2017-04-12_REPORT - M1980244 (6)

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CC&V: 2016 Weed Management Report dense infestations from reestablishing. Herbicide combinations will be changed from 2016 applications to minimize potential chemical resistance in plant species and chemical buildup within the soil. Chemicals will be carefully selected for optimum effectiveness on the various identified species known to be present at Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine. Habitat Management recommends treatment areas be prioritized based on the following conditions: 1) Colorado State Listed A, B, and C noxious weed species 2) Infestation level 3) Potential to spread 4) Ease of access Colorado State Listed weed species would be targeted by their designated treatment priorities assigned by the state's treatment program. Priority of treatment will also focus on each plant species' growth habits, characteristics, and potential to establish large, uncontrollable populations within a short period. During 2016 applications, six List "B" species; Canada thistle, bull thistle, Dalmatian toadflax, musk thistle, Scotch thistle, and yellow toadflax, were mapped and treated inside the property boundary. These species are of the highest priority and should be managed to contain infestations. The state does not require List "C" species; common mullein and field bindweed be controlled; however, due to the large extent of densely populated areas, treatment of common mullein is recommended. Dense infestations of common mullein are unsightly, will disrupt the reclamation process, and will out compete a desirable plant community at Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine. Infestation levels can be measured by evaluating population size and density. Infestations can then be ranked for priority of treatment based on these parameters. Extensive, dense infestations will be contained by treating the perimeter and working toward the center. Contained, isolated infestations can be targeted for eradication to prevent small infestation from growing into wide spread dense patches that may become costlier to control. The potential for infestations to spread would be determined by species impact to surrounding areas. Infestations in areas with a high potential to spread by means of water, equipment or disturbance are given the highest priority. Infestations that are sparse and isolated should also be given priority, as managing these types of infestations will maximize management efforts by preventing small problems from becoming large problems due to infestations been spread by wind and animals. Ease of access for operators and spray equipment are considered and prioritized because the ability to treat an area effectively and efficiently will increase productivity while expending a minimum amount of resources. Areas having limited access but a high potential for infestations to spread can be treated as budget and time restraints allow. A ground sterilant (Viewpoint) should be applied around the electrical substations, transformers, pipelines, buildings, and other facilities where vegetation growth poses a fire and operational hazard. Ground sterilization should take place during the early part of the growing season, or prior to vegetation establishment. Previously treated areas should be inspected, and a ground sterilant applied if needed. Herbicide rates will be evaluated, and stronger rates will be applied to areas where suppression of vegetation has not responded well to ground sterilization activities. Rates will be applied in accordance with the product label. Habitat Management, Inc. 6 December 27, 2016