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You are here: Main Menu / Analyze Resource Data   INTRODUCTION Up to this point in the conservation planning process, we have discussed the following topics in the preceding modules: Overview National conservation forestry statistics Scope and diversity of conservation forestry activities and concerns Preplanning Activities Common preplanning activities Inventory Resources (Planning Steps 1 - 3) Process for noting and documenting client problems, objectives, and inventory data In this module, we will use the information gathered during the previous modules to full advantage to analyze and interpret inventory data (Planning Step 4). This module will set the stage and benchmark conditions used during the "decision support" phase of planning that will follow in the next module. The NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook lists the inputs and products from planning step 4. MODULE OBJECTIVES After completion of this module, planners will be able to: Identify and describe resource analysis tools, methods, and references used to compare existing conditions with quality criteria. Define "Quality Criteria" and how they are used to assess and clarify resource problems and concerns. Compare resource inventory data with quality criteria and client objectives. Organize the planning unit scenario into appropriate conservation management units. THE GOALS OF ANALYSIS After the inventory process is complete, an analysis of the data is necessary to: Validate problems identified by the client Firm up objectives Set benchmark conditions to prepare for decision support Clients who participate in the analysis of resource data gain an understanding of the basic ecosystem concepts and are better prepared to make informed decisions later in the planning process. The analysis of resource data and issues may also point out opportunities that the client has not recognized. Recreation Activities such as fee hunting, camping, bed and breakfast, fishing, hiking, bird watching Alley Cropping Planting of trees or shrubs in conjunction with agronomic, horticultural, or forage crops Forest Farming Cultivating high value specialty products, such as medicinal herbs, decorative items, specialty wood items, and edibles in conjunction with growing timber Silvopasture Managing timber and livestock as a single integrated system Analysis is done to provide insight into natural resource information for the planner and to present that information in a meaningful and understandable form to the client. Inputs of Planning Critical inputs to analyzing resource conditions are: Client’s objectives Field inventories Problem identification processes Evaluation tools Reference sources The analyses should clearly establish the cause and effect relationships and provide information about existing (benchmark) conditions. Analysis of inventory data will help clarify the products from previous planning steps. Typically, during the planning process, "Inventory Resources" (step 3) and "Analyze Resource Data" (step 4) are done concurrently for many of the resource conditions. This approach is effective in providing quick feedback to the client and makes planning more efficient. However, certain analyses may require use of more complicated computations or models done at a later time in the office or during a subsequent visit with the client. EXERCISE Answer the following questions to check your knowledge of the information presented in this topic. Choose the correct letter(s) to answer the question. Resource analysis is done to: Help local governments keep abreast of client activities Provide insight into natural resource information for the planner Present information in a meaningful and understandable form to the client Choices B and C Clients need to understand which important relationship in the analysis process? Financial constraints concepts Basic ecosystem concepts Federal and state jurisdictional concepts Plate tectonic behavior and concepts Answers: 1 (d); 2 (b) RESOURCE ANALYSIS Analysis is done to fulfill two main objectives: Provide insight into natural resource information for the planner Present that information in a meaningful and understandable form to the client Analysis of the resource data will also help clarify the products from previous planning steps. The client’s objectives, resource problems, land and resource uses, time and cost constraints, and the location of the planning area will help determine the types of analyses needed to evaluate the existing conditions. Proper and applicable analyses characterize the existing resource conditions in standard units of measure for each conservation management unit (CMU) (benchmark conditions). For resources that do not currently meet quality criteria levels or client expectations, changes to these benchmark conditions will need to be addressed and resource management systems developed. The NRCS National Forestry Manual, National Forestry Handbook, electronic Field Office Technical Guide (eFOTG), and other similar sources can provide helpful guidance and explain procedures appropriate for site and resource analyses. The eFOTG is the primary scientific reference for NRCS. It contains an array of technical information and data concerning soil, water, air, and related plant and animal resources. Examples of analysis include: Using ecological site descriptions and forest inventory information to determine site capabilities and production levels Reviewing the findings of the cultural resources inventory to evaluate the presence of native artifacts along an access road Recognizing cause and effect relationships between planning areas or between resources themselves Identifying resource stressors, such as drifting snow around HQ, stream bank trampling by livestock, or rutted forest trails, which are either natural or human induced actions or events that cause changes in the existing condition of an ecological system In instances where the kind or extent of resource problems exceeds the analysis expertise or resources of the planner, seek the assistance of an appropriate specialist, agency, or organization. CONDUCTING THE ANALYSIS The analysis begins by choosing the resource analysis tools, methods, and references required to assess and judge the state of existing resource conditions. The analysis may use one or more of the approaches shown here. Click on each one to learn more: Procedural For some resource conditions, the analysis procedure is well defined. An example is determining forest stocking levels, which actually has a variety of acceptable procedural methods. Prediction Prediction using a model or algorithm may be the most appropriate and accurate means of estimating certain resource conditions. Examples include estimating sheet and rill erosion using RUSLE2, estimating wildfire hazard using a hazard rating system, and estimating wildlife habitat using a spreadsheet or wildlife habitat suitability model. Models require unbiased raw data (from step 3 inventories) to yield a usable and meaningful assessment of current conditions. Observation and Deduction For other resource conditions, standard or accepted procedures or models do not exist. Determination of the resource condition may need to rely on simple observation and then judging the significance of that observation. An example is the formation of a skid trail with a classic gully that has unstable side slopes, head-cutting, and active erosion in the gully bottom. The observation of these characteristics is followed by a deduction that the status of these conditions is undesirable or unacceptable. A second example is the presence of certain wildlife species. If a particular fish species is commonly present, the planner makes a deduction that there is sufficient habitat for that species. If the fish species is not present in another stream reach having the same habitat, the planner deduces that some barrier is blocking their access. Assessing off site effects frequently uses an observation-deduction approach. Section III, Quality Criteria, of the NRCS eFOTG contains additional listings of appropriate assessment tools grouped by resource concern. State level quality criteria provide indicators and guidance for appropriate methods or combination of methods to use for each resource consideration. View each of these concerns to find out its appropriate assessment tools: Soil Concerns RUSLE2 (Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, second edition) WEQ (Wind Erosion Equation) Visual observations Soil volume calculations Soil tests Soil survey Water Concerns Client chemical application records WIN-PST (Windows Pesticide Screening Tool) Temperature readings Water tests Visual observation Air Concerns Visual observations Air quality data WEQ (Wind Erosion Equation) Pesticide labels Client input Plant Concerns Stand measurements Client input Visual observation Stocking charts Species composition Conservation Tree and Shrub Suitability Groups Animal Concerns (both wild and domestic) Wildlife habitat evaluations Grazing evaluation forms Client input Visual observation Human and Cultural Concerns Client input Visual observations Cultural resource maps Inventories The methods and terminology found in eFOTG, Section III, Quality Criteria represent the best available approaches for field planning purposes. Quality criteria are upgraded as and when the procedures, models, or methods used by other agencies or research institutions become refined and appropriate for widespread field use. Individual states can modify quality criteria to more accurately address local conditions. Client input and perceptions must be integrated into the analysis process. It is imperative that analyses and outcomes are done so that clients are fully aware of resource conditions associated with their planning unit. Awareness should include the extent and significance of various resource condition problems and interactions of problems onsite and off site. For best results, the planner and client should reach consensus on benchmark conditions before progressing to the decision-support phase of planning. EXERCISE Answer the following questions to check your knowledge of the information presented in this topic. Choose the correct letter(s) to answer the question. Determining forest stocking levels is an example of what type of resource analysis? Procedural Prediction Observation Deduction What analysis tools could be used to analyze benchmark levels for plant resource concerns? Client observation Stocking charts RUSLE2 Answers: 1 (a); 2 (a, b) ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY Three important forestry analysis tools are regularly used in conservation planning. In this topic, we'll take a detailed look at each of these tools. Stocking Rules, Charts, and Diagrams - Stocking rules, charts, and diagrams are used to evaluate current stand densities. Wildfire Hazard Worksheets - Wildfire hazard worksheets are used to rate sites for the potential of wildfire. Soil Survey Data and Interpretations - Soil survey data and interpretations are used to determine the potentials and limitations of soils. STOCKING RULES, CHARTS, AND DIAGRAMS Stocking rules, charts, and diagrams are effective means to evaluate existing stands to determine whether the stand is overstocked, fully stocked, or understocked. Once the current stand is analyzed, actions needed for desired future conditions can be developed and used to meet quality criteria levels and client objectives. There are two approaches available: 'D + x' spacing guides Gingrich spacing diagram We'll discuss each approach and its application to the Fir Planning unit. A Word of Caution Note that many spacing and density guides typically apply only to even-aged stands where tree heights, diameters, and, of course, age, are fairly uniform. Analysis of stocking for uneven-aged stands is more complicated because the species of tree are normally evaluated by their distribution among a series of diameter classes as compared to a desired distribution. In uneven-aged stand conditions, the planner is advised to consult with agency and private foresters. 'D + X' SPACING GUIDES For planning purposes, the D + x "rule of thumb" is adequate to approximate stand stocking for wood production from even-aged stands. According to the D + x rule, the average optimum spacing between trees should equal the average stand diameter (D) plus a constant (x), expressed in feet. The constant x varies, depending on site location, tree type, and anticipated use. In Southern States, a constant of 6 is most commonly used for southern pines. In Western States, the constant can range from 4 or 5 for West Coast Douglas fir, to 5 to 8 for ponderosa pine. For stands with average diameters less than 6 inches, constants of 4 in the East and 2 in the West are commonly used. For agroforestry situations, constants are usually associated with wider spacing to allow more sunlight to reach the forest floor where non-timber crops are being grown. Constants for agroforestry are typically higher than those used for wood production. They may range from 8 for forest farming to 12 or more for open silvopasture settings. Local standards and specifications will provide guidance on spacing requirements for agroforestry applications. An evaluation of forest stand stocking can be completed by knowing the desired D + x spacing and using Table 1. For example, assume that "6" is the desired spacing constant "x" for the conifer stand in CMU 2c. Computations using the zigzag transect data from the Inventory Resources module indicates the average tree diameter is currently 13 inches and the average number of trees per acre is 150. Using the table, the desired number of trees per acre of 13 inch trees at D + 6 equals 121. Therefore, in this case, the stand was overstocked by 29 trees per acre (150 -121). An alternative to using the table is mathematically computing the desired number of trees per acre by the formula 43,560 ft2 ¸ (D + x)2 and comparing the existing trees per acre to this calculation. In the example for CMU 2c, 43,560 ft2 ¸ (13 + 6)2 = 121. The current number of trees per acre is 150, again resulting in an overstocked condition of 29 trees per acre (150-121). But what exactly is overstocking? To know what overstocking is, we first need to understand the concept of "fully stocked." A forest stand is considered fully stocked based on the availability of sufficient light and growing space for the crowns of trees to grow optimally (or nearly so) for a specific purpose. A typical purpose is using the stems of trees for dimension lumber and plywood. At optimum levels, trees have enough room to utilize light and soil moisture and nutrients for maximum tree height and diameter growth. Too few trees in a stand (understocking) under utilizes light, moisture, and nutrient resources, resulting in less wood volume per acre and trees having a proportionally higher number of big limbs unsuited for lumber or plywood. Too many trees in a stand (overstocking) will force trees to "share" limited light, moisture, and nutrients resulting in reduced vigor, heights, diameters, and volume per tree. GINGRICH SPACING DIAGRAM Another approach to analyzing stocking levels of even-aged stands is the Gingrich stand density and stocking diagram requiring inputs of basal area and number of trees per acre. When the stand inventory has been completed, the diagram can be used to determine stocking percent and stocking levels (overstocked, fully stocked, or understocked). Let's consider an example The variable plot inventory of the upland hardwood site in CMU 2c indicates the measured basal area is 120 square feet and the average number of trees per acre is calculated to be 220. Using the Gingrich spacing diagram, we locate the point where the total basal area (120 sq. ft) and the number of trees (220 trees) intersect to find the current stocking percent (105 %, overstocked) and average tree diameter (10 inches). The analysis of the inventory data shows that the stand is overstocked with reduced tree growth and production. To determine desired stocking, we must move "down" along the 10-inch average diameter line to the 80% stocking line (mid-point of fully stocked). At this intersection point, we read straight to the left for a new basal area goal (92 sq. ft) and straight down to a new trees per acre goal (170). Using this chart, the stand is overstocked by approximately 50 trees per acre (220 - 170) and 28 square feet (120 - 92) of basal area. EXERCISE Answer the following questions to check your knowledge of the information presented in this topic. Choose the correct letter(s) to answer the question. For unit 2C, after using the zigzag transect method, the average conifer diameter for the northern stand was 13.1 inches, the trees/acre was 150. Assuming the desired constant was 8, how many trees would need to be removed to meet a D + 8 spacing? 29 50 89 100 What is the current level of stocking for the hardwood stand in unit 2C (basal area = 120 ft2 and 220 trees/acre)? Overstocked Fully stocked Understocked Really stocked Answers: 1 (b); 2 (a) WILDFIRE HAZARDS Every forested area has the potential to be threatened or destroyed by wildfire. Conversely, natural wildfire is an essential process in many ecosystems. Both human caused and natural wildfires pose a great danger to human life, property, and natural resources where human habitation interfaces with managed or "wild" forests. Below are some facts and statistics on the wildfire phenomenon in the US. In 2000, 7.5 million acres burned in the U.S. This is an area roughly equal to the size of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Delaware combined. Wildfires affect most areas of the U.S. on "wildlands" (unmanaged forest areas). Some of the most significant fires in recent years have taken place in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, and popular areas such as Yellowstone National Park and Mesa Verde National Park. More than 100 years of suppressing fires, combined with past land use practices, have resulted in a heavy buildup of dead vegetation, dense stands of trees, an increase in species that have not evolved and adapted to fire, and occasionally an increase in non-native, fire-prone plants. Because of these conditions, today's fires tend to be larger, burn hotter, and spread farther and faster, making them more severe. At least 860 structures, mostly family homes, were destroyed in fires during the 2000 season. Homeowners have many options to help save their homes from wildfires, such as constructing the roof and exterior structure of a dwelling with non-combustible or fire resistant materials (tile, slate, sheet iron, aluminum, brick, or stone), constructing firebreaks, and removing nearby, flammable "ladder" fuels. WILDFIRE INFLUENCING FACTORS An effective analysis tool to determine the potential for a wildfire in a particular area is a wildfire hazard worksheet. It can be filled out using onsite resource conditions with rating criteria in order to predict a potential wildfire hazard level. Numerous worksheets are available for this purpose. For this course, a Wildfire Hazard Assessment Worksheet has been developed. The worksheet includes five forest resource-related factors that have a major influence (excluding climatic conditions) on fire behavior: Forest Vegetation (Overstory) Crown forest fires present a significant hazard due to their rapid spread. A crown fire is more likely to occur and spread rapidly in dense coniferous forests than in mixed-wood or deciduous forests. Surface Vegetation Surface vegetation includes grasses, herbs, shrubs, dead and down woody (logs, branches, and twigs), and immature trees up to 8 feet in height. Concentrations of surface fuels will sustain high intensity surface fires and can move up into the overstory and initiate crown fires. Ladder Fuels Ladder fuels are shrubs, immature trees, and branches extending near the ground (e.g. within 6 feet) that give surface fires a pathway to the upper canopies of the trees and increase the likelihood of a crown fire. Slope Slope has a direct effect on fire’s rate of spread. The steeper the slope, the faster the rate of spread. Even slopes have a smooth or rolling texture. Gullied slopes have cuts running up the slope, usually from water erosion, which provide funnels for upslope wind-driven fire spread. Slope Position The location of the zone or site on the slope will affect the fire hazard levels. In general, locations higher up on the slopes with fuels below face a significantly higher fire hazard from rapid, high intensity fire spread up the slope. WILDFIRE HAZARD RATINGS The Wildfire Hazard Assessment Worksheet for Unit 2C indicates a low wildfire hazard rating for the southern hardwood area and a moderate rating for the northern conifer area. In Unit 3, the calculated wildfire hazard rating for the bottomland area was "low" but was "high" for the forested area east of Noname Creek. The steeply sloping forested area west of Noname Creek near the headquarters was rated extreme for wildfire hazard (Refer to the completed worksheet for CMU 3-steep). This extreme wildfire hazard rating is due to a dense conifer canopy, abundance of dead and downed wood (insect and disease), and steep slopes. An additional concern is its close proximity to the headquarters area and public road, which are potential sources for igniting a wildfire. "High" and "extreme" ratings should be a definite concern for any client. Immediate consideration should be given to this area to mitigate the potential wildfire hazard. EXERCISE Answer the following question to check your knowledge of the information presented in this topic. Choose the correct letter(s) to answer the question. What factor on the Wildfire Hazard Assessment Worksheet has the most influence on the potential hazard level rating for wildfire? Surface vegetation Ladder fuels Climatic condition Forest overstory vegetation Answers: 1 (d) SOIL DATA AND INTERPRETATIONS Many aspects of resource analysis are related to and influenced by characteristics and properties of the soil beneath our houses, roads, farms, ranches, forests, and parks. Tools relating to forestry resource analysis include soil survey report data and the corresponding soil interpretations located in the eFOTG, Section II, County Soil Information. A soil survey report is an effective reference tool available to help land users and planners determine the potentials and limitations of soils relating to forestry planning and analysis. Copies of reports are available from the Natural Resources Conservation Service at many local offices throughout the United States. A soil survey report is prepared by soil scientists and it: Contains soils data for one or more counties Displays properties of soils Gives detailed soil maps Provides specific map unit descriptions Predicts soil behavior for a variety of uses The predictions, called soil interpretations, are developed to help users of soils effectively manage the resource. Interpretations involve predictions about soil behavior or soil attributes. These known or obtainable sets of properties or characteristics of soils are used to predict other attributes of soil, such as shrink-swell potential for buildings or frost-heave potential for planted tree seedlings. Sources of Interpretation Information The most current, up-to-date interpretation information from a soil survey is found in eFOTG, Section II, County Soil Information. In-depth discussions and rating criteria for forestry-related interpretations can be found in the National Forestry Manual and Handbook. CONSIDERATIONS IN USING INTERPRETATIONS Soil interpretations provide numerical and descriptive information pertaining to a wide range of soil properties. This information can be expressed in classes and units of measure. Soil properties that limit the land use or establish the severity of the limitation are usually indicated. A number of considerations should be kept in mind with the use of soil survey interpretations: An interpretation has a specific purpose. Applicability of interpretations for a specific area of land is inherently limited. This limitation arises from the variability in the composition of delineations within a map unit. The inherent variability of soils in nature defines the restraints in soil interpretations and the precision of soil behavior predictions for specific areas. Certain considerations that determine the economic value of land are not part of soil interpretations. Some interpretations are more sensitive to changes in technology and land uses than others. Interpretations based on properties of the soil in place are only applicable if characteristics of the area are similar to what they were when the soil mapping was done. In the next few screens, we will examine two types of soil interpretations, namely: Map Unit Interpretations Group Interpretations MAP UNIT INTERPRETATIONS Map Unit Interpretations, found in Section II, are an integral part of analysis and decision making. These interpretations help provide the client and planner guidance into what forestry-related problems and/or opportunities may occur based on inherent soil characteristics by map units. For example, a soil map unit that has a clay surface texture may be rated "very limited - low strength" for a "natural surface road." This rating indicates to the planner that the road needs to be relocated or that mitigation for low strength properties should be developed to make the road functional for the intended use. The interpretation tables for the Fir Planning Unit contain useful interpretive information by soil name/map unit. Interpretation Tables for Fir Planning Unit Forest Productivity Forest Management 1 Forest Management 2 Physical Properties Water Management Water Features Engineering Properties Land Capability and Yields Windbreak and Environmental Plantings To demonstrate the use of these tables, consider tree seedling survival issues using the table Forest Management 2. Upon reviewing the interpretative information for "seedling survival", two soil map units, Delta 0-2% and Alpha 0-2% indicate moderately limited and limited ratings, respectively. Further analysis of information reveals that the two soil map units have limiting ratings due to dramatically different features. The Delta map unit is limiting due to flooding and the Alpha map unit is limiting due to drought. In addition, the higher relative value for the Alpha map unit indicates that this limiting factor is more severe and may require more intensive mitigation activities to overcome droughtiness than the Delta soil map unit with its flooding issues. GROUP INTERPRETATIONS Group Interpretations are another form of interpretive information. While interpretations for specific map units predominate in the eFOTG, highly integrative generalized interpretations have also been made for management groups based on common soil attributes. Management groups identify soils that require similar kinds of practices to achieve acceptable performance for a given soil use. The number of classes for a management group depends on the: Range of soil properties Intensity of use Purpose of the groupings Target audience Amount of pertinent information available to set up the groups An example of a useful group interpretation that can be used for analysis work is NRCS Conservation Tree/Shrub Groups (CTSG). A CTSG is a grouping of soils having similar climatic and edaphic characteristics that control the selection and height growth of trees and shrubs. CTSG’s were developed to assure satisfactory species selection and adaptation to specified conditions of soil, climate, and physiography. The CTSG grouping criteria are based on inherent soil properties and include the following among others: Depth to a restrictive layer Available water capacity Flooding frequency Depth to water table pH levels Electrical conductivity Sodium adsorption ratio A detailed discussion of possible groups and their criteria can be found in the National Forestry Manual. These group interpretations are a guide for selecting species best suited for different kinds of soil and for predicting height growth and effectiveness. An example product from the CTSG procedure is the Windbreak and Environmental Plantings list discussed earlier in the Preplanning Activities module. EXERCISE Answer the following questions to check your knowledge of the information presented in this topic. Choose the correct letter(s) to answer the question. From the Forest Productivity Interpretation Table, which soil map unit has the highest potential for tree growth? Ceda, 25-40% Beta, 3-8% Delta, 0-2% Epsilon, 10-25% Which of the following is not a grouping criterion for NRCS Conservation Tree/Shrub Groups? Depth to restrictive layer Depth to water table Flooding frequency Slope pH Answers: 1 (c); 2 (d) COMPARING ANALYSIS RESULTS After initial analysis tools have been used to appraise the status of benchmark conditions, the information needs to be evaluated in relation to site potentials. Following are some of the things that planners can assist the clients to determine: Desirability of tree species for the products, production, and economic returns desired Health of existing forest stands Effects of current management programs on plant and animal communities Wildlife habitat values in relation to potential for the site Significance of cultural resources, if present Presence of endangered or threatened plant or animal species Opportunity for new enterprises Feasibility of the current forest community and site management providing the desired attributes of production, habitat, water quality and quantity, air quality, and soil protection QUALITY CRITERIA AND CLIENT OBJECTIVES The analysis should also include the comparison of benchmark conditions with quality criteria in the FOTG, Section III, and client objectives. Quality criteria data helps to determine the kind, amount, and extent of existing and potential resource problems. The identification of the resources that need treatment is a critical step in the planning process. The results of the procedural, observation, prediction, and deduction inventory and analyses are compared to applicable quality criteria statements to determine the status of benchmark conditions. Let us view some examples for the Fir Planning Unit relating to each of the following concerns relative to quality criteria: Soil Concerns - CMU 1b Volume calculations show that the eroding area is losing 100 tons/year and that head cutting is visible during the year. Because the area is not stable and is showing active head cutting, quality criteria are not being met. Natural Resource Concern Description of Concern National Quality Criteria Assessment Tools for Quality Criteria Evaluation Soil Erosion - Ephemeral Gully Small channels caused by surface water runoff degrade soil quality and tend to increase in size. On cropland, they can be obscured by heavy tillage. Surface water runoff is controlled sufficiently to stabilize the small channels and prevent reoccurrence of new channels. Visual assessment Volume calculation Air Concerns - CMU HQ The client has indicated that dust in the spring is common around the headquarter area which creates added work to keep the area clean and functional. WEQ calculations from the adjacent unit (1a) reveal a wind erosion rate of "10 tons/ac/yr" that is double the tolerance value ("T") for the Alpha soil of "5 tons/ac/yr". Because dust is creating maintenance and visibility problems in and around the headquarters area, treatment alternatives will need to be developed. Natural Resource Concern Description of Concern Quality Criteria Assessment Tools for Quality Criteria Evaluation Air Quality - Particulate matter less than 10 micrometers in diameter (PM 10) Particulate matter less than 10 micrometers in diameter are suspended in the air causing potential health hazards to humans and animals. Land use and management operations comply with PM 10 requirements of the State or Federal Implementation Plan and all applicable Federal, Tribal, State, and Local regulations (Note: At a minimum, use wind erosion tolerance "T" for the applicable soil type) Specific guidelines contained in State or Federal Implementation Plan; or other approved NRCS tool. (Note: At a minimum, use WEQ) Air quality analysis Water Concerns (stream) - Unit 2a Livestock is observed along the stream and spring area. Stream banks are being trampled and sediment pads are noted in shallow areas of the stream along with suspended silts and clays in the water. A Stream Visual Assessment Protocol rating of 2.5 (Poor) was calculated for the existing stream reach. Because livestock access is uncontrolled and creating a negative impact on water quality, treatment alternatives will need to be developed. Natural Resource Concern Description of Concern Quality Criteria Assessment Tools for Quality Criteria Evaluation Water Quality - Excessive Suspended Sediment and Turbidity in Surface Water Pollution from mineral or organic particles degrades surface water quality. Movement of mineral and organic particles is managed such that surface water uses are not adversely affected. (Note: At a minimum, use an SVAP rating of 7.5) Visual assessment Client interview SVAP (Stream Visual Assessment Protocol - USDA/NRCS) Water Quality Indicators Guide - Surface Waters, Field Sheets 1A and 1B (Terrene Institute ©1996) Surface water chemical/particle sampling and assay Plant Concerns (forestland) - Unit 2C Using a target D+x constant of "8", a forest zig-zag inventory for the northern conifer stand indicated that the stand was overstocked and needed approximately 50 trees/acre removed (50% above the optimum level of 100 trees/acre to achieve a D+8 spacing) to meet optimum stocking levels. Because stand densities exceed the +/- 25% quality criteria levels by another 25 percent (50 - 25 = 25%), treatment alternatives will need to be developed. Natural Resource Concern Description of Concern Quality Criteria Assessment Tools for Quality Criteria Evaluation Plant Condition - Productivity, Health and Vigor Plants do not produce the yields, quality, and soil cover to meet client objectives. Selected plants on or planned for the site are sufficiently productive to meet or exceed client needs. For specific land uses, additional criteria apply: Cropland: A healthy stand with vigorous growth produces at least 75% of site potential. Rangeland: The plant community has a similarity index of at least 60% or an upward trend for similarity indices less than 60%. Pastureland: Forage yields are at least 75% of high management estimates cited in FSG reports. Hayland: Forage yields at least 75% of high mgt. estimates cited in Forage Suitability Groups (FSG) reports Forestland/Agroforest: Forests consist of healthy stands with vigorous growth having a stand density within 25% of optimum stocking on a stems/acre basis. Plants chosen for agroforest applications are consistent with Conservation Tree and Shrub Groups (CTSG) listings and height performance. Local agronomy guides Client interview Plant tissue and harvest analysis Crop scouting NRCS discipline manuals/handbooks National Range and Pasture Handbook Ecological Site Descriptions Rangeland Similarity Index Worksheet Rising plate meter Forage Suitability Groups (FSG) Electronic probe calibrated for the forage mixture, or a clip and weigh sampling procedure. Plot sampling of understory vegetation Soil survey reports Soil Testing Crop/soil yield comparison in the vicinity Pasture Condition Scoring Keys for disease and insect symptoms Keys for nutrient deficiencies, toxicities, and other conditions Rangeland Health Assessment Stocking rate of desired species Plot sampling of understory vegetation Stocking measurement for the tree stands Conservation Tree and Shrub Groups (CTSG) Animal Concerns (wildlife) - Unit 3 Existing and surrounding woods, pastureland, and stream corridor provide adequate general wildlife food, cover and shelter. Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Guide (WHEG) index is 0.5. Because the current WHEG (0.5) exceeds quality criteria requirements of 0.3, no treatment alternatives will need to be developed. Natural Resource Concern Description of Concern Quality Criteria Assessment Tools for Quality Criteria Evaluation Fish and Wildlife - Inadequate Cover/Shelter Cover/shelter for the species of concern is unavailable or inadequate. For aquatic species, this includes lack of hiding, thermal, and/or refuge cover. The ecosystem or habit types support the necessary plant species in the kinds, amounts, and physical structure; and the connectivity of fish and wildlife cover is adequate to support, over time, the species of concern. (Note: At a minimum, use a WHEG of 0.3 for all land uses; use 0.7 on lands with wildlife as a primary management objective) Visual assessment Inventory of cover/shelter Aerial photo analysis State Adapted Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Guide National Biology Handbook Human Concerns - Unit 2b Cultural items where noted along a road cut. A later consultation with the NRCS archaeologist, as specified in the policy*, resulted in a record check of the area for known cultural resource sites. The record check confirmed that this was a known site, which had been recorded 40 years ago. No additional activity is needed. Human Concern Description of Concern Consideration Assessment Tools for Evaluation Significance - Cultural Having or expressing cultural meaning or importance. Significance of the cultural resource is determined by qualified cultural resource personnel as outlined by the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO). National Register of Historic Places; SHPO guidelines; Observations EXERCISE Answer the following questions to check your knowledge of the information presented in this topic. Choose the correct letter(s) to answer the question. Which section of the FOTG contains quality criteria? Section I Section II Section III Section V Which of the examples from the above text for resource concerns currently meet or exceed quality criteria? Soil - unit 1b Water - unit 2a Air - HQ Plants - unit 2c Animals - unit 3 Answers: 1 (c); 2 (e) PRESENTING DATA An important part of resource condition analysis is assembly and display of data, outcomes, and the effects of maintaining the status quo. By defining and displaying "effects" in an understandable format, the planner and client can progress efficiently to the decision support phase of planning. The use of the NRCS-CPA-53 (Conservation Effects Benchmark Management System) that was started in the Inventory Resources module will be continued to document the analysis results. This form, when completed, displays the resource problems and concerns (based on Section III, Quality Criteria) and environmental effects if benchmark conditions (i.e., Benchmark Management System) continue. For the Fir Planning Unit, study the completed NRCS-CPA-53s. Using the "53s" and the Planning Unit Map from the Inventory Resources module, think about how CMUs could be combined or separated based on client objectives and the analysis of inventory data. Consider combining units that have similar conditions and potential; separate those that are dissimilar. These final determination and delineation of CMUs will simplify later planning activities. NRCS-CPA-53s CMU HQ CMU 1a CMU 1b CMU 2a CMU 2b CMU 2c CMU 3 EXERCISE Answer the following questions to check your knowledge of the information presented in this topic. Choose the correct letter(s) to answer the question. Which existing CMUs could be further refined with additional CMUs? CMU 1b CMU’s 2c, 3 CMU’s 1a, 1b, HQ CMU’s 2b, 3 In reference to the Planning Unit Map - Module 4, which slide best organizes CMUs into a final configuration? Slide 1 Slide 2 Slide 3 Slide 4 Answers: 1 (b); 2 (c) MODULE SUMMARY This module focused on the analysis and evaluation of soil, water, air, plant, animal, and human resource conditions based on inventory data. Understanding the status of benchmark conditions validates identified problems, helps the client refine objectives, and sets the stage for the next phase of planning, namely decision support. Integrating client input and perceptions into the resource analysis process is extremely important. It is imperative that the analyses and outcomes are done so that the clients are fully aware of resource conditions associated with their planning unit. Awareness should include the extent and significance of various resource condition problems and the interactions of problems onsite and off site. For best results, the planner and the client should reach consensus on benchmark conditions before progressing to the decision support phase of planning.

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