arapaho and roosevelt national forest and pawnee...

ARP Oil and Gas Leasing Analysis

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Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest and Pawnee National Grassland

Oil and Gas Leasing Analysis

Range, Noxious Weeds and Rare Plants Specialist Report

Prepared By: Randy Reichert, Range Staff

Pawnee National Grassland


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Date: July 25, 2014


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Table of Contents

1. Introduction………………………………………………………………….3

a. Analysis Approach…………………………………………………....3

2. Range ………………………………………………………………………..3

a. Affected Environment………………………………………………...3

b. Existing Conditions…………………………………………………...4

c. How Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Impacts on Range

were Considered……………………………………………………..31

d. Indirect Effects………………………………………………………32

e. Indirect Impacts Common to All Alternatives on Range……………33

f. Cumulative Impacts Common to All Alternatives on Range………..34

3. Noxious Weeds……………………………………………………………..34

a. Introduction………………………………………………………….34

i. How the Analysis was Approached………………………… 34

ii. Current Management Direction……………………....………35

b. Affected Environment………………………………………………..36

c. Existing Conditions…………………………………………………..39

d. How Indirect Effects and Cumulative Impacts by Noxious Weeds

were Considered……………………………………………………...41

e. Indirect Effects……………………………………………………….41

f. Indirect Impacts Common to All Alternatives on Noxious Weeds…..41

g. Cumulative Effects…………………………………………………...42

4. Rare Plants…………………………………………………………………...42 a. Introduction……………………………………………………….......42 b. Affected Environment……………………………………………...…43

c. Exiting Conditions……………………………………………………43

i. Pre-field review……………………………………………….44

ii. Species considered and evaluated as Botany Components…...44

d. Indirect Effects and Cumulative Impacts on Rare Plants…………….51

i. Indirect Effects Common to All Alternatives on Sensitive

Species Plants…………………………………………………52

ii. Cumulative Impacts……………………………………………54

iii. Mitigations……………………………………………………..54

e. Summary of Effects for Range, Noxious Weeds and Botany……....…54

i. Summary of Mitigations……………………………………….55


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Introduction

Range/Botany/Noxious weeds: How the Analysis was approached This analysis was approached from the standpoint of identifying potential impacts resulting from the

proposed leasing decisions and necessary stipulations, and to ensure conformance to the Forest Plan in

regards to effects from oil and gas leasing and future development to Range Resources. Livestock

grazing on the Pawnee National Grassland (PNG) is authorized in the 1997 Revised Forest Plan.

For future site specific development proposals, range would be discussed at the site-specific

environmental analysis phase. The location of well pads and roads will not be determined as a result of

the leasing revision, but will be fully discussed at the project level of analysis. For oil and gas

developmental activities, the protections or mitigation are then attached to APD as Conditions of

Approval. No alternatives specifically propose the exploration or development of oil and gas

resources. Therefore the leasing analysis relies on a Reasonably Foreseeable Development Scenario

(RFDS), which projects future potential surface disturbing activities. Total disturbance acreage for the

RFDS was estimated at 960 acres. The 960 acres of disturbance determination was drawn from the

table of acreages that includes FS surface acreage with private mineral holdings so they weren’t

considered separately since development of wells and supporting infrastructure will occur at the same

density as on the PNG federal acreage. Besides the PNG lands with private mineral rights, the other

acreage considered was the currently leased acreage (43,444 acres). That acreage represents

approximately 20% of the Total of all NFS Lands which is 192,804 acres. Therefore impacts will

only be considerably smaller and current existing oil and gas production has had insignificant impact

on the range and botany resources or noxious weed infestations.

Range

Affected Environment

With the exception of a few riparian areas the PNG can best be considered as blue grama/buffalograss

sod with cool season remnants plant community as described by the Natural Resource Conservation

Service in their ecological site descriptions. Blue grama and buffalograss are abundant, dominate the

community, and frequently take on a sod appearance. Other key species are green needlegrass, western

wheatgrass, American vetch, fourwing saltbush and winterfat. Sand dropseed, red threeawn, sixweeks

fescue, plains pricklypear, hairy goldaster and bottlebrush squirreltail are also present.

Total annual bioproduction can vary from 200 to 900 pounds of air-dry vegetation per acre and will

average 700 pounds per acre annually.


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Domestic livestock grazing is a historical use on the Pawnee National Grassland (PNG) rangelands. All

of the PNG’s 192,804 acres of FS lands are permitted for grazing except for the Briggsdale

Campground and the FS Work Center, which represent very small acreages. Approximately 39,000

acres of private and state land lie within the boundaries of the PNG grazing allotments. Grazing is

managed under the term grazing permit system. Term Grazing Permits, known as grazing agreements,

have been issued to two grazing associations, the Crow Valley Livestock Cooperative, Inc. (CVLCI)

and the Pawnee Cooperative Grazing Association (PCGA). Individual ranchers in the area have been

issued direct term permits on 16 grazing allotments, which are largely isolated, small tracts of FS

lands contained within the ranching operations. Grazing Allotments are grazing units of public land

with an assigned livestock carrying capacity. The CVLCI is permitted on 53 allotments and the PCGA

is permitted on 79 allotments. The term grazing permits are issued to the two associations and

individual ranchers based on carrying capacity, measured in Animal Unit Months (AUMs), for the

allotments they are assigned. Carrying capacities are determined by estimating the average annual

forage production for the ecological sites that exist within an allotment and calculating the number of

animals that forage will support over a grazing season. Those numbers are based on a good to excellent

range condition rating. The formulas used to calculate carrying capacity include a residual forage

factor that accounts for other faunal users of the range, typically 50-60% of annual forage production.

Existing Condition

Range existing condition was extracted from the current Allotment Management Plans, Pawnee

Cooperative Grazing Association Unit, and Crow Valley Livestock Cooperative, Inc. Unit. Oil and gas

industry effects to date have had no significant impacts to Resource Components because of the low

percentage of the PNG total acreage utilized for oil and gas development.

Table 1: Existing Conditions for PNG Summer Grazing Allotments Administered by the CVLCI Allotment Name Range Condition

Allenbaw Existing Condition: Consists of approximately 3045 acres, of which 560 acres is private land. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under CVLCI credit agreement. The main ecological site in the allotment is Loamy, 1851 acres, with small acreages of the Clayey (31 acres), Sandy (805 acres), Gravel Breaks (265 acres) and Overflow (82 acres) ecological sites also present. The Allenbaw has been managed as a season long grazing system. An ephemeral stream, Coal Creek, runs north-south through sections 2 and 11. The main plant community is a blue grama/buffalograss dominated grassland. There are remnants of cool-season grasses, western wheatgrass and needle-and-thread grass, and two areas of planted crested wheatgrass within the allotment. The crested wheatgrass will be replaced gradually by native grasses. Prickly pear cactus is present in relatively high abundance.

Bow Existing Condition: There are 1,999 acres of federal land and 441 acres of state land in the Bow Allotment. The loamy ecological site is the main ecological site (1,748 acres) with 315 acres of overflow and gravel breaks sites along the Willow Creek running northwest to southeast on the northeast side of the allotment.


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The bulk of those sites are located on state land. There is a shaly ecological site of approximately 300 acres in the center of the allotment. Willow Creek flows intermittently but has potholes that contain water year-round. Except for the riparian creek bottom, the allotment plant community is dominated by blue grama with patches of buffalograss and isolated pockets of western wheatgrass or green needlegrass located in scattered small swales. There are a few small shrubs and a forb suite comparable to the one listed for the loamy ecological site present.

Carroll Existing Condition: Has a total of 1,595 acres of which 1,275 acres are federal and 320 acres are state-owned (Appendix A). The state acreage is leased by CVLCI for grazing. The allotment has four main ecological sites: Loamy (1,209 acres), Clayey (282 acres), Sandy (64 acres), and Shaley (40 acres). There are no significant creeks in this allotment. The grazing management system has been continuous, season-long. While blue grama and buffalograss are the dominant grass species, fourwing saltbush is present in this allotment. Portions of this allotment were farmed in the past and have had crested wheatgrass planted. The crested wheatgrass is declining, being replaced by native plants, both forbs and grasses. Western wheatgrass is present in a good percentage – up to 20-30% frequency in localized areas. Some needle-and-thread grass is present. Red three-awn and bottlebrush squirreltail grasses are present but are used little as forage. The dominant grass is blue grama. Fourwing saltbush is present in the drainage lows and large swales.

Center Existing Condition: Has 7,061 acres of which 6,421 acres are federal and 640 acres are state. 5,826 acres are in a Loamy ecological site, with much smaller acreages in other ecological sites: Clayey (87 acres), Gravel Breaks (305 acres), Overflow (105 acres), Sandstone Breaks (10 acres), Shallow Siltstone (183 acres), and Badlands (5 acres). Geary Creek flows ephemerally through the northeast corner of this allotment; other drainages are just shallow, rolling drainages that only flow during high precipitation events, heavy rain or snow melt. The allotment contains largely a bluegrama/buffalograss dominated plant community except along Geary Creek where taller grasses and some trees exist. There are also patches scattered across the allotment that contain higher percentages of cool season grasses, particularly western wheatgrass. Yucca occupies some of the drier ridges. There are some isolated concentrations of broom snakeweed. There are large areas of dense prickly pear cactus.

Coal Existing Condition: Consists of approximately 4,432 acres including the Crow Allotment. The Crow Allotment, which is 320 acres in the west half of section 18, T8N, R63W, will be incorporated into the Coal Allotment as the Crow Pasture. 3,856 acres are classified as a Loamy Ecological Site. Other ecological site classifications include: clayey (84 acres), sandy (43 acres), gravel breaks (148 acres), overflow (69 acres), shaley (109 acres), and sandstone breaks (123 acres). Two creeks, Coal Creek and Wildhorse Creek, are ephemeral streams that run through the allotment. Coal Creek enters the allotment on the west side of Section 11 and flows southward exiting the allotment in the SW ¼ of Section 14. Wildhorse Creek enters the allotment in the NE corner of Section 11 and joins


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Coal Creek in the SE ¼ of Section 14. A permanent transect was read in 1957, 1962, 1967 and 2004. The transect is located on the edge of an unoccupied prairie dog town. There is no indication as to when the prairie dog town was originally occupied. The transect readings, which are stored in the 2,210 allotment files at the PNG District Office, show the allotment has a blue grama/buffalograss dominated plant community with a cool season grass remnant and contains a shrub component at that site. Visual observation determined that the majority of the allotment has that type of plant community. Fourwing saltbush occurs across at least half of the allotment. There is only a minor presence of western wheatgrass and no needle grasses. Other less desirable grasses present are sixweeks fescue and red threeawn, neither of which exceeds normal composition ranges. The biodiversity was low with only 13 of a potential 48 species of all life forms listed in the NRCS Loamy Ecological Site Description present. Some may not have been present on the transect site, but may still appear in the allotment.

East Willow Existing Condition: Has a total of 4,440 acres of which 2,833 acres are federal land, 281 acres are private land and 316 acres are state land. Of that acreage, 3,382 acres are Loamy Ecological Sites, 390 acres are Clayey Ecological Sites, 188 acres are a Sandy Ecological Site, 42 acres are in Gravel Breaks, 274 acres are Overflow Ecological Site, 69 acres are Shaley Ecological Sites, and 95 acres are Limestone Breaks. No major creeks flow through this allotment, but the watersheds drain into Geary Creek, which flows north to south adjacent to the eastern boundary of the allotment. Several playa lakes exist on the allotment, some up to 40-60 acres in size. The present plant community is blue grama/ buffalograss dominated with a few cool season grass remnants. Very few shrubs exist and the blue grama is frequently sod-bound. There is only a minor presence of western wheatgrass and needlegrass. Other less desirable grasses present are sixweeks fescue and red threeawn. A variety of forbs are present, dominated by scarlet globemallow.

Elliott Existing Condition: Has approximately 5,359 acres of which 3999 acres are (75%) Loamy Ecological Sites. The remaining 25% of the acreage contains the ecological sites: Clayey (515 acres), Sandy (520 acres), Gravel Breaks (165 acres), Shaley (105 acres), and Overflow (55 acres). The ephemeral Little Sand Creek flows across section 16 in the southwestern portion of the allotment. There are normally several potholes with freestanding water in the creek bottom year-round. Sand Creek, another ephemeral stream flows from the north through Section 33, through the southwest corner of Section 34, and through the eastern half of Section 3. 800 acres are private and state land managed under a Credit Agreement between CVCLI and the private land owner. The plant community that accounts for over 90 percent of the area within the allotment is blue grama/buffalograss dominated. Localized patches containing western wheatgrass and needlegrass exist. Common forbs are scarlet globemallow, a variety of asters, vetches and coneflowers. Some areas have dense concentrations of prickly pear, particularly north of the Elliott Windmill in Section 4. Some remnant crested wheatgrass, which was seeded, is left in Sections 3 and 17. Yucca occupies “dry site” locations, typically on ridges with soils that are gravelly and sandy. Shrubs or woody plant species include broom


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snakeweed, winterfat and fourwing saltbush that is prevalent in Sections 33, 34, 3, and 2.

Erickson Existing Condition: Consists of 400 federal acres. 334 acres are classified as a Loamy Ecological Site and 66 acres are classified as a Sandy Ecological Site. The upper reach of Wild Horse Creek, an ephemeral stream, flows through the northeast corner of the allotment from northwest to southeast. The dominant grass species is blue grama with subdominants of buffalograss, western wheatgrass, and needle-and-thread grass. The area was reseeded with crested wheatgrass in the 1930’s or 1940’s and there still are stands remaining even though the native species are returning to dominance. Prickly pear is present in abundances greater than expected for a blue grama dominated site. Bare ground is a slightly higher percentage than would be expected for a blue grama dominated plant community as well. A variety of forbs and some less-desirable grasses, including red threeawn and six weeks fescue, are present within percentage parameters set for the ecological sites on the allotment.

Geary Existing Condition: Consists of 5,124 acres of which 3,564 acres are federal land and 1,560 acres are private and state owned. The private land is used for grazing in the allotment under an Exchange of Use Agreement with CVLCI and the private landowner. The largest ecological site is the Loamy Site (4611 acres). There is a Salt Flat Site in the northeast corner of the allotment (140 acres). There are approximately 250 acres of Overflow Site, the majority of which is located on private and state land in the southwest portion of the allotment, and only very small acreages of Clayey, Sandy, Gravel Breaks, and Shaley Ecological within the allotment boundaries. 960 re-seeded acres have remnants of crested wheatgrass planted following the Dust Bowl years. Geary Creek, an ephemeral stream, flows northwest to southeast along the western side of the allotment. The present plant community is blue grama/ buffalograss dominated with a few cool season grass remnants. Very few shrubs exist, fourwing saltbush or winterfat, and the blue grama is frequently sod-bound. There is only a minor presence of western wheatgrass and needlegrass. Other less desirable grasses present are sixweeks fescue, bottlebrush squirreltail, sand dropseed, ring muhly, and red threeawn. Some scattered remnants of planted crested wheatgrass still exist from the earlier re-seeding. Common forbs are scarlet globemallow, a variety of asters, astragalus species, dotted gayfeather, fringed sagewort (woody forb), slimflower scurfpea, thistle species, and western ragweed.

Gunn Existing Condition: Consists of 3,720 acres; 3,080 acres are federal land and 640 acres are state land. Ecological Sites are: Loamy (2,696 acres), Clayey (145 acres), Sandy (671 acres), Gravel Breaks (140 acres), Overflow (23 acres), Shaley (20 acres), and Sands (15 acres). Coal Creek, an ephemeral stream, flows through the allotment from the northwest in section 35 to the southeast in section 12. Several smaller watersheds drain into Coal Creek within the allotment boundaries. The Gunn is dominated by blue grama and buffalograss with the western half of the allotment containing a higher than normal percentage of red threeawn. Other grasses are western wheatgrass and needle-and-thread grass. Prickly pear has a relatively high abundance on some areas, notably in the east and southwest


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areas of the allotment. The southern end has remnants of crested wheatgrass, a reseed project following the Dust Bowl of the 1930’s. Some of the sandier sites, especially ridge tops and slopes, are occupied by yucca.

Halter Existing Condition: There are 4,345 acres in the Halter, of which 3,945 acres are federal land, 320 acres are private land, and 80 acres are state land. The largest ecological site is the Loamy site (3,259 acres). The Sandy and Gravel Breaks sites have 529 acres and 303 acres respectively. Other sites in the allotment with much smaller acreages are Clayey (18 acres), Shaley (54 acres), Sands (155 acres), and Sandy Bottomland (27 acres). A major ephemeral stream, Coal Creek, flows north to south through sections 23 and 26. All other drainages are less developed. There is a playa lake on the state acreage in the NW1/4 of Section 24. A permanent transect was read in 2004 which showed a dominance of blue grama and buffalograss on a Loamy site. Other grasses present were sedge, red threeawn and needle-and-thread grass. Scarlet globe mallow and cactus were the dominant forbs, but subordinate in percentage to the blue grama and buffalograss. Six-point ground cover data showed 22% bare ground, 30% basal vegetation, and 48% litter. Visual inspections showed a similar plant community in other areas of the allotment, though percentages vary amongst the species. Some areas contain higher than normal percentages of cactus. Patches containing a more dominant cool season grass component of needle-and-thread grass and western wheat grass are scattered across the allotment. In the east end of the allotment there is a well-developed fourwing saltbush component of the plant community.

Headquarters and South Murphy (S. Murphy has been

added to the Murphy Allotment

Existing Condition: Has a total of 240 federal acres of which only 180 are grazed as 50 acres are a campground and 10 acres is the work center. The South Murphy Pasture has 1560 acres of federal land; all are in the Loamy Ecological Site except for approximately 120 acres in Shaly Plains. On the Headquarters Pasture, the 180 acres has several ecological sites. They are Loamy (50 acres), Gravel Breaks (35 acres), Overflow (65 acres), Sandy Bottomland (15 acres), and Sandy (15 acres). Crow Creek, an ephemeral stream, meanders through the allotment from north to south. An inactive irrigation ditch runs north to south along the western side of the allotment and connects to Crow Creek just outside the northern boundary of the allotment. There are two wildlife exclosures on the Crow Creek bottom. The South Murphy Pasture has no major drainages. The pasture is part of a large, rolling flat that has small watersheds draining off the east and west sides. In the Headquarters pasture benches above the creek bottom are dominated by blue grama and buffalograss, which are the Loamy and Gravel Breaks Ecological Sites. Fourwing saltbush is present with a variety of characteristic forbs. The creek bottom, that is the location of the Overflow and Sandy Bottomland Sites, was dominated by invasive Canada thistle, but prescriptive early season grazing has almost completely eliminated it. The South Murphy Pasture is dominated by blue grama, buffalograss and prickly pear cactus. Patches of the mid-grasses, needle-and-thread grass and western


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wheatgrass, occur in the pasture. The prickly pear cactus has a percent composition above desired community range. There are a variety of forbs present, including broom snakeweed and scarlet globemallow.

Howard Existing Condition: Has 5,641 acres, 4,041 acres of federal land, 960 acres of private land, and 640 acres of State land. There are three significant ecological sites within the allotment, Loamy (3,941 acres), Sandy (965 acres), and Overflow (480 acres). Small acreages of Shaley, Sands, and Clayey ecological sites are present. Howard Creek, an ephemeral stream, runs northwest-southwest through the middle of the allotment. Two un-named watersheds parallel Howard Creek, one to the north and one to the south of the creek. Blue grama and buffalograss are the dominant grasses on the Howard Allotment. Needle grasses and western wheatgrass are still present. There are areas that contain a high percentage of red threeawn. Broom snakeweed exists in good numbers all across the allotment. Stands of yucca occupy many ridge tops and upper slopes, denoting drier sites than the surrounding lower slopes and bottoms. There are still a few crested wheatgrass stands remaining from post Dust Bowl plantings, but these are diminishing in area size and vigor.

Jackpot Existing Condition: Has a total of 2,930 acres of which 100 acres are private land. The largest ecological site is Loamy (2,633 acres). Other ecological sites, ranging from 10 to 127 acres, are the Clayey, Sandy, Gravel Breaks, and Overflow. One unnamed, ephemeral creek flows west-northwest to east-southeast through the allotment. There is a playa lake mapped in section 21 and one mapped in section 27, near the centers of the sections. Blue grama and buffalograss dominate the ecological sites. On the western end of the allotment there is a high percentage of yucca on the very coarse soils of the hills and ridge tops. Blue grama is the dominant grass in these areas also. Broom snakeweed is prevalent in proportions higher than the ecological site description prescribes in the bottoms and flats. Some mid-grass remnants remain such as western wheatgrass and needle-and-thread grass. Sand dropseed is common in the bottoms on the western third of the allotment. The south half of section 28 contains remnant stands of crested wheatgrass.

Lee Existing Condition: There are 1,290 acres in the Lee with approximately 73 acres of private land. The private land consists of an irregular shape because the area was a lake bottom. The lake was expected to provide irrigation water and was to be supplied by an irrigation ditch constructed in the 1920’s that runs across the southeast corner of the allotment. The ditch has never been used since it was to be supplied with water from Crow Creek, which has not run steadily since the 1920’s. The Loamy ecological site contains 995 acres, the Shaley site has 162 acres, the Gravel Breaks has 90 acres, and the Overflow site has 43 acres. Crow Creek, an ephemeral stream, crosses the SE1/4SE1/4 of section 31 northeast to southwest. A playa lake is in the NW1/4NW1/4 of section 31. Watershed drainages run north-northwest to south-southeast in the allotment. Blue grama and buffalograss are the dominant grasses across the allotment. The western half of section 30 also contains a high percentage of red threeawn and has patches of remnant crested wheatgrass. The north half of the allotment also contain a high percentage of plains prickly pear.


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Main Existing Condition: Consists of 6,364 acres of federal land and 370 acres of private land. The Loamy Ecological Site occupies the majority of the acreage (4,224 acres). Smaller ecological sites are Sandy (231 acres), Gravel Breaks (275 acres), Overflow (644 acres) Shallow Siltstone (896 acres) and Badlands (321 acres). One large, un-named ephemeral stream runs northwest to southeast through sections 22, 27, 26, and 35 and second, un-named ephemeral steam flows northwest to southeast through section 32. The head of Coal Creek starts in Section 21 and flows ephemerally to the southeast through sections 27 and 34. An Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) recreational area is located in sections 23, 24, and 25 along an upper reach of Willow Creek, an ephemeral stream. The recreational area occupies approximately 200 acres. Blue grama and buffalograss dominate the ecological sites. On the western end of the allotment there is yucca on the very coarse soils of the hills and ridge tops. Blue grama is the dominant grass in these areas also. Broom snakeweed is prevalent on numerous locations in proportions higher than the ecological site descriptions Mid-grasses, such as western wheatgrass and needle-and-thread grass, are present across the allotment and reach dominant or sub-dominant status in numerous patches. Plains prickly pear cactus are present in increased percentages in sections 23 and 31. The drainage in section 32 contains a significant stand of fourwing saltbush. Most of the plants are robust. A permanent transect in the SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 27 was read in 2004. The rooted nested frequency summary showed a composition of 44% blue grama, 21% scarlet globemallow, 13% sedge, 10% western wheatgrass, 4% winterfat and minor percentages of bottlebrush squirreltail, western yarrow, prickly pear cactus, and buffalograss. The cover frequency data was dominated by blue grama with a cover frequency index (CFI) of 2470. Scarlet globemallow had the next highest CFI of 170 for forbs. The transect site was clearly dominated by blue grama and has a low compositional percentage of mid-grasses. An inspection of the area does show greater amounts of midgrasses in patches away from the transect location. Random selection of the transect site missed the heavier concentrations of mid-grasses. Still blue grama dominates overall on this allotment.

McGrew Existing Condition: Is 3,143 acres of which 2,276 acres are federal lands, 747 acres are private lands and 120 acres are state lands. 2,574 acres are within the Loamy Ecological Site, 371 acres are in the Sandy Ecological Site and 113 acres are in the Clayey Ecological Site. The Gravel Breaks and Shaley ecological sites are present on very small acreages. The allotment is part of a large flat and the only significant drainage is Coal Creek, which drains northwest to southeast in sections 3 and 10 on the eastern edge of the allotment. Other drainages off the flat occur in section 18, west to east, and section 8, north to south. An unused irrigation ditch meanders across sections 3, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 18. The present plant community is dominated by blue grama and buffalograss. Secondary grasses include western wheatgrass, red threeawn, needle-and-thread grass, sedge, and sand dropseed. Approximately 10% of the plant cover canopy is fourwing saltbush. Many of the saltbush plants are not robust and have experienced some grazing, probably due to the last four years of dry conditions. A mixture of forbs and woody forbs is present including prickly pear cactus, broom snakeweed, scarlet globemallow, hairy goldaster, and vetches. In the


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eastern end of the allotment, specifically in the drainage, target shooting has impacted the area by creating local disturbed areas that have no vegetation left and by having trash discarded.

Murphy Existing Condition: Consists of 3,499 acres, of which, 2,965 acres are in the Loamy Ecological Site. There are 320 acres of private land and 3,179 acres of federal land. The private land is under a CVLCI Credit Agreement. Other ecological sites present in the allotment are: Clayey (120 acres), Sandy (81 acres), Gravel Breaks (8 acres), Shaley (10 acres), and Overflow (215 acres). Howard Creek, an ephemeral creek, flows through the allotment northwest to southeast in section 31. The smaller watersheds all flow northwest to southeast also. Playa lakes exist in the south central area of Section 1 and in the NE1/4 of Section 12. The ecological sites on the allotment are dominated largely by blue grama and buffalograss. The Arrowhead pasture in the northeast has a strong stand of crested wheatgrass remaining. Isolated stands exist in the other pastures. The Corner Pasture has good stands of mid-grasses, western wheatgrass and needle-and-thread grass, and the bottom of Howard Creek contains several large cottonwoods. Prickly pear cactus exists in numerous patches that have composition percentages higher than required for the Desired Condition.

North McGrew Existing Condition: Is 800 acres all of which are federal lands. 793 acres are within the Loamy Ecological Site, and 7 acres are in the Shaly Plains Ecological Site. The allotment is part of a large, rolling flat with no significant drainage. A large playa is located on the south central portion of the north half of section 34. The present plant community is dominated by blue grama and buffalograss in the southern pasture. Residual crested wheatgrass dominates in the majority of the northern pasture with blue grama and buffalograss dominated patches increasing with time. Secondary grasses include western wheatgrass, red threeawn, needle-and-thread grass, sedge, and sand dropseed. Approximately10% of the plant cover canopy is fourwing saltbush. Many of the saltbush plants are not robust and have experienced some grazing, probably due to the last four years of dry conditions. A mixture of forbs and woody forbs is present including prickly pear cactus, broom snakeweed, scarlet globemallow, hairy goldaster, and vetches. In the eastern end of the allotment, specifically in the drainage, target shooting has impacted the area by creating local disturbed areas that have no vegetation left and by having trash discarded.

Owl/Roe Existing Condition: There are approximately 7,400 acres in the allotments, of which 360 acres are private. 5,202 acres are in the Loamy Ecological Site, 1,124 acres on in the Salt Flats Ecological Site, 676 acres in the Sandy Ecological Site, 23 acres in the Overflow Ecological Site, and 81 acres in the Clayey Ecological Site. Three drainages flow north-south through the allotment: Robinson Creek flows through sections 8, 17 and 21, Owl Creek flows through sections 4, 9, 16 (not in the allotment), and 21, and Eastman Creek flows through sections 3, 10, 15, and 16. Eastman Creek enters Owl Creek in section 16. While these creeks are ephemeral, numerous ponds in the drainages contain water throughout several months of the year providing aquatic/riparian habitat. Blue grama and buffalograss are dominant overall on the allotments, but there


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are approximately .1 to .5 acre patches that are dominated by western wheatgrass or needle-and-thread grass or patches with a high percentage of these cool season grasses. The patches of cool season grasses more commonly occur on stretches along creek bottoms. Downy brome occupies stretches along the two-track roads. A few Indian ricegrass plants are present. Some of the flats have a good abundance of red threeawn. Prickly pear cactus dominates some patches and likely exceeds the desired condition percentage. Three shrubs species are present in the allotment: fourwing saltbush, rubber rabbitbrush and sand sage. The fourwing saltbush is the most dominant of the shrubs, covering most of the allotment except right along the creek bottoms. The individual plants are small with signs of grazing. Some plants are very robust. Two transects were read in 2004 on this allotment: one on a Loamy Ecological Site and one on a Salt Flats Ecological Site (data in Appendix C). Data from the transect in NE1/4NW1/4 of Section 10 on a Loamy site showed high cover frequency index (cfi) values for blue grama (350), prickly pear cactus (400) and buffalograss (225). W estern wheatgrass and red threeawn were the only two other grasses that were on the transect, and their cfi values were less than one. The rooted nested frequency data for this transect showed high percent composition values for: red threeawn (21%), blue grama (15%), buffalograss (14%) and broom snakeweed (9%). Six-point ground cover data had the following percent of cover: litter/duff = 36%, basal vegetation = 26%, and bare soil = 38%. The transect on the Salt Flats site is located in the SE1/4NW1/4NW1/4 of Section 15. Canopy cover was dominated by bare soil (cfi=3600), alkali sacaton (cfi=1190), blue grama (cfi=500), litter (cfi=400), inland saltgrass (cfi=390) and bryozoan crustations (cfi=385). Rooted nested frequency data show the site is compositionally dominated by: blue grama (25%), alkali sacaton (21%), inland saltgrass (17%), fame flower (11%), and prickly pear cactus (10%). The only other grasses on the transect were western wheatgrass and a sedge with percentages less than 1 percent. The shrubs, fourwing saltbush, and green rabbitbrush represented two percent each of the compositional makeup of the site. Six-point ground cover showed: litter at 28%, basal vegetation at 30%, and bare soil at 42%.

Porter Existing Condition: Consists of 1,120 acres of which, 1,000 acres are federal land, 80 acres is a state lease and 40 acres are private. The Loamy Ecological Site has approximately 840 acres; there are 233 acres of Clayey Ecological Site and very small acreages of the Gravel Breaks, Sandy Bottomland, and Overflow Ecological Sites. Geary Creek, an ephemeral stream, flows across the private land in the southwest area of the allotment in section 36. An un-named small drainage runs northwest to southeast across the middle portion of the allotment. Blue grama and buffalograss are the dominant grasses in the allotment with the sedges as a co-dominant except on patches of western wheatgrass, which are fairly numerous across the allotment. The largest, most consistent wheatgrass patches are on the Geary Creek bottom. There are smaller, more widely scattered patches of needle-and-thread grass. One large patch of needle-and-thread grass runs along a small ridge or rise with the drainage that cuts across


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the middle portion of the allotment. This drainage also contains a high percentage of sixweeks fescue, a small annual grass that is very difficult to manage for. Prickly pear is spread across the allotment with only a few very dense patches. Shrubs are not a component of the ecosystem in this allotment at this time.

Raven Existing Condition: Consists of 1,286 acres of which 960 acres are federal land and 340 acres are private land. There are 1,163 acres in the Loamy Ecological Site and 123 acres in the Sandy Ecological Site. A wildlife exclosure of 14 acres is in the northeast corner of the allotment. There are no significant drainages in the allotment, only an undulating topography that drains to the south. The Raven Allotment contains numerous dead blue grama and buffalograss plants as a result of the past four years of dry conditions. While there is some recovery because of increased spring moisture this year (2005), there has been no replacement for many of the dead plants. While blue grama and buffalograss are the dominant grasses, western wheatgrass is a viable component and there are some small patches of needle-and-thread grass and some isolated sand dropseed plants. Crested wheatgrass, a reseed component from the Dust Bowl years, has been largely replaced by native species. There is a high percentage of red threeawn, bottlebrush squirreltail and sixweeks fescue, which exceeds desired condition percentages of 5 percent. Forbs present include: plains prickly pear, slimleaf scurfpea, hairy goldaster, and scarlet globemallow. The only woody plant is broom snakeweed. There has been significant recovery over the last two years (2011-2012) due to increased precipitation.

Reno Existing Condition: Consists of 4,320 acres including 960 acres of state land and 320 acres of private land. 3,286 acres are in the Loamy Ecological Site. Other ecological sites present are: Clayey (39 acres), Sandy (33 acres), Gravel Breaks (265 acres), Shaley (670 acres), and Sandstone Breaks (27 acres). Reno Reservoir is located in the NE¼ of section 8. This reservoir has been dry in recent years. An administrative site, the USDA Forest Service communications repeater, is located on top of Reno Hill in section 7. Drainage, which consists of a series of small ephemeral creeks, is primarily to the south in the southern half of the allotment and to the north in the northern half of the allotment away from the topographic high that runs east-west through the middle of the allotment.

The dominant grasses are blue grama and buffalograss. Needle and thread is present on the allotment in scattered patches but it is not completely dominant within the patches, only a significant higher percentage than the surrounding sites. Western wheatgrass is more concentrated along the creek bottoms in dense patches and six to15 feet diameter patches of lower density off the bottoms. Sedges are present across the allotment. Less desirable grasses present include: bottlebrush squirreltail, red threeawn, and sixweeks fescue. Broom snakeweed, plains prickly pear cactus, hairy goldaster, native thistle, slim leaf scurfpea, several vetches, and scarlet globemallow are the prevalent forbs observed. Wooly plaintain and one species of erigeron are present in small numbers. Cover-wise there are large areas of the allotment that are cactus dominant.

Fourwing saltbush is present, but no dense stands exist in the allotment. Many


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of the individual plants are small and have been moderately to heavily grazed. Yucca occupies some of the drier hilltop sites as scattered plants.

Sand Existing Condition: There are 4,419 total acres in the Sand Allotment, of which 720 acres are state land and 3,699 acres are federal land. The large majority of the acreage is in the Loamy Ecological Site (3,808 acres) and the second largest ecological site present is the Sandy (860 acres). Other sites present are: Clayey (92 acres), Gravel Breaks (43 acres), Shaley (49 acres), and Sandstone Breaks (77 acres); all very minor components of the ecological site makeup of the allotment. Watershed drainages flow north-northwest to south-southeast. The only significant creek is Sand Creek, whose uppermost reaches are just north of the allotment. The creek is ephemeral, but some potholes with free water exist most of the year except during extremely dry years. The dominant grasses are blue grama and buffalograss. There are extensive patches of needle-and-thread grass in the northwest portion of the allotment. Some cheat grass is present along the roads. Western wheatgrass is abundant along the creek bottoms, especially around bottom potholes. Other grasses present include sedges and the lesser desirable grasses, red threeawn and sixweeks fescue. Broom snakeweed is scattered across the allotment and other native forbs include: slimflower scurfpea, hairy goldaster, musk thistle, vetch species, wooly plantain, and erigerons. Cactus exceeds desired condition in percent composition on some of the upper slopes and plateau areas. Fringed sagewort in abundant in the northwest area of the allotment. The shrub, fourwing saltbush, is present across the allotment, but not in abundant percentages.

Sauer Existing Condition: Consists of 320 acres of federal land, all of which are in the Loamy Ecological Site classification. There are two small drainages in the allotment. One ephemeral creek runs northwest to southeast through the southwest corner of the allotment and another ephemeral creek runs north to south through the east central portion of the allotment. The plant community is dominated by blue grama and buffalograss. Other grasses present include patches of a few square feet of western wheatgrass, large areas of .5 acre of larger of needle-and-thread, red three awn, bottlebrush squirreltail and sedge. The two dominant forbs are plains prickly pear cactus and broom snakeweed. Broom snakeweed has a cover of approximately 6%, based on an ocular estimate that is a high percentage of the total forb requirement for Desired Conditions. A few isolated fourwing saltbush and winterfat plants are present.

Spring Existing Condition: Has 720 acres of federal land and a 12-acre wildlife exclosure. The dominant ecological site is Loamy with 513 acres. Other ecological sites found on the allotment are Salt Flats (156 acres) and Clayey (39 acres). Two drainages with ephemeral creeks run east-west across the southern half of the allotment. The wildlife exclosure contains a small pond and spring-fed, sub-irrigated marshland. The allotment is dominated by buffalograss with blue grama as a sub-dominant. Other grasses present are: patches of western wheatgrass and alkali sacoton, a few plants of needle-and-thread grass, red threeawn and sixweeks fescue. There


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is a high percentage of forb and woody forb cover, estimated at 12-15% (ocular estimate). This exceeds desired condition percentages. The forbs are plains prickly pear cactus, broom snakeweed, and one or more species of rabbitbrush. Yucca is found on dry hilltops but is not prevalent in the allotment.

Vivian Existing Condition: Consists of 5,957 acres of federal land, 320 acres of private land, and 160 acres of state land, for a total of 6,437 acres. By ecological site classification, 5,304 acres are Loamy, 444 acres are Shallow Siltstone, 289 acres are Clayey, 158 acres are gravel breaks, 105 acres are Overflow, 73 acres are Sandy, and 65 acres are Shale Breaks. The drainages in the Vivian run northwest to southeast and are ephemeral creeks. Willow Creek, which flows northwest to southeast through section 9, has ponds that contain water most of the year except during very dry conditions. The uplands are dominated by blue grama and buffalograss. There are patches of western wheatgrass and needle-and-thread grass across the allotment. Other grasses present are bottlebush squirreltail, red threeawn, sixweeks fescue, and sand dropseed. The creek bottom along Willow Creek is dominated by western wheatgrass with blue grama as a secondary component. The dominant forb is broom snakeweed that may represent up to 10-15% of the canopy cover (ocular estimate) is some areas. Plains prickly pear cactus is a subdominant forb. While there are few areas of high compositional percentages, the plant is abundant across the allotment.

West Willow Existing Condition: There are 2,181 acres of federal land in the West Willow Allotment. The ecological site classification for the West Willow Allotment is: 1,477 acres are Loamy, 150 acres are Clayey, 318 acres are Sandy, 80 acres are Gravel Breaks, and 156 acres are Overflow. The drainages in the allotment flow northwest to southeast. Willow Creek, an ephemeral creek with long-standing ponds, flows through the southwest portion of the allotment through sections 29, 32 and 33. An old irrigation ditch runs along the east side of Willow Creek, paralleling the creek. Two wildlife exclosures exist along Willow Creek in section 29 totaling approximately 24 acres. The uplands are dominated by blue grama and buffalograss with cool season remnants of sedges, western wheatgrass and needle-and-thread grass present. Minor grasses include: red threeawn, bottlebrush squirreltail, ring muhly, and sixweeks fescue. A large section of the Top Pasture (eastern pasture) was seeded into crested wheatgrass and that area currently has a degenerating stand of crested wheatgrass with an influx of native grasses and forbs replacing the crested wheatgrass. Plains prickly pear cactus and broom snakeweed are abundant. The bottom along Willow Creek is blue grama – western wheatgrass dominated with buffalograss, alkali sacaton, inland saltgrass and green needlegrass present.

Wildhorse Existing Condition: There are 480 acres of private land, 240 acres of state land and 3,113 acres in the Wild Horse Allotment. Ecological site classification shows 3,539 acres are in the Loamy, 200 acres are in Clayey, 62 acres are in Sandy and 39 acres are in Shaly. The drainages in the allotment flow northwest to southeast. There are two named drainages, Baker Draw and Little Sand Creek. Baker Draw, an ephemeral drainage, enters the allotment on the section line


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between sections 32 and 31, flows south along the west side of sections 32 and 5 where it enters Little Sand Creek in section 5. Little Sand Creek is an ephemeral stream that flows from the northwest corner to the southeast corner of the allotment. The present plant community is blue grama/ buffalograss dominated with a few cool season grass remnants. Very few shrubs exist, fourwing saltbush or winterfat, and the blue grama is frequently sod-bound. There is only a minor presence of western wheatgrass and needlegrass. Other less desirable grasses present are sixweeks fescue, bottlebrush squirreltail, sand dropseed, ring muhly, and red threeawn. Some scattered remnants of planted crested wheatgrass still exist from the earlier re-seeding. Common forbs are scarlet globemallow, a variety of asters, astragalus species, dotted gayfeather, fringed sagewort (woody forb), slimflower scurfpea, thistle species, and western ragweed.

Yearling Existing Condition: Is 3,454 acres that is comprised of 2,814 acres of federal land and 640 acres of state land. The majority of this acreage is in the Loamy Ecological Site classification (3195 acres). The other ecological sites present are: Clayey (78 acres), Sandy (59 acres), Gravel Breaks (25 acres), Overflow (57 acres), and Shaley (40 acres). Watershed drainages flow predominantly northwest to southeast. The only named creek in the allotment is Willow Creek that flows northwest to southeast across section 23 on the north end of the allotment. Several mapped playa lakes are scattered across the allotment. The present plant community is blue grama/ buffalograss dominated with a few cool season grass remnants. Very few shrubs exist, fourwing saltbush or winterfat, and the blue grama is frequently sod-bound. There is only a minor presence of western wheatgrass and needlegrass. Other less desirable grasses present are sixweeks fescue, bottlebrush squirreltail, sand dropseed, ring muhly, and red threeawn. Some scattered remnants of planted crested wheatgrass still exist from the earlier re-seeding. Common forbs are scarlet globemallow, a variety of asters, astragalus species, dotted gayfeather, fringed sagewort (woody forb), slimflower scurfpea, thistle species, and western ragweed.

CVLCI Winter Use Allotments

Winter use allotments are small and/or isolated tracts of federal land commingled with larger tracts of

private land to form a natural grazing unit. The following 22 allotments are currently winter use

allotments of the CVLCI with the approximate federal acreage in parentheses: Brahma (640), Cheever

(640), Lone Tree (1200), Rush (321), Pony (1,120), Cox (80), McGehee (160), Yucca (320), Nob (480),

Hoblit (160), Brush (160), Verbich (160), Whip (80), Tumbleweed (1,040), Cactus (320), Hawk (680),

Rabbit (40), Jensen (80), Calder (320), Jones (320), Rock (160), and Eagle (640). Some of these

allotments will be combined with larger summer grazing allotments because of their contiguous

position with these summer allotments. They are the Hoblit (Sand) and Verbich (North McGrew).

These allotments are administered through the association as on/off permits or with a private term

permit depending on the percentage of forage within the unit that is contributed by the federal acreage.

While there is a responsibility to be appraised of the conditions on these acreage, because of their

isolated position, small acreage and limited range staffing resources, these lands are rarely evaluated.

Occasional inspections have shown these acres to generally be occupied by a blue grama/ buffalograss

dominated community with a variety of minor grasses and forbs typical of the PNG.


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Table 2: Existing Conditions for PNG Summer Grazing Allotments Administered by the PCGA

Allotment Name Range Condition

Allen Existing Condition: Is approximately 2,377 acres of NFS land, with 2 playas. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1,200 intermixed with Sandy = 500 and Limestone Breaks = 370; and Gravel Breaks = 300 at the southern end of the allotment. Past and present management has been season long grazing, usually from 5/15- 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation includes: blue grama/buffalograss, western wheatgrass and other cool season grasses. Yucca communities exist in the southeastern portion of the allotment. Seeded crested wheatgrass exists on the southern sections, but has decreased over the years since the 1960’s. A prescribed fire burned 360 acres of Section 33 in the spring of 2005 for plover habitat. Current PCGA member who has operated in the allotment for a number of years has available resources to winter graze if this management is needed to achieve desired conditions. Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than mid-tall vegetation. Forest soils/hydrology reports indicate that water overflowing from the Gap Well is carrying sediment and water down slope into the nearby playa, causing some soil erosion and compaction by cattle. Overall, the soils and precipitation patterns in this northern area of the Pawnee Unit are better than in other parts of the Pawnee Unit, and in general plant vigor is good. Diffuse knapweed was recently found in the vicinity of this allotment. Careful attention should be paid in treating this noxious weed if found. The electric well in Section 20 is adequate, but serves the Anderson and Youngland, as well as the Allan allotment. The windmill in Section 29 has good storage, and the windmill in Section 33 is generally good.

Anderson Existing Condition: Is approximately 2,418 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 2,100 intermixed with Limestone Breaks = 340. It currently consists of 4 pastures. Recent management has been 1 PCGA member occupying Section 14 from 5/1-10/1 to take advantage of the crested wheatgrass. Another PCGA member rotates 3 pastures: Sections 13, 18, 17, each for 1/3 of the season from 5/15-10/15. Dominant forage vegetation includes: blue grama/buffalograss, western wheatgrass and other cool season grasses. Historically, Section 18 was also known for being a crested wheatgrass pasture. Section 17 has draws and bottomlands, and is generally more productive. In 1964, this allotment was put into rotation as a demonstration pasture for the feasibility of rotational grazing. Inspections of this allotment indicate that this allotment may already be meeting desired condition. Some trash pickup is needed. Overall, the soils and precipitation patterns in this northern area of the Pawnee Unit are better than in other parts of the Pawnee Unit, and in general plant vigor is good. Diffuse knapweed was recently found in the vicinity of this allotment. Careful attention should be paid in treating this noxious weed if found.

Benner-Reservoir Existing Condition: Is approximately 639 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Sandy = 220 intermixed with Loamy = 115, Shallow Siltstone = 110, Gravel Breaks = 90, Sandy Bottomland = 50 and Shaly Plains = 50. Most of the section is “go back”, seeded with crested wheatgrass. A larkspur problem has existed along the drainage in the northern half of the allotment since before the 1960’s. The Reservoir allotment is approximately 698 acres of NFS land, and 24 acres of waived lands. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 220 intermixed with Sandy = 85, Shallow Siltstone = 235, Gravel Breaks = 50, Badland = 25, and Shaly Plains = 90. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss, some crested wheatgrass and other cool season grasses. Since dams were constructed on private lands up stream, the reservoir in the southwestern corner of the allotment has not regularly held water in the summer. Section 24 could be better utilized if water was piped to the western part of this allotment. Rock outcrops on the southern part of the allotment, and


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north of the tank in Section 19. Past and present management has been to utilize the Benner early to take advantage of the crested wheatgrass, then moving to the Reservoir in August to take advantage of native vegetation. Frequently, 2 PCGA members run herds together. Inspections of the allotments indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than mid-tall vegetation. In general plant vigor is good. One electric well in the Benner services both allotments. A well in the southeastern corner of the allotment was abandoned as of 2004.

Bluff/Arrow Existing Condition: Is approximately 381 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 325; and Sandstone Breaks = 50 on the east end of the allotment. The Arrow allotment is approximately 80 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 50; and Sandstone Breaks = 30 on the east end of the allotment. Grazing only occurs below the chalk bluffs, and a wildlife exclosure exists to the west of the grazing area, below the bluffs. The lower grazing area consists of go-back land and native grasses. Access to these allotments is through private land. The current PCGA member takes an active role in an intense rotation plan with the Bluff and private land, and makes annual adjustments to the numbers and timing of the rotations (within the allocated AUMs from the PGCA) based on weather and growing conditions of key species. A complete description of the plan from July 2006 is filed in the 2210 Bluff allotment folder. Current condition is meeting desired condition. Two CSU professors visited the Bluff during August of 2006 with the PNG range management specialist and PCGA member, and noted desirable indicator plants in the draws and vigorous grass growth, even in drought conditions. The exclosure had some excess litter build up. Desired Condition: The Bluff and Arrow allotments will be managed for vegetative structure and chalk bluffs. The desired mix of short structure to mid-tall structure is approximately 80/20.

Boulier (includes Jug Pasture)

Existing Condition: The Bourlier allotment is approximately 774 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 620 acres intermixed with Limestone Breaks = 170. The Jug allotment is approximately 146 acres of NFS land. The Jug is adjacent to the Bourlier, and since it is not fenced out nor has water of its own – it effectively makes the allotment approximately 945 acres of NFS land. The Jug has primarily Loamy ecological sites. Past and present management is to use the northeast pasture from May 15 to July 4, then move to southwest pasture until September 1, then open then gate from September to October. Additional permitted grazing occurred in 2005 in conjunction with a mountain plover grazing treatment in lieu of a prescribed fire that was scheduled for that spring but did not happen. The northeast pasture has mostly mid-tall vegetation such as needle-and-thread grass, and the southwest pasture has mostly short vegetation dominated by blue grama/buffalograss, as well as larkspur occurring in various places. Inspections of this allotment indicate that the north part of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions. The tank in the northeast pasture needs to be repaired because it cannot support all the cattle in the summer. Diffuse knapweed was recently found in the vicinity of this allotment. Careful attention should be paid in treating this noxious weed if found.

Box Existing Condition: The Box allotment is approximately 2,483 acres of NFS land, and 1,313 acres of waived land. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 2,500 intermixed with Sandy =900, Gravel Breaks =225, and Overflow = 190. Present management involves 2 PCGA members, and 1 non-member in season long grazing north of Pawnee Creek, starting mid-late May if conditions permit to 10/15. The adjacent boundaries of the Rim allotment (winter use, also called the Mayfield by PGCA) has no exclosed grazing along the creek area and can be confused with the boundaries of


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the Box allotment. Part of the Pawnee Creek that runs through the boundaries of the Box can be excluded from grazing. Cooler season grasses existed in the past; more blue grama/buffalo grass exists currently. Inspections of this allotment indicate that the north part of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions; but plant vigor could be improved. The west side is under-utilized and some trash pickup is needed. While the northern Jinx well is considered good, the Skyline well is considered poor and is dry most of the time. A pipeline from the 18’ tank in Section 16 to the Skyline well would improve conditions and keep cattle off creek. CRP exists on private land in E2 of Section 1. The small pasture south of the Pawnee Creek has been heavily impacted by prairie dogs, and cattle are turned into this pasture for minimal amounts of time due to lack of forage and a suboptimal well. Trespass into the exclosed creek area can occur when well has problems. Currently, Canada thistle is being chemically treated on an annual basis along the Pawnee Creek.

Bringelson Existing Condition: The Bringelson allotment is approximately 2,091 acres of NFS land, and 831 acres of waived land. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. However, it is anticipated that by December 2007, the N2 Section 32, T9N, R58W land exchange will take place and will become NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 2,400 intermixed with Gravel Breaks = 475. Past and present management has been season long grazing, usually from 5/15 or 6/1 – 10/15. Currently, 2 PCGA members operate in this allotment. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss with some “go back” and other mid-tall structure vegetation in Section 30. Sections 29 & 30 also contain fourwing saltbush communities, thought to be planted many years ago. Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired. In addition, the condition of the fourwing saltbush communities is a concern. The windmills in Sections 29 and 31 are considered marginal, but a relatively new electric well on the border of sections 30 and 31 does not appear to be fully utilized.

Buck Existing Condition: The Buck allotment is approximately 1,461 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 865 intermixed with Sandy = 500 and Sandstone Breaks = 110. For a number of years, the Buck allotment has been rotated with the Wharton-Fuss allotment, located 5 miles directly north. Two PCGA members run combined herds, which typically separate from each other. Depending on conditions, the Buck is grazed from 5/15 –8/1 then cattle are driven to the Wharton-Fuss from 8/1 – 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss with seeded crested wheatgrass in various areas. Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be more abundant than mid-tall structure vegetation. In years with high precipitation, near the center of Sec 26 tends to produce Canada thistle. Water improvements are marginal and may not support a lot of cattle at one time.

Butler Existing Condition: The Butler allotment is approximately 948 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 825 intermixed with Sandy = 55 and Limestone Breaks = 75. Past and present management has been season long grazing, generally turning on 5/1 to take advantage of the crested wheatgrass to 10/1. The majority (90%) of this allotment was historically farmed and seeded with crested wheatgrass. Although crested wheatgrass was predominant at one time, the buffalo grass/blue grama sod community has slowly been replacing the crested wheatgrass. Surrounding land use includes CRP, cultivation, and grazed pastures. Inspections of this allotment indicate that this allotment may already be meeting desired condition. Recently, diffuse knapweed was found in nearby CRP land. Although preliminary surveys did not find the diffuse knapweed in the Butler, it should be surveyed for annually. Windmills are considered adequate for current stocking.


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Buttes Existing Condition: The Buttes allotment is approximately 4,210 acres of NFS land, with 40 acres of waived land, and 500 acres of wildlife exclosures. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1,200 intermixed with Sandy = 1,600; and Gravel Breaks = 1,050 primarily in Section 24, 25, 29, and 30. Badland = 100 exists. The Buttes encompasses rangeland, chalk bluffs, and woody draws. The dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss, western wheatgrass, and some crested wheatgrass. Trees and shrubs exist along the escarpments and draws, such as juniper, limber pine, choke cherry, snowberry, sumac, and mountain mahogany. Although past efforts to control larkspur have reduced it in the draws, it still remains a risk to livestock on the west side. As a result of the 1997 Revision of the Land and Resource Management Plan for the Arapaho and Roosevelt NF and PNG, this allotment has a designated Forest Plan Category 2.2 Research Natural Area (Dave’s Draw) in the northern part of the allotment; a Category 3.61 Prairie Woodlands Management Area in the north western part of the allotment; and a Category 3.1 Special Interest Area that includes most of the east half of the allotment. This is an important allotment for wildlife because of the diversity of terrain and vegetation. Dave’s Draw and one other wildlife exclosure enclose woody draws which provide important habitat for a variety of wildlife such as raptors and mule deer. A prescribed fire burned 445 acres of Section 26 in the spring of 2004 for plover habitat. Surveys found no nesting response from plovers that year. Although the Pawnee Buttes are not in this allotment, the only public access to the Buttes trail is through the allotment. The Pawnee Buttes are well known for their scenic beauty, and interest and recreation in this area has increased over the years due in part to being located along a Scenic Byway. In 2006, and analysis of a proposal to enhance recreational opportunities was started to address issues with roads, trails, and dispersed camping. Present management by 2 PGCA members is a 2 pasture grazing system from 6/1 – 10/15. Typically, one member starts in the west and other in the east, with gates closed between the pastures until around 7/1 due to differing breeding practices. If water in the east pasture gets low, east member puts cows into west pasture until the water catches up in the east pasture. Once water availability is sufficient, gates are typically opened and cattle disperse throughout both pastures for the rest of season. The Forest Plan calls for limited grazing in the RNA, but this has not occurred for 5-6 years. The prior AMP dated 1983 called for limited grazing of Dave’s Draw every 4 years. Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired. Section 26 bottom may be disproportionately impacted by grazing. The chalk bluff areas are in good condition. Generally, wells are considered good although vandalism to the tanks has increased with increased visitation to the Pawnee Buttes, particularly around the Mesa Well.

East Keota Existing Condition: The East Keota allotment is approximately 3,777 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1,900 intermixed with Shaly Plains = 1,130; and Overflow = 440 occurring in the northern and central part of the allotment. Present and past management is season long grazing from 6/1-10/15. A large fourwing saltbush community exists in Section 32, and scattered on the west side of the central portion of the allotment. In addition to the fourwing saltbush, the majority of the allotment has blue grama/buffalo grass communities; western wheat grass exists along the creek in Sections 5 and 32 throughout. As a result of the 1997 Revision of the Land and Resource Management Plan for the Arapaho and Roosevelt NFs and PNG, a designated Forest Plan Category 2.2 Research Natural Area Management Area is shared across the border with the Keota Steer allotment on the west side of the allotment in Section 6 and part of Section 5. A prescribed fire burned 615 acres of Sections 8 and 17 in


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the spring of 1999 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers that year were considered excellent (>=15 nests). Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired. In addition, the condition of the fourwing saltbush community is a concern. A 2005 project by CSU graduate students found the fourwing saltbush community lacking in recruitment of new shrubs, and the small proportion of new shrubs found showed signs of heavy browsing. As this plant is well adapted to winter use, a deferred rotational system of grazing will aid this plant in producing a maximum yield of forage for livestock. Forest soils/hydrology reports indicate the East Keota has some sheet erosion occurring, and is not meeting forest plan soil standards in some areas. Wells in this allotment are generally good.

East Stoneham Existing Condition: The East Stoneham allotment is approximately 3,032 acres of NFS land with a 143 acre wildlife exclosure in the NE corner of the allotment. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 2,600; and Sandy = 300 primarily in the northern part of the allotment. Present management is season long grazing by 3 PCGA members whose herds typically stay separate from 5/1 or 5/15 to 10/15. The prior AMP dated 1988 prescribed a one herd, 4 pasture deferred rotation system, but it is unclear why implementation did not occur. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss, western wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass. At one time, almost half the allotment was seeded with crested wheat, and the bigger remnant stands can be found in the northern half of the allotment, but also scattered throughout. A prescribed fire burned 640 acres of Sections 23 and 26 in the spring of 2006; and 640 acres of Section 18 in the spring of 2005 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers in 2006 were considered moderate (1-2 nests), and none were found in 2005. A number of abandoned cisterns exist. Inspections of this allotment indicate that most of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions, but playa conditions and overall utilization could be improved. One electric well serves 6 tanks.

Fiscus Existing Condition: The Fiscus allotment is approximately 1,320 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 780; with Sandy = 290 and Overflow = 60 in the northern half of the allotment. Past and present management has been season long grazing from 5/15- 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss and some scattered crested wheatgrass. The northwestern end of the allotment has intermittent potholes along the creek that are currently less reliable for water than in the past. The only other water source is in the southern end of the allotment. Inspections of this allotment indicate that most of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions; but riparian area and playa condition should be improved. An electric well was completed in the South Simmons Allotment that also supplies water through a pipeline system to the southern half of the allotment.

Horsetail The Horsetail allotment is approximately 2,719 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 2540; with Gravel Breaks = 30 and Overflow = 50 and Shaly Plains = 120 all occurring in Section 7. Past and present management has been season long grazing from 5/15 – 10/15. Currently, 2 PCGA members operate together, but herds generally stay separate. Dominant forage vegetation is blue grama/buffalograss. Taller structure vegetation is present through some draws in Sec 5, and in the southern ends of Sections 7 and 8. A prescribed fire burned 620 acres of Sec 5 in the spring of 2006 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers that year were considered good (3-5 nests). Current Condition: Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired, and plant vigor/density could be improved.


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Forest soils/hydrology reports indicate that water overflowing from the well in Section 7 is carrying sediment and water down slope into the nearby playa, causing some soil erosion and compaction by cattle. Water is currently very limiting in this allotment. The Horsetail windmill in Section 7 is considered adequate, but the Sub electric well at the SE corner of Section 5 is marginal and services 6 tanks.

Indian Caves Existing Condition: The Indian Caves allotment is approximately 1,318 acres of NFS land, and 1,020 acres of waived land. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1,585 in the southern majority of the allotment; with the northern and far western part of the allotment intermixed with Sandy = 275, Shallow Siltstone = 160, Sandstone Breaks = 180, Gravel Breaks = 50, Salt Flat = 215, and Shaly Plains = 175. This allotment has a designated Forest Plan Category 2.2 Research Natural Area and a Category 3.61 Prairie Woodlands Management Area in the northern part of the allotment. The north boundary is roughly formed by the chalk bluffs. Past and present management has been some variation of a 2 pasture rotation from 5/15 – 10/15. Clarification is needed. A fence divides Section 26 and the southern half of Section 23, which effectively divides the allotment in half. Two wildlife exclosures exist and two springs exist in the chalk bluff areas. The eastern spring is exclosed and has flowing water, and the western spring has a small pond associated with it as a result of a constructed dam. Dominant vegetation includes blue grama and various sub shrubs. A variety of trees, shrubs, forbs and grasses grow in the wildlife exclosures. Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be more abundant than what is desired. Forest soils/hydrology reports indicate the spring on the west side of the allotment has compacted and bare soil and poor water quality. The spring on the east side is in good condition.

Keota Existing Condition: The Keota allotment is approximately 5,399 acres of NFS land, and 498 acres of waived land. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 4,900; Shaly Plains = 330 intermixed with Salt Flat = 485 primarily in the central third of the allotment, and Sandstone Breaks = 70 occurring in North Keota. The southern section of Keota is almost entirely Loamy. The North Keota (Sections 28, 29) is a separate pasture, and recently has had 1 PCGA member in it season long from 5/15/ - 10/15. The rest of the allotment to the south is presently grazed season long by 2 PGCA members from 5/15 or 6/1 – 10/15, whose herds are technically combined, but typically stay separated from each other in the central vs. the southern end. This allotment is primarily a short structure allotment, with buffalo grass and blue grama predominant, prickly pear cactus abundant, with areas of western and crested wheatgrass in the southwest. Many playas scattered throughout, and rock outcrops exist on the northern part of the allotment. Two tanks in the southern end are fed by an electric well in the South allotment. A prescribed fire burned 640 acres of Sections 4 and 34 in the spring of 2006 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers that year were considered good (3-5 nests). Inspections of this allotment indicate that most of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions; but plant vigor and density could be improved. In addition, playa condition could be improved. Although 10 year average actual use indicates lower stocking than the historical capacity estimate, vegetative conditions are not as good as the South allotment which also has a low average actual use rate. Most wells on the allotment are considered fair to good, except the Coal Mine well on the southern end which is considered poor. An electric well in the South allotment serves 3 tanks in the Keota, as well as 3 tanks in the South and only outputs 3 gal/min.

Keota Steer Existing Condition: The Keota Steer allotment is approximately 3,416 acres of NFS land, and 15 acres of waived land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy =


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2,380 intermixed with Sandy =100, Gravel Breaks = 70, and Shaly Plains = 790. Salt Flat = 75 in SW1/4 of Section 13. Past and present management has been season long grazing from 61/1 - 10/15, currently 2 PCGA run herds together with no concerns. An AMP dated 1981 tried rotations by turning on/off water and moving salt, with little success. Recommendations based on that experience were to implement a 3 pasture system and/or combine with the East Keota for a total of 4 pastures. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss, fourwing saltbush scattered in the northern part of the allotment, western wheatgrass, and some crested wheatgrass. Rock outcrops exist in the northern part of the allotment. As a result of the 1997 Revision of the Land and Resource Management Plan for the Arapaho and Roosevelt NFs and PNG, a designated Forest Plan Category 2.2 Research Natural Area Management Area is shared across the border with the East Keota allotment on the west side of the allotment in Section 6 and part of Section 1; and the remainder of the allotment is designated as a Category 3.1 Special Interest Area. A prescribed fire burned 1,175 acres in Sections 6, 7, 1, and 12 in 2002 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers that year were considered excellent (>=15 nests). Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired. In addition, the condition of the fourwing saltbush communities and playas is a concern. Forest soils/hydrology reports indicate the Keota Steer has some sheet erosion occurring, and is not meeting forest plan soil standards in some areas. A recent pipeline was extended from the electric well in Sec 1 to the Double Barrel windmill in Sec 12. The Big Pipe overflow pond needs work. Railroad electric well in Section 11 is considered good.

Kibben Existing Condition: The Kibben allotment is approximately 1,361 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1,200; Sandy = 95 on southern part of allotment, and Overflow = 45 occurring in a SE direction through Section 9. Present management is a 2 pasture rotation with the fence splitting Sec 9, where the cattle move back and forth “every few weeks” from 5/15 – 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation includes buffalograss/blue grama with some crested wheatgrass. Inspections of this allotment indicate that most of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions; but riparian condition could be improved. Forest soils/hydrology reports identified localized wetlands (Sec 9) with evidence of detrimental soil compaction, hummocking, and impaired infiltration which would not meet Forest soil quality standards. This area provides habitat for the plains topminnow, as well as other wetland wildlife. In 2006, forest soils/hydrology monies were allocated to construct a 2.75 acre exclosure around the impacted area. Current PCGA member operating in this allotment is concerned that livestock rely on the ponds when the windmill doesn’t have adequate water supply. Currently, Canada thistle is being chemically treated on an annual basis in the older exclosed area near the windmill. The new exclosed area will likely need to be aggressively treated to prevent infestation by Canada thistle.

Klingensmith Existing Condition: The Klingensmith allotment is approximately 2,649 acres of NFS land, and 640 acres of waived land. The state land Section 36 is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 3130; with Sandy = 85 and Clayey = 85 primarily in the west Klingensmith. Present management divides the allotment into east and west units with a fence on the west boundary of NW1/4 of Section 25, with two PCGA operators in each unit grazing season long from 5/1 or 5/15 – 10/15. On the west side of the allotment, Sec 23 is considered “go-back” consisting predominantly of needle-and-thread grass. Towards the south end of the west side, blue grama and crested wheatgrass dominate. On the east side of the allotment, crested wheatgrass dominates in many areas, with other areas of blue grama and needle-and-thread grass. Much of the surrounding land use is CRP and


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native pasture. A prescribed fire burned 530 acres of Section 23 in the spring of 2005 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers that year were considered good (3-5 nests). Inspections of this allotment indicate that most of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions; but playa condition could be improved. The soils and precipitation patterns in this northern area of the Pawnee Unit are better than in other parts of the Pawnee Unit, and in general plant vigor is good. The Mule Shoe well in Section 31 and wells on the west unit are considered good, but not likely to support 4 combined herds on a daily basis. The Contour Well in Section 25 is marginal. On the east unit cattle tend to concentrate on the bottoms. Recently, diffuse knapweed was found in neighboring CRP land. The PNG is working with Weld County weed staff to address this problem. In 2006, the diffuse knapweed was chemically treated along the fenceline in both the East and West Klingensmith, and in the exclosed area near the windmill in the West Klingensmith. Aggressive survey and treatment efforts should continue for diffuse knapweed.

Lewis Existing Condition: The Lewis allotment is approximately 3,283 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1825 intermixed with Shallow Siltstone = 1,200; Gravel Breaks = 110, and Badland = 85. PCGA presently manages this allotment as two pastures, north (54 cow/calf pairs) and south (74 cow/calf pairs), grazed separately by two members season long from 5/15 -10/15. The prior AMP dated 1987 prescribed a one herd, four pasture deferred rotation system, but it is unclear why implementation did not fully occur. Dominant forage vegetation includes buffalograss/blue grama with some crested wheatgrass and “go back”. Badland sites support a cushion plant community, and deeper soils have fourwing saltbush. The playa in the south pasture can hold seasonal water. Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired. In addition, the condition of the playas is a concern. Forest soils/hydrology reports indicate the Lewis has some active gully erosion occurring, and is not meeting forest plan soil standards in some areas. Wells in this allotment are generally considered marginal and very limiting, and two have been re-drilled in the past. The windmill in Section 17 is not used, pipeline supplies water.

Liberty Existing Condition: The Liberty allotment is approximately 1,158 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 600 intermixed with Shallow Siltstone = 475, Badland = 55. A 52 acre exclosure exists on the border between sections 12 and 13 as a study area in the Badland site to determine if native vegetation would re-establish to control erosion. Past management included a switchback grazing system between the Liberty and the Lobb which was considered successful. Current management consists of a two pasture rotation from 6/1 – 8/1 and 8/1 – 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation includes buffalograss/blue grama with some four-wing saltbush and western wheatgrass. Surrounding land use is mostly short grass pastures. Current PCGA member who has operated in the allotment for a number of years has available resources to fall graze if this management is needed to achieve desired conditions. Inspections of this allotment indicate that this allotment may already be meeting desired condition; plant vigor and density are good.

Lobb Existing Condition: The Lobb allotment is approximately 400 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Shallow Siltstone = 260 intermixed with Loamy = 100, Badland = 40 in the lower SW corner of the allotment. Present and past management is season long grazing from 5/15 – 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation consists of blue grama, and crested wheat in the NE4 of Sec 4. A draw runs SE through the allotment with productive vegetation. Badlands in the SW corner contain paleontological resources. Surrounding land use is


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shortgrass pasture. The developed spring on private land on the north boundary creates potholes along the draw in years with high precipitation. Inspections of this allotment indicate that the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions. The windmill is considered good.

Lone Star Existing Condition: The Lone Star allotment is approximately 488 acres of NFS land, and 320 acres of waived land. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 645 intermixed with Sandy = 155; Gravel Breaks = 15. A wildlife exclosure and gravel pit exists in the NW1/4 of Section 7. Present management is season long grazing from 5/15 – 8/1, alternating with the Biggs and Tear depending on conditions. Although most of this allotment was historically seeded with crested wheatgrass, much of the allotment is now native short grasses. Inspections of this allotment indicate that the north part of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions.

Motis Existing Condition: The Motis allotment is approximately 3,553 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 3,300, and Gravel Breaks = 200 in the east half of the allotment. Current management involves 2 PCGA members and 3 existing pastures. Although herds have been commingled in the past, currently 1 herd grazes season long in the west pasture from 5/15 – 10/15. Generally, the other herd grazes the middle pasture from 5/15 – 7/4, moves to the east pasture from 7/4 - 8/31, back to the middle for a couple of weeks, then gate is opened between the two pastures until 10/15. Heavy oil and gas use affects cattle movement. Dominant forage vegetation consists of blue grama/buffalograss, with smaller area of crested wheatgrass and fourwing saltbush. In general, taller structure vegetation exists on the west side of the allotment. Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired. In addition, the condition of the fourwing saltbush communities is a concern, and plant vigor and density could be improved. Recent drought impacts seem to be more evident on this allotment over the past few years.

Port/Spur Existing Condition: The Port/Spur allotment is approximately 798 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 798. Current management consists of a grazing rotation with private land where NFS land is grazed between 6/1 – 8/1, by moving cattle every two weeks from the Port to the Spur, back to the Port (Section 30), then to the Port (Sections 24 and 25). Cattle are then moved through adjacent owned or leased pastures, then to the Line allotment which has no water and is not fully fenced. Dominant forage vegetation consists of blue grama/buffalo grass, with some western wheatgrass. The Spur has less desirable forage consisting of cheatgrass and fringed sage as a result of go-back conditions. Inspections of this allotment indicate that existing conditions may be meeting desired conditions. Plant vigor, density and playa condition are good, likely a result of the current rotation system. The well is considered good, but supplies nearly all of the water for the West Stoneham as well as for the Port/Spur.

Poston Existing Condition: The Poston allotment is approximately 546 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 475 intermixed with Limestone Breaks = 85 on the west half of the allotment. Current management is season long grazing from 5/15 – 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation consists of blue grama, western wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass. Inspections of this allotment indicate that existing conditions may be meeting desired conditions. Diffuse knapweed was recently found in the vicinity of this allotment. Careful attention should be paid in treating this noxious weed if found. The current well has improved with recent maintenance.

Sample Existing Condition: The Sample allotment is approximately 937 acres of NFS land.


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Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 937. Present management is season long grazing from 5/1 – 10/1, with use of salt tubs to move cattle. Historically, most of the allotment was reseeded with crested wheatgrass and western wheatgrass. Although structure is generally patchy throughout, the buffalo grass/blue grama is out-competing the wheatgrasses on the north and west sides of the allotment. The north half is terraced. A pothole along the south border of SE4 Sec 28 holds seasonal water. Surrounding land use is primarily CRP. Inspections of this allotment indicate that existing conditions may be meeting desired conditions, although the native shortgrasses are in an upward trend. Recently, diffuse knapweed was found in neighboring CRP land. The PNG is working with Weld County weed staff to address this problem. In 2006, the diffuse knapweed was chemically treated along the fenceline in the Sample. Aggressive treatment and survey efforts should continue. Wells are considered good, but cannot hold 60 head for more than a few days.

Simmons Existing Condition: North Simmons is approximately 3,256 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 2,160; with Sandy = 945 and Overflow = 70 in the northern half of the allotment. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss, western wheatgrass, and scattered crested wheatgrass where seeded. A fenced pasture exists south of Wild Horse Creek in the northern part of the allotment. Roads related to expanded oil and gas development is causing some conflict for PCGA members operating in this allotment. A prescribed fire burned 640 acres of Section 30 in the spring of 2004 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers that year were considered ok (1-2 nests). The South Simmons is approximately 1,545 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 885; with Shaly Plains = 495, Sandy = 60 and Overflow = 50. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss, western wheatgrass, and scattered crested wheatgrass where seeded, as in Section 33. The South Pawnee Creek runs through Sections 32 and 33, with dependable water present in the channels and potholes. A pasture is fenced on the east side of Section 33. During recent years, prairie dog towns have been expanding with drought and contracting with plague. The PCGA effectively manages the North and South Simmons as separate units with season long grazing from 5/15 – 10/15. There is a small northern fenced pasture that is utilized at various times of the year based on yearly analysis and inspection. The member operating in the South Simmons rotates to the extent possible with the pasture on the east side. Inspections of the North Simmons indicate it may already be meeting desired vegetative structural conditions. Bottomland vegetation along Wild Horse Creek, however, may be in poor condition. Inspections of the South Simmons indicate that this allotment may already be meeting desired vegetative structural conditions. Forest soils/hydrology reports indicate that gullies on the South Pawnee Creek are expanding as a result of bank sloughing, with resultant sedimentation and trampling creating deeper potholes that restrict normal stream flow. In 2006, ½ mile of fence along the north border of Section 32 experienced soil deposition due to unsound cultivation practices on private land directly north. It is uncertain if this will affect grazing capacity. The Gillam electric well in Section 48 receives heavy use as it supports nine tanks. A pipeline was constructed in 2005 connecting the Blow Out Well to the existing pipeline/tank in Section 26.

Sligo Existing Condition: The Sligo allotment is approximately 2,082 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1,225 intermixed with Sandy = 275, Shallow Siltstone = 140, Shaly Plains = 110, Badland = 95; and Gravel Breaks = 300 in the northern half of the allotment. Past and present management has been season long grazing from 6/1 - 10/15.


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Taller structure vegetation and better forage exists in the northern part (Sections 32 and 33), and cattle tend to concentrate in this area. Several areas in Section 6 have either been farmed or have experienced significant dust bowl erosion, and production is generally considered poorer. K. Everitt, a current PCGA member who has operated periodically in the Sligo allotment, is willing and able to winter graze if this management is needed to achieve desired conditions, and certain winter grazing conditions could be met (windbreaks, etc.). Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired. Availability and reliability of water is considered a problem in this allotment. The output of the Hill Side Well in Section 33 has diminished since it was drilled, and extending a pipeline off this well is not recommended as it can take one day to fill a ten ft. tank. Grazing is manageable at this time only if cattle can scatter across the allotment to find water.

South Existing Condition: The South allotment is approximately 2,711 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 2,525, Shaly Plains = 45, Clayey = 35, Salt Flat = 40, Sandstone Breaks = 50. Present and past management has been season long grazing from 6/1 – 10/15, but typically at actual use levels below that of historic grazing capacity estimates. The South is primarily a short grass pasture, with buffalo grass being more dominant than blue grama. Patches of western wheat grass exist in eastern quarter of Sections 27 and 30, and throughout the allotment. Mid structure grasses occur in the northern and southwestern parts of the allotment because of the further distance to water. Prickly pear cactus is abundant. A quarter section of CRP exists in SE4 Section 28. Numerous oil and gas structures and roads make cross fencing logistically difficult and expensive. Water improvements are limited and not very well dispersed in this allotment. The South electric well serves six tanks, including three tanks in the Keota allotment and only outputs 3 gal/min. A prescribed fire burned 640 acres in Sections 29 and 30 in the spring of 2004 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers that year were considered good (3-5 nests). A prescribed fire burned 640 acres of Sections 27 and 34 in the spring of 2006 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers that year were considered ok (1-2 nests). Two prairie dog towns have expanded in recent years. Various inspections of this allotment indicate that existing conditions are meeting desired conditions. Plant vigor and density are good, likely a result of reduced stocking and/or later turn on date. The location of the western playa lends itself to minimal impact from cattle due to its distance from water. Although it held water more continuously in the past, it has been many years since this playa has been a reliable source of water.

Tappy Existing Condition: The Tappy allotment is approximately 568 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 485; with Badland = 25, Gravel Breaks = 25, and Shallow Siltstone = 40 on the east half of the allotment. Current management is season long grazing from 5/15 – 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation consists of blue grama/buffalo grass, and fourwing saltbush on the flats. An exclosure exists in the SW1/4 of Section 21. Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired. Fourwing saltbush communities could be improved. Water is piped from the Lewis allotment.

Two Mile Existing Condition: The Two Mile allotment is approximately 1,467 acres of NFS land, and 292 acres of waived land. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 860; with Shallow Siltstone = 500 and Badland = 375 concentrated in Sections 31 and 32; Gravel Breaks = 25 and Sandy Bottomland = 100. Present management is season long grazing from 6/1 – 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation consists of blue rama/buffalo


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grass. Two Mile creek runs through the southern end of the allotment, but has been dry for the last 2 years putting additional pressure on the wells. Inspections of the allotment indicate it may already be meeting desired vegetative structural conditions; however soils and vegetation along Two Mile Creek could be managed for better condition. Forest soils/hydrology reports indicate the Two Mile shows signs of accelerated soil erosion in Badland areas. Scattered along the riparian area, there appears to be several species of thistle, including Canada thistle and native thistles. More detailed on-the-ground study is needed before chemical treatment is applied. The well in Section 32 is marginal, and the well in Section 30 is good after re-drilling several years ago.

Vim Existing Condition: The Vim allotment is approximately 3126 acres of NFS land, and 320 acres of waived land. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1,525 intermixed with Sandy = 440, Clayey = 50, and Limestone Breaks = 1,425. Present management consists of 2 PCGA members and 4 pastures. One member rotates primarily on the east side of the allotment grazing from 6/1 – 10/15, and the other member rotates primarily on the west side of the allotment from 5/15 – 10/25. The central pasture is periodically shared. Both members are agreeable testing alternative rotations. Dominant forage vegetation consists of blue grama/buffalo grass, needle-and-thread grass, with smaller areas of western wheatgrass and crested wheatgrass. Patches of larkspur exist in low, wet depressions throughout the allotment. Several cultural sites exist. A CSU range class used this allotment for a study site in 2005, see document in file for details. Inspections of this allotment indicate that short structure vegetation may be somewhat more abundant than what is desired. In addition, the condition of the playas could benefit from improved management. In general, plant vigor and density is good, likely a result of rotation and later turn on date. Generally, wells in this allotment are good.

West Stoneham Existing Condition: The West Stoneham allotment is approximately 2,304 acres of NFS land, and 363 acres of waived land. The private land is managed as part of the allotment under the PCGA exchange of use/credit agreement. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 2,190 intermixed with Sandy = 500 in the northern half of the allotment. Past and present management is one PCGA member grazing season long from 5/15 – 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation consists of blue grama/buffalograss, with areas of crested wheatgrass, sand dropseed and fringed sage. Generally, mid-tall structure vegetation exists in the northern part of the allotment near the rock outcroppings and in draws, and the shorter structure vegetation is in the southern part of the allotment. During recent years, 2 prairie dog towns have been expanding with drought and contracting with plague, and vegetation in Section 22 has been heavily impacted. A prescribed fire burned 760 acres of Sections 23 and 26 in the spring of 2004 for plover habitat. Surveys of nesting response of plovers that year were considered ok (1-2 nests). This allotment has a designated Forest Plan Category 3.1 Special Interest Area Management Area in the north eastern part of the allotment. Two wildlife exclosures and a number of abandoned cisterns exist. Inspections of this allotment indicate that existing conditions may be meeting desired structural vegetation conditions, although plant vigor and density could be improved. The windmill in Section 22 is considered marginal, and the rest of the water is provided by pipeline from the Port allotment electric well. In 2006, 2 new bottom wires and several posts were replaced on ¾ mile fence on the southern end of Section 35 in response to prescribed fire damage. Also in 2006, CP monies replaced an 8’ tank with a 21’ tank on the NE1/4 border of Section 28.

Wharton-Fuss Existing Condition: The Wharton-Fuss allotment is approximately 1,661 acres of NFS land.


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Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1,125 intermixed with Sandy = 75 and Shallow Siltstone = 460. For a number of years, the Wharton-Fuss allotment has been rotated with the Buck allotment, located 5 miles directly south. Two PCGA members run combined herds, which typically separate from each other. Depending on conditions, the Buck is grazed from 5/15 – 8/1 then cattle are driven to the Wharton-Fuss from 8/1 – 10/15. The allotment has a sizable fourwing saltbush community in Sec 23, and seeded crested wheatgrass in Sec 15 and throughout. Mineral tubs have been successfully used to pull the cattle off water. A prescribed fire burned 830 acres of Sections 14 and 15 in the Wharton-Fuss in the spring of 2004 for plover habitat. Surveys found no nesting response from plovers that year. Inspections of this allotment indicate that this allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions. As the fourwing saltbush is better adapted to winter use, this plant community could benefit from limited summer grazing. The wells are considered marginal.

Wye Existing Condition: The Wye allotment is approximately 689 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 640, Salt Flat = 25. Past and present management has been season long grazing from 5/15 – 10/15. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss. Prickly pear cactus is abundant. Mid-tall vegetation structure exists along road 390, near the drainage and playa; and near the playa in the SE1/4 NFS land of Section 24. Some crested wheat exists in the SE1/4 of Section 23. Inspections of this allotment indicate that most of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions, but playa condition could be improved. Recently, the well in the Wye has been having maintenance problems.

Youngland Existing Condition: The Youngland allotment is approximately 2,168 acres of NFS land. Approximate acres in dominant ecological sites: Loamy = 1,365 intermixed with Sandy = 230 and Limestone Breaks = 570. Present management is 2 PCGA members season long grazing from 5/15 – 10/15, with herds that typically stay separate from each other in the east vs. the south and west part of the allotment. Dominant forage vegetation includes blue grama/buffalograss, with areas of crested wheatgrass, western wheatgrass, and needle-and-thread grass. Taller structure vegetation exists in the draws and in Section 28 where utilization is light due to distance from water. A playa exists in the SW4 of Sec 22 and only briefly retains seasonal water. Inspections of this allotment indicate that most of the allotment may already be meeting desired structural conditions; but playa condition could be improved. Wells are considered adequate to marginal, and water in NW4 of Sec 21 is piped from the Allan. Water in inadequate in Sec 28. Diffuse knapweed was recently found in the vicinity of this allotment. Careful attention should be paid in treating this noxious weed if found.

PCGA Winter Use Allotments

Winter use allotments are small and/or isolated tracts of federal land commingled with larger tracts of

private land that form a natural grazing unit. The following 38 allotments are currently winter use

allotments of the PCGA with the approximate federal acreage. Short structure grasses are usually blue

grama and buffalograss. Mid-Tall grasses are typically western wheatgrass, needle grasses,

occasionally little bluestem, big bluestem, sand dropseed and rarely, prairie sand reed.

Table 3: PCGA Winter Use Allotments – Existing Condition


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Allotment Total FS Acreage

Existing Condition

Andy 573 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Arrow See narrative for Bluff/Arrow above

Biggs 678 Primarily Tall Structure grasses/forbs

Cat 315 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Craig 313 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Cup 48 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Fawn 117 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Geer 486 Short Structure/Mid-tall Structure 50/50%

Gulch/Hatch/Shep 116 Primarily Tall Structure

Gus 319 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Heiber 799 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs, degraded riparian

Hill 117 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Hoff 129 Primarily Tall Structure grasses/forbs

Hub 138 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Igo 636 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs, poor condition of fourwing saltbush

Jug See narrative for Bourlier above

Land 305 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Line See narrative for Port/Spur above

Mark 76 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Max 359 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Nicklas 1268 Short Structure/Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs 60/40%

O’Hare 41 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Ole 79 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Owens 312 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Rauth 151 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Rim 1448 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs, degraded riparian in south on private land

Roberts 528 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Rohn 428 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Ross 157 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Sage 652 Short Structure/Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs 70/30%

Snader 20 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Squaw 283 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Sumner 243 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Tear 162 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Thor 308 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Tower 314 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Vista 37 Primarily Mid-Tall Structure grasses/forbs Walker 322 Primarily Mid-Tall Structure grasses/forbs

These allotments are administered through the association as on/off permits or with a private term

permit depending on the percentage of forage within the unit that is contributed by the federal acreage.

While there is a responsibility to be appraised of the conditions on these acreages, because of their

isolated position, small acreage, access permission requirements, and limited range staffing resources,

these lands are rarely evaluated. Occasional inspections have shown these acres to generally be


32

occupied by a blue grama/buffalograss dominated community with a variety of minor grasses and forbs

typical of the PNG.

Allotments with Term Grazing Permits issued by the Forest Service with On/Off Provisions

These allotments contain very isolated tracts of FS lands that are enclosed by private land which the

grazing association is unable to administer through the grazing agreement. All of the term permits

associated with these allotments are on-off permits, meaning the FS lands represent less than 1/3 of the

acreage of the pasture they are in. While there is a responsibility to be appraised of the conditions on

these acreage, because of their isolated position, small acreage and limited range staffing resources,

these lands are rarely evaluated. Occasional inspections have shown these acres to generally be

occupied by a shortgrass

dominated community with a variety of minor grasses and forbs typical of the PNG. Short structure

grasses are usually blue grama and buffalograss. Mid-Tall grasses are typically western wheatgrass,

needle grasses, occasionally little bluestem, big bluestem, sand dropseed and rarely, prairie sand reed.

Table 4: Direct Issue Permitted Allotments – Existing Condition

On/Off Allotment Total FS Acreage

Existing Condition

Best 159 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Burns 42 Primarily Tall Structure grasses/forbs

Castor 82 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Cedar 41 Primarily Tall Structure grasses/forbs

Dolan 52 Primarily Tall Structure grasses/forbs

Domain 247 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Halsey 121 Primarily Mid-tall Structure grasses/forbs

Isolate 81 Primarily Tall Structure grasses/forbs, fourwing saltbush in good condition

Keiser 1552 Short/Mid-Tall Structure 30/70%, chalk bluffs good condition

Nay 40 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Nelson 39 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Shable 41 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Sprague 124 Short/Mid- Tall Structure grasses/forbs 50/50%

Stanley 119 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Timmerman 435 Primarily Short Structure grasses/forbs

Uhl 167 Primarily Tall Structure grasses/forbs, riparian in good condition

Resource Components: Desirable range condition (meeting or moving towards Allotment

Management Plan desire condition; Allotment carrying capacity; Economic impacts to grazing

permittees.


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How Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Impacts on Range were Considered

Making lands available for oil and gas leasing and the subsequent leasing of available lands does not

involve any direct effects on range. As a result of making lands available for oil and gas leasing, any

subsequent leasing would be considered an indirect effect. Leasing is a commitment of the resource

for potential future exploration and development activities, but leasing does not compel or authorize

any ground disturbing actions in support of the exploration or development of a lease. As a result of

leasing, future exploration and development proposals could be brought forward that would be subject

to additional site specific environmental study and permitting requirements.

Alternative Background: Three alternatives will be examined for the PNG Oil and Gas Leasing

Analysis EIS. These are:

(1) No New Leasing; (2) No Action, Leasing under the Forest Plan; (3) Leasing under No

Surface Occupancy (NSO).

No alternatives specifically propose the exploration or development of oil and gas resources.

Therefore the leasing analysis relies on a Reasonably Foreseeable Development Scenario (RFDS),

which projects future potential surface disturbing activities and provides a development scenario that

has been determined to be reasonable on the proposed available lands. However, this scenario is not

necessarily foreseeable and is dependent on future industry interest, access, market values and many

other factors. Total disturbance acreage for the RFDS was estimated at 960 acres. No alternatives

specifically propose the exploration or development of oil and gas resources.

Any future exploration or development of oil and gas resources, if and when it does occur, would

result in impacts. Potential future impacts by noxious weeds to the range resource could result if

reasonable foreseeable future actions were to occur. Thus, the potential future impacts are disclosed

by using the Reasonably Foreseeable Development Scenario estimates by alternative as part of the

cumulative effects analysis.

Indirect Effects

Alternatives 1 and 3 involve zero acres thus removing the potential for noxious weeds and other

impacts with the implementation of an oil and gas development program. Alternative 2 could

produce future impacts from noxious weeds based on the 960 or less acres of disturbance described in

the RFDS by exposing bare ground to noxious weed invasion. The projected number of initial (gross)

acres of disturbance based on the ARP RFDS estimate of the average number of wells and related

facilities including roads, is as follows:

Alternative 1, No New Leasing:

0 acres.


34

Alternative 2, No Action, Leasing under current Forest Plan:

Something less than 960 acres.

Alternative 3, Leasing under NSO:

0 Acres.

As shown, Alternative 2 would have the most potential of affecting amount of forage over a 40-50

year period, which represents the life of the well and a rehabilitation period. The initial (gross)

acreage figure is used to depict the amount of vegetation that would be removed without

compensating for partial reclaimed lands that could be grazed. The area under interim reclamation on

well pads is fenced to prevent livestock grazing until that vegetation is capable of sustaining annual

grazing. Portions of roads and pipelines that are not needed for travel are reclaimed using an

authorized seed mix. Those areas can be grazed by cattle since corridors are generally not fenced.

Indirect Impacts Common to All Alternatives on Range

The indirect impacts of the alternatives will result from the projected future oil and gas development

following leasing. That development will result in surface disturbance and activities that could

adversely affect range and grazing resources.

Some of the indirect impacts would be the loss of forage associated with construction of oil and gas

industry facilities such as well pads and roads as projected in the RFDS. Oil and gas development

could lead to increased traffic which may affect livestock distribution, impede livestock travel, and

affect access to livestock facilities. All of these potential impacts to the livestock operation lead to

reduced grazing opportunities and an inability to properly implement and sustain Allotment

Management Plan objectives.

The vegetation type and amount that would be removed cannot be quantified without knowing the

location of future well pads, roads and other facilities. The amount of vegetation necessary to provide

a head month of grazing is based on variable vegetation types which are not evenly spread across the

PNG. The projected future development as projected in the RFDS would reduce the land area and

forage capability dependent on the proposed site.

However, 960 acres, as maximum acres of disturbance, only represents approximately .5 % of the

acreage on the PNG that is under a grazing permit. The level of disturbance is insignificant when

applied across the whole PNG and would not affect the carrying capacity of the range unless those acres

were concentrated within one grazing unit so that an excess of 20% of the allotment was removed from

grazing when combined with other effects. Annual fluctuations in forage production because of

weather changes in spring and summer rains averages about 10%, which is a 20 times greater impact


35

than 960 acres of man-made surface disturbance. Therefore, under the present working scenario, none

of the Alternatives will have any significant effort on livestock grazing or range resources on the PNG.

Cumulative Impacts Common to All Alternatives on Range Past actions from oil and gas development from constructing gas wells, roads, and pipelines contribute

to the cumulative impact. The amount of initial (gross) surface disturbance shown above for the

potential future disturbance would also result as a cumulative impact.

One natural disturbance that is present under all Alternatives is the variable, cumulative effect of prairie

dog colonies on forage production with oil and gas disturbances within a grazing unit. While there is

still little published information on the effect of prairie dogs on forage production, one paper indicates

that at 20% of pasture occupancy by prairie dogs a reduction in calf gain of about 5.5% can be expected

(Derner, et al, 2005). This was loosely correlated to a changing plant community on the prairie dog

colony, but more extensive research is needed to confirm the findings of this study. The data for this

document was collected on the PNG and the adjacent Central Plains Experimental Range. This

disturbance is also a variable as prairie dog colonies expand during dry seasons and contract or

disappear during wetter periods as a result of plague. Perhaps this disturbance can only be associated

with oil and gas development at a “point in time” of construction within a grazing unit and the size of

the prairie dog colony. The prairie dog colonies actually create a far greater disturbance area than oil

and gas development and the presence of several acres of oil and gas disturbance within a grazing unit

is still insignificant. Only by placing many 10’s of acres within a single grazing unit containing a

prairie dog colony occupying close to 20 % of the unit would there be an effect on carrying capacity

resulting in a decrease in livestock grazing or a shortened grazing season. That circumstance may arise,

though probably rare, and can be addressed programmatically within the ADP as Conditions of

Approval.

Approximately 39,000 acres of private and federal land exist within PNG grazing allotment boundaries.

The FS has no ability to enforce COA’s on this acreage. However, the impact will be minimal since

ground disturbance associated with this acreage will be less than .5% of the PNG and not change

grazing carrying capacities nor the plant community.

All of the cumulative impacts resulting from the loss of forage from constructing oil and gas well pads,

roads and pipelines would eventually be eliminated due to final reclamation.

NOXIOUS WEEDS


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Introduction

How the Analysis was Approached Noxious weeds are officially designated as non-native plant species that are invasive and/or can

become monocultures. These non-native species can cause harm to land value, native ecology,

agricultural interests, wildlife habitat, livestock forage, riparian resources, and aesthetic and visual

values of land. While noxious weeds are not a “resource”, they present a potential negative effect on

endemic plant and animal species of our range and botanical resources.

Noxious weed populations have remained fairly constant in the last two decades due to an aggressive

weeds management program. However, increased human activity appears to be providing additional

vectors for establishment of new outbreaks of noxious weeds. The number of noxious weed species

that the PNG treats annually has increased. Non-native noxious weeds are very opportunistic and

tend to invade where soil disturbance activities take place. Current Management Direction

The 1997 Forest Plan Revision for the ARP lists the following Standards and Guidelines for Noxious

Weeds.

Standards:

1. Control undesirable nonnative and noxious plants throughout the Forests, with priority given to

new species (new to Colorado or the ARNF-PNG), and to wilderness areas.

2. Use only certified “noxious weed-free” hay or straw for feed or re-vegetation projects anywhere

on the ARNF-PNG.

3. For all proposed projects or activities, determine the risk of noxious weed introduction or

spread, and implement appropriate mitigation measures.

Guidelines:

1. Develop a noxious-weed and pest-management program that addresses awareness,

prevention, inventory, planning, treatment, monitoring, reporting, and management

objectives.

Priorities for controlling noxious weeds are:

1. new invaders.

2. new areas

3. spreading or expanding infestations

4. existing infestations

The ARP developed and implemented in 2003 the “ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT NATIONAL

FORESTS AND PAWNEE NATIONAL GRASSLAND NOXIOUS WEED MANAGEMENT

PLAN”. This plan is designed to fulfill the Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines listed above and


37

contains specific instructions on how to accomplish objectives needed for effective noxious weed

management. The objectives are listed below:

A. Conduct a programmatic standardized inventory of noxious weed infestations. Ensure

that this inventory is complete and includes site, weed, and ecological relationship data

leading to sound IWM decision-making. Update the inventory as needed with new

inventory and monitoring data. All data will be recorded in a Geographical Information

System (GIS) database. The data will be used in developing prevention and treatment

strategies for all resource activities.

B. Expansion of noxious weeds is a dynamic process. Existing infestations of weeds can

continue to spread and new infestations can become established. Implement a timely,

adaptive, and integrated approach to reduce the spread of noxious weeds.

C. Develop and implement a noxious weed education and awareness program for the

Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grasslands (Forests and

Grassland).

D. Develop prevention strategies and measures for use in all projects that could cause spread

of noxious weeds. Include education and awareness.

E. Treat areas of new and established infestations, using a combination of methods. Acres

treated will be based on ecosystem needs, Forest Plan goals, and information from new

inventories, new infestations, and cooperative projects with landowners, the State of

Colorado, counties, and cities.

F. Manage noxious weeds to detect invaders and apply an early treatment strategy to control

seed production. Apply prevention, correction, maintenance, or non-treatment strategies

as appropriate to properly manage established infestations.

G. Cooperate and share data with city, county, state, and other federal agencies and local

communities to ensure early detection of potential invaders, to prevent spread of

potential invaders, and to cooperate in treatment of established infestations that cross

jurisdictional boundaries.

H. Ensure continued full public involvement with the noxious weed program through

cooperation and continued notification of noxious weed treatments.

I. Implement monitoring, evaluation, and reporting programs to track prevention and

treatment activities and to determine the effectiveness of such practices.

Affected Environment

The PNG’s 193,000 acres are a part of the short-grass steppe of the south-central Great Plains and

serves as habitat for a wide range of plains wildlife and plant species. The ecosystem level approach to

conserving biodiversity is accomplished by managing the overall composition and structure of


38

vegetation that provides habitats for the majority of the species commonly found on the PNG. Non-

native noxious weeds possess the ability to upset this balance of biodiversity which can adversely

affect the habitats of many plant, animal, and aquatic species.

With the exception of a few riparian areas the PNG can best be considered a blue grama/buffalograss

sod with cool season remnants plant community as described by the Natural Resource Conservation

Service in their ecological site descriptions. Blue grama and buffalograss are abundant, dominate the

community, and frequently take on a sod appearance. Other key species are green needlegrass,

western wheatgrass, American vetch, fourwing saltbush, and winterfat. Sand dropseed, red threeawn,

sixweeks fescue, plains pricklypear, hairy goldaster and bottlebrush squirreltail are also present.

Total annual bioproduction can vary from 200 to 900 pounds of air-dry vegetation per acre and will

average 700 pounds during an average year.

The ARP has adopted the Colorado State weed list as their official weed list. The State of Colorado

maintains an official state list of designated noxious weed species. Weeds are prioritized on three lists

(Classes A, B, and C) depending on noxious and invasive tendencies.

Class A species are noxious weeds that have the potential to pose a significant threat to local

economies, ecosystems, and habitats. Class A species currently are not present in the state or have a

limited distribution; preventing invasions and eradicating existing infestations is the highest priority.

The Colorado Noxious Weed List A species designated by the Commissioner for eradication includes

the following:

African rue (Peganum harmala)

Camelthorn (Alhagi pseudalhagi)

Common crupina (Crupina vulgaris)

Cypress spurge (Euphorbia cyparissias)

Dyer's woad (Isatis tinctoria)

Giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta)

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata)

Meadow knapweed (Centaurea pratensis)

Mediterranean sage (Salvia aethiopis)

Medusahead (Taeniatherum caput- medusae)

Myrtle spurge (Euphorbia myrsinites)

Orange hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiacum)

Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)

Rush skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea)

Sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata)

Squarrose knapweed (Centaurea virgata)


39

Tansy ragwort (Senecio jacobaea)

Yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis)

Class B weeds are species that are limited to portions of the state. The Colorado Noxious Weed List

B are species the Commissioner, in consultation with the state noxious weed advisory committee,

local governments, and other interested parties, develop and implement state noxious weed

management plans. In areas with severe infestations, management plans should be designed to contain

the infestation and prevent further spread. The List B species includes the following:

Absinth wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)

Black henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)

Bouncingbet (Saponaria officinalis)

Bull thistle (Cirsium vulgare)

Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense)

Chinese clematis (Clematis orientalis)

Common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

Common teasel (Dipsacus fullonum)

Corn chamomile (Anthemis arvensis)

Cutleaf teasel (Dipsacus laciniatus)

Dalmatian toadflax, broad-leaved

(Linaria dalmatica)

Dalmatian toadflax, narrow-leaved

(Linaria genistifolia)

Dame's rocket (Hesperis matronalis)

Diffuse knapweed (Centaurea diffusa)

Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum)

Hoary cress (Cardaria draba)

Houndstongue (Cynoglossum officinale)

Jointed goatgrass (Aegilops cylindrica)

Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula)

Mayweed chamomile (Anthemis cotula)

Moth mullein (Verbascum blattaria)

Musk thistle (Carduus nutans)

Oxeye daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum)

Perennial pepperweed (Lepidium latifolium)

Plumeless thistle (Carduus acanthoides)

Quackgrass (Elytrigia repens)

Russian knapweed (Acroptilon repens)


40

Russian-olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia)

Salt cedar (Tamarix chinensis, T.parviflora, and T. ramosissima)

Scentless chamomile (Matricaria perforata)

Scotch thistle (Onopordum acanthium)

Scotch thistle (Onopordum tauricum)

Spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa)

Spurred anoda (Anoda cristata)

Sulfur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta)

Venice mallow (Hibiscus trionum)

Wild caraway (Carum carvi)

Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus)

Yellow toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) Class C weeds are species that are widespread throughout the state. Management decisions for these

species should be determined at the local level based on feasibility of control and severity of

infestation. List C weed species are species for which the Commissioner, in consultation with the state

noxious weed advisory committee, local governments, and other interested parties, will develop and

implement state noxious weed management plans designed to support the efforts of local governing

bodies to facilitate more effective integrated weed management on private and public lands. The goal

of such plans will not be to stop the continued spread of these species but to provide additional

education, research, and biological control resources to jurisdictions that choose to require

management of List C species. The List C species include the following:

Chicory (Cichorium intybus)

Common burdock (Arctium minus)

Common mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Common St. Johnswort (Hypericum perforatum)

Downy brome (Bromus tectorum)

Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis)

Halogeton (Halogeton glomeratus)

Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense)

Perennial sowthistle (Sonchus arvensis)

Poison hemlock (Conium maculatum)

Puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris)

Redstem filaree (Erodium cicutarium)

Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti)

Wild proso millet (Panicum miliaceum)


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Existing Conditions

Annual surveys are used to calculate the approximate acres of noxious weed infestations established on

the PNG. A map is not used here because of the size of the infestations are so few acreages

individually that they would not show clearly on a map scaled to fit on these pages. Listed here are the

most current noxious weeds acreages available:

Table 5: Current Noxious Weed Acreage recorded on PNG

Noxious Weed Species Acreage

Wormwood 98

Perennial Pepperweed 4.5

Canada Thistle 158

Dalmatian Toadflax 25

Knapweed (diffuse or Russian)

150

Musk Thistle 35

Scotch Thistle 54

Hoarycress 114

These acreages are treated on an annual basis with results being tracked and recorded.

Alternative Background: Three alternatives will be examined for the PNG Oil and Gas Leasing

Analysis EIS. These are:

(1) No New Leasing; (2) No Action, Leasing under the Forest Plan; (3) Leasing under NSO;

No alternatives specifically propose the exploration or development of oil and gas resources. For this

reason, the leasing analysis relies on a Reasonably Foreseeable Development Scenario, which projects

future potential surface disturbing activities This scenario is dependent on future industry interest,

access, market values, and other factors. No alternatives specifically propose the exploration or

development of oil and gas resources. However, this scenario is not necessarily foreseeable and is

dependent on future industry interest, access, market values, and many other factors.

Any future exploration or development of oil and gas resources, if and when it does occur, would

result in impacts. Potential future impacts by noxious weeds to the range resource could result if

reasonable foreseeable future actions were to occur. Thus, the potential future impacts are disclosed

by using the Reasonably Foreseeable Development Scenario estimates by alternative as part of the

cumulative effects analysis.

Alternatives 1 and 3 involve zero acres of FS Lands thus removing the potential for noxious weeds

impact with the implementation of an oil and gas development program. Alternative 2 could

produce future impacts from noxious weeds based on up to 960 acres of disturbance described in the

Reasonably Foreseeable Development Scenario.


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How Indirect Effects and Cumulative Impacts by Noxious Weeds

were Considered

Making lands available for oil and gas leasing and the subsequent leasing of available lands does not

involve any direct effects on noxious weeds. As a result of making lands available for oil and gas

leasing, any subsequent leasing would be considered an indirect effect. Leasing is a commitment of the

resource for potential future exploration and development activities, but leasing does not compel or

authorize any ground disturbing actions in support of the exploration or development of a lease. As a

result of leasing, future exploration and development proposals could be brought forward that would be

subject to additional site specific environmental study and permitting requirements.

Indirect Effects

Implementation of Alternative 1 would cause no potential impacts by noxious weeds since no

disturbances would be created. Alternative 2 would allow for an oil and gas development program

that would disturb up to an estimated 960 acres, presenting an opportunity for noxious weed

invasion. Alternative 3 can have a potential threat for noxious weed invasion as the ground

disturbance on the private land adjacent or proximal to the PNG may become a site for noxious

weeds. From that site it’s possible to have spread of noxious weeds to the PNG via a variety of

vectors: wind, animals or human activity including vehicle movement. Vectors for noxious weed

invasion include oil and gas industry vehicles unknowingly transporting noxious weed seeds that

can be dispersed and germinate along any route used to travel to and from oil and gas

infrastructure; those roads may go through FS Lands (most likely county roads) though the facility

is not on FS Land.

Indirect Effects Common to All Alternatives on Noxious

Weeds

Allowing invasive species to flourish in these disturbed areas holds the potential for further spread.

This potential spread of noxious weeds into native range, if allowed to become extensive, would

result in the decrease in plant biodiversity and increase the potential for fire with some species. Oil

and gas development activities such as access roads, pipelines, facilities and well pad construction all

create optimum environments for noxious weed establishment and spread. Increased travel by oil

field industry vehicles on the PNG may serve as a vector for noxious weed establishment even if

decontamination methods are rigorously implemented.


43

Indirect impacts to vegetation from weed infestations may include reduced structural and species

diversity, loss of wildlife habitat, increased soil erosion, and loss of rangeland productivity. Indirect

impacts resulting from weed infestations may include changes in the wildland fire cycle and increased

economic costs from weed management efforts.

Cumulative Effects

The disturbances created by oil and gas activities, including well pad construction, infrastructure

construction and pipeline construction, could add to other activities that create the potential for noxious

weed invasion such as: recreational vehicle use that acts as a vector for noxious weed seeds, weather

patterns that promote noxious weed seed spread, wildland fire, and animal dispersion of noxious weed

seeds. The FS cannot enforce COA’s on state and private lands or NFS lands with private mineral rights

so noxious weeds could develop on these lands and spread even if the Colorado Oil and Gas

Conservation Commission (COGCC) requires weed control on oil and gas infrastructure.

Mitigation

The PNG weeds management program under the existing cumulative effects currently treats

approximately 150 acres of noxious weeds and surveys approximately 500—600 acres annually across

the 193,000 acres of the PNG. Noxious weed infestation acreages represent a very small percentage of

the PNG total acreage. An additional 960 acres of disturbance is a small increase when compared to the

193,000 acres of the PNG and with implementation of sound noxious weed management practices as

programmatic part of the APDs will create only a small potential for a negative impact to the range and

botany resources.

Proper precautions and implementation of a noxious weeds management program for oil and gas

development need to occur, such as cleaning equipment, using certified weed free seed and mulch, re-

vegetating, monitoring, and treating infected, disturbed areas. Otherwise those disturbed areas will be

prone to invasion by noxious weeds.

Rare Plants Introduction

The purpose of this biological evaluation is to document the effects analysis and determine the likely

effects of the alternatives on species listed under the Endangered Species Act (1973 [as amended]), Forest

Service sensitive species (Forest Service Manual 2670.31-2670.32). ). Section 7(a) (1) of the ESA requires

Federal agencies to use their authorities to further the conservation of listed species. Section 7(a) (2)

requires that Federal agencies ensure any action they authorize, fund, or carry out is not likely to


44

jeopardize the continued existence of ESA-listed species, or destroy or adversely modify designated

critical habitat.

It was prepared in accordance with Forest Service Manual direction to review all Forest Service activities to

ensure that such activities do not contribute to a downward trend in population numbers or density of

sensitive species and/or documents how this project meets National Forest Management Act (NFMA 1976)

requirements; to provide for diversity of plant communities; to document the effects on these rare plant

species (36 CFR 219.19(a)(1). Furthermore, this document describes the measurable effects of this activity

on rare plant habitat and the plant species that rely upon those habitats as required under the National

Environmental Policy Act, the Revised Land & Resource Management Plan for the Arapaho & Roosevelt

National Forest and Pawnee National Grassland (USDA 1997), and relevant Species-Specific Conservation

Agreements.

The Forest Plan guides management activities that may occur on the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests

and Pawnee National Grassland (ARNF/PNG) and determines suitability for proposed activities. All management

actions must be consistent with the Forest Plan. The Forest Plan identifies Forest-wide direction aimed at

protecting and perpetuating biodiversity and threatened, endangered, and sensitive species and other rare

plants and communities on the ARP. The desired condition for sensitive plants is to maintain and/or establish

an upward trend through management activities that recognize habitat needs across all levels or scales. Rare

plants are a component of biodiversity and thus a component of the goal of managing the Forests and

Grassland to assure productive, healthy ecosystems (USDA Forest Service 1997). The proposed oil and gas

leasing EIS is consistent with Forest Plan direction for biodiversity and federally listed and Region 2 Sensitive

plant species (USDA Forest Service 1997).

Affected Environment Elevations range from 4,500 to 5,500 feet above mean sea level (amsl). Climate is largely influenced

by geographic factors, including the area’s mid-latitude position, relatively high elevations, interior

continental location, and proximity to the Rocky Mountains. Precipitation averages 9 to 17 inches

annually, with 80 percent occurring during the growing season (USDA Forest Service 1997). The

landscape is interspersed with playas and intermittent stream-course potholes that temporarily fill with

water following large precipitation events (USDA Forest Service 1997). Vegetation communities are

associated with short- and mid-grass prairie that primarily consists of blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) –

buffalograss (Buchloe dactyloides) communities interspersed with shrub communities dominated by

fourwing saltbush (Atriplex canescens) (Lauenroth 2008).

Exiting Conditions

Vegetation within the project area can be separated into six habitat types: open steppe, sandy soils,

breaks and barrens, cliffs and ravines, riparian, and roadside and disturbed soils (Hazlett 1998). Open

steppe is the predominant habitat type within the project area, characterized by blue grama,


45

buffalograss, purple threeawn (Aristida purpurea), pricklypear cactus (Opuntia polyacantha), and

prairie sagewort (Artemisia frigida). Sandy soil habitat frequently occurs along dry creek beds, in

stream terraces, and near some hilltops, characterized by sand sagebrush (Artemisia filifolia) and

soapweed yucca (Yucca glauca). Breaks and barrens habitat is found on barren siltstone or in areas

with abundant rock or gravel. It is characterized by areas with minimal soil development dominated by

cushion plants including Hooker’s sandwort (Arenaria hookeri), Hood’s phlox (Phlox hoodii), tufted

milkvetch (Astragalus spatulatus), fewflower buckwheat (Eriogonum pauciflorum), and mountain

cryptantha (Cryptantha cana). Cliffs and ravines habitat is characterized by native woody species that

occur in the shade of cliffs or ravines. Common plant species include Rocky Mountain juniper

(Juniperus scopulorum), chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), skunkbush sumac (Rhus trilobata), and

currant (Ribes spp.). Riparian areas are minimal within the proposed project area and generally only

have water following meltdown of snowpack or after a large precipitation event (Hazlett 1998). Areas

with more persistent water are typically characterized by cottonwood (Populus deltoides) and sandbar

willow (Salix exigua), with forb compositions dependent on water availability. Roadside and disturbed

soil habitats are characterized by ruderal plant species that establish following road maintenance and

other disturbances, including showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) and common sunflower

(Helianthus annuus).

Pre-field review

A pre-field review was conducted for all rare plant species potentially occurring in, or known to occur nearby,

the proposed project area. The review effort focused on proposed, threatened, and endangered species known

to or believed to occur in Colorado and all Forest Service Region-2 sensitive plant species listed in the Region 2

Manual Supplement (Regional Supplement 2600-2013-1 to FSM 2670). The United States Fish and Wildlife

Service (USFWS) Information, Planning, and Conservation System (http://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/) reports that there

are two federally listed plant species that are known to or are believed to occur in the planning area.

Two threatened plant species are listed for the ARP that may occur on the PNG. No endangered and

proposed plant species are known or suspected to exist on the PNG. Ute ladies’-tresses (Spiranthes

diluvialis) and Colorado butterfly plant (Gaura neomexicana ssp. coloradensis) habitats depend

primarily on wetland and/or sub-irrigated fields adjacent to perennial waters that remain moist through

most of the growing season (Fertig 2000; Fertig et al. 2005). Although the project area is interspersed

with several intermittent stream-course potholes (USDA Forest Service 1997), there are very few

perennial streams that have the underflow, recharge, and/or discharge properties necessary to maintain

adequate moisture in the unsaturated zone of the soil to support these threatened species. In addition,

recent drought periods have further altered stream hydrology processes needed to maintain suitable

habitat and reduced the likelihood of having any surviving seed banks for both species. Due to the

predominance of an intermittent stream hydrology and recent drought, no species occurrences have

been recorded in the PNG. In 2014, personal communication from Steve Popovich, Forest Botanist, to

Randy Reichert, PNG Range Staff, stated that we need not consider these two species for analysis at

this time. This is noted in the Table below.

http://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/


46

There are three R2 sensitive species that could exist on the PNG: dwarf milkweed, prairie moonwort,

and sandhill goosefoot. Two occurrences of dwarf milkweed (Asclepias uncialis) have been recorded;

one on the PNG and the other from an area adjacent to the PNG. On the adjacent area, one to three

plants in a small cluster were found in 2004 on private lands within 50 feet of federal lands on the PNG.

After the initial siting of the dwarf milkweed on the PNG in 2003, Steve Popovich, Forest Botanist, and

Randy Reichert, PNG Range Staff, were unable to find the plant in 2005. No further searches were

conducted in subsequent years to date as known by the author of this report. Other rare plant species of

local concern and significant rare plant communities were also considered.

Species considered and evaluated as Botany Components

Table 6. Proposed, Threatened, And Endangered Species Considered In This Analysis.

COMMON NAME SPECIES EXPECTED

OCCURRENCE

STATUS SPECIES

EXCLUDED

FROM

FURTHER

ANALYSIS

REASON FOR

EXCLUSION

Colorado Butterfly

Plant

Gaura

neomexicana ssp.

coloradensis

Sub-irrigated, alluvial soils of drainage bottoms surrounded by mixed grass prairie. Elev. 5800-6200 ft.

Threatened Yes* *Personal Communication with Steve Popovich, Forest Botanist, 2014

Ute Ladies’-tresses Spiranthes

diluvialis

Sub-irrigated, alluvial soils along streams and in open meadows in floodplains. Elev. 4500-6800 ft.

Threatened Yes* *Personal Communication with Steve Popovich, Forest Botanist, 2014


47

Species Discussion & Determinations

Federally Listed or Proposed Species – Discussion and Effects

No discussion. See table 1.

Forest Service Sensitive Plants:

Dwarf (Wheel) Milkweed Asclepias uncialis

Status

Forest Service Sensitive.

Distribution

Historically, this species appears to have been known from two or three disjunct geographical areas: 1)

the western Great Plains of eastern Colorado, northeastern New Mexico, and the adjacent Oklahoma

panhandle; 2) central to southwestern New Mexico and scattered locations in Arizona; and 3)

Sweetwater County in southwestern Wyoming. Currently, Asclepias uncialis is found in small

occurrences throughout most of its range (Decker 2006).

In Region 2, the species has been documented from 33 occurrences in eastern Colorado, 13 of which

are considered historical and probably extirpated. Of the 20 occurrences believed to be extant, two are

located on National Forest System land and one is located on private land within the boundary of the

Pawnee National Grassland.

Natural History

Table 7. FOREST SERVICE SENSITIVE SPECIES CONSIDERED IN THIS ANALYSIS.

Common Name

Species

Status

Expected Occurrence

Species

Excluded

Reason for Exclusion

Wheel (dwarf) milkweed

Asclepias uncialis

R2 Sensitive

Grows on open spaces between clumps of grass on level to gentle terrain, often at the base of escarpments or mesas. Absent in highly disturbed habitats. Elevations of 3,900–7,600 feet amsl.

no

Prairie moonwort

Botrychium campestre

R2 Sensitive

Associated with undisturbed loess, gravelly hillsides, and little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium).

no

Sandhill goosefoot

Chenopodium cycloides

R2 Sensitive

Associated with sandy soils of dunes and/or stabilized blowouts, growing within open sites along with sand sagebrush

no


48

Locklear (1996) describes the typical habitat for this species as level to gently sloping terrain without

notable micro-topographic features. Plants often are found at the base of escarpments or mesas, but do

not occur on rock ledges or outcroppings, and are absent from highly disturbed habitats such as sand

dunes, erosion channels, wash slopes, and badlands. Elevations range from 3,920 to 7,640 feet. Soils

are typical of dry, warm conditions (Mollisols, Entisols, Aridisols, and Alfisols), and there is no

evidence that it is restricted to a particular soil type. Occurrences are known from soils derived from a

variety of substrates, including sandstone, limestone, and shale, but they are most often found in sandy

loam soils. This species does not occur in pure sand.

Asclepias uncialis is most commonly associated with species typical of shortgrass prairie. Associated

vegetation consists primarily of grasses. Forbs, shrubs, and trees typically comprise less than 15% of

the total vegetation cover. They are usually found growing in open spaces between grass clumps

(Locklear 1996). It flowers from late April through May, fruiting from June through early July.

Environmental Baseline

Asclepias uncialis was included in the 1993 Review of Plant Taxa for Listing as Endangered or

Threatened as a Category 2 species, but was removed from the 1994 revised list. It is currently

included on the sensitive species list for USFS Region 2. The current global NatureServe rank is G3

(vulnerable) and the subspecies A. uncialis ssp. uncialis is ranked T2 (imperiled). It is state ranked as

S1S2 (critically imperiled/imperiled) in Colorado.

Extensive surveys for this species have been completed by USFS botany technicians for localized areas

of suitable habitat on portions of the PNG. Rechecks by them at appropriate times at the known site on

private land in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 revealed that the plants did not appear above ground. Areas

on the Grassland immediately adjacent to this population have also been intensely surveyed by botany

technicians during the blooming periods in 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007, but no additional plants have

been found. This plant does not always come above ground each year, has a narrow window of

flowering, and can be easily overlooked.

Effects of Alternative 1 – No Leasing. Under No Leasing, there would be zero acres disturbed.

Therefore there will no impacts to the botany resource.

Effects of Alternative 2 – No Action – leasing under Forest Plan. Up to 960 acres of disturbance may

occur under this alternative. Because of the minimal overall acres being affected, this alternative may

adversely impact individuals, but not likely to result in a loss of viability in the Planning Area, nor cause

a trend toward federal listing (Table 3). While 10% more activity may occur on adjacent and non-FS

Lands, botany resource analysis was not considered because the effects are undeterminable.

Effects of Alternative 3 – Leasing under NSO. Results are no impacts to botany resources since no

surface occupancy requires zero acres of FS lands to be disturbed.


49

Dwarf (Wheel) Milkweed and Fire

Threats to dwarf milkweed are not well understood. Locklear (2006) considers one of the threats to the

persistence of Asclepias uncialis in Region 2 is an altered disturbance regime. It appears that this

species is adapted to intermediate levels of disturbance since it does not appear to persist in heavily

disturbed sites. Several authors cited by Locklear (2006) state that this species is probably adapted to,

and even likely to require, historic disturbance regimes including frequent, light intensity fire. Fire

suppression and its resulting changes on the landscape, including fire intensity and frequency, and

invasion of what were once grasslands by shrubs and trees may make this species vulnerable by

eliminating open spaces. No other information about this species and its relationship with fire has been

found.

Prairie Moonwort Botrychium campestre

Status

Forest Service Sensitive

Distribution

Prairie moonwort is known from populations across North America in 14 states and five provinces.

Populations are widely distributed and occur in disjunct populations. They are known from Iowa and

Minnesota on the east, to Alberta and Montana on the west. Populations are also known from Michigan

and Wisconsin and in Ontario. It is most common in Minnesota, Iowa, and Michigan.

It is known from nine possible populations in the Rocky Mountain Region, but only five of these have

been verified and observed within the last ten years. Populations within Region 2 are small and

geographically separated from each other. It is only known from one site in Nebraska, two in South

Dakota, two in Wyoming, and one (possibly three) in Colorado (Anderson and Cariveau 2003).

Of the three sites in Colorado, one unverified field sighting occurs on the PNG. This population

continues to be unverified and may have been observed during a Colorado Native Plant Society field

trip during the 1980’s. Multiple attempts have been made to verify this sighting, but no plants have

been found. Inventory work to verify this sighting is ongoing.

Natural History

Prairie moonwort is a small perennial with a single aboveground frond. The leaves appear in early

spring (mid-April through mid-May), and turn brown and mostly die by mid to late June. Moonworts

are primitive ferns with some of the highest chromosome numbers in the plant kingdom (Chadde and

Kudray 2001). They are reported as “extremely inconspicuous in prairies, dunes, grassy railroad

sidings, and fields over limestone”.


50

Little is known about the exact habitat associations and environmental tolerances of this species.

However it has been found primarily in native, unplowed prairies and in sites with some disturbance,

such as grazing. It is commonly associated with loess prairie throughout much of its range. It is also

known to occur in the dunes around Lake Michigan and in sandy soils, along railroad tracks, and in

areas of calcareous soils underlain by limestone. The occurrence on the PNG was underlain by the

Laramie Formation. This species is usually found in tall to midgrass prairie systems where dead leaf

litter from grasses is present. In all locations including Colorado, B. campestre is associated with S.

scoparium (little bluestem) (Anderson and Cariveau 2003).


Botrychium campestre is found in a small number of locations globally and within Region 2. While it

has a broad geographic range, there are many small, disjunctive populations separated by large areas of

unsuitable habitat. It is ranked globally vulnerable (G3) by Nature Serve. Within Region 2, it is ranked

critically imperiled (S1) in Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska, and unrankable (S?) in South Dakota.

There are no documented sightings of prairie moonwort on the PNG, but unverified field sightings of

this species do occur in the project area. Only one location is suspected of having this species at this

time, but suitable habitat exists throughout the Pawnee Unit.

Substantial survey efforts have been expended by Forest Service botanists, CNHP staff, and recognized

moonwort authorities on the Grassland in 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007, but no plants have been

observed. Significant effort has also been expended on rechecks in the presumed occupied sites during

the anticipated sporophyte (i.e., above ground) phase in the area where unverified sightings from the

1980’s occurred. These surveys have not been able to relocate this species. Areas adjacent to this

population and areas thought to have suitable habitat for prairie moonwort have also been surveyed

during the sporophyte period in recent years, but no additional plants have been found.





adversely impact individuals, but not likely to result in a loss of viability in the Planning Area, nor

cause a trend toward federal listing (Table 3). While 10% more activity may occur on adjacent and

non-FS Lands, botany resource analysis was not considered because the effects are undeterminable.




51

Prairie Moonwort and Fire

According to Anderson and Cariveau (2003), little is known about the relationship between fire and

prairie moonwort. It is assumed that since fire played a major role in the ecology of prairie ecosystems,

that fire may be necessary to maintain suitable habitat for this species by limiting the development of an

overstory and maintaining the grasslands of the plains, but further investigation is necessary to study

the nature of this relationship. Anderson and Cariveau (2003) also state that fire may also serve an

important role in nutrient cycling and in the reduction of thatch loads associated with this species.

Sandhill Goosefoot Chenopodium cycloides

Status

Forest Service Sensitive

Distribution

Found from southwest Kansas south through west Texas, west to Southern New Mexico. In Colorado it

is found in Las Animas and Pueblo Counties, and is likely to occur in Baca County.

Natural History

This species is an annual plant growing up to 1 meter tall found in sandy soil on dunes and in stabilized

and semi-stabilized sand in blowouts. It occurs in the Southwest Plateau and Plains Dry Steppe and

Shrub Province, and the Great Plains-Dry Steppe Province. It occurs at elevations from 3,845 to 5,699

feet in Colorado. No particular aspect characterizes its habitat, probably because it generally grows on

gentle slopes ranging from 0 to approximately 5 percent inclination. It may grow on steeper slopes in

dune environments. Its typical growth in open sites along with perennial plants such as Artemisia

filifolia (sand sage) and, less commonly in shortgrass prairie communities. It flowers from late June

through August, fruiting in summer through the fall.


Sandhill goosefoot is globally ranked as G4, apparently secure globally, and state ranked as S1,

critically imperiled in Colorado. There are only a few occurrences in Colorado. This species is

suspected to occur, but has not been documented on the PNG. One population has been documented in

Weld County. Suitable habitat is limited, but occurs in patches throughout the project area.






52

adversely impact individuals, but not likely to result in a loss of viability in the Planning Area, nor

cause a trend toward federal listing (Table 3). While 10% more activity may occur on adjacent and

non-FS Lands, botany resource analysis was not considered for these lands because the effects are

undeterminable.



Sandhill Goosefoot and Fire

Although fire is not specifically mentioned as a threat to sandhill goosefoot, Ladyman (2006) states that

management practices that provide stresses to the seed bank may negatively affect this species

occurrence. If applied during the seed development or dispersal stage, prescribed fire has the potential

to affect the seed bank for this species. The role of fire in maintaining this species is not documented,

nor is the impact of fire suppression.

SPECIES OF LOCAL CONCERN: Alpine feverfew: Found along ridges and low hills, in areas

devoid of grassy vegetation, usually with other cushion plants. Elev. 5400-5800 ft.

Table 8: FOREST SERVICE SENSITIVE SPECIES DETERMINATIONS CONSIDERED IN THIS

ANALYSIS.

Common Name

Species

Status

Expected Occurrence

Species

Excluded

Determination

Wheel (dwarf) milkweed

Asclepias uncialis

Yes Grows on open spaces between clumps of grass on level to gentle terrain, often at the base of escarpments or mesas. Absent in highly disturbed habitats. Elevations of 3,900–7,600 feet amsl.

no MAII *( May adversely

impact individuals, but

not likely to result in a loss of viability in the Planning

Area, nor cause a trend

toward federal listing)

Prairie moonwort

Botrychium campestre

Yes Associated with undisturbed loess, gravelly hillsides, and little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium).

no MAII*

Sandhill goosefoot

Chenopodium cycloides

Yes Associated with sandy soils of dunes and/or stabilized blowouts, growing within open sites along with sand sagebrush

no No Impact


53

Indirect Effects and Cumulative Impacts on Rare Plants

Alternative Background: Three alternatives will be initially examined for the PNG Oil and Gas

Leasing Analysis EIS. These are:

(1) No Leasing; (2) No Action, leasing under the Forest Plan; (3) Leasing under NSO;

The projected number of initial (gross) acres of disturbance based on the ARP RFDS estimate of the

average number of wells and related facilities, including roads, is as follows:

Alternative 1, No Leasing:

0 acres.

Alternative 2, No Action, Leasing under the Forest Plan:

Up to 960 acres

Alternative 3, Leasing under NSO:

0 acres

The potential future development of lands occurring as a result of Oil and Gas leasing will not likely

have a significant negative impact on sensitive species populations since the PNG has had only one

documented sighting of a sensitive species plant; sensitive species habitat exists on the PNG and could

be impacted by oil and gas development. Sensitive species habitat is the key to analysis. Preserving the

habitat allows the potential for sensitive species plant development to remain intact.

The specific habitat requirements vary for each of the plant species evaluated in this report. The

extent of potential negative impacts to management status plant species and habitat can be compared

by alternative by measuring the estimated habitat that may be degraded or lost. Making lands

available for oil and gas leasing and the subsequent leasing of available lands does not involve any

direct effects on rare plants. Leasing is a commitment of the resource for potential future exploration

and development activities, but leasing does not compel or authorize any ground disturbing actions in

support of the exploration or development of a lease. As a result of leasing, future exploration and

development proposals could be brought forward that would be subject to additional site specific

environmental study and permitting requirements. The ground disturbing activities of the oil and gas

industry subsequent to leasing would have indirect and cumulative effects.

The extent of potential negative impacts to sensitive plant species can be compared by alternative by

measuring the estimated habitat that may be degraded or lost. No alternatives specifically propose the

exploration or development of oil and gas resources. For this reason, the leasing analysis relies on a

Reasonably Foreseeable Development Scenario, which projects future potential surface disturbing


54

activities of approximately 960 acres as a maximum for any alternative, to provide a development

scenario that has been determined to be reasonable on the proposed available lands. However, this

scenario is not necessarily foreseeable and is dependent on future industry interest, access, market

values and many other factors. Alternatives 1 and 3 would have no impact since no ground disturbing

activity would occur. Under Alternative 2, leasing under the current Forest Plan, any future exploration

or development of oil and gas resources, if and when it does occur, could result in some indirect and

cumulative impacts. These are minimal because the disturbed acreage only represents .5% of the PNG

area (Table 2). Suitable sensitive species habitat is already a very small, though undefined, percentage

of the PNG FS lands.

Indirect Effects Common to All Alternatives on Sensitive Species Plants

The effects of Alternatives 1, 2, and 3 will have no significant impacts to the resource because of the

small amount of acreage (.5 % of PNG total acreage) being disturbed (Table 3).

Cumulative Impacts

Existing impacts include current oil and gas development, prescribed fire and recreational use. Wildland

fire may have an impact on rare plant habitat by allowing for invasives (native or exotic) to degrade the

habitat. Recreational use, target shooting in particular because of its occurrence along stream bottoms,

may have an effect on rare plant habitat. Because the FS cannot enforce COA’s on oil and gas activity on

NFS lands with private mineral rights or private or state lands with the PNG boundaries, this activity

could damage or destroy rare plants or rare plant habitat.

Mitigations

Because of the nature of rare plants and the cumulative impacts, even with a small percentage of PNG

acreage exposed to disturbance, botany surveys to determine the presence of rare plants or their habitat

on proposed well pads and related facilities would need to be done and should be written into the ADP

environmental requirements. On NFS lands with private mineral rights, negotiations to avoid rare

plant habitat, if successful, could eliminate the impact to rare plants or their habitat.

Summary of Effects for Range, Noxious Weeds and Botany

The effects of the alternatives have been described in detail in this document. Overall, the effects will

be minimal because of the maximum disturbance of 960 acres of the ARP RFDS, is a very low

percentage of the PNG FS Lands.

Table 9: Description of effects based on general intensity:

Impact Intensity Intensity Description


55

Major beneficial Effects would be beneficial and highly noticeable, visible from a considerable distance

or over a large area. The character of the resource would change substantially for the

positive.

Moderate beneficial Effects would be readily apparent and would change the character of the resource for

the positive.

Minor beneficial Effects would result in slightly detectable positive change.

Negligible Effects would not result in any perceptible change.

Minor adverse Effects would result in slightly detectable negative change.

Moderate adverse Effects would be readily apparent and would change the character of the resource for

the negative.

Major adverse Effects would be highly noticeable, visible from a considerable distance or over a large

area. The character of the resource would change substantially for the negative.

Table 10: Summary of Effects on Range, Noxious Weeds and Botany Components

Category Component Impact Intensity

Range Desirable range condition Negligible

Allotment carrying capacity Negligible

Economic impacts to grazing

permittees

Negligible

Noxious Weeds Reduction in Range and Botany

conditions and habitat

Minor adverse (see Mitigations)

Botany Wheel (dwarf) milkweed; associated

sensitive species habitat


Prairie moonwort; associated



Sandhill goosefoot; associated


Negligible – almost no habitat exists on the

PNG

Summary of Mitigations

To ensure that impacts to the botany and range resources are reduced to a minimum the following are

recommended to be placed as requirements in any project document that stems from the leasing of

mineral rights under FS Lands.

1. Botany surveys will be conducted on the acreage prior to any ground disturbing activity related

to oil and gas leasing. Mitigation is moving the “site” to avoid any sensitive species plants or

habitat.


56

2. On all oil and gas activities associated with construction and development of FS mineral rights

on FS Lands, vehicles entering FS lands will be washed and/or inspected for presence of

noxious weed seeds.

3. Prudent periodic inspections on and around disturbed sites of oil and gas infrastructure on FS

Lands for noxious weed infestations. Mitigation: treatment of any noxious weed infestations

discovered by the responsible party.


57

REFERENCES AND LITERATURE CITED

Anderson, D.G. and D. Cariveau. 2003. Botrychium campestre W.H. Wagner & Farrar (Iowa

moonwort): A Technical Conservation Assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain

Region, Species Conservation Project. 46 pp.

Chadde, S. and G. Kudray. 2001. Conservation Assessment for Iowa Moonwort (Botrychium

campestre). USDA Forest Service, Eastern Region. 46 pp.

Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP). 2004. Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest and

Pawnee National Grasslands. Rare, threatened, endangered and sensitive species overlays and

accompanying reports (on CD). College of Natural Resources, 254 General Services, Fort Collins,

CO 80523.

Decker, K. 2006. Asclepias uncialis Greene (wheel milkweed): a technicdal conservation assessment.

USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. 51 pp.

Derner, J.D., Detling, J.K. and Antolin, M.F. 2005. “Are livestock weight gains affected by black-

tailed prairie dogs?” Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, Vol 4 pp.459-464.

Fertig, W. "Rare vascular plant species in the Wyoming portion of the Utah-Wyoming Rocky

Mountains Ecoregion." Prepared for the Wyoming Nature Conservancy by the Wyoming Natural

Diversity Database, Laramie, WY (2000).

Fertig, Walter, Rick Black, and Paige Wolken. "Rangewide status review of Ute ladies’-tresses

(Spiranthes diluvialis)." Prepared for the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Central Utah Water

Conservancy District 30 (2005).

Hazlett, D.L. 1998. Vascular Plant Species of the Pawnee National Grassland. USDA Forest Service,

Rocky Mountain Research Station General Technical Report RMRS-GTR-17. September 1998. 26

pp.

Ladyman, J.R.R. (2006. Chenopodium cycloides A. Nelson (sandhill goosefoot): a technical

conservation assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. 61 pp.

Lauenroth, W.K., 2008. Two species are most characteristic of the vegetation of the shortgrass steppe:

Bouteloua gracilis and Buchloë dactyloides. Both are perennial C4 grasses and are informally called

shortgrasses. Technically, this means that they are both culmless grasses in which, for the majority

of the tillers, the apical meristem remains at or near the soil surface and is protected by a succession

often enveloping leaf sheaths for the entire growing season (Dahl, 1995; Dahl and Hyder, 1977).

This morphological characteristic makes these two grasses well adapted to withstand turnover of

aboveground organs as a result of intraseasonal. Ecology of the Shortgrass Steppe: A Long-Term

Perspective: A Long-Term Perspective. Pages 70. Oxford University Press.

McGregor, R.L., T.M. Barkley, R.E. Brooks, and E.K. Schofield. 1986. Flora of the Great Plains.

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