HomeMy WebLinkAboutRFP - P992 SOAPSTONE GRAZING LEASESPECIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT DOCUMENTS
Description of RFP: P992 Soapstone Grazing Lease
OPENING DATE: 3:00 P.M. (Our Clock) July 8, 2005
To all prospective bidders under the specifications and contract documents described above,
the following changes are hereby made.
Please find attached:
Pre -Proposal Attendance Sheet
HQ Pasture Detail Map
Note: Full sized copies of the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area Map are available
by calling 970-221-6775.
CHANGES AND CLARIFICATION:
• Grazing Lease Agreement Article XXV is omitted.
• Rotation of pastures to control larkspur is the responsibility of the lessee and should be
addressed in your response to the request for proposal.
• Ranch improvements and changes to the Canyon pasture for better access to water
should be addressed in your response to the request for proposal.
• Rest phase — addressed by reducing AUM's or fencing.
• AUM Defined:
o A yearlings weighing 10001b. shall constitute one (1) animal unit. (Other
yearlings will be addressed on a sliding scale with 10001b. equaling 1 unit,
900lbs equal .9 unit, etc.)
o Animal units are defined in the RFP. To calculate AUM's divide the allowable AU
by the number of months you plan to have cattle in the grazing unit. For
example, L&R is 1000 AU's; if you plan to graze 3 months, stocking rate will be
333 animal units.
• You should respond to the request for proposal as written and then provide alternative
options.
• Daily log should be maintained including rain gauge readings showing amount and
distribution of precipitation on the ranch.
• Fence repair should be done to adequately hold the livestock proposed for the grazing
lease.
• County road 15 access the City is trying to improve.
• Multiple ranchers can combine to respond to the request for proposal. There must be a
lead person and entity to enter into the contract with the City.
RECEIPT OF THIS ADDENDUM MUST BE ACKNOWLEDGED BY A WRITTEN STATEMENT
ENCLOSED WITH THE BID/QUOTE STATING THAT THIS ADDENDUM HAS BEEN RECEIVED.
215 €sri#a 'oirc^Y€ a 2"° J,'Iom m P.0. Bo580 -1 ort Col i€ s, (.A) 80522-0.780 . (970) 221-67- 5 - 1, ti, 078) , z ,0
ww w, gmv coni
SOAPSTONE PRAIRIE NATURAL AREA
GRAZING LEASE AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into this day of 2005, by
and between THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO, a municipal corporation
(hereinafter referred to as "the' Lessor"), and
(hereinafter referred to as "the Lessee").
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the Lessor is the owner of that certain real property, together with any
improvements located thereon, situated in the County of Larimer, State of Colorado, consisting
of approximately 12,588 acres of land, commonly known as the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area,
the legal description of which is set forth in Exhibit "A" attached hereto and incorporated herein
by reference (hereinafter referred to as "the Property"); and
WHEREAS, the Lessor currently leases from the State of Colorado approximately 3,862
acres of land, together with any improvements located thereon, which land is situated in the
County of Larimer, State of Colorado, the legal description of which is set forth on Exhibit "B"
attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference (hereinafter referred to as "the Colorado
Lease Lands"); and
WHEREAS, the Property and the Colorado Lease Lands shall be hereinafter referred to
collectively as "the Leased Premises'; and
WHEREAS, the Lessor desires to lease the Leased Premises to the Lessee for livestock
grazing purposes only, and the Lessee desires to lease the Leased Premises from the Lessor for
livestock grazing purposes only.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants, promises, and
agreements herein contained, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and
adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties do hereby covenant, promise, and
agree to and with each other as follows:
Article I. Lease of the Leased Premises.
1.1 The Lessor does hereby lease, demise, and let unto the Lessee, and the
Lessee does hereby hire and take from the Lessor the Property.
1.2 The lease of the Property to the Lessee as provided in paragraph 1.1
above, shall include all the improvements located upon the Property including, but not limited
to, the ranch headquarters facilities. However, the Lessee must employ a ranch manager to
occupy and use the ranch headquarters residence on a year round basis. This employee shall be
responsible for generally providing security and surveillance of the Property to prevent persons
from trespassing upon it. If the employee encounters or observes trespassers upon the Property,
the employee shall ask the trespasser to leave the property immediately and if necessary notify
the Larimer County Sheriffs Department and notify the Lessor. It shall be the responsibility
and obligation of the Lessee to ensure that its employee residing on the Property, their
dependents and any guests, strictly comply with the requirements and restrictions set forth in
this Lease Agreement, and with all applicable laws, regulations and other legal requirements, in
connection with the use or occupation of the Property.
1.3 The Lessor does hereby sublease unto the Lessee, and the Lessee does
hereby sublet from the Lessor the Colorado Lease Lands.
Article II. Term.
2.1 The term of this Lease shall be for a period of two (2) years and six (6)
months, commencing as of 12 noon on the 1 S` day of January, 2006, and continuing until 12
noon on the 3 1 " day of December, 2008, unless sooner terminated by operation of law or as
otherwise provided in this Lease Agreement.
2.2 Grazing may begin with certain restrictions May 15 and end Oct 15
unless moisture conditions and forage availability requires modification of time, dates, or
stocking rates (See Additional Provisions, Article XXVII). If modification is necessary, the
City of Fort Collins, in consultation with the lessee, will determine modified grazing dates and
stocking rates. The City of Fort Collins reserves the right to make the final decision.
The City of Fort Collins reserves the right to perform management activities at any time during
the year including the grazing season. Any management activity that has the potential to
influence stocking rates or grazing dates will be coordinated with the lessee (See Additional
Provisions, Article XXVII).
2.3 Initial stocking rates, grazing initiation and ending dates, animal unit months for
each pasture, and grazing rotation plans are identified in the agreed to Grazing Plan (see
Appendix A). Conditions under which modifications to this plan can be made are outlined in
Additional Provisions, Article XXVII, 27.3
Article III. Rent.
3.1 Except as otherwise provided in this Lease, the Lessee shall pay
to the Lessor, during the entire 30 month term of this Lease, a total rental in the total amount of
Dollars ($). The amount of such rent shall be calculated based upon the
formula of Dollars ($ ) per month for each animal (animal unity month or AUM)
unit grazed upon the Leased Premises for a minimum total of (#,###) animal
unit months per year. For purposes of this Lease, an animal unit (AU) shall be defined as
follows:
A cow and unweaned calf pair shall constitute one (1) animal unit.
2. A mature bull shall constitute one and one-half (1.5) animal units.
3. A yearling shall constitute one (1) animal unit.
4. A horse shall constitute one and one-half (1.5) animal units.
5. Five (5) sheep shall constitute one (1) animal unit.
6. A bison cow shall constitute one 1.0 animal unit.
7. A bison bull shall constitute one and one-half (1.5) animal units.
3.2 The annual rental for the term of this Lease shall be payable, without
demand or notice as follows: (1) the sum of Thousand Dollars ($##,###)
shall be due and payable by the Lessee to the Lessor on , 2006 and on
of each subsequent year of the term of the Lease; $ shall be due and payable
30% on May 15 and 70% on October 15 of each year.
3.3 All payments of rent shall be made by the Lessee to the Lessor at such
place as the Lessor may, from time to time, designate in writing. For the present, the Lessor
designates City of Fort Collins Natural Resources Department, P.O. 580 or 281 North College
Avenue, Fort Collins, Colorado 80522, as the place for the making of rental payments. All such
rent shall be payable in current legal tender of the United States as the same is then by law
constituted. Extensions of time for the payment of any installment of rent or the acceptance by
the Lessor of any money other than of the kind herein specified shall not be a waiver of the right
of the Lessor to insist on having all other payments of rent made in the manner and at the time
herein specified.
3.4 Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Article III, the Lessee
agrees that if the Lessor determines that the grazing conditions of the Leased Premises warrant
it, whether such conditions are drought, pestilence, insect infestation or any other similar
calamity, the Lessor may reduce the required maximum number of animal unit months from
per year to that which is appropriate under the then existing grazing conditions.
3.5 In the event that the Lessee shall fail to pay when due any rental payment
required under this Lease, the unpaid rental amount shall accrue interest at the rate of eighteen
percent (18%) per annum from the due date until paid.
Article IV. Use of Leased Premises.
4.1 The Lessee shall use the Leased Premises for livestock grazing purposes
only, except as otherwise provided in this Lease. The lease does not allow for feeding of
livestock outside of the corrals, private or commercial recreational rights, hunting shooting,
trapping or poisoning of wildlife of any kind, or control of prairie dogs. All pets must be on a
leash, caged or fenced, with the exception of two cats which may roam freely around the ranch
headquarters to control mice. Only licensed vehicles involved in ranching activities are allowed
beyond the ranch headquarters and are to remain on existing established roads. Unlicensed
vehicles are prohibited except that ATV's used for ranching activities may be used on or off
established roads. Off road use by ATVs shall be kept to an absolute minimum.
4.2 The Lessee shall not use the Leased Premises in such a manner so as to
violate any applicable law, statute, ordinance, rule, or regulation of any governmental entity or
body.
4.22 All cattle moved into Colorado from any other state or country
must strictly adhere to all Colorado Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department
of Agriculture regulations for animal movement into and within Colorado.
4.3. The Lessee shall not permit or suffer the use of or presence on the
Property by the general public or by any persons other than Lessee's employees or agents, who
shall be permitted to occupy or use the Property only to the extent required to carry out the
purposes of the Lease. Lessee's employee residing in the ranch headquarters residence may
have personal invitees in the residence, but any other presence on, or use of, the Property by
said invitees is expressly prohibited.
4.4 The lessee shall be responsible for security of the Leased Premises,
including by not limited to closing gates, reporting trespass or other violations to the Larimer
County Sheriff, Colorado Division of Wildlife or other appropriate jurisdiction. The Lessee
shall have at all times designated an appropriately trained and qualified person to take primary
responsibility for the Lessee in carrying out the requirements of this paragraph.
ARTICLE V. Maintenance and RMairs.
5.1 The Lessee covenants and agrees at all times during the term of this
Lease, to maintain and keep in orderly condition and in a good state of repair, all of the Leased
Premises and the improvements located thereon, including, but not by way of limitation, fencing
and the buildings constituting the ranch headquarters. The Lessee, however, shall only be
responsible for such maintenance and repairs that are ordinary and routine in nature (See
Additional Provisions in Article VI. Alterations and Improvements).
5.1.1 The lessee or an employee of the lessee must serve as the ranch manager
and occupy the house provided at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. Occupation must be for
the entire term of the lease. Utilities serving said house shall be the responsibility of Lessee.
Lessee shall be responsible for notifying Lessor of any condition in said house that render
the same not suitable for human habitation..
5.2 Lessee shall be responsible for notifying Lessor of maintenance and
repairs to the Leased Premises that are needed and are extraordinary and major in nature. The
Lessor shall be responsible for such maintenance and repairs (See Additional Provisions in
Article VI. Alterations and Improvements).
5.3 All maintenance and repairs to the Leased Premises required of the
Lessee shall be made promptly and when necessary. In addition, all such maintenance and
repairs shall be done in a good and workmanlike manner and in compliance with all applicable
laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, orders, regulations, and requirements of all federal, state, and
county governments and the appropriate departments, commissions, boards, and officers
thereof.
5.4 The Lessee shall keep the Leased Premises clean and in good sanitary
condition, as required by the statutes, ordinances, resolutions, and health, sanitary, and police
regulations of the County of Larimer and State of Colorado. The Lessee shall neither permit
nor suffer a disorderly noise or nuisance whatsoever about the Leased Premises having any
tendency to annoy or disturb any persons occupying adjacent land. The Lessee shall neither
hold nor attempt to hold the Lessor liable for any injury or damage, either approximate or
remote, occasioned through or caused by any maintenance, alterations, or repairs made by the
Lessee upon or to the Leased Premises or the improvements located thereon.
5.5 The Lessee shall be responsible for controlling noxious and toxic plants
found upon the Leased Premises. The cost of labor to control such plants shall be the sole
responsibility of the Lessee. The Lessor, however, shall be responsible for the cost of any
herbicides or other materials necessary to control such plants. In using any herbicides or other
materials to control noxious and toxic plants on the Leased Premises, the Lessee shall comply
with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations controlling the
application and storage of such herbicides and materials. In addition, the Lessee shall
indemnify and hold the Lessor, and its officers and employees, harmless from any and all
claims, judgments, penalties, fines, costs, and attorney's fees that may result from the Lessee's
use, application, and storage of such herbicides and other materials.
5.5.1 Dalmatian Toadflax. Lessee shall be responsible for implementing the
agreed upon plan to control the spread of Dalmatian toadflax (See Appendix B).
5.6. In addition to the Lessee's maintenance obligations as otherwise set forth
herein, the Lessee shall be responsible for maintenance of boundary and interior fences and
gates, and maintenance of all livestock watering facilities, including but not limited to
windmills, buried water pipes, pumps and stock tanks, which stock tanks shall be filled prior to
grazing activities and drained along with other water system infrastructure upon completion of
the grazing season.
5.7 If the Lessee fails to perform any maintenance or make any repairs
required of it to be made under this Lease, the Lessor may, but shall not be required to, make
such maintenance and repairs on the Lessee's account, and the Lessor may add its costs and
expenses for such repairs or replacements as additional rent due to the Lessor under this Lease.
Such amount shall then be paid to the Lessor by the Lessee within thirty (30) days after
receiving written notice from the Lessor of the costs and expenses paid by the Lessor for such
maintenance and repairs.
ARTICLE VI. Alterations and Improvements.
6.1 The Lessee shall make no alterations, additions, improvements, or
changes to the Leased Premises or the improvements located thereon without the prior written
approval of the Lessor. Any such alterations, additions, improvements, or changes approved by
the Lessor shall be done by the Lessee in a good and workmanlike manner and shall be in
compliance with all applicable building and zoning laws, and with all other applicable laws,
statutes, ordinances, orders, rules, regulations, and requirements of all federal, state, and county
governments and the appropriate departments, commissions, boards, and officers thereof.
6.1.1 Lessee is responsible to complete ranch improvements as agreed upon and
detailed in Appendix C.
6.2 The Lessee hereby indemnifies and agrees to hold the Lessor harmless
from all liens, claims, or charges on account of any alterations, additions, improvements, or
changes made to the Leased Premises or the improvements located thereon by the Lessee.
6.3 The Lessee shall be responsible for construction (and maintenance) or
any temporary fencing necessary to exclude cattle from an area or to facilitate rotational
grazing. Such temporary fencing shall be the property of the Lessee, except as other wise
agreed by the parties in writing.
ARTICLE VII. Covenant of Title and Quiet Enjoyment
7.1 The Lessor covenants that it is well seized of and has good title to lease
the Property and to sublease the Colorado Lease Lands, and does warrant and will defend the
title thereto and will indemnify the Lessee against any damage or expense which the Lessee
may suffer by reason of any lien, encumbrance, restriction, or defect in the title or description
herein of the Property and the Colorado Lease Lands existing prior to the date hereof, except
and subject to the following:
a. All easements, covenants, reservations, restrictions, rights -of -way, and
prescriptive or adverse rights, in place or of record;
b. Any restrictions, reservations, or exceptions contained in any United States or
State of Colorado patents of record;
C. All zoning and other governmental rules and regulations; and
d. All oil, gas or other mineral reservations or exceptions of record.
ARTICLE V1II. Insurance.
8.1 The Lessee, at its sole cost and expense, shall, during the term of this
Lease, procure, pay for, and keep in full force and effect workers compensation insurance for all
of its employees to be engaged in work on the Leased Premises under this Lease.
8.2 The Lessee, at its sole cost and expense, shall, during the term of this
Lease, procure, pay for, and keep in full force and effect a comprehensive policy of general
liability insurance covering the Leased Premises and insuring the Lessee in an amount not less
than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) covering bodily injury, including death to persons,
personal injury, and property damage liability arising out of a single occurrence. Such coverage
shall include, without limitation, the insured's' liability for property damage, bodily injuries, and
death of persons in connection with the operation, maintenance, or use of the Leased Premises
(including acts or omissions of the Lessee or of its officers, employees, or agents), liability
arising out of lawsuits related to employment contracts of the Lessee, and protection against
liability for non -owned and hired automobiles. Such coverage shall also include comprehensive
automobile liability insurance and coverage for such other risks as shall customarily be required
by private institutional mortgage lenders with regard to property similar in construction,
location, and use as the Leased Premises under this Lease Agreement.
8.3 All policies of insurance carried by the Lessee shall name the Lessee as
an insured and shall name the Lessor as an additional insured on the policy. The policy or
policies shall contain a provision that the policy or policies cannot be canceled or materially
altered either by the insured or the insurance company until fifteen (15) days prior written
notice thereof is given to the Lessor. Upon issuance or renewal of any such insurance policy,
the Lessee shall furnish a certified copy or duplicate original of such policy or renewal thereof
with proof of premium payment to the City. Any such policy shall contain waivers of
subrogation and waivers of any defense based on invalidity arising from any act or omission of
any assignees or subleases of the Lessee.
8.4 No policy of insurance required by this Article VIII shall include a
deductible clause in an amount greater than Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00). Any insurance
policy purchased by the Lessee must be written by an insurance carrier which has a current
rating by Best's Insurance Reports of "A" (Excellent) or better and a financial rating of "X" or
better or such equivalent classification as may hereinafter be required customarily for properties
similarly situated and it must be approved by the Lessee and the insurance carrier must be
authorized by law to do business in the State of Colorado. The Lessee shall not obtain any
policy which, under the terms of the carrier's charter, by-laws, or policy, loss payments are
contingent upon action by the carrier's board of directors, policy holders, or members. All
insurance policies carried by the Lessee may be reviewed at least annually by the Lessor to
ascertain that the coverage provided by such policy adequately covers those risks required by
this Article VIII to be insured by the Lessee.
8.5 In case of the breach of any provision of this Article VIII, the Lessor, at
its option, may take out and maintain, at the expense of the Lessee, such insurance as the Lessor
may deem proper and may bill the costs for such insurance directly to the Lessee. When so
billed, the Lessee shall reimburse the Lessor for the costs of such insurance within thirty (30)
days of being billed.
ARTICLE IX. Utilities.
9.1 The Lessee agrees to pay all charges for water and sewer service, gas,
electricity, light, heat, power, trash removal, telephone, and other communication services used,
rendered, or supplied upon or in the Leased Premises and the improvements located thereon,
and to indemnify the Lessor against any liability or damage on such account. All such utility
charges shall be paid by the Lessee before the date the same become delinquent.
ARTICLE X. Signs.
10.1 The Lessee shall not affix, erect, or maintain on the Leased Premises any
sign or placard without first obtaining the Lessor's prior written approval. The costs of erection
and maintenance of such sign or placard shall be the sole responsibility of the Lessee. In
addition, any sign or placard approved by the Lessor shall comply with all state and county
laws, rules, and regulations.
ARTICLE XI. Subletting and Assignment.
11.1 The Lessee covenants and agrees that it will not assign this Lease, any
interest or a part thereof, any right or privilege appurtenant thereto, nor mortgage or hypothecate
the leasehold without the prior written consent of the Lessor. A consent to one assignment or
hypothecation shall not be construed as a consent to any subsequent assignment or
hypothecation; and it is hereby mutually covenanted and agreed that, unless such written
consent has been obtained, any assignment or transfer or attempted assignment or transfer of
this Lease or any interest therein or hypothecation either by the voluntary or the involuntary act
of the Lessee or by operation of law or otherwise, shall, at the option of the Lessor, terminate
this Lease; and any such purported assignment or transfer without such consent shall be null and
void. The Lessor's consent to any such assignment shall not relieve the Lessee from any
obligation under this Lease unless the Lessor expressly agrees in writing to relieve the Lessee
from such obligation.
11.2 If this Lease shall be assigned, or if the Leased Premises or any part
thereof shall be sublet or occupied by anyone other than the Lessee, without the prior written
consent of the Lessor as required in paragraph 11.1 above, the Lessor may collect rent from the
assignee, subtenant, or occupant, and employ the net amount collected to the rent herein
reserved; and no such collection shall be deemed a release of the Lessee from the complete
performance of the covenants herein contained on the part of the Lessee to be performed.
ARTICLE XII. Mechanic's Liens.
12.1 The Lessee agrees to pay or cause to be paid promptly all bills and
charges for material, labor, or otherwise in connection with or arising out of any alterations,
additions, maintenance, repairs, or changes made by the Lessee or its agents or subtenants to the
Leased Premises; and the Lessee agrees to hold the Lessor free and harmless against all liens
and claims of liens for such labor and materials, or either of them, filed against the Leased
Premises or any part thereof and from and against any expense and liability in connection
therewith. The Lessee further agrees to discharge (either by payment or by filing the necessary
bond) any mechanic's, materialman's, or other liens against the Leased Premises arising out of
any payment due or alleged to be due for any work, labor, services, materials, or supplies
claimed to have been furnished at the Lessee's request in, on, or about the Leased Premises and
to indemnify the Lessor against any lien or claim of lien attached to or upon the Leased
Premises or any part thereof by reason of any act or omission on the Lessee's part. The Lessee
shall, however, have the right to contest any mechanic's lien or claims filed against the Leased
Premises, provided the Lessee shall diligently prosecute any such contest and at all times
effectively stay or prevent any sale of the Leased Premises under execution or otherwise and
pay or otherwise satisfy any final judgment adjudging or enforcing such contested liens and
thereafter procure record satisfaction of the release thereof. The Lessee also agrees in any such
contest, at the Lessee's cost and expense, to defend the same on behalf of the Lessor.
ARTICLE XIII. Condemnation
13.1 If, during the term of this Agreement: (a) the title to the whole or
substantially all of the Leased Premises shall be taken; or (b) if the Leased Premises shall be
deprived of adequate ingress or egress to or from all public streets and highways abutting the
Leased Premises, and the Lessee cannot reasonably operate upon the remainder of the Leased
Premises at the time of such taking as the result of the exercise of the power of eminent domain
(hereinafter referred to as "Proceedings"), then this Lease shall terminate as of the date of such
taking pursuant to such Proceedings. For the purpose of construing the provisions of this
Article, "Proceedings" shall include any negotiated settlement of any matter involved in a
condemnation; and a "taking" shall be deemed to occur when title to the Leased Premises or
possession thereof is acquired by another governmental authority, whichever first occurs.
13.2 If, during the term of this Lease, title to less than the whole or title to less
than substantially all of the Leased Premises shall be taken in any such Proceedings and the
Lessee can reasonably operate on the remainder of the Leased Premises at the time of such
taking, this Lease shall not terminate. The Lessee's obligation to pay rent as provided in Article
III. above, however, shall be adjusted accordingly.
13.3 All damages awarded for any taking described in this Article shall belong
to and be the property of the Lessor.
ARTICLE XIV. Total or Partial Destruction.
14.1 In case, during the term of this Lease, the Leased Premises or a
substantial part thereof shall be destroyed or shall be so damaged by fire or other casualties so
as to become unusable for livestock grazing purposes, then, in such event, at the option of the
Lessee, the term hereby created shall cease; and this Lease shall become null and void from the
date of such damage or destruction; and the Lessee shall immediately surrender the Leased
Premises and its interest therein to the Lessor. Provided, however, that the Lessee shall exercise
such option to so terminate this Lease by notice in writing delivered to the Lessor within thirty
(30) days after such damage or destruction. In addition, the Lessee shall continue to be liable to
the Lessor for such rent that will have accrued up to the date of termination of this Lease. In the
event the Lessor shall not so elect to terminate this Lease, this Lease shall continue in full force
and effect.
14.2 If the Leased Premises shall be only slightly injured by fire or the
elements so as not to render the same unusable for livestock grazing purposes, then the Lessor
shall repair the same with all reasonable speed. No compensation, off -set, or claim shall be
made by or allowed to the Lessee by reason of any inconvenience or annoyance arising from the
necessity of repairing any portion of the Leased Premises, however the necessity may occur.
ARTICLE XV. Holding Over.
Any holding over after the expiration of the term of this Lease Agreement
or any extended tern thereof, with the written consent of the Lessor, shall be construed to be a
tenancy from month -to -month on the same terms and conditions herein specified at the same
rental provided for herein.
ARTICLE XVI. Default of Lessee.
16.1 This Lease Agreement is made on the condition also that if any one or
more of the following events (hereinafter referred to as "an event of default") shall happen:
(a) The Lessee shall default in the due and punctual payment of the rent or any other
amounts required to be paid hereunder and such default shall continue for ten
(10) days after the receipt of written notice from the Lessor; or
(b) The Lessee shall neglect or fail to perform or observe any of the other covenants
herein contained on the Lessee's part to be performed or observed, and the
Lessee shall fail to remedy the same within thirty (30) days after the Lessee shall
have received from the Lessor written notice specifying such neglect or failure
(or within such period, if any, as may be reasonably required to cure such default
if it is of such a nature that it cannot be cured within said thirty (30) day period,
provided that the foundation shall have commenced to effect such a cure within
said thirty (30) days and shall proceed with due diligence to complete said cure);
or
(c) The Lessee shall: (i) be adjudicated as bankrupt or insolvent; (ii) file a petition
in bankruptcy or for reorganization or for the adoption of an arrangement under
the Bankruptcy Act (as now constituted or in the future amended); or (iii) make
an assignment of its property for the benefit of its creditors; or
(d) The Lessee shall neglect or fail to perform or observe any of the covenants
herein contained on the Lessee's part to be performed or observed within one
hundred and eighty (180) days after prior notice of any such neglect or failure,
whether or not such prior neglect or failure was remedied within the time period
provided in subparagraph (a) or (b), above.
Then, and in any one or more such events of default, the Lessor shall have the right, at its
election and while any such event of default shall continue, to give the Lessee written notice of
its intention to terminate this Lease on the date of such given notice or any later date specified
therein; and on such specified date, the Lessee's right to possession of the Leased Premises shall
cease; and this Lease shall thereupon be terminated. The Lessor may then re-enter and take
exclusive possession of the Leased Premises or any part thereof and repossess the same as the
Lessor's former estate and expel the Lessee and those claiming through or under the Lessee and
remove the effects of both or either (forcibly, if necessary) without being deemed guilty of any
manner of trespass and without prejudice to any remedies for arrearages of rent or preceding
breaches of covenants.
ATTENDANCE RECORD
PREBID CONFERENCE
Project: Soapstone Grazing Lease P992
Time: 8:30amDate: 6/21 /05
Location:215 N Mason 2A
PRINT
PRINT
ADDRESS
TELEPHONE
FAX #
E-MAIL ADDRESS
NAME
FIRM NAME
�i�l6—C)
�p
QHbtcvq
s/1
Its
7a
TO
J� (� Opera L.
f %%a� v ✓.�
C' �l
�76 ^�
3
ly
r
�- o VA le
-70 %%S8
�G 7
it/C R s
S�dor
16.2 Alternatively, the Lessor may elect if an event of default occurs not to
terminate this Lease, but the Lessor shall still have the right to elect to retake exclusive
possession of the Leased Premises by evicting the Lessee if the Lessee has not otherwise
abandoned the Leased Premises. In the event the Lessor elects to so take exclusive possession,
the Lessee shall not be relieved of its obligations and liabilities under the Lease, all of which
shall survive such repossession. In the event of such repossession, the Lessee shall pay to the
Lessor as current liquidated damages:
A. The then value of the rent and other sums as herein provided which would be
payable if such repossession had not occurred; less
B. The net proceeds, if any, of any reletting of the Leased Premises after deducting
all of the Lessor's expenses in connection with such reletting, including, without
limitation, all repossession costs, brokerage commissions, legal expenses,
attorneys fees, expenses of employees, and necessary alteration costs and
expenses in preparation of such reletting.
The Lessee shall pay such damages to the Lessor within thirty (30) days after receiving written
notice from the Lessor of such damages. If the Lessor shall be required to commence any
action or proceeding to collect the foregoing amounts, or to enforce any other obligation of the
Lessee under this Lease, the Lessor shall be entitled to reimbursement for all costs and expenses
incurred in said matter, including reasonable attorney's fees.
ARTICLE XVII. Attorneys Fees.
The Lessee shall pay and indemnify the Lessor against all legal costs and
charges, including attorneys fees, lawfully and reasonably incurred in obtaining possession of
the Leased Premises after default of the Lessee or termination of this Lease, incurred in
enforcing any covenant of the Lessee herein contained or any right granted to the Lessor, and
incurred in collecting any rent, monies, or other damages owed by the Lessee to the Lessor
under this Lease.
ARTICLE XVIII. Lessee to Save Lessor Harmless.
The Lessee covenants that it will indemnify and hold the Lessor, and its officers
and employees, harmless from all claims, demands, judgments, costs, and expenses, including
attorneys fees, arising out of any accident or occurrence causing injury to any person or
property whomsoever or whatsoever due directly or indirectly to the use or neglect of the
Leased Premises or any part thereof by the Lessee and its officers, agents, employees, licensees,
and invitees or any entity or person (and their officers, agents, employees, licensees, and
invitees) holding under the Lessee, unless such accident or occurrence results solely from the
tortious misconduct or negligent act or omission on the part of the Lessor, or its officers and
employees; and the Lessee will indemnify and hold harmless the Lessor, and its officers and
employees, from all damages and all penalties arising out of any failure of the Lessee, in any
respect, to comply with all of the requirements and provisions of this Lease Agreement; and the
Lessee covenants that the Lessee shall keep and save the Lessor, and its officers and employees,
and the Lessor's interest in and unto the Leased Premises forever harmless from any penalty,
damage, or charge imposed by any violation of any laws, whether occasioned by an act or
omission of the Lessee, or by another or others in the Leased Premises holding under or through
the Lessee. In addition, the Lessor, and its officers and employees, shall not be liable to the
Lessee for any livestock injuries or deaths, regardless of cause, incurred in connection with such
livestock grazing upon the Leased Premises under this Lease Agreement, unless such injuries or
deaths result from a negligent act or omission of the Lessor. However, any liability of the
Lessor, or of its officers and employees, to the Lessee shall be subject to all the defenses,
immunities, and limitations of the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act (Section 24-10-101, et
sec . and to any other defenses, immunities, and limitations to liability available to the Lessor,
and its officers and employees, under the law.
ARTICLE XIX. Notices.
Any notice or other communication given by either party hereto to the other
relating to this Lease Agreement shall be hand -delivered or sent by registered or certified mail,
return receipt requested, addressed to such other party at its respective addresses set forth
below; and such notice or other communication shall be deemed given when so hand -delivered
or three (3) business days after so mailed:
If to the Lessor:
Natural Areas - Natural Resources
Department
City of Fort Collins
Attn: John Stokes
P.O. Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
If to the Lessee:
With a copy to:
City Attorney's Office
City of Fort Collins
P.O. Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
With a copy to:
ARTICLE XX. Hazardous Material.
20.1 As used herein, the term "Hazardous Material" means any hazardous or
toxic substance, material, or waste which is or becomes regulated by any local governmental
authority, the State of Colorado or the United States Government. The term "Hazardous
Material" includes, without limitation, any material or substance that is: (i) defined as a
"hazardous substance" under applicable state law provisions; (ii) petroleum; (iii) asbestos; (iv)
designated as "hazardous substance" pursuant to Section 311 of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act (33 U.S.C. Section 1321); (v) defined as "hazardous waste" pursuant to Section
1004 of the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (42 U.S.C. Section 6903); (vi)
defined as a "hazardous substance" pursuant to Section 101 of the Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (42 U.S.C. Section 9601); or (vii)
defined as a "regulated substance" pursuant to Subchapter IX, Solid Waste Disposal Act
(Regulation of Underground Storage Tanks) (42 U.S.C. Section 6991).
20.2 The Lessee shall not cause or permit any Hazardous Materials to be
brought upon, kept, or used in or about the Leased Premises by the Lessee, its officers, agents,
employees, contractors, licensees, or invitees, without the prior written consent of the Lessor
(which the Lessor shall not unreasonably withhold as long as the Lessee demonstrates to the
Lessor's reasonable satisfaction that such Hazardous Material is necessary or useful to the
Lessee's operation; that it will be used, kept, and stored in a manner that complies with all laws
regulating any such Hazardous Material and will protect and preserve the Leased Premises and
any other property in a safe and environmentally sound condition; and that the Hazardous
Material will not materially interfere with the Lessor's use of the Leased Premises or cause
damage to said Leased Premises.) If the Lessee breaches the obligation stated in the preceding
sentence, or if the presence of Hazardous Material on the Leased Premises caused or permitted
by the Lessee results in contamination of the Leased Premises or if contamination of the Leased
Premises by Hazardous Material otherwise occurs for which the Lessee is legally liable to the
Lessor for damage resulting therefrom, then the Lessee shall indemnify, defend, and hold the
Lessor, and its officers and employees, harmless from any and all claims, judgments, damages,
penalties, fines, costs, liabilities, or losses (including, without limitation, diminution in value of
the Leased Premises, damages for the loss or restriction on use of the Leased Premises, and
sums paid in settlement of claims, attorneys fees, consulting fees, and expert fees) which arise
during or after the Lease term as a result of such contamination. This indemnification of the
Lessor by the Lessee includes, without limitation, any costs incurred in connection with any
investigation of site conditions or any clean-up, remedial, removal, or restoration work required
by any federal, state, or local governmental agency or political subdivision because of
Hazardous Material present in the soil or ground water on or under the Leased Premises.
Without limiting the foregoing, if the presence of any Hazardous Material on the Leased
Premises caused or permitted by the Lessee results in any contamination of the Leased
Premises, the Lessee shall promptly take all actions at its sole expense as are necessary to return
to the Leased Premises to the condition existing prior to the introduction of any such Hazardous
Material to the Leased Premises; provided that the Lessor's written approval of such action shall
first be obtained, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld so long as such action
would not potentially have any material adverse effect on the Leased Premises or the Lessor's
use of the Leased Premises.
ARTICLE XXI. Time of the Essence.
It is agreed that time shall be of the essence of this Lease Agreement and each and every
provision hereof.
ARTICLE XXII. Access and Use By Lessor.
It is expressly acknowledged and agreed that the Lessor, and its officers, employees, and
any other person properly authorized by the Lessor, shall at all times retain the right to enter
upon and use the Leased Premises for any purpose.
ARTICLE XXIII.. Education
23.1 The lessee or appropriate employee of the lessee shall participate in 6 public tours of the
Leased Premises each year. The lessee's participation will include describing ranching
operations on Soapstone Prairie Natural Area as well as the history of ranching in the area. The
Lessor may conduct any other tours, whether public or private, as Lessor deems reasonable and
not inconsistent with Lessee's grazing activities hereunder.
23.2 Lessee is responsible for short term monitoring program as outlined in Herrick etal.
2005. Monitoring manual for grassland, shrubland, and savanna ecosystems. Vol 1. USDA-
ARS Jornada Experimental Range.
ARTICLE XXIV. "AS -IS" Nature of Leased Premises.
The Lessee acknowledges and agrees that the Lessor has not made, does not make, and
specifically negates and disclaims any representations, warranties, promises, covenants,
agreements, or guarantees of any kind or character whatsoever, whether expressed or implied,
oral or written, past, present, or future, of, as to, concerning or with respect to the Leased
Premises and; (a) the value, nature, quality, or condition of the Leased Premises, including,
without limitation, the water, soil, and geology of the Leased Premises; (b) the income to be
derived from the Leased Premises; (c) the suitability of the Leased Premises for any and all
activities and uses which the Lessee may conduct thereon including the grazing of livestock; (d)
the compliance of or by the Leased Premises or its operation with any laws, rules, ordinances,
regulations of any applicable governmental authority or body; (e) the habitability,
merchantability, marketability, profitability, or fitness for a particular purpose of the Leased
Premises; (f) the manner or quality of the construction or materials, if any, incorporated into the
improvements located on the Leased Premises; (g) the manner, quality, state of repair or lack of
repair of the improvements located on the Leased Premises; or (h) any other matter with respect
to the Leased Premises and the improvements located thereon, and specifically, that the Lessor
has not made, does not make and specifically disclaims any representations regarding
compliance with any environmental protection, pollution, or land use laws, rules, regulations,
orders, or requirements, including solid waste, as defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency regulated at 40 C.F.R., Part 261, or the disposal or existence, in or on the Leased
Premises, of any hazardous substance, as defined by the Comprehensive Environmental
Response Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, and regulations promulgated
thereunder. The Lessee further acknowledges and agrees that having been given the
opportunity to inspect the Leased Premises, and the improvements located thereon, the Lessee is
relying solely on its own investigation of the Leased Premises and not on any information
provided or to be provided by the Lessor. The Lessee further acknowledges and agrees that any
information provided or to be provided with respect to the Leased Premises was obtained from a
variety of sources and that the Lessor has not made any independent investigation or
verification of such information and makes no representations as to the accuracy or
completeness of such information. The Lessee agrees that the Lessor is not liable or bound in
any manner by any verbal or written statements or representations, or information pertaining to
the Leased Premises, or the improvements located thereon, or the operation thereof, furnished
by any real estate broker, agent, employee, servant, or other person. The Lessee further
acknowledges and agrees that to the maximum extent permitted by law, the lease of the Leased
Premises as provided herein is made on an "AS -IS" condition and basis with all faults. It is
understood and agreed that the rent provided for under this Lease Agreement and any other
consideration provided by the Lessee under this Lease Agreement has been adjusted and taken
into consideration by the Lessee to reflect that all of the Leased Premises is being leased by the
Lessee from the Lessor subject to the foregoing.
ARTICLE XXVI. General Provisions.
26.1 Words of the masculine gender shall include the feminine and neuter
gender; and when the sentence so indicates, words of the neuter gender shall refer to any
gender. Words in the singular shall include the plural and vice versa.
26.2 This Lease Agreement shall be construed according to its fair meaning
and as if prepared by both parties hereto and shall be deemed to be and contain the entire
understanding and agreement between the parties hereto. There shall be deemed to be no other
terms, conditions, promises, understandings, statements, or representations, expressed or
implied, concerning this Lease Agreement unless set forth in writing and signed by both of the
parties hereto.
26.3 The Article headings used herein are for convenience of reference only
and in no way shall define or limit the scope or intent of any provision under this Lease
Agreement.
26.4 Subject to the provisions hereof, the benefits of this Lease Agreement and
the burdens hereunder shall inure to and be binding upon the parties hereto and their respective
heirs, administrators, successors, and permitted assigns.
26.5 The parties hereto agree that this Lease shall be governed by and its terms
construed under the laws of the State of Colorado. The parties further agree that any judicial
proceedings commenced by either of them to enforce any of the obligations, covenants, and
agreements contained herein, shall be commenced in the Larimer County District or County
Courts.
26.6 Nothing contained herein shall be deemed or construed by the parties
hereto nor by any third party as creating the relationship of principle and agent or a partnership
or a joint venture between the parties hereto, it being agreed that none of the provisions set forth
herein nor any acts of the parties herein shall be deemed to create a relationship between the
parties hereto other than the relationship of lessor and lessee.
26.7 Failure of the Lessor to exercise any right or rights accruing to it by
virtue of the Lessee's breach of any covenant, condition, or agreement herein shall not operate
as a waiver of the exercise of such right or rights in the event of any subsequent breach by the
Lessee, nor shall the Lessee be relieved thereby from its obligations under the terms of this
Lease Agreement.
26.8 This Lease Agreement is made for the sole and exclusive benefit of the
Lessor and the Lessee, their successors and assigns, and it is not made for the benefit of any
third party.
26.9 The remedies of the Lessor under this Lease shall be cumulative, no one
of them shall be construed as exclusive of any other or of any other remedy provided by law.
26.10 The Lessor reserves the right to grant to any third party such easements
and rights -of -way as it desires over, across, and under portions of the Leased Premises and to
lease all or any portion of the Leased Premises to any other third party so long as such
easements, rights -of -way, and leases do not unreasonably interfere with the Lessee's continuing
use of the Leased Premises as provided in this Lease Agreement.
26.11 No act or thing done by the Lessor or the Lessor's officers or employees
during the term hereof shall be considered as an acceptance of the surrender of the Leased
Premises, and no agreement to accept such surrender shall be valid unless in writing signed by
the Lessor.
26.12 The Lessee, upon the expiration or termination of this Lease, either by
lapse of term or otherwise, agrees to peacefully surrender to the Lessor the Leased Premises,
including the improvements located thereon together with any alterations, additions, and
changes made to such improvements by the Lessee during the term of this Lease Agreement, in
good repair, as hereinabove provided, and except for acts of God, ordinary wear, and damage by
fire or other casualty not caused by the negligence of the Lessee or anyone under the Lessee's
control.
26.13 The Lessee acknowledges and agrees that the Lessee has not relied upon
any statements, representations, agreements, or warranties except such as they are expressed
herein.
26.14 In the event any covenant, condition, or provision of this Lease
Agreement is held to be invalid by final judgment of any court of competent jurisdiction, the
invalidity of such a covenant, condition, or provision shall not in any way affect any of the other
covenants, conditions, or provisions of this Agreement, provided that the invalidity of any such
covenant, condition, or provision does not materially prejudice either the Lessee or the Lessor in
their respective rights and obligations under the valid covenants, conditions, and provisions of
this Lease Agreement.
26.15 To the extent necessary to carry out all of the terms and provisions
hereof, the said terms, obligations, and rights set forth herein shall survive and shall not be
affected by the expiration or tennination of this Lease Agreement.
26.16 The parties hereto acknowledge that certain items of personal property
may now be located on the Leased Premises. The Lessor makes no representations or
warranties regarding its ownership of any such items of personal property or regarding the
condition of such items. The parties hereto acknowledge that the said items of personal
property located on the Leased Premises and within the improvements located on the Leased
Premises may belong to third parties. The Lessee agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the
Lessor, and its officers and employees, from and against any liability for any improper use or
disposition by the Lessee of any items of personal property belonging to third parties.
26.17 Neither the Lessor nor the Lessee shall be deemed in violation of this
Lease Agreement if prevented from performing any of their respective obligations hereunder by
reason of strikes, boycotts, labor disputes, embargoes, shortage of energy or materials, acts of
God, acts of public enemies, acts of superior governmental authorities, weather conditions,
rights, rebellions, sabotage, or any other circumstances for which they are not responsible or
that are not within their control.
26.18 This Lease Agreement shall not be recorded. However, at the request of
the Lessee, the Lessor and the Lessee shall execute a memorandum of lease for recording,
containing the names of the parties, the legal description of the Leased Premises, the term of the
Lease and such other information as the parties shall mutually agree upon.
26.19 The obligations of the Lessor to commit or expend funds after calendar
year 2006 are subject to and conditioned upon the annual appropriation of funds sufficient and
intended to carry out said obligations by the City Council and the City of Fort Collins, in its sole
discretion. In the event of nonappropriation by the Lessor of funds necessary to carry out any
such obligations, resulting in a material impairment of Lessee's right hereunder, the Lessee
shall be entitled to terminate the lease with no further recourse against the Lessor, upon
provision of thirty (30) days written notice to Lessor within sixty (60) days of said
nonappropriation by Lessor.
ARTICLE XXVII. Additional Provisions.
27.1 Lessor has initiated a short and long-term monitoring program to
document change in plant cover, plant species diversity, residual cover, biomass removal,
and soil stability in grazed and ungrazed conditions. The ungrazed condition may be
represented by grazing exclosures placed within each grazing unit. Grazed condition will
be represented within each grazing unit outside of the grazing exclosures. The total acres in
each pasture shall be reduced by 10 acres to accommodate grazing exclosures. Lessor shall
be responsible for placement of exclosures and data collection in connection with the
monitoring program.
27.2 The lessee shall conduct in cooperation with City of Fort Collins staff, a
short term monitoring program as outlined in Herrick etal. 2005. Monitoring manual for
grassland, shrubland, and savanna ecosystems. Vol 1. USDA-ARS Jomada Experimental
Range (see attached). The Lessee shall gather data for all pastures (grazed and ungrazed)
consistent with the parameters and data points determined by the Lessor.
27.3 Grazing units and AUM/unit will be estimated one year in advance and
adjustments made to AUM and grazing dates prior to the start of the grazing season. The
adjustments will be based on precipitation, information from previous years monitoring
programs, and anticipated forage production. In no case shall the Lessee remove more than
50% of annual biomass in any given pasture in any grazing season.
27.4 The property is divided into 8 grazing units; as shown on Attachment A
attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference (acres stated are approximate):
Brannigan
3758 ac
L&R
4716 ac
Jack Springs
3204 ac
East Canyon
1162 ac
West Canyon
1395 ac
Meadow
707 ac
HQ
241 ac
State Line
751 ac
The total number of animal units (AU's) allowed within each pasture along with a general
grazing season structure are listed below. Pastures can be divided or combined for the purpose
of developing a grazing rotation. However, a detailed explanation for combining or dividing
pastures must be provided along with a determination that adequate water supplies and fences
exist. Lessee shall be responsible for the construction and maintenance of any temporary fence
necessary to exclude cattle from an area or to facilitate rotational grazing.
Brannigan, L&R, Jack Springs Pastures
L&R 1,000 AU
Jack Springs 825 AU
Brannigan 900 AU
Grazing may be initiated in one (1) pasture May 15 and may continue until August 1. Grazing
in the remaining two (2) pastures may be initiated June 1 and shall not be grazed more than
three (3) months during the time period of June 1 to October 15. No pasture shall be selected
for a May 15 start for consecutive years.
East Canyon, West Canyon, Meadow, HQ, State Line
East Canyon
270 AU
West Canyon
325 AU
Meadow
175 AU
State Line
210 AU
HQ
60 AU
Grazing may be initiated in two (2) pastures June 1. Grazing in the remaining three (3) pastures
may be initiated August 15. No pasture shall be selected for a June 1 start for consecutive
years. No pasture shall be grazed more than three (3) months during the time frame of June 1 to
October 15. Grazing in all pastures shall end on or before October 15.
Rest Phase
Approximately five percent (5%) of the total area available for grazing shall be rested each
grazing season. This 5% (approximately 800 acres) shall be in one contiguous block and shall
be selected annually in consultation with the Lessor. Adjustments to animal units will be based
on the range type in the rested area and the relative percentage of the rested area to the grazing
pasture where it is located. The parties may by written agreement on an annual basis chose
instead, to reduce grazing in any one pasture by 5% of the total available animal units or
approximately 185 AU.
6aSoapstone Prairie Natural Area
.ty°fF°IC°";ns HQ Pasture Detail
Natural Resaurce=
Stati
Ow
Legend
Public Improvements Stock tank Road Class Public Lands
ZRanch house Main Raad '. City of Fort Collins Natural Am
Windmill _ Secondary Road Leased firm State of Coloiado
.Cattle guard r.t ^'— Tertiary Road
Ratlio tower
Gate `-,� Fencelines
SaM lick I'�7,j Ecluded Pastures
HQ Pas turc 4
HQ Pasture 3
HQ Pastu re 5
HQ Pasture 6
HQ Pasture 2
Jack Springs A4rture
HQ Pasture 1
NN
WE
Q
0 250 500 1,000
Scale 1:7,500
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have caused this Lease Agreement to be
executed the day and year first above written.
ATTEST:
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
ATTEST:
THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO,
A Municipal Corporation
City Manager
Assistant City Attorney
LESSEE:
a Colorado Corporation
By:
Secretary
�ihnfFurtCollms
�ntu ral Re.. une.
Soapstone Prairie Natural Area
N
WE
CJ
—}i!l11-1... iWFV. *';ti 3 1—ji lJ-t JJJtM 3t{l ttli�'k}j'jraJY-!34{JpWil{ttJlttJli33tJJtii Jt4f�tHI tlJYlt1it12aJ l t pifi-KL{YiiTiYiliaiii4i 4iitiiiiii� YiiiiJ' { ti1iJY11iii1t
"Gi,Y6 [o ------
----+—
$
State Line
- •= --. -
Vl,,,t Canyon
+ rar/ialHmssslslt»ssr1ws11J�flf !!l!+{+l ++f•loau
i -�
-
.. 6„t Canyon
a
m
�alltt/a/Jrit
bkndom
tt�
w`
Yatlat/aY�#i#aHrrt;tYt}�}ytitiiiHVi4Fial/fiaktaitra;i•
tfaJ ititJ rill kt lJ lkt -
.,.
•
*
_.. -
-
-
r.
.. P.1�Imt 1 n6o/ding
M
.. •.
s
`\
./
-
-
ro
....^.
�
-
- �
�
Z .r BratmiQan �
lack S1, in I
�_
•.�
.
.._
••
•
...........
- _JJJiMtIlMLi-t3JJMJlII
r•nr.•w.•ealt.i ,..•
• •
i
- .. �..
�MIMMMIIpINpp
/
l
Ronnnt & Kr*2ik _
- .•
z
�+
-
- _
', .. .:
..,'1N;i;21JifY#H#rtMHiAfIH#t#ttflfll'f
J�
ll.l!l if 111 /l tlll/lllf ltit t{41fI1.1111J11lJl ltl tklttlllilltritlHll'Itltt#13fklid............ .i...... Mli4ff lllkH tl#f 1}kt1
.-..
if
Legend
--.
Public Improvements Road Class
Ranr:h h—,e M
Public Conserved Lands
Grrr Na L
..,
aA
O Cattle guard Secondary road
- • Gate Tertiary road
Cdh nl Cnliinc
-. Lease
al
1
1
or..
SaR hrk
Stock tank
� rMntill
"
•,. ,. :
Rad,a tower
t
Ntiles
Xc 1 24.00
ll 03 0.6
1.2
a r �' M
ays`c�r
0 , Lourn _ Burkeff and `hJ Ite, �.
e .
na
a
wit
Bro— on T PlafelI7O, et. �� C,�.7 I�r�C CjC3l'."�] C., IMikE) :Pell 7Fll,
David A. P ke, hva!: _7 D. RS;,h*Tt(ienga, Patrick S.havet
Arsr'rIu i • d,e 5 zo ?;I rc.J, iI uqelaood ell 5 Uri rlasc
Monitoring
Manual
for Grassland,
Shrubland and
Savanna Ecosystems
Volume I: Quick Start
by
Jeffrey E. Herrick, Justin W. Van Zee,
Kris M. Haystad, Laura M. Burkett and Walter G. Whitford
with contributions from
Brandon T. Bestelmeyer, Alicia Melgoza C., Mike Pellant,
David A. Pyke, Marta D. Remmenga, Patrick L. Shaver,
Amrita G. de Soyza, Arlene J. Tugel and Robert S. Unnosch
USDA - ARS Jornada Experimental Range
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Printed 2005
Publisher:
USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range
P.O. Box 30003, MSC 3JER, NMSU
Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003-8003
http: //usda-ars.nmsu. edu/
ISBN 0-9755552-0-0
Distributed by: The University of Arizona Press
Tucson, Arizona, USA
800-426-3 79 7
www.uapress.arizona.edu
Cover:
Department of Agricultural Communications
College of Agriculture and Home Economics
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003
Cover illustration:
Collecting Line -point intercept data
in a south-central New Mexico desert grassland.
CART k I
Alk k a 0-
he monitoring approach and methods
described here are the result of a collabora-
tion that began in 1994. The effort was led
by the USDA -Agricultural Research Service (ARS)
Jornada Experimental Range QER) in cooperation
with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) Office of Research and Development, the
Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and
the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The devel-
opment has been guided by suggestions from a
large number of individuals who represent
landowners, government agencies and environ-
mental organizations in the United States, Mexico,
Central America and Australia. New Mexico State
University faculty, scientists and members of the
USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range Focus
Group and scientists from the Estacion
Experimental La Campana in Chihuahua, Mexico,
in particular, have provided ongoing support and
input. Funding to support research associated with
the development and testing of these protocols has
been provided by the USDA-ARS, USDA-NRCS,
Holloman Air Force Base (AFB), Department of
Defense (DoD) Legacy Resources Program, the U.S.
EPA, and the National Science Foundation Long -
Term Ecological Research program under Grant No.
0080412. Any opinions, findings and conclusions
or recommendations expressed in this material are
those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect
the views of the National Science Foundation or
any of the other organizations listed here.
Countless reviewers, workshop participants, stu-
dents and technicians have tested the methods
described here. This input has been invaluable.
The manual and specific methods have been
improved by suggestions from individuals who rep-
resent the following organizationst:
Bureau of Land Management
(Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, Utah)
CATIE -Centro Agronomico Tropical de
Investigacion y Ensenanza (Costa Rica)
Cattle Growers (New Mexico)
CIAT-Centro de Investigacion de Agricultura
Tropical (Honduras)
Conservation Fund (New Mexico)
Department of Defense
(California, New Mexico, Texas)
INIFAP-Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones
Forestales, Agricolas y Pecuarias (Mexico)
Land EKG Inc. (Montana)
Mexican Protected Natural Areas
(Chihuahua and Sonora, Mexico)
The Nature Conservancy
Natural Resources Conservation Service
(Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana,
New Mexico)
New Mexico State University
Peter Sundt Rangeland Consultants
The Quivira Coalition
Synergy Resource Solutions, Inc.
USDA Agricultural Research Service
(Arizona, Colorado, Oregon)
USDA-NRCS Grazing Lands Technology Institute
USDA-NRCS Soil Quality Institute
USDA-NRCS National Soil Survey Center
U.S. Forest Service (Colorado, New Mexico)
U.S. Geological Survey, Biological Resources
Division (Colorado, Utah)
U.S. National Park Service
(California, Nevada, Utah)
This is Volume I of a two-part document. The second volume includes guidance on monitoring program
design and interpretation, as well as additional methods. For updates, electronic copies of data forms and
links to palm and Windows CE versions, please visit the USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range web site
(usda-ars.nmsu.edu/).
]This list does not necessarily imply endorsement by these organizations.
Acknowledgements............................................................................................................. iv
Introduction........................................................................................................................ 1
IsQuick Start All I Need?.................................................................................................... 1
HowTo Establish a Monitoring Program.............................................................................. 2
Long -Term Methods (you may not need them all)................................................................. 6
• Photo points (for visual record of data)....................................................................... 6
• Line -point intercept (for cover and composition).......................................................... 9
• Gap intercept (to monitor areas that are susceptible
towind or water erosion and weed invasion)..........................................................16
• Soil stability test (for soil susceptibility to water erosion)...............................................23
• Belt transect (for measuring perennial invasive plants and woody species) ....................30
Short -Term Monitoring....................................................................................................... 34
• Grazing Management.............................................................................................. 35
• Recreation and Off -Road Vehicle Management.......................................................... 36
iv
Introduction
This manual describes how to monitor three
rangeland attributes: soil and site stabil-
ity, watershed function and biotic
integrity. Nearly everything we value about
rangelands depends on these attributes.
Monitoring these three attributes is like moni-
toring the foundation of our rangeland ecosys-
tems. The measurements used to monitor these
attributes also can be used to generate indicators
relevant to specific management objectives, such
as maintaining wildlife habitat, biodiversity con-
servation or producing forage.
Monitoring the key attributes:
Soil and site stability
Hydrologic function
Biotic integrity
Do I have to read the whole thing?
No. Even the Quick Start volume, which includes
only the basics, probably includes some things you
don't need. Start with photos for long-term moni-
toring. Record short-term observations and data on
the appropriate Short -Term Monitoring Data Form.
You can add quantitative measurements as you
have time available. In some cases, you may need
to refer to Volume II (see the questions below).
Units
Both English and metric units are included. For
simplicity, many of these conversions are approxi-
mate. For example, the rough equivalent for a 50 m
line is listed as 150 ft instead of 164 ft. This is
because it is easier to select 50 points along a 150 ft
transect (every 3 ft). For precise conversions. please
see Volume II, Appendix B.
Quick Start is the only volume needed if all of the following are "true."
What to ask yourself:
True
False
If false, then see
Volume II .. .
My management objectives are fairly well described (Table 1).
Chapter 1
I already know where I want to monitor.
Chapters 5-6
The basic monitoring strategy (Table 1) sounds reasonable,
Chapter 4
and I am either not aware of compaction or other problems
not covered by the basic methods or I have decided not
to monitor these problems.
I'm comfortable with a standard number of measurements
Chapter 4
(page 5) that will allow me to document large changes
but may miss smaller changes.
I am not planning to monitor riparian areas.
Chapter 4
I already know how to interpret the indicators.
Chapter 17*
*For information about how to calculate additional indicators and interpret your results, please see
Volume II, Chapters 16 and 17.
r
Long- and short-term
monitoring
We recommend a combination of short-term
and long-term monitoring (Table 1). Long-term
monitoring (pages 6-33) is designed to document
changes in the condition of the land, such as
changes in soil structure and plant basal cover, and
is normally repeated every one to five years. Short-
term monitoring (pages 34-36) may be repeated at
any time interval and is designed to check whether
or not the management system is being followed
(how much residual cover remains, or how much
Figure 1. Monitoring invasive species in a belt transect.
biomass is removed). Long-term monitoring is used
to generate a "trend record," while short-term
monitoring is used to establish an "annual -use
record."
Table 1. Examples of long- and short-term management objectives and the associated monitoring strategies
described in Volume I. For other objectives and strategies, please refer to Volume II. Levels 1-III refer to
increasing monitoring intensity. Level II is the semiquantitative alternative to the standard methods
(Level III). Both options are described in the following pages.
Long-term monitoring Short-term monitoring
Management Sustainability: Maintain or increase
objectives land productivity* and the number of
land use options.
Minimize risk of land degradation.
Monitoring Monitoring Intensity Level I
strategy Photo points
Monitoring Intensity Levels II and III
Photo points and one or more of the
following measurements:
1. Line -point intercept (III) or step point (11)
(for cover and composition)
2. Gap intercept (III) or step gap (II)
(for size of bare patches)
3. Soil stability test (III) or bottle cap test (II)
(for soil erosion resistance)
4. Belt transects (III) (for invasive species)
Maintain adequate cover to limit soil
erosion and promote water infiltration.
Maintain or increase cover of one or more
species that persist through catastrophic
disturbances (drought, fire). Limit invasive
species.
Monitoring Intensity Level I
Daily to monthly observations
Monitoring Intensity Level II
Daily to monthly observations and
1. Step -point (percent cover only)
2. Step -gap (percent steps completely in
bare patches)
*Productivity includes all services that the land provides, not just forage production.
11
How To Establish a Monitoring Program
Monitoring and Management Flow Chart
Define management and monitoring objectives
Select monitoring sites and indicators
Establish and describe monitoring sites and record
long-term monitoring data (baseline)
Year 1:
Establish long-term I
monitoring program i
Every Year: Record short-term monitoring data
Maintain Annual
Event Record
JShort-term monitor
ing) Adjust management (e.g., move livestock)
Repeat long-term monitoring measurements, compare data with Year 1
and interpret changes using the Annual Event Record (short-term monitoring data)
and the interpretation section of Volume Il.
Year 5:
1
Repeat long-term Refine management strategy
monitoring (e.g., change season of use or increase fire frequency)
Figure 2. Quick Start monitoring program design, implementation and integration with management.
For more detail on monitoring program design, see chapters 1-6 in Volume II.
3
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
P992 Soapstone Grazing Lease
City of tort Collins
Written proposals, five (5) will be received at the City of Fort Collins' Purchasing Division, 215
North Mason St., 2nd floor, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524. Proposals will be received before
3:00 p.m. (our clock), July 8, 2005. Proposal No. P992. If delivered, they are to be sent to 215
North Mason Street, 2"d Floor, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524. If mailed, the address is P.O. Box
580, Fort Collins, 80522-0580.
A pre -proposal meeting will be held at 8:30 A.M. on June 21, 2005 in conference room 2A with
a tour of the site to following the meeting.
Questions concerning the scope of the project should be directed to Project Manager Daylan
Figgs 970-416-2814.
Questions regarding proposals submittal or process should be directed to James B. O'Neill, II,
CPPO, FNiGP (970) 221-6775.
A copy of the Proposal may be obtained as follows
1. Call the Purchasing Fax -line, 970-416-2033 and follow the verbal instruction to
request document #30992.
2. Download the Proposal/Bid from the BuySpeed Webpage,
https:Hsecure2.fcqov.com/bso/login.isp
3. Come by Purchasing at 215 North Mason St., 2"d floor, Fort Collins, and request
a copy of the Bid.
Sales Prohibited/Conflict of Interest: No officer, employee, or member of City Council, shall
have a financial interest in the sale to the City of any real or personal property, equipment,
material, supplies or services where such officer or employee exercises directly or indirectly
any decision -making authority concerning such sale or any supervisory authority over the
services to be rendered. This rule also applies to subcontracts with the City. Soliciting or
accepting any gift, gratuity favor, entertainment, kickback or any items of monetary value from
any person who has or is seeking to do business with the City of Fort Collins is prohibited.
Collusive or sham proposals: Any proposal deemed to be collusive or a sham proposal will be
rejected and reported to authorities as such. Your authorized signature of this proposal
assures that such proposal is genuine and is not a collusive or sham proposal.
The City of Fort Collins reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to waive any
irregularities or informalities.
Sincerely,
Ja e III II, PPO, FNIGP
Di or of Purchasing & Risk Management
215 North Mason Street • 2n1 Floor • P.O. Box 580 • Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 • (970) 221-6775 • Fax (970) 221- 6707 www.fceov.con
How To Establish a Monitoring Program
Quick Start Monitoring program checklist*
Step Done?
Define monitoring objectives.
Assemble background information (maps, photos)
and select general areas you would like to monitor.
Select monitoring sites. This may involve preliminary
evaluations of risk or opportunity for change.
Select indicators.
Describe each monitoring site's management, slope,
soil texture and depth.
Establish permanent transects and begin monitoring.
*For a more detailed checklist, see the Introduction of Volume 11, Section 1.
Measurement options
Standard transect layout
• Standard transect length is 50 in (150 it).
• Spoke design covers a 1-hectare (-2.S acres) plot and
is the most efficient. Transects begin 5 in (15 ft) from
the plot's center to focus trampling around center / • \
stake and minimize disturbance effects on transects.
• Parallel transect design is best for crossing boundaries
(forest -pasture) and other linear features, such as XForest
riparian zones.
Pasture
Paper data collection forms are included for each method. Each data form includes
calculations for standard indicators. For updates, electronic versions of the data forms
and automated indicator calculations please visit the USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental
Range web site (usda-ars.nmsu.edu).
10
How To Establish a Monitoring Program
Estimated time requirements for Quick Start long-term measurement options.
Time" No. of
Method -page No.* (hours) people Indicators generated
Photos (for visual 3 0.1 2 None
record of data), page 6
Line -point intercept 150 pts.
(for plant cover and (50/line)
composition), page 9
Canopy gap intercept 3 lines
(to monitor areas that
are susceptible to wind
erosion and/or weed
invasion), page 16
Basal gap intercept 3 lines
page 16
Soil stability test 18
(for soil susceptibility samples
to water erosion), page 23
Belt transect (for
invasive species), page 30
Photos Line -point
Intercept
0.5 2 Plant canopy cover (%)
Plant basal cover (%)
Bare ground (%)
0.4 2 Proportion of line covered
by large gaps between
plant canopies
0.4 2 Proportion of line covered
by large gaps between
plant bases
0.5 1 Average surface stability:
• total
• under canopy
• not under canopy
* No. = Total number needed for three 50 m transects.
Number of invasive
plants per hectare
Soil stability test Belt transect
** Total hours for a team of two people, except for Soil stability, which only requires one person. Estimates
are based on averages for an experienced team working in a variety of desert plant communities. Time
requirements are extremely variable. One person can complete all methods, but we have found it most
efficient to have a data recorder and an observer (except for Soil stability). Allow for an additional half
hour when first establishing the permanent transects.
[61
rMMV5M "0�2
Photo points Standard methods (rule set)
1. Establish photo point
Use Photo points to qualitatively monitor how Rules
vegetation changes over time. Permanent photo- 1.1 Drive center stake into ground, leaving
graphs of a landscape are useful for detecting less than 30 cm (1 ft) exposed.
changes in vegetation structure and for visually doc- 1.2 Drive transect stakes into ground 5 m (15 ft)
umenting measured changes. Take at least one photo from center stake at 120" intervals to mark
of each transect. If you take digital photos, be sure to beginning of the three transects.
print and store photos in plastic photo storage 1.3 Cover stakes with 60 cm (3/4-in) PVC
sheets. Slide the photo card (page 8) behind the (optional for safety and visibility).
photo in the plastic storage sheet. For more informa- 1.4 Mark the far end (50 m) of each transect
tion on photo point monitoring, see the USFS Photo with a stake if the location will be used for
Point Monitoring Handbook vegetation and/or soil measurements. Use
(www.fs.fed.us/pnw/pubs/gtr526/). same procedure described in 1.2 and 1.3.
Materials
• Tape measure (5 m (15 ft) minimum)
• Four 60 cm (2 ft) rebar stakes `
• Four 60 cm (2 ft) 3/4-in PVC pipe
• Compass
35 mm or digital camera with a 50 mm- 5 m (15 ft) �m (15 ft)
• equivalent lens (1:1 ratio). If a wide angle,
telephoto or zoom is used, be sure to record R
lens and camera information. Transect \`
• Photo point (ID) board (chalk or whiteboard) stakes 5 m (15 ft)
or Photo point (ID) card (page 8) on a clip- Center
board stake
• Thick marking pen
• One 1.Sm (5 ft) long, 3/4-in diameter
PVC pipe. 3
Figure 3. Transect stake locations for spoke
design. Stakes mark beginnings of
each transect. Base of stake located
at bottom center of photo.
Ground cover photo option
Use each of the three transect stakes as one corner of a permanent plot (usually lxl m or
3x3 ft) and mark the other three corners with small stakes. Before taking the photo, mark
the perimeter with a piece of rope or meter/yard sticks. Place the camera over the center
of the plot at a standard height and take the photo.
L
Long -Term Methods: Photo points
Figure 4. Photographer is at plot center and Photo point ID board
marks beginning of one of the three transects.
2. Record photo information
Rules
2.1 Record date, location, precipitation and
management history since the last photos
were taken on a 7.5x12.5 cm (3x5 in) card
or on one of the Short -Term Monitoring
data forms (page 35 or 36).
3. Set up first photo
Rules
3.1 Remove PVC sleeve from center stake and
replace with 1.5 m (5 ft) PVC pipe. Be
sure that the pipe rests on the ground.
3.2 Label photo point ID board and lean it next
to or hang it on the stake, marking the
beginning of the first transect.
Site:
Date:
Plot:
Line #:
Direction:
Figure S. Photo point ID board.
4. Take first photo (Fig. 4).
Rules
4.1 Set camera body on top of (1.5 m) center
pole and point it down the first line.
4.2 Place bottom of nearest transect pole at
the photo's bottom center.
4.3 Take photo.
S. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 for the other two photos.
Riparian note: At riparian sites, take
two additional photos. Stand in mid -
channel, hold camera-1.5 m (5 ft) above
the ground and position bottom of
viewfinder on a point located 5 m (15 ft)
away. Take one photo facing upstream
and one downstream.
7
Site:
Date41
:
Plot:
Line #:
Direction:
Photo point ID card
Long -Term Methods: Line -point interce t
Line -point intercept
Line -point intercept is a rapid, accurate method
for quantifying soil cover, including vegetation, lit-
ter, rocks and biotic crusts. These measurements are
related to wind and water erosion, water infiltration
and the ability of the site to resist and recover from
degradation. For a detailed discussion of this and
other methods for measuring plant cover and/or
composition, see Elzinga et al. 20012. For alternative
Line -point intercept methods (including height
measurements) see Volume It.
Materials
• Measuring tape (length of transect)—if using
a tape measure in feet, use one marked in
tenths of feet.
• Two steel pins for anchoring tape
• One pointer —a straight piece of wire or
rod, such as a long pin flag, at least 75 cm
(2.5 ft) long and less than 1 mm
(1125 in) in diameter
• Clipboard, Line -Point Intercept Data Form
(page 12) and pencil(s)
Standard methods (rule set)
1. Pull out the tape and anchor each end with
a steel pin (Fig. 6).
Rules
1.1 Line should be taut.
1.2 Line should be as close to the ground as pos-
sible (thread under shrubs using a steel pin
as a needle).
2. Begin at the "0" end of the line.
3. Working from left to right, move to the first
point on the line. Always stand on the same
side of the line.
Figure 6. Transect line pulled taut.
4. Drop a pin flag to the ground from a standard
height (_ cm (_in)) next to the tape (Fig. 7).
Rules
4.1 The pin should be vertical.
4.2 The pin should be dropped from the same
height each time. A low drop height mini-
mizes "bounces" off of vegetation but
increases the possibility for bias.
4.3 Do not guide the pin all the way to the
ground. It is more important for the pin to
fall freely to the ground than to fall precisely
on the mark.
Step -point or pace transect with pain (Semiquantitative alternative)
Use a pin flag dropped in front of your boot instead of the points on the tape.
Limitations:
Less accurate because it is difficult to walk a straight line, especially through shrubs. Using
the toe of a boot instead of a pin creates additional errors because the boot often pushes
plant canopies into interspaces. This leads to overestimates of plant canopy cover.
2Elzinga, C.L., D.W. Salzer, J.W. Willoughby and J.P. Gibbs. 2001. Monitoring Plant and Animal Populations, Blackwell Publishing. 368 pp.
r
-Term Methods: Line -point i
4.4 A pair of lasers with a bubble level can be
used instead of the pin. This tool is useful
in savannas where canopy layers may be
above eye level. See Appendix A
(Monitoring tools) in Volume II for suppli-
ers.
5. Once the pin flag is flush with the ground,
record every plant species it intercepts.
Rules
5.1 Record the species of the first stem leaf or
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
plant base intercepted in the "Top canopy"
column using the PLANTS database species
code (http://nlants.usda.gov/), a four-letter
code based on the first two letters of the
genus and species, or the common name.
If no leaf, stem or plant base is intercepted,
record "NONE" in the "Top canopy" col-
umn.
Record all additional species intercepted by
the pin.
Record herbaceous litter as "L," if present.
Litter is defined as detached dead stems and
leaves that are part of a layer that comes in
contact with the ground. Record "W" for
detached woody litter that is greater than
5 mm (or -1/4 in) in diameter and in direct
contact with soil.
Record each canopy species only once, even
if it is intercepted several times.
If you can identify the genus, but not the
species either use the PLANTS database
genus code (http://plants.usda.gov) or
record a number for each new species of
that genus. ALWAYS define the genus por-
tion of the code and the functional group at
the bottom of the data form (Artemisia
species = AROI).
If you cannot identify the genus, use the
following codes:
AF# = Annual forb (also includes
biennials)
PF# = Perennial forb
AG# = Annual graminoid
PG# = Perennial graminoid
SH# = Shrub
TR# = Tree
If necessary, collect a sample of the
unknown off the transect for later
identification.
Figure 7. Point falling on bare soil (NONE/S).
5.8 Canopy can be live or dead, but only
record each species once. Be sure to
record all species intercepted.
6. Record whether the pin flag intercepts a plant
base (Fig. 8) or one of the following in the
"Soil surface" column.
R = Rock (> 5 mm or -1/4 inch in dia-
meter)
BR = Bedrock
EL = Embedded litter
D = Duff
M = Moss
LC = Lichen crust on soil (lichen on rock is
recorded as "R")
S = Soil that is visibly unprotected by any
of the above
Rules
6.1 For unidentified plant bases, use the codes
listed under 5.7.
6.2 Record embedded litter as "EL" where
removal of the litter would leave an inden-
tation in the soil surface or would disturb
the soil surface. Record duff as "D" where
there is no clear boundary between litter
and soil and litter is not removed during
typical storms (occurring annually).
6.3 Additional categories may be added, such
as "CYN" = dark cyanobacterial crust.
10
Long -Term Methods: Line -point intercept
Table 2. Sample data form for examples illustrated below. Points 1 and 2 show the first two points on
a line. In Point 1, the pin flag is touching dead fescue, live bluegrass, clover, live fescue, litter and a
rock. Record fescue only once, even though it intercepts the pin twice. In Point 2, the flag touches fes-
cue, then touches litter and finally the fescue plant base. Table 2 shows how to record these two points
on the data form.
pt.
Top canopy
Lower canopy layers
Soil surface
Code 1
Code 2
Code 3
1
Fescue
Bluegrass
Clover
L
K
2
Fescue
L
Fescue
3
Fescue
L
5
etc.
Fescue
(dead) 4--
Pin flag
Clover
(live)
Fescue
Blue rass
(live
(live)
Litter
Rock
Soil
Point 1
Point 2
Basal cover
�..
Plant base
Figure 8. Area defined as
plant base and included as
basal cover.
Riparian note: Line -point 'intercept collected perpendicular to the channel is often used
to monitor riparian zone width. A modified point intercept method is used to monitor
"greenlne" vegetation along the channel's edge (Vol. II, Chapter 13).
Page of
Plot:
Direction:
Line #: Observer:
SDI �elt� �cir:cc�l►
Recorder:
Date: Intercept (Point) Spacing Interval = cm ( — in)
% canopy (foiiar) cover'=„,,,,_canopy pts (1st col) x 2 =,,,,__%,
% bare ground' _ _pts (w/NONE over S) x 2 = .,_ �,%
%'basal cover = _.,._ plant base,pts (last col) x 2 =_%
TO canopy codes: Species code, common name,
or NONE (no canopy).
Lower canopy layers codes: Species code, common
name, L (herbaceous litter), W (woody litter, >5 mm
(-1/4 in) diameter).
Unknown
Species Codes:
AF# = annual forb
PF# = perennialforb
AG# = annual
graminoid
PG# = perennial
graminoid
SH# = shrub
TR# tree
Soil Surface (do not use litter):
Species Code (for basal intercept)
R = rock fragment (>5 mm
[-1/4 in) diameter)
BR = bedrock, M = moss
LC = visible lichen crust on soil
S = soil without any other soil
surface code
EL = embedded litter (see page 10)
D = doff
'Bare ground occurs ONLY when Top canopy = NONE,
Lower canopy layers are empty (no Q, and Soil surface = S.
12
Long -Term Methods : Line-eoint intercept
Line -point intercept
indicator calculations
Canopy cover (as calculated here) does not include
bare spaces within a plant's canopy.
1. Percent canopy (foliar) cover
Rules
1.1 Count the total number of canopy inter-
cepts in the "Top canopy" column and
record this number in the blank provided.
1.2 Canopy intercepts include all points where
a plant is recorded in the "Top canopy"
column. Do not include points that have
a "NONE" in the "Top canopy" column.
1.3 Multiply the number of canopy inter-
cepts (from 1.1) by 2* and record your
"% canopy cover" in the blank provided.
2. Percent bare ground
Rules
2.1 Count the total number of points along the
line that have bare ground and record this
number in the blank provided.
2.2 Bare ground occurs only when:
A. There are no canopy intercepts
(NONE is recorded in the "Top
canopy" column).
B. There are no litter intercepts
("Lower canopy layers" columns
are empty).
C. The pin only intercepts bare soil
("S" recorded in the "Soil surface"
column).
2.3 Multiply the number of bare ground hits
(from 2.1) by 2* and record your "% bare
ground" in the blank provided.
3. Percent basal cover
Rules
3.1 Count the total number of plant basal inter-
cepts in the "Soil surface" column and
record this number in the blank provided.
3.2 Plant basal intercepts occur anytime the pin
intercepts a live or dead plant base (Species
code recorded in "Soil surface" column).
3.3 Multiply the number of basal intercepts
(from 3.1) by 2* and record your "% basal
cover" in the blank provided.
*For 50 points per line. Multiply by 1 for 100 points per line.
Multiply by 4 for 25 points per line.
13
P992 Soapstone Grazing Lease
SCOPE
A. Project Description
Soapstone Prairie Natural Area is located in northern Larimer County, just south of the
Colorado/Wyoming border and approximately five miles west of I-25. The portion of
Soapstone Prairie Natural Area included for the purpose of this Request for Proposals consists
of approximately 16,450 acres divided into 8 pastures and includes a ranch house located in the
northeast portion of the property. Please refer to Attachment A for location of pastures, water
tanks, and ranch buildings.
B. Project Specifics
The City of Fort Collins is soliciting proposals for the purpose of leasing Soapstone Prairie
Natural Area for seasonal livestock grazing for a period of 3 years beginning in May 2006 and
ending in October 2008. Annual grazing season dates are detailed below.
The City of Fort Collins currently is preparing a management plan for Soapstone Prairie Natural
Area with an expected completion date in 2009. A second RFP for seasonal grazing may be
advertised in June 2008 for a longer period of time beginning in May 2009.
Grazing may begin May 15 and end Oct 15 unless moisture conditions and forage availability
requires modification of time, dates, or stocking rates. If modification is necessary, the City of
Fort Collins, in consultation with the lessee, will determine modified grazing dates and stocking
rates. The City of Fort Collins reserves the right to make the final decision.
The City of Fort Collins reserves the right to perform management activities at any time during
the year including the grazing season. Any management activity that has the potential to
influence stocking rates or grazing dates will be coordinated with the lessee.
A short and long-term monitoring program will be initiated in 2005 to document change in plant
cover, plant species diversity, residual cover, biomass removal, and soil stability in grazed and
ungrazed conditions. Ungrazed condition may be represented by grazing exclosures placed
within each grazing unit. Grazed condition will be represented within each grazing unit outside
of the grazing exclosures. The total acres in each pasture shall be reduced by 10 acres to
accommodate grazing exclosures. City of Fort Collins staff will be responsible for placement of
exclosures and data collection.
The lessee will be required to conduct in cooperation with City of Fort Collins staff, a short
term monitoring program as outlined in Herrick etal. 2005. Monitoring manual for grassland,
shrubland, and savanna ecosystems. Vol 1. USDA-ARS Jomada Experimental Range (see
Attachment B). Data are to be gathered on a weekly basis for all pastures (grazed and
ungrazed).
Grazing units and AUM/unit will be estimated one year in advance and adjustments made prior
to the start of the grazing season. These adjustments may increase or decrease allowable AU's
Table 3. Line -point intercept data form example showing a 50-point line and associated indicator calculations.
Page 1 of 1 sh1dlrclr t
Plot: 3 Line #: 2 Observer: Jane Smith Recorder: David Fatrick
Direction: 1200 Date: 10/15/2002 Intercept (Point) Spacing Interval = 100 cm (— in)
Pt.
Top
canopy
Lower canopy layers
Soil
surface
Pt.
Top
canopy
Lower canopy layers
Soil
surface
Code 1
Code 2
Code 3
Code 1
Code 2
Code 3
1
DOER
GOER
26
PRGL
BOEK
5
2
DOER
5
27
NONE
L
5
3
5'01
GOER
5
28
DOER
LC
4
DOER
5
29
SP01
DOER
5
5
NONE
5
30
YUEL
L
5
6
50ER
5
31
BoEK
5
7
NONE
L
5
32
NONE
R
8
NONE
5
33
DOER
5
9
DOER
5
34
NONE
L
5
10
60ER
L
5
35
BOEK
5
11
DOER
L
5
36
DOER
L
BOER
12
DOER
5
37
DOER
L
5
13
NONE
5
38
DOER
L
5
14
BOER
5
39
NONE
5
15
NONE
L
5
40
NONE
L
5
16
NONE
K
41
GOER
5
17
BOEK
5
42
FPGL
5f 01
5
18
DOER
BOER
43
PRGL
5
19
NONE
R
44
5P01
5
20
BOEP
5
45
NONE
5
21
DOER
5
46
BOER
5
22
5P01
5
47
DOER
GOER
23
BOEK
L
5
48
BOEK
L
5
24
NONE
L
5
49
NONE
L
5
25
NONE
L
5
50
DOER
GU5A
5
% canopy (foliar) cover '= 54 canopy pis (l:st col) x 2 _ %
% bare ground' _ 55 pts (w/NONE over 5) x 2 = 1� 0 , %
%bosal cover = 4 plant base pts (last cal) x 2 - %
TO canopy codes: Species code, common name,
or NONE (no canopy).
Lower canopy layers codes: Species code, common
name, L (herbaceous litter), W (woody litter, >5 mm
(-1/4 in) diameter).
Unknown
Species Codes:
AF# = annual Farb
PF# = perennial forb
AG# = annual
graminoid
PG# = perennial
graminoid
SH# = shrub
TR# = tree
Soil Surface (do not use litter):
Species Code (for basal intercept)
R = rock fragment (>5 mm
(-1 /4 in) diameter)
BR = bedrock, M = moss
LC = visible lichen crust on soil
S = soil without any other soil
surface code
EL = embedded litter (see page 10)
D = duff
'Bare ground occurs ONLY when Top canopy = NONE,
Lower canopy layers are empty (no L), and Soil surface = S.
M
Long -Term Methods: Line -point intercept
Line -point intercept basic bility. Use these indicators together with the Belt
transect to track changes in species composition.
interpretation For more information about how to interpret these
indicators, please see Chapter 17 in Volume II.
Increases in canopy cover are correlated with
increased resistance to degradation. Basal cover is
a more reliable long-term indicator. Basal cover is
less sensitive to seasonal and annual differences in
precipitation and use. Increases in bare ground
nearly always indicate a higher risk of runoff and
erosion.
Where species composition changes may be
occurring, calculate basal and canopy cover for
each major species. Canopy cover usually is used
for shrubs, trees and sometimes grasses. Basal cover
is used for perennial grasses. When calculating
single species canopy cover, be sure to include each
time the species is intercepted, regardless of
whether it is in the top or lower canopy layer.
Use these indicators together with the indicators
from the Gap intercept and the Soil stability
test to help determine whether observed erosion
changes are due to loss of cover, changes in the
vegetation's spatial distribution, or reduced soil sta-
Typical effect on each attribute of
an increase in the indicator value
Soil and site
Hydrologic
Biotic
Indicator
stability
function
integrity
Canopy
cover N
+
+
+
Bare
ground (IM)
-
-
-
Basal
cover (%)
+
+
+
15
Long -Term Methods: Gap intercept
Gap intercept
Gap intercept measurements provide informa-
tion about the proportion of the line covered by
large gaps between plants. Large gaps between
plant canopies are important indicators of potential
wind erosion and weed invasion. Large gaps
between plant bases are important indicators of
runoff and water erosion.
Materials.
• Measuring tape (at least as long as transect)—if
tape is in feet, use one marked in tenths of feet.
• Two steel pins for anchoring tape
• Meter stick or other stiff stick
• Clipboard, Gap Intercept Data Form (page 20)
and pencil(s)
Standard methods (rule set)
Steps 1.4 for both canopy and basal gap
intercept.
1. Pull out the tape and anchor each end with
steel pin.
Rules
1.1 Line should be taut.
1.2 Line should be as close to the ground as
possible (thread under shrubs using a steel
pin as a needle).
2. Begin at the "0" end of the line.
3. Work from left to right, move to the first
point on the line. Always stand on the same
side of the line.
Rules
3.1 Look straight down on the tape. Use a
meter stick or other stiff stick to project a
line vertically to the ground.
3.2 Assume that there is a wall at each end of
the tape. Do not consider gaps or vegeta-
tion that occur off the end of the tape.
4. Record whether or not annuals are included.
Rules
4.1 The standard method is to include annual
grasses and ignore annual forbs due to the
Figure 9. A canopy gap.
highly variable and ephemeral nature of
forb production in most and and semiarid
ecosystems.
4.2 Annuals may be ignored in ecosystems
where they have little effect on reducing
wind and water erosion and/or where
their occurrence is extremely variable
among years.
4.3 Apply the same method each year.
druid step for canopy gop intercept
5. Record the beginning and end of each gap
between plant canopies longer than 20 cm
(0.7 ft).
Rules
5.1 Canopy occurs any time 50% of any 3 cm
(0.1 ft) segment of tape edge intercepts live
or dead plant canopy based on a vertical
projection from canopy to ground. Always
read on the graduated side of the tape.
5.2 The minimum gap size can be increased or
decreased as appropriate for the site. For
example, where wind erosion is important,
the minimum gap size can be increased for
plant communities with tall vegetation.
Once monitoring has begun, the minimum
gap size can only be increased. Be sure to
record the minimum gap size on the
data form.
5.3 A plant canopy can stop a gap whether live
or dead.
5.4 Record the start and end of a gap to the
nearest centimeter (or 0.1 ft).
final°step t�c:bsl gtp irtrspt
6. Record the beginning and end of each gap
between plant bases longer than 20 cm (0.7
ft).
Rules
6.1
M
6.3
6.4
6.5
A plant base is any plant stem emerging
from the soil surface along the graduated
edge of the tape that would force an ant
walking along the line on the soil to step
off the line to get around it (minimum
diameter = 1 mm or 1/25 of an in).
A basal gap occurs any time there is at least
20 cm (0.7 ft) of intercept without a plant
base. Therefore, there should always be at
least 20 cm (0.7 ft) between basal gap starts
and basal gap ends.
A plant base can stop a gap whether live
or dead.
Plant bases may be live or dead, but they
must be anchored in the ground. Litter is
not a plant base. Where litter is an impor-
tant obstruction to runoff, the rules can be
changed to include it. Be sure to record
this change on the data form and in your
rule set.
Record the start and end of a gap to the
nearest centimeter (or 0.1 ft).
Long -Term Methods. Gap intercept
{
C
t.
antxtative alternative)
aces in each direction (e.g.,
MOO) and record the number= of
larger than a particular size that your t
lands in.
Indicator = 100 x No. of gaps
Total No. acres
P
r
s
E!
17
Long -Term Methods: Gala intercept
Plant canopy
(top -down view) Not a canopy Canopy gap from
gap (< 20 cm) 40 to 77 cm
0 cm 50 cm 100 cm
Basal gap from
Plant base 8 to 34 cm Note: Each hatch
mark is In cm.
(top -down view)
Figure 10. Example of canopy gap intercepts (above the line) and basal gap intercepts (below the line)
for 1 m (100 cm) of a 50 m line. Canopy gaps: There is a gap between 40 and 77 cm
because the plant canopies present do not cover more than 50% of any 3 cm segment. Basal
gaps: There is a basal gap between 8 and 34 cm. Because the three small plant bases
between 34 cm and 86 cm are all within 20 cm of an adjacent plant base, there are no basal
gaps even though there is a canopy gap.
Table 4. Gap intercept data form example associated with Figure 10.
Canopy gaps: Minimum size = 20 cm
Basal gaps: Minimum size = 20 cm
Starts
Ends
Gap size
25-50
51-100
101-200
>200
Starts
Ends
Gap size
25.50
51-100
101-200
>200
40
77
37
37
8
34
26
20
When using feet instead of meters, use the decimal (1/10) side of the tape. Most long tape
measures include inches on one side and 1/10s of feet on the other. This makes calculations
much easier.
E
Long -Term Methods: Gap intercept
Plant canopy Not a canopy gap because there is
(top -down view) < 20 cm of gap along the measured area,
even though the gap is 20 cm long
(remember, a 'brick wall" at 0 m and 50 m).
Canopy gap from 13 to 68 cm
A
0 cm •
Plant base
(top -down view)
50 cm
Basal gaps from 0 to 76 cm and from 77 to 99 cm.
CM
Note.- Each hakbi
marts is A -cm..
Figure 11. Example of canopy gap intercepts (above the line) and basal gap intercepts (below the line)
for 1 m (100 cm) of a 50 m line. Canopy gaps: Look at the plant canopy intercept between
the 20 and 30 cm marks on the transect. Because each canopy intercept covers less than 50
percent of a 3 cm segment of the line, it does not count as canopy.
Table 5. Gap intercept data form example associated with Figure 11.
Canopy gaps: Minimum size = 20 cm
Basal gaps: Minimum size = 20 cm
Starts
Ends
Gap size
25-50
51-100
101-200
>200
Starts
Ends
Gap size
25-50
51-100
101-200
>200
15
68
55
55
O
76
76
76
77
99
22
Riparian note: No changes are needed for this method in riparian areas.
IN
Gap Intercept Data Form
Monitoring plot Line: Date: dbd t t3
Reader: Recorder: Line Length m or ft Page of
x100 x100 x100 x100 x100 x100 x100 x100
I % of line in gaps I I I I 1 % of line in gaps
Example: If SUM 25-50 = 1,573, Line Length = 5,000 cm, then % of line in gaps 25-50 cm = 100 x (SUM 25-50/line
length) = 100 x (1,573/5,000) = 31.5%.
20
Gap intercept indicator
calculations
1. Canopy gaps: Calculate the percentage of the
line covered in gaps 25-50 cm, 51-100 cm,
101-200 cm and greater than 200 cm long.
Rules
1.1 Calculate each Gap size in centimeters
(Gap ends - Gap starts) for each canopy
gap entered on the data sheet.
1.2 If a gap is 25-50 cm long, record its "Gap
size" (cm) under the "25-50" column.
Repeat this for the remaining columns
(51-100, 101-200 and >200) and for all gaps.
1.3 Add the gaps up for each shaded column
and record this value next to "SUM" on the
data form. This is the total amount of the
line (in centimeters) covered by gaps 25-50,
51-100, 101-200, >200 cm.
1.4 Record the "LINE LENGTH" in centimeters
on the data form. Line length is equal to
Term Methods:
the length of the line (in meters) multi-
plied by 100.
1.5 Starting with the gaps 25-50 cm, divide the
"SUM" by the "LINE LENGTH" and multi-
ply this value by 100 to obtain the percent
of the line covered in gaps 25-50 cm.
Record this value under the appropriate col-
umn next to "% of line in gaps". Repeat
this for gaps 51-100, 101-200, and >200 cm.
2. Basal gaps: Calculate the percentage of the
line covered in gaps 25-50 cm, 51-100 cm,
101-200 cm and greater than 200 cm long.
Rules
2.1 Follow steps 1.1 through 1.5 above for
basal gaps.
3. Optional for canopy and basal gaps: Use a dif-
ferent color or pattern to mark a slice of the
pie chart for each gap's size class. The dark
green section represents the area covered by
plants and gaps less than 25 cm (Fig. 12).
Table 6. Gap intercept data form example showing part of a 50-m line and associated indicator
calculations.
Canopy gaps: Minimum size = 20 cm (_ft)
Basal gaps: Minimum size = 20 cm (_ft)
Starts
Ends
Gap size
25.50
51-100
101-200
>200
Starts
Ends
Gap size
25-50
51-100
101-200
>200
40
60
20
27
64
37
37
101
202
101
101
70
264
194
237
963
726
726 ''
269
459
1 00
190
4704
4754 1
50
50
5560
4784
1224
1224
4761
4925
164
1644
4720
4813
93
g5
4931
5000
69
69
4817
5000
183
185
SUM (cm)
50
69
265
726
SUM (cm)
37
93
507 11224
LINE LENGTH (cm)
5000
5000
5000
5000''
LINE LENGTH (cm)
5000
5006
5000
5000
of line in gaps
1/°
1.41°
5.3°!
14.5%
% of line in gaps
o.7/°
t. /.
11.3%
24.5%
100 x (50/5000) t
100 x (265/5000)
100 x (69/5000) 100 x (726/5000)
f
100 x (37/5000) 100 x (56715000)
100 x (93/5000) 100 x (1224/5000)
21
Lons-Term Methods; Gap intercept
Gap intercept basic
interpretation
Increases in the proportion of the line covered
by canopy gaps are related to increased risk of
wind erosion and invasive "weed" species establish-
ment. For example, wind velocities in most areas of
the western United States are capable of moving
disturbed soil in 50-cm (20-in) gaps in grasslands.
Disturbed soil in gaps 1-2 m (3-6 ft) in diameter is
nearly as susceptible to erosion as that with no veg-
etation. Minimum gap size required to cause wind
erosion increases with vegetation height. Increases
in the proportion of the line covered by large
basal gaps reflect increased susceptibility to water
erosion and runoff. Plant bases slow water move-
ment down slopes. As basal gaps increase, there are
fewer obstacles to water flow, so runoff and erosion
increase. Increases in large basal gaps have a greater
effect where rock and litter cover are low, because
they are the only obstacles to water flow and ero-
sion.
1.4%
1% 51-100cm
Canopy Gap Pie Chart
5.3%
-200 cm
Use these indicators together with the cover
indicators from the Line -point intercept and the
Soil stability test to help determine whether
observed erosion changes are due to loss of cover,
changes in spatial distribution of vegetation or
reduced soil stability. Where the gaps are approxi-
mately circular, the typical gap diameter is approxi-
mately 1.3 times the gap intercept. For more infor-
mation about how to interpret these indicators,
please see Volume II, Chapter 17.
Typical effect on each attribute of
an increase in the indicator value
Soil and site
Hydrologic
Biotic
Indicator
stability
function
integrity
Canopy
gaps (%)
-
-
-
Basal gaps
(`YO)
—
—
—
0.7% 1.9%
25-50 cm 51.100 cm
Basal Gap Pie Chart
11.3%
I1-200 cm
Figure 12. Examples of how to present gap intercept data in pie charts. Size of each pie slice is proportional
to the area covered by each type of gap.
22
Long -Term Methods: Soil stability test
Soil stability test
The Soil stability test provides information about
the degree of soil structural development and ero-
sion resistance. It also reflects soil biotic integrity,
because the "glue" (organic matter) that binds soil
particles together must constantly be renewed by
plant roots and soil organisms. This test measures
the soil's stability when exposed to rapid wetting.
It is affected by soil texture, so it is important to
limit comparisons to similar soils that have similar
amounts of sand, silt and clay (see Volume tI,
Appendix E for a simple field procedure to deter-
mine soil texture).
Materials:
• Complete soil stability kits (see Appendix A in
Vol. II for construction and suppliers)
• Deionized water (or any noncarbonated
bottled water, except mineral water) 1 L
(32 oz)
• Clipboard, Soil Stability Test Data Form
(page 27) and pencil(s)
• Stopwatch
Standard methods (rule set)
This is easier than it sounds! With a little prac-
tice, it takes about 10-IS minutes to sample and
10 minutes to test 18 samples.
1. Randomly select 18 sampling points and
decide whether you will collect surface sam-
ples only (1 box), or surface and subsurface
samples (2 boxes).
Rules
1.1 Use 18 randomly selected points along the
transects used for line -point and gap inter-
cept measurements.
Figure 13. Excavate small trench.
1.2 Record sampling locations (points) under
"Pos" on the data form.
1.3 Always sample at least 5 cm (2 in) from any
vegetation measurement line.
1.4 Include subsurface samples if you are inter-
ested in soil erodibility after disturbance.
2. Determine the dominant cover class over the
random point and enter this into the "Veg"
column on the data form.
Rules
2.1 The area to be classified is effectively as
large as the sample area (6-8 mm (1/4 in) in
diameter).
2.2 Record the dominant cover class in the
"Veg" column (optional):
NC
= no perennial grass, shrub or tree
canopy cover
G
= perennial grass canopy and
grass/shrub canopy mixture
F
= perennial forb
Sh
= shrub canopy
T
= tree canopy
3. Collect a surface sample.
Rules
3.1 Excavate a small trench (10-15 mm
(1/2 in) deep) in front of the area
to be sampled (Fig. 13).
3.2 Lift out a soil fragment and trim it (if neces-
sary) to the correct size.
3.3 The soil fragment should be
2-3 mm (<1/8 in) thick and 6-8 mm
(1/4 in) in diameter (Figs. 14 and 15).
This is the diameter of a wood
pencil eraser. 'Fry to fit sample in •
this dot (6-8 mm dia.).
Figure 14. Collect surface sample. Figure 15. Ensure correct sample size.
23
and will be based on precipitation, information from previous years monitoring programs, and
anticipated forage production. In no case shall the lessee be allowed to remove more than 50%
of annual biomass in any given pasture in any grazing season.
The property is divided into 8 grazing units, as shown on Attachment A; acres are approximate:
Brannigan
3758 ac
L&R
4716 ac
Jack Springs
3204 ac
East Canyon
1162 ac
West Canyon
1395 ac
Meadow
707 ac
HQ
241 ac
State Line
751 ac
The total number of animal units (AU) allowed within each pasture along with a general grazing
season structure are listed below. Pastures can be divided or combined for the purpose of
developing a grazing rotation. However, a detailed explanation for combining or dividing
pastures must be provided along with a determination that adequate water supplies and fences
exist. Lessee is responsible for the construction and maintenance of any temporary fence
necessary to exclude cattle from an area or to facilitate rotational grazing.
Brannigan, L&R, Jack Springs Pastures
L&R
1000 AU
Jack Springs
825 AU
Brannigan
900 AU
Grazing may be initiated in one (1) pasture May 15 and may continue until August 1. Grazing
in the remaining two (2) pastures may be initiated June 1 and shall not be grazed more than
three (3) months during the time period of June 1 to October 15. No pasture shall be selected
for a May 15 start for consecutive years.
East Canyon, West Canyon, Meadow, HQ, State Line
East Canyon
270 AU
West Canyon
325 AU
Meadow
175 AU
State Line
210 AU
HQ
60 AU
Grazing may be initiated in two (2) pastures June 1. Grazing in the remaining three (3) pastures
may be initiated August 15. No pasture shall be selected for a June 1 start for consecutive
years. No pasture shall be grazed more than three (3) months during the time frame of June 1 to
October 15. Grazing in all pastures shall end on or before October 15.
Long -Term Methods. Soil stability test
3.4 Collect samples at the exact point. Move the
sample point only if it has been disturbed dur-
ing previous measurements or the soil surface
is protected by a rock or embedded litter. Move
the point a standard distance (1 m) and note
this change on the data form.
3.5 Minimize shattering by: a) slicing the soil
around the sample before lifting; b) lifting out
a larger sample than required, and trimming it
to size in the palm of your hand; or c) misting
the sample area before collection (see 3.6).
3.6 If the soil sample is too weakly structured to
sample (falls through the sieve), mist it lightly
with deionized water (use an atomizer or
equivalent) and then take a sample. Perfume
and plastic hair spray bottles work well for
this. If the sample still will not hold together,
record a "1" on the data form.
3.7 If the soil surface is covered by a lichen or
cyanobacterial crust, include the crust in the
sample. If the sample is covered by moss, col-
lect the sample from under the moss.
3.8 Gently place the sample in a dry sieve
(Fig. 16); place sieve in the appropriate cell of a
dry box.
4. Collect a subsurface sample (optional, see Step 1).
Rules
4.1 Sample directly below the surface sample.
4.2 Use the flat, square (handle) end of the scoop
to gently excavate the previous trench (in
front of the surface sample) to a depth of
3-4 cm (1 1/2 in).
4.3 Directly below the surface sample, remove soil
so that a "shelf" is created with the top step
2-2.5 cm (3/4-1 in) below the soil surface (Fig.
17).
4.4 Use the scoop to lift out a subsurface sample
from below (Fig. 18).
4.5 The soil fragment should be 2-3 mm
(<1/8 in) thick and 6-8 mm (1/4 in)
in diameter.
4.6 See steps 3.5-3.6. If you encounter a rock,
record "R" and move to the next sample.
4.7 Place the sample in a dry sieve; place sieve in
the dry box. Leave box lid open (Fig. 19).
Riparian note: No changes are needed for
this method in riparian systems.
Figure 16. Place sample in sieve.
Figure 17. Excavate trench for
subsurface sample.
Figure 18. Collect subsurface sample.
Figure 19. Complete soil stability kit
with water and samples.
24
Lon -Term Methods: Soil stability test
5. Make sure the surface and subsurface samples
are dry.
Rules
5.1 Samples must be dry before testing. If samples
are not dry after collecting, allow to air dry
with the lid off.
5.2 Do not leave lid closed on samples for
more than 1 minute on hot/sunny days.
Excessive heat can artificially increase or
decrease stability.
6. Fill the empty (no sieves) box with deionized
or distilled water (Fig. 19).
Rules
6.1 Fill each compartment to the top.
6.2 The water should be approximately the
same temperature as the soil.
7. Test the samples.
Rules
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
Lower the first sieve with the sample into
the respective water -filled compartment —
upper left corner of sample box to upper
left corner of water box (Fig. 20).
From the time the sieve screen touches the
water surface to the time it rests on the bot-
tom of the box, 1 second should elapse.
Start the stopwatch when the first sample
touches the water. Use Table 7 to assign
samples to stability classes.
After five minutes, follow the sequence of
immersions on the data form, adding one
sample every 15 seconds. Beginners may
want to immerse a sample every 30 seconds.
This allows nine samples to be run in 10
minutes, so it takes 20 minutes to test one
box of 18 samples.
Table 7. Stability class ratings.
Stability
class Criteria for assignment to stability class
Figure 20. Place first sample in water.
7.5 Observe the fragments from the time the
sample hits the water to 5 min (300 sec)
and record a stability class based on Table 7.
7.6 Raise the sieve completely out of the water
and then lower it to the bottom without
touching the bottom of the tray. Repeat
this immersion a total of five times. Do this
even if you have already rated the sample a
1, 2 or 3 (you are allowed to change your
rating if after sieving, >10% of soil remains
on sieve).
7.7 It should take 1 second for each sieve to
clear the water's surface and 1 second to
return to near the bottom of the box.
7.8 Hydrophobic samples (float in water after
pushed under) are rated 6.
Bottlecap test
(Semiquantitative alternative)
Place a soil fragment in a bottle cap filled with
water. Watch it for 30 seconds. Gently swirl the
water for 5 seconds. Assign one of three ratings:
M= Melts in first 30 seconds (without swirling)
D= Disintegrates when swirls (but does not melt)
S= Stable (even after swirling)
1 50% of structural integrity lost (melts) within 5 seconds of immersion
in water, OR soil too unstable to sample (falls through sieve).
2 50'%, of structural integrity lost (melts) 5-30 seconds after immersion.
3 50% of structural integrity lost (melts) 30-300 seconds after immersion,
OR < 10% of soil remains on the sieve after five dipping cycles.
4 10-25% of soil remains on the sieve after five dipping cycles.
5 25-75% of soil remains on the sieve after five dipping cycles. Figure 21. Sample in
6 75-100 % of soil remains on the sieve after five dipping cycles. sieve, drawn to scale.
25
-Term Methods: Soil stability test
Sequence for stability class = 1.
Monitoring plot:
Soil Stability Test Data Form
Observer:
Recorder:
Date:
Page of
Veg = NC (no perennial canopy), G (grass or grass/shrub mix), F (form); Sh (shrub), T (tree). # = Stability value (1-6). Circle value if samples are hydrophobic.
Surface
Line.
In
time
Dip
time
#
Line _
In
time
Dip
time
#
Line _
In
time
Dip
time
#
LineHVeq
In
Dip
time
#
Line
In
time
Dip
time
#
Line
In
time
Dip
time
#
Pos
Veg
Pos
Veg
Pos
Veg
Postime
Pos
Veg
I PoslVegi
0:00
5:00
0:15
5:15
0:30
5:30
0:45
5:45
1:00
6:00
1:15
6:15
1:30
6:30
1:45
6:45
2:00
7:00
2:15
7:15
2:30
7:30
2:45
7:45
3:00
8:00
3:15
8:15
3:30
8:30
3:45
8:45
4:00
9:00
4:15
9:15
Notes:
Subsurface
Line _
In
time
Dip
time
#
Line _
In
time
Dip
time
#
Line _
In
time
Dip
time
#
Line _
In
time
Dip
time
#
Line _
In
time
Dip
time
#
Line _
In
time
Dip
time
#
Pos
Veg
Pos
Veg
Pos
Veg
Pos
Veg
Pos
Veg
Pos
Veg
0:00
5:00
0:15
5:15
0:30
5:30
0:45
5:45
1:00
6:00
1:15
6:15
1:30
6:30
1:45
6:±J3
00
7:00
2:15
7:15
2:30
7:30
2:45
7:45
3:00
8:00
3:15
8:30
8.30
3:45
8:45
4:00
9:00
4:15
9:15
Notes:
Avg. Stability = Sum of Stability Rankings (i.e., #) / Total No. Samples Taken
Line
All samples
Protected samples
(Samples w/Veg = G, Sh, or T)
Unprotected samples
(Samples w/ Veg = NC)
Surface
Subsurface
Surface
Subsurface
Surface
Subsurface
Plot Avg.
Long -Term Methods: Soil stability test
Soil stability indicator
calculations
1. Calculate the average stability for all samples.
Rules
1.1 Add together all stability values. Divide this
sum by the total number of samples taken.
Record this value as the average stability for
"All samples" on your data form.
2. Calculate the stability for protected soil
(Veg = G, F, Sh, or T).
Rules
2.1 Add together all values that were protected
by canopy (Veg = G, F, Sh, or T). Divide this
sum by the number of samples in this
group. Record this value as the average
stability for "Protected samples" on your
data form.
3. Calculate the average stability for unprotected
samples.
Rules
3.1 Add together all stability values that were
classified as no canopy (Veg = NC). Divide
this sum by the number of samples in this
group. Record this value as the average
stability for "Unprotected samples."
4. Averages should be calculated separately for
surface and subsurface samples.
Table 8. Data form and calculations example for soil surface samples.
Surface
LiHeIn
Dip
time
#
Pos
Veg
In
time
Dip
time
#
Line 2
In
time
Dip
time
#
Pos
Veg
In
time
Dip
time
#
Postime
Pos
Veg
7
NC
0:00
5:00
3
28
NC
0:45
5:45
3
6
G
1:30
6:30
5
24
G
2:15
7:15
6
14
5
0:15
5:15
5
35
5
1:00
6:00
4
12
NC
1:45
6:45
1
30
5
2:30
7:30
3
21
G
0:30
5:30
6
42
G
1:15
6:15
5
18
5
2:00
7:00
4
36
NC
2:45
7:45
1
Avg. Stability = Sum of Stability Rankings (i.e., #) / Total No. Samples Taken
Line
All samples
Protected samples
(Samples w/Veg = G, F, Sh, or T)
Unprotected samples
(Samples w/o Veg = NC)
Surface
Subsurface
Surface
Subsurface
Surface
Subsurface
1
4.3
5.0
3.0
2
3.3
4.5
1.0
Plot Avg.
5.8
4.75
2.0
28
Long -Term Methods: Soil stability test
Soil stability test basic
interpretation
Increases in stability of both surface and sub-
surface samples reflect increased soil erosion
resistance and resilience. Surface stability is corre-
lated with current erosion resistance, while subsur-
face stability is correlated with resistance following
soil disturbance. Sites with average values of 5.5 or
above generally are very resistant to erosion, partic-
ularly if there is little bare ground and there are few
large gaps. Maximum possible soil stability values
may be less than 6 for very coarse sandy soils. High
values usually reflect good hydrologic function.
This is because stable soils are less likely to disperse
and clog soil pores during rainstorms. High stabili-
ty values also are strongly correlated with soil biot-
ic integrity. Soil organisms make the "glue" that
holds soil particles together. In most ecosystems,
soil stability values decline first in areas without
cover (Veg = NC). In more highly degraded sys-
tems, Veg = Canopy values also decline.
Use these indicators together with the indicators
from the Line -point intercept and the Gap
Intercept to help determine whether observed
erosion changes are due to loss of cover, changes in
vegetation spatial distribution or reduced soil sta-
bility. For more information about how to interpret
these indicators, please see Chapter 17 in Volume
II.
Typical effect on each attribute of
an increase in the indicator value
Indicator
Soil and site
stability
Hydrologic
function
Biotic
integrity
All samples
+
*
+
Veg = Canopy
+
is
+
Veg = NC
+
*
+
* Usually positive, but can be negative for hydrophobic
(water-repellent) soils. Large increases in water repellency
(after a very hot fire) can negatively affect soil and site
stability by increasing the amount of runoff water avail-
able to erode soils downslope.
29
Long -Term Methods: Belt transect
Belt transect for measur-
ing perennial invasive
plants and woody species
The Belt transect provides a way to measure
the presence of invasive plants or woody seedlings.
Belt transects provide a good means of monitoring
brush or shrub encroachment. For seedlings, small
annuals and other species that are hard to see,
substitute the belt with a quadrat placed at regular
intervals along the line. See Measuring and
Monitoring Plant Populations (Elzinga et al. 2001)3.
Materials:
• PVC pipe with the center marked with a piece
of tape (Table 9)
• The same transect line that was used for
Line -point and Gap intercept methods
• Clipboard, Belt Transect Data Form (page 32)
and pencil(s)
Standard methods (rule set)
1. Determine size classes of plants.
Rules
1.1 Before walking the transect, determine if you
want to divide the plants into size classes
(Fig. 23).
1.2 Record the size classes on the data form
under "Size class A =," "Size class B ="
and "Size class C = ." For example, Size
class A = plants under 10 cm tall, Size class
B = plants between 10 cm and 1 in tall, and
Size class C = plants greater than 1 m tall.
1.3 You can combine size classes, but you can-
not create more size classes at a later date.
2. Determine the belt width.
Rules
2.1 Belt width can vary between 1 and 6 m
(3 and 20 ft) in width, depending upon
density and size of plants (Table 9).
2.2 Belt width always can be decreased, but
once a transect is measured it should not be
increased.
2.3 Use the same belt width for all transects
within a plot and for all plots within a site.
3. Begin at the "0" end of the line.
Figure 23. Determine size class.
Figure 24. Begin at transect's end.
Figure 25. Be sure to center PVC.
3Elzinga, C.L., D.W. Salzer, J.W. Willoughby and J.P. Gibbs. 2001. Monitoring Plant and Animal Populations, Blackwell Publishing. 366 pp.
30
4. Begin walking the transect.
Rules
4.1 Stand at the "0" end of the line and face
the other end (away from the plot's center)
(Fig. 24).
4.2 Hold the PVC pipe, so that its center is
directly over the tape (Fig. 25).
5. Count the plants.
Rules
5.1 Walk slowly along the transect and count
plants that are rooted under the PVC pipe
(Fig. 26).
5.2 Only record species that constitute less than
5% cover on the Line -point intercept or
species of management concern.
5.3 Record each individual plant with at least
half of the base under the PVC pipe.
5.4 Record the species code in the "Species"
column on the data form.
5.5 Make a tally mark in the column of the
appropriate size class as individuals are
encountered (Fig. 27).
5.6 If desired, each transect can be divided into
10-m (30-ft) segments, and plants can be
counted within each segment. You can use
a separate row on the data form for each 10
m (30 ft) segment.
6. Repeat for all transects.
Table 9. Suggested belt width based on plant
density (Tazik et al. 1992)4.
Estimated individuals
of a given species per Suggested
6x100 m plot belt width
Long -Term Methods: Belt transect
Figure 26. Record all shrubs with at least
half of base under PVC.
Figure 27. Record all shrubs encountered
by size class.
Rinaria"
<100
6 m (20 ft) the belt's outer edge
100-200
4 In (12 ft)
200-400
2 m (6 ft)
>400
1 m (3 ft)
in Belt transacts on the
osses'channel) and on
vegetation survey lines
13). For the channel vege-
edge of the green line as
4'Fazik, D. J., S.D. Warren, V.E. Diersing, R. B. Shaw, R. J. Brozka, C. E Bagley, and W. R. Whitworth. 1992. U.S. Army Land
Condition -Trend Analysis (LCTA) Plot Inventory Field Methods. USACERL Technical Report N-92/03. 62 pp.
31
Belt Transect Data Form
Monitoring plot: Date:
Reader: Recorder:
Transect area* = ha = meters X meters/10,000
(line length) (belt width)
Transect area** = ho = ft x ft x (0.0000093)
Size class A = Size class B = Size class C =
Density* = number of individuals per hectare (this indicator doesn't need to be calculated in the field).
Line: Direction:
Size class
kspcies A (tally marks) Total Density B (tally marks) Total Density I C (tally marks) I Total I Density
Size class
®®®®®®®®®®
Example: *50 m x 2 m = 100 square meters )m2). There are 10,000 m2 in 1 hectare, so 100 m2/)10,000 m2 per 1 ha) = 0.01 ha. Density for 15
plants in a 100 m2 belt = 15/0.01 ho = 1500 plants/ha.
**150 Ft x 6 ft = 900 0. 1 ft2 = 0.0000093 ha, so 900 ft2 x 0.0000093ha/ft2 = 0.008ho. Density for 15 plants in a 900 Ft2 belt = 15/0.008 =
1875 plants/ho.
32
Long -Term Methods: Belt transect
Belt transect indicator Belt transect basic
calculations interpretation
1. Calculate the density of invasive plants and
woody seedlings.
Rules
1.1 Count the tally marks for each species and
size class.
1.2 Calculate the transect area: multiply the
length of the transect by the belt width.
Convert this to hectares:
Square meters to hectares -
Divide this total by 10,000 to get the
transect area in hectares.
Square feet to hectares -
Divide this total by 107,639 to get
the transect area in hectares.
1.3 Divide each species total by the transect
area to get the species density. Repeat
this for each species and size class. To con-
vert plants/hectares to plants/acre, divide
plants/hectare by 2.5.
Table 10. Sample data form and calculations.
Interpreting Belt transect data is site -specific. In
a riparian area, woody species may be a positive
indicator of biotic integrity. In native grassland, the
presence of woody species could be an early warn-
ing indicator of degradation. In some cases, it is
important to have size as well as density informa-
tion. For example, the probability of shrub mortali-
ty during fire declines with increases in shrub size.
Use these indicators, together with indicators
from the Line -point intercept and Gap inter-
cept methods to monitor a site's biotic integrity
(resistance to invasive species or to changes in
community structure) and hydrologic function. For
more information about how to interpret these
indicators, please see Volume Il, Chapter 17.
Transect area* = 0.o3 ha = 50 meters X 6 meters/10,000
(line length)
(belt width)
Size class A o <10 cm
Size class B = 10 cm to 1 m Size cuss C = >1m
Line: 1
Direction: 1200
Size class
Density
Density
Species
A (tally marks)
Total
(plants/ha)
B (tally marks)
Total
(plants/ha)
C (tally marks)
Total
Density
FKGL
I I 11
4
133**
14-ff I
6
200***
I
1
35.3
*50 m x 6 m = 300 m2. There are 10,000 m2 in I hectare, so 300 m2 _ (10,000 m2 per 1 hectare) = 0.03 hectare.
**4 plants _ 0.03 hectare = 133 plants/hectare; 133 plants/hectare _ 2.5 = 53 plants/acre.
***6 plants - 0.03 hectare = 200 plants/hectare; 200 plants/hectare _ 2.5 = 80 plants/acre.
33
Rest Phase
Approximately five percent (5%) of the total area available for grazing shall be rested each
grazing season. This 5% (approximately 800 acres) shall be in one contiguous block and shall
be selected annually in consultation with the Lessor. Adjustments to animal units will be based
on the range type(s) within the rested area. The parties may be written agreement on an annual
basis choose instead to reduce grazing in any one pasture by 5% of the total available animal
units or approximately 185 AU.
Dalmatian Toadflax
Provide a plan to control the spread of Dalmatian toadflax. This can include the use of sheep
and goats, grazing intensity and timing, and other control efforts. If necessary, please provide a
detailed budget (materials and labor) for the control effort. Also include the monitoring
technique you will use to document control.
AUM Defined
For the purpose of this RFP an animal unit is defined as:
1. A cow and unweaned calf pair shall constitute one (1) animal unit.
2. A mature bull shall constitute one and one half (1.5) animal units.
3. A yearling shall constitute one (1) animal unit.
4. A horse shall constitute one and one-half (1.5) animal units
5. Five (5) sheep shall constitute one (1) animal unit.
6. A bison cow constitutes one (1) animal unit
7. A bison bull constitutes one and one-half (1.5) animal units.
Requested Proposal
Using the conditions outlined above, propose a detailed grazing rotation and timing plan in
response to the RFP. This plan shall include initial stocking rates, anticipated grazing dates
(start and end), pasture rotations, rest phase option and location, and placement of any
temporary fencing. Also, as stated above, if pastures are combined or divided, a detailed
explanation for this action is required. This must include an analysis of water availability in
terms of distribution of water sources as well as adequate quantities of water. The proposal
shall also include a description of how Soapstone Prairie Natural Area will be incorporated into
your overall ranching operation.
Other Conditions
Describe what resources you have available to meet the conditions below:
1. Applicants submitting proposals must have extensive experience in managing seasonal
livestock grazing operations of at least 400 animal units. Please provide a description of
your experience.
ShortmTerm Monitoringi
Why bother? The long-term monitoring meth-
ods described previously document progress toward
long-term goals. Short-term monitoring is essential
to adjust management to ensure that the long-term
goals will be met. Short-term monitoring should be
designed to show how your management plan is
affecting residual plant cover. Plant cover is a good
short-term indicator of the plant's ability to recover
following grazing and how well the site
is protected from erosion. The sizes of the gaps
between plant canopies are a good indicator of
susceptibility to erosion and weed invasion.
Where should I monitor?
At your long-term monitoring locations.
Additional short-term monitoring sites should be
located in areas that are sensitive to management.
What should I monitor?
See the data forms on pages 35 and 36 and Table
11 below. It is not necessary to monitor everything
or to complete short-term monitoring quantitative -
Table 11. Short-term monitoring guidelines.
ly. Because short-term monitoring is used to adjust
management rather than document trends, the
data are less likely to be used by others. Use this
form to organize and help you remember what you
see on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.
How often should I monitor?
Use Table 11 as a guide. Sensitive areas should
be checked more often, especially during drought
years. Frequent checks may not be possible in more
remote areas.
Instructions:
• Use one data form for each location. This will
allow you to see changes over time. Photos
can be taped to the back of each sheet.
• See instructions at the bottom of data forms on
the following pages.
• It is not necessary to fill in all columns.
Determine the most important attributes and
monitor these consistently.
Management
How Often?
What?
High -intensity grazing
Daily
Stocking rates by animal and class
Season -long grazing
Weekly
Dates of use
Year -long grazing
Monthly
Cover and canopy gap sizes
Height of key species
Fire
After fire, after greenup
Cover
and before grazing
Canopy gap sizes
Off -road vehicle use
After significant events
Types and approximate vehicle numbers
(e.g., holiday weekends);
Dates of use
more often when wet
Number of tracks
Evidence of compaction
Shhort-term grazing monitoring adapted from Level II monitoring in C.D. Allison, T.T. Baker, J.C. Boren, B.D. Wright
and A. Fernald. 2001. Monitoring Rangelands in New Mexico: Range, Riparian, Erosion, Water Quality and Wildlife. Range
Improvement Task Force, Agricultural Experiment Station, Cooperative Extension Service, New Mexico State University,
College of Agriculture and Home Economics, Report 53. 60 pp.
34
Short -Term Monitoring Data Form (Annual Use Record) for Grazing Management
(Use one form for each monitoring location —you will not necessarily use all columns.)
Pasture:
Precipitation (cm or in):
Location:
LenHth of pace (if nave tra"voct _%
Date
Number
and class of
livestock
Livestock
Date in
Date
out.
Photo
(Y or N),
(date Sr
I time)
Average
grazed
plant
height'
(cm/in)
Average
ungrazed
plant
heightr
(cm/in)
Grazed %
heightz or
relative
use score3
(circle one)
Production
score4
0% cover
Check one
❑ visual
estimate
0 pace
transects•6
% steps
in
"boot'
gaps6.7
Remarks
(Include any other
management
information and
observations on weeds,
wildlife use, fires, etc.)
-,Average plant height. Measure at least 10 randomly selected plants. Measure the tallest height of the plant (or longest leaf/seedhead). Be sure to measure same secies for
grazed and ungrazed pastures. p
2Grazed % height. Divide "Average grazed plant height" by "Average ungrazed plant height"(two previous columns) and multiply by 100.
;Relative use score. 1. None -Slight (no visible use of key forage species). 2. Light (only preferred areas and key forage species grazed). 3. Moderate (key areas grazed uni-
formly, especially key species). 4. Heavy (key species closely grazed and low forage value plants moderately grazed). 5. Severe (pasture appears mowed, including low -value
species). If temporary exclosures are used to estimate utilization, be sure to mark control plots when the exclosures are installed.
41'roduction score. 1. Extreme Drought (no growth this year). 2. Below Average. 3. Average. 4. Above Average. 5. Extremely High (maximum potential).
5% cover. Number of paces out of 100 for which tip of boot contacts plant canopy, plant base or plant litter (higher cover is better).
611int. To make the pace transect and boot gap method easy, carry two clicker counters. Count your paces (100) out loud. In one hand, click the number of paces with
No cover (#4). In the other hand, click the number of paces in boot gaps (#5).
7% steps in "boot' gaps. Number of paces out of 100 for which boot lands completely within a bare space (does not touch a plant when boot is on the ground). Record
boot length here cm (in).
P Short -Term Monitoring Data Form (Annual Use Record) for Recreation and Off -Road Vehicle Management
(Use one form for each monitoring location —you will not necessarily use all columns.)
Management unit (ranch or allotment):
Precipitation (cm or in):
Location:
Length of pace (if pace transect used:) cm (in)
Date
Vehicle type
and number
Use
dates
Soil
condition
during
use
(wet/dry)
Photo
(Y or N)
(date &
time)
No. of vehicle
tracks/100 paces
cover
Check one
0 visual
estimate
71 pace
transectl•3
% steps
in "boot'
gaps2.3
Evidence
of
compaction?
Remarks
(Include any other
management
information and
observations on weeds,
wildlife use, fires, etc.)
1% cover. Number of paces out of 100 for which tip of boot contacts plant canopy, plant base or plant litter (higher cover is better).
2% steps in "boot' gaps. Number of paces out of 100 for which boot lands completely within a bare space (does not touch a plant when boot is on the ground).
Record boot length here cm (in).
311int. To make the pace transect and boot gap method easy, carry two clicker counters. Count your paces (100) out loud. In one hand, click the number of paces with ground
cover (#1). In the other hand, click the number of paces in boot gaps (#2).
No Text
CiaedFon CNlli-ns
Soapstone Prairie Natural Area
M
W E
s
'
- .'fit
ts.y��
'�' �...
`'�� y v
•,t - y;;�
-
. �
r
S x,
t
a
•. S
♦.:.L w,1r� xsy r V
•y�< ytL, �r
f t( •�,�_.
.. �r
ti
WestE'mijo--'-'.,. ,.._-.... East Canyon
.,..,
i
HQ
01
1—
— --- --- -
-- -'---�_�
z'
L&R
�
r;
r •
ri
••'
R
i
i
l
f
., �. .. ,.
vni :.�,.:,.....�.�..�.�:.+,•
1
;Ii
111 140CryQ
f
Sw.OndifY lOid
LY25�
G�U
TYiYy e0i11
`
!ljjpp .lffz
's sm let
"r d 41
1. ��__
RiJMr 4�1Vi1
R
Miles >egie1 24 WO
0 0.3 0.6 L2
2. The lessee or an employee of the lessee must serve as the ranch manager and occupy the
house provided at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. Occupation must be for the entire
term of the lease. Utilities will be paid by lessee. Please provide the name of the
occupant and their responsibilities related to the grazing lease.
3. The ranch manager is responsible for site security that includes closing gates, reporting
trespass or other violations to the City of Fort Collins, Natural Areas Program — Land
Manager, and in certain instances, the Larimer County Sheriff.
The lessee or employee of the lessee will participate in 6 public tours each year. The
lessee's participation will include describing ranching operations on Soapstone Prairie
Natural Area as well as the history of ranching in the area. Please provide the name(s)
of the person participating in the public tours and their knowledge of ranching
operations in the area.
5. Lessee is responsible for maintenance of all boundary and interior fences, gates, and all
aspects of livestock watering facilities including but not limited to windmills, buried
water pipe, pumps, and stock tanks. This includes filling tanks prior to grazing as well
as draining the tanks and water delivery systems in the fall. Describe your experience in
performing these tasks in general and specific to Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. Also
propose a budget for anticipated expenses that includes a description of the financial
responsibility of each party.
6. Lessee is responsible for the construction and maintenance of any temporary fence
necessary to exclude cattle from an area or to facilitate rotational grazing. This does not
include the construction of grazing exclosure used for monitoring purposes.
7. Lessee is responsible for maintaining a daily log of all weather events to include
precipitation amounts, and daily high and low temperature.
Lessee is responsible for recording number of animal units per day in each pasture. This
includes the date entered and removed from the pasture.
9. Lessee is to identify any necessary ranch improvements along with a proposal to
accomplish the improvement. This will include an estimate for material and labor as
well as who will be responsible for project management. Also propose a budget
describing the financial responsibility of each party.
10. All cattle moved into Colorado from any other state or country must strictly adhere to all
Colorado Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Agriculture regulations for
animal movement into and within Colorado. Respondent must identify how they will
follow all pertinent regulations.
11. Lessee is responsible for short term monitoring program as outlined in Herrick etal.
2005. Monitoring manual for grassland, shrubland, and savanna ecosystems. Vol 1.
USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range. Please provide the name of the person
responsible for this activity.
Selection Criteria
1. The number of ranching or farming acres within Colorado owned by the respondent,
listed by county, or if a grazing association, the number of acres of each association
member listed by county. (1-15)
2. Adequate resources to meet the terms of the lease (1-15).
3. Ability to adhere to an adaptive grazing management program. Can you be flexible in
grazing dates, and stocking rates with some advanced notice? Are there other pastures
that you can take cattle to if necessary? (1-20)
4. Is the response innovative in developing grazing rotations, Dalmatian toadflax control,
ranch improvements etc. (1-20)
5. Respondent's familiarity with Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. (1-15)
6. Proposed compensation ($/AUM) to the City of Fort Collins. (1-15)
Additional Information
• Attachment A. Soapstone Prairie Natural Area Map
-pasture areas
-water sources
-house and ranch buildings
-fences and gates
• Attachment B. Herrick etal. 2005. Monitoring Manual for Grassland,
Shrubland, and Savanna Ecosystems. Vol 1. USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental
Range. The following additional information is available on the web at:
http://usda-ars.nmsu.edu/JER/Monit Assess/monitoring main.php