APPENDIX F 

RECLAMATION PLAN 
KERN RIVER GAS TRANSMISSION COMPANY 

Reclamation Plan 

Docket No. CP10-XX 

Kern River Gas Transmission 

Apex Expansion Project 

November 2009 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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Table of Contents 

1. Introduction...........................................................................................................1-1

2. Plan Purpose.........................................................................................................2-1

3. Plan Goals and Objectives...................................................................................3-1

4. Project Description...............................................................................................4-1

5. Reclamation Schedule..........................................................................................5-1

6. Reclamation Process............................................................................................6-1

6.1 Reclamation Treatments.........................................................................................6-1

6.2 Reclamation Treatments for the Wasatch Loop Closure ........................................6-1

6.2.1 Clearing, Grading, and Topsoil Removal................................................................6-2

6.2.2 Right-of-Way Restoration........................................................................................6-4

6.2.3 Revegetation...........................................................................................................6-6

6.3 Reclamation Treatment for Steep Slopes and Erodible Soils...............................6-16

6.3.1 Reclamation Procedures ......................................................................................6-17

6.4 Reclamation Treatment for Stream/Wash/Wetland Crossings and Riparian 

Areas ....................................................................................................................6-19

6.5 Reclamation for Visually Sensitive Areas .............................................................6-21

6.6 Reclamation Treatment for Above Ground Facilities ............................................6-21

7. Post-Construction Monitoring and Maintenance...............................................7-1

7.1 Apex Expansion Project Monitoring and Maintenance ...........................................7-1

7.1.1 Revegetation Performance Criteria.........................................................................7-2

7.1.2 Remedial Action and Maintenance .........................................................................7-2

7.2 Reporting ................................................................................................................7-3

8. Off-Highway Vehicle Control ...............................................................................8-1

9. References.............................................................................................................9-1

Appendix A Typical Drawings ........................................................................................... A-1
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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List of Tables 

Table 6-1 Water Bars Spacing Guidelines .........................................................................6-6

Table 6-2 Mixture UT–1....................................................................................................6-10

Table 6-3 Mixture UT–2....................................................................................................6-10

Table 6-4 Mixture UT–3....................................................................................................6-11

Table 6-5 Mixture UT–3A..................................................................................................6-11

Table 6-6 Mixture UT–4....................................................................................................6-14

List of Figures 

Figure 4-1 Wasatch Loop Pipeline Overview.......................................................................4-3

Figure 4-2 Typical Pipeline Construction Sequence............................................................4-5

Figure 6-1 Typical Great Basin Sagebrush Community within the Project Corridor ............6-9

Figure 6-2 Typical Riparian and Canyon Woodland Community within Project Area..........6-9

Figure 6-3 Typical Mountain Mahogany – Oak Scrub Community ....................................6-12

Figure 6-4 Douglas Fir Community within the Project Corridor..........................................6-13
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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List of Acronyms 

ac acres 

ATWS Additional Temporary Work Space 

BLM Bureau of Land Management 

Dth/d Dekatherms per day 

EI Environmental Inspector 

FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 

ft feet/foot 

hp horsepower 

ISO International Organization for Standardization 

lbs pounds 

MP Milepost 

NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service 

OHV Off-highway Vehicle 

PLS Pure Live Seed 

ROWROWs Right(s)-of-Way 

UDWR Utah Division of Wildlife Resources 

USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers 

USDA United States Department of Agriculture 

USFS United States Forest Service 

UWCNF Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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1. INTRODUCTION 

This Reclamation Plan has been prepared by the Kern River Gas Transmission 

Company (Kern River) for the proposed Apex Expansion Project (Project). 

Kern River Gas Transmission Company (Kern River) is proposing to construct, own and 

operate facilities necessary to expand its existing interstate pipeline system, which extends from 

southwestern Wyoming to southern California. The expansion, referred to as the “Apex 

Expansion Project” (Project), will provide an additional 266,000 dekatherms per day (Dth/d) of 

incremental firm transportation service from existing receipt points in southwestern Wyoming to 

existing delivery points in southern Nevada. This incremental capacity will increase Kern 

River’s summer design capacity to 2,142,126 Dth/d. The increased capacity will serve new and 

existing electric generation facilities near Las Vegas, Nevada. The facilities required to provide 

this service include approximately 28.01 miles1 of 36-inch-diameter pipeline in an unlooped 

section of Kern River’s pipeline system through the Wasatch Mountains in northern Utah 

(Wasatch Loop), 78,000 horsepower (ISO hp) of additional compression at three existing 

compressor stations and one new compressor station. In order to maximize operational 

efficiency under the expansion design conditions, three existing boost compressors will be 

restaged and a fourth will be replaced. No new meter station facilities are required. Other 

aboveground facilities will include new mainline block valves, pig launchers/receivers and a 

branch connection to provide an existing meter facility with a redundant supply from the 

Wasatch Loop pipeline. There also will be non-jurisdictional facilities associated with this 

Project, which are discussed in Section 1.2. Specifically, the Project includes the following: 

■ Wasatch Loop (Morgan, Davis and Salt Lake Counties, Utah). Approximately 28.01 

miles of 36-inch diameter pipeline, looping the existing Kern River mainline; 

■ Coyote Creek Compressor Station (Uinta County, Wyoming). An additional 16,000 hp 

compressor unit at Kern River’s existing Coyote Creek compressor station and the restaging 

of the existing boost compressor; 

■ Elberta Compressor Station (Utah County, Utah). An additional 16,000 hp compressor 

unit at Kern River’s existing Elberta compressor station and the restaging of the existing 

boost compressor; 

■ Fillmore Compressor Station (Millard County, Utah). Replacement of a boost 

compressor at Kern River’s existing Fillmore compressor station; 

 

1

 The horizontal survey length of the proposed Wasatch Loop alignment is 28.01 miles. All documentation supporting this 

application (alignment sheets, feature tables, drawings and other related information) is based upon that alignment length and 

the associated milepost references. Exhibits G and G-II reflect a pipeline length of 28.7 miles, which includes an additional 0.69 

miles of pipeline that will be required to traverse dramatic elevation changes along that alignment. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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■ Milford Compressor Station (Beaver County, Utah). A new single-unit 30,000 hp 

compressor station; and 

■ Dry Lake Compressor Station (Clark County, Nevada). An additional 16,000 hp 

compressor unit at Kern River’s existing Dry Lake compressor station and the restaging of 

the existing boost compressor. 

Construction is scheduled to begin in October 2010 with facilities placed in-service by 

November 1, 2011. Kern River proposes to begin construction at the Milford and Dry Lake 

compressor stations, on some of the lower-elevation portions of the pipeline route (MP 25.50 to 

MP 28.01), and the crossing of East Canyon Creek (MP 5.28) in late fall/early winter 2010. The 

remainder of the Project will be constructed during the 2011 construction season. Late 2010 

construction is proposed for the lower-elevation portions of the Wasatch Loop and the crossing 

of East Canyon Creek to coincide with periods of lowest water levels. The Milford and Dry Lake 

compressor station locations are not subject to winter climate conditions that would affect a 

construction stoppage. Kern River has prepared a detailed Winter Construction Plan for any 

portions of the Wasatch Loop and compressor stations that are planned for construction during 

winter months. Kern River expects to complete construction of the Project before the onset of 

winter 2011. 

Development of the Reclamation Plan included consultation with the United States 

Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), United 

States Forest Service (USFS) Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest (UWCNF) Ranger District, 

United States Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources 

(UDWR) to address those portions of the Project that pass through their respective jurisdictions. 

This Reclamation Plan has been developed to address site-specific conditions found 

along the Wasatch Loop and addresses all pipeline-related disturbance, as described in 

Resource Report No. 1, General Project Description (Exhibit F-1). This Reclamation Plan

incorporates standard erosion, sediment control and restoration procedures or criteria that have 

been proven to be effective and are in widespread use by the natural gas pipeline industry. In 

addition, this Reclamation Plan is derived from previously permitted reclamation plans prepared 

and implemented for the original construction of the Kern River pipeline system in 1991 and as 

modified and implemented during the 2003 Kern River Expansion Project. This Reclamation 

Plan builds on specific measures that were proposed and successfully implemented by Kern 

River during the construction of their 2003 Expansion Project. In addition, Kern River has 

incorporated recent technical standards, experience and other information into this Reclamation 

Plan, obtained through consultation with the NRCS, USFS, BLM, and UDWR. This Reclamation
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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Plan also incorporates FERC’s Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, and Maintenance Plan 

(the FERC Plan) and Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures (the 

FERC Procedures) as included in Appendix 7B in Resource Report No. 7. Kern River has also 

incorporated restoration procedures and referenced other environmental information contained 

in Kern River’s Environmental Report and supporting materials filed with the FERC under 

Docket No. CP09-07 for the Project. 

Final site-specific plans for sensitive visual resource areas may be developed as part of 

the post-certificate final Implementation Plan(s) as required before construction. Kern River is in 

the process of developing a Visual Resources Assessment Plan for the proposed Project, in 

consultation with the USFS and BLM. This Visual Resources Assessment Plan will include the 

identification of visually sensitive areas or scenic resources that may be visually impacted by the 

proposed Project, and measures to be implemented to avoid, minimize, or mitigate for visual 

impacts during reclamation activities at selected locations. This Reclamation Plan will be 

supplemented with the additional site-specific visual mitigation treatment plans when completed 

in 2010. These visual resources mitigation plans may also include additional landowner or 

other land management agency requirements as well as any special conditions or 

recommendations of the FERC staff as incorporated into the Final Environmental Impact 

Statement.
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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2. PLAN PURPOSE 

The purpose of this Reclamation Plan is to describe and prescribe methods for topsoil 

handling, erosion and sediment control, reclamation monitoring, clean-up, and restoration of 

habitats. This Reclamation Plan is applicable to the pipeline construction right-of-way (ROW), 

areas of additional temporary work space (ATWS) along the ROW, staging areas, pipe yards, 

existing temporary access roads where modifications are necessary and compressor stations. 

Minor modifications to this Reclamation Plan may be approved by the Environmental Inspector 

(EI) when site-specific conditions warrant. For example, minor modifications may include but 

are not limited to permitted procedures such as the placement or type of mulch or erosion and 

sediment control structures at specific locations. Minor modifications may also include 

adjustments of ROW or work space configuration provided that the areas have been surveyed 

and cleared for biological and cultural resources, existing landowner concurrence is obtained 

and no new landowners are affected. Any major modifications to this Reclamation Plan, due to 

unforeseen conditions will be submitted to the FERC, USFS and BLM as appropriate for 

approval prior to implementing such modifications. For example, major modifications may 

include but are not limited to non-permitted route variations or necessary design changes that 

were not addressed in the original FERC certificate and UWCNF Plan Amendment, or further 

additional modifications required to the Kern River Reclamation Plan and Procedures based on 

actual site conditions encountered at the time of construction. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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 3. PLAN GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 

Kern River is committed to the restoration of Project-related impacts on lands affected 

by the Project. As such, Kern River has developed short-term (0 to 1 year) and long-term (2 to 

3 year) reclamation goals for Project-related construction impacts. At a minimum, Kern River’s 

short-term goals include: 

■ reestablishing pre-construction contours and hydrologic patterns; 

■ minimization of on-site erosion; 

■ minimization of off-site sedimentation; 

■ re-establishment of the pre-construction vegetative communities, as appropriate; 

■ where possible, replacement and/or enhancement to wildlife habitats crossed; and 

■ establishment of post-construction vegetative monitoring stations. 

Kern River’s long-term goals include: 

■ soil stabilization; 

■ establishment of a sustainable vegetative cover; 

■ annual post-construction restoration monitoring for a minimum of three years; 

■ maintenance and repair of permanent erosion and sediment controls; 

■ a commitment to the restoration and protection of water resources; and 

■ a return to pre-existing land uses to the extent practical and consistent with Kern River’s 

operations and monitoring needs. 

At a minimum, Kern River will comply with the FERC Plan and the FERC Procedures as 

specifically modified for this Project and other applicable conditions as specified by the land 

management agencies. Kern River will meet its reclamation goals through implementation of 

this Reclamation Plan. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 

Kern River selected its proposed route to follow its existing pipeline and other pipeline 

infrastructure, including the existing Questar pipeline, and the proposed UNEV pipeline (to be 

constructed in late 2009) where practical for 70% of its length. For the balance of the route, 

localized variations were incorporated to avoid or minimize crossing areas of more severe 

terrain and development which has occurred since the original Kern River mainline was 

constructed in 1991. Kern River plans to use a typical temporary construction ROW of 100 feet 

(ft) for installation of the 36-inch diameter pipe. Typically, the new pipeline loop will be offset 

35-ft from the existing pipeline and will use portions of the existing ROW as construction 

workspace to minimize new disturbance where possible. Construction will also require ATWS, 

staging areas, temporary pipe yards and access to the construction ROW. Kern River plans to 

use primarily existing public and private access roads. There is only one new temporary access 

road identified, in the vicinity of Interstate 215 and Redwood Road (MP 27.0), which will be 

removed and restored to pre-existing conditions following construction. Some of the existing 

access roads will require grading and maintenance to safely accommodate vehicles and 

equipment. 

Additional natural gas-fired turbine-driven centrifugal compressor units will be installed at 

the existing Coyote Creek, Elberta and Dry Lake compressor stations. Existing compressors at 

the Coyote Creek, Elberta and Dry Lake compressor stations will also be restaged (three 

compressor restages total) to accommodate the new units and improve operational efficiency. 

The boost compressor at the Fillmore compressor station will be replaced with a higher 

efficiency unit. In addition, a new compressor station will be constructed near Milford, Utah, on 

an approximately 33.16-acre site to include the installation of one new turbine/compressor unit. 

Two new mainline valves will be installed at locations along the proposed Wasatch Loop 

and two new mainline valves will be installed at the Milford compressor station. The mainline 

valves will be within the permanent ROW for the Wasatch Loop and within the proposed fence 

line for the Milford compressor station. 

The Project is located within three-major vegetation types (Albee et al. 1988), these 

include: Great Basin Sagebrush; Mountain Mahogany – Oak Scrub and Douglas Fir Forest. 

These vegetation types generally refer to the species or various combinations of species which 

have similar stature, morphology and appearance that dominate or appear to dominate 

(Stoddart 1975) the landscape. Environmental elements, such as climate, altitude, soils, 

hydrology, geology, wildlife and land use practices all influence these types. Within each of 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

Page 4-2

these major-vegetative sub-divisions, isolated areas which support improved pastureland, 

annual crop production, wet meadow/emergent habitats, or riparian and canyon woodlands 

may also be included. 

Kern River also plans to construct two mainline valves along the Wasatch Loop at MP 

7.12 and MP 24.55, remove an existing launcher barrel at MP 28.01 and re-install that launcher 

barrel at MP 0.00. Figure 4-1 provides a general overview of the location of the proposed 

Wasatch Loop and compressor stations along the existing Kern River pipeline system. The 

proposed Project facilities are depicted on the Preliminary Alignment Sheets and other maps 

and drawings in the Mapping Supplement (Volume 3) of the Environmental Report in Exhibit F-1 

of Kern River’s Application to the FERC. 

Typical stages of pipeline construction for the Project will include, in chronological order: 

■ Surveying – the outside limits of the construction workspace will be staked and with all 

activities restricted, to the extent practicable, within a typical 100-ft-wide construction ROW 

that typically overlaps the existing Kern River ROW. In addition, all laydown yards, 

pipeyards, and ATWS location limits will also be staked. 

■ Clearing and grading – the construction corridor will be cleared of trees, rocks, brush and 

logs, and graded where necessary to provide a safe working surface. 

■ Trenching – excavation of the pipeline trench will be accomplished with a rotary trenching 

machine, a track-mounted backhoe, or similar equipment. Blasting will be used as 

necessary in areas where resistant rock substrates are found at depths that restrict using 

conventional excavation or trenching methods. 

■ Stringing – construction of pipeline segments (strings), including bending, welding and 

joint-coating. 

■ Lowering-in – select fill is placed in trenchline to cushion the pipe, pipeline segments are 

placed in the trench and connected with girth welds at tie-in points. 

■ Hydrostatic testing – strength and leak testing are conducted on the pipeline using 

standard hydrostatic test procedures and a specific test plan. 

■ Backfilling – excavated spoils are replaced in the ditch followed by topsoil replacement, 

and the site is returned to approximate natural contours. 

■ Clean-up and restoration – mats debris and all construction equipment are removed from 

the construction corridor. Bulldozers, graders and backhoes may be used to return the 

workspace to approximate natural contours. 

A schematic depiction of the pipeline construction stages are shown in Figure 4-2. 
SOURCE: Mojave-Kern River-El Dorado Natural Gas Pipeline Projects, Final Environmental Impact Report/Statement, Volume 1, Chambers Group, December, 1987

Figure 1.4-1 Typical Pipeline Construction Sequence

02:002816_KK07_03-B2759\Fig1.4-1.CDR-4/9/09-GRA

Right-of-Way

Acquisition

and Survey

Fencing

Stringing

As-Built

Footage

X-ray and

Weld Repair

Coating Field

and Factory Welds

Inspection (Jeeping)

and Repair of Coating

Lowering In 

and Tie-Ins

As-Built

Survey

Pad and

Backfill

Test and

Final Tie-In

Replace Topsoil

and Revegetate

Bending

Line Up, Stringer Bead, and Hot Pass Fill and Cap Weld

Centerline Survey

of Ditch

Ditching

(Rock-Free)

Topsoil 

Removal

and Windrowing

Ditching

(Rock)

Padding

Ditching Bottom

SpoilTopsoil

Figure 4-1 Typical Pipeline Construction Sequence
02:002816.KK07.03-Kern River RR10-B2759\Fig1.1-2.cdr - 7/9/09 

Figure 1.1-2 Wasatch Loop Pipeline Overview

Figure 4-2 Wasatch Loop Pipeline Overview
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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5. RECLAMATION SCHEDULE 

Construction is scheduled to begin in October 2010 with facilities placed in-service by 

November 1, 2011. Kern River proposes to begin construction at the Fillmore, Milford and Dry 

Lake compressor stations, on some of the lower-elevation portions of the pipeline route (MP 

25.50 to MP 28.01), and the crossing of East Canyon Creek (MP 5.28) in late fall/early winter 

2010. In addition, Kern River proposes to prepare two laydown yards and install equipment 

bridges at two creeks. The remainder of the Project will be constructed during the 2011 

construction season. Kern River expects to complete construction of the Project before the onset of winter 2011. 

Late 2010 construction is proposed for the lower-elevation portions of the pipeline route 

and the crossing of East Canyon Creek to coincide with periods of lowest water levels. The 

Milford and Dry Lake compressor station locations are not subject to winter climate conditions 

that would affect a construction stoppage. Kern River has prepared a detailed Winter 

Construction Plan for any portions of the pipeline route that are planned for construction during 

winter months. 

This schedule includes clearing, grading, topsoil removal, installation of temporary 

erosion control structures, pipe installation, cleanup, finish grading, installation of permanent 

erosion control structures and re-seeding. Kern River’s objective is to complete the reclamation 

work before the on-set of adverse winter weather and to take advantage of the optimal periods 

for dormant seeding. It is anticipated that most of the seeding will be done in October, which is 

within the optimal period for dormant seeding in most of Utah. This schedule provides the 

advantage of having the basic restoration in place that allows for optimal seed germination 

before the spring 2012 runoff periods and avoids entry under wet conditions unless remedial 

work is needed. Kern River anticipates that any additional plantings of woody materials for 

visual and habitat restoration primarily will be done in the spring of 2012. Reclamation activities 

that include clean-up, finish grading and installation of permanent erosion controls will be 

performed in advance of dormant seeding and will follow the progress of construction. Except 

for tie-in locations to complete road or railroad crossings, stream crossings, valve sites, or other 

similar sites, construction will proceed along the pipeline in one continuous operation. 

Construction at any single point along the pipeline, from initial clearing and grading to backfilling 

and finish grading, including installation of temporary and permanent erosion control measures 

or structures, is expected to last from 6 to 10 weeks. The entire construction process will be 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

Page 5-2

coordinated to minimize the total time in which a tract of land is disturbed and therefore exposed 

to erosion and precluded temporarily from normal use. 

In addition, Kern River will complete a Stormwater Pollution and Prevention Plan

(SWPPP) which identify the best management practices for erosion and sediment control and 

Project-specific Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures (Procedures) 

for construction and restoration of perennial and intermittent stream and wetland crossings. 

These Procedures are found in Resource Report 7, Volume 2 – Appendix 7B and Resource 

Report 2, Volume 2 – Appendix 2B, respectively. 

Final seedbed preparation, as required, and seeding and planting are planned for 

September and October of the 2011 construction period and will coincide with the optimal 

periods for dormant seeding/planting. In addition, any treatment of designated locations of 

noxious weeds will be treated prior to construction and prior to reclamation in accordance with 

the Noxious Weed Control Plan (submitted as Appendix 7C of Resource Report 7). Seeding will 

be completed, along with other erosion control, by the on-set of winter conditions. It is 

anticipated that additional plantings for enhanced visual and habitat restoration will be 

completed during the spring of 2012. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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6. RECLAMATION PROCESS 

The intent of reclamation is to restore disturbed areas to pre-existing land use, to 

minimize and mitigate for construction impacts and to reclaim all lands disturbed by construction 

so they are visually and functionally compatible with the adjacent landscape, to the extent 

practicable, while meeting operational needs. The following sections describe the sequential 

steps for reclaiming Project-related disturbances. 

6.1 RECLAMATION TREATMENTS 

The basis for the development of general reclamation treatments and the selection of 

site-specific techniques follows previously developed reclamation plans for the Kern River 2003 

Expansion Project. This Reclamation Plan incorporates industry-accepted successful 

revegetation and reclamation treatments for the Intermountain region, as well as site-specific 

techniques/treatments for problematic or highly sensitive areas. Although the 2003 Kern River 

Expansion Project did not cross the Wasatch Mountains, the experiences gained from 

implementation and long-term monitoring of the 2003 Kern River Expansion Project, including 

portions of Morgan, Salt Lake and Beaver counties in Utah, have direct applicability for the 

reclamation effort associated with the Project. Specific problematic areas that are addressed in 

this Reclamation Plan include areas with steep slopes, erodible soils, wash crossings, offhighway vehicle (OHV) access, sensitive plant habitats and visually-sensitive locations. 

For the development of standardized revegetation and reclamation treatments, as well 

as for site-specific mitigation for more critical areas, Kern River used and adopted the 

monitoring protocols, restoration performance standards and data collected from the 

reclamation monitoring effort developed and implemented for the 2003 Kern River Expansion 

Project where appropriate. 

The original reclamation treatments and site-specific measures were updated based on 

input and comments received to-date from other local experts and appropriate federal, state and 

local agencies and Kern River’s experience during the 2003 Kern River Expansion Project 

construction and are based on proven and accepted reclamation practices. 

6.2 RECLAMATION TREATMENTS FOR THE WASATCH LOOP CLOSURE 

This section describes the reclamation procedures and measures that will be used to 

reclaim and revegetate disturbed areas along the Wasatch Loop ROW. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

 Page 6-2 

6.2.1 Clearing, Grading, and Topsoil Removal 

Pre-construction measures will include surveying and flagging the construction ROW 

and other ATWS and staging areas, clearing of vegetation, stripping and stockpiling available 

topsoil where required and grading the sites to provide safe work surfaces. Through 

coordination with landowners, temporary gates will be installed where livestock fences are 

crossed. 

The construction workspace limits, ATWS locations, wetlands and waterbody crossings, 

and sensitive resource areas will be staked or flagged prior to clearing operations. The stakes 

or flags will indicate the width of the construction workspace within the ROW, including the tops 

of cut slopes and the bottoms of fill slopes. Vehicle travel and equipment operation will be kept 

within all approved work areas. Large vegetation, such as large shrubs or trees, will be cleared 

from the staked ROW and stockpiled for later use as vegetative mulch, brushpile habitat 

development, OHV barriers, or staged for landowner use. All bladework on the ROW will be 

kept at a minimum, and, where practical, vegetation will be crushed in-place in areas where 

slopes and contours are lower and the ROW does not have to be further graded for access and 

construction. To minimize the fire hazard potential, damage to construction equipment and the 

need for a stable and safe working surface for construction activities, Kern River proposes to 

scalp or blade previously undisturbed portions of the construction ROW where shrub or similar 

vegetation densities pose a safety hazard. This method of scalping or blading will otherwise 

leave the remainder of the surface soil and root systems intact, except where topsoil is removed 

for trench excavation and excavating and grading is required for access and to provide safe 

construction workspace on the moderate-to steep terrain which occurs on most of the route east 

of MP 25.5. 

Topsoil and vegetative debris will be removed from the area between the survey stakes 

to a maximum depth of 12 inches over the trench and spoil storage areas, as well as any areas 

involving cut and fill, such as on side-slopes. In agricultural and residential areas, topsoil 

segregation will occur across the full width of the construction workspace. Topsoil may also be 

segregated if requested by the landowner or land management agency. Topsoil may also be 

segregated elsewhere to enhance restoration on rangelands and Forest Service lands in 

accordance with the site-specific plans that will be completed in consultation with the USFS, 

BLM and other managing agencies or land owners. Subsoil will be stockpiled separately from 

topsoil. Outside of agricultural and residential areas, topsoiling will be conducted on a site-bysite basis, based on discussions with land owners. Where additional topsoiling is requested, 

topsoil and vegetative debris will be removed to a typical depth of 12 inches over the trench and 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

 Page 6-3 

spoil storage areas, as well as any areas involving cut and fill, such as on side-slopes. Topsoil 

will only be segregated on USFS and UDWR lands where topsoil is available, as well as on 

privately-owned lands as requested by the landowner. Where shallow soils or soils with stony 

substrates are encountered, Kern River will reduce the depth for segregating the topsoil to 

approximately 4 to 6 inches, instead of the typical 12 inches for deeper soils as specified in the 

FERC Plan. When soils have a high content of cobbles, rocks, or boulders, or when surface 

fines are less than 4 to 6 inches deep, topsoil salvaging may not be possible. Kern River will 

only attempt to topsoil when safe construction conditions can be maintained. Kern River will 

make every effort to segregate the entire topsoil layer, avoiding mixing with the underlying 

horizons, and to stockpile separately from all subsoil material. The segregated topsoil and 

subsoil stockpiles will be replaced in the proper order during backfilling and final grading (see 

Figure 4-2). 

The width of the surface disturbance will be kept to the minimum necessary for safe 

construction. Whenever possible, the existing soil surface will not be disturbed over the 

remainder of the ROW. Where existing vegetation requires cutting or crushing for safety 

reasons, plant roots will be left intact. Additionally, if mowing or scalping is required in these 

areas, plant root systems will also be left intact. 

Surface boulders, where present and where it is useful for reclamation, will be 

windrowed along the construction ROW or ATWS edge, final placement will be coordinated with 

the appropriate land management agency or landowner. Once trench backfilling and topsoil 

replacement is complete, the boulders will be placed over the construction ROW or ATWS in a 

pattern that visually blends with the undisturbed adjacent areas, or will be utilized as an erosion 

control (rock) mulch, or to control OHV access. Cobbles brought to the surface in agricultural 

land will be removed and disposed of at approved locations, generally an existing 

construction/demolition waste area, or at a landowner-approved site. 

There are also other special provisions for ROW clearing, grading and topsoil 

management for crossing wetlands and streams and washes which are addressed in Section 

6.4 of this Reclamation Plan. 

During construction, all vehicle travel will be limited to the approved construction ROW, 

ATWS, staging areas and on approved access roads. Kern River plans to use primarily existing 

public and private access roads. Only one new temporary access road has been identified for 

the Project, located in the vicinity of Interstate 215 and Redwood Road near MP 27.0, which will 

be removed and restored to pre-existing conditions following construction. Some of the other 

existing access roads will require grading and maintenance to safely accommodate vehicles 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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and equipment. Project vehicle travel outside the approved construction corridor or on 

unapproved access roads will not be permitted. 

6.2.2 Right-of-Way Restoration 

After pipeline sections are assembled and lowered into the trench, trench backfilling and 

ROW clean-up will begin as soon as practicable. Clean-up will include removal of all 

construction-related materials. This refuse will then be hauled to an approved disposal site or 

recycled by the contractor for other uses. Clean-up and restoration involve completion of 

backfilling, final grading (including replacement of the stockpiled topsoil, boulders, etc.), 

restoration of pre-construction contours, installation of permanent erosion control structures 

(typically water bars [slope breakers], as described below) and reseeding. Repair or 

replacement of existing livestock fences is also done with the completion of the final erosioncontrol work and revegetation. Livestock protection or exclusion fencing may also be installed if 

required by the USFS or UDWR within current grazing allotments, or other landowner 

conditions. 

a) Backfilling 

The excavated trench material (subsoil) will be used to backfill the trench, except for use 

of bedding and padding material where necessary to protect the pipe coating from contact with 

rocks. When there is excess backfill material or when the material is unsuitable for use in 

backfilling, these materials will be spread and contoured into the ROW before replacement of 

topsoil, or otherwise will be disposed of in a manner acceptable to the land management 

agency or landowner. Trench crowns will not be used on this Project. 

Topsoil or surface fines saved before construction will be spread evenly over the bladed 

area from which they were collected after trench backfilling is completed. Care will be taken to 

not mix topsoil with the fill material. Drainages will be kept free of soil material and all existing 

drainage patterns will be restored during this process. 

b) Decompaction 

Compacted soils, as determined through compaction tests by the Kern River 

Environmental Inspector (EI) during construction activities, will be decompacted in accordance 

with Section V.C.2. of the Kern River Plan. Decompaction will occur to a minimum depth of 6 

inches in non-agricultural areas and to a minimum depth of 18 inches in active agricultural lands 

using heavy-duty disks, chisel plows, or similar deep tillage decompaction equipment in a multidirectional pattern. Appropriate decompaction will be performed in severely compacted 

residential areas. 
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c) Recontouring 

All graded or excavated areas on the construction ROW and ATWS will be recontoured 

to blend with the surrounding topography. The emphasis during recontouring will be to restore 

the existing drainage patterns and contours to as near pre-construction condition as possible. 

Reshaping the land surface using tractors, bulldozers, backhoes, or graders, along with 

restoring natural drainage patterns and contours to promote restoration and revegetation is in 

itself an effective erosion control measure. 

d) Rock Mulch 

Any cobbles, boulders, or cleared vegetation that was separated for use as mulch in 

specified areas will be re-spread over the replaced topsoil surface. Larger rocks and boulders 

removed to the side of the construction ROW will be re-placed, where possible, in naturallyoccurring patterns. 

e) Imprinting 

The use of an imprinting device will aid in the restoration of erodible soils by firming 

loosened soils to a minor degree. Imprinting leaves small depressions on the soil surface that 

slows wind velocities at the surface. More importantly, the depressions will provide a microenvironment for the collection of windblown seeds and moisture, and some shading or microrelief against direct sunlight. The imprinter should leave a non-directional depression pattern 

and should not leave furrows trending downslope, which can channelize stormwater. If seed is 

not direct drilled, the seed mixture will be broadcast prior to imprinting operations. A broadcast 

seeder may be positioned on the imprinter equipment in a location that places the seed in 

advance of imprinting. Imprinting helps place the broadcasted seed in close contact with the 

soil in addition to providing a favorable micro-environment. 

f) Water Bars (Slope Breakers) 

Water bars are an effective means of erosion control on longitudinal slopes to control 

runoff from creating gulley erosion by dispersing the runoff away from the exposed slope. In 

general, water bars are a 1-ft or at times higher berm with an uphill-side swale that is angled 

very gently downslope. 

Permanent water bars will be constructed on ascent/descent slopes and in areas of 

erodible soils to direct runoff from the disturbed areas to an adjacent stabilized well-vegetated 

or rocky outfall, thereby minimizing the potential of erosional channels and sediment transport 

(see Appendix A, TYP-19). Water bars will be constructed to meet USFS standards and in 

accordance with Section V.B.2. of the Kern River Reclamation Plan. Kern River will install water 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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bars along contours with a maximum downslope gradient of approximately 2%. In addition, 

runoff from the water bar will be directed toward a stable, undisturbed area at the edge of the 

construction corridor, and will be constructed of sufficient size, generally 12 to 18 inches in 

depth and with a minimum 12-inch berm above grade. Water bars will be installed using the 

following spacing guidelines as shown in Table 6-1. 

Table 6-1 

Water Bars Spacing Guidelines 

Percent Slope Spacing Interval 

1 – 5 % only as needed 

5 – 15% 300 ft 

15 – 30% 200 ft 

+30% 100 ft 

The actual spacing and configurations of water bar placement, however, will be further 

based upon field conditions to accommodate site-specific conditions, such as slope contours, 

runoff areas and locations of stable outfall areas, or as determined by the land managing 

agency. Water bars also will be installed at the entrance and exit of all stream and wetland 

crossings and on slopes adjacent to road crossings depending upon local topographic 

conditions. Topsoil will not be used in the construction of water bars. 

6.2.3 Revegetation 

The Project traverses three-major vegetation types (Albee et al. 1988), these include: 

Great Basin Sagebrush; Mountain Mahogany – Oak Scrub and Douglas Fir Forest. 

It is noted that based on field surveys conducted in the spring of 2009, no known 

threatened or endangered plant species were observed within the 400 to 600-ft-wide surveyed 

corridor. Species of concern are further addressed in Resource Report No. 3, Vegetation and 

Wildlife and follow-up survey reports to be included in Kern River’s supplemental information 

submittals to the FERC and other involved agencies. The following seedbed preparation 

procedures, seed mixtures, seeding rates and seeding methods were compiled based on Best 

Management Practice procedures, existing vegetative communities, and in coordination with 

USFS, BLM, UDWR, and NRCS offices, in addition to Kern River’s Reclamation Plan. Where 

any site requires treatment for noxious weeds, pre-treatment will occur prior to construction and 

if needed prior to seeding in accordance with Kern River’s Noxious Weed Control Plan. 

a) Seedbed Preparation 

For most of the ROW (except in steep/erodible soils, stream/wetland/riparian crossing 

areas and active agricultural lands where additional measures will be required), the seedbed 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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preparation will consist of decompaction of severely compacted soils and recontouring and 

topsoil replacement activities described in Section 6.2.2. 

In areas where straw punching is used, such as visually-sensitive areas or areas 

adjacent to streams, the first application of straw punch will serve as seedbed preparation. 

Imprinting, seed drilling, or harrowing will be deleted from the treatment when straw punching is 

used. Where a native rock surface exists over fine soils, rock mulching may be used. The rock 

will be applied after topsoil replacement. This technique functions similarly to the imprinting 

process in that the rocky surface provides micro-environments in which seed and moisture can 

collect, thereby providing an avenue for natural plant recruitment. Imprinting will typically not be 

used when rock mulch is used, rather broadcast seeding methods will be used. 

b) Seeding Mixtures and Rates 

All construction-related disturbed areas will be re-seeded in accordance with agency 

recommendations and existing vegetative types at appropriate seeding rates. The vegetation 

types typically indicate the growing regime at a particular site. The criteria used for selecting 

the species were based on: 

■ erosion control capability; 

■ species presence within the vegetation type; 

■ ease of propagation; 

■ availability and cost of seed; and 

■ wildlife habitat value or landowner preference in active agricultural areas. 

The proposed seed mixtures are compatible with the major vegetative types described 

above and existing vegetative communities observed, as well as restoration monitoring data 

collected along the 2003 Kern River Expansion Project ROW through the Intermountain region. 

The seed mixture will be acquired from commercial seed vendors using regional seed sources, 

if available. The seed will be certified weed-free by the vendor to ensure compliance with state 

and federal requirements. If availability of the proposed seed from commercial vendors is an 

issue, alternative species will be developed. Any seed variations will be approved by the 

appropriate land management agency prior to their use. 

Great Basin Sagebrush Community

As described in the Atlas of the Vascular Plants of Utah (Albee et al. 1988), this 

vegetation type dominates dry areas of valleys and lower slopes of mountains and plateaus in 

which the vegetation has adapted to the temperature climates of moderate elevations (above 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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3,300 ft and below 6,600 ft). Figure 6-1 provides a visual example of the Great Basin 

Sagebrush Community traversed by the Project corridor. In addition, Riparian and Canyon 

Woodlands are primarily associated with perennial drainages within this community (1988). 

Figure 6-2 provides a visual illustration of a typical Riparian and Canyon Woodland type located 

in the Project area. 

The predominant flora identified along the Project ROW through this vegetative type 

were sagebrush, rabbitbrush, wheatgrass and bromes. In addition, perennial drainages and wet 

meadows (typically associated with livestock watering areas) were identified and included 

cottonwood, willow, alder, birch dogwood, sedge and rush. Improved pasture land and annual 

crop production land, totaling approximately 1% of the Wasatch Loop, was observed to be in 

winter wheat, flood irrigated alfalfa and crested wheatgrass production. 

Kern River has developed Seed mixture UT-1 to be compatible with the Great Basin 

Sagebrush vegetative type and in compliance with Utah’s Standards and Guidelines for Healthy 

Rangelands (see Table 6-2). Sagebrush was included to provide an initial jump-start in 

mitigating visual and wildlife habitat impacts. The mixture may be altered depending on seed 

availability or landowner preference. For example, UDWR has suggested the addition of the 

following species to seed mixture UT-1 for their managed lands, these include: bluebunch 

wheatgrass (2 pounds/acre/pure live seed [lds/ac/PLS]); thickspike wheatgrass (2 lbs/ac/PLS); 

Great Basin wildrye (2 lbs/ac/PLS); Utah sweet vetch (2 lbs/ac/PLS); western yarrow (2 

lbs/ac/PLS); and rocky mountain penstemon (0.25 lbs/ac/PLS). Any further modifications to 

these seed mixtures that may be required due to availability or other factors will first be 

reviewed with the appropriate land management agency. 

Additional nursery stock shrub species appropriate for mitigating visual impacts within 

this vegetation type include rabbitbrush, serviceberry or ninebark. Propagation and 

transplanting protocols are provided below (Section 6.2.3 d). 

Seed mixture UT-2 provides seeding recommendations for the restoration of the 

Riparian and Canyon Woodlands community crossed by the Project (see Table 6-3). Riparian 

zone restoration may include cuttings, rootings, or nursery stock. Ninebark, chokecherry, 

snowberry, elderberry, serviceberry, or twinberry may be added or substituted into the mix to 

mitigate visual impacts. To maintain pipeline integrity and offset visual impacts, Kern River 

agrees to allow natural recruitment of adjacent tree species, typified by narrowleaf cottonwood 

and river birch, to within 10 ft of the pipeline. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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Figure 6-1 

Typical Great Basin Sagebrush Community within the Project Corridor 

Figure 6-2 

Typical Riparian and Canyon Woodland Community within Project Area 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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Table 6-2 

Mixture UT–1 

Seed Mixture for the Great Basin Sagebrush Community 

Common Species Name (cultivar) Seed Application Rate (lbs/ac/PLS)a

Mountain brome (Garnet) 2 

Orchard grass (Paiute) 2 

Slender wheatgrass (Native) 5 

Small burnet (Delar) 3 

Lewis flax (Appar) 0.5 

Alfalfa (Ranger) 2 

Serviceberry 1 

Sagebrush (Hobblecreek) 0.5 

Note: 

a

 Seeding rate is listed as lbs/ac/PLS. Seeding rate is doubled if hydroseeded or broadcast. The seed mix may be modified based 

on site-specific conditions, identification of additional useful species for rapid site stabilization, species’ success in past

revegetation efforts, seed availability and cost. An alternative seeding rate may be applied in areas deemed appropriate by the 

land management agency or the landowner. 

Table 6-3 

Mixture UT–2 

Seed Mixture for the Riparian and Canyon Woodlands Community 

Common Species Name 

(cultivar) Seed Application Rate (lbs/ac/PLS)a

Utah sweetvetch (Timp) 3 

Basin wildrye (Trailhead) 5 

Willow (cuttings) Average of 10-ft centers 

Red-osier dogwood (rooted cuttings) Average of 15-ft centers 

Note: 

a

 Seeding rate is listed as lbs/ac/PLS. Seeding rate is doubled if hydroseeded or broadcast. The seed mix may be modified based 

on site-specific conditions, identification of additional useful species for rapid site stabilization, species’ success in past

revegetation efforts, seed availability and cost. An alternative seeding rate may be applied in areas deemed appropriate by the 

land management agencies or the landowner. 

For wet meadow habitat areas located within the Great Basin Sagebrush community of 

the Project, the restoration seed mixture and application rates are listed under Mixture UT-3 

(see Table 6-4). This habitat type was found within the Project corridor associated only with the 

Tom Porter Spring outflow channel at approximate milepost (MP) 0.53, which was dominated by 

Baltic rush. During construction, soils that occur above the water table will be salvaged and 

stockpiled separately. The soils will then be replaced and worked as little as possible to reduce 

compaction. The seeding will be lightly raked into the top 0.25-inch of the soil using low-ground 

weight equipment that avoids rutting and compaction, or by hand. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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Table 6-4 

Mixture UT–3 

Seed Mixture for Wet Meadow Communities 

Common Species Name 

(cultivar) Seed Application Rate (lbs/ac/PLS)a

Redtop bentgrass (Streaker) 8 

Baltic rush 0.25 

Note: 

a

 Seeding rate is listed as lbs/ac/PLS. Seeding rate is doubled if hydroseeded or broadcast. The seed mix may be modified based 

on site-specific conditions, identification of additional useful species for rapid site stabilization, species’ success in past

revegetation efforts, seed availability and cost. An alternative seeding rate may be applied in areas deemed appropriate by the 

land management agencies or the landowner. 

For wetland areas where the soils are considered saline and/or alkaline, Kern River will 

use the seeding mixture and rates that are listed under Mixture UT-3A (see Table 6-5). Within 

the Project corridor, only the Chevron Refinery property [MP 26.43 to MP 26.85] was found 

supporting this habitat type. Because of the potential high soil salinity/alkalinity in this area, only 

plants that are tolerant of such conditions are recommended for use. During construction, soils 

that occur above the water table will be salvaged. The soils will then be replaced and worked 

as little as possible to reduce compaction. The seeding will be raked or harrowed into the top 

0.5 inch of the soil using low-ground weight equipment. 

Table 6-5 

Mixture UT–3A 

Seed Mixture for Saline/Alkaline Wetland Community 

located within the Chevron Refinery Crossing 

[MP 26.43 to MP 26.85] 

Common Species Name 

(cultivar) Seed Application Rate (lbs/ac/PLS)a

Alkaligrass (Fults) 3 

Alkali sacaton 2 

Iodinebush 0.5 

Shadscale 1 

Note: 

a

 Seeding rate is listed as lbs/ac/PLS. Seeding rate is doubled if hydroseeded or broadcast. The seed mix may be modified based 

on site-specific conditions, identification of additional useful species for rapid site stabilization, species’ success in past

revegetation efforts, seed availability and cost. An alternative seeding rate may be applied in areas deemed appropriate by the 

land management agencies or the landowner. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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Mountain Mahogany – Oak Scrub Community

This vegetation type dominates the lower slopes of the Wasatch Range (1988) which 

include hills, canyons, rocky slopes and rocky ridges at altitudes of 3,900 ft to 9,900 ft 

(Stubbendieck et al. 2003). In addition, Riparian and Canyon Woodlands communities also are 

found here. Figure 6-3 presents a visual image of a typical Mountain Mahogany – Oak Scrub 

community traversed by the Project. 

The principal flora identified along the Project corridor through this vegetative type were 

Gambel oak, curlleaf mountain mahogany, bigtooth maple, sagebrush, ninebark and bromes. In 

addition, perennial drainageways dominated by cottonwood, willow, dogwood, twinberry, or 

birch also were identified. 

Seed mixtures UT-1 and UT-2 are prescribed for restoration in this community based on 

field surveys that indicated a similar species make-up (see Figure 6-3). In addition, because 

this habitat type is used extensively for livestock grazing and wildlife winter range, this seed 

mixture should provide a balanced nutritional forage base capable of withstanding potential 

grazing impacts and accommodate ROW surveillance. 

Figure 6-3 

Typical Mountain Mahogany – Oak Scrub Community 
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Douglas Fir Community

This vegetation type dominates the higher elevations of the Project corridor through the 

Wasatch Range within the UWCNF and is typically found associated with north aspect slopes 

and in association with stands of aspen. In addition, open grassland and meadows are 

scattered throughout the area. Figure 6-4 provides a visual example of the Douglas Fir 

Community traversed by the Project corridor. 

Figure 6-4 

Douglas Fir Community within the Project Corridor 

Major flora identified along the Project corridor through this vegetative type included 

Douglas fir, aspen, Gambel oak, curlleaf mahogany, bigtooth maple, Utah honeysuckle, 

ninebark, balsamroot, mulesear, American vetch, bromes and larkspur with other interspersed 

herbaceous species. 

Kern River has developed Seed mixture UT-4 to be compatible with the Douglas Fir 

vegetative type and in compliance with the 2003 Revised Forest Plan for the UWCNF (see 

Table 6-6). Rootings or nursery stock of ninebark, chokecherry, snowberry, elderberry, or 

serviceberry may be added or substituted into the mix to mitigate visual impacts. 

To maintain pipeline integrity and off-set visual impacts, Kern River may selectively allow 

natural recruitment of adjacent tree species, typified by Douglas fir, aspen, mahogany, Gambel 

oak and bigtooth maple to within 10 ft of the pipeline. 
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Table 6-6 

Mixture UT–4 

Seed Mixture for the Douglas Fir Community within the WCNF 

Common Species Name 

(cultivar) Seed Application Rate (lbs/ac/PLS)a

Mountain brome (Garnet) 5 

Beardless wheatgrass (Whitmar) 5 

Blue wildrye (Arlington) 7 

Utah sweetvetch (Timp) 3 

Penstemon (Rocky Mountain) 1 

Balsamroot 1 

Snowberry 1 

Serviceberry 1 

Sagebrush (Mountain) 0.5 

Note: 

a

 Seeding rate is listed as pounds lbs/ac/PLS. Seeding rate is doubled if hydroseeded or broadcast. The seed mix may be 

modified based on site-specific conditions, identification of additional useful species for rapid site stabilization, species’ success in 

past revegetation efforts, seed availability and cost. An alternative seeding rate may be applied in areas deemed appropriate by 

the land management agency or the landowner. 

c) Seeding Methods 

The main purpose of all seeding methods is to place the seed in direct contact with the 

soil at average depths of 0.5-inch, but not exceeding a depth of 1 inch, to cover the seed with 

soil, and to firm the soil around the seed in order to eliminate air pockets. Some methods of 

seeding are more effective at seed placement than others. The type of terrain is a major 

determinant for the type of seeding method that is practicable; therefore, the method of seeding 

will be based on site-specific conditions, such as slope and on associated equipment limitations. 

Seeding will occur in all areas that have replaced topsoil or surface fines, which will include all 

disturbed areas except exposed rock faces. Dormant seeding will be conducted in the fall 

following clean-up and after final grading to take advantage of winter and early spring moisture 

and in conjunction with the completion of erosion control work before the spring runoff. 

Broadcast seeding may be accomplished with a hand-operated, cyclone-type seeder; a 

mechanical broadcast seeder attached to the imprinting device; or a specially-designed blower. 

This method distributes the seed on top of the surface without mulch. The seeds must be 

covered by raking or dragging a chain or harrow over the seedbed. Imprinting with straw punch 

treatment also may be used to place seed in the soil. The cyclone-type seeder can be used on 

any slope that can be reached by foot; however, the blow seeder is limited by equipment 

access. Drill seeding places seed into the soil at a uniform depth, but can be used only on 

moderate slopes. While drill seeding is the best method for seed placement, broadcast seeding 
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followed by imprinting or straw punching also will provide effective seed placement where slope 

conditions prevent the use of drill seeding. 

Hydroseeding/hydromulching uses water with a slurry of seed, mulch and tackifier, which 

is sprayed over the restored topsoil surface. This method often does not allow for good soil-toseed contact, leaves seed exposed to desiccating wind and temperatures, increases seed loss 

by rodent and avian foraging and is limited by equipment access. While 

hydroseeding/hydromulching may be utilized, its use is limited mainly to road slopes or sites that 

are readily accessible for the equipment utilized. Much of the ROW will be inaccessible for this 

equipment once finish grading has been completed. 

Seed will either be broadcast to the surface before the imprinting or dragging process or 

will be drill seeded, except for areas with steep/erodible soils and stream/wetland/riparian 

crossing areas, where other methods will be used. In visually sensitive areas or areas above 

streams, initial seeding will be applied using straw punching. Additional seed may be applied by 

either broadcasting or hydroseeding following the first straw punching application. On slopes 

that cannot be punched with straw, but that can be reached with a hydromulcher, seed will be 

applied to the slope in a slurry with mulch. A soil tackifier will be added to the hydromulch 

application if slopes are in excess of 25%, in accordance with applicable standards. Slopes that 

cannot be straw punched or hydroseeded/hydromulched may be aerial broadcast seeded and 

hand-raked. Such slopes may also be chain harrowed where conditions allow safe equipment 

operations. 

d) Vegetative Propagation and Transplanting 

This section describes the methods to be used to place cuttings or containerized nursery 

plants along the ROW. 

Areas that have been determined to be visually sensitive (see Section 6.5) may have 

recommended limited shrub and tree species planted within the ROW in such a manner as to 

off-set the “distinct linear edge” of a newly installed pipeline. Tree species, that tend to develop 

taproots, will not be planted within 10 ft of the pipeline. As identified above, appropriate nursery 

stock species for planting may include but are not limited to sagebrush, rabbitbush, 

serviceberry, curlleaf mahogany or bitterbrush. These containerized contract grown plant 

materials shall be hardened-off at their prospective planting area or similar area for at least two 

weeks before planting. This step is especially critical when the environment of the growing 

nursery may be different from that of the planting area. All propagated plants will be placed in a 

concave basin to increase soil moisture near the plant’s root structure. Site-specific plans for 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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use of propagated plants are currently being developed in consultation with land management 

agencies and other affected landowners. 

e) Soil Amendments/Fertilizer 

Soil amendments consist of fertilizers, wood or straw mulches, tackifying agents, if 

allowed, or soil stabilizing emulsions. Based on NRCS recommendations and recent 

experiences of other large-diameter-pipeline restoration efforts, which have met established 

success criteria, Kern River is not currently proposing the application of fertilizers as part of its 

post-construction restoration activities as the use of fertilizers tend to benefit annual (invasive) 

plant growth over the preferred perennial species being recommended. Kern River may, 

however, include use of a pre-emergent herbicide, such as OustR or PlateauR, to retard 

cheatgrass germination which will allow time for the perennial herbaceous species to become 

established (Connelly et al. 2000). 

6.3 Reclamation Treatment for Steep Slopes and Erodible Soils 

Soil types along the Wasatch Loop and at aboveground facilities are identified in 

Resource Report No. 7 - Soils, along with their erosion and revegetation potentials. 

Approximately 90% of the proposed Project facilities have moderate to high erosion, shallow 

bedrock, or poor revegetation potentials (see Resource Report No. 7, Soils, Table 7.5-2 and 

Volume 2 – Appendix 7A, Table 7A-2). Total acreage estimates for soils with these limitations 

are: 

■ Soils with high water erosion potential: 341 acres 

■ Soils with high wind erosion potential: 28 acres 

■ Soils with shallow bedrock: 221 acres 

The majority of the Wasatch loop will cross landforms exhibiting steep slopes and/or 

erodible soils. The objective of this reclamation treatment is to stabilize the soil resource and 

minimize erosion by wind or water. 

Punching in of straw mulch is useful in retaining seed and in minimizing the soil erosion 

potential on slopes greater than 25%. In this process, which is detailed below (Section 6.3. 

1.e), weed-free straw is placed in two layers with the seed application following the first layer. 

Hydroseeding/hydromulching maybe used on sites that cannot be straw punched but are 

accessible for this type of equipment. Where this method is used, the mulch and seed mix will 

be well-blended in a slurry and applied to the slope. The application rate will be approximately 

2,000 pounds of wood fiber mulch per acre. A tackifier or soil stabilizer may be added to the 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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hydroseed/hydromulch slurry when the slurry is applied to slopes in excess of 25%. 

Biodegradable tackifiers and soil stabilizers tack the seed and mulch to the slope. Organic 

tackifiers are non-toxic to plants and animals and degrade within approximately two years. 

On side hill slopes of 30% or greater and at designated stream banks, erosion control 

matting/netting will also be installed after seeding to afford a greater level of erosion control until 

vegetation can become established. Degradable products such as North American GreenTM will 

be used as shown in Figure TYP-22 in Appendix A. 

6.3.1 Reclamation Procedures 

The procedures necessary to achieve soil stabilization will be in addition to the 

procedures outlined above and will include one or more of the following measures. 

a) Recontouring 

Recontouring, as described in Section 6.2.2, is especially important in steep and 

erodible terrain. Shaping the land surface to the approximate original contours and directing 

runoff into existing drainageways or stable outlets will be a priority objective in all steep-slope 

and erodible areas. 

b) Water Bars (Slope Breakers) 

Water bars, described in Section 6.2.2 and Figure TYP-19 in Appendix A, also will be an 

important reclamation measure in steep and erodible terrain. Bar spacing generally is reduced 

in steep-slope and erodible areas in accordance with FERC guidelines. Water bars may be 

omitted when the surface is predominantly rocky and resistant to water erosion. 

c) Trench Breakers 

On slopes where natural drainages parallel the pipeline alignment, trench breakers will 

be used. Trench breakers are typically sandbags, foam plugs, or bentonite packed in and 

around the pipeline to minimize the piping of water along the pipeline trench and to prevent 

gullying and pipeline exposure. Trench breakers are described in Figure TYP-21 in Appendix A 

and are included in Section VI.B.1 of the FERC Plan. 

d) Stockpiling 

For slopes too steep to maintain windrowed trench spoil material, stockpile areas will be 

identified by Kern River and identified as ATWS, as shown in the construction alignment sheets. 
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e) Straw Crimping or Punching 

The use of a straw mulch and a crimping or punching device will aid in stabilizing 

erodible soils and minimize sedimentation in wetlands/waterbodies by binding loosened soils 

and providing the area with an instant soil cover. This method is applicable on slopes greater 

than 25% and in areas adjacent to wetlands/streams. As a rule, the straw is blown or handspread, then crimped or punched into the soil with shovels or a sheeps-foot roller pulled by a 

tractor. The spreading and punching process is conducted in two applications. The first 

application, spread at a rate of 1.5 tons per acre, is placed prior to punching-in. The second 

application, spread at a rate of 1.5 tons per acre, is spread following the punching-in operation. 

This will allow for a total of 3 tons per acre of straw mulch cover. Straw used will be free of 

noxious weeds. The soil holds the straw in place, and the straw in turn reduces the wind and 

water erosion potential and provides an environment conducive to water retention and seed 

collection/germination. This process leaves small depressions in the soil surface, which aid in 

decreasing wind velocities at the soil surface. This process also helps to place the broadcasted 

seed in close contact with the soil, provides a micro-environment for the recruitment of 

windblown seed, aids in the collection and retention of moisture, helps reduce the water erosion 

potential and provides some shading against direct sunlight impacts. 

The crimper should leave a non-directional depression pattern and not leave furrows 

trending downslope, which can channelize stormwater flows. If water bars (slope breakers) are 

to be installed, they should be built before crimper use, then inspected and repaired by hand 

afterward because equipment use may flatten portions of the water bars making them 

ineffective. 

f) Rock Mulch 

Saving and replacing a layer of rock or importing rock for use on the surface of erodible 

soils is an appropriate erosion control measure in some critical areas. Suitable sites include 

areas that naturally support a gravel, cobble, or boulder veneer on the surface (lag layer) and 

rocky slopes. Rock mulch over erodible soils slows wind velocities at and above the soil 

surface and creates wind eddies behind the cobble where windblown seed may accumulate. It 

also provides micro-environments beneficial to plant re-establishment because they allow 

moisture to collect and provide shade and protection from direct sunlight and desiccating winds 

thereby protecting newly established plants. Rock mulch, while protecting against raindrop 

impact on erodible soils, does not provide adequate surface water erosion protection. 

Therefore, steep areas also may require construction of water bars. Rock mulch also helps in 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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visually approximating the native surface before disturbance, as long as the rock color does not 

contrast with the natural surface. 

g) Matting/Netting 

On side hills and slopes approximately 30% or greater and at designated stream banks 

or road slopes and embankments, erosion control matting or netting will be installed following 

seeding as shown in Figure TYP-22 in Appendix A. The purpose of this matting or netting is to 

provide a greater degree of soil erosion protection until vegetation can become established. 

Degradable products such as North American Green TM will be used. 

6.4 RECLAMATION TREATMENT FOR STREAM/WASH/WETLAND CROSSINGS 

AND RIPARIAN AREAS 

Wetland communities and waterbody crossings along the pipeline route are summarized 

in Resource Report No. 2, Water Use and Quality. Individual wetlands are identified by MP in 

Resource Report No. 2, Volume 2 – Appendix 2A, Table 2A-2 and will be further addressed in 

the Application to the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for Authorization under 

the Nationwide Permit 12. The total acreage of wetlands affected by the construction ROW is 

5.46 acres, and all are classified as emergent palustrine scrub/shrub wetlands. 

This section provides a discussion of reclamation techniques that will be used in the 

reclamation of streams and wetlands. The objective of this treatment is to minimize 

sedimentation and degradation of the stream or wetland; to restore riparian and wetland 

vegetation; to stabilize the streambed, stream banks and flood zones; and to prevent pipeline 

exposure. 

This treatment will require additional measures to minimize the transport of sediment 

from the adjacent workspace into streams. Where possible, alignment width and vegetation 

clearing will be minimized. 

In addition, the objectives of this treatment will be achieved by applying one or more of 

the following measures: 

■ Omit imprinting in active wash areas, but restore contours and perform bank stabilization. 

■ Burial of the pipeline to ensure that flash flood erosion action will not expose the pipeline or 

jeopardize pipeline integrity. The pipeline will be placed below the estimated depth of scour 

as estimated by the SHB studies. For those stream crossings that were not previously 

studied by SHB, the pipe should be buried with a minimum depth of cover of 10 feet or into 

bedrock, whichever is shallower. As an alternative, Kern River can commission a site-
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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specific scour analysis to determine prospective depth of scour. The presence of bedrock 

will be evaluated at the time of construction by a qualified professional. 

■ Where designated, install erosion control matting or netting (as identified in Section 6.3-1) 

on stream banks from approximately the water’s edge and extended and secured over the 

top of the banks (see Figure TYP-22 in Appendix A). 

■ Where there may be potential for higher energy hydraulic erosion, armor the banks with a 

rock size larger than the carrying capacity of the anticipated worst-case water flow or where 

erosion is naturally active. The upper reaches of riprap armor will be covered with topsoil 

and seeded. In general, re-contour banks to their natural, stable contours. Revegetation 

will be the preferred method when a higher order of erosion protection is not required. 

■ Re-establish original contours of wetlands and stream channels. 

■ Minimize perennial streambed disturbance where there is flowing water by using temporary 

equipment bridges or culvert equipment crossings (see Figure TYP-16 and TYP-17 in 

Appendix A), or another appropriate method for access along the ROW during construction. 

Limit in-stream disturbance to installation of the pipeline crossing itself. See Figure TYP-15 

in Appendix A for typical construction across dry washes/stream beds. 

■ Minimize ROW width to the approved construction ROW and locate ATWS 50 ft from the 

edge of the wetland or stream crossing except where topography or other constraints 

require a modification as described in Kern River’s Procedures and which will be identified in 

the construction alignment sheets or other site-specific drawings. 

■ Control sedimentation by means of silt fences (see Figure TYP-15 in Appendix A), straw 

bale filters (see Figure TYP-20 in Appendix A), or straw mulching. 

■ Minimize duration of the crossing, complete cleanup and restoration and re-establish 

riparian and wetland vegetation as soon as possible. 

■ Implement special conditions that may be included with the USACE Nationwide Permit 12 

authorizations and stream alteration permits to be issued by the Utah Division of Water 

Rights. 

Restoration of stream crossings and washes generally will be accomplished by using 

Kern River’s typical or site-specific crossing plans and by implementing Kern River’s Procedures

and by adopting procedures in accordance with the terms of USACE Nationwide Permit 12 for 

utility crossings. The locations of wetland/waterbodies, construction, and restoration 

procedures are addressed further in Resource Report No. 2, Water Use and Quality, and in 

Kern River’s joint application to USACE and the Utah Division of Water Rights for authorization 

for water body and wetland crossings and issuance of individual Stream Alteration Permits 

where required. 
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6.5 RECLAMATION FOR VISUALLY SENSITIVE AREAS 

One of the objectives of reclamation will be to minimize the effects of construction within 

visually sensitive areas or within viewsheds of, or from, scenic resources. Kern River is in the 

process of conducting a visual resources assessment for the proposed Project, in consultation 

with the USFS and BLM. This visual resources assessment will include the identification of 

visually sensitive areas or scenic resources that may be visually impacted by the proposed 

Project, and measures to be implemented to avoid, minimize, or mitigate for any visual impacts 

during reclamation activities. Results of the visual resources assessment will be included in 

Section 8.6 of Resource Report 8. 

Kern River’s reclamation procedures for the pipeline loop, which has been sited parallel 

with and adjacent to existing utility corridors and ROW to the extent practicable, will be 

consistent with those measures identified to avoid, minimize, or mitigate for visual impacts. The 

presence of visually sensitive or scenic resource areas may alter the reclamation treatment to 

include, but not be limited to, one or more of the following: 

■ additional revegetation requirements, including planting of woody species of similar 

composition to those of the adjacent areas; 

■ intensive erosion control measures; 

■ variations in plantings after construction associated with construction ROW edges (i.e., 

feathering, scalloping) to reduce the visual impact of a linear boundary where large shrub 

and forest communities adjoin the ROW; 

■ placing topsoil and seed on upper reaches of streambank armoring and planting nursery 

stock or cuttings of appropriate species above the normal high-water line at drainage 

crossings; and 

■ restoring other rock faces/outcrops following construction. 

Additional measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate impacts on visually sensitive areas 

or scenic resources may also be identified and implemented as a result of consultation with land 

management agencies and/or landowners. 

6.6 RECLAMATION TREATMENT FOR ABOVE GROUND FACILITIES 

Major aboveground facilities include construction of the new Milford compressor station 

and modifications to the existing Coyote Creek, Fillmore and Dry Lake compressor stations and 

restaging of the Elberta compressor station. A summary of compressor station activities is 

provided in Resource Report 1 Table 1.1-1. 
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All work at the existing compressor stations will be within the existing, fenced station 

yards where the surface is maintained vegetation or gravel cover. Kern River will restore these 

areas to similar cover. Kern River will implement erosion and sediment control measures during 

construction in accordance with the Kern River Reclamation Plan. Dust control measures will 

also be utilized during construction including watering of disturbed areas as necessary. 

Kern River will implement the Kern River Reclamation Plan for erosion and sediment 

control during construction of the Milford compressor station. Since the slopes on the site 

average less than two percent, the potential for water erosion is low. Temporary mulching may 

be utilized to control wind erosion from stockpiled material and watering utilized for dust control. 

Following construction, portions of the approximately 33.16-acre site and perimeter area not 

maintained in gravel cover for operations will be seeded with Seed Mix Ut-1, appropriate for the 

Great Basin Sagebrush Community. 

Minor above ground facilities include a relocated pig launcher at an existing 

fenced/graveled site located at MP 0.00 (Main Line Valve 96) that currently contains two 

mainline block valves, two receivers and one launcher. The new launcher will be located in the 

existing fenced/graveled area so that no additional reclamation is planned beyond clean-up, 

finish grading, surfacing and reclamation of the ATWS and adjoining ROW. Mainline valves will 

also be installed at MP 7.12 and 24.55. These valve sites will also be fenced and surfaced with 

gravel. The adjacent ATWS and ROW will be otherwise restored in accordance with this 

Reclamation Plan. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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7. POST-CONSTRUCTION MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE 

Construction and reclamation are planned for 2011. Temporary and permanent 

reclamation measures will be monitored and success evaluated beginning the growing season 

following construction (2012). Monitoring is necessary to periodically evaluate recovery status 

of restored areas, identify the need for additional remediation and to make a final determination 

regarding success. This section describes monitoring protocols and revegetation performance 

criteria that will be used to assess the restored pipeline ROW. 

To monitor the recovery of the restored ROW, Kern River will use both qualitative and 

quantitative monitoring procedures and protocols used previously for the 2003 Kern River 

Expansion Project. The following sections were adopted from the 2003 Kern River Expansion 

Project and provide a summary of the performance success standards and monitoring protocols 

used. 

7.1 APEX EXPANSION PROJECT MONITORING AND MAINTENANCE 

The purpose of a monitoring program is to document whether areas that have been 

restored are progressing toward the long-term goal of soil stability, appropriate vegetative cover, 

diversity, habitat enhancement, and noxious weed control. Post-construction monitoring for the 

Project will include both qualitative and quantitative analysis of the restoration effort as well as 

monitoring for noxious weed infestations and treatment of these sites in accordance with the 

Noxious Weed Control Plan. First year post-reclamation monitoring will focus on performing a 

qualitative analysis of the ROW reclamation effort. Locations where additional remedial work 

may be required should be apparent and will be identified by MP for additional restorative 

actions. It should be noted, however, that monitoring of the ROW for significant or new erosion, 

other third-party damage, or noxious weed infestations is an element of Kern River’s routine 

aerial surveillance along the existing ROW and will be conducted throughout the life of the 

pipeline. It is anticipated that any active erosional areas would be apparent during the first two 

years following reclamation or after the first major storm or runoff event. Significant erosion 

would also be identified for corrective action during routine aerial surveillance. 

The primary objectives of Kern River’s monitoring program will be to: 

■ Assess the effectiveness of temporary and permanent erosion-control structures (e.g., slope 

breakers) to ensure the stability of the ROW and ATWS areas, and to ensure that runoff is 

naturally controlled with erosion-control structures in place and functioning with no 

accelerated erosion or wash-outs. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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■ Monitor and assess, through quantitative analysis, success of the reseeding effort during the 

second growing season, with subsequent follow-up surveys in the third growing season 

post-restoration. 

■ Monitor the survival of special plantings for visual restoration, if applicable, and qualitatively 

determine how well the restored ROW blends in with the adjacent undisturbed landscape. 

■ Monitor and assess targeted noxious weeds in accordance with Kern River's Noxious Weed 

Control Plan. 

■ Monitor and identify other disturbances on the ROW that may hinder reclamation success, 

such as excessive grazing or unauthorized OHV use. 

■ Identify places where other vegetation control may be needed. With the exception of 

noxious weed control, vegetative maintenance including mowing of non-agricultural lands or 

large sapling or tree removal is not anticipated. Kern River will, however, selectively remove 

large brush from the permanent ROW to facilitate aerial surveillance and inspection. 

7.1.1 Revegetation Performance Criteria 

A quantitative vegetative monitoring program will be developed by Kern River, in 

association with the land management agencies, to document the restoration progress along 

the Project corridor. The performance criteria is based on Kern Rivers’ previous monitoring 

efforts along the 2003 Kern River Expansion Project ROW and performance criteria established 

for the same. Restoration will be considered successful when the ROW and ATWS supports 

40% total cover of desirable plants in the Great basin areas and 60% through the mountains, 

when compared against an adjacent undisturbed (control) plot, by the third growing season 

following construction, and no accelerated erosion is occurring by the third growing season. 

As stated above, Kern River will quantitatively document restoration success along the 

Project ROW and adjacent undisturbed areas following the line transect/point intercept method 

of range analysis. This method was successfully used during monitoring efforts along the 2003 

Kern River Expansion Project corridor. Parameters surveyed typically include a species list and 

estimates of density and cover. Observations of soil disturbance, natural recruitment of 

native/invasive species, plant growth stages, animal use and grazing impacts are also recorded. 

Qualitative analysis methods will be incorporated at established monitoring locations to provide 

visual documentation of all quantitative data (Herrick et al. 2003 and 2005). 

7.1.2 Remedial Action and Maintenance 

Kern River will address active erosional areas as soon as practical. Additional erosion 

control work may be performed by applying the same basic techniques identified in this 

Reclamation Plan or modified based on site-specific conditions. It is also noted that some 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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temporary erosion control structures, such as straw bale sediment filters, will be allowed to 

decompose in place. 

Where a seeding failure is noted during monitoring, particularly where accompanied by 

observed increases in water or wind erosion or excessive OHV use, reseeding or replanting 

efforts, including supplemental mulching, will be performed in accordance with agreements with 

the land management agency or current landowner. 

Noxious weed control is also included in maintenance and will be performed in 

accordance with Kern River’s Noxious Weed Control Plan. 

7.2 REPORTING 

Kern River will document its observations of reclamation and revegetation success 

following the field inspections and provide summary reports to the FERC, USFS, UDWR, BLM 

and other land management agencies, as required. Areas that require remedial action will also 

be identified by MP and will include a description of additional erosion controls or reclamation 

work anticipated. Reports, to be submitted during the three years of monitoring, will include a 

summary of corrective actions proposed and will be submitted within three months of identifying 

these conditions. Areas where control applications for noxious weeds are needed will also be 

reported. 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

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8. OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE CONTROL 

In addition to restoring contours and slopes, installing permanent erosion control 

structures (i.e. slope breakers) and replacing fences, Kern River will leave the restored ROW 

surface in a roughened condition to discourage OHV activity. Signage will also be placed in key 

areas in an attempt to restrict OHV use. Additionally, Kern River may install rock barriers, 

earthen berms or other barricades at the intersections of existing access roads or trails crossed 

by the ROW, as determined in consultation with and at the direction of agency specialists or 

other landowners. Illegal OHV use is not expected to increase due to the construction of the 

Milford compressor station as no new roads are necessary to access the site, and the site area 

will be fenced and secured. 

Kern River does discourage OHV use of its ROW in order to prevent re-disturbance and 

damage to erosion-control structures (most commonly water bars/slope breakers) and 

vegetation and to protect biological and cultural resources. As an easement holder and not the 

landowner, Kern River cannot control all activities of other parties on its ROW. However, Kern 

River will consult with agencies and other landowners to control unauthorized OHV use where 

possible. 

In addition to restoring contours, removing temporary gates at fence lines, installing 

erosion-control structures and revegetation, Kern River will install additional OHV controls at 

intersections of existing roads or trails as directed by the land management agency or 

landowner. 
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9. REFERENCES 

Albee, Beverly J., Leila M. Shultz, Sherel Goodrich, 1988, Atlas of the Vascular Plants of Utah, 

Utah Museum of Natural History, Occasional Publication No. 7. 

Connelly, John W., Michael A. Schroeder, Alan R. Sands, and Clait E. Braun. 2000. Guidelines 

to Manage Sage Grouse Populations and their Habitats. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 28(4): 

967-985. 

Ecology and Environment, Inc. March 2002. Reclamation Plan, Utah Portion 2003 Expansion 

Project. Prepared for Kern River Gas Transmission Company. 

__________. September 2007. Right-of-Way Reclamation Monitoring Report Year 2007. 

Prepared for Kern River Gas Transmission Company. 

Herrick, J., Van Zee, J., Havstad, K., and Whitford, W. 2003. Draft: Monitoring Manual for 

Grassland, Shrubland and Savanna Ecosystems. New Mexico Agricultural Research 

Station, Jornada Experimental Range, New Mexico State University. Las Cruces, New 

Mexico. 

__________. 2005. Monitoring Manual for Grassland, Shrubland and Savanna Ecosystems. 

New Mexico Agricultural Research Station, Jornada Experimental Range, New Mexico 

State University. Las Cruces, New Mexico. 

Kramer, Pam, UDWR, 20 August 2009, personal communication with Paul E. Smith, Ecology 

and Environment, Inc. 

Stoddart, Laurence A., Arthur D. Smith, Thadias W. Box, 1975, Range Management Third 

Edition, McGraw-Hill Book Company. 

Stubbendieck, Stephan L. Hatch, & L.M. Landholt, 2003, North American Wildland Plants A 

Field Guide, University of Nebraska Press. 

Vince, Brock, USDA NRCS, 3 August 2009, personal communication with Paul E. Smith, 

Ecology and Environment, Inc. 
KERN RIVER GAS TRANSMISSION COMPANY 

Reclamation Plan 

Appendices 

Kern River Gas Transmission 

Apex Expansion Project 

November 2009 
KERN RIVER APEX EXPANSION PROJECT RECLAMATION PLAN

 Page A-1 

Appendix A 

Typical Drawings