and adjacent upland areasafter upland revegetation and stabilization ofadjacent upland areas are judged to be successful asspecified in section VII.A.5. of the Plan.
D. POST-CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE
1. Do not conduct vegetation maintenance over the fullwidth of the permanent right-of-way in wetlands. However, to facilitate periodic pipelinecorrosion/leak surveys, a corridor centered on thepipeline and up to 10 feet wide may be maintained ina herbaceous state. In addition, trees within 15feet of the pipeline that are greater than 15 feetin height may be selectively cut and removed fromthe permanent right-of-way.
2. Do not use herbicides or pesticides in or within 100feet of a wetland, except as allowed by theappropriate land management agency or state agency.
3. Monitor and record the success of wetlandrevegetation annually for the first 3 years afterconstruction or until wetland revegetation issuccessful. At the end of 3 years afterconstruction, file a report with the Secretaryidentifying the status of the wetland revegetationefforts. Include the percent cover achieved andproblem areas (weed invasion issues, poorrevegetation, etc.). Continue to file a reportannually until wetland revegetation is successful.
4. Wetland revegetation shall be considered successfulif the cover of herbaceous and/or woody species isat least 80 percent of the type, density, anddistribution of the vegetation in adjacent wetlandareas that were not disturbed by construction. Ifrevegetation is not successful at the end of 3years, develop and implement (in consultation with aprofessional wetland ecologist) a remedialrevegetation plan to actively revegetate thewetland. Continue revegetation efforts untilwetland revegetation is successful.
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VII. HYDROSTATIC TESTING
A. NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES AND PERMITS
1. Apply for state-issued water withdrawal permits, asrequired.
2. Apply for National Pollutant Discharge EliminationSystem (NPDES) or state-issued discharge permits, asrequired.
3. Notify appropriate state agencies of intent to usespecific sources at least 48 hours before testingactivities unless they waive this requirement inwriting.
B. GENERAL
1. Perform non-destructive testing of all pipelinesection welds or hydrotest the pipeline sections,before installation under waterbodies or wetlands.
2. If pumps used for hydrostatic testing are within 100feet of any waterbody or wetland, address theoperation and refueling of these pumps in theproject’s Spill Prevention and Response Procedures.
3. The project sponsor shall file with the Secretarybefore construction a list identifying the locationof all waterbodies proposed for use as a hydrostatictest water source or discharge location.
C. INTAKE SOURCE AND RATE
1. Screen the intake hose to prevent entrainment offish.
2. Do not use state-designated exceptional valuewaters, waterbodies which provide habitat forfederally listed threatened or endangered species,or waterbodies designated as public water supplies,unless appropriate Federal, state, and/or localpermitting agencies grant written permission.
3. Maintain adequate flow rates to protect aquaticlife, provide for all waterbody uses, and providefor downstream withdrawals of water by existingusers.
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4. Locate hydrostatic test manifolds outside wetlandsand riparian areas to the maximum extentpracticable.
D. DISCHARGE LOCATION, METHOD, AND RATE
1. Regulate discharge rate, use energy dissipationdevice(s), and install sediment barriers, asnecessary, to prevent erosion, streambed scour,suspension of sediments, or excessive streamflow.
2. Do not discharge into state-designated exceptionalvalue waters, waterbodies which provide habitat forfederally listed threatened or endangered species,or waterbodies designated as public water supplies,unless appropriate Federal, state, and localpermitting agencies grant written permission.
01/17/2003 VERSION
UPLAND EROSION CONTROL, REVEGETATION, ANDMAINTENANCE PLAN
01/17/2003 VERSION
UPLAND EROSION CONTROL, REVEGETATION, ANDMAINTENANCE PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. APPLICABILITY ............................................. 1
II. SUPERVISION AND INSPECTION ................................ 2A. ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTION ............................. 2B. RESPONSIBILITIES OF ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTORS ......... 2
III. PRECONSTRUCTION PLANNING ................................. 4A. CONSTRUCTION WORK AREAS .............................. 4B. DRAIN TILE AND IRRIGATION SYSTEMS .................... 4C. GRAZING DEFERMENT .................................... 5D. ROAD CROSSINGS AND ACCESS POINTS ..................... 5E. DISPOSAL PLANNING .................................... 5F. AGENCY COORDINATION .................................. 5G. STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN ................. 5
IV. INSTALLATION .............................................. 6A. APPROVED AREAS OF DISTURBANCE ........................ 6B. TOPSOIL SEGREGATION .................................. 7C. DRAIN TILES .......................................... 7D. IRRIGATION ........................................... 8E. ROAD CROSSINGS AND ACCESS POINTS ..................... 8F. TEMPORARY EROSION CONTROL ............................ 8
1. Temporary Slope Breakers ........................ 82. Sediment Barriers ............................... 93. Mulch .......................................... 10
V. RESTORATION .............................................. 11A. CLEANUP ............................................. 11B. PERMANENT EROSION CONTROL DEVICES ................... 12
1. Trench Breakers ................................ 122. Permanent Slope Breakers ....................... 13
C. SOIL COMPACTION MITIGATION .......................... 13D. REVEGETATION ........................................ 14
1. General ........................................ 142. Soil Additives ................................ 143. Seeding Requirements ........................... 14
VI. OFF-ROAD VEHICLE CONTROL ................................. 16
VII. POST-CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ............................. 16A. MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE ......................... 16B. REPORTING ........................................... 17
1 01/17/2003 VERSION
UPLAND EROSION CONTROL, REVEGETATION, AND MAINTENANCE PLAN (PLAN)
I. APPLICABILITY
A. The intent of this Plan is to assist applicants byidentifying baseline mitigation measures for minimizingerosion and enhancing revegetation. The project sponsorsshould specify in their applications for a FERCCertificate (Certificate) any individual measures in thisPlan they consider unnecessary, technically infeasible,or unsuitable due to local conditions and to fullydescribe any alternative measures they would use. Applicants should also explain how those alternativemeasures would achieve a comparable level of mitigation.
Once a project is certificated, further changes can beapproved. Any such changes from the measures in thisPlan (or the applicant’s approved plan) will be approvedby the Director of the Office of Energy Projects(Director), upon the applicant’s written request, if theDirector agrees that an alternative measure:
1. provides equal or better environmental protection;
2. is necessary because a portion of this Plan isinfeasible or unworkable based on project-specificconditions; or
3. is specifically required in writing by anotherFederal, state, or Native American land managementagency for the portion of the project on its land orunder its jurisdiction.
Any requirements in this Plan to file material with theSecretary of the FERC (Secretary) do not apply toprojects undertaken under the provisions of the blanketcertificate program. This exemption does not apply to arequest for alternative measures.
Project-related impacts on wetland and waterbody systemsare addressed in the staff’s Wetland and WaterbodyConstruction and Mitigation Procedures (Procedures).
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II. SUPERVISION AND INSPECTION
A. ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTION
1. At least one Environmental Inspector is required foreach construction spread during construction andrestoration (as defined by section V). The numberand experience of Environmental Inspectors assignedto each construction spread should be appropriatefor the length of the construction spread and thenumber/significance of resources affected.
2. Environmental Inspectors shall have peer status withall other activity inspectors.
3. Environmental Inspectors shall have the authority tostop activities that violate the environmentalconditions of the Certificate, state and Federalenvironmental permit conditions, or landownerrequirements; and to order appropriate correctiveaction.
B. RESPONSIBILITIES OF ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTORS
At a minimum, the Environmental Inspector(s) shall beresponsible for:
1. Ensuring compliance with the requirements of thisPlan, the Procedures, the environmental conditionsof the Certificate authorization, the mitigationmeasures proposed by the applicant (as approvedand/or modified by the Certificate), otherenvironmental permits and approvals, andenvironmental requirements in landowner easementagreements;
2. Identifying, documenting, and overseeing correctiveactions, as necessary to bring an activity back intocompliance;
3. Verifying that the limits of authorized constructionwork areas and locations of access roads areproperly marked before clearing;
4. Verifying the location of signs and highly visibleflagging marking the boundaries of sensitiveresource areas, waterbodies, wetlands, or areas withspecial requirements along the construction workarea;
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5. Identifying erosion/sediment control and soilstabilization needs in all areas;
6. Ensuring that the location of dewatering structuresand slope breakers will not direct water into knowncultural resources sites or locations of sensitivespecies;
7. Verifying that trench dewatering activities do notresult in the deposition of sand, silt, and/orsediment near the point of discharge into a wetlandor waterbody. If such deposition is occurring, thedewatering activity shall be stopped and the designof the discharge shall be changed to preventreoccurrence;
8. Ensuring that subsoil and topsoil are tested inagricultural and residential areas to measurecompaction and determine the need for correctiveaction;
9. Advising the Chief Construction Inspector whenconditions (such as wet weather) make it advisableto restrict construction activities to avoidexcessive rutting;
10. Ensuring restoration of contours and topsoil;
11. Verifying that the soils imported for agriculturalor residential use have been certified as free ofnoxious weeds and soil pests, unless otherwiseapproved by the landowner;
12. Determining the need for and ensuring that erosioncontrols are properly installed, as necessary toprevent sediment flow into wetlands, waterbodies,sensitive areas, and onto roads;
13. Inspecting and ensuring the maintenance of temporaryerosion control measures at least:
a. on a daily basis in areas of activeconstruction or equipment operation;
b. on a weekly basis in areas with no constructionor equipment operation; and
c. within 24 hours of each 0.5 inch of rainfall;
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14. Ensuring the repair of all ineffective temporaryerosion control measures within 24 hours ofidentification;
15. Keeping records of compliance with the environmentalconditions of the FERC certificate, and themitigation measures proposed by the project sponsorin the application submitted to the FERC, and otherFederal or state environmental permits during activeconstruction and restoration; and
16. Identifying areas that should be given specialattention to ensure stabilization and restorationafter the construction phase.
III. PRECONSTRUCTION PLANNING
The project sponsor shall do the following beforeconstruction:
A. CONSTRUCTION WORK AREAS
1. Identify all construction work areas (e.g.,construction right-of-way, extra work space areas,pipe storage and contractor yards, borrow anddisposal areas, access roads, etc.) that would beneeded for safe construction. The project sponsormust ensure that appropriate cultural resources andbiological surveys have been conducted.
2. Project sponsors are encouraged to considerexpanding any required cultural resources andendangered species surveys in anticipation of theneed for activities outside of certificated workareas.
B. DRAIN TILE AND IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
1. Attempt to locate existing drain tiles andirrigation systems.
2. Contact landowners and local soil conservationauthorities to determine the locations of futuredrain tiles that are likely to be installed within 3years of the authorized construction.
3. Develop procedures for constructing through drain-tiled areas, maintaining irrigation systems duringconstruction, and repairing drain tiles andirrigation systems after construction.
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4. Engage qualified drain tile specialists, as neededto conduct or monitor repairs to drain tile systemsaffected by construction. Use drain tilespecialists from the project area, if available.
C. GRAZING DEFERMENT
Develop grazing deferment plans with willing landowners,grazing permittees, and land management agencies tominimize grazing disturbance of revegetation efforts.
D. ROAD CROSSINGS AND ACCESS POINTS
Plan for safe and accessible conditions at all roadwaycrossings and access points during construction andrestoration.
E. DISPOSAL PLANNING
Determine methods and locations for the disposal ofconstruction debris (e.g., timber, slash, mats, garbage,drilling fluids, excess rock, etc). Off-site disposal inother than commercially operated disposal locations issubject to compliance with all applicable survey,landowner permission, and mitigation requirements.
F. AGENCY COORDINATION
The project sponsor must coordinate with the appropriatelocal, state, and Federal agencies as outlined in thisPlan and in the Certificate.
1. Obtain written recommendations from the local soilconservation authorities or land management agenciesregarding permanent erosion control and revegetationspecifications.
2. Develop specific procedures in coordination with theappropriate agency to prevent the introduction orspread of noxious weeds and soil pests resultingfrom construction and restoration activities.
G. STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN
Make available on each construction spread the StormwaterPollution Prevention Plan prepared for compliance withthe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's NationalStormwater Program General Permit requirements.
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IV. INSTALLATION
A. APPROVED AREAS OF DISTURBANCE
1. Project-related ground disturbance shall be limitedto the construction right-of-way, extra work spaceareas, pipe storage yards, borrow and disposalareas, access roads, and other areas approved in theCertificate. Any project-related ground disturbingactivities outside these Certificated areas, exceptthose needed to comply with the Plan and Procedures(e.g., slope breakers, energy-dissipating devices,dewatering structures, drain tile system repairs)will require prior Director approval. Allconstruction or restoration activities outside ofthe Certificated areas are subject to all applicablesurvey and mitigation requirements.
2. The construction right-of-way width for a projectshall not exceed 75 feet or that described in theFERC application unless otherwise modified by aCertificate condition. However, in limited, non-wetland areas, this construction right-of-way widthmay be expanded by up to 25 feet without Directorapproval to accommodate full construction right-of-way topsoil segregation and to ensure safeconstruction where topographic conditions (such asside-slopes) or soil limitations require it. Twenty-five feet of extra construction right-of-waywidth may also be used in limited, non-wetland ornon-forested areas for truck turn-arounds where noreasonable alternative access exists.
Project use of these additional limited areas issubject to landowner approval and compliance withall applicable survey and mitigation requirements. When such additional areas are used, each one shouldbe identified and the need explained in the weeklyor biweekly construction reports to the FERC, ifrequired. The following material should be includedin the reports:
a. the location of each additional area by stationnumber and reference to a previously filedalignment sheet, or updated alignment sheetsshowing the additional areas;
b. identification of where the Commission'srecords contain evidence that the additionalareas were previously surveyed; and
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c. a statement that landowner approval has beenobtained and is available in project files.
Prior written approval of the Director is requiredwhen the Certificated construction right-of-waywidth would be expanded by more than 25 feet.
B. TOPSOIL SEGREGATION
1. Unless the landowner or land management agencyspecifically approves otherwise, prevent the mixingof topsoil with subsoil by stripping topsoil fromeither the full work area or from the trench andsubsoil storage area (ditch plus spoil side method)in:
a. actively cultivated or rotated croplands andpastures;
b. residential areas;
c. hayfields; and
d. other areas at the landowner's or land managingagency’s request.
2. In residential areas importation of topsoil is anacceptable alternative to topsoil segregation.
3. In deep soils (more than 12 inches of topsoil),segregate at least 12 inches of topsoil. In soilswith less than 12 inches of topsoil make everyeffort to segregate the entire topsoil layer.
4. Where topsoil segregation is required, maintainseparation of salvaged topsoil and subsoilthroughout all construction activities.
5. Segregated topsoil may not be used for padding thepipe.
C. DRAIN TILES
1. Mark locations of drain tiles damaged duringconstruction.
2. Probe all drainage tile systems within the area ofdisturbance to check for damage.
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3. Repair damaged drain tiles to their original orbetter condition. Do not use filter-covered draintiles unless the local soil conservation authoritiesand the landowner agree. Use qualified specialistsfor testing and repairs.
4. For new pipelines in areas where drain tiles existor are planned, ensure that the depth of cover overthe pipeline is sufficient to avoid interferencewith drain tile systems. For adjacent pipelineloops in agricultural areas, install the newpipeline with at least the same depth of cover asthe existing pipeline(s).
D. IRRIGATION
Maintain water flow in crop irrigation systems, unlessshutoff is coordinated with affected parties.
E. ROAD CROSSINGS AND ACCESS POINTS
1. Maintain safe and accessible conditions at all roadcrossings and access points during construction.
2. If crushed stone access pads are used in residentialor active agricultural areas, place the stone onsynthetic fabric to facilitate removal.
F. TEMPORARY EROSION CONTROL
Install temporary erosion controls immediately afterinitial disturbance of the soil. Temporary erosioncontrols must be properly maintained throughoutconstruction (on a daily basis) and reinstalled asnecessary (such as after backfilling of the trench) untilreplaced by permanent erosion controls or restoration iscomplete.
1. Temporary Slope Breakers
a. Temporary slope breakers are intended to reducerunoff velocity and divert water off theconstruction right-of-way. Temporary slopebreakers may be constructed of materials suchas soil, silt fence, staked hay or straw bales,or sand bags.
9 01/17/2003 VERSION
b. Install temporary slope breakers on alldisturbed areas, as necessary to avoidexcessive erosion. Temporary slope breakersmust be installed on slopes greater than 5percent where the base of the slope is lessthan 50 feet from waterbody, wetland, and roadcrossings at the following spacing (closerspacing should be used if necessary):
Slope (%) Spacing (feet)5 - 15 300
>15 - 30 200>30 100
c. Direct the outfall of each temporary slopebreaker to a stable, well vegetated area orconstruct an energy-dissipating device at theend of the slope breaker and off theconstruction right-of-way.
d. Position the outfall of each temporary slopebreaker to prevent sediment discharge intowetlands, waterbodies, or other sensitiveresources.
2. Sediment Barriers
a. Sediment barriers are intended to stop the flowof sediments and to prevent the deposition ofsediments into sensitive resources. They maybe constructed of materials such as silt fence,staked hay or straw bales, compacted earth(e.g., driveable berms across travelways), sandbags, or other appropriate materials.
b. At a minimum, install and maintain temporarysediment barriers across the entireconstruction right-of-way at the base of slopesgreater than 5 percent where the base of theslope is less than 50 feet from a waterbody,wetland, or road crossing until revegetation issuccessful as defined in this Plan. Leaveadequate room between the base of the slope andthe sediment barrier to accommodate ponding ofwater and sediment deposition.
10 01/17/2003 VERSION
c. Where wetlands or waterbodies are adjacent toand downslope of construction work areas,install sediment barriers along the edge ofthese areas, as necessary to prevent sedimentflow into the wetland or waterbody.
3. Mulch
a. Apply mulch on all slopes (except in activelycultivated cropland) concurrent with orimmediately after seeding, where necessary tostabilize the soil surface and to reduce windand water erosion. Spread mulch uniformly overthe area to cover at least 75 percent of theground surface at a rate of 2 tons/acre ofstraw or its equivalent, unless the local soilconservation authority, landowner, or landmanaging agency approves otherwise in writing.
b. Mulch can consist of weed-free straw or hay,wood fiber hydromulch, erosion control fabric,or some functional equivalent.
c. Mulch before seeding if:
(1) final grading and installation ofpermanent erosion control measures willnot be completed in an area within 20 daysafter the trench in that area isbackfilled (10 days in residential areas),as required in section V.A.1; or
(2) construction or restoration activity isinterrupted for extended periods, such aswhen seeding cannot be completed due toseeding period restrictions.
d. If mulching before seeding, increase mulchapplication on all slopes within 100 feet ofwaterbodies and wetlands to a rate of 3tons/acre of straw or equivalent.
e. If wood chips are used as mulch, do not usemore than 1 ton/acre and add the equivalent of11 lbs/acre available nitrogen (at least 50percent of which is slow release).
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f. Ensure that mulch is adequately anchored tominimize loss due to wind and water.
g. When anchoring with liquid mulch binders, userates recommended by the manufacturer. Do notuse liquid mulch binders within 100 feet ofwetlands or waterbodies.
h. Install erosion control fabric on waterbodybanks at the time of final bank recontouring. Anchor the erosion control fabric with staplesor other appropriate devices.
V. RESTORATION
A. CLEANUP
1. Commence cleanup operations immediately followingbackfill operations. Complete final grading,topsoil replacement, and installation of permanenterosion control structures within 20 days afterbackfilling the trench (10 days in residentialareas). If seasonal or other weather conditionsprevent compliance with these time frames, maintaintemporary erosion controls (temporary slope breakersand sediment barriers) until conditions allowcompletion of cleanup.
The project sponsor should file with the Secretaryfor the review and written approval of the Director,a winterization plan if construction will continueinto the winter season when conditions could delaysuccessful decompaction, topsoil replacement, orseeding until the following spring.
2. A travel lane may be left open temporarily to allowaccess by construction traffic if the temporaryerosion control structures are installed (asspecified in section IV.F.) and inspected andmaintained (as specified in sections II.B.12 through14). When access is no longer required, the travellane must be removed and the right-of-way restored.
3. Rock excavated from the trench may be used tobackfill the trench only to the top of the existingbedrock profile. Rock that is not returned to thetrench should be considered construction debris,unless approved for use as mulch or for some otheruse on the construction work areas by the landowneror land managing agency.
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4. Remove excess rock from at least the top 12 inchesof soil in all actively cultivated or rotatedcropland and pastures, hayfields, and residentialareas, as well as other areas at the landowner'srequest. The size, density, and distribution ofrock on the construction work area should be similarto adjacent areas not disturbed by construction. The landowner may approve other provisions inwriting.
5. Grade the construction right-of-way to restore pre-construction contours and leave the soil in theproper condition for planting.
6. Remove construction debris from all constructionwork areas unless the landowner or land managingagency approves otherwise.
7. Remove temporary sediment barriers when replaced bypermanent erosion control measures or whenrevegetation is successful.
B. PERMANENT EROSION CONTROL DEVICES
1. Trench Breakers
a. Trench breakers are intended to slow the flowof subsurface water along the trench. Trenchbreakers may be constructed of materials suchas sand bags or polyurethane foam. Do not usetopsoil in trench breakers.
b. An engineer or similarly qualified professionalshall determine the need for and spacing oftrench breakers. Otherwise, trench breakersshall be installed at the same spacing as andupslope of permanent slope breakers.
c. In agricultural fields and residential areaswhere slope breakers are not typicallyrequired, install trench breakers at the samespacing as if permanent slope breakers wererequired.
d. At a minimum, install a trench breaker at thebase of slopes greater than 5 percent where thebase of the slope is less than 50 feet from awaterbody or wetland and where needed to avoiddraining a waterbody or wetland.
13 01/17/2003 VERSION
2. Permanent Slope Breakers
a. Permanent slope breakers are intended to reducerunoff velocity, divert water off theconstruction right-of-way, and prevent sedimentdeposition into sensitive resources. Permanentslope breakers may be constructed of materialssuch as soil, sand bags, or some functionalequivalent.
b. Construct and maintain permanent slope breakersin all areas, except cultivated areas andlawns, using spacing recommendations obtainedfrom the local soil conservation authority orland managing agency.
In the absence of written recommendations, usethe following spacing unless closer spacing isnecessary to avoid excessive erosion on theconstruction right-of-way:
Slope (%) Spacing (feet)5 - 15 300
>15 - 30 200>30 100
c. Construct slope breakers to divert surface flowto a stable area without causing water to poolor erode behind the breaker. In the absence ofa stable area, construct appropriate energy-dissipating devices at the end of the breaker.
d. Slope breakers may extend slightly (about 4feet) beyond the edge of the constructionright-of-way to effectively drain water off thedisturbed area. Where slope breakers extendbeyond the edge of the construction right-of-way, they are subject to compliance with allapplicable survey requirements.
C. SOIL COMPACTION MITIGATION
1. Test topsoil and subsoil for compaction at regularintervals in agricultural and residential areasdisturbed by construction activities. Conduct testson the same soil type under similar moistureconditions in undisturbed areas to approximatepreconstruction conditions. Use penetrometers orother appropriate devices to conduct tests.
14 01/17/2003 VERSION
2. Plow severely compacted agricultural areas with aparaplow or other deep tillage implement. In areaswhere topsoil has been segregated, plow the subsoilbefore replacing the segregated topsoil.
Alternatively, make arrangements with the landownerto plant and plow under a "green manure" crop, suchas alfalfa, to decrease soil bulk density andimprove soil structure. If subsequent constructionand cleanup activities result in further compaction,conduct additional tilling.
3. Perform appropriate soil compaction mitigation inseverely compacted residential areas.
D. REVEGETATION
1. General
a. The project sponsor is responsible for ensuringsuccessful revegetation of soils disturbed byproject-related activities, except as noted insection V.D.1.b.
b. Restore all turf, ornamental shrubs, andspecialized landscaping in accordance with thelandowner's request, or compensate thelandowner. Restoration work must be performedby personnel familiar with local horticulturaland turf establishment practices.
2. Soil Additives
Fertilize and add soil pH modifiers in accordancewith written recommendations obtained from the localsoil conservation authority, land managementagencies, or landowner. Incorporate recommendedsoil pH modifier and fertilizer into the top 2inches of soil as soon as possible afterapplication.
3. Seeding Requirements
a. Prepare a seedbed in disturbed areas to a depthof 3 to 4 inches using appropriate equipment toprovide a firm seedbed. When hydroseeding,scarify the seedbed to facilitate lodging andgermination of seed.
15 01/17/2003 VERSION
b. Seed disturbed areas in accordance with writtenrecommendations for seed mixes, rates, anddates obtained from the local soil conservationauthority or as requested by the landowner orland management agency. Seeding is notrequired in actively cultivated croplandsunless requested by the landowner.
c. Perform seeding of permanent vegetation withinthe recommended seeding dates. If seedingcannot be done within those dates, useappropriate temporary erosion control measuresdiscussed in section IV.F. and perform seedingof permanent vegetation at the beginning of thenext recommended seeding season. Lawns may beseeded on a schedule established with thelandowner.
d. In the absence of written recommendations fromthe local soil conservation authorities, seedall disturbed soils within 6 working days offinal grading, weather and soil conditionspermitting, subject to the specifications insection V.D.3.a-c.
e. Base seeding rates on Pure Live Seed. Use seedwithin 12 months of seed testing.
f. Treat legume seed with an inoculant specific tothe species using the manufacturer’srecommended rate of inoculant appropriate forthe seeding method (broadcast, drill, orhydro).
g. In the absence of written recommendations fromthe local soil conservation authorities,landowner, or land managing agency to thecontrary, a seed drill equipped with acultipacker is preferred for seed application.
Broadcast or hydroseeding can be used in lieuof drilling at double the recommended seedingrates. Where seed is broadcast, firm theseedbed with a cultipacker or imprinter afterseeding. In rocky soils or where siteconditions may limit the effectiveness of thisequipment, other alternatives may beappropriate (e.g., use of a chain drag) tolightly cover seed after application, asapproved by the Environmental Inspector.
16 01/17/2003 VERSION
VI. OFF-ROAD VEHICLE CONTROL
To each owner or manager of forested lands offer to installand maintain measures to control unauthorized vehicle accessto the right-of-way. These measures may include:
A. Signs;
B. Fences with locking gates;
C. Slash and timber barriers, pipe barriers, or a line ofboulders across the right-of-way; and
D. Conifers or other appropriate trees or shrubs across theright-of-way.
VII. POST-CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES
A. MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE
1. Conduct follow-up inspections of all disturbed areasafter the first and second growing seasons todetermine the success of revegetation.
2. Revegetation in non-agricultural areas shall beconsidered successful if upon visual survey thedensity and cover of non-nuisance vegetation aresimilar in density and cover to adjacent undisturbedlands. In agricultural areas, revegetation shall beconsidered successful if crop yields are similar toadjacent undisturbed portions of the same field.
Continue revegetation efforts until revegetation issuccessful.
3. Monitor and correct problems with drainage andirrigation systems resulting from pipelineconstruction in active agricultural areas untilrestoration is successful.
4. Restoration shall be considered successful if theright-of-way surface condition is similar toadjacent undisturbed lands, construction debris isremoved (unless requested otherwise by the landowner or land managing agency), revegetation issuccessful, and proper drainage has been restored.
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5. Routine vegetation maintenance clearing shall not bedone more frequently than every 3 years. However, tofacilitate periodic corrosion and leak surveys, acorridor not exceeding 10 feet in width centered onthe pipeline may be maintained annually in aherbaceous state. In no case shall routinevegetation maintenance clearing occur between April15 and August 1 of any year.
6. Efforts to control unauthorized off-road vehicleuse, in cooperation with the landowner, shallcontinue throughout the life of the project.Maintain signs, gates, and vehicle trails asnecessary.
B. REPORTING
1. The project sponsor shall maintain records thatidentify by milepost:
a. method of application, application rate, andtype of fertilizer, pH modifying agent, seed,and mulch used;
b. acreage treated;
c. dates of backfilling and seeding;
d. names of landowners requesting special seedingtreatment and a description of the follow-upactions; and
e. any problem areas and how they were addressed.
2. The project sponsor shall file with the Secretaryquarterly activity reports documenting problems,including those identified by the landowner, andcorrective actions taken for at least 2 yearsfollowing construction.
