2010-05-25_REVISION - C1981008 (5)

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The third component of the swale /drainage vegetation type, the cattail component, was not sampled since it is only a small community. This component is nearly 100 percent cattail, excepting some associated pond weeds shown in the species list (Attachment 2.04.10 -5, formerly Peabody 10 -1). Standing water occurs in the component essentially all year long. The cattail component is further described in Attachment 2.04.10 -10, formerly Peabody Addendum 11 -1. The extent and distribution of the swale /drainage type is wholly dependent upon the irrigation associated with the surrounding agricultural areas excepting any contribution from storm flows or snowmelt runoff. The type would not persist if the irrigation system was not present, as evidenced by the similar landscape in Third Park to the north where irrigation is not present. Undoubtedly, the ephemeral drainages could not support this vegetation without the supplemental water. The contribution of supplemental water from irrigation tailwater is greatest during the mid -April to October irrigation season, while ground water recharged from irrigation may contribute to seeps and bogs over a greater period. Each component of the swale /drainage type exhibits very high 10 -32 levels of productivity and cover, although the vegetation supports little utility other than wildlife habitat. The surrounding pasture and hayland vegetation offers considerably better quality forage for livestock. The boggy conditions of the swales and the occurrence of large volumes of coarse and rank standing dead vegetation probably precludes utilization of the type as well. Local landowners expressed somewhat derisive remarks about the type, indicating that it constitutes lands that could be put to greater use if the saturated conditions could be controlled. Reference to Section 2.04.11, Fish and Wildlife Resources Information, can be made for further information on the type. 5.5 Sagebrush Type (SG, SG -1, SG -2) The sagebrush vegetation type represents remnants of native rangeland have not been converted to the more characteristic intensive agricultural land uses in the area. These areas have not been converted because of topographic restrictions affecting irrigation water application and the occurrence of rock outcrops or shallow soils. The type usually occurs as small inclusions within the irrigated pasture type, within or adjacent to the swale /drainage type, or is associated with facilities and disturbed areas. The sagebrush type was delineated based on the dominance of sagebrush within these areas. (Revised October 2009) 2.04.10-53