Chapter 7: Conservation Planning Process

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

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INTRODUCTIONThe NRCS has provided conservation planning, design,and implementation assistance to farmers, ranchers,and communities for decades. Thousands ofconservation management practices have beeninstalled across the country. The habitat created bythese practices has been a significant factor inmaintaining wildlife populations and species diversityin agriculturally dominated landscapes. However,more can be done to benefit wildlife. This chapterillustrates ways to integrate the concepts andprinciples discussed in Chapter 5 into the conservationplanning process to provide more, higher qualityconnected habitat for wildlife.

PLANNING PROCESSThe phases and steps outlined in the NPPH forpreparing conservation plans are identical to thoseused in preparing a watershed plan (Figure 6-1). Theprincipal difference is more detailed site-specificinformation must be collected, analyzed, andsynthesized for a conservation plan.

GETTING STARTED

PREPLANNING: CONSERVATION PLAN

SCALE

The preconditions that initiate conservation planningon an individual farm, ranch or community open spaceare often the same as those that trigger area-wideplanning efforts: crisis, mandate, incentives, orleadership. Planning may be recommended by theconservationist or NRCS assistance sought by alandowner or community. Regardless of who initiatesthe project, it is important to obtain basic informationand assemble the necessary tools to start the planning

process. The NationalPlanning ProceduresHandbook (NPPH) providesa detailed outline of how toproceed with preplanningactivities. In addition to thepreplanning procedures,tools, and materials dis-cussed in the NPPH, theconservationist shouldalso have available:

· The area-wide plan - if available

· The �Corridors In Our Landscape� brochure

· This handbook - Conservation CorridorPlanning at the Landscape Level: Managingfor Wildlife Habitat

· USGS 7.5 minute quadrangle maps thatinclude the client�s property

· Copies of the NRCS 1:660 soil survey mapsthat include the client�s property andimmediately adjacent properties

· Any existing wildlife reports, researchstudies, EA or EIS reports or similar wildlifeinformation specific to the watershed withinwhich the client�s property resides

· Photo prints, plans, or reports of completedprojects within the District that havepreserved, created, enhanced, or restoredwildlife habitat; Consider putting together a�scrapbook� of these materials to take intothe field

Having these materials available for the first formalclient meeting will help the conservationist promotewildlife conservation as an integral part of theconservation plan. In addition, these materials willcomprise a reference resource available when neededto answer client�s questions.

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PHASE 1 COLLECTION ANDANALYSIS AT THECONSERVATION PLAN SCALEPhase 1 involves:

· Identification of problems and opportunities

· Determine objectives

· Inventory resources

· Analyze resources

In Phase 1, the client and conservationist work toreach agreement on the problems, opportunities, andobjectives for the conservation plan.

STEP 1 IDENTIFY PROBLEMS AND

OPPORTUNITIES

Planning Standard

The client�s resource problems, opportunities andconcerns are identified and documented.

DiscussionThe first on-site visit with the client may be the mostimportant step in the planning process at the farm,ranch, or community scale. Building trust begins withthe first meeting. The client trusts the conservationistto provide the best advice and technical assistancepossible in addressing his or her concerns. Theconservationist trusts the client to properly implementrecommended conservation practices and maintainthem into the future. Both parties are committingtime, money, and other resources necessary tosuccessfully complete a conservation plan. Bothparties understand that the conservation dividendsresulting from their investment will accrue some timein the future.

The first on-site meeting affords the conservationistan opportunity to listen to the client�s concerns andsee the problems and possibilities in the field. It alsoprovides an opportunity to involve the client in theplanning process; asking them questions about wildlifeand wildlife habitat on his/her property can produceimportant insights. Equally important, is theconservationist has the chance to discuss wildlifehabitat opportunities from an experienced perspectivegained working throughout the surrounding landscape.

The NPPH provides a detailed outline on how toproceed with Step 1 activities. In addition to theseprocedures, the conservationist should:

· Use the wildlife informational materials listedin the Preplanning section as aids whendiscussing wildlife concerns, problems, andopportunities with the client.

· Document wildlife and habitat relatedproblems and opportunities on the client�sproperty or on the soil survey aerial photomaps.

· Record these problems and opportunitieswith photographs.

· Emphasize opportunities to link habitats onthe client�s property with habitats on adjacentproperty. Document these opportunities onmaps and with photographs.

· Record on maps and with photographs largeareas (>80 acres) devoid of habitat anddiscuss with the client new possibilities toprovide wildlife habitat or enhance the habitatvalue of some other existing conservationmanagement practices.

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· Locate the client�s property within the area-wide plan and review the plan with the client.Emphasize wildlife habitat related elementsof the plan that could affect the client�sproperty and the immediate environs.

· Visit any locations on the client�s propertywhere habitat recommendations or otherfeatures have been delineated on the area-wide plan.

· Discuss with the client the value-addedbenefits of incorporating these area-widewildlife habitat plan recommendations ontheir property. This manual provides someexcellent examples to share with the client.

Additional problems and possibilities invariably emergelater in the planning process. The planning process�sinherent flexibility makes it possible to accommodatenew information, when it emerges. Once the clientand conservationist have completed the identificationof problems and opportunities, they will have producedthe products specified in the NPPH.

DocumentationProblems and opportunities are typically documentedin a short report. This information can be recorded inNotes and Resource Inventory, a GIS data base, orother agency tracking systems. The report shouldinclude field notes, photographs, and any sketch mapsthat were prepared.

Products

· Identification and documentation of wildlifeand wildlife habitat problems, opportunities,and concerns in the case file

· Communication with the client

STEP 2 DETERMINE OBJECTIVES

Planning Standard

The client�s objectives are clearly stated anddocumented.

DiscussionClients initiate conservation projects because theywish to change existing conditions to some desiredfuture condition. Often the project is intended toeliminate a particular problem, stabilize an erodingswale in a field for example or explore some alternativeresource use. It is important that the conservationistfully understand the client�s objectives and valuesrelated to resource management. The conservationistcan also assist the process of determining objectivesby offering advice and suggestions. It is often helpfulin clarifying objectives to go over field notes from thefirst on-site meeting with the client. By workingtogether, the client and conservationist can formalizemeaningful and realistic objectives for the wildliferesource as well as other resources.

Objectives should be stated so they describe what isdesired without prescribing a specific solution. Thisallows client and conservationist opportunities toexplore alternative plans in Step 4 of the process.

The NPPH includes an extensive list of items the clientand conservationist should discuss and agree uponas part of the objective setting process. To ensurewildlife are fully considered in this important step, theconservationist should:

· Explain to the client how their objectives mayaffect the site�s resources and ecology, andalert them to any specific impacts, positiveor negative that may affect wildlife.

· Notify the client of any federal, state, or locallaws related to wildlife or other resources thatcould affect the client�s objectives soplanning proceeds in a proactive way.

· Encourage the client to consider an overallobjective of preserving, enhancing andrestoring existing and potential (historical)habitats for diverse populations of desirablespecies.

· Encourage the client to establish, as anobjective, linking habitats on his/her propertywith those on adjacent properties whereapplicable.

If the client�s property is within the boundaries of anexisting area-wide plan, additional procedures include:

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· Encourage the client to consider as anobjective new conservation practices forwildlife in large areas (>80 acres) devoid ofhabitat.

· Use the checklist in this manual (AppendixB) as a tool for getting landowner input onspecific wildlife species important to them;providing habitat for the client�s preferredspecies can become an objective.

· If the client�s property is within an existingarea-wide plan, review the plan with the client.

· Encourage the client to incorporate into his/her conservation plan objective statementthose recommendations in the area-wideplan, which apply to the property.

When the client and the conservationist come to anagreement on conservation plan objectives, they willhave produced the products described in the NPPH.

DocumentationObjectives are typically documented in a short report.

Products

· A list of the client�s objectives includingspecific wildlife and wildlife habitatobjectives - as an objective note in thecase file.

STEP 3 INVENTORY

Planning Standard

Sufficient data and information are gathered toanalyze and understand the natural resource con-ditions in the planning area.

DiscussionThe basic intent of the conservation plan inventory isto describe existing (benchmark) condition on theclient�s property. The wildlife resource section of theinventory has both a wildlife species component anda habitat component. The specific intent of the wildliferesource inventory at the conservation plan scale isto:

· Identify wildlife species that do or couldinhabit the client�s property

· Map plant community types

· Map wildlife species occurrence asassociated with plant community types

· Map important corridors, habitat patches, andsite features

· Map potential habitats

· Map general land cover types

· Provide life history information for thosespecies of special interest to the client,threatened or endangered species or speciesof vulnerable populations

· Emphasize inventory of wildlife resourcesrelated specifically to objectives of theindividual landowner

The client�s involvement in the inventory process isessential; they are generally knowledgeable about theproperty�s history and its resources. However, theconservationist should also take advantage of everyopportunity to educate the client about wildlife andhabitat while they work together in the field. Aninformed landowner is more likely to make decisionsbenefiting the wildlife resource. Information generatedin the inventory is useful for further defining problemsand opportunities identified in Step 1; it may alsosuggest that some of the client�s original objectivesbe altered or eliminated or new objectives added.

The NPPH provides a general outline of basic inventoryinputs. Inventory tools and procedures are alsodetailed. Discipline handbooks are useful references,providing additional inventory procedures. The HabitatEvaluation Procedure (HEP) manual is therecommended reference for evaluating the food, cover,and shelter components of wildlife habitat. In addition,a set of corridor inventory forms is included in AppendixA.

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DocumentationAll inventory data should be mapped at a commonscale. This may require enlarging or reducing mappedinformation from different sources. For conservationplan scale projects, a scale of 1:660� or the scale ofNRCS aerial photo soil maps, is the most convenientfor planning purposes. The following maps, lists, andshort reports should be prepared. Use aerial photosas a base for mapping (Figures 7-1 and 7-2).

Wildlife Species Data Needs

· List of species observed or whose presence isinferred from indirect evidence on the site

· List of federal or state listed threatened orendangered species (if any)

· List of species breeding on the site

· List of potential species (species typicallyassociated with plant community types on thesite) but not observed or inferred

· List of nuisance species (if any)

· Estimate of species abundance

Wildlife Habitat Data Needs

Existing Vegetation Map

· Grass plant community type

· Grass shrub plant community type

· Riparian wooded plant community type

· Riparian shrub plant community type

· Riparian grass plant community type

· Upland wooded plant community type(natural)

· Upland wooded plant community type(introduced)

· Wetland type

Land Use or Cover Type

· Cropland

· Pastureland

· Rangeland

· Conservation Reserve (indicate type)

· Parks/Open Space

· Urban

· Wetland Reserve Program (WRP)

· Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP)

Habitat Features Map

Special patches

· Large remnant upland patches

· Large introduced patches

Special corridors

· Riparian corridors

· Migration corridors

· Dispersal corridors

Special areas

· Patches or corridors inhabited by threat-ened or endangered species or vulnerablepopulations

· Leks or other breeding sites

· Calving/birthing sites

· Winter range

· Winter cover

· Summer range

· Thermal cover

· Irreplaceable sources of food or water

· Other - (specify)

Special features

· Snags

· Dens

· Burrows

· Talus or rock piles

· Cliffs

· Caves and abandoned mines

· Other - (specify)

Potential Habitat Maps

· Steep slopes

· Poorly drained soils

· Damaged soils

· Disturbed sites (borrow pits, etc.)

· Easement corridors

· �Waste� areas

· Other - (specify)

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Figure 7-1

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Figure 7-2

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If the client�s property is within an existing area-wideplan boundary, many of these maps will have beencompleted but at the scale of a USGS quad sheet1:24000. The information relevant to the client�sproperty can be taken off the area-wide plan, rescaledto 1:660 and drawn on the appropriate inventory sheet.Ground-truthing will be required to verify the accuracyof conversion from one map scale to another; additionaldetail may be required.

Other wildlife related data needs will vary dependingon the client�s objectives and the project sitecharacteristics. Generally this information does notneed to be mapped; for example, life historyinformation for threatened or endangered species,vulnerable species, or species of special interest tothe client. When the inventory is completed, the clientand the conservationist will have produced the productsdescribed in the NPPH.

Products

· List of wildlife species on the client�s propertywith estimates of abundance and diversity

· A set of maps depicting the components ofwildlife habitat on the client�s property

· Short wildlife related reports wherenecessary to elaborate on the mappedinformation

STEP 4 ANALYZE RESOURCES

Planning StandardThe benchmark condition for the planning area isdocumented. Results are displayed in easilyunderstood formats depicting current naturalresource conditions, physical characteristics ofthe planning unit, and comparisons betweenexisting and potential conditions. The causes ofthe resource problems are identified.

DiscussionThe conservationist must now interpret the inventorydata. Discipline handbooks, manuals, and inventoryworksheets are critical references in the analysisprocess. In some cases, consulting with experts maybe required, for example when threatened orendangered species or locally vulnerable wildlifepopulations are issues.

· Depict current wildlife and wildlife habitatconditions

· Compare current conditions with potentialconditions

· Identify causes of wildlife and wildlife habitatproblems

The NPPH outlines the basic procedures for theanalysis. Results of the analysis may suggest thatsome previously defined objectives be eliminated ormodified, some new objectives may be added. At thecompletion of Step 4 and Phase 1, the conservationistand client should be in agreement on problems,opportunities, and objectives for the conservation plan.

The wildlife component of the analysis should focuson wildlife and wildlife habitat; specifically speciesdiversity, population dynamics, and habitat conditions,causes of conditions, and potential conditions in thepatches, corridors, and matrix on the client�s property.The analysis must draw cause and effect relationshipbetween what occurs in the matrix and the conditionof habitat in patches and corridors. It should alsodescribe what if any effects patches and corridorsexert on the matrix.

Analysis QuestionsIt is important to synthesize wildlife and wildlife habitatinventory information acquired in Step 3 into concise,accurate and easy to understand tables, graphs, andmaps. Maps, either hand drawn or computergenerated, are important in helping the client fullyappreciate the wildlife-related problems andopportunities inherent on his/her property (Figure 7-3). The analysis of wildlife and wildlife habitat shouldanswer the following questions:

Wildlife

· What wildlife populations are vulnerable tolocal extinction? (threatened and endangeredspecies are a special case)

· What are the principal causes of thepopulations� or species� vulnerable status?

· What is the potential condition of thesevulnerable populations?

· What factors are limiting non-game speciesdiversity or game species abundance?

· What factors enhance populations ofnuisance or pest species?

The reports and maps prepared in the analysis phaseshould:

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Threatened and endangered (T&E) species listedunder the Endangered Species Act are theresponsibility of the USFWS. States may also haveT&E species or species of concern lists. Any T&Especies habitat on the client�s property must bemanaged to comply with USFWS standards or statestandards. Vulnerable populations, although nottechnically threatened or endangered, couldexperience local extinction. These populations aretypically listed with the State Natural Heritage Programwhich can specify a general area where a vulnerablespecies may be present. If the client�s property fallswithin the general area, a survey should be conductedto determine the presence or absence of the species.If present, a biologist specializing in the species anda conservation biologist should be consulted todetermine the causes of vulnerability and the potentialof the population to persist.

Wildlife diversity is strongly influenced by plantcommunity diversity, patch size, amount of edge,connectivity and presence or absence of water. Theconservationist can compare the property�s habitatcharacteristics and wildlife species to similar sitelocations in the watershed. The comparison maysuggest general habitat characteristics limiting wildlifediversity on the client�s property. The conservationistmay request assistance and additional informationfrom field biologists.

Most states have detailed models of the habitatrequirements of game species. The USFWS alsohas Habitat Suitability Models for many game andnon-game species. The conservationist can comparethe habitat conditions described in the models withthose identified in the inventory for a general idea ofwhat factors may be limiting abundance or diversity.Unfortunately, information for many non-game speciesis limited. State or field biologists can provide moredetailed information concerning limiting factors.

Habitat

o Patches

o Corridors

o Potential Patches

o Special Areas

o Special Features

· What is the current condition ofhabitat in existing patches, corridors,potential patches, special areas, andspecial features?

· What causes these conditions?

· What is the habitat potential ofexisting patches, corridors, potentialpatches, special areas, and specialfeatures?

· What patches, corridors, potentialpatches, special areas, and specialfeatures are of greatest value orpotential value to wildlife?

Patch habitat condition evaluations should beconducted using procedures outlined in disciplinehandbooks. Corridor condition evaluations should becompleted using the corridor inventory forms inAppendix A. The inventory phase will have determinedspecies present on the client�s property. There areseveral ways to determine what species were or couldbe present. Many states have species distributionmaps showing what species would be expected onthe client�s site. The list of expected species can becompared with the inventory list prepared.Conservationists may also know about what speciescould exist on the property based on his/herexperiences elsewhere in the watershed. AnyEnvironmental Assessment or Environmental ImpactStatement done in the watershed will have a specieslist that can be used for comparative references.

Determination of the habitat value of patches,corridors, and special areas should be based onexisting wildlife species and habitat. Considerationshould be given to existing resources that have habitatpotential but are not presently being used by wildlife.The most valuable patches, corridors, special areasand features will vary with each property, watershed,and region. However, there are some general habitattypes and resources of high value in all watershedsand regions.

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· Relatively undisturbed patches of remnantvegetation (large patches are particularlyvaluable)

· Stream/riparian corridors

· Migration and dispersal corridors

· Wetlands

· Lakes, ponds, springs, seeps, and otherwater features

· Irreplaceable sources of food, water, cover,or sites for reproduction

The conservationist can expand on this list to includehabitats or resources considered most important inhis or her region. Documentation of these importantresources on the composite analysis map is criticalto the next step in the planning process.

At Risk Habitats

· What patches, corridors, special areas orspecial features are at risk?

· What are the causes of risk to these habitatresources?

· What is the potential for mitigating oreliminating threats to wildlife or wildlifehabitat?

A habitat component at risk is defined as a patch,corridor, special area or feature, or other wildliferesource whose continued ecological function isthreatened by some internal or external factor. Forexample, an unbuffered wetland receiving excessiveamounts of silt and agricultural chemicals would beclassified at risk. At some point the level of pollutantswill cause eutrophication and significantly degrade thewetlands functional capabilities including habitat forwildlife. NRCS biologists reported matrix managementpractices, increasing field size, water developmentprojects, and urbanization as primary factors increating at risk conditions in wildlife habitat. At riskhabitats should be delineated on the base map.

Matrix

· What current field management practices orother land use activities adversely impactwildlife or wildlife habitat?

· What specific attributes of managementpractices or land uses cause the adverseimpacts?

· What potential wildlife or wildlife habitatbenefits could be realized if field managementpractices or land uses were altered?

The condition and management of the matrix has asignificant impact on wildlife. The client andconservationist should evaluate both elements in thefield. NRCS biologists reported in a recent surveythat the timing of haying and mowing, fall plowing,spring ditch burning, spraying, and unmanaged grazingwere among the more common managementpractices that adversely impact wildlife. Indirectadverse impacts on wildlife include soil erosion,sedimentation, and chemical laden runoff. Matrixmanagement practices adversely impacting wildlifeshould be delineated on the base map.

DocumentationAll patches, corridors, and the matrix will have beenmapped in Step 3 inventory. Duplicate these mapsand note the existing condition, causes of thecondition, and potential condition. Relating thisinformation to real locations on the property is usefulfor preparing alternatives. It is also important to noteproblems on the client�s property, the causes of whichoriginate off-site. These off-site problems are frequentin riparian corridors due to downstream flow.

Most of the analysis information will be recorded inshort reports. However, it is also useful to develop acomposite resource analysis map at the same scaleas the inventory maps (1�=660�) (Figure 7-3). Thismap documents the general habitat condition on theclient�s property. The map would locate:

· Threatened or endangered species habitat

· Patches with vulnerable populations

· The condition of all patches, corridors,potential patches, special areas, and specialfeatures

General high value habitat resources include:

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Figure 7-3

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· High value patches and corridors, specialareas and features

· Gaps in corridor connectivity

· Potential corridor connections, both on-siteand off-site

· Patches, corridors, special areas and specialfeatures at risk

· Field management practices, both on-siteand off-site, detrimental to wildlife

· Potential habitats

The value of mapping the analysis results is it ties theconclusions to specific locations on the client�sproperty. The client can see direct links between theinventory, analysis, and resources. If other informationis needed, the conservationist and client can refer towritten reports documenting the analysis.

Products

· A clear statement of the benchmarkcondition in the planning unit and relatedareas.

PHASE 2 DECISION SUPPORTAT THE CONSERVATION PLANSCALEPhase 2 involves:

· Formulate alternatives

· Evaluate alternatives

· Make decisions

In Phase 2, the client and conservationist will developa range of plan alternatives that address the prob-lems, opportunities, and objectives identified in Phase1. At the completion of Phase 2, they will select aconservation plan that best meets the objectives ofboth the client and the natural resources.

STEP 5 FORMULATE ALTERNATIVES

Planning Standard

Alternative treatments are developed to meetquality criteria and the objectives of the client.

DiscussionTwo general conservation plan scales involveparticipation of the conservationist:

· Small scale conservation plans that addressone to several localized problems oropportunities; installing a grassed waterwayfor example

· Large scale comprehensive farm/ranch orcommunity conservation plans that couldinvolve the installation of numerousconservation practices or combinations ofpractices across the entire property

Small Scale Projects

Small-scale projects, one to several conservationpractices on a farm or ranch, have historicallycomprised the majority of requests for assistance.Fortunately, each conservation practice has inherentpotential to benefit wildlife in some way. The challengefor the conservationist is to enhance the habitatpotential of each conservation practice (regardless oflocation), to design practices that produce habitatfunctional values greater than the practice itself, andto educate the client about increased benefits fromplanning on a broader scale. Reference Chapter 5 -Conservation Plan/Practice section for ways toenhance habitat value for each conservation practice.Before the project can proceed, all options to enhancehabitat value must also meet the client�s objectivesfor initiating the project.

Large Scale Projects

A large-scale, comprehensive, conservation plan foran entire farm, ranch, or community open spacepresents a more difficult challenge, but the benefitsfor wildlife can be significant if the challenge is met.The planning task is more challenging because it mustaddress problems and opportunities on the entireproperty, not just a few specific locations. Theopportunities to benefit wildlife are greater becausethe planning area is large; it may include a diversity ofplant community types and ecosystems, and thenumber of opportunities to link patches and corridorswith adjacent properties generally increases. Theremay also be greater flexibility in the location ofconservation corridors and more opportunities todevelop integrated systems of conservation practicesboth on and off-site.

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Process

The wildlife component of the conservation plan isprepared in direct consultation with the client. Thebasic wildlife plan from which all alternatives are derivedis assembled as a series of map overlays or layers(Figure 7-4). The base layer is the composite analysismap, prepared in Step 4, which depicts existing habitatresources on the client�s property. Subsequent layersillustrating proposed solutions to specific problemsor opportunities are overlaid on the analysis compositebase maps.

Layers typically included are:

Existing Habitat Resources � This base is a copy ofthe composite analysis map prepared in Step 4 (Figure7-3).

Function � This layer delineates the location ofconservation practices or systems of practicesrequired to meet the client�s objectives and complywith NRCS standards. Note: Wildlife functions areconsidered specifically in the Potential Habitat andNew Plantings layer and the Synthesis layer.

Existing Habitat Resource Management � This layerdelineates recommendations for preservation,enhancement, or restoration of all existing habitatresources on the client�s property.

Potential Habitat and New Plantings � This layerdelineates sites on the client�s property that could bedeveloped into wildlife habitat.

Synthesis � This layer uses the concepts andprinciples discussed in Chapter 5 to integrate the threeprevious layers into an ecologically sound wildlife planthat responds to the unique resources of the client�sproperty and his or her program objectives.

First Layer � Existing Habitat ResourcesThe conservationist should make a copy of thecomposite analysis map that delineates the patternof existing habitat components including:

· Threatened or endangered species habitat

· Patches with vulnerable populations

· The condition of all patches, corridors,potential patches, special areas, and specialfeatures

· High value patches and corridors, specialareas and features

· Gaps in corridor connectivity

· Potential corridor connections, both on-siteand off-site

· Patches, corridors, special areas and specialfeatures at risk

· Field management practices, both on-siteand off-site, detrimental to wildlife

· Potential habitats

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Plan Alternatives

Other

Synthesis

Potential Habitat & Plantings

Habitat Resource Management

E.x. Habitat Resources

Function

Base Map

Figure 7-4: An example of map overlays or layers.

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Second Layer � FunctionMany conservation plan projects will involve thelocation and design of new conservation corridors tosolve functional problems. Clients have specificobjectives in mind, often addressing a specific soil orwater conservation problem. The location of theproblem in the field dictates the location of theconservation practices or systems of practice. Therecommended process for locating and designing newcorridor plantings to achieve functional objectivesshould proceed as follows:

· Review the client�s objectives related to fieldmanagement practices, wildlife habitat,erosion control, and air/water qualityprotection.

· Identify which ecological functions of corridorsor other conservation practices orcombinations of practices could be used tosolve the problem or capitalize on theopportunity.

· Consider possible solutions such as fencing,grading, bioengineering, modifiedmanagement systems, etc.

· Select corridor types or managementpractices or combination of practices thatprovide functions necessary to solve theproblem or realize the opportunity, and aremost beneficial to wildlife.

· Specify plant community structure and nativeplant species for the management practice,appropriate for wildlife species in the region(reference Chapter 5).

· Locate the corridor type, practice orcombinations of practices where they wouldbe installed in the field on the 1�=660� basemap.

· Repeat this procedure for each problem oropportunity.

When all conservation practices and systems ofpractices necessary to meet the client�s objectiveshave been located on the base map, a preliminaryfunctional plan will have been completed. Startingplan development by addressing functional issues firstdoes not mean wildlife issues are any less important,they are simply addressed later in the process. Thefinal plan must integrate all objectives including wildlifeobjectives into an operational and ecologically unifiedwhole (Figure 7-5).

Third Layer � Existing Habitat ResourceManagementThe condition of patches, corridors, potential patches,and special areas/features was documented in theanalysis Step 4. Causes of the conditions were alsoidentified. Both conditions and causes should beaddressed in the plan. The following procedure foraddressing existing habitat resource issues issuggested:

· Review the current condition of each patch,corridor, special area, or special feature asdescribed in the analysis

· Review the wildlife analysis report to identifyfactors degrading these habitats or limitingspecies diversity or abundance

· Recommend ways to alleviate the cause orcauses of habitat degradation or other factorslimiting species diversity or abundance

· Include recommendations for problems oropportunities unique to the client�s property

General recommendations to preserve, enhance, orrestore patches, corridors, or other habitat resourcesshould be noted on the base map and linked directlyto that resource (Figure 7-6). Specific managementtechniques for meeting these objectives should bekeyed to habitat resources on the map and discussedin detail in the implementation report (Step 8).

Fourth Layer � Potential Habitats andNew Wildlife PlantingsThe conservationist should review the areas of potentialhabitat delineated on the analysis map and assesspossibilities of enhancing or restoring these areas.Consider the function these areas could perform inaddition to habitat. For example, tiled wetlands arecommon in many regions of the country. During wetyears, crop production on these areas is marginal.Many farmers are voluntarily crushing drain tiles,restoring these wetlands. Not only have thesepractices restored habitat for wildlife, they have alsorestored other wetland functions helping mitigatedownstream flooding and reduce water pollution.

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Figure 7-5

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EXISTING HABITAT RESOURCE

MANAGEMENT MAP

Figure 7-6

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Easement corridors for powerlines, pipelines, and otherutilities provide real possibilities to link patches andother corridors across a site. If properly planted andmanaged, easements can provide excellent habitatfor many species. Similar habitat and linkagepotentially exist in steep slopes, damaged soils,�waste� areas, and disturbed sites. Locate potentialhabitats worthy of development on the base map.

New wildlife corridor plantings offer excitingopportunities (see the Hedgerow Farms case studyfor example - pp. 7-27). New wildlife corridor plantingsshould be located to provide other ecological functionsin addition to habitat thus maximizing their utility.When appropriate, the conservationist should proposecorridor locations that serve as major connectingstructures for wildlife on the farm, ranch, or community.In many respects, new plantings offer more designflexibility than any other plan activity. New plantingsmay include habitat patches as well as corridors. Lookfor opportunities to plant even small areas of newhabitat within those large areas (>80 acres) outlinedon the inventory map as being devoid of habitat.

It is important to make sure all proposed new plantingsdo not interfere with the client�s normal farming orranching operations. For example, an Iowa StateUniversity extension publication Stewards of OurStreams - Buffer Strip Design, Establishment andMaintenance recommends streamside/riparianplantings to �square up� fields converting the areaadjacent to stream meanders into habitat. If theserecommendations were implemented, they wouldprovide important riparian habitat and increase farmequipment operating efficiency (Figure 7-7). Locateall potential habitats proposed for enhancement orrestoration and all new proposed plantings on thislayer (Figure 7-8).

Figure 7-7: Before �squaring up� fields,habitat is limited to small isolated patches.

Fifth Layer - SynthesisSynthesis involves combining the mapped informationfrom all three previously developed layers. The patternthat emerges from overlaying all layers is oftendisconnected. It is a collection of conservationpractices and management recommendations, not yeta plan. The challenge for the conservationist and theclient is to convert this collection of practices andrecommendations into a plan. They need to identifypractical opportunities to connect patches, corridors,potential habitat patches, special areas, and specialfeatures into an integrated pattern. The intent is tooptimize the value-added benefits of connectivity.Reference the concepts and principles on page 7-19to help guide the plan development process.

Optimizing connectivity and modifying the other planelements in response to planning principles mayinvolve:

· Extending a corridor

· Changing corridor location, width, orconfiguration, where practical

· Adding corridors or patches

· Proposing additional structural, mechanical,or management practices

· Reintroducing natural mechanisms tomanage vegetation

In some instances, there will not be a practical wayto link patches or corridors; they will remain discon-nected from the overall structure of the conservationplan but are still valuable as habitat.

The wildlife component of theconservation plan that emergesfrom the synthesis processshould optimize habitat re-sources on the client�s property.The conservationist and clientshould take the preliminary syn-thesis plan into the field andevaluate each recommendationon location. Adjustments to theplan should be made as neces-sary in response to on-site con-ditions. The conservationist willprepare a final plan once all ad-justments have been made (Fig-ure 7-9).

After �squaring up� fields, habitat is increased5-fold and farming efficiency is enhanced.

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POTENTIAL HABITATS AND NEW PLANTINGS MAP

Figure 7-8

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Planning Habitat Concepts and Principles

The concepts and principles discussed in Chapter 5are guidelines the planning team can use tosynthesize the four previous layers into an integratedwildlife habitat plan. They suggest locations,configurations, and linkages for corridors and patchesproviding the greatest benefit for wildlife. Theseconcepts and principles are applicable regardless ofproject scale and have been rephrased as planningdirectives to use in this phase of the planning process.

Patches

· Preserve all large patches or introduce newones where practical

· Connect all patches, large or small,that were historically connected

· Do not subdivide existing patches

· Preserve clusters of small patches

· Preserve patches that are near each other

· Introduce new patches in areas devoid ofhabitat

Corridors

· Preserve continuous corridors; plant gapsin discontinuous corridors

· Preserve existing corridors connectingexisting patches; pay particular attentionto migration and dispersal corridors

· Introduce, where practical, corridorplantings to connect patches that werehistorically connected

· Preserve or introduce multiple corridor or�stepping stone� connections betweenpatches that were historically connected

· Design new corridors to be as wide aspractical; widen existing corridors wherepractical

Special Areas and Features

· Preserve all patches, corridors, special areasor special features inhabited by threatenedor endangered species or vulnerablepopulations

· Preserve other special areas and features

Potential Habitats

· Develop potential habitats where practical

· Consider artificial structures to provide habitatwhen natural habitat has been degraded ordestroyed

Other Principles

· Address key impacts that create at-riskconditions for habitat

· Recommend matrix management principlesthat benefit wildlife

· Recommend structural diversity in patch andcorridor plant communities

· Recommend native plant communities

The conservationist should adapt concepts andprinciples as necessary to meet project resourceconditions and the needs of specific wildlife species.

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SYNTHESIS MAP

Figure 7-9

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Develop AlternativesThe NPPH requires preparation of viable alternativeconservation plans. There are a number of ways todevelop alternatives to the base plan. Alternativescan focus on conservation function, wildlife (diversityor target species) or other corridor benefits. Someexamples are:

· Alternative plans using different managementpractices to address a particular soil or waterconservation problem

· A plan to optimize wildlife species diversity

· A plan to increase populations of a particularspecies, guild, or suite of species

· A plan to optimize recreation, economic, orother corridor benefits

· A plan of conservation practices withoutenhancement for wildlife

· A no-action alternative (required)

The conservationist and client must agree that eachalternative meets the client�s objectives and NRCSstandards. In addition, each alternative must complywith all relevant Federal, state, and local regulations.

Product

A description of wildlife habitat alternativesavailable to the client

STEP 6 EVALUATE ALTERNATIVES

Planning Standard

The effects of each alternative are evaluated andimpacts are described. Alternatives are com-pared to benchmark conditions to evaluate theirability to solve problems, meet quality criteria,and the client�s objectives.

DiscussionThe conservationist and client must evaluate theconservation plan alternatives developed in Step 5.The NPPH outlines the basic procedures for evaluatingalternatives. The intent of evaluating the wildlife habitatcomponent of the conservation plan is to:

· Compare the wildlife habitat component ofconservation plan alternatives against habitatbenchmark conditions as described in theanalysis

· Compare the wildlife habitat benefits of eachalternative

· Compare the effectiveness of each alternativein meeting the client�s objectives

· Verify compliance with federal, state, andlocal statutes regulating wildlife or wildlifehabitat

The Conservation Plan Alternative EvaluationWorksheet (pp. 7-22) provides a format for quantifiablecomparisons between alternatives. Most of the dataneeded to fill out the form can be scaled from eachplan alternative. However, estimated changes inspecies diversity will require input from a biologist.Because state wildlife agencies and the USFWSmanage wildlife populations, they should be invited toreview plan alternatives and make recommendations.

Computer simulations constructed on oblique aerialphotographs are effective in depicting what differentalternatives would look like if implemented on theclient�s property. This valuable tool can help the clientand conservationist visualize each alternative (pp. 7-26).

Products

· A set of practical conservation managementsystem (CMS) alternatives compatible withclient and NRCS objectives.

· A conservation effects for decision-making(CED) worksheet, for each alternative,displaying effects and impacts for the clientto consider and use as a basis for makingconservation decisions.

· Technical assistance notes reflectingdiscussions between the planner and theclient.

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NRCS

Natural Resources Conservation Service - Conservation Corridor

Conservation Plan Alternative Evaluation Worksheet

Completing this form will provide a general evaluation of the impact of each alternative on wildlife habitat and wildlife populations.

LOCATION ADDRESSCounty: Landowner: mailingTownship:Range: rural post Section: or fire code numberSubsection: Phone # Day: Evening:

ALTERNATIVE NAME:EVALUATION

Criteria Inc

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Total area of corridorLinkage to adjacent patches or corridorsTotal length of corridorLength of existing corridor

PreservedEnhanced Restored

Total area of patches by plant communityGrassGrass shrubRiparian woodedRiparian shrubRiparian grassUpland wooded (natural)Upland wooded (introduced)Wetland

Acres of farm or ranch land managed in ways thatbenefit wildlifeAcres of farm or ranch land taken out of productionSpecial areas preservedSpecial features preservedOther conservation measures (Specify)Estimated effects on species diversityEstimated effects on species abundance(Specify species)

INSTRUCTIONS: Enter the alternative name or number in the space provided. Using a scale, measure the length or calculate the area for each criterion and record them in the matrix. Where requested, check whether these figures have increased, remained the same, or decreased relative to the existing condition (benchmark). The last 2 criteria require the planning team to estimate the alternative’s impact on wildlife. Each state is encouraged to develop criteria for making these estimates.

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PHASE 3 APPLICATION AT THECONSERVATION PLAN SCALE

Phase 3 involves:

· Implement plan

· Evaluate plan

In Phase 3, the client and the conservationistcooperate in implementing the conservation plan.Installed management practices are evaluated andadaptive management is applied where necessary.

STEP 8 IMPLEMENT PLAN

Planning Standard

The client has adequate information andunderstanding to implement, operate and maintainthe planned conservation systems. Practicesimplemented with NRCS technical assistance willbe installed according to agency standards andspecifications.

DiscussionImplementing a conservation plan is the process ofinstalling practices that make up the plannedconservation management system. The plan may beimplemented by the client with or without NRCStechnical assistance. Implementation also includesoperation and maintenance after installation to insureproper future functioning. It is only after habitatenhancing conservation corridors and practices areinstalled that wildlife benefit. Wildlife will continue tobenefit as long as the corridors are maintained withtheir needs in mind.

The NPPH provides detailed instructions on how toproceed with the implementation process. One areathat requires additional discussion for wildlife focusedplans is permitting. A number of wildlife, wildlife habitat,and water quality related resources are regulated byfederal, state, or local law. Conservationists shouldbe familiar with the types of required permits andpermitting agencies. All necessary permits must beacquired before the plan can be implemented.

STEP 7MAKE

DECISIONS

A conservation management system is selectedbased on the client�s clear understanding of theimpacts of each alternative. The selected alter-native is recorded in the client�s plan.

DiscussionThe conservationist assists the client to understandhis or her options in selecting an alternative. TheNPPH provides general guidelines for helping the clientconsider plan alternatives. It is important to reviewobjectives established in Step 2 at this point in thedecision making process. They should be basic criteriaupon which the final decision is made. Also reviewthe 1� =660� drawings of each alternative using thePlan Alternative Evaluation Worksheets to comparehabitat advantages and disadvantages of eachalternative. A rigorous evaluation of each planalternative will help the client understand theadvantages and disadvantages for the wildlife resourceand make an informed decision.

The conservationist prepares the final plan documentonce the client has selected an alternative. Generalguidance for preparing plan documents is provided inthe NPPH.

Once the conservation plan is completed it is deliveredto the client and a date is set for follow up or applicationassistance to coordinate funding and activities withstate agencies, conservation groups, or others involvedin plan implementation.

Products

· The plan document with the selectedalternative, including potential program orimplementation opportunities, and operationand maintenance

· Schedule of conservation system andpractice implementation

· NEPA documentation (if required)

· Revised CED worksheet for a conservationplan

Planning Standard

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One of the most critical aspects of implementation isfunding, particularly where wildlife habitat is concerned.Clients, for good reason, pursue the most cost-effective solution to a particular soil or waterconservation problem. For example, in the upperMidwest, smooth brome (Bromus inermis) is the mostcommon species planted in grass waterways.Farmers and ranchers prefer smooth brome becauseit is easy to establish and provides good inexpensiveerosion control. However, pure stands of smoothbrome have limited value as habitat for wildlife.Alternative grass/forb seed mixes that produce highquality habitat are more expensive and difficult toestablish. Fortunately, numerous private conservationorganizations in the upper Midwest and other regionsare seeking partnership opportunities with landownersto enhance the habitat value of grassed waterwaysand other conservation practices. They have programsthat contribute funds, native seed mixes, trees, shrubs,seeding and planting equipment, and labor. Supportof this kind makes it possible for landowners to installappropriate conservation practices beneficial to wildlifeat no additional cost. The reduced long-term costs ofmanaging native plant communities are an additionalbenefit for the landowner.

Partnerships of this type result in enhanced wildlifehabitat and a strengthened social structure in ruralcommunities. Partnering with federal and stateagencies and county and local governmentaldepartments can produce similar results. Chapter 8is devoted to the topic of implementation.

Products

· Conservation practices applied

· Conservation management systems applied

· Communication with the clients

· Updated plan document

· Conservation plan revision notes

· Technical assistance notes

· Conservation contract where applicable

STEP 9 EVALUATE PLAN

Planning Standard

The planner maintains contact with the client todetermine whether the implementation results aremeeting ecological, economic, and socialobjectives and solving conservation problems in amanner satisfactory to the client and beneficial tothe resources. Resource impacts different fromthose predicted are fed back into the planningprocess and adaptive management strategiesemployed.

DiscussionThe purposes for evaluating wildlife and wildlife habitatcomponents of the conservation plan as implementedinclude:

· To ensure wildlife habitat is functioning asintended

· To estimate wildlife response to conservationpractices

· To initiate adaptive management wherewildlife responses are different than thosepredicted

Evaluation of the implemented plan effects on wildlifeis an on-site activity. The client, conservationist, andNRCS biologist should work together to observe,measure, discuss, and record the wildlife and wildlifehabitat data. The conservationist should use the planevaluation step as an opportunity to discuss the resultswith the client. Habitat benefits of the conservationpractices implemented and the importance ofvegetation management in the perpetuation of thosebenefits should be emphasized. The NPPH outlinesthe general procedures necessary to complete a planevaluation.

Evaluating (estimating) the effects of the conservationplan on wildlife can be a difficult task. The very natureand behavior of some species afford little opportunityfor assessment. In addition, the effects of conservationpractices will not be immediate. Plants take time togrow; the results of fencing may require several yearsto be reflected in rejuvenated plant communities. Thewildlife that inhabits these changing plant communitieswill also change over time in response to changingplant structure. Further, local and regional populationsof wildlife are affected annually by weather and othernatural factors. Consequently, changes in species

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In addition, numerous species specific inventory andmonitoring techniques can be used as needed. It isbeyond the scope of this manual to detail eachtechnique. The Research and ManagementTechniques for Wildlife and Habitat (The WildlifeSociety 1994) is a useful reference. If threatened orendangered species or a vulnerable population is anissue, it may be necessary to enlist the help of otherwildlife and conservation biologists in conducting anevaluation.

Adaptive ManagementThe accumulation of several years of evaluation datamay suggest that a particular wildlife species orpopulation may be responding in ways different thanpredicted to the implemented conservation practices.The plan should be reviewed by the conservationistand a biologist to determine the nature of the problem.Conservation practices should be modified asnecessary to rectify the problem. In some cases,additional practices may need to be installed orspecies populations management employed.

Products· O & M reports

· Outline of maintenance needs or otherchanges

· A decision to update or revise the plan, ifneeded

· Technical assistance notes indicating theeffectiveness of the plan

· Case studies, if appropriate, following theguidance provided in the FOTG, Sec. V.

· Recommendations for changes in practicedesigns or specifications

· Recommendations for changes in FOTGmaterials

· A decision to revise or expandimplementation strategies

· Updated conservation plan effects

abundance from year to year may not be responsesto implemented management practices but ratherresponses to other external factors.

Nevertheless, conducting a wildlife inventory over aperiod of years is worthwhile because it does illustratetrends. Inventories should be coordinated with statewildlife agencies and the USFWS. The types ofinformation generated from a wildlife inventory thatreflect the effects of the implemented conservationpractice include:

· A list of species observed on the site

· A list of species that breed on the site

· Species abundance - estimated number ofindividuals present on the site

· Diversity - estimated number of speciespresent on the site

Annual wildlife inventory information collected afterimplementation can be compared with data collectedin the inventory Step 3. The data can be recorded ona simple bar graph to illustrate trends.

There are a number of well-established inventory andmonitoring techniques in the wildlife biology literature.NRCS biologists and state wildlife agencies are wellversed in these techniques, which include:

· Trapping

· Fecal pellet counts

· Call counts

· Harvest data (game species)

· Flush counts

· Roadside counts

· Number of artifacts (nests, burrows, tracks,etc.)

· Aerial counts

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Visual Simulations

A. This photo-graph depicts ex-isting conditionson the farm. Notethe engineeredstream channeland dark gray wetsoils adjacent tothe stream.

B. This simulationshows the installa-tion of a shelterbeltaround the farmbuildings, a grassedwaterway, riparianbuffer along thestream and a woodedpatch on the wetsoils.

C. In this simula-tion, grassed ter-races have been in-stalled and the ripar-ian buffer widened inseveral locations.Terraces are con-nected to riparianbuffers and grassedwaterways.

D. The stream hasbeen allowed to me-ander naturally withinthe floodplain andmany floodplain func-tions are restored inthis simulation. Thisfully integrated set ofconservation prac-tices maximizeswildlife habitat ben-efits.

E. This photograph depicts existing conditions. Note thelack of connectivity between the wetland and wooded patchand the larger landscape.

F. Shelterbelts installed in this simulation link wetlands,riparian woodlands, and wooded patches, providing wildlifecorridors and habitat across a large area.

Computer simulations constructed on oblique aerial photographs are effective in depicting what different conservation alternativeswould look like if implemented on the client�s property. Simulations were prepared by Gary Wells, U.S. Forest Service, AgroforestryCenter, Lincoln, NE. and were reproduced with permission.

A B

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MANAGE THE MATRIX WITH

WILDLIFE IN MIND.

NATIVE SPECIES ARE BETTER THAN

INTRODUCED SPECIES.

Case Study:

HEDGEROW FARMS

TWO OR MORE CORRIDOR

CONNECTIONS BETWEEN PATCHES

ARE BETTER THAN ONE.

STRUCTURALLY DIVERSE PATCHES

AND CORRIDORS ARE BETTER

THAN SIMPLE STRUCTURE.Vertical Structure

Corridor Planning Principles discussed in Chapter 5 that are exhibited by this casestudy include:

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Case Study: Hedgerow Farms

This case study illustrates how a privatelandowner partnering with federal, state and localagencies and groups can develop an effectiveconservation plan at the farm or ranch scale.Conservation corridors form the essence of theplan and function both as habitat and conduitfor the 110 species that have been recorded onthe property. Hedgerow Farms is also a teachingand research facility for farmers and ranchers inthe region.

Hedgerow Farms, owned and operated by JohnAnderson and family, is a 600 acre row crop andgrass seed production facility located 20 milesnorthwest of Davis, CA in the southernSacramento Valley. Nestled in a 200,000-acrewatershed at the base of the Vaca Hills, the farmis surrounded by other row crop farms and orchards.For the past 18 years, Hedgerow Farms has beenpioneering methods for restoring and revegetatingfield borders, canal edges and berms, drainageditches and riparian corridors with native Californiavegetation.

Intensive farming practices in the SacramentoValley have essentially eliminated wildlife habitatand ecosystem functions on the majority offarmland. Most farmers routinely keep nonfarmedareas devoid of vegetation through a costly andlabor-intensive combination of tillage and herbicides.Most of the major drainages that served historicallyas riparian corridors for wildlife have beenchannelized and stripped of vegetation.

In addition to eliminating wildlife habitat andbiodiversity, this so-called �clean farming� hasexacerbated soil erosion, sediment deposition, andflooding. It also locks farmers into a never-endingcycle of seasonal weed abatement. Left alone foreven a short period, traditionally clean-farmed areasbecome a complex of non-native invasive weedsunacceptable to farmers that can choke waterdelivery systems.

The owners of Hedgerow Farms have developed anddemonstrated the use of on-farm vegetationpractices that completely reverse the concept of�clean farming.� Rather than eliminating vegetation,they have restored and cultivated native Californiavegetation on roadsides, irrigation canals, drainageditches, field borders, and along a natural ripariancorridor. Every non-farmed area is a complex ofnative plants (including perennial grasses, sedges,rushes, forbs, shrubs, vines and trees)competitively suppressing invasive weeds whileproviding a biologically diverse community of plantsand animals.

Today, Hedgerow Farms supports multiple,interconnected corridors that have eliminatederosion, reduced the need for tillage and herbicides,and may even be assimilating agricultural nutrientrun-off. The benefits to wildlife are tremendous. Over110 species of birds have been recorded on theproperty. Game species are now regularly harvestedand include dove, pheasant, quail, turkey, woodducks, and mallards. Reptile and amphibianpopulations have made dramatic recoveries. Amyriad beneficial insects and spiders inhabit the

Figure 1: Aerial view of Hedgerow Farms.

Figure 2: A well designed windbreak with dense understoryvegetation provides habitat for many species.

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Winters, California

The success and innovation ofHedgerow Farms has heightenedlocal awareness and interest in con-servation practices on farmland.The farm hosts an average of twotours each month attended by otherfarmers, agency representatives,and conservationists eager to learnmore about farmland ecosystemmanagement. The Yolo CountyResource Conservation District to-gether with NRCS works withHedgerow Farms to provide educa-tion and outreach to expand theseand similar programs throughout thewatershed.

For additional information, contact:

John H. AndersonHedgerow Farms21740 Co. Rd. 88Winters, CA 95616

This case study was written by John Anderson and JeannieWirka and is printed in this document with their permission.

diverse vegetation complexes. The federally listedendangered Valley elderberry longhorn beetle hasrecently taken up residence in elderberry shrubsplanted in 1986. This boon to wildlife has notcompromised farm productivity: adjacent fields ofcorn, wheat, sunflowers, safflower, alfalfa, andtomatoes have not been negatively impacted andmay even benefit from the beneficial insects andabundant predators associated with the restoredhabitat.

The owners of Hedgerow Farms have found thatcooperation and partnerships with local agencieshave been both essential and rewarding. Installingroadside habitat required the support andparticipation of the Yolo County public worksagency. Restoring riparian habitat andrevegetating canal banks depended on a closeworking relationship with the Yolo County FloodControl and Water Conservation District. Theowners also relied upon multiple cost shareprograms to fund the projects, including USDAACP funds, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service�s�Partners for Wildlife� program, and EPA 319funds through the Yolo County ResourceConservation District. Finally, on-goingmonitoring and research involves the StateWater Resources Control Board, the Universityof California at Davis, and the University ofCalifornia Cooperative Extension.

Figure 3: The grassed banks of this irrigation canal reducesbank erosion and provides habitat.

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