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Statement of Existliu! Ecoloeical Condition . '\ The major tributaries for the South Platte River have an estimated 1478 acres of Russian olive infestations with a density range of 35 % to 95%. This would include the South Platte watershed in Boulder County. Boulder County has been addressing Russian olive trees on parks and open space lands since 2002. To date they have removed over 10,000 trees. This has been accomplished by using the cut stump treatment method and doing follow up treatment for re-sprouts. In addition to this work the cities of Longmont, Louisville. Lafayette and Boulder have also conducted there own successful programs of Russian olive removal. They as well have used the same methods as Boulder County. Expected conditions following tamarisk and Russian olive control projects in the South Platte watershed in Boulder County include enhanced aquatic, riparian, and floodplain habitat. The quantity and quality of these habitats would be improved, resulting in increased habitat for fish and wildlife including endangered fish species. Opportunities for environmental education, improved aesthetics, recreation, agricultural use, and improved management of flood flows would exist in project areas. Significant conservation of water resource would also result from tamarisk and Russian olive control in these watersheds. These expected changes will occur only ifall aspects of restoration are part of the solution; i.e., site specific planning and design, control, revegetation, biomass reduction, monitoring, and long-term maintenance. Beneficial impacts of restoration also include increased resilience to future stresses such . as fire, drought, climate change, or other invasive plants; creating a more self-sustaining ecosystem; providing the benefits of improved water resources; and reducing future riparian management costs. .