2014-10-10_PERMIT FILE - C1996083A (22)

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2.04.9 Permeability is slow, and available water capacity is high. Effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Surface runoff is rapid. The hazard of erosion from wind is slight and from water is moderate to high. Included with this soil in mapping are a few small areas of Curecanti, Cochetopa, and Bulkley soils. Also included are outcrops of interbedded sandstone and shale on the steeper slopes. Soil slips can occur in the steeper areas, especially if the area is disturbed. The native vegetation on this soil consists mainly of oakbrush, serviceberry, Arizona fescue, and western wheatgrass. Most areas of this soil are used for grazing of livestock and wildlife and for recreational purposes. Because annual precipitation is low and has poor seasonal distribution, this soil is not suited to nonirrigated crops. Where native grasses have been depleted or destroyed, however, a high degree of success can be expected from pasture plantings of nonirrigated grasses in spring, late in summer, and in fall to protect the soil from erosion and to provide grazing for livestock. Good pasture management must be practiced to maintain the grasses. Crested wheatgrass, pubescent wheatgrass, and smooth brome are adapted species. The potential plant community on this soil consists of wheatgrasses, bluegrasses, and needlegrasses. As range condition deteriorates, wheatgrasses and needlegrasses decrease, forbs and woody shrubs increase, and undesirable weeds and annual plants invade and become more abundant. This soil is used for winter range by mule deer and elk. Some important plant species which can be managed for optimum production are bitterbrush, mountainmahogany, Gambel oak, serviceberry, and elk sedge. Berry- producing shrubs are an important habitat element of black bear. This soil provides habitat for Merriam turkey, blue grouse, and band - tailed pigeon. In favorable years mature Gambel oaks produce acorns, which are used by Merriam turkey. PR -14 2.04-97- 03/14