BLM-(Arizona), Native Plants Habitat Restoration Tucson Field Office (TFO)

a. Background:

The purpose of this project is to identify, plan, and execute landscape restoration and buffle grass control in high-value areas on IFNM. The actions will be executed under the leadership of AZNPS using volunteers, and when necessary, contract labor. Through the execution of these projects, youth groups and academic studies will be included to the full extent practicable. Every opportunity will be taken to raise public awareness and train interns, students, and environmental groups.

Focus areas on IFNM will include Ragged Top to the Watermans as well as the boulder petroglyph sites of Cocoraque and Turtle Hill.

b. Objectives:

Identification of priority projects, on-the-ground scouting, and monitoring of success.

AZNPS will work closely with BLM and other subject partners to identify priority projects based on high-value areas and urgency based on erosion severity and infestation ability to spread. Project areas will be scouted on the ground before work is defined, as the terrain is uneven and landscape disturbances and infestations are often masked by vegetation and slopes. Surveys might be required to monitor vegetative changes.

1 Landscape restoration projects
Where required, landscape restoration projects may include heavy equipment work at the outset to move large rocks and make large soil displacements. Any ground-disturbing activity will be preceded by section 106 compliance review and any necessary surveys. Construction, using hand tools, of check dams and run-off deflectors to control erosion and distribution of water. Collection and subsequent planting of seeds and fruits of native plants for the purposes of restoring native habitat and properly functioning ecosystem. Collection and distribution of slash, weed-free hay, or other BLM-approved mulching material. Monitor results, analyze success, report to BLM to inform adaptive management.

2 Buffelgrass Eradication Projects
Patches exceeding 1 acre in size will require contract herbicide spraying for at least the first pass. Follow-up herbicide sprayings of regrowth and seedlings will be made at appropriate times following rainfall events. Monitor results, analyze success, report to BLM to inform adaptive management.

3 Academic studies and on-site training
Both informal and formal academic studies will be conducted to better understand and improve effective restoration and buffle grass control methods on IFNM, with emphasis on native plant restoration. Studies will focus on BLM priorities.

4 On-site educational outreach
Tours and on-site hands-on training will be conducted for schools, youth groups, and environmental groups.