Attachment 6 - Georgia Forestry Manual.pdf

Physiographic Regions of Georgia

Georgia’s

Best Management

Practices for Forestry

Foreword Georgia’s Best Management Practices for Forestry

The purpose of this manual is to inform landowners, foresters, timber buyers, loggers, site preparation and reforestation contractors, and others involved with silvicultural operations about common-sense, economical and effective practices to minimize non-point source pollution (soil erosion and stream sedimentation) and thermal pollution. These minimum practices are called BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES and are commonly referred to as BMPs. They were initially developed in 1981 by a Forestry Non-Point Source Pollution Technical Task Force as required by the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. That act mandated states to develop a program to protect and improve the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of the nation’s waters so they remain “fishable” and “swimmable” for today’s and future generations.

Due to changes in technology and the rules and regulations governing land disturbing activities, the forestry community and regulators encouraged a revision of the 1981 BMPs. A separate set of wetland BMPs were developed in 1989 which were incorporated into the 1999 comprehensive manual by a similar task force.

Between 1999 and 2009, additional guidance was developed, mainly concerning floodplain features, and those were incorporated into the 2009 manual by a similar task force. Since 2009, some additional clarifications and updates have been developed and incorporated into this latest 2019 version of the manual with guidance from a similar task force of stakeholders. This 2019 manual represents the collective best efforts to establish sound, responsible, guiding principles for silvicultural operations in the State of Georgia.

Note: Words in Italics are found in the glossary.

Legal justice scale denotes mandated law or requirement.

A “no” symbol indicated practices to avoid.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The Georgia Environmental Protection Division, the Georgia Forestry Commission and the

Georgia Forestry Association wish to express appreciation to those organizations and individuals that contributed to the development and review of this publication. These individuals are listed under Contributors and Sources of Information (See page 79).

THE PUBLICATION OF THIS DOCUMENT WAS SUPPORTED BY THE GEORGIA ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DIVISION AND WAS FINANCED IN PART THROUGH A GRANT FROM THE U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 319(h) OF THE FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ACT, AS AMENDED.

JANUARY 2019

Table of Contents

Foreword

Acknowledgments

Section 1.0 Introduction

Section 2.0 Planning for Water Quality

Section 2.1 Streamside Management Zones

Section 2.2 Special Management Areas

Section 3.0 Road Location, Construction, Stream Crossings Maintenance, and Retirement

Section 4.0 Timber Harvesting

Section 5.0 Site Preparation and Reforestation

Section 6.0 Management and Protection

Section 7.0 Additional Management Objectives

Section 8.0 Appendix

Federal, State and Local Laws Affecting Landowners

References

Glossary

Contributors and Sources of Information

Georgia’s 24.2 million acres of commercial forests provide a variety of benefits for the people of the state. In addition to forest products, forests provide clean water, clean air, soil conservation, wildlife habitat, flora and fauna, and opportunities for recreation, aesthetics, education, and research. These forests are managed by landowners with varying objectives and their individual management decisions may be designed to support a broad variety of specific focused benefits related to the list above and others from Section 7.0, page 56. Figure 1-A shows the percentage of forest land in the state and Figure 1-B indicates the ownership makeup of that forest land.

Georgia has 44,056 miles of perennial streams (approximately 4,000 miles of which are designated as mountain trout waters), 23,906 miles of intermittent streams and 603 miles of ditches and canals for a total of 68,565 stream miles. The state also has 425,382 acres of public lakes and reservoirs, 4.8 million acres of wetlands (nine percent tidally affected), 854 square miles of estuaries and 100 miles of coastline. This document emphasizes the protection of the state's water resources, when conducting forestry operations, through Best Management Practices

(BMPs) in controlling or minimizing soil erosion and stream sedimentation. BMPs are the most appropriate or applicable practices to attain a silvicultural goal while protecting the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of the state’s waters.

Section 1.0 Introduction

Figure 1-B Georgia’s Commercial Forest Ownership

Figure 1-A Georgia’s Land Use

Other corporate 16%

Reserved Timberland 1%

Non-Forested Acres 34%

Commercial Forest Land 65%

Forest industry 18%

Other public 5%

1.2

14.3 4.3

.6 National forests 3%

Family forests 58%

Note: Numbers on pie chart represent million acres.

By using proper forest management and sound conservation practices including BMPs, forests can continue to provide benefits for future generations. Failure to follow BMPs may result in civil and criminal fines and penalties. Some counties already require plan reviews, permits, fees, performance bonds and compliance audits. See Section 8.3, page 65. Therefore, to prevent any potential water quality problems, it is in the best interest of everyone involved in silvicultural operations to properly plan and supervise their operations.

By consistently following BMPs, problems can be avoided or corrected as soon as possible.

Since 1978, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) has been designated by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) as the lead agency to coordinate the forestry water quality program. The program’s primary responsibilities include: educating the forestry community on BMPs through training and demonstrations; conducting BMP use and effectiveness monitoring surveys; and investigating and mediating forestry water quality complaints.

“It is in the best interest of everyone involved in sivicultural operations to properly plan and supervise their operations by consistently following BMPs to prevent any potential water quality problems.”

For more information about BMPs, contact the Georgia Forestry Commission, 5645 Riggins Mill Rd., Dry Branch, GA, 31020, 1-800-GA-TREES or visit us at GaTrees.org.

Section 2.0 Planning for Water Quality

Any forest management activity, regardless of potential impact on water quality, should be thoroughly planned. Whether the activity involves seasoned timber buyers or landowners selling timber for the first time, the planning process should address the objectives of the proposed activity as well as potential impacts of all actions that disturb the soil surface or impact water quality. The planning process should help identify sensitive areas and applicable BMPs to be used during timber sales, road construction, stream crossings, harvesting, site preparation, reforestation, and herbicide applications. The planning process should help identify terms and conditions of a written contract for any forestry practice. While BMPs do not specifically require written plans, it is generally a sound practice to maintain written records of any forest management activity on the land. Plans should include:

• History of the site including past land use,

• Identification of sensitive areas such as perennial and intermittent streams, ephemeral areas, lakes, ponds, wetlands, steep slopes, highly erosive or hydric soils, active gully systems, etc.,

• Regulations and/or permitting requirements and location, type, timing and logistics of each activity.

Useful resources for planning forest operations include United States Geologic

Survey (USGS) topographic maps, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) county soil survey maps with interpretations, aerial photographs and tax maps.

These maps can help users locate tract boundaries and sensitive areas. Because no map is 100 percent accurate, they should be used as a reference to identify potentially sensitive areas that must then be verified and plotted during field reconnaissance to minimize impacts on them before silvicultural operations begin.

GFC Offices can assist with finding soil maps, aerial maps, topographic maps, etc.

The NRCS maintains soil and topographic maps at local field offices where field personnel can assist in map and resource information interpretation. These maps can be accessed by visiting www.websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov.

Water quality protection begins with recognizing watercourses and water bodies. According to the federal Clean Water Act, “waters of the U.S.” include lakes, rivers, perennial and intermittent streams, wetlands, sloughs or natural ponds. Georgia law (OCGA 12-7-3.13) defines “waters of the state” to mean all rivers, streams, creeks, branches, lakes, reservoirs, ponds, drainage systems, springs, wells, and other bodies of surface or subsurface water, natural or artificial, lying within or forming part of the boundaries of the state that are not entirely confined and retained completely upon the property of a single individual, partnership or corporation.

Identifying stream types (perennial, intermittent, or ephemeral) is important in prescribing the level of protection through the implementation of BMPs listed in this manual. USGS topographic maps and NRCS county soil maps can be used as a reference to identify stream types. Where available, they should be cross-referenced and field verified. See Figure 2-A.

Figure 2-A:

The following examples illustrate the same tract of land showing how streams are identified as they appear in different types of available maps. Left, USGS topo map. Bottom left, NRCS county soil survey map.

Bottom right, NRCS web soil survey map.

Stream Types Perennial streams flow in a well-defined channel throughout most of the year under normal climatic conditions. Some may dry up during drought periods or due to excessive upstream uses. They are usually identified as solid blue lines on USGS topographic maps and as either solid black or black lines separated by one dot on NRCS soil maps. Aquatic organisms are normally present and easily found in these streams.

Intermittent streams flow in a well-defined channel during wet seasons of the year but not for the entire year. They generally exhibit signs of water velocity sufficient to move soil material, litter and fine debris. They are usually identified as blue lines separated by three dots on USGS topographic maps and as black lines separated by two or more dots on NRCS soil maps. Aquatic organisms often are difficult to find or not present at all in these streams.

Ephemeral areas can direct stormflow into surface waters. Care should be taken to minimize these areas from becoming sources of pollutants. For a more detailed description and BMPs for ephemeral areas, see page 19.

The landowner or manager may be familiar with a stream’s flow characteristics and make the determination of stream type. In some cases there may be uncertainty. For example, ephemeral areas may be difficult to locate when they are not actively flowing. In such situations, consult a qualified professional.

2.1 STREAMSIDE MANAGEMENT ZONES (SMZs)

Streamside Management Zones (SMZs) are buffer strips adjacent to perennial or intermittent streams or other bodies of water (lakes, ponds, reservoirs, etc.) that should be managed with special considerations to protect water quality. Trees and other vegetation in the SMZ provide shade that buffers water temperatures;

woody debris vital to the aquatic ecosystem; natural filtration of sediment and other pollutants (nutrients and pesticides): and travel corridors and habitat for wildlife. SMZs also provide some flood protection by dissipating the velocity of moving water.

When planning and laying out harvest or treatment areas, SMZs should be identified on maps or aerial photos and clearly designated in the field with paint or flagging. You should also identify local, state or federal regulations that may supersede or mandate the use of BMPs, such as those for protected water-supply reservoirs/watersheds or protected river corridors.

Planning for Water Quality

2.1.1 Perennial and Intermittent Stream SMZ Width Recommendations There is no uniform formula to determine the appropriate width of an SMZ.

In general, however, the steeper the slope and more erosive the soil, the wider the SMZ should be. Slope should be determined at 100-feet perpendicular to the streambank. Therefore, SMZ widths may vary along a stream’s course and on opposite sides of the same stream. SMZs should be measured along the ground from the streambank on each side of the stream and not from the centerline of the stream (Refer to Figure 2-B and Table 2-A).

Note: Words in italics are found in the glossary.

Note: % slope = rise in vertical feet horizontal run in feet

Example: 23' vertical over 100’ horizontal distance equals 23% slope

100'

23'

21%-40% Slope (Moderate)

0%-20% Slope (Slight)

41%+ Slope (Steep)

Figure 2-B. Diagram Showing How to Determine Slope

Table 2-A. SMZ Widths by Slope Class and Stream Type

Perennial (ft) Intermittent (ft) Perennial Trout Stream (ft)

Intermittent Trout Stream (ft)

Slight (<20%) 40 20 100 35

Moderate (21%-40%) 70 35 100 35

Steep (>40%) 100 50 100 50

Minimum Width (ft) of SMZ on each side Slope Class

Remember that these are recommended minimum widths, and conditions such as unstable or erosive soils or lack of ground cover may warrant a wider

SMZ for adequate water quality protection. SMZs also have a limited filtering capacity and are not intended to correct problems created by poor upslope or adjacent practices.

2.1.1.1 BMPs for Perennial and Intermittent Stream SMZs

(Does NOT include trout streams. Trout stream BMPs are discussed in 2.1.2)

Management activities may occur within an SMZ provided that the disturbance to soil or ground cover is minimized. Water quality objectives should prevent movement of soil or other potential pollutants from within the SMZ into the watercourse and protect streambank integrity. The BMPs associated with typical silvicultural activities are listed below.

• Identify any local, state, or federal regulations that may supersede or mandate the use of BMPs.

• Determine and designate the appropriate SMZ widths on site prior to conducting any timber sale or forest practice.

• Along perennial streams, leave an average of 50 square feet of basal area per acre evenly distributed throughout the zone or at least 50% canopy cover after a harvest to provide shade.

• Along intermittent streams, leave an average of 25 square feet of basal area per acre evenly distributed throughout the zone or at least 25% canopy cover after a harvest to provide shade. Note that intermittent trout streams and intermittent trout stream tributaries will require a higher residual basal area as described further below (See Section 2.1.2.1, page 12).

• Minimize stream crossings. (See Section 3.3 page 30 and 4.3 page 40)

• Except at planned stream crossings, locate new access roads outside the SMZ.

• Maintain existing roads within SMZs with adequate water control structures and stabilization measures as needed. (See Section 3.2 page 27) If not possible, consider relocating road.

• Locate log decks, staging areas, and skid trails outside the SMZ, preferably on well-drained, stable soils.

• Where used, firebreaks should be installed parallel to streams and outside

SMZs. (See Section 5.5 page 49)

• Minimize the intensity of a prescribed fire in the SMZ to maintain forest floor cover and protect the soil surface.

• Periodically inspect the SMZ and evaluate the effectiveness of the BMPs, adjusting practices when necessary.

• In case of storm damage or forest health issues, refer to “Storm Damage and Forest Health Issues in Streamside Management Zones” found in the

Appendix on page 67.

2.1.1.2 Practices to Avoid Within SMZs of Perennial and

Intermittent Streams

• Cutting streambank trees.

• Unnecessary access roads and main skid trails.

• Log decks.

• Portable sawmills.

• Significant soil compaction and rutting by harvesting equipment.

• Removal of ground cover or understory vegetation.

• Felling trees into the streambed or leaving logging debris in the stream.

• Servicing or refueling equipment.

• Mechanical site preparation and site preparation burning.

• Mechanical tree planting.

• Broadcast application of pesticides or fertilizers.

• Handling, mixing, or storing toxic or hazardous materials (fuels, lubricants, solvents, pesticides, or fertilizers).

2.1.2 Trout Streams

Trout require cool (less than 70°F), high-quality water. They, and the insects they eat, are extremely sensitive to sediment and thermal pollution (elevated water temperatures). Therefore, trout streams require additional protection.

Streams designated as Primary Trout Waters are waters supporting a self-sustaining population of rainbow, brown or brook trout. Streams designated as Secondary Trout Streams are those in which trout can survive but there is no evidence of natural trout reproduction. The Georgia DNR Wildlife

Resources Division publishes a list of Georgia’s trout streams, available at www.georgiawildlife.com. For regulation purposes, the Georgia EPD maintains a list of trout streams at www.gaepd.org.

2.1.2.1 SMZ Width Recommendation and BMPs for Trout Streams

• Establish SMZs on both sides of designated trout streams and tributaries according to the following options:

Option A: For perennial trout streams and tributaries, a minimum 100-feet SMZ that includes a no-harvest zone within the first 25-feet of primary or secondary trout streams. Timber harvests within the remaining 75-feet of the SMZ should leave an average of 50 square ft of basal area per acre or at least 50% canopy cover.

Option B: For perennial trout streams and tributaries within the 100-ft. SMZ, leave an average of 50 square feet of basal area per acre evenly distributed throughout the zone to provide shade. Option B may be selected if a qualified professional is consulted.

Option C: Intermittent trout streams and intermittent trout stream tributaries should have a 35 foot or 50 foot wide SMZ, depending on valley slopes, according to the

SMZ recommendations for slope on p. 9 of the BMP manual. (Note that the SMZ width of 20 feet corresponding to minimal stream valley slopes (0 to 20% slopes) is not recommended. In the event such minimal slopes are encountered in a trout stream watershed, use the 35 foot SMZ width.) Residual basal area requirements should be at least 50 sq. ft. of basal area per acre or higher within the SMZ for any trout stream or tributary within the SMZs of such trout streams or tributaries. The basal area should be evenly distributed within the SMZ to provide shade.

• Follow all other BMPs for any type of trout steam noting the proper SMZ requirements.

2.1.2.2 Practices to Avoid Within SMZ of Trout Streams

• Any forestry activity within 25 feet of the stream, unless using Option B or C.

• Mechanical site preparation and high intensity burns on ephemeral areas above trout waters.

2.2 SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREAS

Some water bodies in upland and bottomland areas have particular characteristics or regulatory requirements that require different management approaches. These include, but are not limited to canals and ditches, floodplain features, headwater areas, lakes and ponds, protected mountain tops, protected river corridors, sinkholes, water supply reservoirs/watersheds, and wetlands. In such situations, consult a qualified professional.

2.2.1 Canals and Ditches

Minor drainage to temporarily lower the water level on a wetland site during road construction, timber harvesting and site preparation is considered normal and exempt from 404 permitting. Most canals were established for flood control purposes prior to Section 404 guidance. Today, the construction of canals would most likely be considered major drainage and require Section 404 permits. Today, the construction of canals would most likely be considered major drainage and require Section 404 permits.

Construction of minor drainage ditches in wetlands is exempt from Section 404 permitting, provided:

• it does not result in the immediate or gradual conversion of a wetland to a non-wetland;

• it does not facilitate the conversion from one wetland use to another;

• it does not significantly modify a stream, lake, swamp, bog, or any other wetland or aquatic area constituting waters of the U.S.;

• it is not located in a SMZ.

2.2.1.1 BMPs for Canals and Ditches

• Maintenance of existing canals and ditches (C&Ds) is allowed, provided the original dimensions are not exceeded. This is normally conducted at the end of each timber stand rotation.

• In order to conduct maintenance dredging, access for equipment and the placement of spoil materials (sidecasting) is permitted along banks.

Therefore, there may not be a tree canopy on one or both sides immediately adjacent to C&Ds.

• Ditches constructed through non-wetland areas are not normally associated with natural stream channels. They dry out and water temperature violations should not be a problem. Therefore, no SMZ with basal area requirements is practical.

• Where C&Ds were established in old perennial and intermittent stream channels that are now acting as the stream, the establishment of SMZs with basal area requirements is appropriate. Evaluate on a case by case basis.

• Maintenance should occur during the dry season to prevent turbidity problems. If sediment is likely to move from C&Ds into a stream, consideration should be given to stabilization and sediment control measures, such as sloping and grassing of ditch banks and spoil piles.

The need for sediment control will be determined by soil type, the distance to a stream, and the amount of vegetated filter between the ditch and the stream.

Section 2.0 Planning for Water Quality

Figure 2-C: Schematic of Floodplain Physiographic Features and Elevational Cross-Section

(Modified from Mitsch and Gooselink, 1993 and Hodges, 1998.)

2.2.1.2 Practices to Avoid in Canals and Ditches

• Bedding that channels surface runoff into C&Ds, including road ditches.

• Placing logging and site preparation debris in C&Ds.

• Excessive crossings; where necessary, fill over culverts should be stabilized.

• Applying chemicals that are not labeled for aquatic applications directly to C&Ds with standing or flowing water.

2.2.2 Floodplain and Riparian Landforms

Floodplains support a wide variety of fluvial features, which perform diverse hydrologic, biological, and ecological functions. The objectives of this guidance are to better characterize floodplain features in terms of hydrology, geomorphology, and biology and also to provide better BMP guidance to protect water quality and biological integrity of these features.

The general goals of this guidance are to:

• Prevent movement of soil, fertilizer, and herbicide from forest operation areas into the surface water system.

• Maintain water temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels adequate for biotic survival.

• Maintain input of organic matter and coarse woody debris into water bodies.

• Maintain structural integrity of floodplain features.

Floodplain Features Overbank mainstem flows, mainstem backwater flow, floodplain groundwater drainage, and tributary inflows create many different features in floodplains

(Figure 2-C). Such features include the main river channel, upland tributaries, springs and seeps, continuous side channels, braided streams, drainage channels, floodway, river bottom flats, discontinuous side channels, backwater paleo channels, backwater swamps, isolated depressions, oxbows/ponds, front bars, natural levees, and ridges.

Although many of these features are broadly described as “sloughs,” there is obviously great variation in their origin and form.

The water quality effects of silvicultural activities along these features depend on the flood frequency and durations, flow regime or energy, and the types of forestry operations conducted. All of these factors should be considered when evaluating floodplain management. For example, if a discontinuous side channel is rarely connected to perennial streams, then it may serve as breeding habitat for amphibians, but is unlikely to serve as fish habitat. In this case, maintaining a stringer of bank trees to protect the stability of the feature and to provide some woody debris input is desired, but a larger streamside management zone (SMZ) for shade or for chemical adsorption and filtration is not necessary.

Determining all the relevant water body characteristics in a single site visit can be difficult. For guidance in determining the appropriate floodplain feature, see Figure 2-D. (The corresponding BMPs for each can be found in Table 2-B: Summary Characteristics of Floodplain Features and the

Corresponding BMPs, on page 18.) These water types are:

• Tributaries that originate in uplands and flow across floodplain: These usually well-defined channels with sandy substrate originate in the uplands and flow across the floodplain to the main river in continuous channel features.

• Springs and Seeps: Water emerges from these features within the flood-plain and flows all or part of year in most years. Channel structure and substrate of springs are usually well defined and sandy, but those of seeps are less defined and mixed. If they flow all year long, treat them as perennial streams or otherwise as intermittent.

• Continuous side channels and Braided streams: These less distinct channels and banks flow intermittently and are connected to the main channel network at both ends. The channels often contain mixed substrates

(sand, organics, fine sediments). Treat each channel individually, depending upon whether the stream is perennial, intermittent or ephemeral. These unique streams require highly site-specific management planning and recommendations. In some cases, the potential for wind throw of trees left in the SMZ will dictate variances in the removal of the canopy cover. Seek the assistance of a qualified professional.

• Drainage channels: These less distinct channels begin on the floodplain and usually flow intermittently during periods of high water tables via a continuous linear drainage system to the main river. The channels often contain mixed substrates (sand, organics, fine sediments).

• Floodway and River bottom flats: Area of floodplain with significant water velocities during frequent overbank flows (flows less than the two-year low flow). Evidence of scour and debris movement can be found. The floodway is usually identified on FEMA floodplain maps. Smaller floodway or riparian areas in minor streams are also called river bottom flats.

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• Discontinuous side channels: Channel features that may or may not be connected, on at least one end, to medium or higher flow energy channels.

May have distinct or indistinct channel features, but the channel features disappear and reappear.

• Backwater paleo channels: Usually well-defined deep channel features that are remnants of earlier river and side channel configurations. Mixed channel substrates (sand, organics, fine sediments). Flow usually backs into these features from the main river. Organic debris is often found piled against the “wrong” side of obstructions.

• Backwater swamps. Backwater swamps are wetland areas formed in old overflow channels on the margins of floodplains at the base of the adjacent slopes. They feature wetland vegetation, hydric soils, and fine and organic substrates, but they may show evidence of scour and debris movement.

• Isolated depressions: Feature wetland vegetation, hydric soils, fine and organic substrates, no evidence of fluvial scour.

• Oxbows and Ponds: Ponded deep water (>2 feet deep), fine and organic substrates, no evidence of fluvial scour.

As a rule of thumb, if the following conditions exist, corresponding BMPs should be considered for all flooplain features. If the area has:

• perennial or intermittent water flows; establish SMZs.

• potential surface runoff inputs from adjacent lands (exception of flooding);

establish SMZs.

• steep, unstable, and/or well defined banks; protect banks by bank trees or undisturbed zone.

• wet or ponded depression areas; shade water by bank trees.

• prolonged flooding areas; treat as a wetland and apply wetland BMPs.

• surface water; do not spray any chemicals.

Note: All flow regimes described above are based on normal flow conditions.

Appropriate BMP adjustments should be required during excessively dry or wet conditions.

2.2.3 Headwater Areas

Headwaters include two types of conveyences: ephemeral areas and gullies. (Refer to

Figure 2-E, Headwater Decision-Making Tree on page 20 to determine conveyance type. See Table 2-C: Headwater Stream Types and the Hydrological and Biological

Characteristics, pg. 21.)

2.2.3.1 Ephemeral Areas

Ephemeral areas are depressions or swales (sometimes called drains, draws, or dry washes) that have no defined continuous channel, and that are well-connected to intermittent or perennial streams. Ephemeral areas are characterized by water tables that often rise to the surface during high water table months, and these areas produce surface flow for short periods during and following rainfall. Forest floors in ephemeral areas are intact, and hydrophytic vegetation may or may not be present. Aquatic insects are usually not present in these areas. Soils in these areas may quickly become saturated during rainy or thawing periods. Soils in ephemeral areas feature finer textures and higher organic contents than soils in adjacent uplands. Fluvial power is generally low, but there may be evidence of small debris jams of leaf litter and other small organic matter deposited after surface flows. These areas are usually not identified on USGS or NRCS maps.

Water from ephemeral areas may carry sediment and other contaminants directly into streams. Ephemeral Wetlands are a part of Ephemeral Areas, which exhibit partial or full wetland characteristics.

Section 2.0

Figure 2-E. Headwater Decision-Making Tree

Table 2-C. Headwater Stream Types and the Hydrological and Bioloical Characteristics.

Characteristics Perennial Intermittent Ephemeral Area Ephemeral Wetland Gully

Hydroperiod Year-round During the Short period Moist year-round, Immediately (>90% of wet season after a wet during the after a the time) rain event wet season rain event

Channel definition Well defined Somewhat defined Somewhat – Not defined Clear not defined

Sediment and Clearly Partially Minimum Minimum Clearly litter movement observable observable observable

Streambed scouring Evident Somewhat Not evident Not evident N/A evident

Water pools Present Transition Absent Mostly absent Absent

Stream shape Sinuous Less sinuous Mostly straight Not observable Straight

High water marks Present Transition Absent Transition Absent

USGS Solid or Dotted blue Concave Concave N/A topographic map dotted line or concave contour line contour line marker blue line contour line

Energy level High Medium Low Very Low High-Low

Erosion potential Low-Medium Low-Medium Medium-Low Non High

Vegetation Wetland plants Wetland and Mesic plants Wetland and mesic No vegetation in at edge or in mesic plants at around and plants in and an active gully a stream edge or in a stream in an area around an area

Aquatic insects Present Present Transition Transition Absent

Fish Present Transition Absent Absent Absent

Silvicultural activities should:

• Minimize soil disturbance, litter layer removal, and avoid high-intensity fire within ephemeral areas. These activities can increase the possibility of introducing pollutants to intermittent or perennial streams.

• Cover inadvertently exposed soils with logging debris, grass, or mulch.

• Minimize equipment trafficking within and around ephemeral areas. Should trafficking be justifiable due to site constraints, take precautions to minimize soil disturbance and litter layer removal. Placement of logging debris or logging mats in traffic areas may be appropriate. Debris, mats, and other soil protecting structures should not interfere with the natural flow of water.

• Avoid direct tie-in of turnouts and outfall of water bars/breaks to ephemeral areas.

Extra care should be taken where a skid trail crosses an ephemeral area.

• See Section 5.3, page 48, for herbicide application.

• See Section 6.3, page 52, for fertilizer application.

2.2.3.2 Gullies

Gullies are narrow ravines, often caused by past land cultivation. They are typically V- or U-shaped channels that may or may not have exposed soil surfaces within the channel. They carry water only during and immediately following rainstorms or thawing events. Dry wash, draw, swale, arroyo, and gulch are other common names for gullies. Old agricultural gullies often have mature trees growing within their banks. Gullies often occur in uplands, upper slopes of ephemeral areas, at relatively steep stream-sideslopes, or on exposed erodible soils. Gullies may or may not be directly connected to ephemeral areas, intermittent, or perennial streams. Because of their short hydroperiod, gullies do not generally provide suitable habitat for aquatic flora and fauna.

Gullies with a contributing area (catchment/watershed above the gully) larger than 0.2 acres and directly connected to ephemeral areas, intermittent or perennial streams may require special attention because they can be activated by forestry operations. For these types of gullies, the following BMPs are recommended, but soil, slope, and other topographic characteristics should be considered to address local conditions:

• Protect soil and litter layers within a gully and the banks during forestry operations1. Low impact operational methods should be used for harvesting and site preparation in and around a gully.

• Placement of logging debris and slash in a gully is recommended to provide hydraulic resistance to flow and thus promote sediment deposition2.

• Avoid high-intensity prescribed burning in a gully to protect decomposed litter layers from burning and minimize exposure of mineral soils.

• Minimize trafficking within and around gullies, especially within and adjacent to severely eroded areas.

• Avoid direct tie-in of turnouts and outfall of water bars/breaks to gullies.

• See Section 5.3, page 48 for herbicide application.

• See Section 6.3, page 52 for fertilizer application.

1 Leaving some trees and shrubs on the banks and inside of gullies may serve as a marker for subsequent harvesting, site preparation, planting, herbicide application, and other forestry operations.

2 Avoid creating an impoundment behind logging debris or slash placed in a gully.

2.2.4 Lakes, ponds, and other bodies of flowing water

Follow the BMPs recommended for perennial streams if they could potentially move sediments or other pollutants off site.

2.2.5 Protected Mountain Tops

Forestry activities on mountain tops above 2,200-ft. elevation with slopes greater than 25% including the reforestation requirement shall comply with

BMPs. (See Appendix Section 8.2.3.4 with map, page 63.)

2.2.6 Protected River Corridors

Forestry activities within the 100-ft. buffers along those rivers at a point and below where the flow is 400 cubic feet per second (cfs) shall comply with BMPs.

(See Appendix Section 8.2.3.3 with map, page 62.)

2.2.7 Sinkhole

A geologic feature, typically found in Karst geology, that might provide a direct connection between land surface and groundwater. Treat as perennial streams.

2.2.8 Water Supply Reservoir/Watershed

(See Appendix Section 8.2.3.1 with map, page 60.)

• For government-owned impoundments or intakes within a 100-square mile or larger watershed, forestry activities within a 150-ft. buffer adjacent to all reservoirs and 100-ft. buffer adjacent to all perennial streams within a seven-mile radius above intakes shall comply with BMPs.

• For government-owned impoundments or intakes within a watershed of less than 100-square miles, forestry activities within a 150-ft. buffer adja-cent to the reservoir, a 100-ft. buffer adjacent to perennial streams within a seven-mile radius, and a 50-ft. buffer adjacent to all perennial streams above the seven-mile radius shall comply with BMPs.

2.2.9 Wetlands

For regulatory purposes, wetlands are defined by the presence or absence of specific plant communities, hydric soils and hydrologic conditions. Because of the generally wet soil conditions associated with forested wetlands, these areas are sensitive to forestry activities. For instance, bottomland hardwood sites, Carolina bays, cypress domes, other swamps, and some pine savannas differ from upland forest types because their soils are wet most of the year.

They frequently are connected directly to a larger aquatic system, often have overbank flow from nearby stream flooding, and may accumulate sediments and nutrients from upstream erosion and runoff.

To properly manage forested wetlands: plan for regeneration; consider the areas beyond the actual harvest site; and remember that special harvesting techniques may be necessary to protect water quality. Any stream channels should be identified and the appropriate SMZs established. The BMPs that apply to any other forest type generally apply to forested wetlands. For more information on harvesting and site-preparing wetlands, refer to Section 4.7 page

42 and Section 5.2 page 46.

Benefits of Planning Forest managers, landowners, foresters, timber buyers, loggers, site preparation and reforestation contractors should clearly identify water bodies, Special Management

Areas and streamside management zones (SMZs) in the field to decide which BMPs apply, when and where to apply them, and to carefully design access roads, log decks, and stream crossings. They should supervise these operations to make sure BMPs are followed where necessary, so that water quality is not compromised.

Forest health issues such as fire management, integrated pest management, disease control and natural disasters may also require a qualified professional to prescribe appropriate actions.

The benefits of a well written plan and/or written contract include: better communications of expectations between the landowner and forestry professionals;

maximum return from the harvest; potential longer term productivity; better infrastructure; economic efficiency; minimal environmental impacts; compliance with federal, state and local laws; and avoidance of fines or penalties. For information regarding sample contracts and management planning, contact the Georgia Forestry

Commission. Planning for the protection of water quality makes good sense.

Notes:

Section 3.0 Road Location, Construction, Stream Crossings, Maintenance, Retirement

Access roads are an essential part of any forest management operation and provide access for other activities on forestland. With proper planning, location, construction, and maintenance techniques, well-constructed access roads allow for productive operations and cause minimal soil and water quality impacts. However, poorly located, poorly constructed, or poorly maintained access roads, especially at stream crossings, can result in sediment-laden streams, changing stream-flow patterns, degraded fish and aquatic organism habitats, and adversely affected aesthetics.

There are two types of access roads typically constructed in the state. In mountainous and hilly terrain, the broad-based dip road is used. In the flatwoods and along major flood plains, the crown and ditch road is commonly used.

3.1 BMPs FOR ROAD LOCATION

• Identify federal, state and local laws, regulations or ordinances that apply to road purpose, construction, and maintenance prior to construction and op-eration. Include needed considerations and measures to meet requirements.

• Use soil surveys and topographic maps to identify soils, stream locations and other natural features (rocky areas, steep slopes, wet areas, etc.) on the property that might pose problems.

• Locate potential control points, i.e. log decks and stream crossings on topographic maps prior to designing access roads in the field.

• New permanent access roads should follow the contour as much as possible with grades ideally kept below 10%. An engineer’s divider can be used to lay out roads with the desired grade on a topographic map. Grades can run up to 12% for short distances. If soil is highly erosive, reduce grades. Plan to install water control structures.

• Temporary access roads should follow the contour as much as possible. Grades can run up to 25% for short distances provided that water control structures are properly installed.

• Except for planned stream crossings, locate new roads outside of SMZs.

• Minimize stream crossings. Where crossings are necessary, see Section 3.3, page 30.

• Minimize the number, length, and width of access roads.

• Locate new access roads on high ground, preferably on the sides of ridges, for proper surface drainage.

• Locate new access roads on southern or western sides (aspect) of ridges if possible, to expose the roadbed to more sunlight.

• Conduct site reconnaissance to verify road layout with potential soil problems, stream locations, sensitive areas (see Section 7.4, page 57), and watershed conditions.

• Evaluate the condition of existing roads and potential water quality impacts. If necessary, plan for improvements or replace with new routes.

3.2 BMPs FOR ROAD CONSTRUCTION

• Construct access roads only wide enough (usually 12-16 feet) to safely handle equipment that will use the road.

• Schedule construction during favorable weather.

• Maximize sunlight exposure along roadsides where surface drainage is a problem.

• On permanent access roads with three percent or more grade, broad-based dips should be installed at proper intervals; at 30-degree angles across road surfaces; have reverse grades of three percent; and the bottom of the dips should be outsloped about three percent. If necessary, outfall of dips may need sediment barriers such as rock, hay bales, or silt fence installed.

(See Figure 3-A for a schematic of a broad-based dip road and Table 3-A, page 28 for recommended spacing of dips.)

• On temporary access or spur roads that have little traffic at low speeds, rolling dips can be installed. They resemble “stretched out” water bars.

See Figure 3-B, page 28 and Table 3-A, page 28 for spacing.

Figure 3-A: Recommended Spacing for Broad Based Dips in Permanent Access Roads and Rolling Dips in Temporary Access Roads

Spacing: See Table 3-A

• On crown and ditched roads, install water turnouts at proper intervals. See

Figure 3-C and Table 3-B. Turnouts should never tie directly into streams or water bodies. If necessary, outfall of turnouts may need sediment barriers such as rock, hay bales, or silt fence installed.

Road Grade Distance Between (percent) Dips and Turnouts (feet)

3 235 4 200 5 180 6 165 7 155 8 150 9 145 10 140 12 135

Table 3-A:

Recommended spacing for Broad-based Dips in Permanent Access Roads and rolling Dips in Temporary Access Roads

Figure 3-B:

Rolling Dip

Figure 3-C: Design and Installation of Turnouts

Table 3-B: Spacing of Turnouts

Source: Cooperative Extension Service Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Oklahoma State University.

Source: Cooperative Extension Service Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Oklahoma State University.

Road Grade Spacing (percent) (feet)

2 – 5 500-300 6 – 10 300-200 11 – 15 200-100 16 – 20 100

Section 3.0 Road Location, Construction, Stream Crossings, Maintenance, Retirement

• Keep roads free from obstructions and logging debris.

• Roadbeds on erosive soils should be stabilized with appropriate measures.

• Stabilize exposed soil on shoulders of permanent or temporary access roads located within SMZs, wetlands or at stream crossings as soon as possible with any one or combination of the following: seed and mulch; silt fence; hay bales; excelsior blankets; geotextiles.

1. See Section 6.4, page 53 for grassing recommendations.

2. Type A (36 inch) or Type B (22 inch) silt fence can be used. Wooden stakes should be fastened to the fence every six feet on the down slope side. The bottom edge of the fence should be installed in a four-inch deep trench with the bottom two inches of the fence facing upslope in the trench. See Figure 3-D.

3. Hay bales should be placed on sides in four-inch deep trenches and staked down. See Figure 3-E.

Source: Bureau of Forestry, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Source: Bureau of Forestry, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Figure 3-D: Silt Fence Installation

Figure 3-E: Installation of Hay Bales

• For more information refer to Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission’s

Field Manual for Erosion and Sediment Control in Georgia.

3.2.1 Practices to Avoid during Road Construction

• Road construction inside the SMZ, except at planned stream crossings.

• Insloping of roads. Where unavoidable, use cross-drain culverts positioned under the road at a 30 degree angle and spacing as in Table 3-B, page 28 for proper inside road drainage. Place riprap at culvert outfall to prevent washing. See

Figure 3-F.

• Using ditches on steep roads. Some ditches may have to be lined with rock to prevent gullying and sedimentation.

• Turnouts tied directly into perennial and intermittent streams or ephemeral areas.

3.3 STREAM CROSSINGS FOR ROADS

Stream crossings are often necessary for access to forestlands. From a water quality standpoint, stream crossings are the most critical aspect of the road system. Failure of a stream crossing, due to improper planning or construction, can result in erosion and introduction of sediment into a stream, adversely affecting water quality.

Where crossings are necessary, planning should address the type of road and road-use pattern, stream channel characteristics, stream flow levels and the aquatic organisms in the stream. Minimizing impacts is critical. Permanent and

Figure 3-F: Cross-drain Culvery Design and Installation

Source: Georgia Forestry Commission Source: Bureau of Forestry, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Section 3.0…