ax03228i.aw

File Code:

1350-2/6540

Date:

February 12, 2003
   
   

Dear Southwest Idaho RAC Member:

Enclosed is the agenda for the February meeting of the RAC. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 19, starting at 10:30 a.m. at the Idaho Counties Risk Management Program (ICRMP) Building at 3100 South Vista, in Boise. A working lunch is planned, with lunch and soft drinks provided to RAC members. You can bring a brown bag lunch if you prefer.

You can be reimbursed for travel expenses associated with the meeting, including mileage. In order to be reimbursed you will need to provide the following documentation (this can be turned in at the meeting):

  • Start/end times of travel,
  • Mileage to/from the meeting, and
  • Lodging receipt

If you have any questions, please contact me at (435) 865-3701, or via e-mail at "rswick@fs.fed.us". Thanks again for your participation on the RAC.

Sincerely,

 

/s/ Randy Swick

    

RANDALL G. SWICK

Designated Federal Officer

Southwest Idaho Resource Advisory Committee

enclosures

Cc:

Dick Smith, Boise NF

Suzanne Rainville, Boise NF

Mark Madrid, Payette NF

Andy Brunelle, Boise NF

Dave Olson, Boise NF

Linda Steinhaus, Boise NF

Boyd Hartwig, Payette NF

Leadership Team, Boise NF

Leadership Team, Payette NF

 

 

 

Idaho Congressional Delegations

County Commissioners and Clerks

Maggie Mahoney, IAC

Southwest Idaho Resource Advisory Committee Meeting

AGENDA

February 19, 2003

Meeting location: Idaho Counties Risk Management Program Building

3100 South Vista Avenue

Boise, Idaho

 

10:30 AM Welcome, Meeting Objectives, and Agenda Review

(Phil Davis, RAC Chairperson)

1. 2003 NFCSC Conference/RAC Conference Update – Andy Brunelle

10:45 AM Review and Approval of 1-15-03 Meeting Minutes (D), Review of

Committee Mission Statement, Purpose, and Operating Guidelines,

Review, Approval of RAC Expenses (D), and Project Log Update.

(Randy Swick, DFO)

11:00 AM Update on Development of RAC Web site

(Charlla Adams, Boise State University)

11:15 AM Feedback on RAC Projects Implemented in 2002

(Phil Davis, RAC Chairperson)
    1. Silver Creek Research Weir Removal (#02009) – Andy Brunelle
    2. Indian Mountain Allotment Riparian Fencing (#02025) and Council Mountain Ripariam Fencing (#02026) – Dave Hogen and Maura Laverty, Council Ranger District

11:45 AM Review of Project Proposals – Proposal Form Part 2 (D)

(Phil Davis, RAC Chairperson; Randy Swick, DFO)
    1. East Fork Ditch Company Fish Screen (#02035) – Russ Manwaring, West Central Highlands RC&D

12:15 PM Working Lunch (Lunch will be provided for RAC members)

12:30 PM Lunch Program – Restoration of America’s Historic Forests presented by

Dr. Tom Bonnicksen, Texas A&M (a CD power point presentation)

(Phil Davis, RAC Chairperson)

1:15 PM Review of Project Proposals – Proposal Form Part 2 (D)

(Phil Davis, RAC Chairperson; Randy Swick, DFO)
    1. Fall Creek Warming Hut (#03003) – Larry Tripp, Mountain Home Ranger District

 

 

1:45 PM Review of Project Proposals – Proposal Form Part 1 (D)

(Phil Davis, RAC Chairperson; Randy Swick, DFO)
    1. Friends of the Weiser River Trail Noxious Weed Control (#03007) – Richard Pugh
    2. Third Fork Resurfacing (#03008) – Austin Brown, Emmett Ranger District
    3. Washington County, Lower Weiser River, Lower Payette CWMA’s Noxious Weed Treatment (#03009) – Harry Soulen

3:15 PM Decisions to Recommend Projects (DR)

(Phil Davis, RAC Chairperson)

3:45 PM Public Forum

- Comments and questions from the public to the committee

4:00 PM Future Meeting Dates and Location

(Randy Swick, DFO)

4:15 PM Meeting Adjourned

 

 

 

 

(D) = Decision item requiring quorum and simple majority for approval.

(DR) = Project recommendation decision item requiring quorum and majority of each Sub Group for approval.

     
     
     

 

Proposed Project Synopsis January 15, 2003 SW Idaho RAC Meeting

Fall Creek Warming Hut (#03003) – Larry Tripp, Mountain Home Ranger District

Total Project Cost: $84,000

Title II Request: $40,000

10. Statement of Project Purpose and Expected Outcomes [Sec. 203(b)(1), and (b)(5)]:

To construct a snowmobile shelter and sanitation facility to encourage greater use of snowmobile trails on the west side of Trinity Mountain, redistribute use away from trails on the east side of Trinity Mountain, and provide a base area for search and rescue. The Idaho Snowriders Snowmobile Club (an activity group within Elmore County with a membership of over 200) requested that a warming hut be developed on the west side of Trinity Mountain. The improvements will enhance the recreation experience, reduce sanitation concerns, and provide a high elevation point for search and rescue operation.

11. Project Description:

The west side of Trinity Mountain currently has no high elevation shelter opportunities for snowriders. New snowmobile trails in the Prairie area funnel into the west side trails. The existing shelter on the eastside of Trinity Mountain, which is currently exceeding capacity on most weekends. Over the past decade registration at the existing shelter went from 700 to over 2000. The east side of Trinity Mountain is on a trend toward heavy us, while trails on the west side are used at lower levels.

The proposed site area is adjacent to the Upper Lava Mountain Trailhead, site 68 on the Boise National Forest Visitor/Travel map. This trailhead is used during the summer months May-November. The trail system accommodates stock, hiking, and 2-wheeled motorized use.

The proposed action is to construct a single story wooden snowmobile shelter, approximately 53 ft. X 25 ft., with a concrete slab floor. Install a sanitation facility centrally located to facilitate both seasons of use. Perform deferred maintenance on approximately 1/10 mile of road within the site.

Joint Weed Control Facility (#03004) – Mike Bottoms, Boise County Weed Control Superintendent

Total Project Cost: $183,900

Title II Request: $121,500

10. Statement of Project Purpose and Expected Outcomes [Sec. 203(b)(1), and (b)(5)]:

Construct a joint facility for the storage of herbicides, used for noxious weed control, along with a mixing, wash down, off-season storage and office area. The proposed facility will improve the safety and provide a facility where equipment can be properly rinsed and the herbicide contaminated water stored and reused. Covered storage is included for equipment in the off- season (winter) protecting a significant investment of the county and federal agencies. The facility would provide a location for county and USFS cooperators to work from jointly on projects addressing the noxious weed problems, forest health and safety issues associated with weed control.

11. Project Description:

Design and build a joint weed control facility benefiting the weed control efforts on the Emmett, Idaho City and Lowman Ranger districts and both the Upper Payette and Boise Basin Cooperative Weed Management Areas (CWMA). Combine, this area covers over 2.5 million acres of which the US Forest Service manages 70%. 1.2 million acres of this combine area makeup Boise County. The County Weed Control program performs a significant amount work in both the CWMA’s through cooperative agreements and contracts with federal and state land managers and landowners. In 2002 the revenue from public land managers accounted for 76% of the county’s weed control budget (not including ISDA cost share money for the CWMA’s). Over three quarters of the work performed by Boise County Weed Control personnel directly benefits the health and noxious weed control on public land.

The building would allow sufficient area to accommodate chemical storage by each ranger district and Boise County and an area where spray equipment could be rinsed and the rinseate stored and reused.

The proposed design is 60 ft x 60 ft building which includes 900 sqft mixing and wash down area, 450 sqft chemical storage area, 350 sqft office and restroom and 1800 sqft covered outdoor storage. The proposed construction is a pole style building with metal siding and roof with an approximate cost of $30 per square foot or $108,000. The proposed site has water, electrical power and telephone available and is owned by Boise County. A separate septic system would be provided.

The mixing and wash down area will be equipped with a trench drain and sump to catch any water that may be spilled during filling, mixing or maintenance. The sump would also be capable of receiving water / herbicide mixtures in the event of an equipment failure. The facility would also be capable of receiving rinse water from spray equipment and allow that water to be reused in future herbicide applications. An eyewash station is also included for worker safety.

A large storage area is provided to allow secure, segregated storage for each of the USFS Ranger Districts and Boise County. The area will be designed with a curb around the room providing a self-contained catch basin in the event of a leak or spill allowing for easy clean up and preventing uncontrolled release of stored herbicides.

Five bays will be provided as outside storage giving protection from the elements during the off-season. Vehicles and spray equipment represent a significant investment for both county and federal taxpayers and proper storage is important to ensure long life and dependability of the equipment.

Office and Restroom facilities would allow weed control workers a convenient place to complete required application and administration records and to clean up.

Valley County Integrated Noxious Weed Control (#03005) – Ronn Julian, Cascade Ranger District, et al

Total Project Cost: $252,543

Title II Request: $40,750

 

10. Statement of Project Purpose and Expected Outcomes [Sec. 203(b)(1), and (b)(5)]:

Noxious weeds pose a serious threat to the diversity, integrity, and health of plant communities in Valley County and the Boise National Forest. It has been shown that they have negative impacts on recreational experiences, timberlands, wildlife/fisheries habitat, and watershed stability. This project is intended to directly reduce the number, size and densities of noxious weed infestations on federal, state, and private lands. It is also intended to indirectly reduce noxious weed spread within Valley County. Roads and their associated vehicle traffic is the largest contributor to noxious weed expansion on the Boise N.F. Currently there are an estimated 6,356 miles of forest, county, state and federal roads and highways on the Boise National Forest. Of this amount, 1,062 miles are on the Emmett Ranger District and 1,067 miles are on the Cascade Ranger District. Seventy seven percent of the inventoried infestations are along or have originated from roadsides. Most of the project’s treatment focus will be on infestations in close proximity to roads (within ¼ mile. Some landscapes are more susceptible to invasion than others, due to productivity of sites and the similarity of environmental conditions from where the weed originated. This susceptibility can affect rate of spread, density, and the extent or size of infestations. ). Approximately 58% of the roads on the forest are located in areas highly favorable or susceptible for noxious weed invasion.

In order to achieve effective control on infested sites, the timing of treatments; the completion of follow-up treatments to previously treated sites; the utilization of proper chemical calibration; and the mixing of various herbicide combinations are becoming more essential considerations. More infested sites are being inventoried and scheduled for treatment within Valley County and the Upper Payette Cooperative Weed Management Area (CWMA). This increased need for additional treatment has moved beyond Valley County’s and the Forest’s existing capabilities of manpower and equipment. For example, Valley County will have a significant partnership in 2003 with the Boise N.F. to treat noxious weeds on two ranger districts. The treatment workload associated with these districts will increase, due to: additional sites being identified; the need for additional follow-up treatments on sites during the growing season; and being able to treat infested sites at the appropriate timing. This latter circumstance has been an issue in recent years due to treatment timing conflicts caused by the need to continue treating other private and public locations obligated by the county. The County also has a significant obligation as a contributing partner in the Upper Payette River CWMA. Last year, the county treatment crews and equipment participated in 12 joint treatment projects for a total of 15 days. This year (2003) the county is planning on participating in 13 joint CWMA projects.

Therefore, the co-sponsors are proposing that treatment equipment acquisition described in section 11 be included is part of the project. The life expectancy of the equipment is 5-10 years. Personnel used to man the equipment will be determined as a part of the annual plan of operation that is included within the Participation Agreement between Valley County and the Boise National Forest, dated July 8th, 2002. The County tentatively plans to contract the labor portion of this project to private enterprise.

11. Project Description: The project would include purchasing the following equipment (See attached Figure 1):

  1. 2003, ¾ ton rated, Ford F-250 or other facsimile, 4X4 pick-up truck, 4-speed automatic, 5.4 liter EFI V-8 engine, trailer towing package. Cost $26,850
  2. Pick-up spray unit- 200 to 300 gallon low profile elliptical tank, 5.5 hp engine with a centrifugal pump, chemical tanks with a electric mixing system, two extensions- one for hose reel and one for boom system, boom system, electrical hose reel with 600 psi ½" hose and hand gun, separate transfer pump with 25’ suction hose and strainer. Cost $4,000
  3. 2003 Off-Road Utility Vehicle, Polaris Ranger or facsimile, 6X6, on-demand 6 wheel drive, tires 25 x 10 – 12/25 x 11-12, foot activated 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, automatic transmission, Dual-range forward and reverse, 30 horsepower, lockable rear differential, seating capacity of 2, 1000 lb. cargo capacity and a 1500 lb payload capacity. Cost $8,000
  4. Off-road vehicle spray unit- 60 gallon low profile tank, electric motor with a centrifugal pump, two extensions- one for hose reel and one for boom system, boom system, electrical hose reel with 600 psi ½" hose and hand gun. Cost $500
  5. Trailer capable of hauling 6 x 6 off-road utility vehicle. Dual axle, w/back drop ramp. Cost $1, 400

Total cost of equipment - $40,750

 

South Fork Salmon River Salmon Fishing Event (#03006) – Ronn Julian, Cascade Ranger District, et al

Total Project Cost: $252,529

Title II Request: $83,486

10. Statement of Project Purpose and Expected Outcomes [Sec. 203(b)(1), and (b)(5)]:

The South Fork of the Salmon River is one of several rivers in the state of Idaho that provides a salmon sport fishery season. The season is fast becoming a popular event that will likely continue annually. Angler visitation to the South Fork has increased every year since 2000. Approximately 15-40 feet of river/ are occupied by one fisherman/day during the event (See Figure 1 on fact sheet). Approximately 26,000 vehicle trips are generated on the South Fork road during a 4-week season. This results in significant vehicle congestion in the event area (Figure 2). As result, the Idaho Fish and Game Department, Valley County Sheriff’s Department and the Cascade Ranger District, Boise N.F. have formed a partnership to manage the impacts from the Salmon Fishing Season event. See the attached fact sheet for additional information on the event. This project is intended to provide for public safety, reliable public & emergency vehicle access, reductions in direct sediment delivery, reduced impacts to stream banks, improved dispersed camping, and protect the beneficial sediment reducing design of the existing paved road.

 

11. Project Description: The project would include the following:

Administrative Actions (Agency Financed)

  1. A joint Fish & Game and Forest Service check station set up at south end of the area, on FDR #474, near Knox Ranch. This will be manned daily during the entire fishing season.
  2. Disseminate information/map regarding permissible areas for camping, parking, river access, rules for use, etc.
  3. Enhance enforcement of forest and state regulations prohibiting certain acts by establishing an enforcement team consisting of Valley County Sheriff, Idaho Fish & Game, Shoshone-Bannock Tribal police and U.S. Forest Service to provide information, education, and enforcement for the full duration of the fishing season, similar to any other large group event held on NFS lands. Forest Service will address resource protection violations (i.e. camping, fire restrictions, access, etc.) while the County, F&G, and Tribal law enforcement will handle more serious violation situations (i.e. theft, battery, accidents, etc.).
  4. Camping will be allowed to the south of the north end of the Six Bit bench designated areas on the bench outside the closure area. No camping or overnight parking will be allowed along the South Fork road and within 200 feet of the east side riverbank from the north end of the Six Bit bench to Goat Creek.
  5. Parking in designated areas only. Designate "No Parking." Areas along the South Fork road (FDR #474) to protect road drainage and maintain traffic flow.
  6. Enforce existing off road restrictions during the fishing season. ATV/motorcycle use within the fishing area is allowed only if licensed and the operator has valid drivers license and insurance. Unlicensed ATVs/motorcycles will remain on trucks or trailers within event area. Operators of ATV/motorcycles gaining access from other routes will receive the appropriate level of enforcement by Valley County Sheriffs Department.
  7. F&G and Forest Service will provide volunteers and/or workforce to clean up after the event.
  8. Prohibit open garbage in any camp.
  9. Prohibit the use of glass containers on the riverbank
  10. Modify the schedule of fish transport from the trap to the fishing area to low use times.

Facility & Improvement Actions (Agency and RAC financed)

  1. Encourage dispersed camping at several locations by enhancing site access and usability (See Map 2).
  2. Improve the existing roads into the Dead Washer timber sale, Six Bit bench and Cabin Park areas by shaping and gravelling. The intent is to encourage dispersed camping outside the river corridor and closure area (See Map 2).
  3. Designate where parking can occur along the South Fork Road. Focus is on the four heaviest use areas along FDR#474
  4. Install jersey barriers; harden ditches and drainages with 1" aggregate where vehicle parking is acceptable. The focus is the same as #3.
  5. Shape existing turnouts.
  6. Harden the shoulders and turnouts with a layer of 1" diameter aggregate of South Fork road in key areas (See Map 2). Emphasis is on a five-mile section that is directly adjacent to the South Fork Salmon River (Nickel Hot spring to Goat Creek).
  7. Restore unnecessary access paths to a natural condition by seeding, hydro-mulching and whole tree or slash placement.
  8. Reshape, realign, or re-contour small sections of key access paths to river to eliminate long drainage runs down path.
  9. Construct rock steps, wooden stairways and/or box steps filled with 1" aggregate off road-fills and steep ridges/slopes in 16 key areas (See Map 2 for locations).
  10. Continue to provide a minimum of 12 Porta-Potties in key heavily used areas.
  11. Provide dumpsters at strategic locations.

 

Highway 21 Mechanical Fuels Reduction (#02011) – Dick Markley, Idaho City Ranger District

Total Project Cost: $330,000

Title II Request: $165,000

Reference Form Part 1 in your notebooks. The project costs have been modified due to further refinement of the proposal. The proposal may be presented as two separate projects: one with an estimated total cost of $180,000 (Title II portion: $90,000), and one with an estimated total cost of $150,000 (Title II portion: $75,000).