Attachment_3_Appendix_E_Facility_Excellence_pLAN.pdf

5.1Introduction

In the year 2000 the Air Force was established as the Host of the Buckley installation. With this honor came the challenge of developing many new facilities and improvements to the Base, including the development of a Base Landscape Plan worthy of Buckley’s new status.

The natural landscape at Buckley is sparse short prairie grass with a few trees in low-lying drainage areas, typical of an arid Colorado high prairie.

The Landscape Design philosophy at Buckley AFB is NOT to create a lush oasis in the midst of an arid prairie, but rather to control the extensive areas of erosion and establish a visually appealing landscape at selected high-traffic streetscapes and prominent focal areas.

This Facilities Excellence Plan intends to create a unified landscape representing a refined Colorado High Prairie theme. Consistent use of the Approved Plant and Seed

Tables in this chapter will gradually contribute to this desired theme.

Recognizing that irrigation water supply and landscape maintenance expenses are becoming more limited and more costly each year, this Facilities Excellence Plan intends to establish guidelines that will result in an The landscaping along the North

Asp en

Corr idor at the

Mai n

Entr anc e is appropriate level of landscape appearance throughout the an example of Tier 1

Premium Xeric

Base while emphasizing maximum water conservation landscaping.

This level of landscaping is cost prohibitive at Buckley AFB.

measures. The key elements to achieving this goal are: Future landscaping will follow a less intensive Colorado High Prairie theme.

• ZONING: Identify 4 Tiers of landscape intensity reflecting 4 levels of prominence, pedestrian use, and desired visual impact throughout the Base. (See Landscape Zone Map).

• PLANT SELECTION: Identify low-water plant species that are best suited to the climate and soils prevalent at Buckley AFB. (See Plant Selection Tables).

• PLANTING PRACTICES: Specify best Xeric principals and practices for soil preparation, planting, and maintenance to ensure optimum sustainable growth, erosion control, and maximum water conservation. (See Best Management Practices).

• LANDSCAPE PLANNING: Emphasize that landscape planning, budgeting, design, and execution are a mandatory requirement for all facilities constructed at Buckley AFB. Minimum budget for landscaping, irrigation, erosion control and first year maintenance must be no less than 1% of the total programmed budget for the facility. Minimum budget for landscaping, irrigation, erosion control and first year maintenance must be no less than 1% of the total programmed budget for the facility.

5.1.1Mandatory Landscape Policy

Landscape Planning is an essential and mandatory element of every facility or improvement built at Buckley

AFB. Base facilities encompass a wide variety of sizes, site conditions, budgets, locations, and functions.

Therefore, the Base has not mandated a certain percentage of programmed construction cost for landscaping.

However, recent examples of landscaping being entirely deleted from construction projects due to budget shortfalls have forced the Base to reiterate and enforce the policy of Mandatory Landscaping. Air Force Space

Command and Buckley AFB policy requires that all units, agencies, and tenants in charge of programming and funding facilities at Buckley AFB must install landscaping, plant materials, site amenities, and execute a 1-year

Landscape Maintenance agreement in accordance with this FEP before accepting a facility for Beneficial

Occupancy.

• All construction projects involving new, improved, replaced, renovated, expanded, altered, or demolished facilities must include a plan and a budget for landscaping before the Facilities Board will approve the project.

• The Landscape Plan must be prepared by a registered Landscape Architect or a recognized professional landscape installation and maintenance contractor with proven experience in local climate and soils conditions.

• The specific Landscape Design, the degree of formality, the plant materials, and the

2-ye ars after completion of Bldg 830 the site still plant intensity depends on the function and remains without one blade of grass or one inch visibility of the facility and the location of landscaping, irrigation, or erosion control. No facility at Buckley AFB may be accepted for identified in the Landscape Zone Map. Beneficial Occupancy until landscaping has been installed and under 1-year maintenance contract.

• The Landscape Plan must encompass all areas within the limits of construction and all disturbed areas including, entry walks, sidewalks, plazas, patios, pavilions, courtyards, parking islands, parking perimeters, drainage swales, detention basins, and adjacent roadways.

• Irrigation systems, valves, and controls installed to support mandatory landscaping must be connected to the facility water meter, power panel, and must be compatible with the facility Energy Monitor & Control System (EMCS).

Mandatory Regulatory Requirements: Minimum regulatory landscaping requirements at Buckley AFB are mandated by federal, state, and local agencies for the purpose of controlling erosion and reducing negative impacts on water quality (See: Best Management Practices).

Mandatory Aesthetic Requirements: Minimum aesthetic landscape requirements at Buckley AFB are described in the Approved Plant List, the Landscape Zone Maps, and the Concept Landscaping Illustrations within this Chapter.

5.2Climate Factors

Buckley AFB occupies 3,300 acres of semi-arid high plains prairie at an elevation of 5,663 feet above sea level. The annual precipitation is 15-inches, with approximately 13.2inches occurring during the typical growing season. Half of this precipitation is lost to surface runoff and evaporation before it can be absorbed into the ground and contribute to plant growth. Arctic air masses can cause temperatures to drop dramatically within a matter of hours.

Temperatures vary from 10-degrees below zero with Chinook winds in the winter to 100-degrees with intense high-altitude sunlight in the summer. Due to the lack of naturally occurring trees, the Base is exposed to high winds from most directions throughout the year, making wind desiccation a major factor. All of these factors combine to make it difficult for non-indigenous plant materials to establish, grow, and mature. For these reasons, the use of Xeric plant materials and Xeric landscaping principals are essential for successful landscape design at Buckley AFB. (See: Xeric Principals and Best Management

Practices).

All new facilities and additions at Buckley AFB must include a landscape budget equal to 1% of the total programmed project budget, including landscaping, irrigation, erosion control, and a 1-year maintenance contract.

The main entrance to the new $35-million Army Air Support Facility exhibits the minimum approved landscaping materials allowed by

Buckley AFB standards.

View of Rocky Mountains from Buckley AFB. Buckley enjoys an enviable semi-arid High Prairie climate that is very attractive to people, but not conducive to lush landscaping.

$8.00/thousand gallons !

In July 2007 the City of Aurora more than doubled the domestic water rate from $3.80/thousand gallons to

$8.00/thousand gallons. The urgency to reduce domestic water use and irrigation at Buckley AFB has reached a critical point. Unlike petroleum and hydrocarbon products, there is no alternative substitute for water. We can not simply increase production. Colorado law prohibits the practice of retaining water run-off in ponds, As the impermeable area of the Base increases, more stormwater detention lakes, or cisterns for future use. Water is a finite resource.

structures must be built. This outlet

Serious water conservation measures are the only option structure at the new Industrial Valley Pond detains stormwater from a 400-at Buckley AFB. acre area currently under rapid development.

5.2.1Self Sustaining Landscape

Currently many areas of the Base suffer from bare, wind-swept areas of exposed soil causing excessive storm water erosion and sediment build-up. As the cost of water, maintenance, and irrigation systems increases annually, the Base has establish a goal of planting Self-Sustaining grasses and ground cover throughout the developed areas of the Base within 5 years. Self-Sustaining is defined as native low-water grasses and groundcovers that are capable of establishing growth within 1-year and require no supplemental water in the future. (See: Seed Grass Plant List and Best Management Practices). The urgency to reduce irrigation and achieve a Self-Sustaining landscape is described below:

• Every inch of supplemental water applied to irrigate landscaped lawns and open space is equivalent to

0.75 gallons per square foot per year, or 32,670 gallons per acre.

• Buckley AFB uses potable water for fire, irrigation, and domestic use. Although Buckley has access to an off-base watering tap for reclaimed water, the cost of trucking water is prohibitive, and the cost of building a separate reclaimed water distribution system is even greater.

• At $3.85 per thousand gallons ($8.00/thousand in July 2007 !) Buckley paid $126 to supplement just 1-inch of water per acre.

• Even with reduced watering schedules in recent years, Buckley uses 30-million gallons of water for irrigation annually, at a cost of $115,500 per year. ($250,000 projected for FY08).

• As a brand new undeveloped Air Force Base, much of the landscaping and irrigation efforts to date have been devoted simply to mitigate existing degraded erosion and storm water runoff conditions. These efforts will continue to take a higher priority over decorative aesthetic landscaping.

• The rapid and wide-spread development of the Base has created ever-increasing areas in need of restoration and re-vegetation of disturbed areas due to construction and utility excavation activity.

• • The Air Force has established a goal of reducing supplemental irrigation water consumption by 50% over the next 5 years, using 2006 consumption as a baseline. Unlike more mature Bases with a stable established baseline, Buckley AFB is currently at the peak of development and will not reach a realistic measurable baseline until the year 2010.

• Buckley AFB intends to pursue an aggressive low-water landscaping policy and become a recognized leader in water conservation practices.

Rockscape at AASF Building is a good example of well-designed low-maintenance erosion control.

Tier 1 Premium Xeric berms, lawns, and ornamental grasses should be limited to high-visibility facility entry areas.

Tier 2 Moderate Xeric shrubs and rockscapes are considered the minimum acceptable level of landscaping at Buckley AFB facilities.

Tier 2 Moderate

Xeric

Steetscapes must be durable enough to withstand damage from snow plowing.

Tier 2 Moderate Xeric shrubs and rockscapes are appropriate for the perimeter of patios and pavilions.

Tier 3 Rockscapes require deep, moisture-retaining mulch beds to support non-irrigated planting.

Tier 4 un-maintained prairie grasses are predominant throughout the East Base

Industrial Area and Toll

Gate Creek Open Space.

Concrete planters and permeable pavers are approved landscape features (See: 5.8.24 -

Breckenridge Distinguished

Visitors Route).

Tier 3 Self-Sustaining non-irrigated tallgrass and

Buffalo Grass is the preferred standard for erosion control throughout the undeveloped areas of

Buckley.

Locations prone to persistent ponding may be improved with decorative detention features.

The minimum acceptable level of landscaping at Buckley

AFB facilities: Irrigated Xeric shrubs placed in well-drained rockscapes (not bare dirt).

Granite rock and river rock is approved for rock beds. Volcanic rock and lava rock is not approved.

The scarcity and cost of water and maintenance services requires Buckley AFB to curtail further development of Tier 1 Premium landscape features such as this Aspen Street Main Entrance streetscape.

Berms are desirable landscape features, but they are especially subject to erosion if slopes exceed

4:1.

Scenic pathways such as this are only practical along wetland areas such as the proposed

Williams Lake Nature Trail and the Toll Gate

Creek Nature Walk (See: Section 4.4.1)

5.2.2 Low-Water Grasses

The Low-Water Table below indicates several types of grasses and the relative water use of each. The total supplemental water shown for each type of grass is critical to understanding the need for Self-Sustaining native grasses for lawns and open areas throughout the Base. In addition to their erosion control benefits, Self-Sustaining grasses will create an affordable aesthetic design theme that demonstrates Buckley’s responsible use of water and reflects the local climate. Premium fescue lawns and turf grasses should be reserved for only the most prominent facilities and high-visibility focal points on the Base. (See: Landscape Zone Map)

The Low-Water Table illustrates that even the most water-efficient native prairie grass seed mixes require more moisture than is typically available from average precipitation at Buckley AFB. Proper establishment practices and use of mulches and soil improvements can reduce evaporation, hold more moisture, reduce run-off, allow deeper water penetration, and improve the water holding capacity of the soil. Therefore, following Best

Management Practices, the recommended Prairie Grasses could be considered Self-Sustaining without irrigation, after proper establishment. All other seed mixes, lawns, turfs, sod, and plant materials must be used sparingly and will require a well-engineered irrigation system.

5.2.3 Native Vegetation

The area that Buckley AFB now occupies was historically prairie habitat with open, flat, or rolling terrain and intersecting creek systems. Vegetation surveys conducted in 2001 divided Buckley vegetation into 6 types:

• Mixed grass blue gramma and western wheatgrass.

• Crested wheatgrass prairie.

• Bottomland meadows.

• Cottonwood and willows.

• Weedy disturbed areas.

• Landscaped areas.

Grassland prairie is the dominant vegetation on 759 acres

(23%) of the Base. These native grassland prairies are dominated by blue gramma and western wheatgrass, interspersed with three-awn, buffalo grass, scarlet globe mallow, prickly pear, and snakeweed.

Intermittent streams meander through portions of the Base, flowing into East TollGate Creek to the Southwest and Sand

Creek to the Northeast. Riparian vegetation is dominant along these creek corridors on 111 acres (3%) of the Base. The dominant species along the wide, flat bottomland meadows is fringed brome grass. The steeper riparian areas are dominated by cottonwood, willows, coyote willow, snowberry, peachleaf willow, and plains cottonwood.

Upland areas adjacent to the riparian and bottomland meadows consist of a mix of xeric shrubs, yucca, and rabbit brush. Naturally occurring Xeric shrubs account for only 9 acres (less than 1%) of the Base.

Non-native Crested wheatgrass is the dominant vegetation on

1,737 acres (53%) of the Base, covering nearly all of the open space at Buckley. Exotic weedy species are very common in the open space, resulting in the spread of noxious weeds throughout the entire developed and disturbed areas of the installation. Areas disturbed by construction and development tend to be quickly invaded by fringed sagewort, cheatgrass, field bindweed, Canada thistle, Russian thistle, Dalmation toadflax, and leafy spurge.

The Grass Mixes specified in this FEP were chosen for their ability to establish quickly, control erosion, resist the spread of noxious weeds, and become Self-Sustaining without supplemental irrigation. (See: Approved Plant List and Best

Management Practices).

Riparian Area along East Toll Gate Creek.

5.2.4 Tree City USA

Buckley AFB is honored to be designated a Tree City USA since 2004. The rapidly growing Base is being landscaped with many varieties of trees to create a formal campus-like appearance at prominent and high-visibility locations. The most noticeable improvements can be seen along the North Aspen Corridor, the

West Steamboat Steetscape, the new Privatized Housing Community, the new Chapel Center, and the new

Wing Headquarters. Buckley has recently revised the Approved Plant List to reflect recent experience with species that are best suited to Buckley’s climate and soils.

Buckley’s participation in the Tree City USA program is very aggressive, as can be seen by the stringent specifications for appropriate tree species, minimum tree size, and mandatory planting and maintenance practices listed in this Facilities

Excellence Plan and the Buckley Landscape Design

Guidelines. (See: Section 5.4 – Design Guidelines). Trees add to the quality of life at Buckley by providing environmental benefits such as shade and windbreaks. Trees are also considered a mandatory element of Facility Design in order to create visual appeal at entryways, sidewalks, courtyards, picnic areas, patio areas, and other feature areas where people congregate.

Every tree on Base has been surveyed, identified, located, and entered into a Geographical Information Mapping System

(GIS) along with management recommendations for the benefit of improving tree maintenance schedules and prioritizing tree removal and pruning requirements.

There are 4 standards required by the Arbor Day Foundation to become a Tree City USA:

• A Tree Board is designated to administer a comprehensive community tree management program for the care of all trees on Base.

• A Community Tree Ordinance is developed to determine tree care policies and make provisions for establishing and updating a list of tree species to be planted on Base. (See: Approved Plant List).

• A Community Forestry Program with an annual budget of $2 per capita must be established for tree planting and care.

• An annual Arbor Day Observance and Proclamation must be made. Buckley’s annual Arbor Day and Earth Day celebration includes children from the Base Child Development Center to assist with tree planting ceremonies.

Contact the Base Natural Resource Office (460 CES/CEVP) for a complete description of Buckley AFB Natural Resource programs, policies, and initiatives.

Buckley AFB celebrated its 3rd year as a designated Tree City USA in 2007. Fortunately, Base Planners had the foresight to plant over 2000 evergreen trees throughout the Base during the past 15 years.

5.3 Seven Xeriscape Principles

5.3.1 Planning and Design

As each new facility is planned, it is important to consider the traditional aspects of site design, topography, slope orientation, user needs, program elements, soils, vehicular and pedestrian circulation, access, and existing vegetation. The integration of Xeriscape principles with traditional site planning enables the designer to introduce water conservation methods throughout the design process. Special attention should be placed upon the microclimates created by the building and subsequent plant grouping and locations.

The tremendous and rapid development of Buckley AFB requires careful planning and coordination to anticipate the impact of future facilities on run-off volume and stormwater flow patterns.

5.3.2 Minimize Turf

Throughout the site design process, it is important to limit areas of high water use turf to areas of intensive use by people. Such areas include active recreation areas and areas highly visible by pedestrians (i.e. building main entrances).

Turf grasses should be used as a ground plane amenity and not just as infill material. High water use turf should not be used on slopes greater than 4:1, or in medians and narrow strips of planting that are less than 12’ wide, whether in a parking lot application, roadway median or setback area.

Adverse conditions prevent Buckley AFB from supporting lush lawns and fescue turf areas. The Base Standard for future ground cover is Prairie Shortgrass and Buffalo Grass (See: Section 5.7 - Approved Seed Mixes)

5.3.3 Irrigation

Irrigation systems should be zoned so those plant materials with similar water demands are on the same irrigation zone (i.e. high water use turf separated from shrubs and ornamental grasses). Professionally designed and drawn irrigation plans should be an integral part of each new building or landscape plan. The plans should specifically address application methods, natural precipitation, and application rates for the individual zones. Plans also need to indicate tap locations, controller type, type and size of heads, drip methods, type and size of mainline, laterals, water pressure, and meter locations. Hand irrigation by water truck is permitted at Buckley AFB only to establish self-sustaining prairie grasses and Buffalo grass for one year, and only in areas that do not have access to an existing water line.

5.3.4 Plant Material

Plant selection and location are critical components of the xeriscape principles. Plants should be placed together in groupings of plants that require similar amounts of water. Within the plant palette there are plants that are more appropriate for more formal applications than others. The low water use plants tend to have a more informal appearance and arrangement than higher water use plants. An additional issue with regard to plant selection is the stand-off distances from buildings and other related force protection requirements. The force protection guidelines need to be followed. The plant material should be placed in masses rather than sporadically placed for maximum visual impact. In addition, maintenance is easier and quicker around one massed shrub bed, rather than around many plants scattered in turf areas.

5.3.5 Mulches

Organic mulches act to cool the soil during hot weather, thereby reducing the evaporation and subsequent water use. Mulches also reduce the growth of weeds and buffer soil temperature fluctuations throughout the year.

Inorganic mulches are very beneficial and have excellent applications for specific purposes. When rock mulches are used, it is beneficial to use a variety of sizes and integrate larger boulders into the design palette to provide greater visual interest. Grouping the larger rocks together to create, for example, dry streambeds, is an effective technique. Large expanses of rock mulch by themselves are not good examples of xeriscape principles, because they create hot, hostile, and uninviting spaces. Volcanic rock will not be allowed to be used as a bed mulch.

The trees and shrubs should be placed in mulched areas rather than in turf areas so that irrigation can be zoned separately. This arrangement also facilitates easier maintenance activities. An alternative to the vast expanses of rock mulch includes dry-land grass areas that receive periodic watering and mowing. Transitions from the intensive landscape to these remote areas can be created by shrub and tree masses and mowing patterns.

Organic Mulch

Approved organic tree-bark mulch.

Reclaimed recycled shredded rubber mulch is approved at Buckley AFB. Natural tree-bark mulch tends to fade and deteriorate with Colorado's high UV exposure.

Recycled rubber mulch tree ring. Cost-Benefit estimates vary widely between vendors and maintenance contractors.

Recycled shredded rubber tree rings are approved as a substitute for conventional tree-bark mulch.

5.3.6 Soil Evaluation and Improvements

The soils on Buckley Air Force Base are typically clay with fine sand or sand with silt or clay. Some soils are susceptible to collapse, and expansive soils are occasionally encountered.

Although you cannot turn clay soils into ideal planting soils, you can improve them by a variety of methods that will cause the soil particles to form small granules and crumbs. The best treatment for this purpose is to incorporate large amounts of organic matter into the soil to improve soil structure. The improved condition may remain even long after the organic matter has disappeared.

Aged one-year-old dairy manures, green plant material, compost and leaf mold are especially good for improving soil condition. Materials that decay very slowly, such as peat moss, straw, sawdust, rice hulls and shredded bark are somewhat less desirable because they do not aggregate the soil as well. These organic materials, when first incorporated into the soil, will compete with plants for the available nitrogen, an important plant nutrient. Apply extra nitrogen to the soil when using these materials, especially if you intend to plant immediately after adding the organic matter.

The slowly decaying materials, such as sawdust and bark, do not necessarily improve soil structure immediately.

They serve mainly as fillers to increase the percentage of large pores and to improve soil permeability, or drainage. Large quantities of these materials are generally required to have value as fillers; as much as one-half, by volume of soil, could be needed for the treatment.

Gypsum is often recommended to improve clay soils. However, this amendment is primarily useful for improving sodic (alkali) soils, which often have poor structure. Gypsum will not improve a clay soil unless the soil also happens to be sodic.

Adding sludge from the waste water treatment facility has proven to be an effective soil amendment.

5.3.7 Maintenance Practices

Sound maintenance practices include regular watering, fertilizer applications, pesticide management, and sound horticultural principles. With the integration of xeriscape principles it will become more important to ensure that properly scheduled maintenance practices occur. The mowing height and mowing schedule will impact the growth, health, and appearance of the different types of grasses. For optimal root growth and drought resistance, turf grasses should be mowed at a 2 1/2” – 3” minimum.

Native grass areas do not need to be mowed and in actual fact, perform and establish better if left in an unmowed condition. Mowing at a turf height exposes the crown of sensitive native grasses to direct sunlight, resulting in sunscald. If a more manicured look is necessary, management practices should be adjusted to include a 6” to 8” mowing height. Sunscald is minimized and still allows the reestablishment of the prairie. Mowing every

6 to 8 weeks during the establishment period, however, can facilitate weed control. Establishment watering is also recommended.

Regular aeration and mulching of clippings reduces soil compaction, improves aeration, controls excess thatch, increases water infiltration, encourages root growth and further improves drought resistance of turf areas. Soil improvements, annual applications of organic matter and using organic mulches in the shrub beds will increase the water-holding capacity of the soil in those areas.

Initially, as areas are renovated and retrofitted from turf areas to shrub areas, maintenance personnel will need to become familiar with the different maintenance requirements for the new areas. This initially may result in higher maintenance costs. The time to mow, aerate, and fertilize turf areas is greater than the time required to weed, replace mulch, fertilize and clean up shrub areas.

Non-irrigated self-sustaining grasses are the preferred ground cover for all disturbed, eroded, or degraded areas at Buckley AFB. Buffalo grass and Prairie Shortgrass should be left un-mowed.

5.4 Design Guidelines

Buckley AFB has established 4 Tiers of landscape treatment (See: Base Landscape Zone Map) designed to create a refined ‘Colorado High Prairie’ landscape theme throughout the Base.

• Tier 1 – Premium Landscape & Feature Areas

• Tier 2 – Moderate Landscape & Secondary Streetscapes

• Tier 3 – Self-Sustaining Non-Irrigated Prairie Grasses

• Tier 4 – Undisturbed Prairie & Open Spaces

Each Tier or Zone recommends varying degrees of density, water use, plant species, and landscape intensity, depending on the location, prominence, visibility, and function of the area. This FEP strives to enhance the visual appearance of major roadways, streetscapes, open areas, and facility grounds using materials and practices that reflect the severe shortage of water and maintenance funds available to the Base. Each Zone incorporates plant materials selected from the Buckley Plant List for low-water requirements, adaptability to high plains conditions, and pleasing aesthetic form.

The predominant landscape theme within the developed area of the Base is clusters of Evergreen pine trees located at building entryways, patios, picnic areas, streetscapes, and, major roadway intersections. Most of these Evergreens are quite mature and healthy, some standing over 40-feet tall. Evergreen pine trees are an established design precedent at Buckley AFB, and they are an appropriate landscape feature for a Base with majestic panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. Evergreen pine trees selected from the approved Plant List are recommended as part of good site design around all facilities, especially entry features.

This Facilities Excellence Plan offers considerable latitude and design freedom to the landscape designer.

Landscaping should be designed with sufficient variety to provide year-round color and visual interest.

• Plant materials shall be selected from the Buckley Approved Plant List.

• Plant materials shall be obtained from reputable local sources and be acclimated to local climate conditions prior to planting.

• Plant materials shall meet or exceed the minimum standards of the Colorado Nursery Act,

• Deciduous Shade Trees shall be minimum 3-1/2” caliper.

• Deciduous Ornamental Trees shall be minimum 2-1/2” caliper.

• Evergreen Trees shall be minimum 8’-0” height.

• Deciduous Shrubs shall be minimum 5-gallon container, B&B preferred.

• Ornamental Grasses shall be minimum 1-gallon container, 5-gallon preferred.

• Seed grasses shall be applied at a minimum of 25-pounds per acre.

The landscape sketches included in this Chapter offer suggestions that illustrate typical applications for each of the 4 Tier Levels.

5.4.1Tier 1: Premium Landscape

Buckley AFB Goal: Reduce water irrigation 50% by FY 2015 (5% per year).

The Premium Zone includes the most visible and prominent areas along the North Aspen Street Corridor, Steamboat Avenue, and streetscapes within the Community Center along A-Basin Avenue and athletic fields.

Small pockets of Tier 1 Premium landscaping are recommended for picnic parks, static displays, Entry Gate roadways, and other high priority facilities. Tier 1 Premium landscaping is characterized by:

• Dense clusters of ornamental grasses.

• Limited use of blue fescue turf grass and sod grass.

• Built-up berms with seeded short-grass prairie mix and shrub borders.

• Meandering pedestrian walkways with adjacent shrubs and plant beds.

• Generous use of Evergreen pine trees.

• Staggered placement of deciduous shade trees.

• Use of sod grass for athletic fields.

5.4.2Tier 2: Moderate Landscape

The areas identified for Moderate Landscape treatment include the

South Aspen Corridor, the Telluride Loop, and some high visibility streetscapes and facilities within the Industrial Area. Tier 2

Moderate landscaping is characterized by:

• Evergreen pine trees and ornamental grasses at building entries and strategic focal locations.

• Short-grass prairie grass; fescue sod and seed grasses are prohibited.

• Limited use of deciduous shade trees.

• Limited use of built-up berms.

Tier

Mod erat e land scap ing incl ude s ornamental grasses and Xeric plant beds at focal areas. Recycled rubber mulch is recommended for long-term durability and excellent water-retention characteristics.

5.4.3 Tier 3: Self-Sustainable Landscape

Tier 3 Self-Sustainable Landscape areas are generally located in less populated areas of the Base where erosion control is more important than visual interest. Facilities located in the Tier 3 Zone are encouraged to plant small areas of Premium landscaping at primary entrances where irrigation water is available. However the majority of Tier 3 land area will be a seeded with a variety of non-irrigated Prairie Grasses following Best

Management Practices for erosion control. Sustainable Landscape areas are characterized by:

• Short-grass Prairie mix adjacent to maintained streets and buildings.

• Tall-grass Prairie mix at remote un-mowed or un-maintained areas.

• Well designed ‘rockscape’ beds with clusters of granite boulders.

• Limited areas of ornamental grasses, trees, and shrubs at entryways and patios, with well designed mulch beds, and meandering river rock borders.

• Wetland and Overflow grasses at detention basins and storm flow areas.

5.4.4 Tier 4: Undisturbed Prairie & Open Space

All other areas of the Base will be left in their natural non-irrigated and undisturbed state.

This includes the vast majority of the East

Base, the Toll Gate Creek wetlands, the storm drainage flow areas, and the Open

Area buffer zones around the perimeter of the Base. Mowing is generally prohibited, except within the boundaries of the Primary

Airfield.

Tier 4 Self-Sustaining non-irrigated tallgrass and Buffalo Grass is the preferred standard for erosion control throughout the developed areas of Buckley.

Tier 4 un-maintained prairie grasses are predominant throughout the East Base

Industrial Area and Toll Gate Creek Open

Space.

5.5 Best Management Practices for Self-Sustaining Grasses

The primary goals of landscaping at Buckley AFB are:

• Improve erosion control and protection of watersheds from excess sediment.

• Prevent soil loss due to storm water runoff and wind erosion.

• Achieve maximum water conservation by establishing Self-Sustaining non-irrigated turf grasses wherever possible.

• Prevent the intrusion of noxious weeds and pests through careful selection of plant materials.

• Improve the aesthetics and visual appeal of streetscapes and facilities with creative and responsible landscape design.

The single most effective and most visible improvement to achieve all of these goals will be an aggressive effort to re-vegetate and restore all disturbed and eroded areas within the developed area of the Base with

Self-Sustaining non-irrigated prairie grasses. The Best Management Practices specified in this Section are mandatory practices enforced by Federal, State, and Local regulations.

Landscape designers and planners must incorporate Self-Sustaining non-irrigated prairie seed grasses selected from the Approved Plant List for large area turf and lawn projects. These grass mixes were designed to yield tremendous long-range benefits with a short life-cycle payback. All of the best planning and landscape design is futile if these Best Management Practices are not strictly followed.

5.5.1 - Permits & Forms Prior to performing landscaping work at Buckley AFB the contractor shall:

• Obtain authorization and signatures on a Base Civil Engineering Work Clearance Request (AF 103).

From civil engineer customer service desk.

• Obtain a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Permit from base environmental.

• Submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) to the US Environmental Protection Agency.

5.5.2 Compost

• Existing topsoil shall be removed during excavation for new construction and stockpiled at the direction of the Project Manager. The Project Manager shall evaluate the topsoil to determine if it is suitable for reapplication after seeding.

• A soil analysis shall be performed to identify any additional soil amendments that may be required.

• Organic soil amendments (compost) shall be uniformly applied over the entire landscaped area at a minimum depth of 2 inches and incorporated to a depth of 8 inches (for a 20% to 30% inclusion rate) using a rotary tiller.

• Compost shall meet or exceed US EPA Class A standard, 40 CFR Section 503. Certificates of Compliance for Compost shall be submitted indicating grade and compliance with state and local regulations.

• Pre-planting fertilizer and pH adjusting agents (e.g., lime and sulfur) may be applied before incorporation as necessary.

• Rake the soil surface smooth prior to seeding. The soil surface shall be free of large clods, roots, stones greater than 2-inches, and other material which might interfere with planting and subsequent site maintenance.

• Water thoroughly after seeding. Topdress newly seeded turf areas with ¼-inch layer of fine compost (3/8-inch screen, minus), then water to protect against hot, dry weather or drying winds.

• Where an irrigation system is unavailable, water shall be provided by the Contractor and hand applied by truck.

• The Contractor may request permission from the Base to fill water trucks from a Base fire hydrant or from the off-Base reclaimed water station. In either case water usage will be metered and billed to the Contractor.

5.5.3 Seeding

• Seed mix shall be specified by the Project Manager from the Buckley Approved Plant List published in the Facilities Excellence Plan (Short-grass Prairie Mix; Overflow Seed Mix; Tall-grass Prairie Mix; or Wetland Seed Mix).

• All seeding shall be accomplished using a drill seeded using a mechanical power drawn drill followed by packer wheels or drag chain.

• Use a drill seeder capable of handling native seed. Mechanical power-drawn drills shall have depth bands set to maintain a planting depth of at least 0.5-inches into the soil and shall be set to space the rows not more than seven (7) inches apart. Seed that is extremely small shall be sowed from a separate hopper adjusted to the proper rate of application.

• On slopes greater than 4:1 the contractor shall broadcast seed on freshly disturbed (raked or harrowed) soil surfaces. Following broadcast seeding the contractor shall immediately rake or harrow the seeds into the surface. Raking shall be accomplished using metal-tined garden or landscape rakes. If harrowing is used, an English harrow or its equivalent shall be used. Seed must be uniformly distributed in the broadcasting device, and seed must be evenly distributed throughout the limits of the project.

• Cover the applied seed with a soil thickness no greater than 0.5 inches deep.

• Add a ‘Nurse Crop’ seed such as oats or rye to all seed mixes. These germinate quickly, reduce soil erosion, provide quick green cover, save soil moisture, and discourage weed growth by shading the soil surface until the grass seed has proper conditions to germinate and provide cover.

5.5.4 Hydro Seeding / Hydro Mulching Prohibited

Hydraulic seeding or hydraulic mulching is not permitted. The practice of applying grass seed to the surface of the soil along with a slurry of water and cellulose mulch has proven to have a poor performance record at Buckley AFB.

5.5.5 Planting Season

• Seeding shall be restricted according to the following timetable and specifications:

• Spring seeding is allowed from Spring thaw to May 15 th

, where “spring thaw” is defined as the earliest date in which seed can be buried 0.5-inches into the surface topsoil through normal drill seeding methods.

• Fall seeding is allowed from September 15 th until consistent ground freeze, where “consistent ground freeze” is defined as that date on which frozen surface topsoil prevents burying the seed 0.5-inches through normal drill seeding methods.

• Seeding accomplished outside the time intervals listed above may be allowed only when the Contractor’s request is approved in writing. The contractor will be responsible for reseeding, re-mulching, and repairing any areas which fail to produce vegetation.

5.5.6 Mulch

Mulch shall be applied after seeding, consisting of long-stemmed weed-free and seed-free straw or hay, applied at a rate of 2-tons per acre. Mulch shall be crimped into the soil surface.

5.5.7 Erosion Control Blankets

Erosion Control Blankets shall be applied after seeding on all slopes up to 1:4 gradients. Blankets shall be machine-produced mat with a biodegradable agricultural straw matrix (0.5 lbs/sq yd). The blankets shall have a 12-month typical functional longevity and be designed for use on geotechnically stable slopes and channels with a shear stress up to 0.50 pounds per square foot.

5.5.8 Vegetation Establishment

• Vegetation will be considered established when all seeded areas are assured of developing a satisfactory stand of growth. Dead spots up to 0.5 square feet in size must not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total seeded area. Dead spots greater than 0.5 square feet shall be reseeded and freshly re-mulched.

• The site shall be free of eroded areas and free from infestation of noxious weeds.

• Upon acceptance of the seeded areas, a 90-day maintenance period will commence. During the maintenance period the Contractor is responsible for all aspects of establishment and maintenance to ensure vigorous and healthy growth of seeded species.

• The Contractor shall inspect weekly for insect damage, nutrient deficiencies, weeds, and disease and take immediate corrective action.

• Water the seeded area during the maintenance period only as necessary to maintain a healthy stand of seeded species. Over-watering will not be permitted.

5.6Approved Plant List

All plants listed in the Buckley AFB Approved Plant List have been selected for:

• Xeric characteristics and low-water requirements

• Adaptability to Buckley high plains conditions

• Aesthetic form, color, texture, and function. When used consistently these plant materials will combine to form a unified landscape theme throughout the Base.

5.6.1Evergreen Trees

Genus species Common Name

Limber Pine

Bristlecone Pine

Ponderosa Pine

Limber Pine

Pinyon Pine Pinyon Pine

5.6.2 Deciduous Trees- Shade

Genus species Common Name

Common Hackberry Bur Oak

5.6.3 Deciduous Trees-

Ornamental

Tatarian Maple Wafer Ash

Rivularis Hawthrone

Cockspur Hawthorne

Cockspur Hawthorne Singleleaf Ash

Brandywine Crabapple

Radiant Crabapple

Prairie Gem Pear

5.6.4Evergreen Shrubs

Freemont’s Desesrt Holly Desert Holly

Mountain Mahogany

Adams Needle Yucca

5.6.5Deciduous Shrubs

Squaw Apple Gwen’s Buffalo Currant

Gwen Buffalo Currant

Saskatoon Serviceberry

Rabbitbrush

Mormon Tea

Common Chokecherry Staghorn sumac

Western Sandcherry

Staghorn sumac Mountain snowberry

5.6.6Ornamental Grasses

Heavy Metal Switchgrass

Prairie Dropseed Pink Crystal Ruby Grass

Blue Avena Grass Adagio Maiden

Grass

A utumn Light Maiden Grass

Oriental Fountain Grass Red Switchgrass Ribbon Grass

Purple Fountain Grass

Little Bluestem

Souix Blue Indian Grass

Indian Grass

5.6.7Evergreen Ground Cover

Prince of Wales Juniper Andorra Juniper Bar Harbor Juniper

Calgary Carpet Juniper

5.6.8Perennials

Purple Coneflower Shasta Daisy Blue Flax

5.7.5 Approved Turf Grasses

Due to the increasing scarcity and cost of irrigation water and grounds maintenance services, turf grasses are permitted only in the Tier1 Premium areas of the Base. Many existing turf lawns will eventually be converted to

Shortgrass Prairie Mix and Buffalograss to conserve water and contribute to the Buckley Colorado High-Prairie landscaping theme. (See: Landscape Zone Map for Tier 1 Premium areas)

Turf grasses should only be used sparingly in the following areas:

• High visibility streetscapes and high priority facilities.

• High population pedestrian areas.

• Special pocket parks, picnic areas, static displays.

• For athletic sports and recreation purposes.

The following turf grasses have been selected specifically for their compatibility with the climate and soils at

Buckley AFB. Their characteristics include, drought tolerance, disease resistance, recovery from moderate wear, and winter color.

• Canadian Blue Fescue should be used in areas of high visibility where there is minimal pedestrian traffic on the grass surface. Appropriate areas include the North Aspen Corridor, and the A-Basin Community

Center.

Canadian Blue Fescue % by weight

Creeping Red Fescue, SR 5200 30% Blue Fescue, SR 3200 30% Hard fescue, ‘Discovery’ 24% Canada

Bluegrass, ‘Ruebens’ 16%

• Tall Fescue should be used in areas of higher pedestrian traffic. Appropriate areas include pocket parks, picnic areas, and recreation areas.

Tall Fescue % by weight

Tall Fescue, ‘Grande’ 25% Tall Fescue, ‘Pixie’ 25% Tall Fescue, ‘Ninja Grande’ 25% Tall Fescue, ‘Coyote’ 25%

App rove d

Turf

Gra ss

5.8 Landscape

Feature Areas

This Facilities Excellence

Plan has identified 26

Landscape Feature Areas throughout the developed areas of Buckley AFB. Each Feature Area was designed to be executed in an incremental manner, depending on available funds and priority of needed improvements. The

“Feature Areas” are illustrated on Maps 5.8.1 through 5.8.26. Regardless of the location or intensity of landscaping, each Feature Area will be developed incrementally according to following priorities:

1. Storm water control, culverts, and swale improvements.

2. Pedestrian walkways, sidewalks, and connecting pathways.

3. Non-irrigated prairie grass and re-vegetation for erosion control.

4. Rockscapes and non-irrigated ornamental grass streetscapes.

5. Low-water shrubs and ornamental groundcover.

6. Evergreen trees and mulch beds.

7. Deciduous trees and flower beds.

8. Turf grasses and sod lawns.

9. Lighted walkway bollards, benches, tables, shade structures

10. Planters, patios, malls, displays, flags, banners, malls, memorials.

Currently the Base considers Priorities 1 – 4 to be mandatory. All other features are optional. Many of the

Feature Areas currently lack the most fundamental basic infrastructure such as lighting, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and drainage culverts. Thus, irrigated decorative landscape features are a lower priority, to be executed only after the mandatory priorities have been satisfied.

5.8.1 West Community Center

Create pedestrian connections between Privatized Housing Running Trail, Youth Center, Child

Development Center, and other Community facilities along A-Basin Avenue.

5.8.2East Community Center Create pedestrian connections between MSG/HQ and Community Activity facilities making use of multiple shared parking areas.

5.8.3Community Mall Create a central gathering mall connecting all Community facilities with amenities for formal ceremonies and outdoor group events.

5.8.4 Visitors Quarters Temporary Lodging Facility

Develop the A-Basin Streetscape to enhance the entry to VQ/TLF and improve pedestrian circulation to the Chapel and other Community facilities.

5.8.5Industrial Area Create a landscaped buffer zone along Aspen Street and transition to simple buffalo grass and prairie grass throughout the proposed Industrial Area along Camp Hale Way.

5.8.6 Aspen Streetscape at A-Basin 5.8.7Aspen Streetscape at Beaver

Creek

5.8.8 Aspen Streetscape at the Industrial Pond Storm Water Crossing

5.8.9 Aspen Streetscape at 460

th

Wing Headquarters Building. 5.8.10Aspen Streetscape at Intersection of Camp Hale Way 5.8.11Aspen Streetscape at Intersection of Sunlight Way 5.8.12Aspen Streetscape at Toll Gate Creek Bridge 5.8.13Aspen Streetscape at South Gate Barriers 5.8.14Telluride

Streetscape at Breckenridge Ave 5.8.15 Telluride Streetscape at the Running Trail Loop. 5.8.16Telluride Streetscapeat Bldg 210 transition.

5.8.17Telluride Streetscape at the West ADF Entrance. 5.8.18Telluride

Streetscapeat Patriot Hall Dorm 205. 5.8.19Williams Lake Family Campground 5.8.20 Typical Privatized Housing Yard Landscaping.

5.8.21Space Wing Display & DSP Satellite Commemorative. 5.8.22Typical Non-irrigated Rockscape with Boulders.

5.8.24 Breckenridge Avenue Distinguished Visitors Route 5.8.25Telluride

Gate / BX Entry Streetscape 5.8.26Sunlight Way Typical Tier 3 Streetscape