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Home My WebLink About06-15W NRCS Forest Plan Project RECEIVED SEP 0 '1 201 1) TOWN OF SOUTH WINDSOR SOUTH WINDSOR PLANNING DEPT, INLAND WETLANDS,WATERCOURSES AND CONSERVATION APPLICATION Application# Date Received INSTRUCTIONS 1. Fifteen applications (15) with map and plans (2 copies) shall be submitted together with the fee set forth in the Inland Wetlands, Watercourses and Conservation Regulations, Town of South Windsor. (See Regulations, Section VII—X) 2. The South Windsor Inland Wetlands, Watercourses and Conservation Regulations should be reviewed with respect to the standards and criteria for application Evaluation. (See Regulations, Sections VII—X) 3. The applicant understands that this application is to be considered complete only when all information and documents required by the Agency have been submitted. The applicant shall also complete the state filing form. A. Applicant's Name: Deborah & K. Chris Denfeld Address: 643 Strong Road, South Windsor, CT 06074 Phone: (home)860-205-9368 (work)860-680-6811 (fax) B. Legal owner's name: same Address Phone(home) (work) (fax) (List additional owners, addresses,and phone numbers on back of application) C. If the applicant is not the owner of the subject property; a letter by the owner(s) authorizing the proposed regulated activity set forth in the application must accompany this form and will be part of the application. D. Project Name and Location Implementation of NRCS Forest Plan Project 1. Contact Person(if further information is needed) Adam Maikshilo, Soil Conservationist, USDA-NRCS(work)860-688-7725 x-177 K) 855-947-1611 E. The geographical location of the property which is to be affected by the proposed regulated activities including a description of the land in sufficient detail to allow identification of the property on the Inland Wetland and Watercourse Map. Assessor's map# 86 Parcel# 8 Zone RR r F. Names of all abutting property owners from records in Town Clerk's office. (use separate sheet if necessary) See Attachment B for list of abutting property owners G. Have you notified all abutting property owners (from records in Town Clerk's office)by certified letter that an application is pending before the Agency? ** (you are required to supply a copy of the letter with the list of the names of the abutters).** H. Purpose and description of all proposed regulated activity(s) including amount of disturbance in square feet and types of fill and the time element involved: Implementation of a site specific Forest Management Plan, developed with the NRCS in Maintaining a healthy forest that can provide diverse wildlife habitat, recreational access and _ opportunities, white maintaining water quality and soil integrity: See Attachment A (Narrative)for additional information L A class A-2 map of the property drawn to l"=40', showing the area to be developed, extent of the wetlands and watercourses affected,topography, existing and proposed activities and names and locations of adjacent property owners must be submitted. J. Amount of regulated area disturbance and types of rill (including wetlands and 80 foot Upland Review Area). No filling K. Acreage of wetlands and watercourses in regulated areas to be altered: No wetlands alteration; landing and forest trails L. Acreage of wetlands and watercourses to be created: (1820 ft), selective tree removal over 10 acres (from a basal area of—95 to a basal area of—65), M. Lineal feet of proposed stream alteration: establishment of natural wildlife shelters (8 ea.) and restoration of trails with natural re-vegetation. N. Total land area of project and percentage, which is wetlands: Of the 10.0 acres with selective tree removaa, approximately 7.5 acres shows a wetlands soil type. O. Identify all other permits or approvals that have been issued, applied for, or required with respect to the proposed activity set forth in this application. (These may include but not be limited to, local Planning & Zoning, Zoning Board of Appeals, D.E.P., F.E.M.A., D.O.T., The Army Corps of Engineers, and any other State,Local or Federal Permits.)_ DEEP Natural Diversity Data Base Review, Town Wetlands Mapping P. The applicant (or designated representative) hereby attests that a sign will be posted at the following locations)_In the vicinity of the proposed project access on Strong Road By Owner Name D. Denfeld on or before the following date Late summer/fall 2016 at least 10 days before scheduled Meeting 8 with South Windsor IWA/CC Signature: These signs must be displayed continuously for at least ten (10) days prior to scheduled meeting (see Regulations, Section 7.3a) The undersigned hereby applies for the regulated activities listed in paragraph H above, for an Inland Wetlands, Watercourses and Conservation permit for the property described herein and confirms that: l. She/he is familiar with the currently effective Inland Wetlands, Watercourses and Conservation Regulations of the Town of South Windsor. 2. She/he understands that at any time during the review period, the Agency may require the applicant to provide more information about the wetlands and/or watercourses in question and/or any proposed activity. 3. All information submitted in the application for review shall be considered factual, or in the case of anticipated activity, binding. A knowing failure of the applicant or any of her/his agents to provide correct information, or performance exceeding the levels of activity anticipated, shall be sufficient grounds for revocation of any permit under these regulations. 4. By making this application, the applicant gives permission to the Inland Wetlands, Watercourses and Conservation Commission members and/or its representative to enter the portions of the premises which are subject of the application for the purpose of inspection and investigation and otherwise evaluating the merits of the application both before and after a final decision has been issued. f Signature of Owner of Property Date l, L S Signature of Applicant Date • rt 9 ` South Windsor Inland Wetlands Application Narrative September 1,2016 Attachment A Narrative Inland Wetlands,Watercourses and Conservation Application 643 Strong Road,South Windsor Objective: Forest Stand Improvement(under the USDA-NRCS Conservation Program) Executive Summary: • Developed a Forest Management Plan approved by the USDA-NRCS • Implement Forest Stand Improvement • Encourage growth of mast trees (nuts,seeds,buds,or fruits of trees and shrubs eaten by wildlife),by controlling competition through a crown release (managed tree thinning) • Enhance tree vigor and encourage regeneration of desirable species in a 9-acre and 1.1-acre areas • Construct forest trails (no cut/fill) and a landing to provide access to gently sloping forested tract • Remove forest product for resale/reuse as appropriate • Construct`Connecticut Wildlife Brush Piles (649)'to provide cover for wildlife Forest Management Plan (June 5,2015) Revised with Conservation Plan Detail—Forest Trails (3/10/2016) (NRCS Accepted), Prepared by Eric Hansen(Forester),Ferrucci and Walicki,LLC—based on a detailed site inventory Practices suggested meet the NRCS standard and specifications USDA Conservation Plan (3/11/2016) Prepared by Adam Maikshiko (Soil Conservationist) USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service Requires a check-out certification and record of completion Professional Involvement: 1. Forest Trails layout and marking of tress to be removed will be completed by a Certified Forester 2. Tree removal and wildlife brush piles construction will be completed by a Certified Forest Harvester Supervisor Property will be managed(over the next 10 years)to: 1. This project does not include • Improve timber quality and forest health cutting or filling,topsoil • Maintain and enhance a diverse wildlife habitat for a variety of species removal or drainage ways. • Protect water quality and soil integrity 2. Work to remove select tress will • Help maintain balanced and properly functioning ecosystem be conducted on the existing • Improve recreation experiences and access surface,during frozen ground • Maintain aesthetic qualities conditions. Stumps to remain 3. A less than two week time period is anticipated for project completion. - Denfeld-643 Strong Road,South Windsor,CT — - South Windsor Inland Wetlands Application Narrative —_ - -_-- -- September 1,2016_-- -- --------- Property is 16.87 acres-Project is located on 10 acres (east area) of flat/gently sloping tree covered surface,consisting of 75%wetland soils (sandy/muck),no standing water. Prevent transport ofinvasive plant species. • Forestry equipment cleaned prior to use on the site • No seeding of disturbed areas,allow natural re-vegetation Protection of Wildlife of Concern: • Endangered bats: No cutting between June 1 and July 31 • Nesting Migratory Birds: No cutting between April 15 and August 1 Enhance Rare Plant Growth: • Some rare plants (Barratt's sedge,rough aster,climbing fern)will benefit from additional sunlight Protection ofSenshive Soils. • All cutting to occur in winter month when ground is frozen. • (If winter is unseasonably warm and ground does no freeze,follow BMPs to allow for planned cutting while minimizing impact to natural resources.) • Use equipment fitted with low ground pressure tires or tracks • Use slash or woody residue to stabilize forest trails across the site. Generate revenue through sale offorest products • to help offset carrying costs of the property management Crop/Mast Tree Release: (Field 2) • Mast trees released from competition through a crown release,on 3-4 sides • Unacceptable growing stock will be culled,saving on increased growth of healthy crop or mast trees. • Wildlife habitat to be maintained through retention of large woody debris and snags as important habitat elements. Details: (This stand adds diversity to the property) • Enhance tree vigor,encourage regeneration of desirable Mast is the botanical name for the nuts,seeds,buds, species or fruits of trees and shrubs that are eaten by s P wildlife. There are two main types of mast: • Minimal tree cutting(not a large scale operation) • Hard mast includes hard nuts and seeds • Crop and mast tree release maintain healthy,vigorous trees such as acorns,hickory nuts,and walnuts. • Release 5-10 trees,if feasible. (Non-commercial) • Soft mast includes berries and fruits such • Retain snags and cavity trees;where possible;where safe. as crabQ12les,blueberries, O&M: and serviceberries. • Periodic inspections for achieving objects and minimized res Both types are important year-round food sources • On-going management activities for wildlife,but hard mast is often considered more important,especially as a winter food source,due to • Invasive plant control its higher energy content. • Erosion during and after implementation of the practice --- Denfeld-643 Strong Road,South Windsor,CT -- — South Windsor Inland Wetlands Application Narrative September 1,2016 Crop/Mast Tree Release: (Field 1) • Mast trees released from competition through a crown release,on 3-4 sides • Unacceptable growing stock will be culled,saving on increased growth of healthy crop or mast trees. • Wildlife habitat to be maintained through retention of large woody debris and snags as important habitat elements. Details:Use single tree and group selection with crop/mast tree release. • Focus removal in overstocked areas • Remove mature and poorly formed individuals;showing rot or with other defects • Remove Scarlet Oak,if mature • Retain good quality stems of a variety of species from all size classes • Reduce basal areas to around 65. (Attachment B) • Enhance tree vigor/health,encourage regeneration of desirable species;oak&hickory,non-mature and good quality white oaks • Pockets of poor quality or mature trees to be removed in groups of up to 1—2 acres • Retain snags and cavity trees (6 per acre)and some trees with rot for future recruitment as snags or cavity trees;where possible;where safe. • Retain some mature individuals (esp.white oak) for a seed source,structural diversity,aesthetics. • Ensure some remnant of pitch pine can persist. • Retain individual with good live crown rations and of generally healthy appearance. • Lack of acreage and volume;therefore a non-commercial treatment O&M: • Periodic inspections for achieving objects and minimi7.ed resource damage • On-going management activities • Invasive plant control • Erosion during and after implementation of the practice • For the purpose of providing access to a gently sloping forested tract. • Allows the application of other conservation practices,monitoring and removal of forest products (Not to used if installation is done as part of a commercial operation(timber harvesting)) • Installation for removal of trees and brush,a minimum amount of blading and soil disturbance • Installation of water control measures such as water bars,broad based dips,wing ditches,etc. (No gravelling or ditching) • Installation to be supervised by a consult forester,land manger or other resource professional. • No seeding,allow to re-vegetate naturally. • Used as a staging area for equipment,tree cutter,log trailer,etc. • Located for safe site-line egress • Located in area of minor slope and higher ground to avoid material tracking on roadway Straw mulch(with no seeds) on Landing Area and other heavily disturbed forest trail areas. Denfeld-643 Strong Road,South Windsor,CT ----- South Windsor Inland Wetlands Application Narrative September 1,2016 *Refer to Attachment C) • Construct Wildlife Brush Piles,using tree tops from trees to be removed for forest stand improvement • Do not place brush piles in areas which are seasonally wet • Locate them to be evenly spaced over the area of tree mast release • Use on-site materials from tree thinning to construct brush piles ----------------------------------- Definitions: Mast Tree Rerelease (releases seeds,nuts,acorns): • Hardwood trees (Oaks (black,red,scarlet and white),American beech,black gum) • Softwood trees (pitch pine;minor hemlock and cedar) Active Forest Management— Increase individual tree vigor and growth rates: • Conserve 1 tree/acre> 18 in dbh • Conserve 3 trees /acre > 12 in dbh • Conserve some`rotting trees'to provide ecological diversity for insect,fungi,bacteria&wildlife) • Conserve some woody material(already on the ground) both>4 in dia(course) and <4 in dia. (fine) • Conserve some snags (standing dead trees)at a rate of six(6)per acre • Conserve some cavity tress(of large diameter trees) at a rate of six(6)per acre Reference: Connecticut Land Conservation Council htW://ww-,v.ctconser-,,ation.org/ — Denfeld-643 Strong Road,South Windsor,CT — - F x�w rt • a r +�' 4 t,�,_+�iSt_"�'' M;tih� A K13 All n l r r � e r Project Location a„ is 3 4 a . kl X Prepared: by D. Denfeld Forest Management South Windsor Connecticut Date: September 1, 2016 Conservation Plan USGS Site Location Plan Purpose: South Windsor IWWC Application MRCS Approved 643 Strong Road Conservation Plan Detail Date: 3/10/2016 Revised with Trails Field Office:WINDSOR SERVICE CENTER Agency: USDA-NRCS District:NORTH CENTRAL CONSERVATION DISTRICT Assisted By:ADAM MAIKSHILO Approximate Acres: 19 Legal Description: Farm 2205;Tract:5745 Field numbers(above)and acres(below)called out in yellow Forest trails and landings(655)added with addendum by TSP to Forest Managment Plan. Trails are approximate locations. Forester Recommended ° I.,anding area for harvest .t m t 666: 9.0 acres of Crop tree release 649:6 brush piles: Structures for Wildife Legend —•• Practices (polylines) 666: 1.1 ac of crop tree release Practices (polygons) _` 649: 2 brush piles: structures for wildlife Practice name Forest Stand Improvement ` tt, 4; x Mulching Practice name ' 0;�Structures for Wildlife 0 Forest Management Plan -Written N 170 0 170 340 510 680 o Forest Management Plan-Applied USDA Consplan � Feet rx W.E. -�.�-- 9 0.3 86.2 I 9/.4 95.0 / MAP1 tF9 90 x ! ,w S �""' �,� 1 tE �� x � � 86.4 i L V l7 . �t Li l. I I x 9/.3 a•._.. x 90.8 93.6x 89.0 0 { x x 89.7 .. , AL AL �to�13 a V 4/2 P 04I - © fY/P F"AkX O V4- M 87.9 V 9 r 3 If'x MAP i13 x W�=7. AL 89.7 Arl MaPfs i 1 � 87.9 AIL ! 916 + 90 x '� x x 84.8 .. 90.6 t46,7 \Il 88.5 x 90 „ ill iI e 'I' x84.7 � 89.3 88.9 �ti I/ ill/i ell i �° 87.2 85.4 I - � x 89.1 x •1 1. . 111 J 1 _ 190 i 9� 6V,yGE-S 90 x 89.4 S 9 1 ,3 x 9Q_f„ g o �� ,O 90 .6 O� i14 88. 4 / �90 192X)5 �llG `I' I PILE �P A ' GqO �" / -hL I_lls a b`0 x 4.5 d dZ x 90.B - 95.2 USDAWINDSOR SERVICE CENTER ADAM MAIKSHILO 100 NORTHFIELD DR FL 4 SOIL CONSERVATIONIST WINDSOR, CT 06095-4730 (860)688-7725 Conservation Plan DEBORAH DENFELD 643 STRONG RD SOUTH WINDSOR,CT 06074 OBJECTIVE(S) Maintaining a healthy forest that can provide diverse wildlife habitat, recreational access and opportunities, while maintaining water quality and soil integrity. Forest Tract:6745 Forest Management Plan-Applied All planned practices contained in the written Forest Management Plan are applied according to NRCS standards and specifications. Planned Applied Field Amount Month Year Amount Date 1 1 1 no 4 2017 Total: 1 no Forest Management Plan -Written The written site specific Forest Management Plan will meet the planning criteria described in the Field Office Technical Guide. Planned Applied Field Amount Month Year Amount Date 1 1 1 no 61 2015 1 no 6/5/2015 Total: 1 no 1 no 3/17/2016 Page 1 of 6 Forest Stand Improvement Crop/Mast Tree Release: Crop or wildlife mast trees will be released from competition through a crown release. Typical situation is to release on 3-4 sides. Unacceptable growing stock will be culled through this process focusing growth on crop or mast trees increasing growth, health and mast production. Crop tree release for timber must be specified in a forest management plan. Wildlife habitat will be maintained through retention of important habitat elements such as large woody debris and snags. Details: Enhance tree vigor and to encourage regeneration of desirable species, some minimal tree cutting can be done here.This stand is very small but adds important diversity to the property. Large scale operation that could potentially change the character of the area is not recommended.A crop tree/mast tree release favoring more desirable trees in the stand can help ensure continued vigor and can help with the production of both hard and soft mast. Perform a crop and mast tree release across the entire 1.1 acre stand. Crop trees and mast trees should be healthy, vigorous individuals. Attempt to release approximately 5-10 trees if feasible. Retain snags and cavity trees(if found)where possible and where doing so will not be a safety concern. This treatment will be noncommercial. O&M: Periodic inspections during treatment activities are necessary to ensure that objectives are achieved and resource damage is minimized. Follow-up and ongoing management activities will be needed to obtain desired results. Consideration will be given to resource concerns including, but not limited to: invasive plant control and erosion both during and after the implementation of the practice. Planned Applied Field Amount Month Year Amount Date 21 1.1 ac 1 21 2017 Total:1 1.1 ac 3/17/2016 Page 2 of 6 Forest Stand Improvement Crop/Mast Tree Release: Crop or wildlife mast trees will be released from competition through a crown release. Typical situation is to release on 3-4 sides. Unacceptable growing stock will be culled through this process focusing growth on crop or mast trees increasing growth, health and mast production. Crop tree release for timber must be specified in a forest management plan. Wildlife habitat will be maintained through retention of important habitat elements such as large woody debris and snags. Details: Use single tree and group selection with crop/mast tree release on approximately 9.0 acres. Focus removals in overstocked areas and remove mature and poorly formed individuals, as well as those showing rot or other defects. Scarlet oak in particular should be targeted for removal if mature. Retain good quality stems of a variety of species from all size classes. Reduce basal areas to around 65. Crop trees and mast trees should be healthy, vigorous individuals of desirable species, particularly oak and hickory. White oaks should be retained where possible if they are not mature or poor quality. Where pockets of poor quality or mature trees exist consider removing them in groups up to 1-2 acres. Retain any snags, cavity trees(6 per acre),and some trees with rot for future recruitment as snags or cavity trees where possible and where doing so will not be a safety concern. Retain some mature Individuals (especially white oak)for a seed source, structural diversity and for aesthetics. Where pitch pine is located, attempt to ensure some remnant can persist. Retain individuals with good live crown ratios and those that appear to be generally healthy. These treatments are non-commercial due to a general lack of acreage and volume. O&M: Periodic inspections during treatment activities are necessary to ensure that objectives are achieved and resource damage is minimized. Follow-up and ongoing management activities will be needed to obtain desired results. Consideration will be given to resource concerns including, but not limited to: invasive plant control and erosion both during and after the implementation of the practice. Planned Applied Field Amount Month Year Amount Date 1 9 ac 21 2617 Total: 9 ac Forest Trails and Landings Construct a forest trail and landings for the purpose of providing access to a gently sloping forested tract. Access will allow the application of other conservation practices, monitoring, and the removal of forest products. It is not, however, to be used if the installation is-done as part of a commercial operation such as timber harvesting. Installation will include removal of trees and brush as needed, a minimum amount of blading and soil disturbance, and the installing of water control measures such as water bars, broad-based dips,wing ditches, etc. It will not include measures more common to access roads such as gravelling or ditching. Installation will be supervised by a consultant forester, land manager, or other resource professional. The forest trail will receive NO seeding and will be allowed to revegetate naturally. Planned Applied Field Amount Month Year Amount Date 1 1600 ft 5 A17 2 220 ft 5 2017 Total: 1820 ft 3/17/2016 Page 3 of 6 Mulching Apply straw mulch to the landing areas: Do NOT apply any conservation seed mixes to this area. The State of Connecticut Natural Diversity Database identified a listed plant species on this site and has requested that natural regeneration should occur. To protect exposed soil and promote apply a straw mulch to the landing area and any other heavily disturbed areas. Straw should be used over hay as it will be nearly free of seeds that could prevent natural regeneration of the site. Planned Applied Field Amount Month Year Amount Date 11 0.5 ac 51 2017 Total:1 0.5 ac Structures for Wildlife Brush Piles: Install 6 brush piles in field 1 and 2 brush piles in field 2. The typical scenario is hardwood and mixed-wood forest stands and open areas(for brush piles)where wildlife cover is limited. Brush piles will be created from trees on site and will be constructed by piling brush and loose branches on top of a base frame comprised of large logs. Brush piles will be constructed to improve wildlife cover with a typical density of 3 per acre. Typical size is minimum 12-18 feet wide by 6 feet high. Escape cover has been created and will allow successful movement between other cover areas. O&M To insure that the practice functions as intended over time, items from the list below that are pertinent to the practice(s)applied will be considered and addressed. -Use of fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals shall not be applied in such a way as to adversely affect the practice. - Control of invasive plant species. - Removal of vegetation or replacement of dead or dying vegetation. - Control of erosion. These actions include normal repetitive activities in the application and use of the practice (operation), and repair and upkeep of the practice(maintenance). -Timing of cutting will avoid periods when upland wildlife are nesting,fawning, etc. and will allow the establishment, development, and management of upland vegetation for the intended purpose. No mowing or cutting of fields shall take place between April 15 and August 1. - Biological control of pests(e.g., using predator or parasitic species)may be implemented where available and feasible. Planned Applied Field Amount Month Year Amount Date 1 1 no 4 2017 1 1 no 4 2017 1 1 no 4 2017 1 1 no 4 2017 1 1 no 4 2017 1 1 no 4 2017 2 1 no 4 2017 2 1 no 4 2017 Total: 8 no 3/17/2016 Page 4 of 6 Per Natural Diversity Database(NDDB)Letter: Forestry equipment must be cleaned prior to their use on the site. The object is to prevent transport of invasive plants to site by dislodging seeds or propagules(parts that can sprout)from equipment. Clean equipment will reduce the chance of invasive plant establishment on site. Do not seed disturbed areas, let them revegetate naturally. To avoid impact on endangered bats,tree cutting operations will be conducted during the period between July 31 and June 1. If cutting needs occur outside this window, it is required to consult with CT DEEP and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service though NRCS. To avoid impacts on nesting migratory birds,tree cutting operations will be conducted,August 1 through April 15. CT NRCS may terminate any contract that violates these requirements. Contact NRCS prior to commencing tree cutting activities. Protection of sensitive site. The site is mapped as hydric soils with areas nationally mapped as wetlands. To minimize impacts,all cutting to will occur in the winter months when ground is frozen, if winter months are unseasonably warm and ground does not freeze,follow best management practices (BMPs)to allow for the successful completion of the planned cutting while minimizing impacts to natural resources. This may include, but is not limited to, use equipment fitted with low ground pressure tires or tracks as well as use slash or woody residue to stabilize forest trails across the site. The client is responsible for following state and local regulations, obtaining all permits, and following any jurisdictional rulings or permissions for the proposed harvest. Follow Best Management Practices(BMPs)to minimize effects to water and soil quality. For detailed information on BMPs,consult Best Management Practices for water quality while harvesting forest Products;2012 Connecticut Field Guide released by the STATE OF CONNECTICUT,DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION,Bureau of Natural Resources,Division of Forestry. The 2007 edition is digital and can be found at the following website: http://www.ct.gov/deep/lib/deep/forestry/best management practices/best practicesmanual pdf 3/17/2016 Page 5 of 6 _USDA _. United States Department of Agriculture Connecticut Wildlife Brush Piles - Structures for Wildlife 649 Conservation Practice Job Sheet Lifespan Definition A mound or pile of appropriate woody material, c. Outer logs should be closer to 20 feet in fashioned by piling brush and loose branches on length to provide stability for the brush top of a base comprised of larger logs, or other pile. natural materials,to provide cover for wildlife where cover is limited. Totaling 10'to 20'on a side Purpose r � This practice is used to create cover for many songbirds, small mammals, reptiles,and I ( o amphibians when natural cover is limited; such as after clear-cutting. It provides areas for o nesting, resting, escape from predators,and v protection from harsh weather conditions. Criteria, Considerations,and Specifications I Brush piles may be built to various dimensions based on the size of available material; 1 however,the size should range between 10 to 20 feet on a side and 4 to 8 feet high. `--' Logs a minimum of 640" t in diarnrlteir togs 6-8"apart Materials Brush piles can be constructed using a variety of 2. A second layer of smaller diameter logs materials. Commonly, materials left from should be laid on top and roughly timber harvesting or any tree-cutting activity perpendicular to the first base layer, in the are utilized. Natural features, such as rocks, same fashion,and repeated with boulders, and stumps may also be incorporated. increasingly smaller logs, building 1-3 additional layers. Construction 8 1. Base Layer: a. Logs at a minimum of 6-10 inches in diameter are laid at various angles, . leaving small openings(6 to 8 inches wide)between base logs for easy wildlife access.Alternate logs to create varying heights and avoid creating parallel runways through the base layer. } b. Logs of various lengths(that add up to 10 to 20 feet on a side) can be staggered throughout the foundation, -with breaks, creating a maze-like environment. Connecticut Wildlife Brush Piles-(645) Revised January 2016 Page 1 of 5 USDA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND PROVIDER 3. The foundation should be covered with 3-6 feet of brush, using small limbs,saplings, a~ loose brush,and pine boughs. Larger branches should cover the foundation,with smaller branches placed on top. ^i k � s- Placement Several considerations should be made when placing brush piles: `. .• • Multiple brush piles are better than one large pile,providing more opportunities for cover and 4. Brush should loosely drape over the edges, escape from predators. with openings(6 to 8 inches in diameter) • Good locations include adjacent to forest left on the sides in several places for easy openings,pastures or hay fields;within shrub wildlife access and escape. Brush should thickets or fencerows; in field corners;near cover the pile sufficiently so the base is stonewalls and wetlands. mostly covered.If available on site,add • On lands with little natural cover,such as pine boughs, as the needles will persist recently cleared areas, begin brush piles within 25 feet of woodland edges,and build in towards after deciduous leaves fall off.You should the center of the habitat patch, resulting in 1-3 not be able to see through the brush pile brush piles per acre,evenly distributed across even after leaves have dropped from the the project site. branches. • Place near wildlife food sources,such as mast and fruit trees. • Avoid placing brush piles on existing high quality food or cover sources. �f Sz p. • Avoid placing brush piles near homes,lawns,or gardens,to prevent situations where wildlife could become a nuisance. • Keep away from buildings due to flammability. • Cultural resources such as stone walls can be +w incorporated into a brush pile, however stones should not be moved. Review potential impacts prior to incorporating stone walls. Variations for Brush Pile Base NOTE: When constructing brush piles using mechanized forestry equipment, it is not possible to • Tree stumps still in place can be construct piles exactly as described. It is suitable if incorporated into your brush pile base. larger logs are crisscrossed on the base and covered Several logs(6 to 10 inches in diameter and with increasingly smaller logs and finally brush,so 5 to 6 feet long) are placed on top of and long as adequate spaces are left for wildlife to enter around the stump. and exit the pile. Connecticut Wildlife Brush Piles-(645) Revised January 2016 Page 2 of 5 • Small rock piles-these should be staggered following a forestry or tree removal about 12 inches apart with each pile about operation.As with other brush pile 10 inches high and 12 inches across to creation, larger materials should be placed support next layer of limbs. Existing on the bottom at various angles with boulders and rocks on the landscape can be subsequently smaller material on top.Avoid piled together to provide additional den packing the logs tightly,as this will sites; start with the largest rocks on the eliminate any openings for wildlife to enter bottom of the stack to create hiding places and exit the linear pile. Windrows should between the rocks,and stack brush on top range from 10 to 20 feet on a side and 6 to for additional cover. 8 feet high. Windrows should have breaks built into them every 50 to 100 feet to provide travel lanes for wildlife. Operation and Maintenance 6 • Monitor condition and/or usage of the I�I� Y4 structure �,. ti,, • Conduct needed maintenance of the structure,such as periodically adding new material to the top of the pile Other Types of Cover(do not meet criteria for reimbursement through NRCS program) Additional Notes • Living brush pile-in a cluster of small • Brush piles are not permanent; new brush diameter trees,cut each tree half way needs to be added over time or new piles through at a height of 12-18 inches above may need to be constructed. Rot and decay the ground;fold treetops inwards towards is a natural process and may attract more other trees in groups so they rest on the insects, providing additional food sources. ground or on top of the other half-cut trees. Do not use materials that contain toxic • Stonewalls-may be incorporated into the substances(i.e. pressure treated brush piles base; brush should be placed lumber/posts,creosote railroad ties, lead against the wall with similar dimensions and painted surfaces,tires, etc.).These distribution to brush piles created in an substances can cause wildlife mortality open space. either through contact,consumption,or • When harvesting trees, leave the crowns of inhalation. the largest trees(e.g.an oak treetop)for wildlife cover. • Windrowed brush piles-typically these linear brush piles can best be created Connecticut Wildlife Brush Piles-(645) Revised January 2016 Page 3 of 5 s Wildlife • • Sheet Name:Deborah Denfeld County.,Hartford TOWn:S.Windsor Field(s):t and 2 Farm#: 2205 Tract#: 5745 Designed By:Adam Maikshilo Approved By.- Signature: Date:2i2r20 16 Date: SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS ✓ Species to be benefited:various small mammals, game birds ✓ Purpose of brush pile:increase habitat and cover potential for wildlife ✓ Number and spacing of Brush Piles:A total of 8 brush piles will be installed. 6 will be installed in Field 1. 2 will be installed in field 2. ✓ Acres Benefited:about 19 forested acres will benefit from the installation of the brush piles. ✓ Preparation: Base Materials: See above job sheet. Large materials. 8-10 in diameter logs, stumps, rocks. Cover Materials: See above job sheet. Smaller materials, small diameter limbs, brush, and tops. ✓ Additional Maintenance needed for 5 year lifespan: Add additional small diameter stem material as necesary. ✓ Site/Sketch map attached:See conservation plan detail map Comments: See attached conservation detail map for approximate brush pile location. These locations may be changed as needed. Piles should not be placed on areas subject to flooding or are seasonally wet. Piles should be evenly spaced. Follow construction notes/instructions of the Job Sheet on Page 1-2. Connecticut Wildlife Brush Piles-(645) Revised January 2016 Page 4 of 5 e. FY.4wF' K � ��,� ♦ R�{�f L'I#� ri. `.. '�.�. ( �l Tom' `:31<�, .�;}� �t'Lj"-(� •'.aj+ y ... `;_ '��:{'1 s'�'Of� Y'A•i42 �V K � t f rA • r r r ,, Management Plan for Deborah and Karl Denfeld 19 acres; 2015-2024 South Windsor, CT—Hartford County a .+ C a yo Prepared for: Prepared by: k t �F Ferrucci&Walicki,LLC 6 Way Rd. Deborah and Karl Denfeld Middlefield,CT 06455 643 Strong Road Eric Hansen,CT Certified Forester F720 South Windsor,CT 06074 860.349.7007 860.205.9368 Landowner NRCS Representative Forester t_ T, Above:The dry knoll along the southern boundary adds diversity to the flat wetlands that comprise the rest of the forest Executive Summary This Management Plan guides the management Overall, the investigation revealed that the of the property owned by Karl and Deborah property contains generally even-aged and two- Denfeld located in South Windsor, Connecticut aged forested, upland, and riparian ecosystems, for the period of 2015-2024. This property is to a pond, and a maintained open area. This be managed to maintain and enhance wildlife property possesses varying levels of potential habitat for a variety of species, improve timber opportunities for future forest and wildlife quality and forest health, help maintain management. The property also contains a balanced and properly functioning ecosystems, narrow existing trail that provides the improve recreational experiences for the landowners with some minimal access to parts landowners and maintain aesthetic qualities, all of the property. while keeping the protection of water quality and soil integrity paramount. This property may be suited for a multiple-use land management program. All The entire Denfeld property contains recommendations have been carefully approximately 19.3 mapped acres. This considered and balanced within the general property was researched and field-investigated overall objectives of the landowners' forestland by Ferrucci & Walicki, LLC during spring 2015. management goals and other interests. The results, along with multiple-use management recommendations for the next ten years, are included in this Management Plan. Goals for the Denfeld Multiple-Use Management Program 1. Engage in sound,sustainable land stewardship 2. Conserve soil &water resources 3. Maintain sensitive or special areas as reserves 4. Maintain&improve forest and ecosystem health S. Protect&enhance diverse wildlife habitat 6. Potentially generate periodic income from the sale of forest products 1 Above: The understory in much of this forest is dominated by dense patches of sweet pepperbush and some highbush blueberry,but contains little in terms of tree regeneration. Summary of Major Recommendations Further details on these major recommendations are contained within the body of this plan. Natural Resources 1. A forest management program, including a potential timber harvest and wildlife habitat work, may be implemented on this property. Efforts to maintain and enhance wildlife habitat, improve forest health and diversity, personal safety, and maintain water quality and soil stability, should be the focus of management activities. 2. Engage in periodic tree cutting to improve forest health and species, age class and size class diversity. Recreation 1. Continue the maintenance of the trail providing access to different parts of the property. Following any future forest management operations in which large equipment is used (i.e. a skidder etc.),consider converting any logging roads to usable trails following completion of forest management activities in certain areas. Summary of NRCS Resource Concerns • High density of trees in overstory and shrubs in the understory in places reducing tree vigor/inhibiting regeneration • General lack of tree regeneration • Lack of sufficiently dense, healthy softwood cover for diversity Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 2 Contents ExecutiveSummary............................................................................1 Summary of Major Recommendations................................................2 PROPERTY DESCRIPTION.............................................................................4 GENERAL PROPERTY DESCRIPTION AND INVENTORY METHODS..........................4 BOUNDARIES, LOCATION AND ACCESS ..........................................................5 WATERFEATURES ....................................................................................6 INSECT, DISEASE AND OTHER FOREST HEALTH ISSUES......................................6 PROPERTYHISTORY...................................................................................8 WILDLIFE................................................................................................8 LANDOWNERGOALS...............................................................................10 Overview .........................................................................................10 STAND DESCRIPTIONS..............................................................................10 DENFELD STAND INFORMATION.................................................................10 DENFELDSTAND MAP.............................................................................11 STAND 1: MIXED HARDWOOD SAWTIMBER AND POLETIMBER (15.62 ACRES) ....12 STAND 2: DRY UPLAND HARDWOODS (1.14 ACRES)......................................14 AREA 3: OPEN WA TERIWETLA NDS(0.98 ACRES) .........................................16 AREA 4: OPENIDEVELOPED AREA (1.64 ACRES)...........................................17 General Property Recommendations................................................18 Stand Specific Property Recommendations ......................................19 Summary of Scheduled Activities 2014-2023 ....................................20 Sources Consulted and/or Cited .......................................................20 Maps ...............................................................................................21 DENFELD NRCS TREATMENTS MAP...........................................................21 DENFELD NATURAL DIVERSITY DATABASE MAP............................................22 WATERFEATURES...................................................................................23 Glossary...........................................................................................24 SOILS MAP & NDDB response to request ..........................................28 3 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 Property Description General Property Description and Inventory Methods The Denfeld property is located at 643 Strong Road in South Windsor, Connecticut. It contains approximately 19.3 acres. The land is made up of a combination of low, wet ground with mixed hardwood forest,a small upland oak forest on a knoll,a potential vernal pool, a pond, and a maintained area around the houses that contains some fruit trees. Above:This wet area along the southern property boundary may act as a potential vernal pool. The majority of this property is riparian hardwood forest, though there are individuals of softwood scattered throughout (mostly pitch pine). The landowners use the property primarily for the purposes of recreation and to provide wildlife habitat and open space. The area is part of a larger wildlife corridor in this section of South Windsor and is adjacent to some property that is conserved by the South Windsor Land Conservation Trust, Inc. An inventory of the forest resources on the property was completed in spring of 2015. A series of inventory points were laid out throughout the property. At each point a 10 or 20 Basal Area Factor (BAF) angle gauge was used to determine basal areas' and a Biltmore stick and/or diameter tape were used to determine diameters and merchantable heights of trees. Additionally, a qualitative visual inspection of individual tree and stand health, as well as midstory and understory prevalence and species composition was conducted at each point. Trees on the forested portions of the property are generally in the small to medium sawtimber and poletimber size classeS2 with occasional large diameter sawtimber-sized trees. It appears as though competition from adjacent trees is the limiting factor for tree growth and vigor as basal areas (i.e. density/amount of trees in any given area) are relatively high in places on the property. One tree was ' Basal area is a relative measure of density of trees in a given area. Usually described on an average per acre basis it is the cross-sectional surface area(in square feet)of wood that would be found in all trees at breast height which is 4.5 feet above the ground on any given acre. 2 Poletimber is any tree that is between 4.5 and 12 inches in diameter at breast height(dbh). Sawtimber-sized trees are those that are over 12 inches dbh. Small sawtimber ranges from between 12-14 inch dbh. Medium sawtimber is generally between 14-18 inches dbh and large sawtimber is generally 18 inches dbh and greater. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 4 cored and growth rates were determined to be more than 25 rings to the last inch of growth. The trees in the overstory are approximately 75-100 years old. Trees are relatively tall in most places on the property which is an indication that the site conditions are appropriate for growing trees in spite of the wet ground. The understory consists a mix of woody and herbaceous species including dense patches of sweet pepperbush with some highbush and lowbush blueberry as well as club moss. In general, tree regeneration is significantly lacking in the understory. The most frequently observed tree species that is regenerating on the property is red maple. Most of the red maples were saplings and appear to be moderate to poor in terms of vigor. The topography is almost completely flat except for a small knoll along the southcentral boundary. Soils are mostly wet throughout the property, except on the knoll which contains drier soils. Elevation ranges from approximately 90 feet above sea level throughout most of the property to near 110 feet on the knoll. There were no cultural features noted during the inventory on the property. r Right: The pink flagging seen here indicates the property boundary along the southern line. Maintaining the flagging and/or painting trees along accurate property boundaries is an important part of the management of your property. Portions of boundary lines are marked by with pink flagging. Though the flagging is clear along the boundary currently, painting the boundary may be a better, more long-lasting method of marking. In addition, there are occasional survey markers along the eastern boundary. Boundaries, Location and Access ja• �- This property is located west of the center of South Windsor. The property is bounded on the northeast by a property that is owned by the South Windsor Land Conservation Trust. Other properties along the eastern, southern and western boundaries are privately owned. Access to the property is gained from the maintained area east of the landowners' house on Strong Road. There is around 800 feet of frontage that is also along Strong Road east of the house. There is an abandoned road the serves as a part of the eastern boundary line, but access to it from Strong Road would need to be negotiated because it crosses another landowner's property. There is a small, narrow path through portions of the property that the landowners can use for recreational access(right). 5 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 Water Features There are no major watercourses that flow through the property, though much of the soils are wet and nearly the entire property is mapped as having wetland soils. There is a small pond along the southern boundary of the maintained area south of the house. The landowners have planted some native wetland plants including plants such as cardinal flower to augment the vegetation that currently exists. No fish species were noted in the property's water features during the forest inventory. Insect, Disease and Other Forest Health Issues In general, forest health throughout this property is fair to good. The major issues are a lack of structural diversity in places, and a lack of desirable species of tree regeneration, relative lack of tree vigor, and broken tree tops from recent storms. Left: Many oak trees on the property such as this scarlet oak sustained damage to their tops during the October 2011 snowstorm and other recent storm events. Forest structure is described in both vertical and horizontal contexts. Vertical diversity is the presence of vegetation of various heights (also called strata) in a relatively small observable area. Horizontal diversity is a description of how vegetation heights vary over a larger landscape level. In almost all laces on the property tree p p p y regeneration is completely absent from the 0-5 foot size class. This lack of vegetation can negatively affect the ability of the area to serve as habitat for species of wildlife that use this stage of vegetative development for cover and feeding. The structure that is missing in terms of tree regeneration is somewhat buffered by the dense shrub layers that are f •!' rr,,.��.'�.•!'��Aw1' �-• ' fit. 1 Spatial patchiness Multiple canopy layers The figure above shows the multiple canopy layers in one spot representing vertical structure and the spatial patchiness of horizontal structure over a wider area, both described in greater detail below. Diagram courtesy of the British Columbian Ministry of Forests. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 6 present. Increasing vertical and horizontal structural diversity improves habitat for deer, ruffed grouse, woodcock, rabbits,turkeys,songbirds and other species that use a combination of habitat types for their life requirements. One additional element of diversity that will be discussed later is tree species diversity. In particular, there is a lack of softwood species(a.k.a.conifers or evergreens). There were no populations of non-native invasive plants found on the property. The major insect or disease issues observed during field visits are primarily related to oak. Many of the trees noted during the inventory had sustained some damage to their tops, most likely during the snowstorm that occurred in October 2011. This storm was particularly hard on oak trees because they tend to hang on to their leaves later into the fall (and sometimes throughout the winter) than most other species. Another general health issue observed during field visits is a relative lack of tree vigor. One tree was cored during the inventory, and that plus additional visual observations indicate that many of the trees are growing relatively slowly. This is important because growth rates are frequently directly proportional to tree vigor and associated health for many of the species of interest on the property, primarily oak. Tree growth rates are affected by several factors including: • Site conditions(overall site and microsite); • Genetics; • Slope position and aspect(i.e.direction the slope faces) • Competition (primarily for sunlight);and • Species. Some species including hemlock and some hardwoods can be perfectly healthy but have very slow growth rates. One way in which individual tree vigor and growth rates can be increased is through active forest management. By periodically thinning the forest retaining individuals of a variety of species that appear healthy, competition will be decreased, and frequently vigor and growth rates increase. Although it is important to attempt to ensure tree health and vigor through active management, not all trees that appear to be poorer quality should be removed if forest management is to occur on the property. Having some trees (standing and on the ground) that show signs of rot etc. helps provide an element of ecological diversity that is important for a variety of species of insects, fungi, bacteria and wildlife. There are minimal snags (standing dead trees) that are scattered throughout the property, and populations of cavity trees (larger diameter standing trees with cavities) are also limited. Coarse and fine woody material is found in places. Coarse woody material (CWM) is woody material on the ground that is greater than 4 inches in diameter, fine woody material is less than 4 inches in diameter. Both coarse and fine woody material play a role in providing different kinds of habitat for a variety of vertebrate and invertebrate wildlife species. Snags and cavity trees are also important ecologically for a variety of fungi, bacteria, insect and wildlife species as well as for nutrient cycling, and, in some cases, tree seedling germination. The recruitment of all of these features may be appropriate in certain areas 7 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 on the property,where and if personal safety and infrastructure integrity would not be compromised by doing so. r x Above:Coarse woody material (left)and fine woody material (right)help to provide additional structure and habitat features that benefit a variety of wildlife species. Their utility changes over time as they decompose. Wildfire risk on the property is relatively low due to climate conditions, a lack of significant ladder fuels and fine woody material,as well as wetlands and otherwise soggy soils in places throughout. Property History The property was first purchased by the landowners almost 20 years ago. Due to relatively uniform forest structure,this area may have been used for agriculture and subsequently abandoned, perhaps at the turn of the last century or shortly after. The landowners have heard that the area may have been part of a pig farming operation in the area when it was cleared. There was no evidence noted of prior logging(i.e.stumps)on the property. Wildlife Providing quality habitat for a variety of wildlife species — game and non-game species alike — is a primary goal of the landowners. Some wildlife (primarily evidence of deer) was observed during field visits to the property,and there is good potential for a variety of species to exist here due to the variety of habitats present, in spite of the small area. Throughout the property there are hard mast' producing species of trees in the overstory (i.e. the main tree canopy). Black, red, scarlet and white oaks play a significant role both hardwood stands which constitute the majority of the property. American beech, another hard mast producer, is present in low numbers in the midstory and, due to its position in the canopy may not be producing beech nuts. Having a variety of different kinds of mast producing species is beneficial because oftentimes different species will have good mast years(i.e. produce significant amounts of seeds, nuts or acorns) in different years. Staggered production of seed sources can aid in the dispersal of mast over time and help wildlife 3 Mast is food for wildlife and is separated into two general categories:hard and soft. Hard mast includes oak,hickory,beech and other nut producers. Soft mast is fruits including berries,cherries,and apples. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 8 prepare for winter. The hard mast produced by the tree species mentioned above is used as food for a variety of wildlife. Soft mast in the form of planted apple trees in the open area as well as raspberry in the garden help to round out wildlife diets. Many of the fruits are currently harvested by the landowner to help augment the own diets. It is beneficial for many species of wildlife to have a combination of hard and soft mast in their diet as each mast source provides different dietary elements. Hard mast often has more protein and fats,whereas soft mast tends to be higher in sugars. As mentioned earlier,there are some softwood trees in places on the property. Most of the softwood is pitch pine. In addition to the species diversity they provide in an area dominated by hardwood trees, softwood trees — in particular hemlock and cedar, but also pines to a certain extent — can act as a sheltering area for wildlife. In heavy snows, dense softwood cover can limit snow depths allowing for easier travel for deer and other large animals. Additionally,wild turkeys frequently roost in white pine. Many other species including non-game species of wildlife such as songbirds utilize the dense cover of softwood foliage and some species including black-throated green warblers will preferentially breed in areas with a softwood component. Snags and cavity trees are two elements of a forest that are frequently overlooked. As described earlier snags are standing dead trees. As these trees decompose, they provide a variety of habitat for many species including insects,fungi, bacteria, birds, and mammals. Cavity trees are standing trees with holes in them that may provide habitat. Where feasible, attempt to retain and recruit snags and cavity trees. At any given time, the presence of at least six (6) snags and/or cavity trees per acre of various sizes is ideal. If possible,attempt to retain one(1)tree/acre that is greater than 18 inches in diameter at breast height(dbh)4 and three(3)trees that are greater than 12 inches dbh.s A check of Connecticut's Natural Diversity Database (NDDB) indicates that the entire property that may contain rare or threatened species or species of special concern. A request for more information from �? ; Connecticut's NDDB has been done in conjunction with the development of this plan. Preliminary results indicate that some rare plants6 — which could potentially benefit from additional sunlight created by cutting some trees— may exist here. A field investigation by NDDB will be done to determine the presence of such species. If necessary an addendum to the plan will be created following the investigation. A follow up from this inquiry will be helpful to determine which species may exist there and how they may be protected and/or enhanced when managing the property. (See NDDB Map near the end of this document.) Above: At least two deer stands There is some hunting allowed on the property. were noted during the inventory of this property. 4 Diameter at breast height(dbh)is diameter outside bark as measured at 4.5 feet above the ground on the high side of the slope(if there is slope). 5Hagenbuch, Steve, Katherine Manaras, Jim Shallow, Kristen Sharpless, and Michael Snyder. Silviculture with Birds in Mind. Huntington&Waterbury,VT:Audubon Vermont&VT FPR,2011.Printed guide. 6 These species are Barratt's sedge,rough aster and climbing fern. There is a description of these species at the end of the plan. 9 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 Landowner Goals The landowners are interested in maintaining a healthy forest that can provide diverse wildlife habitat, recreational access and opportunities,and maintain water quality and soil integrity. Generating revenue through the sale of forest products to help offset carrying costs of the property may also important to the landowners. OVERVIEW This property is a mix of riparian forests with a small patch of upland forest, forested wetland, a potential vernal pool, a pond, and a small developed area around the house. The forested portions of the property contain a mix of hardwoods, primarily various species of oak, red maple, black gum and an occasional pine. This plan addresses all 19 mapped acres of this property. There are two different forested stand types. Stand Descriptions For the purposes of this management plan, the property has been divided into 4 management units called stands or areas. Forested stands are sections of the property uniform enough in vegetation species composition, age class, size class, density etc. to be able to group together as relatively homogenous. Other features that are examined to help group stands together are location, accessibility, and size of area.That is not to say, however,that forested stands are completely uniform. There will almost always be some variability due to the fact that we are attempting to quantify and qualify natural systems,which inherently trend towards entropy. There is a set of recommended actions provided for each stand. Significant activities are provided with a date to help guide the management of the property over the next 10 years. Some of the dates may be interchangeable and should remain flexible to be able to respond to changing conditions (i.e. storm, insect or disease damage/infestation, changing goals on the part of the landowner etc.). Additionally, there may be opportunities to work with adjacent landowners such as the South Windsor Land Conservation Trust to conduct simultaneous operations,which may increase economic feasibility and/or increase the effectiveness of a treatment. As wildlife use many of the adjacent properties in addition to the Denfeld property, conducting operations in tandem with adjacent landowners may have the capacity to have a greater impact than managing for one property alone. Denfeld Stand Information DENFELD STAND INFORMATION Stand Stand Type Acreage 1 Mixed hardwood sawtimber and poletimber 15.62 2 Upland mixed hardwood sawtimber and poletimber 1.14 3 Open water and wetlands 0.98 4 Open and developed areas 1.64 TOTAL ACREAGE 19.38 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 10 �; t •••a �„ a#, � �i+� ,4, �: *�,,'` s,� ;'tea`, X � Fir t 1 �1 •1^ 1 � y i • � 1 1.1 ! Stand 1: Mixed hardwood sawtimber and poletimber (15.62 Acres) Description; This is the largest forested stand on the property. The topography in this flat. Soils are poorly drained and in many places have standing water. According to soils mapping through the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS),there are three of soil types present in this stand. Walpole sandy loam makes up most of the stand and indeed most of the property. There is also Scarboro muck and Windsor loamy sand, the latter of which is better drained than other places on the property. Prevalent species include white oak, red maple, black oak, scarlet oak and some black oak. There are also an occasional red oak and pitch pine. Small diameter sawtimber (12-14 inches dbh) and large poletimber are the predominant size-classes,though there are some trees that are 18 inches or greater in dbh(i.e. large sawtimber). In fact there are some small pockets toward the north end of the stand in which there are many large diameter sawtimber-sized trees. { Above:Large diameter sawtimber exists in this stand scattered throughout and in more concentrated pockets in places as well. This area in in the north-central portion of the stand and contains several large diameter white oak. The stand is even-aged to two-aged with some red maple and black gum poletimber and saplings. There are approximately 200 trees/acre with about 35 of these found in the sapling size classes. Again, there were few to no snags noted during the inventory. About % (41 trees/acre) of the remaining trees in the stand are in the sawtimber size class (i.e. > 12 inches dbh). Total basal area for live trees in the featured stand' is approximately 95 square ft/acre almost 60%of which is sawtimber with the rest being poletimber. This basal area figure is higher than optimal for a hardwood stand such as this. There is approximately 5,000 board feet and 5.3 cords of wood per acre. Most of the trees are acceptable growing stock. Many of the trees in this stand are hard mast producers (i.e. oaks). Site index' information was not available for this soils, but the trees were relatively tall and is estimated to be around 55 feet for oak which is fair for that species group. This in turn means that it is a decent site for growing oak trees in Featured stand is the live trees that constitute the overstory and midstory. Trees in the main canopy are described in the featured stand. Generally it does not take into account seedlings,saplings,or snags. 8 Site index is a relative measure of tree productivity. The higher the site index,the more productive the site is for the species indicated. A site index of 60,for example,means that a tree of the species indicated is likely to grow to 60 feet in height after 50 years of growth. Measurements are based on species because different species grow differently on different soil types. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 12 spite of the wet soils. To test this, an increment core was taken on a co-dominant scarlet oak tree in this stand. When attempting to determine growth rates, the number of rings per inch is frequently the method used. This is particularly useful when looking at the last inch of woody growth next to the bark toward the lower portion of the tree (approximately breast height). The tree that was observed using this method had a growth rate of over 25 rings to the last inch of growth. This means that it took this tree 25 years to grow one inch on one side of the tree. Optimal growth is closer to five or six rings to the inch. One way in which individual tree vigor and growth rates can be increased is through active forest management. By periodically thinning the forest retaining individuals of a variety of species that appear healthy,competition will be decreased,and frequently vigor and growth rates increase. Different areas within the stand have slightly different species composition and size characteristics. For example the southwestern portion of this stand tends to have a higher concentration of smaller diameter pole-sized tree whereas the northcentral portion of the stand contains many large diameter sawtimber trees. There is a small, narrow area near the southern boundary of this stand and the property that contains an area that may act as a vernal pool. During the inventory conducted in late April, there was a significant amount of standing water,though no egg masses were noted. ,i Above:Another view of the potential vernal pool along the southern boundary. This stand lacks a significant presence of desirable,established tree regeneration in the understory. No seedlings were noted during the inventory, and a minimal amount of saplings were noted at each point. Understory species common in this stand include shrubs such as sweet pepperbush and highbush blueberry. Aside from the issues with the storm damage addressed earlier in this plan which are evident in this stand, tree health appears to be generally good. Limited growth rates appear to be the main issue. Another characteristic of this stand that may be an issue with forest health moving forward is the general lack of seedlings. Access to and through this stand is feasible, though existing infrastructure is limited. There is a significant amount of road frontage along Strong Road, but the soils in many places may be too wet for conventional logging equipment. 13 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 Recommendations: Some of the landowners' primary goals are to continue to provide wildlife habitat and to offer safe, quality recreational experiences. To this end, developing additional woods roads and trails and/or converting any future logging roads to trails following forest management activities would be beneficial. Current high basal area levels and a relative lack of desirable regeneration in the stand indicate that the stand may benefit from a treatment that increases sunlight to residual trees and to the forest floor. 2017 — If an appropriate operator and equipment can be located, consider a thinning during frozen winter conditions. Use single tree and group selection with crop/mast tree release. Focus removals in overstocked areas and remove mature and poorly formed individuals,as well as those showing rot or other defects. Scarlet oak in particular should be targeted for removal if mature. Retain good quality stems of a variety of species from all size classes. Reduce basal areas to around 65. Crop trees and mast trees should be healthy, vigorous individuals of desirable species, particularly oak and hickory. White oaks should be } ` retained where possible if they are not mature or poor quality. Where pockets of poor quality or mature trees exist consider removing them in groups up to 1-2 acres. Retain any snags, cavity trees (6 per acre), and some trees with rot for future recruitment as snags or cavity trees where possible and where doing so will not be a safety concern. Retain some mature individuals (especially white oak) for a seed source, structural diversity and for aesthetics. Right:Attempt to retain softwood trees wherever possible for diversity. Where pitch pine is located, attempt to ensure some remnant can persist. Retain individuals with good live crown ratios'and those that appear to be generally healthy. These treatments are non-commercial due to a general lack of acreage and volume. If desired,consider finding a location to begin a log pile for mushroom cultivation. Stand 2: Dry upland hardwoods (1.14 Acres) Description: This stand is found along the southern boundary in the eastern portion of the property. The area is located on a small knoll that is set up above all the other ground in the area. It is well drained and contains a mix of oaks in the overstory, an open midstory and some huckleberry in the understory. 9 Live crown ratio is the ratio of the portion of the tree that contains live foliage to the entire tree height. Optimal live crown ratios are near 30%. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 14 This stand contains approximately 90 trees/acre, 60 of which is sawtimber and 30 of which is poletimber. j Above:The dry knoll in Stand 2 contains an overstory composed of almost exclusively oak and a much more open understory than Stand 1. Total basal area of trees in the featured stand is approximately 100 square feet per acre,which is above optimal for maximizing productivity for this species mix and size of trees. There is approximately 7,000 board feet of volume per acre,the majority of which is scarlet oak with some black oak as well. Species composition in this stand is somewhat uniform and is almost completely oak(scarlet, black and white). The white oak is found in the poletimber size class. There were no seedlings noted in the stand and saplings were mostly red maple. Walpole sandy loam makes up the soil type in this stand. Again, site index for oak for this soil type was not available, but as the trees were tall and there were significant 4, 1 volumes/acre it can be assumed that this is a good site for ro ,_ growing trees;especially oak. Tree health appears to be decent aside from minimal issues with form, and some storm damage. There were no obvious insect or disease infestations. Left:This part of the property sustained somewhat less damage to tree tops in recent storms than occurred in Stand 1. Recommendations: In order to maintain and enchance tree vigor and to encourage regeneration of desirable species, some minimal tree cutting can be done here. This stand is very small and it adds important diversity to the rest of the property, so a large scale operation that could potentially change the character of the area is not recommended. However, some small tweaks could potentially improve stand vigor and structural diversity. A crop tree/mast tree release favoring more desirable trees in the stand can help ensure continued vigor and can help with the production of both hard and soft mast. 15 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 2017 — Perform a crop and mast tree release. Crop trees and mast trees should be healthy, vigorous individuals. Attempt to release approximately 5-10 trees if feasible. Retain snags and cavity trees (if found) where possible and where doing so will not be a safety concern. This treatment will be non- commercial. Consider creating brush piles with woody material from felled trees. Area 3: Open wateriwetlands (0.98 Acres) Description: This area is found at the southern end of the maintained area south of the house. It contains a small oblong pond and adjacent wetlands. There are shrubs along the northern end of the pond and trees along the southern end. Some native vegetation including cattail can be found in the northwestern corner of the pond. In addition, the landowners installed a wood duck box which has been successful in housing nesting wood ducks. Above left:View of the length of the pond from near the west end. Above right:The western end of the pond features a successfully colonized wood duck box as well as some plantings the landowners have done to help restore the shoreline of the pond. In addition, the landowners have reduced populations of invasive plants and have augmented vegetative diversity through plantings including species such as cardinal flower. Recommendations: Ongoing — Continue efforts to keep this area free of any invasive plants. Where feasible continue planting native species especially flowers and shrubs that provide nectar, structure and mast for wildlife. Along the northern shore, consider planting shrubs for structure in places and allowing a narrow area of grass to go unmowed to increase diversity. Also, consider clearing storm damaged trees on the south side of the pond. If they are not interfering with pond functions, the landowners' ability to access the pond, or negatively impacting aesthetics, consider leaving some of the trees for structure. The landowners have also expressed an interest in ensuring clean water and quality fish habitat. To those ends,consider aerating the pond to reduce populations of algae and stocking the pond with fish. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 16 Area 4: Open/developed area (1.64 Acres) Description: This area surrounds both houses and contains the developed area in addition to the yard. The yard contains some fruit trees that the landowners planted as well as a maintained garden. There is a small group of softwood trees along the outside of the stand. There are several bird houses scattered throughout this area. There is a drainage that separates the house and yard from the area where the fruit trees are located. A small footbridge over the drainage allows careful access between the different sections of this area. Above:The fruit trees in the foreground on the left,the softwood trees along the forest edge,and the native shrubs along the pond help to provide structure,diversity and a potential food source for a variety of wildlife. Recommendations: Continue to maintain this area free of invasive plant species. If feasible, consider allowing some of the fruit to go unpicked. Orchard trees can provide excellent foraging grounds for forest nesting birds in migration and again after the nesting season. In addition, consider some additional supplemental plantings of native species that can provide nectar, structure and hard and/or soft mast along the drainage near the barn. Species such as highbush blueberry, cranberry, winterberry, dogwood, and hazelnut may serve these purposes. In sllightly drier areas, encouraging species such as New York ironweed, milkweed and other native flowering plants can provide nectar for native insects and butterflies. 17 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 GENERAL PROPERTY RECOMMENDATIONS • With any activity undertaken on the property,attempt to: 1. Improve forest health and species diversity 2. Improve vertical and horizontal structural diversity, including retaining and recruiting snags and cavity trees where doing so is not counter-productive to the goal of the activity 3. Ensure water quality and soil stability 4. Increase accessibility 5. Limit spread of invasive plant species. Treat any populations of invasives in and adjacent to the area where trees are to be cut prior to forest management activities. • Attempt to exclude populations of invasive plant species. Keep abreast of information regarding invasive insects, especially the emerald ash borer and Asian long-horned beetle. Amend plan to salvage imminently infested stems if necessary. • Attempt to maintain and enhance populations of softwood tree species on the property where doing so will not be contrary to other major goals or activities. • If wolf trees are encountered during treatments, attempt to retain them and/or release around them. This should be done under circumstances in which retaining these trees would not be counterproductive to the goal of the treatment. • Attempt to recruit some large trees scattered throughout the property, even if these trees are not "wolf trees" to increase structural diversity. These large trees could become "legacy trees" and be allowed to mature and die naturally. • Continue to maintain and consider painting western,southern and eastern boundary lines. • Continue to maintain trail to ensure access to some parts of the property. • Where and when appropriate consider working with adjacent landowners (i.e. the South Windsor Land Conservation Trust)to"manage across boundaries". • Follow Connecticut's Field Guide for Best Management Practices for Water Quality while Harvesting Forest Products during any forest management operations. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 18 STAND SPECIFIC PROPERTY RECOMMENDATIONS 1. 2017—Stand 1: If an appropriate operator can be found and if ground conditions all, use single tree and group selection with crop/mast tree release to thin the stand. Focus removals in overstocked areas and remove mature and poorly formed individuals, as well as those showing rot or other defects. This will be a non-commercial operation. a. Follow up with NDDB for a consultation on what activities may protect and/or enhance conditions for any rare plants noted on the property. 2. 2017—Stand 2: Perform a crop and mast tree release. Crop trees and mast trees should be healthy, vigorous individuals. This is a non-commercial operation. Consider creating brush piles with woody material from felled trees. 3. Ongoing — Area 3: Continue efforts to keep this area free of invasive plants. Where feasible, consider planting additional flowers and shrubs. Consider leaving an unmowed area adjacent to the pond to increase diversity. Consider removing storm-damaged trees. Consider aerating and stocking the pond. 4. Ongoing — Area 4: Continue efforts to keep this area free of invasive plants. If feasible, consider leaving some fruits unpicked for wildlife. Consider planting native species along the drainage to the pond and in drier areas. 5. Annually—All areas: Maintain boundaries 6. Annually—All areas: Maintain trail 19 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 SUMMARY OF SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES 2014-2023 Denfeld Summary of Scheduled Activities 2015-2024 Year Stand iTreatment 2017 1 jSingle tree and small group selection with crop/mast tree release 2017 2 Crop tree/mast tree release ;Continue to maintain invasive plant-free. Continue planting,consider Ongoing ; 3 creating a non-mowed area adjacent to the pond. l 'Continue to maintain invasive plant-free. Consider leaving some fruits Ongoing 4 ! :unpickedforwildlife. Annually All Maintain boundaries and trail i i Annually All iTreat invasive plant species where located if resources are available to do so NRCS PRACTICES TO APPLY FOR STAND PRACTICE AMOUNT TREATMENT PLANNED DATE 1 Forest Stand 8.8 acres Thinning/crap/mast tree release 2017 Improvement- 666 2 Forest Stand 1.14 acre Crop tree/mast tree release 2017 Improvement- 666 SOURCES CONSULTED AND/OR CITED British Columbian Ministry of Forests, "Stand Level Biodiversity Web Based Training Course — Module 3A",2002, http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfp/training/00001/module03/standstructure2.htm, accessed on January 2, 2013. Hagenbuch, Steve, Katherine Manaras,Jim Shallow, Kristen Sharpless, and Michael Snyder. Silviculture with Birds in Mind. Huntington &Waterbury,VT:Audubon Vermont&VT FPR, 2011. Printed guide. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 20 MAPS Denfeld NRCS Treatments Map Denfeld Property 643 Strong Road w South Windsor, CT NRCS Practices Map S 4 4 . - �y :f �y QProperty boundaries Feet ®Stand boundaries 0 300 600 -Min-08 ac. Map created 4-28-15 by Eric Hansen I Crop/mast tree release-1.14 ac. Ferrucci&Walicki, LLC. For planning purposes only-not a survey Wetland soils Source: CT DEEP, South WindsorAssessor 21 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 •� r• .r ' -1 . r � • ' •. � .t: � .� � -,►yet � l •y: des• +� T.� 1 p _tj •� ice: ,w to • • � fy _ '� ink rA � r � a t y � c3 " ;ire 16 w"' "-fir. F �s'�' 4?lei � F fR3ll� GLOSSARY aspect The general direction in which land slopes basalarea A commonly used measure of forest density or stocking. It is measured as the cross sectional area of a tree in square feet at 4.5 feet above ground. B-level The stocking level considered optimal for sawtimber growth. board foot A measurement unit for lumber volume. One board foot is a piece of wood 1 foot long by 1 foot wide by 1 inch thick(Abbreviated b.f.) breast height Measurement at which diameter is generally measured for inventory and timber tally purposes. Breast height is measured at 4.5 feet above the ground. Where there is any slope, breast height is always measured from the highest part of the slope where the ground intersects the tree. clearcut An even-age silvicultural technique in which all the trees in an area are severed and—typically— removed. Silvicultural clearcuts generally remove all trees above 2 inches dbh. Commercial clearcuts or "high-grades" remove all the trees of value leaving poorer quality trees of a variety of diameters. clearcut with reserves A modified clearcut in which the majority of the trees in an area are cut, but some minimal trees are left standing. Typically reserve trees will allow to mature and will not be cut. This differs from a shelterwood or seed tree harvest in that residual trees following the initial regeneration cut are intended for removal. clear log A length of tree stem or cut log that has no horizontal(i.e.side) branches. coppice A sprout from roots or stumps. Or a practice of cutting a tree or group of trees to cause them to resprout from the stump or roots. cord A measurement unit for firewood. One cord of stacked wood measures 4 feet by 4 feet by 8 feet. 1 cord contains 85 cubic feet of solid wood. (Abbreviated cd) crown The top of the tree, including the live branches and the leaves. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 24 cruise An inventory of standing trees during which information about species,size and other characteristics is gathered. cull A tree of such poor quality that it is not suitable for sawtimber. Culls are sometimes sold for firewood. dbh Diameter of a tree outside the bark measured at breast height den tree A tree with a hollow or cavity large enough to potentially be used by wildlife(a.k.a.cavity tree) even-age management Managing trees in such a way that it creates a single or two age classes in a stand. girdle To attempt to kill a tree by cutting through the outer bark and cambium around its entire circumference. hardwood A deciduous, broadleaf tree. Angiosperm. high-grade A logging practice in which only the best trees are removed leaving poorer quality and/or damaged trees. International Rule A type of log(measuring) rule. The International Rule is the legal standard for measuring sawtimber in Connecticut. live crown ratio The ratio of live crown length to total tree height. mast Seeds and nuts produced by trees and shrubs. Mast is often discussed in terms of hard and soft and is crucial to providing food for wildlife. mbf One thousand board feet(of sawtimber)or"a thousand". overstory The portion of trees in a stand which form the upper canopy. overstory removal An even age silvicultural treatment type in which most or all of the overstory trees are removed in order to release established regeneration. 25 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 poletimber Trees from 5 to 11 inches diameter at breast height(4.5 feet above ground). Also pole or pole tree. regeneration New trees,generally seedlings,saplings and sprouts. Regenerating a forest involves replacing existing trees with new ones. release To free a desirable tree from competition by cutting or otherwise killing one or more adjacent competing trees or shrubs. sapling A tree from 1 to 5 inches diameter. sawlog A log that is straight, large and sound enough to be sawn into boards. Sawlogs are usually at least 8 feet long and ten inches or larger in diameter. sawtimber tree A tree large enough to contain at least one sawlog. (Saw)timber trees are usually twelve inches or larger in diameter outside the bark at breast height. seedling A tree from newly germinated up to 1 inch diameter. Selection System A silvicultural system involving the removal of individual trees or groups of trees at regular intervals. This system tends to promote the development of uneven aged forests. Shelterwood System A silvicultural system whereby new trees are regenerated under the partial shelter of other trees.This system is one of the options available to regenerate a stand or part of a stand to create an even aged or two-aged forest.(The latter occurs when the overstory trees are not removed following the successful regeneration of trees in the understory). silvicultural system A planned program of silvicultural treatments during the entire life of a stand. The main focus is on the methods used to obtain desirable regeneration. silviculture The science and the art of growing and tending trees for a variety of purposes. slash The debris left after logging,mg,pruning or thinning. Slash can include tree tops and unused or unusable portions of the main stems of trees. Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 26 stand type A group or community of trees sufficiently uniform with respect to size,species composition,spatial arrangement,age or condition to be distinguished from other groups of trees. stocking An indication of the amount or density of trees in a stand. stumpage Standing trees,usually associated with volume information and intended for sale. thinning A cutting done in immature stands in order to maintain tree health and vigor,stimulate the growth of the trees that remain and increase the total yield of useful material from the stand. tolerance The relative ability of a tree species to survive and/or grow in shade. timber stand improvement Improving a stand of trees,usually by pruning,cull-tree removal or pre-commercial thinning. (Abbreviated TSI) uneven-age management Managing trees in such a way that it creates three or more age classes in a stand. The selection system is most often used to develop uneven-age stands. 27 Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 SOILS MAP & NDDB RESPONSE TO REQUEST Information regarding these topics can be found on the pages below Denfeld Property—Forest Management Plan 2015 28 3 Soil Map—State of Connecticut (Denfeld Property) 700510 700M 700630 700690 700750 700810 700870 700930 700990 701050 41°SOP WN 41°W24"N 41°W 12'N 41°SO 1P N 700510 7005M 700630 700690 700750 700810 700870 700930 700M 701050 3 3 io �+ n Map Sole:1:2,590 if printed on A landscape(11"x 86)sheet N 0 35 70 140 210�5 0 100 200 400 600 A Map projection:Web Narrator Comer coordinates:WGS84 Edge tics:Lr M Zone 18N WGS84 USDA Natural Resources Web Soil Survey 4/29/2015 "� Conservation Service National Cooperative Soil Survey Page 1 of 3 Soil Map—State of Connecticut (Denfeld Property) MAP LEGEND MAP INFORMATION Area of Interest(AOI) Spoil Area The soil surveys that comprise your AOI were mapped at 1:12,000. Area of Interest(AOI) Stony Spot Warning:Soil Map may not be valid at this scale. Soils Very Stony Spot Soil Map Unit Polygons Enlargement of maps beyond the scale of mapping can cause wet Spot misunderstanding of the detail of mapping and accuracy of soil line . . Soil Map Unit Lines placement.The maps do not show the small areas of contrasting 0 Soil Map Unit Points Other soils that could have been shown at a more detailed scale. Special Line Features Special Point Features Please rely on the bar scale on each map sheet for map V Blowout Water Features measurements. Streams and Canals Ig Borrow Pit Source of Map: Natural Resources Conservation Service Transportation Web Soil Survey URL: http:/Iwebsoilsurvey.nres.usda.gov Clay spot +44 Rails Coordinate System: Web Mercator(EPSG:3857) {� Closed Depression Interstate Highways Maps from the Web Soil Survey are based on the Web Mercator Gravel Pit US Routes projection,which preserves direction and shape but distorts distance and area.A projection that preserves area,such as the Gravelly Spot Major Roads Albers equal-area conic projection,should be used if more accurate 0 Landfill Local Roads calculations of distance or area are required. A. Lava Flow Background This product is generated from the USDA-NRCS certified data as of the version date(s)listed below. Marsh or swamp ■ Aerial Photography c Mine or Quarry Soil Survey Area: State of Connecticut Survey Area Data: Version 13,Oct 28,2014 0 Miscellaneous water Soil map units are labeled(as space allows)for map scales 1:50,000 Perennial water or larger. Rock outcrop Date(s)aerial images were photographed: Mar 28,2011 Apr 18, + Saline Spot 2011 Sandy Spot The orthophoto or other base map on which the soil lines were compiled and digitized probably differs from the background Severely Eroded Spot imagery displayed on these maps.As a result,some minor shifting Sinkhole of map unit boundaries may be evident. �. 3D Slide or Slip 0 Sodic Spot USDA Natural Resources Web Soil Survey 4/29/2015 Conservation Service National Cooperative Soil Survey Page 2 of 3 Soil Ma"tate of Connecticut Denfeld Property Map Unit Legend State of Connecticut(CT600) Map Unit Symbol Map Unit Name Acres in AOI Percent of AOI 13 Walpole sandy loam,0 to 3 15.3 78.8% percent slopes 15 Scarboro muck,0 to 3 percent 2.5 13.1% slopes 36B Windsor loamy sand,3 to 8 1.6 8.1% percent slopes Totals for Area of Interest 19.4 100.0% USDA Natural Resources Web Soil Survey 4/29/2015 Conservation Service National Cooperative Soil Survey Page 3 of 3 NDDB 201503041: 643 Strong Road; South Windsor STATE-LISTED PLANTS According to our records,the following State-listed plant species have been documented in close proximity to 643 Strong Road and may occur on-site: ■ Barratt's sedge (Carex barrattii) Protection Status: State Endangered Habitat: Swampy woods, graminoid marshes, and wet meadows, usually on sandy soils. Blooms late May,early Jun. ■ Rough aster(Eurybia radula) Protection Status: State Endangered Habitat: Open swamps, shores and moist roadsides. Blooms Jul,Aug, Sep. ■ Climbing fern (Lygodium palmatum) Protection Status: State Special Concern Habitat: Moist pine-oak-maple woods, moist thickets, and stream margins,usually on acidic,nutrient poor soils. Recognizable year-round. If the above species occur on-site,they would likely benefit from management activities that thin the forest canopy over wetland soils. Harvesting or girdling trees would increase light levels in the understory and could enable shade intolerant species, such as Barratt's sedge, to flower and produce seed more reliably. Y Although forest management at 643 Strong Road has the potential to benefit State-listed plant species, I would recommend that the site be surveyed to identify locations of rare plants prior to initiating any management activities. These areas should be flagged and protection measures should be developed to avoid direct impacts to the plants. For questions regarding State-listed plant species, please contact Nelson DeBarros (nel son.debarros a.gov). IWA/CC APPLICATION REVIEW: Name Deborah & K. Chris Denfeld Application# I. Fifteen copies of application Plans filed in duplicate. Application fee(s)paid in full. II. IWWC Application The applicant's name, home and business address,telephone and fax numbers. (page 1 of 3) The owner's name (if applicant is not the owner of the property), home and business addresses, telephone and fax numbers, and written consent to the proposed activity set forth in the application. If applicant is not the owner, state interest in the land. The geographical location of the property which is to be affected by the proposed activity, including a description of the land in sufficient detail to allow identification of the property on the Inland Wetlands and Water Courses Map included the Map# and Parcel# as shown on the Tax Assessor's Map. Names of current adjacent property owners from records in the Town Clerk's office. Proof that all abutting property owners have been notified by certified mail that an application is pending before the Agency. Do Prop. owners Purpose and description of all proposed regulated activity and the time element involved. across the road Amount and kind of material proposed to be removed, or deposited and/or type of use. also get notified? Acreage of regulated area to be altered(wetlands, watercourses, or regulated buffer) Acreage of wetlands and watercourses to be created. . This project does not include Lineal.feet of proposed stream alteration. cutting or filling,topsoil Total land area of project and percentage, which are wetlands. removal or drainage ways. Alternatives considered by the applicant and why the proposal to alter d • Work to remove select tress will application was chosen. be conducted on the existing surface,during frozen ground III. conditions. Stumps to remain • A less than two week time Class A-2 map of the area to be developed, 1"=40', showing the following: period is anticipated for project completion. Designate regulated activities; Existing structures and property lines; Locations of existing watercourses and wetlands, as defined in section 2.1bb and 2.1cc and boundaries of regulated areas defined in section 2.1t. Identify the reference for watercourses and/or wetlands boundaries as shown on the map. The identifying numbers or other reference systems used in field delineation shall verify the limits as shown on the plans and shall submit a written report describing the findings. If the property does not contain any watercourses or wetlands this shall be noted on the plans. Location of 100 year flood lines; Refer to Forest Management Plan Elevations by 2 ft contours; Natural landscape features, woodland and vegetation; 4 r Utilities existing and proposed; Not Applicable; Layout of existing and proposed drainage systems; - No utility services or Layout of existing and proposed sanitary sewers or septic systems; structures in theproject area Proposed open spaces; - No grading or earth Proposed areas of change where material is intended to be deposited or rem Imoving Proposed grading or any earth movement anticipated; Percentage of impervious coverage; 0% Pervious Disposition of stumps; Stumps to remain from 100% Impervious Test pits on site; select tree removal Buildable area as defined in section 2.lc; (see waiver provision in section 8.4); Proposed detention basin, if required, sized for 100 year storm; Work on frozen Proposed soil erosion prevention, sediment control and other soil conservation tre ground conditions showing any proposed sediment basin, diversion dikes, indicating the timing of s with track or ground when topsoil shall be stripped, where topsoil shall be stored and for how long, pressure tires does stabilization shall be used, and be in complete compliance with the guidelines exI not warrant installa- Public Act 83-388, as amended, "An Act Concerning Soil Erosion and Sediment Con tion of S&EC mea- sections 8-2, 8-13d, and 8-25 of the General Statutes of Connecticut. sures, Ground sur- Projected changes in velocity,volume or course of water flow or in the water table face disruption is min- an Drainage is to west side of same IV. No building, pervious property, runoff would Additional Comments: 1. Equipment fitted with low cover remains at 100% go to on-site pond. ground pressure tires or tracks 2. To use slash or woody residue to stabilize forest trails across the site. Attachments A: Plan Narrative B: Basal Area Visual C: CT Wildlife Brush Pile Construction 5 f , TO THE APPLICANT: Section 22a-39-14 of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies requires standardized reporting of local wetland agency decisions to the Commission of the Department of Environmental Protection. In keeping with this requirement the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission must submit the form to the State after a decision is made. Therefore, at the time the application is submitted the application form must be filled out excluding items 9, 10, 11, and 12. You are also responsible for the photocopy of the USGA Quad map location(scale 1"to 2000')as per the instructions (item #2) on the back of the form. The USGA (Manchester Quad) map is available at the PlanningDepartment and photocopies can be made in the Town Clerks office. P p P If you have further questions, feel free to contact Jeffrey H. Folger, Environmental Planner/Conservation Officer,Planning Department, 644-2511,ext. 253. 6 <�W N SF4 C� O c 7-au� o-P S-&u� ?d&id&)t 1540 SULLIVAN AVENUE • SOUTH WINDSOR, CT 06074 soR•co TELEPHONE (860) 644-2511 Certified #70142120000332144228 October 12, 2016 J Ms. Deborah Denfeld 643 Strong Road South Windsor, CT 06074 RE: Jurisdictional Ruling - NRCS Forest and Wildlife Habitat Management Plan Project, at 643 Strong Rd Dear Ms. Denfeld: At the September 7, 2016 regular meeting, the Inland Wetlands Agency/Conservation Commission approved a motion to recognize as a use as of right, implementation of a NRCS Forest and Wildlife Habitat Management Plan Project, at 643 Strong Rd as submitted on plans and narrative dated September 1, 2016, under the Town of South Windsor's Inland Wetland/Watercourse and Conservation Regulations dated October 18, 2000. Very truly yours, Elizabeth A. Warren, Chairperson INLAND WETLANDS AGENCY/ CONSERVATION COMMISSION