22._Moron_AB_INRMP.PDF

INTEGRATED NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN

FOR

MORÓN AIR BASE, SPAIN

(2015 – 2020)

FINAL

496 ABS/CEIE

Morón Air Base, Spain and

AIR FORCE CIVIL ENGINEERING CENTER

Ramstein Air Base, Germany

Submitted by:

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Rodenbach, Germany

Contract No. FA8903-08-D-8781, TO 175 June 2015

Review By Date Reviewed Remarks

Inma Pons 20 Jun 12 The previous version of this plan required extensive reformatting.

Andy Perfecto Mar 13 Update of office symbols

Eva Sabaca June 2015 Review the plan submitted by Tetra Tech

Eva Sabaca January 2016 Submited to the ESOHC for approval

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

INRMP - Final Morón AB, Spain i June 2015

Table of Contents

1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY................................................................................................ 1-1

2 GENERAL INFORMATION ........................................................................................... 2-1

2.1 Purpose ......................................................................................................................... 2-1

2.2 Natural Resources Regulatory Requirements .............................................................. 2-1

2.2.1 Status of Forces Agreement ..................................................................................... 2-2

2.2.2 U.S. Department of Defense .................................................................................... 2-2

2.2.3 U.S. Air Force .......................................................................................................... 2-3

2.2.4 European Union ....................................................................................................... 2-4

2.2.5 Spain – Host Nation ................................................................................................. 2-8

2.3 Management Philosophy ............................................................................................ 2-10

2.4 Specific Roles and Responsibilities ........................................................................... 2-10

2.4.1 Squadron Commander (496 ABS/CC)................................................................... 2-10

2.4.2 Environmental Safety and Occupation Health Committee .................................... 2-10

2.4.3 Flight Commander (496 ABS/CE)......................................................................... 2-11

2.4.4 Judge Advocate (86 AW/JA) ................................................................................. 2-11

2.4.5 Director Civil Engineer (496 ABS/DCE) .............................................................. 2-11

2.4.6 Environmental (496 ABS/CEIE) ........................................................................... 2-11

2.4.7 Chief Operations (496 ABS/CEO)......................................................................... 2-11

2.4.8 Engineering Element (496 ABS/CEN) .................................................................. 2-12

2.5 Natural Resources Management Training Opportunities .......................................... 2-12 3 INSTALLATION OVERVIEW ....................................................................................... 3-1

3.1 Location and Area ........................................................................................................ 3-1

3.2 Morón AB History and Mission .................................................................................. 3-2

3.3 Topography .................................................................................................................. 3-4

3.4 Climate ......................................................................................................................... 3-4

3.5 Land and Water Resources .......................................................................................... 3-5

3.5.1 Air ............................................................................................................................ 3-5

3.5.2 Geology .................................................................................................................... 3-6

3.5.3 Hydrogeology .......................................................................................................... 3-6

3.5.4 Grazing ..................................................................................................................... 3-7

3.5.5 Cropland ................................................................................................................... 3-7

3.5.6 Forest........................................................................................................................ 3-8

3.5.7 Outdoor Recreation .................................................................................................. 3-8

3.5.8 Surface Water........................................................................................................... 3-8

3.5.9 Ground Water........................................................................................................... 3-8

3.5.10 Wetlands .................................................................................................................. 3-8

3.6 Natural and Biological Resources in Andalusia .......................................................... 3-8

3.6.1 Protected Biotopes ................................................................................................... 3-9

3.6.2 Natura 2000 .............................................................................................................. 3-9

Table of Contents

Morón AB, Spain ii June 2015

4 THE NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN ............................................ 4-1

4.1 Establishing a Baseline ................................................................................................ 4-1

4.2 Subsequent Surveys ..................................................................................................... 4-1

4.3 Habitats ........................................................................................................................ 4-1

4.4 Flora ............................................................................................................................. 4-6

4.5 Birds ............................................................................................................................. 4-6

4.6 Mammals.................................................................................................................... 4-10

4.7 Amphibians and Reptiles ........................................................................................... 4-11

4.8 Invertebrates ............................................................................................................... 4-13

4.9 Threatened and Endangered Species ......................................................................... 4-14

5 RARE SPECIES ................................................................................................................. 5-1

5.1 IUCN/Spain/Andalusian Rarity Rankings ................................................................... 5-1

5.2 IUCN/Spain/Andalusian Rare Birds ............................................................................ 5-2

5.3 IUCN/Spain/Andalusian Rare Plants ........................................................................... 5-3

5.4 IUCN/Spain/Andalusian Protected Mammals ............................................................. 5-3

5.5 IUCN/Spain/Andalusian Protected Amphibians and Reptiles ..................................... 5-4

6 MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND RECOMMENDED ACTIONS .................................. 6-1

6.1 Overview ...................................................................................................................... 6-1

6.2 Protected Species ......................................................................................................... 6-1

6.2.1 House Martins .......................................................................................................... 6-1

6.2.2 Barn Swallows ......................................................................................................... 6-1

6.3 Small “Ponds” in the Northern Section of the Base .................................................... 6-2

6.4 Farming ........................................................................................................................ 6-2

6.5 Invasive Species ........................................................................................................... 6-2

6.6 Base Planning............................................................................................................... 6-2

6.7 Water Resources .......................................................................................................... 6-3

6.7.1 Ground and Surface Water....................................................................................... 6-3

6.7.2 Storage Tanks........................................................................................................... 6-3

6.7.3 Pesticides.................................................................................................................. 6-3

6.8 Pest Management ......................................................................................................... 6-3 7 CURRENT MAJOR IMPACTS ....................................................................................... 7-1

7.1 Past Contamination ...................................................................................................... 7-1

7.2 Current Operations ....................................................................................................... 7-1

7.2.1 ASTs/USTs .............................................................................................................. 7-1

7.2.2 Hazardous Waste ..................................................................................................... 7-1

8 REFERENCES ................................................................................................................... 8-1

8.1 General Sources ........................................................................................................... 8-1

8.2 U.S. Regulations .......................................................................................................... 8-1

Morón AB, Spain iii June 2015

8.3 Spanish and Andalusian Regulations ........................................................................... 8-2

8.4 EU Regulations ............................................................................................................ 8-2

Figures Figure 2-1: Determination of Environmental Impact ................................................................. 2-5 Figure 3-1: Morón AB Location Map ......................................................................................... 3-1 Figure 3-2: Morón AB Aerial Image .......................................................................................... 3-2 Figure 3-3: Morón de la Frontera Climate Diagram ................................................................... 3-5 Figure 3-4: Natura 2000 Sites in the Extended Vicinity of Morón AB .................................... 3-10 Figure 4-1: Habitat Categories .................................................................................................... 4-2 Figure 4-2: Morón AB Flora Demographics .............................................................................. 4-7

Tables Table 4-1: Morón AB Habitat Codes vs. EUNIS Habitat Classification .................................... 4-4 Table 4-2: Birds Identified on Morón AB .................................................................................. 4-8 Table 4-3: Mammals Identified on Morón AB ......................................................................... 4-11 Table 4-4: Amphibians Identified on Morón AB ..................................................................... 4-12 Table 4-5: Reptiles Identified on Morón AB ............................................................................ 4-12 Table 4-6: T&E and Special Status Species on Morón AB ...................................................... 4-15 Table 5-1: Summary of Protection Status for Identified Bird Species on Morón AB ................ 5-2 Table 5-2: Summary of Protection Status for Bird Species Breeding within Morón AB........... 5-2 Table 5-3: Red List Status of Identified Bird Species ................................................................ 5-3 Table 5-4: Red List Status of Identified Mammal Species ......................................................... 5-3 Table 5-5: Red List Status of Identified Reptile Species ............................................................ 5-4

Appendices

A Spanish Protected List B Andalusian Protected Species List C Habitats Observed on Morón AB D Flora Observed on Morón AB E Protection Status of Flora and Fauna F Species Potentially Present on Morón AB G Bird Guidance

Morón AB, Spain iv June 2015

Morón AB, Spain 1-1 June 2015

List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

AB Air Base ABG Air Base Group ABS Air Base Squadron AEA Abbreviated Environmental Assessment AEF Aerospace Expeditionary Forces AF Air Force AFI Air Force Instruction AFPD Air Force Policy Directive AFSPACECOM Air Force Space Command amsl Above Mean Sea Level AST Aboveground Storage Tank BASH Bird Aircraft Strike Hazards BCE Base Civil Engineer bgs Below Ground Surface BMC Base Maintenance Contract ⁰C Degrees Celsius CATEX Categorical Exclusion CC Squadron Commander CE Commander, Civil Engineers CEN Civil Engineers, Engineering CENTCOM Central Command CEO Civil Engineers, Operations CEIE Civil Engineers, Environmental CFR Code of Federal Regulations cm Centimeter CONUS Continental United States CSS Combat Support Squadron DCE Director Civil Engineering DoD Department of Defense DoDI Department of Defense Instructions EC European Community ECAMP Environmental Compliance Assessment Management Program EEA Environmental Executive Agent EIAP Environmental Impact Analysis Assessment Process ER Environmental Review ESOHC Environmental, Safety & Occupational Health Committee ESOHCAMP Environmental, Safety & Occupational Health Compliance

Assessment Management Program EU European Union

Acronyms and Abbreviations

Morón AB, Spain 1-2 June 2015

EUCOM European Command EUNIS European Nature Information System ⁰F Degrees Fahrenheit FGS Final Government Standards FGS-S Final Government Standards for Spain ft Feet FY Fiscal Year GIS Geographic Information Systems HQ Headquarters INRMP Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature km Kilometer LEC Lead Environmental Component LIC Lugares de Importancia Comunitaria m Meter m/d Meter per day m/s Meter per second MAGRAMA Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Environment (Ministerio de

Agricultura, Alimentación y Medio Ambiente) MILCON Military Construction mm Millimeter NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organization NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NRCP Natural Resources Conservation Program NRI Natural Resources Inventory O&M Operation and Maintenance OEA Open Enforcement Action OEBGD Overseas Environmental Baseline Guidance Documents OSD Office of the Secretary of Defense PSB Primary Support Base SAC Special Areas of Concern SBMC Spain Base Maintenance Contract SCI Special Community of Intrest SDB Standby Dispersal Base SOFA Status of Forces Agreement SPA Special Protection Areas SpAF Spanish Air Force T&E Threatened and Endangered TDY Temporary Duty

Morón AB, Spain 1-3 June 2015

UME Emergency Military Unit UN United Nations UNESCO United Nation Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization U.S. United States USAF United States Air Force USAFE United States Air Force Europe USAFEI United States Air Force Europe Instruction UST Underground Storage Tank WRM War Reserve Material ZEC Zonas Especiales de Conservation ZEPA Zonas de Especial Protección par las Aves

Morón AB, Spain 1-4 June 2015

Morón AB, Spain 1-1 June 2015

1 Executive Summary The Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) is a tool to ensure the protection and maintenance of natural resources on United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) installations. The protection of natural resources is accomplished by proper management and integration of these resources into all phases of the installation’s mission and comprehensive planning processes.

The principal regulatory drivers for development of the INRMP are the current Final Governing Standards-Spain (FGS-S) (May 2014), and applicable Air Force Instructions (AFI).

The goal of the plan is to manage natural resources in accordance with the FGS-S and provide recommendations for actions and a path forward to achieve solutions. Specific objectives and solutions established for the INRMP reflect the requirements of the FGS-S, which include:

1. Develop the INRMP so that long-term continuity is maintained between managers overseeing natural resources management.

2. Establish a scientifically sound baseline for habitat and species inventories, and define the frequency and proper sequencing of the inventory updates.

3. Develop management guidelines for threatened and endangered (T&E) species that address impacts arising from base actions.

4. Establish an understanding of acceptable strategic and tactical management practices that are consistent with Air Force and host nation standards and policies.

5. Ensure data collected are properly managed for analysis and effective decision-making.

6. Establish a process for monitoring and ongoing assessment of projects to ensure the intended results are achieved.

7. Develop methods to gain greater understanding of natural resources management solutions through training and information transfer between organizational elements within the Air Force and the host-nation agencies.

The INRMP includes a description of the natural resources baseline, Air Force and host nation coordination procedures, issues and concerns, and specific actions to be implemented by the 496 Air Base Squadron (ABS) to maintain the natural resources at Morón Air Base (AB). Specific actions provide a path forward to ensure that natural resources are managed and integrated into all phases of installation and mission planning.

Executive Summary

Morón AB, Spain 1-2 June 2015

Morón AB, Spain 2-1 June 2015

2 General Information

2.1 Purpose

The U.S. Air Force (USAF) recognizes its role in protecting the inherent value of natural resources through planning, decision-making, and implementing natural resources management programs. Functional and resilient natural ecosystems are the “green infrastructure” that sustains human uses, including day-to-day military readiness and the long-term mission. Therefore, maintaining and restoring ecosystem integrity is the primary goal of natural resources management activities.

This plan establishes the procedures for the 496 ABS to ensure the protection and maintenance of natural resources at Morón AB. It is designed to ensure that the installation tracks and maintains the status of its natural resources.

The INRMP is an integral tool for the successful management of installation ecosystems. It provides an interdisciplinary approach to ecosystem management, integrating all applicable aspects involved in natural resources management. This INRMP is a living document and should be reviewed annually in accordance with AFI 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management (17 September 2004) and USAFE Instruction (USAFEI) 32-7064 (21 October 1996, certified current 8 April 2014).

This INRMP has been created to:

• Ensure compliance with the FGS-S and associated USAFE environmental regulations;

• Protect surrounding properties from potential impacts resulting from mission-essential operations through the monitoring of natural resources and rehabilitation of problem areas;

• Document the future direction of natural resource programs;

• Manage existing natural resources and protected species to maintain current resource levels, and enhance and protect these resources in a manner consistent with mission requirements;

• Maintain a “no-net-loss” natural resources management approach, if impacts to resources are unavoidable due to mission requirements, which provides for the compensation of any lost or displaced resources; and

• Coordinate all planning efforts with appropriate on- and off-site entities to ensure natural resources management practices are compatible with USAF and host nation requirements and are integrated into the appropriate installation plan and budgets.

2.2 Natural Resources Regulatory Requirements

This section describes the regulatory requirements governing the management of natural resources associated with Morón AB. USAF installations operating abroad must comply with United States (U.S.) requirements outlined in Department of Defense (DoD) Directives, AFIs, and USAFEIs, as well as host nation laws.

General Information

Morón AB, Spain 2-2 June 2015

In general, the FGS-S is the single definitive source of environmental compliance applicable to DoD installations and to U.S. Forces activities in Spain. Through compliance with the FGS-S, all regulatory requirements of the host nation and the U.S. should be addressed.

2.2.1 Status of Forces Agreement

The Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) plays a vital role in preserving command authority, guaranteeing fair treatment of individual service members, and conserving scarce resources. The purpose of such agreements is to set forth rights and responsibilities between the U.S. and the host government on such matters as criminal and civil jurisdiction, the wearing of uniforms, carrying arms, tax and customs relief, entry and exit of personnel and property, and resolution of damage claims. The SOFA is usually an integral part of the agreement that allows U.S. military forces to operate within the host country. Each SOFA is negotiated separately with the host country, although the U.S. has a multilateral SOFA with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members.

2.2.2 U.S. Department of Defense

2.2.2.1 Overseas Environmental Baseline Guidance Document

The DoD Directive 6050.16, DoD Policy for Establishing and Implementing Environmental Standards at Overseas Installations, (20 September, 1991), and DoD Publication 4715.05-G, the Overseas Environmental Baseline Guidance Documents (OEBGD) (1 May 2007), requires implementation of uniform conservation standards for natural resources at DoD installations and facilities in foreign countries.

Specifically, the OEBGD provides criteria, standards, and management practices to be used by DoD Lead Environmental Components (LECs) (formerly Environmental Executive Agents [EEAs]) in determining the applicable governing standards in accordance with DoD Instruction (DoDI) 4715.05, Environmental Compliance at Installations Outside the United States (1 November 2013).

The DoDI 4715.05 requires the following:

1. Establishment and maintenance of an environmental baseline guidance document.

2. Establishment of the DoD LECs for environmental matters in each foreign country where DoD operations are conducted at installations or facilities.

3. The LEC to evaluate, determine, and issue host nation-specific FGS and periodically revalidate them.

4. DoD components conducting such operations overseas are responsible for complying with the host nation-specific FGS.

2.2.2.2 Final Governing Standards for Spain

In general, the country-specific FGS are the principal regulatory drivers behind the successful management and protection of natural resources at U.S. military installations operating throughout Europe. Host nation-specific standards have been developed by comparing and

Morón AB, Spain 2-3 June 2015 adopting the more protective requirements of the OEBGD and the country-specific national and state environmental laws and regulations, and applicable international agreements.

The purpose of the FGS-S is to provide specific guidance on environmental protection for U.S.

installations operating in Spain. The FGS-S is the single definitive source of environmental compliance applicable to DoD installations and to U.S. Forces activities in Spain. The 496 ABS should, therefore, ensure compliance with the FGS-S as it applies to Morón AB. Through compliance with the FGS-S, all requirements of host nation and U.S. Federal regulations should be addressed.

Chapter 13 of the 2014 FGS-S, “Natural Resources and Endangered Species”, contains criteria for required plans and programs required to ensure proper protection, enhancement, and management of natural resources and any biological species declared threatened or endangered by the U.S., Spanish, or European Union (EU) Governments. The FGS-S criteria describe inventories, planning, and protective action to be performed by personnel with natural resources management expertise.

Host Nation Enforcement Actions (HNEA) can occur when an installation is found to be out of compliance with regulations as provided in the FGS-S. The applicable penalty is dependent on the severity of the non-conformance and the applicable regulatory body. An Environmental, Safety and Occupational Health Compliance Assessment and Management Program (ESOHCAMP) (currently referred to as Environmental Compliance Assessment and Management Program [ECAMP]) assesses an installation’s compliance with the FGS-S.

ESOHCAMP findings identifying non-compliance with the FGS-S are recorded and presented to the installation for corrective action.

2.2.3 U.S. Air Force

AFI 32-7001 Environmental Management (4 November 2011) details objectives, background, and standards unique to USAF environmental activities in foreign countries. Air Force Policy Directive (AFPD) 32-70, Environmental Quality (20 July 1994), identifies general USAFE requirements for a natural resources management program.

2.2.3.1 USAFE Integrated Natural Resource Management Planning AFI 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management (18 November 2014), does not apply outside the U.S., but compliance with the requirements within the OEBGD and FGS-S take precedente over this AFI. The USAFE-adopted version is USAFE Instruction 32-7064 (21 October 1996, certified current 8 April 2014). It provides the framework to help installations comply with FGS requirements for the protection and management of natural resources and T&E species. It also provides guidelines on the preparation, review, and updates of installation-specific INRMPs.

2.2.3.2 USAFE Environmental Impact Analysis Process

Title 32, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 989 (32 CFR 989) is the controlling document for the EIAP process to be followed by the USAF both within the U.S. and abroad. While the majority of the document focuses primarily on the environmental impact analysis under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), Parts 989.37 and 989.38 provides procedures and

Morón AB, Spain 2-4 June 2015 requirements for compliance with EO 12114 at locations outside the U.S. by following 32 CFR 187, Environmental Effects Abroad of Major Department of Defense Actions (1 July 2011).

In general, AF Form 332 is prepared prior to any work activity generated on base. It could be the only EIAP document required if the environmental impacts of that activity are determined to be insignificant. AF Form 813 is used to determine the appropriate level of environmental analysis required by an activity. Figure 2-1 provides a summary of the review process in the determination of potential environmental impact.

In accordance with 32 CFR 187, the environmental analysis must be documented in either an environmental study (ES) or an environmental review (ER); however, if environmental documentation has already been prepared for the specific action, no new documentation is required.

If the AF Form 813 determination requires further environmental analysis, and the subsequent analysis concludes that there is no potential to significantly harm the environment, an abbreviated environmental assessment (AEA) is the correct level of documentation. The AEA will be approved by the installation Environmental, Safety, and Occupational Health Council (ESOHC) chairperson and forwarded to the Headquarters (HQ) USAFE/A7CI for SAF/IEE approval and signature. If the analysis concludes that there is potential to significantly harm the environment, then an ER is the correct level of documentation.

2.2.4 European Union

While a significant portion of environmental policy and legislation in European Member States is initiated and governed at a European level, the treaty and amendments permit Member States to adopt stricter environmental standards only where it is not seen as being at odds with the functioning of a European internal market. European legislative measures can take four forms:

• Regulations: These are binding on all Member States in their entirety and take precedence over national legislation.

• Directives: These are binding on Member States as to the result to be achieved.

Member States have some flexibility as to how the measure will be implemented by national and state legislation.

• Decision: These are binding in their entirety and may be addressed to government, private enterprise, or individuals.

• Recommendations and opinions: These are not binding but illustrate the policy agenda.

European environmental law is generally in the form of Directives. Consequently, in Spain the national environmental law must demonstrate that it meets the spirit of a particular Directive.

This need not, however, contain the exact wording of the original and may be accommodated by one or more national laws or regulations.

Europe has adopted a large number of environmental laws and regulations in all environmental media – land, air, and water. These cover environmental standards, environmental quality objectives, administrative procedures and policy instruments. Important relevant examples include: Directive 2009/147/EC (The Birds Directive) and Directive 92/43/EEC (The Habitats Directive).

Morón AB, Spain 2-5 June 2015

Figure 2-1: Determination of Environmental Impact

Morón AB, Spain 2-6 June 2015

The value of natural resources is recognized worldwide and it is understood that cooperative approaches are needed for their conservation. In 1992, The Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro provided a forum for world leaders to establish a common approach to conserving natural resources. The EU developed the Habitats Directive to meet commitments made at the Earth Summit. This directive provides protection to certain habitat, plants, and animals throughout Europe. The Habitats Directive as well as the 1979 Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds (Birds Directive) establishes the Natura 2000 sites. These sites are given additional protection through designation as either a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) (Zonas Especiales de Conservation [ZEC]) under the Habitats Directive, or as a Special Protection Area (SPA) (Zonas de Especial Protección par alas Aves [ZEPA]) under the Birds Directive.

Developments that would destroy or harm a Natura 2000 site will only be permitted if a need is demonstrated, there is no alternative, and the government agrees that it is in the overriding public interest that it should proceed. Any loss must be mitigated by the creation of new habitat or other appropriate compensation measures.

2.2.4.1 The Habitats Directive (Directive 92/43/EEC)

The aim of this Directive is the maintenance of biodiversity within the European territory of member states through the conservation of natural habitats of wild flora and fauna. It extends several of the protection methods established in the Birds Directive and impasses obligations on Member States similar to those laid down in the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife.

Measures to be implemented under this Directive fall into two parts: The conservation of habitats and the protection of species. A habitat type is defined as being of community interest if it is in danger of disappearance within its natural range, or has a small natural range, or represents an outstanding example of one or more of five biogeographical regions (Alpine, Atlantic, Continental, Macronesian, Mediterranean). Specific habitat types are provided in Annex I of the Habitats directive. Annex II contains a list of animal and plant species of community interest, the conservation of which requires the special designation of their habitats.

Such species are defined as endangered, vulnerable, rare, ore endemic and requiring particular attention.

Beyond establishing the required management regimes, the Habitats Directive also provides for assessment of development proposals that are likely to impact sites designated as SACs. These provisions are based on existing practices with respect to environmental impact assessments and not only address a reduction in habitat quality, but also other impacts, such as noise, that could disturb protected species. Even where such assessments show that significant damage to a site could occur, the Habitats Directive does not preclude development. Member States may authorize development in cases where no viable alternatives are available and where an overriding public interest in the development is demonstrated. In these cases they are obliged to implement compensation measures by creation or improvement of habitat elsewhere to maintain the integrity of the network. In the case of development that will have an adverse impact on sites that host priority habitats or species (particularly rare and vulnerable habitats and species that are a small part of the overall list), the Directive requires the European Commission (EC) to give an opinion on whether an overriding public interest is involved.

Morón AB, Spain 2-7 June 2015

Member states are also obligated to establish a system of strict protection for both a list of animal species of community interest (Annex IV [a]) and a parallel list of plant species (Annex IV [b]).

Many of the species are the same as those listed in Annex II. For animal species, all forms of deliberate capture or killing of animals in the wild must be prohibited.

Currently, there are no SACs on or near Morón AB.

2.2.4.2 The Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC)

This Directive aims to control the hunting and killing of wild birds, and to protect their eggs and nests. In addition, it also requires the provision of sufficient diversity and area of habitats so as to maintain the populations of all species. This can be achieved primarily by creating protected areas, managing habitats both inside and outside protected areas, re-establishing destroyed biotopes and creating new ones. The following are prohibited:

• Deliberate killing or capture by any method

• Deliberate destruction of, or damage to, their nests and eggs or removal of nests

• Removal of eggs, even if empty

• Deliberate disturbance, particularly during breeding and rearing

• Keeping birds whose hunting and capture is prohibited

Annex I lists the many species of birds that are considered to be particularly vulnerable.

Member states are required to classify the most suitable areas for the conservation of these species.

Under this directive, Spain has accepted a commitment on “the maintenance and protection of habitats favorable to the reproduction and survival of Spanish protected species and habitats and indigenous plants, fish, and wildlife.” Beyond this, Spain is committed to take special measures to conserve the habitats of certain rare or vulnerable species as well as all regularly occurring migratory species. Conservation measures include the designation of suitable areas as SPAs and procedures to protect these from damaging developments.

Currently, there are no SPAs on or near Morón AB.

2.2.4.3 Natura 2000

The Natura 2000 network of protected areas encompasses the designated SPAs and SACs. Most of the SPAs and SACs are already designated as protected areas under host nation federal and state legislation. The SPAs are designated directly by the host nation / Member State, while a list of nominations for SACs must be submitted to the EU, where the Commission will determine whether it is a site of community importance (SCI) (Lugares de Importancia Comunitaria [LIC]) and should be included in the Natura 2000 network.

Developments that destroy or harm a Natura 2000 site will only be permitted if a need is demonstrated, there is no alternative, and the government agrees that it is in the overriding public interest that the proposed action should proceed. Any loss must be mitigated by the creation of new habitat or other appropriate compensation measures.

Morón AB, Spain 2-8 June 2015

2.2.4.4 Bonn Convention

Council Decision 82/461/EEC on the Conservation of Migratory Species (24 June 1982) approves the Bonn Convention (1 November 1983) on wildlife and habitat conservation on a global scale. The Convention acts as framework for the conservation and sustainable use of migratory species through coordinated conservation efforts through the migratory Range States.

The Bonn Convention provides lists of those species threatened with extinction (Appendix I of the Convention) and those that need or would significantly benefit from international cooperation (Appendix II of the Convention (http://www.cms.int/en).

2.2.4.5 Bern Convention

Council Decision 82/72/EEC on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (3 December 1981) approves the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention of 19 September 1979). The goal of the Bern Convention is the conservation of wild flora and fauna and their natural habitats. The Convention also considers the impact other policies my have on natural heritage, recognizing the intrinsic value of wild flora and fauna, and the importance of conservation for future generations (http://www.coe.int/t/dg4/cultureheritage/nature/Bern/default_en.asp)

2.2.5 Spain – Host Nation

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Ministerio de Agricultura, Alimentación y Medio Ambiente) (MAGRAMA) is the current overarching government body responsible for proposing and implementing regulations with regard to government policy on the environment, as well as agriculture, livestock and fisheries, the food industry, and rural development (Royal Decree 1823/2011, 21 December).

The Ministry of Environment (Secretaria de Estado de Medio Ambiente) was established to focus on the preparation of the basic environmental legislation for Spain, in accordance with the European standards, and coordinate actions between the various regions concerning the conservation of wild plants and animal species.

Within the Ministry of Environment, the Directorate General of Quality and Environmental Assessment and Natural Environment (Dirección General de Calidad y Evaluación Ambiental y Medio Natural), with the help of the General Branch of Natural Environment (La Subdirectión General de Medio Natural), is responsible for functions provided in Law 42/2007 of 13 December on Natural Heritage and Biodiversity (including the Spanish Inventory of Natural Heritage and Biodiversity), the Natura 2000 network and protected natural areas, and implementing national and international programs for biodiversity and conservation (including the State Strategic Plan for Natural Heritage and Biodiversity), among other responsibilities (Royal Decree 401/2012 of 17 February – The Basic Organizational Structure of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment).

In response to provisions established by Law 42/2007, Royal Decree 556/2011 of April 20 was created to regulate the Spanish Inventory of Natural Heritage and Biodiversity, its content, structure, and operation. Royal Decree 139/2011 of February 4 was created to provide for the List of Wild Species under Special Protection and the Spanish Catalog of Endangered Species.

http://www.cms.int/en http://www.coe.int/t/dg4/cultureheritage/nature/Bern/default_en.asp

Morón AB, Spain 2-9 June 2015

This list, as referenced in the FGS-S, is available on the website for the MAGRAMA (www.magrama.gob.es). For convenience, the list is provided in Appendix A. An annex to Royal Decree 139/2011 (Order AAA/75/2012 of 12 January), was prepared to add applicable Mediterranean species to the protection list. This additional list can also be found on the MAGRAMA website.

2.2.5.1 Regional Government – Junta de Andalucía

Morón AB is within the province of Sevilla, in the region of Andalusia, which is one of 17 autonomous communities in Spain. Andalusia is characterized by extraordinary biodiversity of natural spaces and great diversity of landscape. To protect and maintain these vast resources, the Junta de Andalucia, via the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning (Consejería de Medio Ambiente y Ordenación del Territorio), acts to integrate all territorial policies for the greater good of the environment throughout the region. As environmental agents, they are tasked with the administration, protection, and monitoring of the environmental heritage.

Law 2/1989 of 18 July, approving the inventory of protected natural areas of Andalusia, was accepted, providing additional measures for the protection of these areas. This includes a framework for the planning required for the successful revitalization

The Act 8/2003, 28 October, of Wild Flora and Fauna is the principal mechanism for the legislative protection of wildlife in Andalucía. This legislation includes the following features:

a. Ensure a coordinated manner by the maintenance of biodiversity and the preservation of wildlife and their habitats along the lines of this Act.

b. Give priority to the conservation of native species in their natural habitat, and to regulate the introduction of them.

c. Prevent the introduction and spread of species, subspecies or races that can compete with native species or alter their genetic or biological or ecological processes.

d. Protect the habitat of wild species itself against actions that threaten their conservation or recovery.

e. Promote and monitor the use and exploitation orderly and responsible for wildlife in the context of sustainable development aimed at improving the level and quality of life of the Andalusian population.

f. Promote scientific knowledge, environmental education for conservation of biodiversity and active social participation in fulfilling the objectives of this Act.

Law 42/2007 of 13 December provides the Autonomous Communities with the responsibility to establish the required conservation measures with regard to SPAs and SACs, ensuring the proper planning and management of species and habitat types in these areas (www.juntadeandalucia.es).

The governing council of Andalusia approved Agreement of 18 January 2011 and Agreement of 13 March 2012, which provide measures necessary for the recovery and conservation of threatened species and protected habitats.

A link to the Andalusian Protected Species List, dated 2005/2006 is provided in the 2014 FGS-S.

For convenience, the list is also provided in Appendix B.

http://www.magrama.gob.es/ http://www.juntadeandalucia.es/

Morón AB, Spain 2-10 June 2015

2.3 Management Philosophy

The philosophy of the INRMP for 496 ABS is to manage currently identified natural resources and initiate and maintain management procedures that support mission activities. The Morón AB INRMP provides guidelines for the management of activities on base that could potentially impact listed species, including habitat conservation, monitoring, focus studies, and surveys, and all projects analyzed under the EIAP. This philosophy is further summarized as follows:

• Be good stewards of natural resources.

• Manage existing natural resources to maintain current resource levels, and enhance resources in a manner consistent with mission requirements.

• Maintain a “no-net-loss” natural resources management approach if impacts to resources occur due to mission requirements.

• Coordinate all planning efforts with appropriate onsite and offsite entities to ensure the

496 ABS natural resources management practices are compatible with Air Force and host nation requirements.

2.4 Specific Roles and Responsibilities

Because current mission activities have the potential to impact air, land, water, wildlife, and people, a comprehensive USAF-wide management program has been established for implementation at all applicable USAF installations. The USAFE environmental protection program implemented within the Morón AB installation is designed to minimize or eliminate impact to the environment. The program is also designed to monitor environmental impacts resulting from work activities, whether they are operations and maintenance (O&M) or military construction (MILCON) projects.

Effective management of natural resources at Morón AB requires the participation of an interface with several organizations to ensure that all personnel involved in the maintenance and management of the various assets are aware of their roles and responsibilities with regard to the quality of the environment throughout the installation. Senior level responsibilities regarding the United States Air Forces in Europe Headquarters (HQ USAFE) can be referenced via USAFEI 32-7064, Integrated Natural Resources Management, dated 18 November 2014.

2.4.1 Squadron Commander (496 ABS/CC)

The Squadron Commander is ultimately responsible for proper management of the installation’s natural resources and must ensure that an INRMP is developed, implemented, and fully supported, including assigning funds for planning requirements.

Ensures natural resources management is integrated with other installation management activities, as well as with military training and testing activities.

2.4.2 Environmental Safety and Occupation Health Committee

The ESOHC, chaired by the 496 ABS Commander, reviews and approves and ensures the INRMP complies with the FGS-S, USAFEI 32-7064, and AFI 32-7001.

Changes to the plan must be submitted to the ESOHC for approval through the 496 ABS Civil Engineering Natural Resource Management Environmental Office.

Morón AB, Spain 2-11 June 2015

The ESOHC should meet regularly to:

• Ensure a systematic interdisciplinary approach to environmental quality and integrate this approach into planning and decision-making;

• Act as the primary executive steering group for environmental cleanup, compliance, conservation, and pollution prevention;

• Solicit Command support, as required;

• Establish subcommittees, as necessary, to address important issues and programs.

2.4.3 Flight Commander (496 ABS/CE)

The Flight Commander/base civil engineer (BCE) is responsible for the preparation, maintenance, and day-to-day implementation of the INRMP. The BCE is the focal point for all INRMP actions and issues, establishes mechanisms to review and analyze the impact of all proposed actions on the natural environment using EIAP, and makes recommendations based on the analysis to the installation ESOHC for approval or disapproval.

At base level, the civil engineer has the primary responsibility for developing, managing, and implementing the INRMP. This responsibility has been delegated to the 496 ABS/CEIE.

2.4.4 Judge Advocate (86 AW/JA)

The Judge Advocate for the 86th Airlift Wing (AW) at Ramstein AB provides legal assistance and advice to the ESOHC, and advises Public Affairs on information to be released to the public as required.

2.4.5 Director Civil Engineer (496 ABS/DCE)

Needs to be familiar with the content of the INRMP and comply with its provisions.

2.4.6 Environmental (496 ABS/CEIE)

After coordination with the Spanish Base Commander, develop a natural resources management plan. Submit the INRMP to the ESOHC for approval. Conduct a technical review at least every five years and sumbit the updated version, after coordination with the Spanish Base Commander to the EOSHC for approval. Notify the Spanish Base Commander of the discovery of any endangered or threatened species and Spanish protected species not previously known to be present on the installation

Develops and maintains the INRMP and provides technical advice on natural resource matters to base units, boards, and the ESOHC. It is responsible for reviewing work activities at Morón AB to ensure that environmental issues are addressed and the EIAP is being implemented. Review the INRMP annually, or if a major mission changes occurre. The annual review needs to be approved by the ESOHC.

2.4.7 Chief Operations (496 ABS/CEO)

The Chief Operations Officer (CEO) is responsible for identifying any future works that may impact natural resources using the AF Form 332 process.

Morón AB, Spain 2-12 June 2015

The CEO will also support the maintenance and enhancement of protected sites as required, ensuring compliance with the INRMP.

2.4.8 Engineering Element (496 ABS/CEN)

The engineering flight is responsible for ensuring that new works and ongoing maintenance activities do not affect natural resources at the 496 ABS installations and will coordinate all project works with 496 ABS/CEIE. In addition, they will provide electronic mapping (GEOBASE) so that areas of special interest or protection may be mapped, color coded and recorded.

2.5 Natural Resources Management Training Opportunities

The FGS-S requires that natural resources managers are adequately trained. Training opportunities for natural resource managers are available from several sources, which include various government agencies, colleges and universities, and private organizations. In addition, various DoD and civilian environmental conferences offer workshops and training courses, as well as seminars and literature on current topics in natural resources management and research.

Government agencies offer the most comprehensive and cost effective training available.

Training opportunities for DoD personnel can be found on the DoD Natural Resources Conservation Program (NRCP) website: www.dodnaturalresources.net. Under the “Resources” tab, there are many links to policies, guidance, and fact sheets.