15. DRAFT_Attachment 3 - Item 2c Dutton Hill Prescriptions.pdf

Cu rr en t C on di tio ns

Stand Structure, Damaging Agents, Fuels, Ground Vegetation, etc.:

Id en tit y

Project Name NEPA Unit Acres Unit is dominated by ponderosa, with incidental juniper (alligator and Rocky Mountain) intermixed. Stand structure is relatively even-aged with a variable BA, averaging ~130 ft2/ac. Yellow pines are rare. Ponderosa regeneration is limited, with very little manageable. DM infection was not observed, but may occur in small pockets. Units contain low-high levels of CWD and a limited number of snags >18” dbh/drc, averaging <0.1/acre.

Dutton Hill – Sliker 4FRI EIS 08 128 Forest / District Location(s) Site(s) Coconino NF/Flagstaff RD 131 03 Township Range Section(s) T20N R5E 4, 9

Tr ea tm en t P la n

Silvicultural Treatment: Group sel. w/ free thin (PFA-UEA40) Prescribed by: /s/ M. Nabel Date: 05/19/19 Logging Method: Ground-based Slash Treatment: Remove biomass (lop/scatter residual to <2’ in ht) Constraints and Other Considerations:

Units falls w/in a goshawk PFA and a portion falls w/in a ¼ mile of a PAC

(follow timing restrictions).

Notes for Layout:

Layout complete.

Non-Commercial (Small Tree) Thinning: Priority: Low Si te

S ta nd O ve rv ie w

Slope % Aspect Elevation Soil Type Productivity Retain all desirable ponderosa <6” dbh. Cut all non-desirable ponderosa

<6” dbh.

0-5 Flat 7,200 Basalt Low

VSS Range (Dom.) BA Range (Avg.) Regeneration Habitat Type 3-4(3) 110-170 (150) Low PIPO/FEAR

La yo ut Boundary Designation:

Double orange horizontal bands facing towards unit

Overstory Composition (by % BA) Regen Composition (by % TPA)

99+% PP, <1% JU 99+% PP, <1%% JU

Tree Designation: DxP (cutter select) DMI (Avg.) % Area Infected Other Damaging Agents Layout completed by: Date: -- 0% Incidental elk browse Marking verified by: Date: PP = ponderosa pine; GO = Gambel oak; JU = juniper spp.

O th er

Cutting Unit: 08 Acres: 128 Silvicultural Treatment: Group selection with free thinning in matrix

Treatment Objectives

• Manage for suitable habitat conditions within a goshawk PFA.

• Reduce stand density and improve individual tree vigor and growth.

• Improve structural diversity and move towards an uneven-aged condition.

• Maintain species diversity where it exists within the stand.

• Broadcast burn to maintain low surface fuel loading, further promote a vigorous understory shrub/herb component, and reduce the intensity/severity of future fires

• Dispose of most activity slash through either piling and burning or removal from the site

Implementation Guide (in order of priority) General:

• Retain all yellow pine, Gambel oak, and juniper, regardless of form, health, or vigor. This supersedes all other specifications.

• Retain ponderosa >18” dbh with existing cavities, dead tops and lightning scars as wildlife trees

• Retain inaccessible trees and trees that cannot be cut without causing significant damage to residual trees (bole damage to trees >6” dbh/drc or top breakage to trees >9” dbh/drc).

• Tree groups should be created across 60% of the stand area. Interspaces and regeneration openings should be created across the remaining 40% of the stand area.

• Retain a variable BA that averages ~70 ft2/ac at the stand-level (nearly all ponderosa).

Special Considerations:

• Retain all desirable/acceptable bank stabilization trees >9” dbh along channel of protected streamcourse (Fig. 1).

• Minimize interspace widths and avoid placing regeneration openings within protected streamcourse.

Regeneration Openings (including VSS 1-2 groups):

• Create irregularly shaped regeneration openings across 10% of the unit.

• Openings shall be placed in areas containing no infected yellow pines that will be surrounded by little to no mistletoe infection after opening is created. Openings may contain Gambel oak/juniper. Priority for opening placement shall be as follows:

1. In areas with moderate to abundant (>10 TPA) desirable young ponderosa <6” dbh.

2. In areas overstocked with ponderosa from the most prevalent size classes (9-14” dbh).

• Opening size shall generally range from 0.3 to 1.0 acre, but may be as large as 2 acres. The maximum width for openings is 200 feet.

• Cut all ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine) within regeneration openings with the following exceptions:

1. Retain desirable young ponderosa 6-9” dbh.

2. In openings >1 acre not containing an abundance of desirable young ponderosa <9” dbh (>50 TPA), retain 3-5 reserve trees (largest, most desirable trees including yellow pine).

Tree Groups / Interspaces (in surrounding matrix):

• Thin ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine), leaving trees in irregularly shaped groups.

• Concentrate groups in areas with (a) an abundance of desirable and acceptable trees, (b) an abundance of trees

>18” dbh, (c) a prevalence of deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity, and (d) large logs >18” diameter.

Pre-settlement evidences may be used to help guide group placement/size.

• Vary group size from 0.1 to 1 acre(s), with the following distribution:

(a) 20% 0.1-0.25 acre (b) 30% 0.25-0.5 acre (c) 50% 0.5-1.0 acre

• Within groups, thin to the average densities shown in Table 1, generally retaining desirable and acceptable trees (Table 2) from across the range of available size classes. Additional non-desirable trees may be left if needed to meet density targets. Strive for irregular spacing within groups and the retention of some trees with interlocking crowns.

• Leave ~10% of groups unthinned, focusing in areas with deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity.

• Distance between groups, dripline to dripline, shall average 60-100 feet (occasionally up to 120 feet).

• Between groups, cut all ponderosa 6-18” dbh (except yellow pine). Retain up to one ponderosa >18” dbh per acre in between groups if it meets the criteria for a desirable or acceptable tree.

Table 1. Stocking guide for leave tree groups (ponderosa pine only)

Typical Number of Trees Per Group for Different Group Sizes1

Typical Intra-Group (within-group)

Densities1

VSS

DBH

Range

1/10 acre group

¼ acre group

½ acre group

¾ acre group acre group Basal Area

(ft2/acre) 3 5 - 11.9 15 38 76 114 152 60

4 12 - 17.9” 10 24 49 73 98 120 5 18 - 23.9” 5 12 25 37 50 120 6 24”+ 3 8 15 23 30 120

1 These are typical values required to achieve the desired stand-level stocking for the midpoint diameter. Variation between groups can occur and is highly desirable; however, ranges should center on these values. If trees are larger, then the midpoint diameter, less trees would be retained; if trees are smaller, then more trees would be retained.

Table 2. Physical characteristics to consider when selecting trees to retain.

EVALUATION

CRITERIA DESIRABLE ACCEPTABLE NON-DESIRABLE

LIVE CROWN RATIO

>40% for ponderosa pine

>50% for other species

25-40% for ponderosa pine

35-50% for other species

< 25% for ponderosa pine

< 35% for other species

CROWN CLASS

Dominants and co-dominants

Co-dominants and better intermediates

Intermediate, suppressed or overtopped

FORM DEFECTS

NONE

MINOR (no significant weakening of the tree anticipated; minor crooks, sweeps, and tight forks which are < 50% of total tree height are acceptable if the tree is dominant or co-dominant and otherwise has good vigor).

MAJOR (weakening of tree or multiple tops, severe sweeps or crooks, forks in the lower 2/3 of tree)

HAWKSWORTH

DWARF

MISTLETOE

RATING (DMR)

Pines 6-9” dbh with a DMR rating of 2 or less

Pines 9+” dbh with a DMR rating of 3 or less

Pines <6” dbh with any sign of infection rating >2

Pines 9+” dbh with a DMR rating from 4-6, unless classified as wildlife trees.

DAMAGING AGENTS

MECHANICAL,

ANIMAL, FIRE

Bark missing from <50 % of bole circumference for ponderosa pine or Douglas-fir.

Fire kill of cambium on <50 % of bole circumference or crown scorch on the lower 2/3 of the crown.

Bark missing from >50% of bole circumference for ponderosa pine or Douglas-fir. Any bark missing for other species.

Fire kill of cambium on >50 % of bole circumference or crown scorch in the upper 1/3 of the crown

VERTICAL

STRUCTURE

Trees that otherwise may be considered non-desirable but contribute significantly to vertical structure (i.e., contain several limb limbs below rest of residual canopy). Up to 10% of trees left may meet this criteria.

en t C on di en tit y

Project Name NEPA Unit Acres Unit is dominated by ponderosa, with abundant Gambel oak and incidental juniper intermixed. Stand structure is relatively uneven-aged with a variable BA, averaging ~130 ft2/ac. Yellow pines are common.

Ponderosa regeneration is abundant, but with very little manageable. DM infection occurs in patches across unit, but with many large uninfected areas. Blowdown from the 2010 tornado occurs along the east edge of unit. Unit contains low-high levels of CWD, with higher levels near the tornado paths. Unit contains a snags >18” dbh/drc, averaging ~0.2/acre.

Stands 131-08, -09, -10, -17, and -18 were classified in the EIS as heavily stocked with a preponderance of large, young trees.

Dutton Hill – Sliker 4FRI EIS 10 430 Forest / District Location(s) Site(s) Coconino NF/Flagstaff RD 131 08-10,14-20(portions); 31(W) Township Range Section(s) T20N R5E 3 tm en t P la n

Silvicultural Treatment: Group sel. w/ free thin (UEA40; UEA40-High End NRV)

Prescribed by: /s/ M. Nabel Date: 05/19/19 Logging Method: Ground-based Slash Treatment: Remove biomass (lop/scatter residual to <2’ in ht) Constraints and Other Considerations:

Avoid operations within white painted deferral.

Portion of unit falls within ¼ mile of PAC - follow timing restrictions.

Unit is adjacent to powerline - coordinate with APS and ensure contractor has appropriate quals to remove trees w/in OSHA limits of powerline.

Non-Commercial (Small Tree) Thinning: Priority: High

Si te

S ta nd

O ve rv ie w Slope % Aspect Elevation Soil Type Productivity

Retain all desirable ponderosa <6” dbh. Cut all non-desirable ponderosa <6” dbh.

0-35 Variable 7,100-7,300 Basalt Variable VSS Range (Dom.) BA Range (Avg.) Regeneration Habitat Type

3-5(4) 80-200 (130) Abundant PIPO/FEAR

La yo ut Boundary Designation:

Double orange horizontal bands facing towards unit (orange dots between Rx units)

Overstory Composition (by % BA) Regen Composition (by % TPA)

92% PP, 8% GO, <1% JU 60% PP, 35% GO, 5% JU

Tree Designation: DxP (cutter select) DMI (Avg.) % Area Infected Other Damaging Agents Layout completed by: Date: 3 20-30% Tornado blowdown Marking verified by: Date: PP = ponderosa pine; GO = Gambel oak; JU = juniper spp.

O

Cutting Unit: 10 Acres: 430

• Reduce stand density and improve individual tree vigor and growth.

• Improve structural diversity and maintain an uneven-aged condition.

• Maintain species diversity, including a healthy oak component where it exists, within the stand.

• Reduce the overall level of dwarf mistletoe infection.

• Broadcast burn to maintain low surface fuel loading, further promote a vigorous understory shrub/herb

• Retain all yellow pine, Gambel oak, aspen, and juniper, regardless of form, health, or vigor. This supersedes all other specifications.

• Retain ponderosa >18” dbh with existing cavities, dead tops and lightning scars as wildlife trees.

• Retain inaccessible trees and trees that cannot be cut without causing significant damage to residual trees (bole damage to trees >6” dbh/drc or top breakage to trees >9” dbh/drc).

• Tree groups should be created across 45% of the stand area in 10A and 60% of the stand area in 10B/C/D.

Interspaces and regeneration openings should be created across the remaining 55% of the stand area in 10A and 40% of the stand area in 10B/C/D.

• Retain a variable BA that averages ~50 ft2/ac at the stand-level in 10A (~40 ft2/ac ponderosa and ~10 ft2/ac Gambel oak/juniper) and ~70 ft2/ac at the stand-level in 10B/C/D (~60 ft2/ac ponderosa and ~10 ft2/ac Gambel oak/juniper), including any deferrals.

Special Considerations:

• Do not cut any trees and avoid operations within white painted deferrals.

Regeneration Openings (including VSS 1-2 groups):

• Create irregularly shaped regeneration openings across 5% of the unit.

• Openings shall be placed in areas containing no infected yellow pines that will be surrounded by little to no mistletoe infection after opening is created. Openings may contain Gambel oak/juniper. Priority for opening placement shall be as follows:

1. In areas with moderate to abundant (>10 TPA) desirable young ponderosa <6” dbh.

2. In areas overstocked with ponderosa from the most prevalent size classes (9-14” dbh).

3. In small pockets of mistletoe infection (<1 acre) where all visibly infected trees plus a 30-40 foot buffer

(to capture latent infection) can be removed.

• Opening size shall generally range from 0.3 to 1.0 acre, but may be as large as 2 acres. The maximum width for openings is 200 feet.

• Cut all ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine) within regeneration openings with the following exceptions:

1. Retain desirable young ponderosa 6-9” dbh.

2. In openings >1 acre not containing an abundance of desirable young ponderosa <9” dbh (>50 TPA), retain 3-5 reserve trees (largest, most desirable trees including yellow pine).

Tree Groups / Interspaces (in surrounding matrix):

• Thin ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine), leaving trees in irregularly shaped groups.

• Concentrate groups in areas with (a) an abundance of desirable and acceptable trees, (b) an abundance of trees

>18” dbh, (c) a prevalence of deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity, and (d) large logs >18” diameter.

Pre-settlement evidences may be used to help guide group placement/size.

• Vary group size from 0.1 to 1 acre(s), with the following distribution:

10A: (a) 30% 0.1-0.25 acre (b) 30% 0.25-0.5 acre (c) 40% 0.5-1.0 acre 10B/C/D: (a) 20% 0.1-0.25 acre (b) 30% 0.25-0.5 acre (c) 50% 0.5-1.0 acre

• Within groups, thin to the average densities shown in Table 1, generally retaining desirable and acceptable trees (Table 2) from across the range of available size classes. Additional non-desirable trees may be left if needed to meet density targets. Strive for irregular spacing within groups and the retention of some trees with interlocking crowns.

• Leave ~10% of groups unthinned, focusing in areas with deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity.

• Distance between groups, measured dripline to dripline, shall average 60-100 feet (generally stick closer to 60 feet in 10B/C/D), with the distance between groups infected with mistletoe and groups not infected at the upper end of the range. Interspaces may contain Gambel oak/juniper.

• Between groups, cut all ponderosa 6-18” dbh (except yellow pine). Retain up to one ponderosa >18” dbh per

Different Group Sizes1

Typical Intra-Group (within-group)

Densities1

VSS

DBH

Range

1/10 acre group

¼ acre group

½ acre group

¾ acre group acre group Basal Area

(ft2/acre) 3 5 - 11.9 15 38 76 114 152 60

4 12 - 17.9” 8 20 41 61 81 100 5 18 - 23.9” 4 10 21 31 42 100 6 24”+ 3 7 14 21 28 110

1 These are typical values required to achieve the desired stand-level stocking for the midpoint diameter. Variation between groups can occur and is highly desirable; however, ranges should center on these values. If trees are larger, then the midpoint diameter, less trees would be retained; if trees are smaller, then more trees would be retained.

anticipated; minor crooks, sweeps, and tight forks which are < 50% of total tree height are acceptable if the tree is

Trees that otherwise may be considered non-desirable but contribute significantly to vertical structure (i.e., contain en t C on di en tit y

Project Name NEPA Unit Acres Unit is dominated by ponderosa, with a few Gambel oak and incidental juniper intermixed. SW corner of unit (~5 acres) contains a pocket of aspen, some intermixed with ponderosa. Stand structure is relatively two-aged with a variable BA, averaging ~135 ft2/ac. Yellow pines are incidental. Ponderosa regeneration is moderate, with <1/4 manageable.

DM infection is most abundant in the S half of unit (stand 143-01) but smaller pockets exist in N half as well. Blowdown from the 2010 tornados occurs in the center of the unit and along west edge. Unit contains low-high levels of CWD, with higher levels near the tornado paths. Unit contains a limited number of snags >18” dbh/drc, averaging ~0.4/acre.

Stands 131-23 was classified in the EIS as heavily stocked with a preponderance of large, young trees.

Dutton Hill – Sliker 4FRI EIS 13 572 Forest / District Location(s) Site(s) Coconino NF/Flagstaff RD 131; 143 22,23,24; 01 Township Range Section(s) T20N R5E 11 tm en t P la n

Silvicultural Treatment: Group sel. w/ free thin (UEA40; UEA40-High End NRV)

Prescribed by: /s/ M. Nabel Date: 12/20/18 Logging Method: Ground-based Slash Treatment: Remove biomass (lop/scatter residual to <2’ in ht) Constraints and Other Considerations:

Avoid operations within two white painted deferrals.

Non-Commercial (Small Tree) Thinning: Priority: High

Si te

S ta nd

O ve rv ie w Slope % Aspect Elevation Soil Type Productivity

Retain all desirable ponderosa <6” dbh, except cut all ponderosa <6” dbh w/in 50’ of live aspen. Cut all non-desirable ponderosa <6” dbh.

0-30 Variable 7,300 Basalt High VSS Range (Dom.) BA Range (Avg.) Regeneration Habitat Type

3-5(4) 80-190 (135) Moderate PIPO/MUMO

La yo ut Boundary Designation:

Double orange horizontal bands facing towards unit (orange dots between Rx units)

Overstory Composition (by % BA) Regen Composition (by % TPA)

98% PP, 2% GO, <1% JU, <1% AS 60% PP, 40% GO, <1% JU, <1% AS

Tree Designation: DxP+ (tablet) w/ suppl. LTM (live ponderosa >6” dbh) DMI (Avg.) % Area Infected Other Damaging Agents Layout completed by: Date: 3 20-30% Tornado blowdown Marking verified by: Date: PP = ponderosa pine; GO = Gambel oak; JU = juniper spp.; AS = aspen

O

Cutting Unit: 13 Acres: 572

• Improve structural diversity and move towards an uneven-aged condition.

• Maintain species diversity, including a healthy oak and aspen component where it exists, within the stand.

• Reduce the overall level of dwarf mistletoe infection.

• Broadcast burn to maintain low surface fuel loading, further promote a vigorous understory shrub/herb

• Retain all yellow pine, Gambel oak, aspen, and juniper, regardless of form, health, or vigor. This supersedes all other specifications.

• Retain ponderosa >18” dbh with existing cavities, dead tops and lightning scars as wildlife trees.

• Retain inaccessible trees and trees that cannot be cut without causing significant damage to residual trees (bole damage to trees >6” dbh/drc or top breakage to trees >9” dbh/drc).

• Tree groups should be created across 50% of the stand area in 13A and 60% of the stand area in 13B.

Interspaces and regeneration openings should be created across the remaining 50% of the stand area in 13A and 40% of the stand area in 13B.

• Retain a variable BA that averages ~50 ft2/ac at the stand-level in 13A and ~60 ft2/ac at the stand-level in 13B (nearly all ponderosa), including any deferrals.

Special Considerations:

• Do not cut any trees and avoid operations within white painted deferrals.

Clearing around Aspen:

• Cut all ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine) within 50 feet (bole to bole) of live aspen except where cutting would result in significant damage to aspen.

Regeneration Openings (including VSS 1-2 groups):

• Create irregularly shaped regeneration openings across 10% of the unit.

• Openings shall be placed in areas containing no infected yellow pines that will be surrounded by little to no mistletoe infection after opening is created. Openings may contain Gambel oak/juniper. Priority for opening placement shall be as follows:

1. In areas with moderate to abundant (>10 TPA) desirable young ponderosa <6” dbh.

2. In areas overstocked with ponderosa from the most prevalent size classes (9-14” dbh).

3. In small pockets of mistletoe infection (<1 acre) where all visibly infected trees plus a 30-40 foot buffer

(to capture latent infection) can be removed.

• Opening size shall generally range from 0.3 to 1.0 acre, but may be as large as 2 acres. The maximum width for openings is 200 feet.

• Cut all ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine) within regeneration openings with the following exceptions:

1. Retain desirable young ponderosa 6-9” dbh.

2. In openings >1 acre not containing an abundance of desirable young ponderosa <9” dbh (>50 TPA), retain 3-5 reserve trees (largest, most desirable trees including yellow pine).

Tree Groups / Interspaces (in surrounding matrix):

• Thin ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine), leaving trees in irregularly shaped groups.

• Concentrate groups in areas with (a) an abundance of desirable and acceptable trees, (b) an abundance of trees

>18” dbh, (c) a prevalence of deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity, and (d) large logs >18” diameter.

Pre-settlement evidences may be used to help guide group placement/size.

• Vary group size from 0.1 to 1 acre(s), with the following distribution:

13A: (a) 30% 0.1-0.25 acre (b) 30% 0.25-0.5 acre (c) 40% 0.5-1.0 acre 13B: (a) 20% 0.1-0.25 acre (b) 30% 0.25-0.5 acre (c) 50% 0.5-1.0 acre

• Within groups, thin to the average densities shown in Table 1, generally retaining desirable and acceptable trees (Table 2) from across the range of available size classes. Additional non-desirable trees may be left if needed to meet density targets. Strive for irregular spacing within groups and the retention of some trees with interlocking crowns.

• Leave ~10% of groups unthinned, focusing in areas with deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity.

• Distance between groups, measured dripline to dripline, shall average 60-100 feet (generally stick closer to 60 feet in 13B), with the distance between groups infected with mistletoe and groups not infected at the upper end of the range. Interspaces may contain Gambel oak/juniper/aspen.

• Between groups, cut all ponderosa 6-18” dbh (except yellow pine). Retain up to one ponderosa >18” dbh per

Special Instructions for tablet marking:

Group Type:

• Groups under this Rx should be a mix of “free thin” and “thin-below”, with “free thin” chosen when desirable/acceptable trees exist across a range of size classes. Use “thin-below” when no opportunity exists to leave desirable/acceptable smaller trees.

• Designate ~10% of groups as “no cutting” to help maintain a high level of structural diversity. If a “no cutting” group is designated in an area due to operability or other issues, state the reason in the “Notes” section.

Group Size:

• The minimum size for designated groups is 1/10th acre (4,356 ft2). For groups <1/10th acre, designate individual trees per the discussion below.

• For groups <1/4 acre in size, in addition to residual BA, also record an estimate of the total # of residual trees. Do not use this field for groups >1/4 acre in size or regeneration openings.

Individual Trees w/in Interspaces and groups <1/10th acre:

• Record a point and dbh for ponderosa pine >6” dbh to be retained between groups and within groups <1/10th acre (including wildlife trees and bank stabilization trees, but not inaccessible trees). Mark all retained blackjacks and transitioning blackjacks, but not obvious yellow pines.

• Do not designate individual trees within any of the “group” polygons.

Special Consideration around Aspen:

• Do not designate any groups within 50 feet of live aspen trees in SE corner and do not include this area in calculations of interspace.

Regen openings:

• Record a point and dbh for ponderosa pine >6” dbh to be retained within regeneration openings (yellow pines, other reserve trees, or desirable young trees 6-9” dbh). Mark all retained blackjacks and transitioning blackjacks, but not obvious yellow pines.

• Always record a residual BA of “0” for regeneration openings. BA will be calculated from the dbh estimated for individual trees.

• The VSS for regen openings should be recorded as a VSS 1 if no existing desirable advance regeneration exists and VSS 2 if any existing desirable advance regeneration exists. Do not record a VSS >2.

• If desirable advance regeneration <6” dbh exists within a regeneration opening, record an estimate of the total # of desirable trees.

Notes:

• Only marker’s initials and notes to the logger should be recorded in the “Notes” section within groups and regeneration openings.

• Notes for somebody to follow up on (i.e., potential archy sites, trees with stick nests, etc.) should be designated as a point, line, or area of interest.

Different Group Sizes1

Typical Intra-Group (within-group)

Densities1

VSS

DBH

Range

1/10 acre group

¼ acre group

½ acre group

¾ acre group acre group Basal Area

(ft2/acre) 3 5 - 11.9 15 38 76 114 152 60

4 12 - 17.9” 8 20 41 61 81 100 5 18 - 23.9” 4 10 21 31 42 100 6 24”+ 3 7 14 21 28 110

1 These are typical values required to achieve the desired stand-level stocking for the midpoint diameter. Variation between groups can occur and is highly desirable; however, ranges should center on these values. If trees are larger, then the midpoint diameter, less trees would be retained; if trees are smaller, then more trees would be retained.

anticipated; minor crooks, sweeps, and tight forks which are < 50% of total tree height are acceptable if the tree is

Trees that otherwise may be considered non-desirable but contribute significantly to vertical structure (i.e., contain en t C on di en tit y

Project Name NEPA Unit Acres Unit is dominated by ponderosa, with incidental Gambel oak and juniper intermixed. One live aspen was also observed in stand 143-20. Stand structure is relatively two-aged with a variable BA, averaging ~120 ft2/ac.

Yellow pines are common and patchily distributed. Ponderosa regeneration is limited, with very little manageable. DM infection was observed along the toe of the slope in stand 143-02 and in the NE corner of stand 143-15. Unit contains low-moderate levels of CWD and a limited number of snags >18” dbh/drc, averaging <0.1/acre. All stands except 143-20 were classified in the EIS as heavily stocked with a preponderance of large, young trees.

Dutton Hill – Sliker 4FRI EIS 14 140 Forest / District Location(s) Site(s) Coconino NF/Flagstaff RD 143 02,15,20,21 Township Range Section(s) T20N R5E 13 tm en t P la n

Silvicultural Treatment: Group sel. w/ free thin (UEA40-High End NRV) Prescribed by: /s/ M. Nabel Date: 10/18/18 Logging Method: Ground-based Slash Treatment: Remove biomass (lop/scatter residual to <2’ in ht) Constraints and Other Considerations:

Unit contains a rare plant (Astragalus rusbyii), a protected streamcourse, and occurs along a sensitive road (FR 231). Follow BMPs and mitigation measures during operations.

Use directional mark within 100’ of FR 231.

Non-Commercial (Small Tree) Thinning: Priority: Low

Si te

S ta nd

O ve rv ie w Slope % Aspect Elevation Soil Type Productivity

Retain all desirable ponderosa <6” dbh. Cut all non-desirable ponderosa <6” dbh.

0-40 Variable 7,300 Basalt High VSS Range (Dom.) BA Range (Avg.) Regeneration Habitat Type

3-5(4) 80-160 (120) Low PIPO/FEAR,PIPO/MUMO

La yo ut Boundary Designation:

Double orange horizontal bands facing towards unit

Overstory Composition (by % BA) Regen Composition (by % TPA)

99% PP, 1% GO, <1% JU, <1% AS 99% PP, <1% GO, <1% JU

Tree Designation: DxP+ (tablet) w/ suppl. LTM (live ponderosa >6” dbh) DMI (Avg.) % Area Infected Other Damaging Agents Layout completed by: Date: 4 10-20% None observed Marking verified by: Date: PP = ponderosa pine; GO = Gambel oak; JU = juniper spp.; AS = aspen

O

Cutting Unit: 14 Acres: 140

• Improve structural diversity and move towards an uneven-aged condition.

• Maintain species diversity, including a healthy oak component where it exists, within the stand.

• Reduce the overall level of dwarf mistletoe infection.

• Broadcast burn to maintain low surface fuel loading, further promote a vigorous understory shrub/herb

• Retain all yellow pine, Gambel oak, aspen, and juniper, regardless of form, health, or vigor. This supersedes all other specifications.

• Retain ponderosa >18” dbh with existing cavities, dead tops and lightning scars as wildlife trees.

• Retain inaccessible trees and trees that cannot be cut without causing significant damage to residual trees (bole damage to trees >6” dbh/drc or top breakage to trees >9” dbh/drc).

• Tree groups should be created across 60% of the stand area. Interspaces and regeneration openings should be created across the remaining 40% of the stand area.

• Retain a variable BA that averages ~60 ft2/ac at the stand-level (nearly all ponderosa), including any deferrals.

Special Considerations:

• Retain all desirable/acceptable bank stabilization trees >9” dbh along channel of protected streamcourse (Fig. 1).

• Minimize interspace widths and avoid placing regeneration openings within protected streamcourses.

Regeneration Openings (including VSS 1-2 groups):

• Create irregularly shaped regeneration openings across 10% of the unit.

• Openings shall be placed in areas containing no infected yellow pines that will be surrounded by little to no mistletoe infection after opening is created. Openings may contain Gambel oak/juniper. Priority for opening placement shall be as follows:

1. In areas with moderate to abundant (>10 TPA) desirable young ponderosa <6” dbh.

2. In areas overstocked with ponderosa from the most prevalent size classes (9-14” dbh).

3. In small pockets of mistletoe infection (<1 acre) where all visibly infected trees plus a 30-40 foot buffer

(to capture latent infection) can be removed.

• Opening size shall generally range from 0.3 to 1.0 acre, but may be as large as 2 acres. The maximum width for openings is 200 feet.

• Cut all ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine) within regeneration openings with the following exceptions:

1. Retain desirable young ponderosa 6-9” dbh.

2. In openings >1 acre not containing an abundance of desirable young ponderosa <9” dbh (>50 TPA), retain 3-5 reserve trees (largest, most desirable trees including yellow pine).

Tree Groups / Interspaces (in surrounding matrix):

• Thin ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine), leaving trees in irregularly shaped groups.

• Concentrate groups in areas with (a) an abundance of desirable and acceptable trees, (b) an abundance of trees

>18” dbh, (c) a prevalence of deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity, and (d) large logs >18” diameter.

Pre-settlement evidences may be used to help guide group placement/size.

• Vary group size from 0.1 to 1 acre(s), with the following distribution:

(a) 20% 0.1-0.25 acre (b) 30% 0.25-0.5 acre (c) 50% 0.5-1.0 acre

• Within groups, thin to the average densities shown in Table 1, generally retaining desirable and acceptable trees (Table 2) from across the range of available size classes. Additional non-desirable trees may be left if needed to meet density targets. Strive for irregular spacing within groups and the retention of some trees with interlocking crowns.

• Leave ~10% of groups unthinned, focusing in areas with deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity.

• Distance between groups, measured dripline to dripline, shall average 60-100 feet (generally stick closer to 60 feet between most groups), with the distance between groups infected with mistletoe and groups not infected at the upper end of the range. Interspaces may contain Gambel oak/juniper.

• Between groups, cut all ponderosa 6-18” dbh (except yellow pine). Retain up to one ponderosa >18” dbh per

• Groups under this Rx should be a mix of “free thin” and “thin-below”, with “free thin” chosen when desirable/acceptable trees exist across a range of size classes. Use “thin-below” when no opportunity exists to leave desirable/acceptable smaller trees.

• Designate ~10% of groups as “no cutting” to help maintain a high level of structural diversity. If a “no cutting” group is designated in an area due to operability or other issues, state the reason in the “Notes” section.

Group Size:

• The minimum size for designated groups is 1/10th acre (4,356 ft2). For groups <1/10th acre, designate individual trees per the discussion below.

• For groups <1/4 acre in size, in addition to residual BA, also record an estimate of the total # of residual trees. Do not use this field for groups >1/4 acre in size or regeneration openings.

Individual Trees w/in Interspaces and groups <1/10th acre:

• Record a point and dbh for ponderosa pine >6” dbh to be retained between groups and within groups <1/10th acre (including wildlife trees and bank stabilization trees, but not inaccessible trees). Mark all retained blackjacks and transitioning blackjacks, but not obvious yellow pines.

• Do not designate individual trees within any of the “group” polygons.

Regen openings:

• Record a point and dbh for ponderosa pine >6” dbh to be retained within regeneration openings (yellow pines, other reserve trees, or desirable young trees 6-9” dbh). Mark all retained blackjacks and transitioning blackjacks, but not obvious yellow pines.

• Always record a residual BA of “0” for regeneration openings. BA will be calculated from the dbh estimated for individual trees.

• The VSS for regen openings should be recorded as a VSS 1 if no existing desirable advance regeneration exists and VSS 2 if any existing desirable advance regeneration exists. Do not record a VSS >2.

• If desirable advance regeneration <6” dbh exists within a regeneration opening, record an estimate of the total # of desirable trees.

Notes:

• Only marker’s initials and notes to the logger should be recorded in the “Notes” section within groups and regeneration openings.

• Notes for somebody to follow up on (i.e., potential archy sites, trees with stick nests, etc.) should be

Different Group Sizes1

Typical Intra-Group (within-group)

Densities1

VSS

DBH

Range

1/10 acre group

¼ acre group

½ acre group

¾ acre group acre group Basal Area

(ft2/acre) 3 5 - 11.9 15 38 76 114 152 60

4 12 - 17.9” 8 20 41 61 81 100 5 18 - 23.9” 4 10 21 31 42 100 6 24”+ 3 7 14 21 28 110

1 These are typical values required to achieve the desired stand-level stocking for the midpoint diameter. Variation between groups can occur and is highly desirable; however, ranges should center on these values. If trees are larger, then the midpoint diameter, less trees would be retained; if trees are smaller, then more trees would be retained.

anticipated; minor crooks, sweeps, and tight forks which are < 50% of total tree height are acceptable if the tree is

Trees that otherwise may be considered non-desirable but contribute significantly to vertical structure (i.e., contain

Figure 1. Examples of bank stabilization trees.

en t C on di en tit y

Project Name NEPA Unit Acres Unit is dominated by ponderosa, with abundant Gambel oak and a few juniper intermixed. Stand structure is relatively two-aged with a variable BA, averaging ~140 ft2/ac. Yellow pines are rare and patchy. Ponderosa regeneration is moderate and patchy, with ~1/3 manageable. Gambel oak is most abundant in S half of Unit, with little occurring in stand 141-07.

DM infection was observed in scattered pockets across the unit, but the most severe infection was observed in the E central portion. Some blowdown from a 2010 tornado runs N-S through W half of unit. Unit contains low-high levels of CWD, with most of the high levels in the blowdown area. Unit contains a limited number of snags >18” dbh/drc, averaging <0.1/acre. Stands 141-05 and 141-06 were classified in the EIS as heavily stocked with a preponderance of large, young trees. Stand 141- 09 was classified as encroached grassland.

Dutton Hill – Everett 4FRI EIS 24 500 Forest / District Location(s) Site(s) Coconino NF/Flagstaff RD 141 05,06,07,09 Township Range Section(s) T20N R5E 17 tm en t P la n

Silvicultural Treatment: Group sel. w/ free thin (UEA40-High End NRV);

Grassland restoration

Prescribed by: /s/ M. Nabel Date: 11/06/18 Logging Method: Ground-based Slash Treatment: Remove biomass (lop/scatter residual to <2’ in ht) Constraints and Other Considerations:

None specific to unit.

Non-Commercial (Small Tree) Thinning: Priority: High

Si te

S ta nd

O ve rv ie w Slope % Aspect Elevation Soil Type Productivity

Retain all desirable ponderosa <6” dbh. Cut all non-desirable ponderosa <6” dbh.

0-30 Variable 7,000 Basalt Variable VSS Range (Dom.) BA Range (Avg.) Regeneration Habitat Type

3-4(3) 80-180 (140) Moderate PIPO/QUGA/MUMO

La yo ut

Boundary Designation:

Double orange horizontal bands facing towards unit (orange dots between 24A,24B)

Overstory Composition (by % BA) Regen Composition (by % TPA)

86% PP, 11% GO, 3% JU 84% GO, 13% PP, 3% JU

Tree Designation: 24A - DxP+ (tablet) w/ suppl. LTM (live ponderosa >6” dbh); 24B - LTM (live ponderosa >6” dbh) DMI (Avg.) % Area Infected Other Damaging Agents

Layout completed by: Date: 3 20-30% Tornado blowdown Marking verified by: Date: PP = ponderosa pine; GO = Gambel oak; JU = juniper spp.

O

Cutting Unit: 24 Acres: 500 Silvicultural Treatment: Group selection with free thinning in matrix (24A); Grassland Restoration (24B)

• Improve structural diversity and move towards an uneven-aged condition.

• Maintain species diversity, including a healthy oak component where it exists, within the stand.

• Reduce the overall level of dwarf mistletoe infection.

• Broadcast burn to maintain low surface fuel loading, further promote a vigorous understory shrub/herb component, and reduce the intensity/severity of future fires

• Restore the grassland in Unit 24B.

• Retain all yellow pine, Gambel oak, aspen, and juniper, regardless of form, health, or vigor. This supersedes all other specifications.

• Retain ponderosa >18” dbh with existing cavities, dead tops and lightning scars as wildlife trees.

• Retain inaccessible trees and trees that cannot be cut without causing significant damage to residual trees (bole damage to trees >6” dbh/drc or top breakage to trees >9” dbh/drc).

• Tree groups should be created across 60% of the stand area. Interspaces and regeneration openings should be created across the remaining 40% of the stand area.

• Retain a variable BA that averages 70 ft2/ac at the stand-level (~50 ft2/ac ponderosa and ~20 ft2/ac Gambel oak/juniper), including any deferrals.

Special Considerations:

• Retain all desirable/acceptable bank stabilization trees >9” dbh along channel of protected streamcourse (Fig. 1).

• Minimize interspace widths and avoid placing regeneration openings within protected streamcourses.

• In Unit 24B (LTM), restore the grassland by retaining one ponderosa within 50 feet of each pre-settlement evidence (Fig. 2), focusing on the most desirable tree available for retention.

Regeneration Openings (including VSS 1-2 groups):

• Create irregularly shaped regeneration openings across 10% of the unit.

• Openings shall be placed in areas containing no infected yellow pines that will be surrounded by little to no mistletoe infection after opening is created. Openings may contain Gambel oak/juniper. Priority for opening placement shall be as follows:

1. In areas with moderate to abundant (>10 TPA) desirable young ponderosa <6” dbh.

2. In areas overstocked with ponderosa from the most prevalent size classes (9-14” dbh).

3. In small pockets of mistletoe infection (<1 acre) where all visibly infected trees plus a 30-40 foot buffer

(to capture latent infection) can be removed.

• Opening size shall generally range from 0.3 to 1.0 acre, but may be as large as 2 acres. The maximum width for openings is 200 feet.

• Cut all ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine) within regeneration openings with the following exceptions:

1. Retain desirable young ponderosa 6-9” dbh.

2. In openings >1 acre not containing an abundance of desirable young ponderosa <9” dbh (>50 TPA), retain 3-5 reserve trees (largest, most desirable trees including yellow pine).

Tree Groups / Interspaces (in surrounding matrix):

• Thin ponderosa >6” dbh (except yellow pine), leaving trees in irregularly shaped groups.

• Concentrate groups in areas with (a) an abundance of desirable and acceptable trees, (b) an abundance of trees

>18” dbh, (c) a prevalence of deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity, and (d) large logs >18” diameter.

Pre-settlement evidences may be used to help guide group placement/size.

• Vary group size from 0.1 to 1 acre(s), with the following distribution:

(a) 20% 0.1-0.25 acre (b) 30% 0.25-0.5 acre (c) 50% 0.5-1.0 acre

• Within groups, thin to the average densities shown in Table 1, generally retaining desirable and acceptable trees (Table 2) from across the range of available size classes. Additional non-desirable trees may be left if needed to meet density targets. Strive for irregular spacing within groups and the retention of some trees with interlocking crowns.

• Leave ~10% of groups unthinned, focusing in areas with deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity.

• Distance between groups, measured dripline to dripline, shall average 60-100 feet (generally stick closer to 60 feet between most groups), with the distance between groups infected with mistletoe and groups not infected at the upper end of the range. Interspaces may contain Gambel oak/juniper.

• Between groups, cut all ponderosa 6-18” dbh (except yellow pine). Retain up to one ponderosa >18” dbh per

• Groups under this Rx should be a mix of “free thin” and “thin-below”, with “free thin” chosen when desirable/acceptable trees exist across a range of size classes. Use “thin-below” when no opportunity exists to leave desirable/acceptable smaller trees.

• Designate ~10% of groups as “no cutting” to help maintain a high level of structural diversity. If a “no cutting” group is designated in an area due to operability or other issues, state the reason in the “Notes” section.

Group Size:

• The minimum size for designated groups is 1/10th acre (4,356 ft2). For groups <1/10th acre, designate individual trees per the discussion below.

• For groups <1/4 acre in size, in addition to residual BA, also record an estimate of the total # of residual trees. Do not use this field for groups >1/4 acre in size or regeneration openings.

Individual Trees w/in Interspaces and groups <1/10th acre:

• Record a point and dbh for ponderosa pine >6” dbh to be retained between groups and within groups <1/10th acre (including wildlife trees and bank stabilization trees, but not inaccessible trees). Mark all retained blackjacks and transitioning blackjacks, but not obvious yellow pines.

• Do not designate individual trees within any of the “group” polygons.

Regen openings:

• Record a point and dbh for ponderosa pine >6” dbh to be retained within regeneration openings (yellow pines, other reserve trees, or desirable young trees 6-9” dbh). Mark all retained blackjacks and transitioning blackjacks, but not obvious yellow pines.

• Always record a residual BA of “0” for regeneration openings. BA will be calculated from the dbh estimated for individual trees.

• The VSS for regen openings should be recorded as a VSS 1 if no existing desirable advance regeneration exists and VSS 2 if any existing desirable advance regeneration exists. Do not record a VSS >2.

• If desirable advance regeneration <6” dbh exists within a regeneration opening, record an estimate of the total # of desirable trees.

Notes:

• Only marker’s initials and notes to the logger should be recorded in the “Notes” section within groups and regeneration openings.

• Notes for somebody to follow up on (i.e., potential archy sites, trees with stick nests, etc.) should be

Different Group Sizes1

Typical Intra-Group (within-group)

Densities1

VSS

DBH

Range

1/10 acre group

¼ acre group

½ acre group

¾ acre group acre group Basal Area

(ft2/acre) 3 5 - 11.9 15 38 76 114 152 60

4 12 - 17.9” 8 20 41 61 81 100 5 18 - 23.9” 4 10 21 31 42 100 6 24”+ 3 7 14 21 28 110

1 These are typical values required to achieve the desired stand-level stocking for the midpoint diameter. Variation between groups can occur and is highly desirable; however, ranges should center on these values. If trees are larger, then the midpoint diameter, less trees would be retained; if trees are smaller, then more trees would be retained.

anticipated; minor crooks, sweeps, and tight forks which are < 50% of total tree height are acceptable if the tree is

Trees that otherwise may be considered non-desirable but contribute significantly to vertical structure (i.e., contain

Pre-settlement Evidences: indicators of trees standing at the time of Euro-American settlement that are no longer present as living trees; includes yellow pine snags; large, usually heavily decomposed, downed logs; high stumps with intact heartwood; large low stumps with evidence of yellow bark; and large stump holes.

Figure 2a. Examples of pre-settlement evidences.

Figure 2b. Examples of stumps that do not constitute pre-settlement evidences.

High stumps with intact heartwood – most common

Large, old, uprooted log with heartwood intact. Yellow pine snag

Large low stump with yellow bark

Low Stump with rotten heartwood and no yellow bark. Oak stumps.

en t C on di en tit y

Project Name NEPA Unit Acres Unit is dominated by ponderosa, with abundant Gambel oak and incidental juniper. Stand structure is relatively two-aged with a variable BA, averaging ~140 ft2/ac. Yellow pines are incidental. Ponderosa regeneration is moderate, with ~1/10 manageable. DM infection was most abundant and most severe along N edge of unit, but was detected in a few other locations across unit. Unit contains low-moderate levels of CWD, and a limited number of snags >18” dbh/drc, averaging ~0.2/acre.

Dutton Hill – Everett 4FRI EIS 28 103 Forest / District Location(s) Site(s) Coconino NF/Flagstaff RD 155 02(S),03(N) Township Range Section(s) T20N R5E 16,21 tm en t P la n

Silvicultural Treatment: Group sel. w/ free thin to 24”(MSO Restricted) Prescribed by: /s/ M. Nabel Date: 11/05/18 Logging Method: Ground-based Slash Treatment: Remove biomass (lop/scatter residual to <2’ in ht) Constraints and Other Considerations:

Unit contains a protected streamcourse. Follow BMPs and mitigation measures during operations.

Non-Commercial (Small Tree) Thinning: Priority: High

Si te

S ta nd

O ve rv ie w Slope % Aspect Elevation Soil Type Productivity

Retain all desirable ponderosa <6” dbh. Cut all non-desirable ponderosa <6” dbh.

0-30 Variable 7,200 Basalt High VSS Range (Dom.) BA Range (Avg.) Regeneration Habitat Type

3-4(4) 80-190 (140) Moderate PIPO/QUGA/MUMO

La yo ut Boundary Designation:

Double orange horizontal bands facing towards unit

Overstory Composition (by % BA) Regen Composition (by % TPA)

87% PP, 22% GO, 1% JU 80% GO, 15% PP, 5% JU

Tree Designation: DxP+ (tablet) w/ suppl. LTM (live ponderosa >6” dbh) DMI (Avg.) % Area Infected Other Damaging Agents Layout completed by: Date: 4 30-40% None observed Marking verified by: Date: PP = ponderosa pine; GO = Gambel oak; JU = juniper spp.

O

Cutting Unit: 28 Acres: 103

• Manage for suitable habitat conditions within MSO restricted (foraging/non-breeding recovery) habitat.

• Reduce stand density and improve individual tree vigor and growth.

• Improve structural diversity and move towards an uneven-aged condition, while retaining most large trees.

• Maintain a multilayered canopy, including a vigorous midstory comprised of oak and ponderosa of various sizes.

• Maintain species diversity by reducing competition around oak, while still providing sufficient canopy cover and good perch trees (with lower limbs) above and around many individual or clumps of oak trees

• Reduce the overall level of dwarf mistletoe infection.

• Broadcast burn to maintain low surface fuel loading, further promote a vigorous understory shrub/herb component, and reduce the intensity/severity of future fires.

• Dispose of most activity slash through either piling and burning or removal from the site.

• Retain all yellow pine, all ponderosa >24” dbh, most ponderosa >18” dbh outside of regeneration openings, juniper, and Gambel oak, regardless of form, health, or vigor. This supersedes all other specifications.

• Retain ponderosa >18” dbh with existing cavities, dead tops and lightning scars as wildlife trees

• Retain inaccessible trees and trees that cannot be cut without causing significant damage to residual trees (bole damage to trees >6” dbh/drc or top breakage to trees >9” dbh/drc).

• Tree groups should be created across 60% of the stand area. Interspaces and regeneration openings should be created across the remaining 40% of the stand area.

• Retain a variable BA that averages ~70 ft2/ac at the stand-level (~40 ft2/ac ponderosa and ~30 ft2/ac Gambel oak/juniper), including any deferrals.

Special Considerations:

• Retain all desirable/acceptable bank stabilization trees >9” dbh along channel of protected streamcourse (Fig. 1).

• Minimize interspace widths and avoid placing regeneration openings within protected streamcourses.

Regeneration Openings (including VSS 1-2 groups):

• Create irregularly shaped regeneration openings across 10% of the unit.

• Openings shall be placed in areas containing no infected yellow pines that will be surrounded by little to no mistletoe infection after opening is created. Openings may contain Gambel oak. Priority for opening placement shall be as follows:

1. In areas with moderate to abundant (>10 TPA) desirable young ponderosa <6” dbh.

2. In areas overstocked with ponderosa from the most prevalent size classes (9-14” dbh).

3. In small pockets of mistletoe infection (<1 acre) where all visibly infected trees plus a 30-40 foot buffer

(to capture latent infection) can be removed.

• Opening size shall generally range from 0.3 to 1.0 acre, but may be as large as 2.5 acres. The maximum width for openings is 200 feet.

• Cut all ponderosa 6-24” dbh (except yellow pine) within regeneration openings with the following exceptions:

1. Retain desirable young ponderosa 6-9” dbh.

2. In openings >1 acre not containing an abundance of desirable young ponderosa <9” dbh (>50 TPA), retain one group of 3-5 reserve trees (largest, most desirable trees including yellow pine and other ponderosa >24” dbh)

Tree Groups / Interspaces (in surrounding matrix):

• Thin ponderosa 6-24” dbh (except yellow pine), leaving trees in irregularly shaped groups.

• Concentrate groups in areas with (a) an abundance of desirable and acceptable trees, (b) an abundance of trees

>18” dbh, (c) a prevalence of deep crowns and high vertical structural diversity, and (d) large logs >18” diameter.

Concentrate some groups around large oak. Pre-settlement evidences may be used to help guide group placement/size.

• Vary group size from 0.1 to 2.5 acre(s),…