Technical_Exhibit_7.5.5.2_Sample_Pest_Management_Plan.docx

Technical Exhibit 7.5.5.2 Sample Pest Management Plan

This attachment contains a sample pest management plan intended to provide insight into the material content, organization, and level of detail associated with an operational plan. Note that this attachment includes only the body of the sample plan. Additional supporting material in the form of eight Appendices are available in electronic format in the technical library , as well as the sample plan body included in this attachment.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

A. SITE. Fort Gordon consists of approximately 56,000 acres located in the northeastern part of Georgia. As part of the Army’s Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Fort Gordon is responsible for training military personnel from all branches of service, including some foreign allied personnel, for the various needs of the defense communications mechanisms. The favorable climate characterized by mild short winters and long warm summers allows year-round training.

B. PERSONNEL APPLICABLE. This plan applies to all activities and individuals working, residing, or otherwise doing business on Fort Gordon. This plan will be implemented to the maximum extent possible. At no time may pest management operations be performed in a manner that will cause harm to personnel or the environment. Non-chemical control efforts will be used to the maximum extent possible before pesticides are used. This plan will be a working document and will be continually updated to reflect actual pest management practices.

C. OVERVIEW OF PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN. The pest management plan for Fort Gordon describes the pest management requirements and outlines the resources necessary for surveillance and control of pests. It also describes the administrative, safety, and environmental requirements of the program. The program involves Department of Defense (DoD) and Georgia certified pesticide applicators; staffs of the Directorate of Public Works (DPW) Environmental Office and Natural Resources, the Preventive Medicine Service, and the Veterinary Activity; building occupants; and facility managers to monitor and control pests. Pests included in the plan are: weeds and other unwanted vegetation; termites; ticks, mosquitoes and other biting insects; vertebrate pests, such as birds, rodents, and snakes; flying and crawling insects; and spiders. These pests can interfere with the military mission, damage real property, increase maintenance costs, lower morale and expose personnel to diseases unless properly controlled.

I. INTRODUCTION.

A. Purpose. This Installation’s Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPMP) is the framework through which the pest management program is defined and accomplished on Fort Gordon. The plan identifies elements of the program to include health and environmental safety, pest identification, pest management, as well as pesticide storage, transportation, use, and disposal. This plan is a tool to reduce the reliance on pesticide usage, to enhance environmental protection, and to maximize the use of integrated pest management (IPM) techniques.

B. Authority.

1. Department of Defense (DoD) Instruction 4150.07, DoD Pest Management Program, 29 May 2008.

2. Army Regulation (AR) 200-1, Environmental Protection and Enhancement, 13 December 2007.

3. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (through PL 100-460, 100-464 to 100-526, and 100-532).

C. Program Objective. This plan provides guidance and requirements for operating and maintaining an effective pest management program. IPM principles are stressed in the plan. Adherence to the plan will help maintain compliance with pertinent laws and regulations. The IPM strategies found in Appendix A will be maximized in order to comply with pesticide reduction on the installation IAW DoDI 4150.07, DoD Pest Management Program, Measure of Merit (MOM) 2. A Data Summary of the Armed Forces Pest Management Board (AFPMB) MOMs can be found at: http://www.afpmb.org/moms/moms.htm.

D. Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM is the judicious use of both chemical and non-chemical control techniques to prevent pests from exceeding an acceptable population level or damage threshold. Emphasis is placed on minimizing environmental disruption that is caused by sole reliance on pesticide applications. IPM depends on surveillance to establish the need for control and to monitor the effectiveness of management efforts. Threshold limits for chemical control (application of pesticides) are contained within each IPM Outline in Appendix A. Pest populations must be monitored prior to conducting pesticide applications unless the U.S. Army Environmental Command (USAEC) designated Pest Management Consultant (PMC) provides prior approval for application of preventive treatments.

1. IPM Principles. The four basic principles described below are the heart of IPM and are descriptive of the philosophy used on Fort Gordon to manage pests. Specific IPM methods can be found in the IPM Outlines in Appendix A. Additional methods can be found in Armed Forces Pest Management Board (AFPMB), Technical Guide (TG) No. 29, "Integrated Pest Management in and Around Buildings". While any one of these methods may solve a specific pest problem, using combined methods typically provide the most effective long-term control.

a. Mechanical/Physical Control. This method involves the use of barriers, devices or manual labor to control pests. Examples of this type of control include: caulking or filling voids to eliminate harborage, mechanical traps or glue boards, installation of screens or other barriers to prevent pest entry into buildings, the application of heat or cold, hoeing to control weeds, and the manual removal of pests by vacuum or by hand. Many pest problems encountered on Fort Gordon can be prevented or solved by using mechanical control techniques.

b. Cultural Control. Strategies in this method involve manipulating environmental conditions to suppress or eliminate pests. Examples of cultural control include: crop rotation, water management, destruction of alternate host plants, sanitation, altering irrigation times. Elimination of food and water for pests through good sanitary practices is the most important cultural control method employed under this plan. General cleanliness in buildings, dining facilities, break rooms, storage areas, etc., may prevent pest populations from becoming established or from increasing in size.

c. Biological Control. This control strategy uses predators, parasites, or disease organisms to control pest populations. In some cases sterile adult insects may be released into the breeding population to lower reproductivity. Biological control only may be effective, but is often combined with other types of control. This control is very pest specific, environmentally sensitive and may not be practical or available for a given pest problem. Pesticide formulations of bacteria are readily available biological control agents for management of caterpillars on plants and immature mosquitoes in aquatic breeding sites.

d. Chemical Control. Chemical Control is the reduction of pest populations or prevention of pest injury by using materials (pesticides) to poison them, attract them to other devices or repel them from specific areas. The use of pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and rodenticides) is often the most simple and effective method of control available. However, pest resistance has reduced the effectiveness of many once commonly used compounds. In recent years, the trend has been to use pesticides that are pest or site specific with little or only limited residual activity. In general, pesticides should be used only after other methods of control have been attempted or considered. Chemical control is most effective when used in combination with mechanical or cultural control.

2. IPM Outlines. IPM Outlines for pest surveillance and control are found in Appendix A. Each major pest or category of pests is addressed in separate outlines. Appendix B provides required information for the Pesticide Use Proposal (PUP) form for this plan and identifies the pesticides used to control the pests found in the IPM Outlines. New outlines will be written if additional pests are encountered which require surveillance and/or control and will be sent to the USAEC designated Pest Management Consultant (PMC) for review and approval and then added to Appendix A. CAUTION: These outlines do not identify all the precautions and directions identified on the pesticide label. Pesticide applicators must be familiar with and follow all precautions and directions on the pesticide label of the pesticide being used. The label is the law!

3. IPM Legal Mandate. Federal agencies (7 USC 136r-1) are mandated by Public Law to use IPM. IPM is a sustainable approach to managing pests by combining biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools in a way that minimizes economic, health, and environmental risks. The installation is committed to IPM at its facilities as the best approach to control pests and reduce pesticide reliance and resistance.

E. Plan Maintenance. The Fort Gordon Installation Pest Management Coordinator (IPMC) maintains this plan. Changes may be made to the plan throughout the fiscal year. Guidance from the USAEC on the submission of minor changes and updating the Plan Update Form (PUF) and PUP is available at: http://aec.army.mil/usaec/pest/guidance01.html and in the USAEC, Army Pest Management Timely Topics, Volume 6, Number 3. This electronic publication and additional Army Pest Management Topics is available at: http://www.afpmb.org/pubs/USAEC/timelytopics.htm.

II. RESPONSIBILITIES.

A. Garrison Commander.

1. Approve, implement and support the Fort Gordon IPMP, (DoD Pest Management MOM 1).

2. Designate on orders an IPMC for all Fort Gordon pest management activities.

3. Support the DoD Pest Management MOM 2 to reduce the amount of pesticides (pounds of active ingredients) applied on the installation when compared to the baseline of FY02 and FY03 average.

4. Ensure that all personnel performing pest management duties receive appropriate training and achieve required pest management certification (DoD Pest Management MOM 3). The Plan Update Form (PUF) at Appendix C lists pest management personnel who are certified (inclusive of categories) to apply pesticides on the installation. Each Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Outline (Appendix A) identifies the certification requirement to perform control for each pest.

5. Ensure that all pest management operations are conducted safely and have minimal impact on the environment.

6. Ensure that adequate funds and staffing are provided and committed to support installation pest management program requirements.

7. Ensure records of pest management operations are maintained IAW current Army guidelines.

B. Directorate of Public Works.

b. Determine Fort Gordon's position and responsibilities in community-wide pest management regarding quarantine and/or vector-borne disease epidemics.

c. Ensure the IPMC is fully trained and DoD certified in the appropriate Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) categories in accordance with the pest management needs of the installation.

d. Incorporate the IPMP in the installation’s Natural Resources Management Plan.

e. Ensure contract and government personnel obtain and maintain adequate supplies of pesticides and pesticide dispersal equipment and that pesticide storage and handling facilities are adequate and properly maintained.

f. Ensure government pesticide applicators receive Hazard Communication; First Responder (Level 1); and Hazardous Waste Handler/Supervisor training.

g. Maintain required records of all pest management operations (surveillance, nonchemical and chemical controls) on a DD Form 1532-1, Pest Management Maintenance Record or computer equivalent. Maintain a separate DD Form 1532-1 (or complete electronic record) for each building or site. Pest management records shall be readily retrievable to review or modify on-going pest control operations.

h. Provide necessary coordination with the installation safety and medical authorities to ensure appropriate personal protective equipment is worn and medical surveillance of government employed pest management personnel is conducted.

2. Installation Pest Management Coordinator (IPMC).

a. Determine the pest management requirements for the installation.

b. Continuously maintain an updated copy of this IPMP by submitting changes following USAEC guidance (See paragraph I E.) for the submission of the IPMP, PUP, PUF, and Out-of-Cycle Pesticide Use Request (OCPUR) form. Annually submit the PUF and PUP to the USAEC PMC for review and approval (DoD Pest Management MOM 1) prior to the suspense date established by the USAEC PMC.

c. Coordinate pest management activities between the installation and higher headquarters.

d. Perform collection and analysis of pest control records for all pesticide applications or services performed on the installation.

(1) Screen records for completeness and accuracy.

e. Monitor pest control contracts on the Installation and recommend modifications as needs arise. Review all proposed pest control contracts on the installation and forward them to the USAEC PMC for review and approval prior to solicitation.

f. Monitor certification (all) and training (government staff) requirements for pesticide applicators and other personnel providing pest management support, such as pest surveillance and pest management contract oversight, (DoD Pest Management MOM 3.) Appendix C provides a copy of the current PUF listing of pest management personnel, their certification numbers, categories of pest control certified to perform, and certification expiration dates.

g. Maintain information resources of the following:

(1) Pest Control Contracts: copies of each contract, the list of pesticides and methods approved for use, the product labels and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), the applicator names and certification documents, and appropriate contractor’s Pesticide Business License(s) with categories of pest control the company is licensed and insured to perform.

(2) Pesticide inventories maintained in the installation’s pesticide storage facilities (DPW and the Fort Gordon Lakes Golf Course).

(3) Copy of each pesticide label and its corresponding MSDS for all pesticides and other hazardous materials used in the installation’s Pest Management Program. Appendix B provides a copy of the current PUP listing all pesticides to control the pests identified in the IPM Outlines at Appendix A.

(4) Reference collection of publications related to pesticides, entomology and pest management; and pest control/pesticide laws and regulations (Appendix D).

(5) Current records of all certified pesticide applicators and all applicable Georgia Pesticide Business License’s for each commercial company engaged in applying pesticides (Appendix C).

h. When required, prepare an Aerial Spray Statement of Need (ASSON) (i.e., for emergency or other services), which are not addressed in the IPMP.

i. Comply with and notify the USAEC PMC of additional documentation, coordination, and project approval requirements when the Installation participates in regional or other aerial application projects sponsored by non-DoD governmental agencies.

j. Answer inquires concerning pest management from the installation commander, other installation officials, Installation Management Command (IMCOM) and the Department of the Army (DA).

k. Identify and address findings of adverse occupational health and safety reports in annual updates to the installation’s IPMP.

l. Coordinate with local and State (Appendix E), and Federal agencies (Appendix F), as necessary, to conduct the installation’s pest management program.

m. Notify the USAEC PMC of all proposed visits and findings by representatives of non-DA governmental agencies when such visits and findings involve pesticide storage and handling, pest quarantine, environmental, or health and safety issues associated with pesticides or pest management.

n. Maintain records of pesticide disposal in accordance with state and DoD procedures.

o. Monitor the use, sale and distribution of pesticides on Fort Gordon.

p. Coordinate and monitor the procurements of pest control services using Government Purchase Cards (GPC). See Appendix G.

C. Director of Community Activities (DCA).

1. Supervise and direct Fort Gordon Lakes Golf Course pest management operations.

2. Obtain and maintain adequate supplies of pesticides and pesticide dispersal equipment, and ensure that pesticide storage and handling facilities are adequate and properly maintained at the Fort Gordon Lakes Golf Course.

3. Ensure that Fort Gordon Lakes Golf Course personnel performing pest control receive adequate training, and achieve the required DoD Pest Management Certification. Additionally, ensure pesticide applicators receive Hazard Communication; First Responder (Level 1); and Hazardous Waste Handler/Supervisor training.

4. Maintain required records of golf course pest management operations on a daily Pest Management Maintenance Record, DD Form 1532-1 or an electronic equivalent. Monthly, report all pest management operations on a DD Form 1532, Pest Management Report, or an electronic equivalent to the IPMC.

5. Provide necessary coordination with the Installation Safety Office and medical authority to ensure appropriate personal protective equipment is worn and medical surveillance of Fort Gordon Lakes Golf Course pest management personnel (NAF employees) is conducted.

D. Preventive Medicine Service, Dwight David Eisenhower Army Medical Center (DDEAMC). External organizations may be called upon for assistance. Organizations may include, but not restricted to, the State Department of Health, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service, the Centers for Disease and Prevention Control (CDC), and the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine-South (USACHPPM-South) at Fort Sam Houston, TX.

1. Conduct surveillance for mosquitoes, ticks, and cockroaches and pests, which could adversely affect the health and welfare of the Fort Gordon Community. Coordinate surveillance results (positive or negative) with the IPMC immediately upon completion of any pest survey for appropriate action. Monthly, report to the IPMC all pest surveillance activities on a DD Form 1532, Pest Management Report or an electronic equivalent.

2. Coordinate with local health officials to determine the prevalence of disease vectors and other public health pests in the area surrounding the installation (Appendix E).

3. Evaluate and monitor the health aspects of the pest management program.

4. Modify threshold limits for the application of pesticides, as necessary, to control medically important pests and to meet the needs of Fort Gordon (See IPM Outlines, Appendix A).

5. Monitor the ventilation systems of pesticide storage/mixing buildings.

6. Perform medical surveillance of government employees whose duties require the application of pesticides.

7. Provide pest identification support to installation personnel involved with pest management. Submit specimens, as necessary, for identification and/or disease testing to USACHPPM-South, ATTN: Entomological Sciences Division, 2472 Schofield Road, 2D Floor, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-6233.

8. Annually prior to 1 October, report the pest management certification status (certification categories and expiration dates) of Environmental Health Section personnel to the IPMC. Ensure personnel who conduct pest surveillance activities have and maintain appropriate DoD Pest Management Certifications (Appendix C).

E. Fort Gordon Veterinary Section, Southeast Regional Veterinary Command.

1. Conduct surveillance for pests, which destroy or contaminate food, stored in installation facilities.

2. Provide advice to pet owners concerning pests, which may adversely affect the health of their animals.

3. Participate in the final disposition of vertebrate animals captured or collected on Fort Gordon to include appropriate actions for submitting specimens for disease analysis.

4. Monthly, report all pest surveillance activities on a DD Form 1532, Pest Management Report or an electronic equivalent, to the IPMC.

F. Tenant Units and Installation Personnel.

3. Use all nonchemical and chemical pest control techniques available through the Self-Help program to the fullest extent possible before requesting assistance from the DPW Pest Control contractor.

4. Cooperate fully with pest management personnel in scheduling pest management operations to include preparing the areas to be treated.

5. Do not contract for pest control services without written authorization from the IPMC. See Appendix G for the use of government purchase cards to obtain pesticides or pest control services.

6. Application of pesticides (insecticides, fungicides, herbicides or rodenticides) to common-use areas is prohibited by non-certified pesticide applicators. However, the application of a general-use pesticide is permitted in and around family quarters, when the application is made by the person actually residing within those quarters for the purpose of personal relief. Fort Gordon housing is in the Residential Communities Initiative (RCI) program and commercial pest control services are available to family housing members.

G. Unit Commanders/ Officer-In-Charge.

1. Ensure the proper use of the DoD repellent system and other personal protective measures while personnel are exposed to potential disease vectors. (Appendix H).

2. AR 40-5 Preventive Medicine, requires each company, troop, or battery size unit to appoint a field sanitation team (FST) and its implementation is described in DA PAM 40-11. Ensure FST members are trained and properly equipped IAW AR 40-5 and fully mission capable prior to deployment (FM 21-10-1). Personnel may also refer to the AFPMB TG No. 24, Contingency Pest Management Guide and the most current AFPMB Contingency Pesticide List at: www.afpmb.org/forums/archive/index.php?t-30.html. The AFPMB Contingency Officer can be reached via e-mail at: afpmb-webmaster@osd.mil.

3. Do not permit non-certified pesticide applicators (soldiers) to apply pesticides (including herbicides) to unit common areas. Coordinate all unit pest management requirements with the IPMC. Do not contract for pest control services without IPMC approval. See Appendix G for the use of government purchase cards to obtain pesticides or pest control services.

H. Pest Management Personnel.

1. Meet all training and certification requirements of the DoDM 4150.07-M-V1, DoD Pest Management Training: Plan for the Certification of Pesticide Applicators. A copy of this publication is available at: http://www.afpmb.org/pubs/dir_inst/dir_inst.htm. This applies to all personnel engaged in pest management operations. Georgia pesticide applicator certification is required for all contract personnel engaged in pesticide application on Fort Gordon property. Non-certified pest control personnel are prohibited from applying pesticides on the installation, except those approved for use from the Haz Mat Pharmacy or general use pesticides available at the Post Exchange or Commissary for use in and around personal quarters. Any contractor engaged in applying pesticides shall have a Georgia Pesticide Business License and each applicator shall be certified in the category of pesticide application so engaged. Categories of pest control certification include:

DoD Georgia Description

2. Use nonchemical IPM techniques to the maximum extent possible. Select control strategies and pesticides that assist the Installation in meeting its pesticide usage minimization goal per DoD Pest Management MOM 2.

3. Control pests according to the provisions outlined in this plan (Appendix A). Do not apply pesticides in a routine, scheduled or preventive manner, unless specified in this plan. Base pesticide applications upon current surveillance results and when pest populations exceed established minimum threshold limits for chemical control, unless historical data supports the need for a preventive pesticide application.

4. Operate in a manner that minimizes risk of contamination to the environment and personnel.

5. Apply only those pesticides specified in this plan (Appendix B). Ensure that superiors are kept informed of changes in pest management requirements. Submit a completed Out-of-Cycle Pesticide Use Request (OCPUR) Form (Appendix I) to the IPMC to request USAEC PMC approval prior to procurement and application of any non-approved pesticide that is not currently listed in Appendices A and B.

6. Obtain and maintain supplies of pesticides in a manner that minimizes the need to dispose of excess/unserviceable pesticides. Ensure all pesticide application equipment is properly maintained and calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions. Annually obtain droplet analysis and calibration of ultra low volume (ULV) pesticide dispersal equipment. Calibration may be necessary more frequently if any major component of equipment is repaired or replaced; or the pesticide used for ULV operations is changed.

7. Maintain effective liaison with installation health and environmental officials.

8. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment during pest management operations.

9. Provide written records of pest surveillance and control efforts to the IPMC. See Appendix J, Pest Management Record Keeping, for the information required.

10. Store pesticides only in an approved pesticide storage facility.

11. Follow current USAEC and U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine (USACHPPM) guidance for application of pesticides in and around schools and child development centers: http://aec.army.mil/usaec/pest/ipmguide.pdf.

I. Quality Assurance Evaluators (QAE) of Pest Management Contracts (As Needed).

1. Obtain QAE pest management training in accordance with DoD Instruction (DoDI) 4150.07 in the appropriate pest categories, unless a DoD certified pesticide applicator is available to assist the QAE.

2. Evaluate contract pest management operations to ensure contract specifications and quality standards are met (Appendix A).

3. Evaluate the functions and tasks of contract pest controllers while in progress to determine if effective pest management is being obtained.

4. Inform the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) and IPMC about: specifications that require modification or improvement; any discrepancies in contractor performance; and any action by the contractor that may jeopardize health, safety, or the environment.

5. Provide the IPMC records of all pest management quality assurance work monthly or as otherwise required by the IPMC.

6. Monitor type, concentration, and method of application of pesticides used by contractors.

J. Directorate of Contracting: Contracting Officers' Representative (COR) for Pest Management Contracts.

1. Oversee contract pest management operations to ensure contract specifications are met.

2. Ensure that pest management contract specifications are based upon specific IPM procedures detailed in this plan (Appendix A). Ensure the USAEC PMC reviews and approves the technical provisions of the pest management performance work statement prior to solicitation.

3. Modify pest management contract specifications (in coordination with the IPMC and QAE) if they do not incorporate the latest, most effective and or least toxic IPM methodologies. Submit contract modifications related to pest management to the USAEC PMC for review and approval.

III. PRIORITY OF PEST MANAGEMENT. Priorities of pest control operations will be in the order shown below:

A. Disease Vectors and Public Health Pests. These are insects or other animals that are capable of transmitting organisms that cause disease, or which may themselves cause injury to people or their animals.

1. One of the major medical pests found at Fort Gordon is the German cockroach. Cockroaches which become occasional pests are the American, Oriental, Australian, Smokybrown, and Brown-banded. Sanitation is the key to cockroach control and all efforts are made to educate individuals of this fact. Conditions conductive to cockroach infestations are identified and the responsible individuals for correction are informed. Insect proofing will be performed on a time available basis and harborage will be eliminated when possible (i.e., caulking and sealing up holes, cracks and crevices; leaking pipes, large holes in walls and screens, sealing paint and other maintenance problems which cause pest problems will be noted for future correction.) Cockroach control will be maintained by the judicious application of various baits and chemicals in conjunction with sanitation and exclusion practices.

2. Mosquitoes are a major pest at Fort Gordon. Most mosquito problems occur on Fort Gordon from March to October. Mosquitoes not only can reduce personnel efficiency due to the annoyance of their biting but also may serve as disease vectors for diseases such as Easteren equine encephalitis (EEE), West Nile virus (WNv) and LaCrosse encephalitis (LAC).

a. Mosquito breeding sites (e.g. artificial containers, small temporary pools of water, wetland areas) are located on Fort Gordon as well as the surrounding adjacent properties. Mosquito control mainly consists of fogging, adult resting site treatments, larvacide applications, and personal protection (e.g. repellents). The southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, is considered the primary vector of WNv in the southeastern United States. They breed in sites rich in organic matter and frequently prefer catch-basins of a storm-water drainage system. These mosquitoes primarily feed on birds, high in tree canopies, therefore difficult to control using normal ground fogging techniques.

b. Genera of mosquitoes found on Fort Gordon include Aedes, Culex and Anopheles. There is also a local county (Richmond) mosquito abatement program that is adjacent to the Installation. A list of the mosquitoes found in Georgia and other mosquito-related information can be found at: http://www.gamosquito.org/mosquito.htm.

3. Ticks may transmit disease organisms on Fort Gordon. Tick-borne diseases include: Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, human ehrlichiosis, tularemia and Southern tick associated rash illness (STARI). Rocky Mountain spotted fever is the most important tick-borne disease that occurs in Georgia. Tick paralysis can occur from bites but its occurrence is rare.

4. Spiders.

a. Brown recluse spiders are found in Georgia although very rarely at Fort Gordon. The spiders are generally active at night. During the day they rest in undisturbed, dark, sheltered areas such as under rocks, woodpiles and bark. They are frequently found in corners and crevices of buildings. The brown recluse normally bites when pressure is applied to it. Painful bites can cause restlessness and fevers. The healing of bites may take several weeks to months. Because other medical illness such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can be misdiagnosed as “spider bites”, spider control should be based upon surveillance with capture and identification of spider specimen.

b. Black widow spiders are common in Georgia and frequent undisturbed places in warehouses, storage areas, fixed firing positions, and range and recreational structures. These spiders may produce painful bites as well as toxic reactions that can become severe.

5. Fire ants are common on Fort Gordon. Their venomous sting may cause an allergic reaction in hypersensitive individuals and/or lead to secondary infections. Fire ants may also have a detrimental impact on endangered or threatened species. Control operations include baiting areas, broadcast residual treatments, and individual mound treatments.

6. Bees and wasps are found throughout the installation. Envenomization from stings of bees, hornets, yellow jackets, and wasps may produce allergic reactions in some individuals.

7. Skunks, raccoons, bat, foxes, stray cats and dogs not only can become a nuisance but they may be infected with rabies. Since these animals may be found in or under buildings, the disease potential should be recognized.

8. Scorpions may be found in and around buildings, particularly in those parts of the installation, which tend to remain dry. Like the black widow spider, they are usually encountered in undisturbed areas. They are poisonous, but stings cause few serious consequences.

9. The copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix), cottonmouth or water moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivores), the coral snake (Micrurus fulvius), eastern diamondback (Crotalus adamanteus), and the timber or canebreak rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) are poisonous snakes found in Georgia. Although rarely encountered, these snakes are capable of causing serious illness or death. A variety of nonpoisonous snakes are also found in the State; although non-venomous, their bites may be painful and could lead to secondary infection. Snakes from unwanted areas are captured alive and relocated to other areas away from ongoing activities. Removal and relocation of snakes found in unwanted areas (e.g., under buildings) is occasionally required.

B. Quarantine Pests. There are no quarantine pests known to occur on Fort Gordon. If any quarantine pest is suspected, the IPMC should be notified. The IPMC will inform the USAEC PMC and ultimately the U.S. Department of Agriculture should be notified.

C. Pests of Real Property.

1. Subterranean and Formosan termites are found in Georgia and may cause substantial damage. Structures made of materials, which contain cellulose, will be inspected annually or at a minimum of every other year for termites or termite damage. See Appendix K for the Termite & Inspection Treatment Form.

2. Carpenter ants and other wood-destroying insects may infest and damage wooden structures. In areas with high moisture, wood-destroying fungi is a potential problem.

3. Birds and bats roost in warehouses, maintenance and other buildings and may damage equipment and supplies with their droppings. Birds requiring control may include the starling, house sparrow, and pigeon. Canada geese can be a problem on Fort Gordon where they defecate on sidewalks and golf course turf. Canada goose control will follow guidance provided by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (Appendix L).

4. Squirrels, rats and mice are also capable of infesting and damaging structures.

D. Stored Food Product Pests. Food items located in dining facilities, kitchens, or in food storage facilities may become infested by stored food product pests. Most susceptible items are rotated, moved, and consumed before infestations occur. The Installation Veterinary Food Inspection personnel should be contacted whenever suspect food items are discovered in warehouse or distribution facilities. Infested food at the consumer level should be considered for disposal. The most common stored food product pests include beetles, moths, and rodents.

E. Invasive Plants and Noxious Weeds.

1. Executive Order 13112. Invasive plants are introduced species that have few, if any, natural controls and spread out of control. Presidential Executive Order 13112 signed 3 Feb 99, requires that each Federal agency shall "prevent the introduction of invasive species", "detect and respond rapidly to and control populations of such species in a cost-effective and environmentally sound manner", and "provide for restoration of native species and habitat conditions in ecosystems that have been invaded." It also requires agencies to "conduct research on invasive species and to develop technologies to prevent introduction and to provide for environmentally sound control of invasive species" and to "not authorize, fund, or carry out actions that it believes are likely to cause or promote the introduction or spread of invasive species in the United States or elsewhere unless, pursuant to guidelines that it has prescribed, the agency has determined and made public its determination that the benefits of such actions clearly outweigh the potential harm caused by invasive species; and that all feasible and prudent measures to minimize risk of harm will be taken in conjunction with the actions." The following criteria are necessary to the resolution of this requirement:

a. Comprehensive survey of the occurrence of incipient populations of alien invasive species at Army Installations to be targeted for immediate eradication.

b. Comprehensive survey of the occurrence of alien invasive species at Army installations with training, environmental and prevention control implications to facilitate an effective cost/benefit analysis for Army planners.

c. Identify transportation and other pathways by which alien invasive species enter and exit an installation.

d. Research impacts on alien invasive species of Army training site ecosystem management, to include prescribed burning and re-vegetation with native species that supports or is compatible with the Army military mission.

e. Research extent of direct impact of alien invasive species such as musk thistle or kudzu on military training mission and readiness and Soldier health and safety.

f. Development and demonstration of targeted application of pesticides such as glyphosate to alien invasive species to avoid non-target organisms and comply with both Executive Order 13112 requiring invasive species control and Executive Order 12856 requiring reduction in pesticide usage.

g. Convert information on management techniques, distribution, life histories, invasive characteristics, public education, and human health impacts of invasive species from the Federal Native Plant Conservation Initiative fact sheets and other sources, to the standard pest management outlines designed by USAEC and used in this plan.

h. A complete list of environmental laws, rules and regulations concerning invasive species is found at the invasive species website of the USDA: http://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/laws/publiclaws.shtml.

2. Invasive Species on Fort Gordon. Over 7 million acres of land throughout the southeast are infested with the invasive plant known as kudzu, Pueraria montana var. lobata. On Fort Gordon, kudzu is common although it does not interfere with the mission of Fort Gordon. Refer to Appendix A, which provides recommendations for controlling kudzu on Fort Gordon. The tropical soda apple (TSA), Solanum viarum, is a perennial shrub that is native to Brazil and Argentina, but has become widespread in Florida and in some other parts of the southeast. In 1998, TSA was found and reported at 21 sites in Georgia. The primary means of dispersal is by the inter-state movement of livestock that have recently fed on the TSA. However, contaminated equipment, hay, seeds, composted manure, and sod may also serve as a means of dispersal. Mature plants of the TSA are 3 to 6 ft. tall and are armed on the leaves, stems, pedicles, petioles, and calyxes with broad-based white to yellowish thorn-like prickles up to 3/4 inch long. Leaves and stems are pubescent; flowers are white with five recurved petals and white to cream-colored stamens that surround the single pistil. The TSA spreads rapidly and there is reason to believe that the plant can be found on Fort Gordon property. Contact USDA-APHIS for questions concerning the presence of this invasive plant on Fort Gordon. There are other invasive plants found in Georgia, but their distribution is very limited in Georgia and not a high priority.

3. Georgia Invasive Species Strategy. The final draft of the Georgia Invasive Species Strategy was completed in January 2009. This document was completed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Wildlife Resources Division and the Georgia Invasive Species Advisory Committee. This document can be found at http://georgiawildlife.dnr.state.ga.us/conservation.aspsx and identifies invasive species found in Georgia and the framework for invasive species management in Georgia.

4. Noxious Weeds. The list of federally regulated noxious weeds can be found at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/plant_pest_info/weeds/downloads/weedlist2006.pdf. Georgia currently does not have a state noxious week list or law. The Federal Noxious Weed Act prohibits the interstate movement of the identified noxious weeds. The list and regulations are updated on a regular basis, additional information and the most current updates can be found at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/.

5. Ecosystem Management. The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense issued a memorandum requiring the implementation of Ecosystem management in the Department of Defense (Memorandum, DUSD, (ES/EQ-C), 8 August 1994, subject: Implementation of Ecosystem Management in the DoD. Ecosystem management is elaborated in DoD Instruction 4715.3, and the DoD Commander's Guide to Biodiversity and Handbook for Natural Resources Managers. Special attention should be paid to prescribed burns to mimic natural burn patterns that restore the indigenous ecosystem and control noxious weeds

F. Other Undesirable Vegetation. Weeds on firing ranges, around targets, along fence lines, on road shoulders, paved surfaces require control using appropriate herbicides. Herbicides should be applied directly to weeds to protect desirable vegetation and reduce contamination of natural resources. Some control of unwanted plants is done mechanically (mowing, string trimmers) or by using mulch materials around ornamental plants. Selective vegetation control may be required for pine planting site preparation or for pine release programs of forested areas. Prescribed burns should mimic natural mosaic pattern, intensity, periodicity, and re-vegetation with native species that helps to control noxious weeds. Executive Memorandum (26 April 1996, Clinton) directs federal executive departments and agencies to use regionally native plants for landscaping of federal grounds and federally funded projects. The use of native plants protects natural heritage and provides wildlife habitat. Native plant restoration may reduce the need for fertilizer, pesticides, and irrigation requirements because native plants are best suited to the local ecosystem.

G. Vertebrate Animal Pests.

1. Mice and rats occasionally invade buildings. Primary management techniques for controlling these rodents are exclusion and sanitation. Snap traps and glue boards are the main method used for controlling rodent infestations indoors. Rodenticides may be used provided they are deployed in tamper/child proof bait stations

2. Beaver, skunk, raccoon, squirrels, and opossums have periodically required control. Control efforts these or other regulated wildlife species such as deer will be coordinated with the IPMC, installation Natural Resource personnel, Game Warden office, and Georgia Department of Natural Resources. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources requires a special permit for the control of nuisance wildlife. Information about these permits and other related subject material is at Appendix L and is also available at: http://georgiawildlife.dnr.state.ga.us/Assets/Documents/Nuisance_Wildlife_Control_Permit_Application.pdf. Additional assistance may be obtained if necessary from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal, Plant, Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Wildlife Services. The local U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will be contacted to coordinate efforts to control federally protected species.

3. Stray dogs and cats occasionally need to be captured on Fort Gordon. Pest control personnel and the Military Police are responsible for the control of stray or wild animals. Refer to AFPMB TG No. 37, Guidelines for Reducing Feral Cat Populations for additional guidance.

4. Starlings, house sparrows, and pigeons (non-protected species) and bats are occasional pests in and around buildings. They represent a general nuisance for building occupants and can contaminate stored materials and floors with their fecal droppings. Bird droppings can pose a health threat. Because a disinfectant should be used to neutralize the disease threat, the treated fecal dropping waste material from clean-up operations can be an environmentally sensitive issue. Canada geese periodically require control from Gordon Lakes Golf Course. See Appendix L for information for following Georgia Department of Natural Resources requirements for Canada goose control.

5. Snakes rarely require control on Fort Gordon. Captured snakes are released unharmed in the more remote areas of the installation.

H. Household and Nuisance Pests. Rodents, crawling insects (such as ants, cockroaches and spiders) may require control in office, billeting, food service facilities, warehouses, and other administrative buildings. Proper sanitation and physical exclusion are emphasized to discourage these pests.

I. Ornamental Plant and Turf Pests. Various insect pests causing damage to plants can infest trees and shrubs. Examples of these pests include the southern pine beetle, white grubs, webworms, and tent caterpillars. Turf pests include various insects and turf diseases. The Fort Gordon golf course has a very active and aggressive pest management program to protect the turf of its tees, greens and fairways. Separate IPM Outlines (Appendix A) have been developed to address pest management practices of the golf course. These IPM Outlines include turf diseases, turf arthropod/insect pests and turf weeds.

J. Other Pest Management Requirements. Pest management technicians, maintenance personnel and the military police are responsible for carcass removal. In addition, the pest management technicians may provide services for odor control in buildings and other structures. Odors may arise from dead animals, decaying vegetation, molds, fungi, or from other sources.

IV. CONSERVATION PRACTICES FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES.

A. The Endangered Species Act requires EPA to regulate pesticides in such a way as to protect endangered species. Fort Gordon has successfully re-introduced the red cockaded woodpecker onto the installation. Introduction of this endangered species requires unique vegetation control practices to remove most of the understory to create a savannah type ecosystem.

B. EPA's endangered species pesticide program requires pesticide applicators to be aware of information not on pesticide labels about endangered species requirements. Special considerations must be taken when using pest control tactics in areas where endangered species are found.

C. AR 200-1, Chapter 4-3, requires personnel to deal with endangered and threatened species, and candidate, proposed, and state protected species as though they were endangered.

D. See http//www.fws.gov/athens/pdf/GA_Endangered_Species_Fact_Sheet_40104.pdf and http://www.endangeredspecie.com/states/ga.htm for the list of Federal and State or candidate endangered species listed in Georgia. These lists change frequently as species are added or removed. For further information contact the Georgia Natural Heritage Program at (770) 918-6411 or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at (404) 679-7319. Refer to particular pest management outlines in Appendix A for special environmental considerations.

V. HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS.

A. Medical Surveillance of Pest Management Personnel. All Fort Gordon government personnel who apply pesticides should participate in a medical surveillance program for pesticide applicators. Regulatory guidance for this is found in AR 40-5 and with guidance published in DA Pam 40-11. A medical surveillance program should consist of the following elements:

1. An initial physical examination will be conducted to establish that the individual is physically capable of wearing a respirator (if required) and to establish a baseline red blood cell (RBC) cholinesterase level. This physical examination also includes liver and kidney function tests, a complete blood count, and a respiratory evaluation. A physical examination of the same scope as the initial examination is conducted annually.

2. When cholinesterase-inhibiting substances (CIS) (i.e., carbamate or organophosphate insecticides) are applied by employees on a regular basis, the RBC cholinesterase level will be monitored at least twice a year (before and mid-season during the time of heaviest pesticide usage).

3. Annually, the air in the pesticide applicator’s breathing zone should be sampled by an Industrial Hygienist to evaluate potential pesticide exposures to pesticide applicators.

4. DoD personnel who handle or otherwise come into contact with wild mammals on Fort Gordon are candidates to receive rabies prophylaxis at the discretion of the Installation Medical Authority.

5. Any contract pest control personnel performing pest management services are responsible for receiving their own medical examinations and rabies prophylaxis from private sources at their expense. Pest control contractors shall observe all safety precautions throughout the performance of their contract, and shall assume full responsibility and liability for compliance will all applicable regulations pertaining to the health and…