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NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN 2002 - 2007 ARMAND BAYOU NATURE CENTER March 2002 www.abnc.org TABLE OF CONTENTS WALDEN We need the tonic of wildness – To wade sometimes in marshes Where the bittern and the meadow – hen lurk, and hear the booming of the snipe; to smell the whispering sedge where only some wilder and more solitary fowl builds her nest, and the mink crawls with its belly close to the ground. At the same time that we are earnest to explore and learn all things, we require that all things be mysterious and unexplorable. We can never have enough of nature. We must be refreshed by the sight of inexhaustible vigor, vast and titanic features, the sea-coast with its wrecks, the wildness with its living and its decaying trees, the thunder-cloud, and the rain which lasts three weeks and produces freshsets. we need to witness our own limits transgressed, and some life pasturing freely where we never wander 1. The Vision for Conservation 3 2. Estuarine Bayous 7 3. Mixed Hardwood Forest 11 4. Coastal Tallgrass Prairie 13 5. Wildlife Management 17 6. Cultural Resources 20 7. Management Strategies 26 8. Conservation Tools 29 9. Public Education 31 10. Budget 32 Table 33 Appendices 34 Maps Henry David Thoreau 2 “Great conservation requires a sound overlay of planning and strategy, on a foundation of emotion.” Weeks (1997) 1. THE VISION FOR CONSERVATION Successfully managing the natural and cultural resources of Armand Bayou Nature Center requires a carefully planned approach. The strategies employed must be based on sound science and natural resource management techniques. This plan incorporates these as well as prioritizes the many stewardship needs required to implement successful land management. Environmental conditions and biological unknowns will need to be resolved and management procedures may need to be adjusted as their impact upon the biological communities becomes better understood. Cooperation between numerous organizations and agencies will need to be strengthened and expanded. Balancing these many needs and goals against available funding requires that ABNC have a natural resource management plan. A. ABNC MISSION Armand Bayou Nature Center was established in 1974 as a not-for-profit Section 501(c)(3) corporation, an outgrowth of conservation efforts in an area facing imminent development (Herzberg, 1988). The mission of the Nature Center is twofold: to provide educational opportunities for people and to preserve the habitats with which ABNC has been entrusted. The strategies to be employed in accomplishing this dual mission of education and conservation are outlined in the ABNC Strategic Business Plan, 2000-2003 (ABNC, 1999). Surrounded by a highly urbanized area, ABNC manages nearly 2,500 acres of native habitat, including three major ecosystems: coastal tallgrass prairie, mixed hardwood forest, and portions of two unchannelized estuarine bayous with associated wetlands (Figure 1). Additional native habitat also survives adjacent to the Nature Center along the upper reaches of Armand Bayou. B. CORE VALUES Three core values comprise the philosophical underpinnings of the mission and strategic goals of ABNC. 1. Preservation of wilderness and its benefits Natural areas are a reservoir of biological diversity. The wild plants, animals and other organisms that are protected on these lands provide priceless and irreplaceable benefits for future generations of Texans. Wild animals and plants are the basis of our food supply, medicines, and industrial products. These natural areas provide ecological services for every citizen such as water purification, flood control and air quality improvement. They also provide critical habitat for migrating birds and spawning fish, which in turn support the local and distant economies through the fishing industry, ecotourism and other outdoor recreational opportunities. Through proper management, these habitats will promote the continuance of these species and their associated benefits. 2. Education through a living museum Secondly, these natural areas are living museums of natural and cultural history. The primary exhibits are the wild plants, animals and natural habitats. These living exhibits are explained to visitors through nature trails, displays, brochures and educational programs. This interpretation fosters an appreciation 3 and understanding of healthy natural systems while showing people how to take steps in daily living to protect and preserve the natural world. 3. Refuge for people. Finally, these natural areas are places where people can take temporary refuge from an increasingly mechanized and urbanized world. They are managed to provide a “mood of wilderness” that serves as a place for reflection, contemplation and non-consuming nature-oriented recreation and education. C. STEWARDSHIP GOALS The goals of resource management at ABNC are: • To restore and effectively manage historic vegetation, wildlife communities and cultural resources within the boundaries of ABNC; • To foster research that contributes to the knowledge of these resources and to resource management; and • To promote conservation throughout the Armand Bayou and Taylor Bayou watersheds. Stewardship also contributes to the larger goals of the Nature Center in general: • Serving as a role model to the community for the principles and values of conservation; • Establishing a planning framework for management decisions and directed future growth; • Increasing visitation and public participation in a manner that protects the natural resources; and • Ensuring financial stability. D. MANAGEMENT PLAN The purpose of the ABNC Natural Resource Management Plan is to ensure that the Nature Center has a clearly defined direction for resource preservation, management and visitor use. The Plan articulates the management philosophy to be followed and provides the blueprint for future management decisions. The Plan includes estimates of manpower and financial costs, time action schedule with milestones, a monitoring process to observe the success of the management program and the identification of new problems and objectives. The dynamic nature of the biological communities and our growing knowledge of proper management strategies mandates that this Plan be an evolving document. The Plan will require periodic review and adjustments. The initial focus will be on the data needs and inventory design at ABNC. In the future, the Plan should shift to a greater emphasis on analysis and evaluation. Then problems, solutions and implementation strategies can be assessed. Ultimately, the Plan is expected to be more predictive, holistic and outward looking (beyond ABNC boundaries). E. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES To accomplish the stewardship goals of Armand Bayou Nature Center, the following or strategic objectives are critical: 1. Habitat restoration will endeavor to aid the natural systems to become as ecologically sustainable as possible. Because of large-scale changes to the local landscape and environment, it is not possible to restore the bayou and adjacent ecosystems to their original historic condition. Rather, management activities will endeavor to return these habitats to their highest ecological capacity, given the present natural, political, social and economic constraints (Prichard, 1999). 4 2. Stewardship staff will recognize and address the lack of baseline data to guide management efforts. ABNC lacks site-specific data on various environmental aspects of the natural resources. Recognizing resource limitations, staff will assess their data needs, set priorities, and establish a multiyear data acquisition program that will provide a base for further refinement of the Natural Resource Management Plan. 3. Effective management will depend on the development of a comprehensive monitoring system. Nearly every aspect of natural resource management will require some type of field monitoring, whether it be monitoring of water quality, wetlands status, deer population or distribution of exotic species. Stewardship staff and the Executive Director need appropriate, reliable information to evaluate problems and measure progress. The Management Plan should contain a conceptual design of an efficient, multi-purpose method for monitoring environmental conditions at ABNC. Stewardship staff should also prepare periodic status reports of preserve conditions and management results. 4. Adequate information about ABNC ecosystems will be collected for making management decisions. There is a need to establish a long-term inventory and monitoring program at ABNC. The current state of the natural resources must be established as baseline data; then quantitative and qualitative changes must be identified over time. Only through a comprehensive inventory and monitoring program can adequate information be made available for sound decision making. 5. Resources are managed to interpret the natural and cultural heritage of Armand Bayou. The bayou and associated ecosystems have evolved through the complex interplay between climate, geology, grazing, fire, and human activities. Management activities will take the interpretation of these elements for the public into consideration. The preservation of vistas on the prairie, for example, will help visitors experience the feeling of openness of the landscape. Some management activities might be conducted specifically to enhance the visitor experience and portions of the preserve visible to the public may have higher restoration priorities. 6. ABNC will strengthen and maintain effective partnerships. Many issues, such as water quality, biodiversity and habitat loss, can be addressed effectively only through partnership efforts. The adjacent communities, resource agencies, regulatory agencies, local businesses and industry can provide valuable resources and expertise. Accommodating diverse viewpoints and interests, and sharing information, will be very important for the successful, long-term management of the preserve. 7. Effective conservation and education efforts will need to extend beyond the boundaries of ABNC. Working with city, county and state officials to preserve additional habitat along Armand Bayou is critical to the long-term health of the ABNC preserve. In addition, education of local lawmakers and communities will help minimize additional adverse environmental impacts to the preserve. F. RESTORATION MODEL The goal of restoration is to aid each of the ecosystems at ABNC to reach its ecological climax, defined as that point at which the ecosystems become a stable, self-sustaining community. Climax communities are in an advanced stage of ecological succession and usually have a diverse array of species and ecological niches. Climax systems are characterized by the ability to capture and use energy and cycle critical nutrients more efficiently than simpler, immature communities (Miller, 1994) G. MANAGEMENT PHILOSOPHY Long-term natural resource management at ABNC is based on an adaptive planning framework in which ecosystems are regularly monitored and techniques adjusted when necessary to meet restoration goals. Major components of the adaptive approach include: 5 • • • • • Collection of baseline information (e.g., inventories and mapping); Assessment of the condition of major community types and sensitive species and communities; Integration of baseline information and assessment results into resource management planning; Scheduled monitoring of condition and management treatment effects; and Analysis of monitoring data and formulation of adjusted management recommendations based on the results. Several assumptions are key to this adaptive approach, including: • Native plant and wildlife communities are dynamic over time in terms of spatial distribution and species composition. Management planning needs to consider and allow for these biological dynamics. • The preservation of native plant and wildlife communities is dependent upon the preservation and management of natural processes (such as hydrologic regime, fire, wildlife activity) and the protection of these communities from highly competitive non-native species. 6 2. ESTUARINE BAYOUS We call upon the waters that rim the earth, horizon to horizon, that flow in our rivers and streams, that fall upon our gardens and streams and we ask that they Teach us, and show us the way. Chinook Blessing Litany Armand Bayou and Taylor Bayou lie at the heart of the ABNC. These two water bodies are estuarine streams, receiving inputs of tidal energy as well as larval and juvenile forms of marine life from Galveston Bay. They also receive substantial inputs of freshwater, sediment and nutrients from the surrounding upland areas and tributaries. Significant environmental impacts are evident on both bayous. The scope and scale of the needed restoration and management activities represents a critical challenge to ABNC. “Armand Bayou will prove to be a difficult environmental management problem compared to other potential coastal preserves. The key aspect of the problem is that environmental rehabilitation, rather than protection, is a likely objective.” (Mitchell & Windsor 1991) A. CURRENT STATUS AT ABNC Armand Bayou is a meandering estuarine stream some thirteen miles in length, emptying through a narrow mouth into Clear Lake, a tertiary bay of the Galveston Bay system. Its watershed encompasses 63.5 square miles (40,647 acres) through urban and suburban development, NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the Bayport petrochemical complex. Salinity is usually stratified and highly variable, becoming increasingly fresh upstream. After large rainfall events, salinities may be depressed into the fresh to weakly brackish range (0-5 ppt) through much of its length however, during dry summer periods, salinity can reach 20 ppt. Myers (1995) divided the length of Armand Bayou into four zones, based upon the physical and biological characteristics of the stream. Taylor Bayou extends approximately four miles in length, approximately half of which lies within the boundaries of ABNC. Like Armand Bayou, it empties into Clear Lake through a constricted mouth, but also has a secondary connection at its head directly to Galveston Bay via a man-made channel to the Bayport Shipping Terminal. Salinity is generally higher than that of Armand Bayou and remains consistent through its length, suggesting that tidal influences are being introduced at both ends. Armand and Taylor Bayous have changed drastically during the past three decades due to a number of environmental impacts, including: subsidence, loss of wetlands, poor water quality and the expansion of invasive exotic species. 1. Habitat Loss The removal of groundwater in the area has resulted in the lowering of the elevation of the surface of the land. Between 1906 and 1987, the land surface subsided as much as nine feet along the northern perimeter of the watershed and 5 feet in the south (HGCSD, 1987). Subsidence on Armand and Taylor Bayou has altered the historic drainage and tidal regimens, increased the expanse of open water, and drowned their contiguous emergent wetlands. The lower portion of Armand Bayou has changed from a wetland-bordered freshwater stream to a brackish tidal lake nearly devoid of wetlands. All of the 275 acres of wetlands present in 1956 have been lost; replacement wetlands, of a different nature, amount to 24 acres. In addition, submerged grasses that once grew on the shallow bottoms have largely disappeared. This loss of habitat has had an impact on biodiversity within Armand Bayou and Taylor Bayou. 7 2. Water Quality Armand Bayou is the receiving stream for a watershed of approximately 60 square miles. Storm water from the cities of Pasadena, Houston, Deer Park and La Porte enter the waterway after major rainfalls, contributing pollutants such as pesticides, fertilizers, metals and litter. Armand Bayou is listed on the Clean Water Act Section 303D List for impaired water bodies due to elevated bacteria levels and low dissolved oxygen levels (TNRCC, 2000). Summer months typically include elevated populations of plankton and algae in the water column. Sewage treatment plants along the bayou may contribute to the nutrient load and freshwater inflow. Armand Bayou is also notable for its low oxygen caused by algae stimulated by eutrophication, or excess nutrients, though it is not judged to contain excess nutrients (McFarlane 1991). 3. Exotic Species There are a number of invasive and destructive exotic species in Armand Bayou. Several wetland plants occur in fringe marsh areas and successfully out-compete native plant populations. Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is of particular concern due to its high growth rate and free-floating form. In addition to displacing native vegetation, water hyacinth may also impede navigation and increase the loss of oxygen in the water column. Other invasive aquatic species present within the bayou includes elephant ear, water lettuce and alligator weed. Additionally, there are exotic animal species in Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve. Two of the species have created challenges in marsh restoration efforts. Nutria and grass carp are herbivores that have a direct negative impact on reintroduced marsh plantings. These species have mandated extensive efforts to construct exclosures around restoration areas to prevent loss. Tilapia has also been reported although its impact has not yet been determined B. ARMAND BAYOU COASTAL PRESERVE The lower portion of Armand Bayou, from Mud Lake to the upper limit of tidal influence (at approximately stream mile 7.9), an area of about 300 acres, has been designated as the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve. Established through Federal and State actions pursuant to the Water Quality Act of 1987 and the Texas Legislature’s Unique Coastal Lands Declaration, the Coastal Preserve arose from the desire to protect unique and fragile natural areas on coastal public lands. This designation affords special protection by making Armand Bayou a state preserve and declaring it a state scientific area. The Texas Coastal Preserve program is operated under an agreement between Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the Texas General Land Office (GLO). The GLO owns and manages state owned submerged lands for Texas. Under the Coastal Preserve Program, TWPD leases the preserves from the GLO. A management plan for the preserve has been adopted by both agencies. ABNC is noted in the Plan as a cooperating entity. ABNC is an integral partner to TPWD in implementing the management goals of the Coastal Preserve Management Plan. Agencies such as the Railroad Commission of Texas, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Marine Fisheries Service, the Texas Department of Health and many others, retain independent authority over actions that could directly impact the coastal preserves – wither from within or from outside the preserve boundary. 8 C. RESTORATION MODEL Recognizing that decades of human activity in and around the bayou have had significant ecological and topological impacts, an historic restoration model for the bayou is unrealistic. Over 90% of the historic emergent marsh has been destroyed due to subsidence and significant hydrological changes in salinity. We can never restore the waterways to precolonized condition. The bayou does have an opportunity for water quality improvement, marsh restoration, erosion control and exotic species control. A preliminary environmental inventory has been completed (McFarland, 1991). In addition, a review of the various agencies’ roles has also been undertaken (Mitchell & Windsor, 1991). A management plan for the Coastal Preserve has been approved by TPWD and GLO (Sheffield et al., 1996). D. MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES Four management objectives have been identified for the restoration and preservation of the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve. 1. Facilitate Law Enforcement In order to better preserve wildlife and the habitats that support them, heightened law enforcement efforts are required. As described in the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve Management Plan, Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Wardens are the designated enforcement entity for such matters. TPWD wardens may also enforce the no-gasoline-motor ordinance written by both the City of Pasadena and Harris County. It is critical that this ordinance be enforce to minimize the wildlife disturbances, soil erosion and pollutants on the bayou. 2. Water Quality Armand Bayou faces a number of water quality issues. As urban and industrial settings expand around the borders of the preserve, these issues will undoubtedly increase. Both point and non-point sources of pollution need to be addressed. 3. Exotic Species As with all landscapes on the preserve suffers from a number of invasive non-native species. These have the capacity to alter the hydrology of the bayou, displace native plant communities, degrade the ecological values of the bayou and impede navigation. An exotic species management plan for Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve has been developed and is currently being implemented. 4. Marsh Restoration Significant marsh habitat has been lost due to the effects of subsidence. Between 1950 and 1980 elevations along the waterway have been altered by as much as nine feet. This drastic drop in topography has destroyed over 90% of the original emergent wetlands along the bayou. Recognizing the critical importance of these wetlands as habitat for finfish, invertebrates and waterfowl, wetland restoration effort is a high priority restoration action. E. STRATEGIES AND PRESCRIPTIONS 1. Water Quality Armand Bayou has several growing water quality issues including nutrient loading, hypoxia and storm water debris. Nutrient loading and hypoxia are interconnected problems. It is suspected that nutrients enter the waterway by non-point sources such as storm water from urban lawns and golf courses. This storm water carries excess fertilizer into the bayou. Additionally, wastewater effluent contains nitrates and phosphates found in laundry detergent. The large amounts of available nutrients fuel an explosion of algae and plankton populations in the bayou. These diurnal populations peak during the daylight 9 hours and crash during nightfall creating a daily cycle of oxygen saturation and depletion. A public watershed education campaign could help minimize overuse of fertilizer in the watershed. Additional watershed partners, including TPWD and TNRCC, may further initiate studies and implement programs to improve degraded water quality conditions in the bayou. ABNC can participate by serving as a liaison with the local community and communicating to the public via volunteers and through the education program. 2. Marsh Restoration Marsh restoration efforts began on Armand Bayou in 1993. Since that time significant areas of both fringe marsh and larger scale marsh have been created. Fringe marsh restoration may be achieved by identifying a restoration site with appropriate intertidal elevation, installing protective fencing to exclude herbivory and planting appropriate vegetation. Plant species have historically included smooth cordgrass and California bulrush. Larger scale marsh restoration projects have been accomplished by utilizing dredged sediments. These sediments are placed in areas in the bayou to create appropriate water depth to support intertidal marsh vegetation. After sediments have consolidated, the area is surrounded by protective marsh fencing and planted with appropriate vegetation. To date, only one such dredge project, totaling just over six acres, has been attempted on the bayou. This project has been highly successful due in large part to the assembly of the interagency task force that was created to oversee the project. In addition to creating valuable habitat, marsh creation is also an effective tool to minimize the effects of erosion. 3. Exotic Species Control Exotic species that threaten the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve include alligator weed, water lettuce, elephant ear and water hyacinth. Of these species, water hyacinth currently poses the single greatest threat to the ecology of the Coastal Preserve. In 1997 ABNC received funding from the Galveston Bay Estuary Program to develop an exotic species management plan for the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve. Additional funding from this grant exists in a restricted account for the long-term management of invasive exotic plant species on the bayou. The plan calls for ABNC to monitor invasive plant populations and organize public meetings regarding invasive plant species. ABNC will coordinate with TPWD to implement control strategies. TPWD personnel recommend the application of the herbicide 2,4-D amine. For further details, see Exotic Species Management Plan for Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve, Appendix B. 10 3. MIXED HARDWOOD FOREST A. CURRENT STATUS AT ABNC Armand Bayou Nature Center manages approximately 1100 acres of Consider the life of trees. riparian forest bordering along Armand and Taylor Bayous. The Aside from the axe, what trees acquire from man is canopy of the forest is dominated by hardwood species, primarily oak inconsiderable. What man and elm. This riparian oak/elm forest is at a climax stage of plant may acquire from the trees is succession. Dominant understory species include yaupon and immeasurable. From their arrowwood vibernum. Unlike bottomland hardwood forests, the ABNC mute forms there flows a forest is considered a coastal flatwoods. Whereas overbank flooding poise, in silence; a lovely inundates bottomland hardwoods, coastal flatwoods are flooded by sound and motion in response precipitation and slow runoff. The forest is typically flooded with to wind. What peace comes to winter rainfall for five to six months of the year. Numerous those aware of the voice and depressional areas in the forest serve to retain rainwater, minimize bearing of trees! downstream flooding, improve water quality and provide habitat to many species of wildlife. Mast production attracts a wide variety of Cedric Wright wildlife into the forest. Acorns and other forest fruits attract an abundance of resident and migratory birds that depend upon the forest for resting, feeding and breeding habitat. B. CLIMAX FOREST CRITERIA Urbanization and logging have virtually eliminated all relict tracts of unaltered coastal flatwoods in the Houston area. No model of forest restoration has been developed. C. MAINTENANCE STRATEGY Unlike fire dependant grassland systems, forests are efficient in nutrient cycling and typically need far less active management. Objective 1: Control Exotic Species The Chinese tallow tree is the single most invasive species in ABNC forests. This tree quickly colonizes wet areas and forest edges and out-competes most native species. Windstorms and hurricanes often fell canopy hardwoods, creating openings that encourage tallow invasion. In forested landscapes chemical application is the tool of choice for tallow control. Basel and cut stump application are the preferred application methods, allowing for a high degree of accuracy with minimal impact to non-target species. Other invasive forest plant species include Chinese privet, Japanese honeysuckle and trifoliate orange. The overall impacts from these species are minimal compared to those of the Chinese tallow. Objective 2: Reintroduce Native Climax Forest Vegetation The historic species mix is unknown in coastal flatwoods. It is believed that many historic species may be absent from the ecosystem. A turn-of-the-century sawmill is located on the preserve and is likely responsible for the removal of commercially valuable species. Select species could be harvested from areas slated for development or purchased from local nurseries. 11 Objective 3: Wildlife Monitoring Certain wildlife species have the capacity to create severe adverse impacts on the plant community. White-tailed deer populations may pose a threat to certain plant species in the forest. To better qualify these impacts, deer exclosures and plant vegetation transect lines will be established in the forest settings. Deer monitoring efforts will include spotlight counts, herd composition surveys and habitat impact studies. ABNC Stewardship Volunteers will assist with scheduled surveys. Spotlight surveys will be scheduled during dry months to allow vehicle access to transect lines. Months targeted for spotlight surveys are June, July, August, September, and October. For more information, see the deer census book located in the stewardship office. Objective 4: Forest Health Assessment In order to track the state of the ABNC forested tracts, a forest health assessment study should be implemented. This assessment should include the species composition, canopy density, understory and herbaceous community, age-structure, regeneration and basal area. This data will be compared to reference that are considered to be healthy. 12 4. COASTAL TALLGRASS PRAIRIE O SWEET IRRATIONAL WORSHIP Wind and a bobwhite And the afternoon sun. By ceasing to question the sun I have become light, Bird and wind. My leaves sing. I am earth, earth. All these lighted things Grow from my heart. A tall spare pine Stands like initial of my first Name when I had one. When I had a spirit, When I was on fire When this valley was Made out of fresh air You spoke my name In naming your silence: O sweet, irrational worship. I am earth, earth. My heart’s love Bursts with hay and f lowers. I am a lake of blue air In which my own appointed place Field and valley Stand reflected. I am earth, earth Out of my grass heart Rises the bobwhite Out of my nameless weeds His foolish worship. The coastal tallgrass prairie, which extends along the coastal plain of south-central Texas and southwestern Louisiana, represents the southernmost extension of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. Once covering at least 9 million acres (See Map 3), today more than 99% of this important habitat has been lost to agriculture, range improvement and urbanization. The remainder is highly fragmented and severely threatened by exotic species and development. The coastal tallgrass prairie ecosystem is currently listed as “imperiled globally” by The Nature Conservancy and the Texas Natural Heritage Program. The World Wildlife Fund lists the conservation status as “critical” (Ricketts 1999). A. CURRENT STATUS AT ABNC Armand Bayou Nature Center preserves one of the most extensive holdings of coastal tallgrass prairie in the lower Galveston Bay watershed. Currently, 645 acres are actively managed, about 70% of the long-range goal of 900 acres within the current boundaries. All of the prairies at ABNC have been altered to some degree, initially by cattle grazing and agriculture. The greatest impact however has been the result of the recent expansion of the Chinese tallow tree (Sapium sebiferum), which can grow into a closed canopy forest and severely limit native prairie plant diversity. Significant restoration activities at ABNC have begun to reduce the acreage impacted by this invasive species and has also led to an increase in management activities to maintain their condition. The land preserved within ABNC includes four main tracts: Armand West, Armand East, Taylor West and Taylor East. Each of these tracts is divided into management units (Maps 4a ,b & c). The current system was based on the original grazing cells set up in 1994 and subsequently expanded to incorporate newly restored areas. In this report, the management units are expanded to include all prairie areas, regardless Thomas Merton of current condition. The size of each unit is limited by the maximum acreage authorized (by Harris County Pollution Control) to be burned at one time. Current restoration status, future goals and management prescriptions with timetables are shown in Table 1 (page 32). B. CLIMAX PRAIRIE CRITERIA For the Houston region, four species of grasses are considered to be the primary indicators of a climax prairie: Eastern Gamma Grass (Tripsacum dactyloides), Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans), Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), and Switchgrass (Panicum virginiana). A climax prairie also maintains a maximum level of species diversity, due in part to minor changes in soil and hydrology as well as occasional disturbances such as grazing and fire. Ultimately, restoration activities are intended 13 to bring each unit to its natural stable condition, from which point routine management activities can be utilized to maintain their ongoing viability. C. PRAIRIE MODEL Approximately 1% of the historic tallgrass prairie remains. A restoration model must be made from the few local relict tracts available. The best local example of an historic prairie is found near the headwaters of Armand Bayou located off Spencer Highway in Pasadena. The site is slated for development in spring of 2002, thus photo documentation of plant species needs to be made as quickly as possible. Additionally, plant relocation efforts should focus on salvaging several species of rare plants. These plants will be installed along the ABNC Prairie Trail to benefit public appreciation of this living museum. This relatively small site (approximately 30 acres) hosts examples of climax prairie plant assemblages of the Armand Bayou watershed. These unique climax species, including American aloe (Manfreda virginica) spartina pectinata, sedge (cyperus cephalanthus) and rattlesnake master (Eryngium yuccifolium) confirm the area is indeed a relict climax prairie. The site’s surface coverage is dominated by Eastern gamma grass, big bluestem, switchgrass and Indian grass, further indication of climax prairie. A complete list of the site is attached as Appendix E. and may be referenced for future restoration activities. The restoration model at ABNC will mimic these remaining climax tracts, recognizing that these climax species were likely the dominant species in historic time. Prairie management efforts will target the control of highly competitive plant species and promote the expansion of desirable climax species. D. RESTORATION STRATEGY Bringing the ABNC prairies from tallow tree forests to grasslands requires several stages. An integrated strategy using herbicidal removal and plant reintroduction has proven effective. Stage 1: Unrestored Prairie, Dominated by Dense Stands of Chinese Tallow Trees No management activities are undertaken within these areas. Stage 2: Apply Herbicide to Tallow Trees Restoration begins by attempting to kill the tallow trees through the application of cut-stump, foliar or basal application of herbicide. Applications are accomplished during the growing season, when the systemic chemical can be absorbed by the tree for maximum effectiveness. Stage 3: Remove Standing Tallow Trees One or two years after the application of the herbicide, the standing trees are removed by manual or mechanical methods such as mechanized chipping equipment. All stumps are to be taken down to ground level and large logs removed to limit future damage to mowing equipment later. Stage 4: Reintroduce Native Climax Prairie Plants Planting additional climax species will augment natural recruitment of native plant species. The majority of these new plants will be salvaged from nearby areas slated for development or propagated at the ABNC. To ensure that genotypes are adapted to regional conditions, introduced plants will be obtained from local sources whenever possible. Once prairies begin to mature, they will become a valuable source for local genotype seeds for use in other ABNC restoration projects. Stage 5: Restored Prairie, Requiring Regular Maintenance Following woody plant removal and the reintroduction of native plant species, the prairie will be maintained by a combination of shredding, haying and prescribed burning to suppress the invasion of woody species and promote diversity of climax plant species. These strategies will be employed on a one to three year frequency in each prairie management unit. This frequency may be modified as the 14 database expands and the understanding of the plant community response to management methods is better understood. For further details, see Table 1. E. MAINTENANCE STRATEGY Once restoration is completed within a management unit, regular maintenance will be required on an on-going basis. Maintenance efforts focus on the following objectives: Objective 1: Control Exotic Species Chinese tallow trees will never be entirely eradicated from the ABNC; however, this species can be controlled with regular maintenance. Mowing and controlled burns will limit growth of young trees, but some areas may require occasional spot treatment with herbicide. In addition, other exotic invasive plants are present within the prairies at ABNC, including Vassey Grass (Paspalum urvillei), Jerusalem Thorn (Parkisonia aculeate), McCartney Rose (Rose braeteata), Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), Bermuda Grass (Cynodan dactylon) and Brazilian Vervain (Verbena brasiliensis). Though having less impact than Chinese tallow trees, developing strategies for their control is an additional research need. Objective 2: Control Native Woody Vegetation When grazing ceased on the ABNC prairies, the most obvious change in the plant community structure was expansion of native shrubs, primarily Baccharis, wax myrtle and persimmon. Without active management, the majority of the grassland became infested with brush while prairie climax grasses began to decrease, replaced by subclimax grasses and forbs. The introduction of burning and mowing regimes has proven effective in controlling brush, maintaining the delicate balance between woody species and prairie grasses. Objective 3: Introduce Disturbances to Encourage Diversity Prairies are adapted to enduring occasional natural disturbances in their environment, resulting in an ecosystem with diverse plant and animal communities. The use of fire and mowing, in addition to controlling woody vegetation, contributes these needed disturbances. The frequency and type of disturbances have been outlined in Table 1. Several of these prairie management units are areas that have recently been recovered from Chinese tallow domination, contain a significant amount of invasive woody species and require the frequent use of prescribed fire. Other units are located near smoke sensitive receptors such as homes or roadways and have been targeted as mow units. Other units (E1 – E10) are research areas where ABNC is collecting data relating to specific management strategies. The data collected from these research areas will be used to direct future scheduling of disturbance frequencies and type. Objective 4: Reintroduce Native Climax Prairie Plants A component to restoration management is the introduction of native forbs and grasses. Due to grazing impacts from past management activities, species may be missing from large portions of the prairie. Introducing these species to ABNC prairies will provide sources for future prairie restoration efforts as well as promote coastal prairie plant diversity. F. MONITORING Monitoring vegetative responses and habitat change is critical for making proper land management decisions. Based on the prairie management objectives outlined above, the following monitoring systems will be employed regularly and results recorded. All documents will be kept in the stewardship office permanent records. 15 1. Photo Points At least one permanent photo point will be established within each management unit. A digital image from each point will be taken twice per year, during the month of May and September. 2. Vegetation Transects Eleven management units of the Armand East Tract are currently being mowed or burned with specific frequencies (Table 1) in an effort to better understand how management techniques affect prairie plant communities. Twenty-eight vegetation transect lines have been established within these units to gather data on plant responses. These transects will be run twice per year, during the months of May and November, to record the presence or absence of 36 indicator species (see protocol Appendix C). 3. Field Log Books Each stewardship staff will routinely maintain a field log book in which they record general comments relating to their observations of the prairie plant and animal communities. Notes may record unusual occurrences, natural disturbances, weather or other changes observed while conducting routine maintenance activities. These log books will be kept in the stewardship office. 4. Chinese Tallow Control Plot Management Unit E14 (four acres) has been retained as a control plot of mature Chinese Tallow trees for ongoing research on the impact of this species upon native prairies. This plot may also be used for educational purposes. The size of the plot will be reduced to one acre to reduce the seed source and minimize a visual barrier of the prairie. No restoration or prairie management will occur within this unit. 5. Transplant Survival Rates A sample of each major transplanting of reintroduced native climax prairie plants will be tagged and monitored for one year, to determine survivability rates. Method of transplanting, date transplanted and location will be recorded in the field logbooks. 6. Research Studies ABNC will encourage research studies from universities by providing access and support research activities that evaluate management methods as well as ecological principles. 16 5. WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT Love animals. God has given them the rudiments of thought and joy untroubled. Do not trouble their happiness, don’t work against God’s intent .Man, do not pride yourself on superiority to animals; they are without sin, and you, with your greatness, defile earth by your presence on it, and leave the traces of your foulness after you – alas, it is true of almost every one of us. Fydor Dostoyevsky It is becoming increasingly important to manage certain native and nonnative animal species in the Preserve. The dietary habits and behavior of some have an adverse effect on plant and animal communities. Other species populations have been lost to the preserve and reintroduction programs need to be implemented. A. RESIDENT SPECIES 1. White-tailed Deer Deer are one of the largest animals on the preserve. According to TPWD formula of one deer per 15 acres, the preserve should support a deer population of about 160-170 animals. Populations are currently much higher, with estimates of over 450 animals ranging on the acreage contiguous with Armand Bayou. This population level has created severe habitat impacts, most notably to the plant community. Repeated grazing from a herd this size places constant pressure on specific plant species, creating noticeable browse lines, topiary plant formations and eradicating certain plant species. Over time, plant diversity is being minimized, thus lowering habitat value for all species. Currently there are four potential deer management options available to ABNC for the control of deer populations. They include contraception, relocation, regulated in-house harvest and no human intervention. Each method has associated benefits and liabilities. Relocation efforts were conducted in 2000 with minimal success. Relocation could potentially produce better results with more trapping days, volunteer involvement and more traps. The Stewardship Committee recommends that the following steps be taken to begin addressing the overpopulation of white-tailed deer at ABNC and their consequent habitat damage: 1. Allow trapping and relocation of deer by authorized parties whenever possible. 2. Begin education of the membership, volunteers and community regarding deer population issues and habitat impacts. 3. Establish partnerships with other agencies, organizations and local landowners to assist in the education efforts. 4. Continue research on population trends, habitat impacts and management options. 5. Investigate forest restoration options. 6. Forgo all lethal methods of deer control at this time. 1. Predator Base Large predators play an important role in managing wildlife populations. ABNC has several such animals, including coyote, bobcat, and alligator, that have such an impact. A monitoring protocol and methodology should be established and implemented to understand the predator-prey relationship and the impact on the deer population. 17 2. Feral Hogs These large mammals were once domestic pigs that have escaped captivity and are free ranging on the preserve. Often reaching weights of 300 pounds, they have far-reaching impacts on the preserve. They have the ability to produce large numbers of offspring and reproduce several times a year. Large fields are uprooted or “tilled” by these animals, devastating grasslands and wooded areas. Feral hogs are also known to feed on reptiles, amphibians and ground nesting birds and their eggs. Successful trapping and removal efforts have virtually eradicated the species from the preserve but continued monitoring of ground conditions for signs of the animal is essential to manage populations should they reappear. It is critical to remove all animals before reproduction and dispersion of the species reestablishes a presence on the property. 3. Feral Cats Domestic housecats are often dumped or escape captivity to roam on the preserve. There is overwhelming evidence that predation from domestic and feral cats is a significant factor in the decline of songbirds and small mammal populations in Texas and the rest of the country. California’s Point Reyes Bird Observatory newsletter reported that there are approximately 55 million feral and domestic cats in the US and, based on a very conservative daily kill ratio, calculated that these cats kill 4.4 million birds DAILY. That is 1.6 BILLION birds per year. (Audubon Magazine, Nov.- Dec. 1995). Houston area Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition estimates that approximately 11% of the 35,000 injured or orphaned birds seen in 1995 were the victims of cat attacks. Further monitoring and control efforts are warranted to determine impacts to ABNC wildlife. 4. Fire Ants This South American native first appeared in Mobile, Alabama in 1918. Since its introduction, it has spread quickly, now infesting approximately 26 million acres in 11 states. The species is aggressive and has a painful sting. Fire ants will kill other insect species in the area, including other ants. They also prey on numerous species of vertebrates including reptiles, amphibians and nesting ground birds. Fire ants reproduce quickly to form new colonies and are very difficult to control. Even when eradication is successful in an area, it is likely to be quickly re-colonized unless ongoing control efforts continue. Further monitoring and control efforts are warranted to determine the impact to ABNC wildlife. 5. Nutria Nutria are members of the rodent family that originate in South America. This large aquatic rat was introduced to the Gulf Coast on Louisiana’s Avery Island as a potential furbearer. Nutria reach sexual maturity at three to six months of age and may have up to three litters per year. Litters consist of four to five offspring who begin eating vegetation within hours of birth. Nutria are responsible for considerable damage to wetland vegetation along Armand Bayou and are damaging to marsh restoration efforts along the Gulf Coast. In 1991, the US population was estimated at more than 10 million. So far, efforts to reduce nutria populations through bounties, fur cooperatives and meat marketing have been largely unsuccessful. 6. Grass Carp The grass carp, sometimes called the white amur, was introduced to the US in 1963 by the US Fish and Wildlife Service as a biological control for invasive aquatic vegetation. It is a native to eastern China and the former Soviet Union. Grass carp are the largest member of the minnow family, typically reaching weights of 60 pounds, although fish reaching weights of 400 pounds have been confirmed. They have a voracious appetite and at peak feeding seasons a grass carp will consume 300% of its 18 body weight per day. The fish are responsible for wide-scale marsh destruction and habitat modification in the Galveston Bay system. Monitoring grass carp populations is difficult and there are no known successful control methods for this species. B. NATIVE SPECIES RE-INTRODUCTION 1. Eastern Woodland Turkey In 1994, sixteen Eastern Woodland Turkeys were released onto the preserve through a cooperative effort with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the National Wild Turkey Federation. The birds have been sighted regularly and there is evidence of successful reproduction. Early summer firebreak mowing near the woodland edges facilitates easy migration routes for the young birds. Further monitoring of the species is warranted. 2. Northern Bobwhite Bobwhite, also known as bobwhite quail, once populated the grasslands and forest edges of ABNC. Bobwhite were sighted on the Taylor Lake property in 1998, but have not been sighted along Armand Bayou for many years. It is suspected that several factors have contributed to the loss of bobwhite on the preserve. A lack of migration routes through dense prairie vegetation and high predator populations may contribute to declined quail populations. Bobwhite predators include raptors, raccoons, opossum, skunks, feral cats, bobcat, fox, coyotes, snakes and cotton rats. All theses species are present on the preserve. The predicament of managing the bobwhite may include managing predator populations as well. As conservationist Aldo Leopold noted, “If a habitat can’t support game in spite of predators, it simply isn’t good game habitat.” Further research is needed to determine the feasibility of bobwhite re-introduction at ABNC. C. WILDLIFE FEEDING The routine feeding of wildlife (other than at bird feeders) creates problems for both the wildlife and humans involved. It can alter normal wildlife behaviors, cause disease and death to certain wildlife species and encourages wildlife into close proximity to humans, creating adverse or dangerous situations. Visitors will be informed that wildlife feeding is prohibited. 19 6. CULTURAL RESOURCES We who have lost our sense and our senses – our touch, our smell, our vision of who we are; we who frantically force and press all things, without rest for body or spirit, hurting our earth and injuring ourselves: we call a halt. We want rest. We need to rest and allow the earth to rest. We need to reflect and to rediscover the mystery that lives in us, that is the ground of every unique expression of life, the source of the fascination that calls all things to communion. We declare a Sabbath, a space of quiet: for simply being and letting be, for recovering the great, forgotten truths; for learning how to live again. U.N. Environmental Sabbath Program In addition to managing the natural resources at ABNC, the Stewardship Department is also responsible for preserving all known archeological sites on the property. This includes properly documenting sites and features in an effort to minimize impact that might be produced by trails, buildings, roads or erosion. These sites may also provide educational opportunities where appropriate. Interest in archeology of the area began with the extensive field surveys conducted by the Houston Archeological Society in the late 1960’s. Ultimately, the concentration of prehistoric and historic sites found along Armand Bayou was designated as the Armand Bayou Archeological District on the National Park Services’ National Register of Historic Places. Currently, twenty-three sites or features are currently identified within the boundaries of ABNC. A. PREHISTORIC SITES C. GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS 1. Conduct additional surveying and research. While a preliminary archeological survey was conducted for the purpose of this report, a more detailed examination of the preserve is warranted. Further investigations will, no doubt, locate additional prehistoric and historic sites. Additional historical research will also provide context for known sites and provide hints for other possible farm sites thought to be on the property. This additional work could form the nucleus of a more extensive Cultural Resource Report for Armand Bayou Nature Center. 2. Record all sites on GIS Each archeological site should be located with a Global Positioning System and entered into the ABNC Geographical Information System. 3. Add Educational Components Students from the University of Houston – Clear Lake archeology department are an excellent resource for conducting additional surveys. In addition, some components could be completed by youth as part of class or merit badge workshops. Interpretative signage, where appropriate, would help inform visitors of historical significance of archeological sites. 20 7. MANAGEMENT TOOLS “If the land mechanisms as a whole is good, then every part of it is good, whether we understand it or not. If the biota, in the course of eons, has built something we do not understand, then who but a fool would discard seemingly useful parts? To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering.” The protection of Armand Bayou involves a broad array of pertinent entities and the surrounding community. PLANNING ZONES The purpose of designating management planning zones is to help preserve the habitats that are under our care and to clarify land use practices on the preserve. As described in the ABNC Master Plan, three separate planning zones have been identified (see Map 1 for details). These include the Core Area, Class II Preserve and Class I Preserve. Core Area This zone is identified as having the most human presence and impact. Approximately 30 acres surrounding the Admissions Building, Education Building, Greenhouse and Farm Area are identified as the Core Area. Aldo Leopold Class II Preserve Class II Preserve area is identified as an area that will have minimal human impact. This zone of approximately 160 acres includes the trail systems that run through the forest and prairie. The Karankawa Trail, Martyn Trail, Martyn Trail Viewing Platform, Marsh Trail, Lady Bird Trail and Prairie Viewing Platform are included in this planning zone. Class I Preserve This area is designated as a managed wilderness area. Human access is restricted in these areas to promote usage by wildlife species that require wild lands. No trails, roads or human impacts will occur on Class I Preserve. This 2250-acre zone includes portions of the East Bank, all of the West Bank and Taylor Lake Preserves. A. PRIORITY RANKING OF MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES The goal of restoration activities is to return ABNC landscapes to as close to historic condition as possible. Since a reliable historic model is not available, restoration data must come from fragmented sites. Numerous environmental changes have occurred during the past century that have altered our environment. Many of these changes are the direct or indirect result of human activity and these activities have resulted in both the loss of species and the removal of essential ecological processes from the preserve. All ecosystem management activities will focus on replicating or mimicking those historic processes and species diversity on the property. The following is a priority ranking of management needs. 1. Control of Invasive Exotic Species There is no single greater threat to the sustainability of the diverse species mix at ABNC than invasive exotic species. This threat exists in every major ecosystem under our care. An ongoing control program is essential to successful management of invasive species. 21 2. Habitat Restoration ABNC plant communities have been altered dramatically due to human land use practices. Agriculture, grazing practices, chemical use and aquifer depletion have left lasting impacts on the plant communities of the preserve. The introduction of critical ecological processes, such as fire, is essential to the restoration process. The re-introduction of important, yet locally rare, plant species also plays an important role in reaching a climax historic landscape. 3. Wildlife Management Management of certain wildlife species is critical to maintaining healthy plant communities and habitats. Monitoring and management of these species will lower adverse impacts on the landscape and increase species diversity and richness within the preserve. Both native and non-native wildlife species are included in the priority list of species to be monitored and managed. 4. Freshwater Pond Management Five freshwater ponds are located on ABNC property. These ponds may best be described as primarily open water habitat with emergent shoreline vegetation along the margins. These ponds provide unique high quality habitat for fishes, waterfowl, wading birds and amphibians. Pond management efforts will include invasive plant species management, fishery management and waterfowl nest box installation. 5. Monitoring Monitoring efforts are essential to fine-tune management activities. Monitoring efforts will enable the Stewardship Department to quantify results of management practices and determine the best methods for restoration and wildlife management. 6. Natural Resource Inventory A comprehensive natural resource inventory will be developed and will include all flora, fauna and cultural resources on the preserve. For further details, see Appendix A. B. EQUIPMENT NEEDS Several stewardship items are needed to ensure proper management and record keeping. 1. GPS – estimated cost $150 - $300 A global positioning system is needed to aid in mapping and recording stewardship practices and locations of unique resources within the preserve. 2. Digital Camera – estimated cost $300 A digital camera is needed to document stewardship practices and landscape change over time. 3. Four Wheel Drive ATV – estimated cost $8000-$9000 A second four-wheel drive ATV is needed to conduct prescribed prairie burns. Most burns are conducted during the winter wet season and an all-wheel-drive vehicle is essential to safe operation on the fire line. 4. Briggs & Stratton Spray Trailer Pump Motor 3 ½ HP 6:1 reduction - estimated cost $270 $475 Reliable equipment is critical for safe operation on the fire line. This new unit will replace an eightyear-old engine, which has reached the end of its dependable work span. 22 5. Yamaha 25HP Outboard Motor - estimated cost electronic start $3342/ manual start $2882 This engine is used to power the 15’ aluminum johnboat. The existing engine has reached the end of its reliable life span and needs to be replaced. The boat and motor are used for restoration work as well as a tow boat for the Bayou Ranger. C. FUNDING High quality projects require funding. Historically, such funding has been difficult to acquire. ABNC has depended on a diverse array of funding sources to meet management challenges. Some of these funding sources include grant monies, mitigation projects, corporate donations and line item budgeted funds. The Stewardship Department will coordinate with the Development Director and the Stewardship Committee on all funding acquisition efforts. D. ABNC VOLUNTEERS ABNC stewardship activities are dependent on a well-trained and dedicated group of volunteers. These volunteers enable a one-man Stewardship Department to successfully implement a large management program. Marsh restorations, prescribed burn operations, vegetative transect monitoring and bird surveys are only a few of the activities that are volunteer dependant. The Stewardship Department will conduct regular training sessions including prescribed burn training, prairie plant identification, forest plant identification and marsh restoration training. Volunteer participation in management activities occurs regularly on the first and third Saturday of each month (Stewardship Saturday) and every Friday (Prairie Friday). Other projects are coordinated by the Stewardship Coordinator as needed. E. ABNC STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE This group is primarily responsible for reviewing and recommending policies for the protection, enhancement and management of ABNC natural resources. The Stewardship Committee includes members of the Board of Trustees as well as other experts and interested individuals. This committee is responsible for establishing the management strategies and techniques to be utilized, reviewing all proposed mitigation projects and monitoring progress of stewardship activities. Currently, Stewardship Committee members meet on a bi-monthly basis to discuss priority stewardship issues. 23 8. CONSERVATION TOOLS “…the earth is our mother. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of the earth. This we know. The earth does not belong to man; man belongs to the earth. This we know. All things are connected like the blood which unites one family. All things are connected. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of earth. Man did not weave the web of life; he is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself.” A. VANISHING LANDSCAPES The Armand Bayou/Taylor Bayou watersheds are in the final stages of complete build out. The expansion of neighboring industry and suburbs threatens to leave ABNC as the only remaining sanctuary for wildlife. The time window to identify priority conservation areas within the region is very small. As this window closes, the last opportunity to conserve this natural heritage will be gone forever. Today, lands adjacent to the southern portion of the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve are managed by the Nature Center and are afforded some measure of protection. In contrast, the natural areas adjacent to the upper portion are managed by a variety of entities, including ExxonMobil, State of Texas, Harris County and the City of Pasadena. No cooperative long-term plan has been developed with these entities to help preserve some portion of these valuable natural areas, a critical goal for the long-term conservation of the Coastal Preserve. Chief Seattle B. PARTNERS FOR CONSERVATION Management and preservation practices at ABNC have relied on strong partnerships for success. These partnerships will become increasingly critical to ensure the long-term preservation in the Armand Bayou/Taylor Bayou watersheds. Conservation projects will occur outside the current ABNC boundaries. Partnership possibilities may include working with adjacent property owners to recognize the importance of conserving the remaining habitat and wildlands. ABNC will assist in developing management plans and long-term preservation strategies. Other partnership possibilities could include partnering for grant applications with governmental agencies. These grant funds would be directed toward purchasing properties for future preservation/restoration projects. ABNC will also work to facilitate conservation easements throughout the region. Conservation easements may prove an effective method of preserving critical habitat when ABNC has no desire to include parcels of property within the preserve. The Legacy Land Trust and The Bayou Preservation Association are two potential partners for promoting conservation easements in the area. C. MITIGATION Habitat mitigation has proven to be an effective method to meet restoration goals at ABNC. Habitat mitigation or compensation can be an effective tool to conserve additional habitats. Large development projects may require significant mitigation, which could be used to purchase/preserve additional habitat. These preservation areas could be defined as conservation easements or could be added to ABNC’s current acreage. To date all mitigation projects have been successfully accomplished with the use of environmental consultants. The consultant has worked closely with ABNC staff to develop and implement a restoration plan. The consultant assumes all responsibility for the success of the project. 24 In-Lieu-Fee Mitigation (ILF) 1. Type I ILF Mitigation This type of ILF mitigation will include cases where the Corps of Engineers has determined an appropriate mitigation plan for project impacts at the time of permit issuance. The plan may include the purchase of property and will have a well-defined and funded wetland restoration plan for the property. The ILF Operator (ABNC) must be is willing to complete the mitigation as defined in the permit plans and will assume all responsibility for the success of the plan. 2. Type II ILF Mitigation Type II ILF projects are still in the formative stages in the Galveston Corps District. These projects differ from Type I projects in that the mitigation funding received by the ILF Operator (ABNC) may be directed to purchase additional habitats in the Armand Bayou area for long-term preservation. The area will be targeted for wetland enhancement projects by the Operator in the future. Details of the mitigation will not be as well defined at the time of permit issuance as Type I projects. The ILF Operator will be responsible for the success of the project. 25 9. PUBLIC EDUCATION Do not try to satisfy your vanity by teaching a great many things. Awaken people’s curiosity. It is enough to open minds; do not overload them. Put there just a spark. If there is some good inflammable stuff, it will catch fire. Armand Bayou Nature Center is an island ecosystem surrounded by a growing suburban and industrial community. It is critical that ABNC cultivate positive communication and education with these neighbors for the benefit of all parties. Many ecological concepts and management practices are misunderstood by the public. The control of invasive species, prescribed burns, and deer population management are a few of the practices which need increased public understanding. Anatole France The Stewardship Department will continue efforts to better enlighten our neighbors by: • Stewardship activity updates on the ABNC Website • Submitting articles to local publications • Giving presentations to local community groups and organizations • Submitting regular articles to Along the Bayou (ABNC member newsletter) • Providing guided tours on Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve • Coordinate with the ABNC Education Department on curriculum development • Participate in Armand Bayou Watershed Working Group This is a diverse interagency stake holder group consisting of resource agencies, nongovernmental organizations, local governments and citizens. • Organize an annual Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve Day This event will encourage public participation in and enjoyment of our unique resource. Proposed activities will include canoeing, pontoon boat tours, litter clean-up, ecological teachins, music and printed information for distribution. 26 27 Appendix A: Armand Bayou Nature Center Flora and Fauna 33 PLANTS COMMON NAME GENUS/SPECIES FAMILY Alligator Weed American Beauty-berry American Elm American Sycamore Anglestem Beakrush Antelope Horn Arrowhead/Bulltongue Arrowwood Awnless bluestem Baccharis/Sea Myrtle Bahiagrass Bald Cypress Alternanthera philoxeroides Callicarpa americana Ulmus americana Platanus occidentalis Rhynchospora caduca Asclepias viridis Sagittaria lancifolia Virbunum dentatum Bothriochloa exaristata Baccharis halimifolia Paspalum notatum Taxodium distichum Amaranthaceae Verbenaceae Ulmaceae Platanaceae Cyperaceae Asclepiadaceae Alismataceae Caprifoliaceae Gramineae Asteraceae Gramineae Taxodiaceae Basket Flower Basswood Beaked Panicum Bermuda Grass Big Bluestem Bigtop Lovegrass Bitterweed Black Hickory Black Needlerush Black Willow Black-eyed Susan Blue Sage Blue Waterleaf Blue-star Bluets Brasilian vervain Broomsedge Brownseed Paspalum Bushy Aster Bushy Bluestem Butterfly Weed Button-bush Calico Aster California Bulrush Carolina Buckthorn Carolina Buttercup Carolina Cherry Laurel Carolina Horse-nettle Carolina Jessamine Carolina Moonseed Carolina Sedge Carolina Wolfberry Carpet Grass Cat/Green Briar Cedar Elm Ceeping Spot-flower Cherokee Sedge COMMON NAME Centauria americana Tilia caroliniana Panicum anceps Cynodan dactylon Andropogon gerardii Eragrostis hirsuta Helenium amarum Carya texana Juncus roemarianus Salix nigra Rudbeckia hirta Salvia azurea Hydrolea ovata Amsonia glaberrima Hedyotis nigricans Verbena brasiliensis Andropogon virginicus Paspalum plicatulum Aster dumosus Andropogon glomeratus Asclepias tuberosa Cephalanthus occidentalis Aster lateriflorus Scirpus californicus Rhamnus caroliniana Ranunculus carolinianus Prunus caroliniana Solanum carolinense Gelsemium sempervirens Cocculus carolinus Carex caroliniana Lycium carolinianum Axonopus affinis Smilax bona-nox Ulmus crassifolia Spilanthes americana Carex cherokeensis GENUS/SPECIES Asteraceae Tiliaceae Gramineae Gramineae Gramineae Gramineae Asteraceae Juglandaceae Juncaceae Salicaceae Asteraceae Lamiacieae Hydrophyllaceae Apcynaceae Rubiaceae Verbenaceae Gramineae Gramineae Asteraceae Gramineae Asclepiadaceae Rosaceae Asteraceae Cyperaceae Rhamnaceae Ranunculaceae Rosaceae Solanaceae Loganiaceae Menispemaceae Cyperaceae Solanaceae Gramineae Liliaceae Ulmaceae Asteraceae Cyperaceae FAMILY Cherrybark Oak Chinese Privet Chinese Tallow Quercus falcata Ligustrum sinense Sapium sebiferum Fagaceae Oleaceae Euphorbiaceae 34 Climbing Hempweed Common Cattail Common Fimbry Common Goldenrod Common Persimmon Coral Bean Creeping Seedbox Curly-leaf Dock Dallisgrass Deciduous Holly; Possum-Haw Deer Pea Deer Pea Vetch Dog Fennel Downy Lobelia Downy Milk-pea Drummond Rattlebox Duckweed Dwarf Palmetto Eastern Gama Grass Ebony Speenwort Elephant Ear Elliott Lovegrass Erect Dayfower Euthamia False Dandelion False Garlic False Jerusalem Cherry Farkleberry Fewflower Nutrush Flattened Sedge Florida Paspalum Frank's Sedge Fringe Tree Fringed Sneezeweed Frog Fruit Frost Weed Gayfeather/Blazing Star Giant Ragweed Globe Beakrush Goldenrod Grassy arrowroot/Duck Potato Green Ash Green Flatsedge Green Wild Indigo Gulf Coast Waterhemp Gulf cordgrass Gulf Muhly Hairy Flowered Spiderwort Hairy Ruellia COMMON NAME Mikania scandens Tule espadilla Fimbristylis pberula Solidago candensis Diospyros virginiana Eythrina herbacea Ludwigia glandulosa Rumex crispus Paspalum dilatatum Ilex decidua Vigna luteola Vicia ludoviciana Eupatorium capillifolium Lobelia puberula Galactia volubilis Sesbania drummondii Lemna polyrhiza Sabal minor Tripsacum dactyloides Asplenium platyneurin Colocasia esculenta Eragrostis elliottii Commelina erecta Euthamia leptocephala Pyrrhopappus carolinianus Nothoscordum bivalve Solanum capsicastrum Vaccimium arboreum Scleria pauciflora Carex complanata Paspalum floridanum Carex Frankii Chionanthus virginicus Helenium drummondii Phyla Sp. Verbesnia virginica Liatris pycnostachya Ambrosia trifida Rhynchospora globularis Solidago altissima Sagittaria graminea Fraxinus pensylvanica Cyperaceae virens Baptisia spharocarpa Amaranthus australis Spartina spartinae Muhlenbergia cappillaris Tradescantia hirsutiflora Ruellia humilis GENUS/SPECIES Asteraceae Typhaceae Cyperaceae Asteraceae Ebenaceae Fabaceae Onagraceae Polygonaceae Gramineae Aquifoliaceae Fabaceae Fabaceae Asteraceae Campanulaceae Leguminosae Leguminosae Lemnaceae Palmae Gramineae Aspleniaceae Araceae Gramineae Commelinaceae Asteraceae Asteraceae Liliaceae Solanaceae Ericaceae Cyperaceae Cyperaceae Gramineae Cyperaceae Oleaceae Asteraceae Verbenaceae Asteraceae Asteraceae Asteraceae Cyperaceae Asteraceae Alismataceae Oleaceae Cyperaceae Fabaceae Amaranthaceae Poaceae Gramineae Commelinaceae Acanthaceae FAMILY Halberd-leaved Rose-mallow Herbertia Hercules Club/Tickle Tongue Hogwort/Wooly Croton Honey Locust Horned Beakrush Huisache Hibiscus militaris Herbertia lahue caerulea Zanthoxylum clava-herculis Croton capitatus Gleditsia triacanthos Rhynochospora corniculata Acacia farnesiana Malvaceae Iridaceae Rutaceae Euphorbiaceae Fabaceae Cyperaceae Fabaceae 35 Indian Grass Indian Plantain Iva/High tide Bush Japanese Honeysuckle Japanese Privet Johnson Grass Knotroot Bristlegrass Late Thoroughwort Lead Plant Leafy Three-square Lemon Beebalm Little Bluestem Lizard-tail Loblolly Pine Long-leaf Pondweed Longspike Tridens Louisiana Dewberry Lovegrass/Lace Grass Low Aster Lyre-leaf Sage Marsh Bedstraw Marsh Seedbox Marshhay Cordgrass Maximilian Sunflower Maypop/Passionflower Meadow Beauty Meadow Pink Missouri Ironweed Mohr's Eupatorium Monkey Grass Muscadine Grape Mustang Grape Narrowleaf Seedbox Narrow-leaf Sumpweed Narrow-leafed Blue-eyed Grass Needlerush Niaiad Nits-and-Lice Noseburn Osage Orange Parsley Hawthorn Partridge Pea Pecan Pepper-vine Philadelhpia Fleabane COMMON NAME Sorghastrum nutans Cacalia lancelolata Iva frutescens Lonicera japonica Ligustrum japonica Sorghum halepense Seteria geniculata Eupatorium serotinum Amorph fruticosa Scirpus robustus Monarda citriodora Schizachyrium scoparium Saururus cernuus Pinus taeda Potamogenton nodosus Tridens strictus Rubus louisianus Eragrostis capillaris Helastrum henisphericum Salvia lyrata Galium tinctorium Ludwigia palustris Spartina patens Helianthus maximiliani Plassiflora incarnata Rhexia mariana Sabatia campestris Vernonia missurica Eupatorium mohrii Ophiopogon japonicus Vitis rotundifolia Vitis candicans Ludwigia lineraris Iva angustifolia Sisyrinchium angustifolium Juncus effusus Najas guadalupensis Hypericum drummondii Tragia bentonicifolia Malclura pomifera Crataegus marshallii Cassia fasciculata Carya illinoensis Ampelopsis arborea Erigeron philadelphicus GENUS/SPECIES Gramineae Asteraceae Asteraceae Caprifoliaceae Oleaceae Sorghastrum Gramineae Asteraceae Leguminosae Cyperaceae Lamiacieae Gramineae Saururaceae Pinaceae Potamogetonaceae Gramineae Rosaceae Gramineae Asteraceae Lamiacieae Rubiaceae Onagraceae Poaceae Asteraceae Passifloraceae Melastomataceae Gentianaceae Asteraceae Asteraceae Liliaceae Vitaceae Vitaceae Onagraceae Asteraceae Iridaceae Juncaceae Najadaceae Hypericaceae Euphorbiaceae Moraceae Rosaceae Leguminosae Juglandaceae Vitaceae Asteraceae FAMILY Phragmites/Sea Cane Pickerelweed Pink Mint Plains Coreopsis Plains Lovegrass Poison Ivy Pokeweed Pony Foot Post Oak Powdery Thalia Prairie agalinis Phragmites australis Ponterderia cordata Stachys drummondii Coreopsis tinctoria Eragrostis intermedia Rhus toxicodendron Phytolacca americana Dichondra carolinensis Quercus stellata Thlia dealbata Agalinis heterophylla Poaceae Pontederiaceae Lamiacieae Asteraceae Gramineae Anacardiaceae Phytolaccaceae Convolvulaceae Fagaceae Marantaceae Scrophulariaceae 36 Prairie Cordgrass Priarie Parsley Purple Cudweed Purple Loosestrife Purple Lovegrass Purple Three Awn Red Cedar Red Mulberry Resurection Fern Retama/Parkinsonia River Birch Rough agalinis Rough Buttonweed Round Pennywort Round-head Rush Salt-marsh morning Glory Scarlet Pimpernil Scribner's Dichanthelium Seacoast Sumpweed Sea-ox-eye Daisy Seaside Goldenrod Seaside Goldenrod Sensitive Briar Shiny Coneflower Showy Dodder Showy Evening Primrose Silk Grass Silky Evolvulus Silver Bluestem Slash Pine Slender Blazing Star Slender Copperleaf Smallseed Spikesedge Smooth Cordgrass Snow-on-the-Prairie Southern Dewberry Southern Swamp-lily Sow Thistle Spanish-moss Spider Lily Spikegrass COMMON NAME Spartina pectanata Polytaenia nuttalli Gnaphalium purpureum Lythrum lancelolatum Eragrostis spectabilis Aristida purpurascens Juniperus virginiana Morus rubra Polypodium polypodioides Parkinsonia aculeata Betula nigra Agalinis fasiculata Diodia teres Hydrocotyle umbellata Juncus validus Ipomoea sagittata Anagallis arvensis Dichanthelium oligosanthes Iva annua Borrichia frutescens Solidago sempervirens Solidago stricta Schrankia hystricina Rudbeckia nitida Cuscuta indecora Oenothera speciosa Heterotheca graminifolia Evolvulus sericeus Bothriochloa saccharoides Pinus elliottii Liatris acidota Acalypha gracilens Eleocharis microcarpa Spartina alterniflora Euphorbia bicolor Rubus trivialis Crinum americanum Sonchus asper Tillandsia useneoides Hymenocallis liriosme Chasmanthium laxum GENUS/SPECIES Poaceae Apiaceae Asteraceae Lythraceae Gramineae Gramineae Cupressaceae Moraceae Polypodiaceae Fabaceae Betluaceae Scrophulariaceae Rubiaceae Apiaceae Juncaceae Convolvulaceae Primulaceae Gramineae Asteraceae Asteraceae Asteraceae Asteraceae Leguminosae Asteraceae Cuscutaceae Onagraceae Asteraceae Convolvulaceae Gramineae Pinaceae Asteraceae Euphorbiaceae Cyperaceae Poaceae Euphorbiaceae Rosaceae Amaryllidaceae Asteraceae Bromeliaceae Amaryllidaceae Gramineae FAMILY Spikegrass Spring Ladies-tresses Squarestem Spikerush St. Andrew's Cross Sucker Flax Sugar Hackberry Sugarcane Plumegrass Supple-jack/Rattan Vine Swamp Parsley Swamp Sunflower Sweet Sedge Sweetgum Switchgrass Tall Dropseed Tall Gaura Chasmanthium sessiliflorum Spiranthes vernalis Eleocharis quadrangulata Ascyrum hypericoides Linum medium Celtis levigata Erianthus giganteus Berchemia scandens Trepocarpus aethusae Helianthus angustifolia Cyperus pseudovegetus Liquidamber styraciflua Panicum virgatum Sporobolus asper Gaura longiflora Gramineae Orchidaceae Cyperaceae Hypericaceae Linaceae Ulmaceae Gramineae Rhamnaceae Apiaceae Asteraceae Cyperaceae Hamamelidaceae Gramineae Gramineae Onagraceae 37 Texas Panicum Texas Spear/Wintergrass Thinfruit Sedge Tick-trefoil/Clover Trifoliate Orange Tropical Sage Trumpet Creeper Tuber vervain Turk's Cap Twoflower Rush Upland Privet Variable Dichanthelium Vasey Grass Virginia Buttonweed Virginia Creeper Wafer Ash/Hoptree Water Hyacinth Water Lettuce Water Oak Water Pepper Water-milfoil Wax-myrtle Western Ragweed Western Soapberry White Ash White Gaura White Snakeroot Whiteflower Mercardonia Whiteroot Rush White-topped Sedge Whorled Milkwort Widgeon Grass Wild Celery Willow Oak Winged Elm Wood Sorrel/Sour Grass Wooly Dichanthelium COMMON NAME Panicum texanum Stipa leucotricha Carex flaccosperma Desmonium Sp. Citrus trifoliata Salvia coccinea Campsis radicans Verbena rigida Malvaviscus arboreus drummondi Juncus marginatus Forestiera ligustrina Dichanthelium commutatum Paspalum urvillei Diodia virginiana Parthenocissus quinquefolia Ptelea trifoliata Eichornia crassipes Pistia stratiotes Quercus nigra Polygonum hydopiperoids Myriophyllum spicatum Myrica cerifera Ambrosia psilostachya Sapindus saponaria Fraxinus americana Gaura lindheimeri Eupatorium rugosum Mecardonia acuminata Juncus brachycarpus Rhynchospora colorata Polygala verticilata Ruppia maritima Apium leptophyllum Quercus phellos Ulmus alata Oxalis dillenii Dichanthelium acuminatum GENUS/SPECIES Gramineae Gramineae Cyperaceae Leguminosae Rutaceae Lamiacieae Bignoniaceae Verbenaceae Malvaceae Juncaceae Oleaceae Gramineae Gramineae Rubiaceae Vitaceae Rutaceae Pontederiaceae Araceae Fagaceae Polygonaceae Haloragaceae Myricaceae Asteraceae Sapondaceae Oleaceae Onagraceae Asteraceae Scrophulariaceae Juncaceae Cyperaceae Polygalaceae Ruppiaceae Apiaceae Fagaceae Ulmaceae Oxalidaceae Gramineae FAMILY Yankee Weed Yaupon Yellow Puff Yellow Wild Indigo Eupatorium compositifolium Ilex vomitoria Neptunia pubescens Baptisia sphaerocarpa Eryngium hookeri Boltonia asteroides Euthamia pulverulenta Carex intumescens Scleria ciliata Dichanthelium aciculari Panicum pilcomayense Asteraceae Aquifoliaceae Leguminosae Leguminosae Apiaceae Asteraceae Asteraceae Cyperaceae Cyperaceae Gramineae Gramineae 38 FISH COMMON NAME GENUS/SPECIES FAMILY Alligator Gar Lepisosteus spatula Lepisosteidae Atlantic Croaker Micropogon undulatus Sciaenidae Bay Anchovy Anchoa mitchelli Engradulidae Bay Whiff Citharichthys spilopterus Bothidae Bayou Killifish Fundulus pulverus Cyprinodontidae Black Bullhead Ictalurus melas Ictaluridae Black Crappie Pomoxis nigromaculatus Centrarchidae Black Drum Pogomius cromis Sciaenidae Blackcheek Tonguefish Symphurus plagiusa Cynoglossidae Blacktail Redhorse Moxostoma poecilurum Catastomidae Blue Catfish Ictalurus furcatus Ictaluridae Blue Runner Caranx crysos Carangidae Bluegill Sunfish Lepomis macrochinus Centrarchidae Carp Cyprinus carpio Cyprinidae Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus Ictaluridae Creek Chubsucker Erimyzon oblongus Catastomidae Diamond Killifish Adinia xenica Cyprinodontidae Flathead Catfish Pylodictis olivaris Ictaluridae Freshwater Drum Aplodinotus grunniens Sciaenidae Gafftopsail Catfish Bagre marinus Ariidae Gizzard Shad Dorosoma cepedianum Clupeidae Golden Shiner Notemigonus crysolecas Cyprinidae Green Sunfish Lepomis cyanellus Centrarchidae Gulf Killifish Fundulus grandis Cyprinodontidae Gulf Pipefish Syngnathus scovelli Syngnthidae Hogchoker Trinectes maculatus Soleidae Ladyfish Elops saurus Elopidae Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides Centrarchidae Largescale Menhaden Brevoortia tryannus Clupeidae Longear Sunfish Lepomis megalotis Centrarchidae Longnose Gar Lepisosteus osseus Lepisosteidae Mosquitofish Gambusia affinis Poecilidae Naked Goby Gobiosoma bosci Gobiidae Pinfish Lagodon rhomboides Sparidae Rainwater Killifish Lucania parva Cyprinodontidae Red Drum Sciaenops ocellatus Sciaenidae Redear Sunfish Lepomis microlophus Centrarchidae River Carpsucker Carpiodes carpio Catastomidae Sailfin Molly Poecilia latipinna Poecilidae Sand Seatrout Cynoscion arenarius Sciaenidae Sea Catfish Arius felis Ariidae Sheepshead Archosargus probactocephalus Sparidae Sheepshead Minnow Cyprinodon variegatus Cyprinodontidae COMMON NAME GENUS/SPECIES FAMILY Southern Flounder Paralichthys lethostigma Bothidae Southern Puffer Sphoerides nephelus Tetradontidae 39 Speckled Seatrout Cynoscion nebulosus Sciaenidae Spot Leiostoma xanthurus Sciaenidae Spotted Gar Lepisosteus oculatus Lepisosteidae Striped Mullet Mugil cephalus Mugilidae Threadfin Shad Dorosoma petenense Clupeidae Tidewater Silversides Menidia berryllina Atherinidae Violet Goby Gobiodes broussonetti Gobiidae Warmouth Chaenobryttus gulosus Centrarchidae White Crappie Pomoxis annularis Centrarchidae White Mullet Mugil curema Mugilidae Yellow Bass Morone mississippiensis Centrarchidae Yellow Bullhead Icatlurus natalis Ictaluridae 40 Mammals COMMON NAME Armadillo Big Brown Bat Big Free-tailed Bat Bobcat Brazilian Free-tailed Bat Coyote Eastern Cottontail Eastern Flying Squirrel Eastern Gray Squirrel Fox Squirrel Hispid Cotton Rat Norway Rat/Brown Rat Nutria Opossum Raccoon Red Fox River Otter Short-tailed Shrew Striped Skunk Swamp Rabbit White-footed mouse White-tailed Deer GENUS/SPECIES Dasypus novemoinctus Epesicus fuscus Nyctinomops macrotis Lynx rufus Tadarida brasiliensis Canis latran Sylvilagus floridanus Glaucomys volans Sciurus carolinensis Sciurus niger Sigmodon hispidus Rattus norvegicus Myocaster coypus Didelphis marsupialis Procyon lotor Vulpes fulva Lutra canadensis Blarina brevicauda Mephitis mehitis Sylvilagus aquaticus Peromyscus leucopus Odocoileus virginianus 41 FAMILY Dasypodidae Phyllostomidae Molossidae Felidae Molossidae Canidae Leporidae Anomaluridae Sciuridae Sciuridae Cricetidae Muridae Myocastoridae Didelphidae Procyonidae Canidae Mustelidae Soricidae Mustelidae Leporidae Cricetidae Cervinae Reptiles and Amphibians COMMON NAME GENUS/SPECIES FAMILY Gulf Coast Toad Blanchard's Cricket Frog Cope's Gray Treefrog Cricket Frog Gray Treefrog Green Treefrog Northern Spring Peeper Squirrel Treefrog Upland Chorus Frog Eastern Narrow-mouth Toad Sheep Frog Bullfrog Leopard Frog Smallmouth Salamander Three-toed Amphiuma Gulf Coast Waterdog Western Lesser Siren Alligator Snapping Turtle Common Snapping Turtle Ornate Box Turtle Red-eared Slider Three-toed Box Turtle Western Chicken Turtle Texas Cooter Common Musk Turtle Mississippi Mud Turtle Pallid Spiny Softshell American Alligator Western Slender Glass Lizard Mediterranean Gekko Green Anole Five-lined Skink Ground Skink Broadhead Skink Blotched Water Snake Broad-banded Water Snake Diamondback Water Snake Eastern Coachwhip Eastern Hognose Snake Eastern Yellow-bellied Racer Flathead Snake Graham's Crayfish Snake Great Plains Rat Snake Marsh Brown Snake Prairie Kingsnake Rough Earth Snake Rough Green Snake Speckled Kingsnake Texas Brown Snake COMMON NAME Bufo valliceps vaiilcpes Acris crepitans creptians Hyla chrysoscelis Acris crepitans Hyla versicolor Hyla cinerea Pseudacris crucifer crucifer Hyla squirella Pseudacris triseriata feriarum Gastrophryne carolinensis Hypopachus variolosus Rana catesbeiana Rana sphenocephala Ambystoma texanum Amphiuma tridactylum Necturus beyeri Siren intermedia nettingi Macroclemys temminckii Chelydra serpentina serpentina Terrapene ornata ornata Chysemys scripta elegans Terrapene carolina triunguis Deirochelys reticularia miaria Pseudemys texana Sternotherus odoratus Kinosternon subrubrum hippocrepis Trionyx spiniferus pallidus Alligator mississippiensis Ophisaurus attenuatus attenuatus Hemidactylus turcicus Anolis carolinensis Eumeces fasciatus Scincella lateras Eumeces laticeps Nerodia erythrogaster transversa Nerodia fasciata confluens Nerodia rhombifer rhombifer Masticophis flagellum Heterdon platyrhinos Coluber constrictor Tantilla gracilis Regina grahamii Elaphe guttata emoryi Storeria dekayi limnetes Lampropeltis calligaster Virginia striatula Ophyodrys aestivus Lampropeltis getulus Storeria dekayi texana GENUS/SPECIES Bufonidae Hylidae Hylidae Hylidae Hylidae Hylidae Hylidae Hylidae Hylidae Microhylidae Microhylidae Ranidae Ranidae Ambystomatidae Amphiumidae Proteidae Sirenidae Chelydridae Chelydridae Emydidae Emydidae Emydidae Emydidae Emydidae Kinosternidae Kinosternidae Trionychidae Crocodylidae Anguidae Gekkonidae Iguanidae Scincidae Scincidae Scincidae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae FAMILY Texas Rat Snake Western Mud Snake Western Ribbon Snake Elaphe obsoleta Farancia abacura reinwardtii Thamnophis proximus proximus Colubridae Colubridae Colubridae 42 Yellowbelly Water Snake Texas Coral Snake Southern Copperhead Western Cottonmouth Western Pygmy Rattlesnake Nerodia erythrogaster favigaster Micrurus fulvius Agkistrodon contortix Agkistrodon piscivorus Sistrurus miliarus 43 Colubridae Elapidae Viperidae Viperidae Viperidae Birds COMMON NAME GENUS/SPECIES FAMILY Acadian Flycatcher American Bittern American Coot American Crow American Goldfinch American Kestrel American Pipit American Redstart American Robin American White Pelican American Woodcock Anhinga Baltimore Oriole Barn Owl Barn Swallow Barred Owl Bay-breasted Warbler Belted Kingfisher Black Vulture Black-and-white Warbler Black-bellied Whistling Duck Black-billed Cuckoo Blackburnian Warbler Black-chinned Hummingbird Black-crowned Night-heron Black-necked Stilt Blackpoll Warbler Black-throated Gray Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Blue Grosbeak Blue Jay Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Blue-headed Vireo Blue-winged Teal Blue-winged Warbler Bobolink Brewer's Blackbird Broad-winged hawk Brown Creeper Brown Pelican Brown Thrasher Brown-headed Cowbird Canada Goose Canada Warbler Carolina Chickadee Carolina Wren Caspian Tern Cattle Egret Cedar Waxwing COMMON NAME Empidonax virescens Botaurus lentiginosus Fulica americana Corvus brachyrhynchos Carduelis tristis Falco spaverius Turdus migratorius Pelecanus erythrorhynchos Scolopax minor Anhinga anhinga Icterus galbula Tyto alba Hirundo rustica Strix varia Dendroica castanea Ceryle alcyon Coragyps atratus Mniotilta varia Dendrocynga autumnalis Coccyzus erythropthalmus Dendroica fusca Archilochus alexandri Nycticorax nycticorax Himantropus mexicanus Dendroica striata Dendroica nigrescens Dendroica virens Guiraca caerulea Cynocitta cristata Polioptila caerulea Vireo solitarius Anas discors Vermivora pinus Dolichonyx oryzivorus Euphagus cyanocephalus Buteo platypterus Certhia americana Pelecanus occidentalis Toxostoma rufum Molothrus ater Branta canadensis Wilsonia canadensis Poecile carolinensis Thryothorus ludocicianus Sterna caspia Bubulcus ibis Bombycilla cedrorum GENUS/SPECIES Tyrannidae Ardeidae Rallidae Corvidae Fringillidae Falconidae Motacillidae Parulidae Turdidae Pelecanidae Scolopacidae Anhingidae Icteridae Tytonidae Hirundinidae Strigidae Parulidae Alcedinidae Cathartidae Parulidae Anatidae Cuculidae Parulidae Trochilidae Ardeidae Recurvirostridae Parulidae Parulidae Parulidae Cardinalidae Corvidae Sylviidae Vireonidae Anatidae Parulidae Icteridae Icteridae Accipitridae Certhiidae Pelecanidae Mimidae Icteridae Anatidae Parulidae Paridae Troglodytidae Laridae Ardeidae Bombycillidae FAMILY Cerulean Warbler Chestnut-sided Warbler Chimney Swift Dendroica cerulea Dendroica pensylvanica Chaetura pelagica Parulidae Parulidae Apodidae Anthus rubescens Setophaga ruticilla 44 Chipping Sparrow Chuck-will's-widow Cliff Swallow Common Goldeneye Common Grackle Common Moorhen Common Nighthawk Common Snipe Common Yellowthroat Cooper's Hawk Crested Caracara Dark-eyed Junco Dickcissel Double-crested Cormorant Downy Woodpecker Eastern Bluebird Eastern Kingbird Eastern Meadowlark Eastern Phoebe Eastern Screech-Owl Eastern Towhee Eastern Wild Turkey Eastern Wood-Pewee European Starling Field Sparrow Forester's Tern Fox Sparrow Golden-crowned Kinglet Golden-winged Warbler Grasshopper Sparrow Gray Catbird Great Blue Heron Great Crested Flycatcher Great Egret Great Horned Owl Greater White-fronted Goose Greater Yellowlegs Great-tailed Grackle Green Heron Green-winged Teal Groove-billed Ani Hairy Woodpecker Harris Sparrow Hermit Thrush Herring Gull Hooded Merganser Hooded Warbler House Sparrow House Wren COMMON NAME Spizella passerina Caprimulgus carolinesis Petrochelidon pyrrhonota Bucephala clangula Quiscalus quiscula Gallinula chloropus Chordeiles minor Gallinago gallinago Geothlypis trichas Accipiter cooperi Caracara plancus Junco hyemalis Spiza americana Phalacrocorax auritus Picoides pubescen Sialia sialis Tryannus tryannus Sturnella magna Sayornis phoebe Otus asio Pipilo erythrophthalmus Meleagis gallopavo silvertris Contopus virens Sturnus vulgaris Spizella pusilla Sterna foresteri Passerella iliaca Regulus satrapa Vermivora chrysoptera Ammodramus savannarum Dumetella carolinensis Ardea herodias Myiarchus crinitus Ardea alba Bubo virginianus Anser albifrons Tringa melanoleuca Quiscalus mexicanus Butorides virenscens Anas crecca Crotophaga sulcirostris Picoides villosus Zonotrichia querula Catharus guttatus Larus argentatus Lophodytes cucullatus Wilsonia citrina Passer domesticus Troglodytes aedon GENUS/SPECIES Emberizidae Caprimulgidae Hirundinidae Anatidae Icteridae Rallidae Caprimulgidae Scolopacidae Parulidae Accipitridae Accipitridae Emberizidae Cardinalidae Phalacrocoracidae Picidae Turdidae Tyrannidae Icteridae Tyrannidae Strigidae Emberizidae Phasianidae Tyrannidae Sturnidae Emberizidae Laridae Emberizidae Regulidae Parulidae Emberizidae Mimidae Ardeidae Tyrannidae Ardeidae Strigidae Anatidae Scolopacidae Icteridae Ardeidae Anatidae Cuculidae Picidae Emberizidae Turdidae Laridae Anatidae Parulidae Passeridae Troglodytidae FAMILY Inca Dove Indigo Bunting Kentucky Warbler Killdeer Lark Bunting Laughing Gull Least Bittern Columbina inca Passerina cyanea Oporornis formosus Charadrius vociferus Calamospiza melanocorys Larus atricilla Ixobrychus exilis Columbidae Cardinalidae Parulidae Charadriiae Emberizidae Laridae Ardeidae 45 Least Flycatcher Least Sandpiper Least Tern LeConte's Sparrow Lesser Scaup Lesser Yellowlegs Lincoln's Sparrow Little Blue Heron Loggerhead Shrike Long-billed Dowitcher Louisiana Waterthush Magnificant Frigatebird Magnolia Warbler Mallard Marsh Wren Merlin Mississippi Kite Mottled Duck Mourning Dove Mourning Warbler Nashville Warbler Neotropic Cormorant Northern Bobwhite Northern Cardinal Northern Flicker Northern Harrier Northern Mockingbird Northern Parula Northern Pintail Northern Rough-winged Swallow Nothern Waterthrush Orange-crowned Warbler Orchard Oriole Osprey Ovenbird Painted Bunting Palm Warbler Peregrine Falcon Pied-billed Grebe Pileated Woodpecker Pine Siskin Pine Warbler Prothonotary Warbler Purple Finch Purple Gallinule COMMON NAME Empidonax minimus Calidris minutilla Sterna antillarum Ammodramus leconteii Aythya affinis Tringa flavipes Melospiza lincolnii Egretta caerulea Lanius ludovicianus Limnodromus griseus Seiurus motacilla Fregata magnificens Dendroica magnolia Anas platyrhynchos Cistothorus palustris Falco columbarius Ictinia mississippiensis Anas fulvigula Zenaida macroura Oporornis philadelphia Vermivora ruficapilla Phalacrocorax brasilianus Colinus virginianus Cardinalis cardinalis Colaptes auratus Circus cyaneus Mimus polyglottos Parula americana Anas acuta Stelgidopteryx serripennis Seiurus noveboracensis Vermivora celata Icterus spurius Pandion haliaetus Seiurus aurocapillus Passerina ciris Dendroica palmarum Falco peregrinus Podilymbus podiceps Dryocopus pileatus Carduelis pinus Dendroica pinus Protonaria citrea Carpodacus purpureus Porphyrula martinica GENUS/SPECIES Tyrannidae Scolopacidae Laridae Emberizidae Anatidae Scolopacidae Emberizidae Ardeidae Laniidae Scolopacidae Parulidae Fregatidae Parulidae Anatidae Troglodytidae Falconidae Accipitridae Anatidae Columbidae Parulidae Parulidae Phalacrocoracidae Odontophoridae Cardinalidae Picidae Accipitridae Mimidae Parulidae Anatidae Hirundinidae Parulidae Parulidae Icteridae Accipitridae Parulidae Cardinalidae Parulidae Falconidae Podiciedidae Picidae Fringillidae Parulidae Parulidae Fringillidae Rallidae FAMILY Purple Martin Red-bellied Woodpecker Red-breasted Nuthatch Red-eyed Vireo Red-headed Woodpecker Red-shouldered Hawk Red-tailed Hawk Red-winged Blackbird Ring-billed Gull Rock Dove Roseate Spoonbill Progne subis Melanerpes carolinus Sitta canadensis Vireo oivaceus Melanerpes erythrocephalus Buteo lineatus Buteo jamaicensis Agelaius phoeniceus Larus delawarensis Columba livia Ajaia ajaja Hirundinidae Picidae Sittidae Vireonidae Picidae Accipitridae Accipitridae Icteridae Laridae Columbidae Threskiornithidae 46 Rose-breasted Grosbeak Royal Tern Ruby-crowned Kinglet Ruby-throated Hummingbird Rufous Hummingbird Sandhill Crane Savannah Sparrow Scarlet Tanager Scissor-tailed flycatcher Sedge Wren Sharp-shinned hawk Snow Goose Snowy Egret Solitary Sandpiper Song Sparrow Sora Spotted Sandpiper Sprague's Pipit Summer Tanager Swainson's Hawk Swainson's Thrush Swainson's Warbler Swallow-tailed Kite Swamp Sparrow Tennessee Warbler Tree Swallow Tricolored Heron Tufted Titmouse Turkey Vulture Veery Vermillion Flycatcher Vesper Sparrow Virginia Rail Warbling Vireo Western Sandpiper Whip-poor-will White Ibis White-crowned Sparrow White-eyed vireo White-faced Ibis White-tailed Hawk COMMON NAME Pheucticus ludovicianus Sterna maxima Regulus calendula Archilochus colubris Selasphorus rufus Grus canadensis Passerculus sandwichensis Piranga olivacea Tryannus forticatus Cistothorus platensis Accipiter striatus Chen caerulescens Egretta thula Tringa solitaria Melospiza melodia Porzana carolina Actitus macularia Anthus spragueii Piranga rubra Buteo swainsoni Catharus ustulatus Limnothlypis swainsonii Elanoides forficatus Melospiza georgiana Vermivora peregrina Tachycineta bicolor Egretta tricolor Baeolophus griseus Cathartes aura Catharus fuscescens Pyrocephalus rubinus Pooecetes gramineus Rallus limicola Vireo gilvus Calidris mauri Caprimulgus vociferus Eudocimus albus Zonotrichia leucophrys Vireo griseus Plegadis chihi Buteo albicaudatus GENUS/SPECIES Cardinalidae Laridae Regulidae Trochilidae Trochilidae Gruidae Emberizidae Thraupidae Tyrannidae Troglodytidae Accipitridae Anatidae Ardeidae Scolopacidae Emberizidae Rallidae Scolopacidae Motacillidae Thraupidae Accipitridae Turdidae Parulidae Accipitridae Emberizidae Parulidae Hirundinidae Ardeidae Paridae Cathartidae Turdidae Tyrannidae Emberizidae Rallidae Vireonidae Scolopacidae Caprimulgidae Threskiornithidae Emberizidae Vireonidae Threskiornithidae Accipitridae FAMILY White-tailed Kite White-throated Sparrow Wilson's Warbler Winter Wren Wood Duck Wood Stork Wood Thrush Worm-eating Warbler Yellow Warbler Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Yellow-billed Cuckoo Yellow-breasted Chat Yellow-crowned Night-heron Yellow-rumped Warbler Yellow-throated Vireo Elanus leucurus Zonotrichia albicollis Wilsonia pusilla Troglodytes troglodytes Aix sponsa Mycteria americana Hylocichla mustelina Helmitheros vermivorus Dendroica petechia Sphyrapicus varius Coccyzus americanus Icteria virens Nyctanassa violacea Dendroica coronata Vireo flavifrons Accipitridae Emberizidae Parulidae Troglodytidae Anatidae Ciconiidae Turdidae Parulidae Parulidae Picidae Cuculidae Parulidae Ardeidae Parulidae Vireonidae 47 Yellow-throated Warbler Dendroica dominica Parulidae 48 Appendix B: Armand Bayou Nature Center Exotic Species Management Plan ARMAND BAYOU COASTAL PRESERVE A. INTRODUCTION Exotic (non-native) species are those plants which did not historically occur in a region, but have been introduces to an area. They may have evolved in a latitude or climate very similar to their introduces range. Often there are no natural predators in the introduced landscape to keep the exotic population from unchecked growth. There are a number of such aquatic plants in the Armand Bayou Watershed. The list includes water hyacinth (Eichornia crassipes), elephant ear (Colocasia antiquorium), alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxerides) and water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes). The introduction of exotic species in Texas has had a dramatic impact on the ecology of the aquatic environments. Over time exotic plants can out compete native plants and completely dominate the landscape. As exotic plants replace native plants, a number of negative environmental impacts begin to appear. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regulates exotic species in Texas and in accordance with the Fish Farming Act of 1989 (Senate Bill 1507) is required to maintain a list of harmful and potentially harmful aquatic plants. Twelve species of aquatic plants have been identified and are currently prohibited in the state. Within the Galveston Bay Estuary system, the introduction and proliferation of opportunistic nonnative aquatic plants has resulted in the degradation of acres of estuarine habitat. The Galveston Bay Plan, the comprehensive conservation and management plan for the Galveston Bay ecosystem, identifies habitat loss as the number one problem for the bay. One area of particular concern is the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve, a tributary of west Galveston Bay, which is experiencing an increasing problem with the invasion of exotic plant species. The purpose of the Exotic Species Management Plan for the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve is to identify and implement techniques for the control of problem exotic species, which degrade the Preserve’s native plant community and aquatic environment. B. BACKGROUND Recognizing the need for the long-term preservation, protection and management of unique natural areas along the Texas coast, the Texas Legislature created the Texas Coastal Preserve Program. The Texas General Land Office and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department were designated the administering agencies for this program. Armand Bayou, a pristine wilderness remnant located within the largest urban area in the state, was designated a Coastal Preserve in 1992. The Armand Bayou Nature Center, a 2500 acre preserve which surrounds portions of Armand Bayou, in cooperation with the administering agencies, manages the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve. The Galveston Bay Estuary Program, which received Environmental Protection Agency funding to design and implement Action Demonstration projects to demonstrate innovative solutions to basinwide problems at the sub-water-shed level, chose Armand Bayou as one of two demonstration projects for the Texas Coastal Preserve Program. The objectives of the project involved the development of an Armand Bayou Management Plan to effectively manage area resources and obtaining permanent coastal preserve status for Armand Bayou to protect water quality, living resource and human health. The Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve demonstration project was a success and resulted in the completion of the Management Plan Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve in October 1992. 49 Vegetation management was identified as a priority in the Management Plan Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve. The vegetative management goals include: (1) protect and maintain the native plants and plant communities of the Preserve; (2) identify the plant species; and (3) restore aquatic plant communities. In support of these goals, the Galveston Bay Estuary Program is providing funding to Armand Bayou Nature Center for the development and implementation of an Exotic Species Management Plan for Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve. C. WATER HYACINTH Water hyacinth, an extremely invasive aquatic plant, is one of the twelve exotic species prohibited in the state of Texas. Although a relative newcomer to the Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve, this aquatic weed has become a priority management problem for the Preserve resource managers. It is a native of the Amazon basin and is commonly believed to have been introduced to the United States at the World’s Industrial and Cotton Centennial Exposition of 1884-1885 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Water hyacinth is a free-floating perennial aquatic herb in the Pontederiaceae, pickerelweed family. Leaves are smooth-edges, thick and waxy and dark green. They grow in a nearly circular shape approximately 8” in length. Leaf stems have inflated spongy bulbs and with the leaves can project up to 36” above the water’s surface. Lilac, white and blue flowers occur on spikes with yellow centers. The roots are long and feathery and dangle below the water surface or root in the substrate. Water hyacinth is a tropical and subtropical plant species. The plant cannot tolerate water temperature above 340 C. Leaves are killed by frost but it is only when the rhizome tip below the water surface is frozen that the entire plant dies. Water hyacinth occurs in rivers, bayous, lakes, ponds, reservoirs and drainage ditches. Nursery areas include swamps and shallow tidewater bays. After flood events, great mats of the weed may be flushed into mainstream water bodies such as clear Lake and Galveston Bay. Once the plant encounters seawater with an average salinity of 15ppt, it will die leaving unsightly noxious mats of decomposing plant matter floating in the water. Not only are natural forces responsible for the spread of this plant but man continues to facilitate its widespread distribution. Water hyacinth is occasionally sold for ornamental water gardens or aquaria maintenance. The plant is used in agriculture as pig feed, fertilizer, a growing medium for mushrooms and as a wrap for cigars. Recently it has been found to absorb a variety of toxins and heavy metals and is being used for water purification in the wastewater treatment industry. The plant has also been carelessly spread by watercraft and trailers moving from one body of water to another without a thorough cleaning between launches. The growth rate of water hyacinth is among the highest of any known plant. It reproduces by sending of short runner stems, which develop new daughter plants. It can also reproduce by seed germination. It has been estimated that 10 plants can produce enough offspring to cover an acre in one growing season. During the period from March to October, water hyacinth in the Preserve can grow from shoreline to shoreline, creating and unmanageable condition within the bayou. A mat of medium-sized water hyacinth plants may contain 1,000,000 plants per acre and weigh up to 200 metric tons. As these plant mats spread across a body of water, sunlight is prevented from reaching the water column, eliminating both oxygenation processes of photosynthesis and diffusion. This oxygen deficient environment results in degraded water quality and destroys biological diversity. Spawning areas are blocked as the weed becomes denser and fish populations are destroyed. 50 Surface water supplies are reduced by increased sedimentation from rotting leaves and roots. One acre of water hyacinth can deposit approximately 17 million leaves or 500 tons of rotting plant material on the bottom of a water body each year. Navigation becomes virtually impossible due to the solid mass of floating vegetation and dangerous because channels are hidden. Huge rafts of water hyacinth restrict flood control and have the potential to damage chemical and petroleum pipeline which cross the Preserve. Recreation can become unpleasant due to the increased mosquito populations, which take refuge in the weed cover, and access to the water is restricted by the thick mats of weed that push against the public and private boat ramps. D. METHODS OF CONTROL Water hyacinth can be controlled by mechanical, biological and herbicidal means. The first efforts to control the plant involved the development and utilization of mechanical equipment such as mechanical harvesters. Mobile barge-mounted harvesters remove the weeds from the water by lifting the plants through a conveyor and transporting them to a land-based disposal site. Mechanical control is not practical for most large-scale removal projects. It is difficult to harvest in water with submerged rocks and stumps which can damage the equipment; there is limited access for harvesting in shallow water; inclement weather may result in significant equipment downtime, fishery resources may be inadvertently harvested by the equipment, capital outlays are expensive, disposal sites may not be available and reproduction rates of the plants usually exceed harvesting rates. As an alternative to mechanical control, scientists have investigated the use of biological control for deterring plant growth. Since water hyacinth is not native to the United States, there are no natural enemies to keep the plant in check. Current biocontrol efforts have centered on two species of weevils (Neochetina eichorniae and Neochetina bruchi), a moth (Sameodes albiguttalis) and a fungus. Although some success has been documented for the utilization of biocontrols, this method is not recommended for two reasons; (1) the bioagents typically do not multiply as fast as the water hyacinth and (2) the impact of the non-native controls is still being determined. In recent years, herbicidal application has become the primary method of controlling water- hyacinth. Because complete eradication is virtually impossible due to high economic and environmental cost associated with intensive chemical control, resource managers are now advocating a program of maintenance control. The objective of maintenance control is not to complete eradication of water hyacinth, but to maintain the plant populations at the lowest feasible levels using small applications of herbicides. Research indicates that maintenance control methods result in a reduction of herbicide use, a reduction of organic matter (dead plant leaves) deposition in the water bottom and reduced management costs. Herbicides are regulated by the U.S. Environmental protection Agency and the Texas Department of Agriculture. The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission monitors statewide water quality. E. 2,4-D The systemic herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) is the most commonly applied chemical for water hyacinth (broadleaf) control. Both growing leaves and roots absorb the 2,4-D. The herbicide is then translocated throughout the entire plant to actively growing tissue resulting in abnormal growth and cell division. Decomposition takes approximately 30 days, depending on previous treatments. The products of 2,4-D breakdown are carbon dioxide, water, ammonia and chlorine. 51 The 2,4-D is applied by sprayer with a dilution rate of 3:100 (3 lbs herbicide per 100 gallons water). This control may be purchased or applied only by an applicator licensed by the Texas Department of Agriculture. All application to exotic plants described in this management plan will be conducted by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Aquatic Plant Control specialists. The chemical will be delivered to the target species by hand-held spray nozzles operated from an airboat. This application technique is very accurate and will deliver herbicide to target species while avoiding non-target plants. F. EXOTIC SPECIES MANAGEMENT The Armand Bayou Nature Center will be responsible for coordinating the implementation of the Exotic Species Management Plan for Armand Bayou Coastal Preserve including: 1. Routine Monitoring of Exotic Species Levels on the Preserve ABNC staff will monitor the following water bodies for exotic plant populations: Armand Bayou Horsepen Bayou Big Island Slough Willow Spring Gully These water bodies will be surveyed no less than once every 30 days during the growing season. Species of special concern include Water hyacinth, elephant ear, water lettuce and alligator weed. ABNC staff will utilize their best professional judgment to determine when plant populations require control. When plant populations need controlling, ABNC personnel will coordinate with TPWD plant control specialists to perform control techniques. 2. Identifying Target Areas for Maintenance Control Armand Bayou exhibits a wide variation in salinity levels throughout its twelve mile length. The maritime influence is at its southernmost point. This is the confluence of Armand Bayou and Clear Lake. It is common to find salinity levels between 8 and 18ppt during the growing season. By contrast, the headwaters of Armand Bayou and its tributaries are freshwater streams. Salinity levels in these upper reaches remains 0 – 3ppt year round. It is the in the headwater areas that water hyacinth finds the most hospitable environment in which to flourish. For this reason the upper reaches of the bayou and its tributaries will be the primary focus for maintenance control. After large rainfalls, huge rafts of water hyacinth are carried downstream with the floodwaters. These drifting hyacinth islands will be the secondary focus area for maintenance control. is highly desirable to treat these rafts before they enter Clear Lake and create navigational hazards. 3. Routinely Monitor Changes in Native Plant Communities Due to Competition with Exotic Species. ABNC staff will monitor negative impacts to native plant communities through visual observation. 4. Developing and Coordinating a Maintenance Control Schedule with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as Needed. 5. Developing and Implementing a Watershed Outreach/Education Strategy Working in cooperation with the Texas General Land Office, this program will include conducting public meetings and publishing newsletter articles on exotic species management in the Preserve. Armand Bayou is a highly used recreational body of water. In an effort to minimize any misconceptions related to chemical control techniques utilized, a public meeting was held at Armand Bayou Nature Center. Issues of concern that were discussed included toxic side effects from the use of 2,4-D; fish consumption after application; impacts to native plant communities and decomposition of large areas of plant material. 52 Appendix C: CLEAN WATER FOR ARMAND BAYOU Range Ecosystem Management Part I: Permanent Line Transects Permanent line transects will be established during the fall of 1998 in each management unit or pasture for determining seasonal and long-term changes in the vegetative complex. Data generated from the line transect method will be used to establish baseline information on the species diversity (plant bio-diversity) present and to document change in the vegetative complex relative to management alternatives imposed. Plant frequency of occurrence (as a percent) will be used for comparison of pastures and monitoring of vegetation changes. Recommended Procedure: 1. Establish three line transects in each management unit or pasture which provide a random sampling of the vegetation. Each transect line will be 104 feet in length from marker to marker. 2. Transect lines will be monitored four times each year in the following periods which can best reflect seasonal and vegetative changes: January, late April through May, late June through mid-July and late October through mid-November. The January sampling period may not be needed in the coastal prairie vegetative area. 3. A 1/8 rectangular meter (Daubenmire frame) or ¼ square meter frame will be placed on the transect line at 2 paces (5 feet) beginning at the starting marker of the transect line which will allow for a minimum of 29 data collection points on each transect line. 4. A minimum of 30 and a maximum of 60 randomly selected points on the three lines will be established at each collection period. A randomized number table will be used in establishing the transect lines from unit lines. Each sample site will be picked using the random number selection process with the maximum feet or meters between sites established from the total distance in the individual unit. Photo points will be established at the beginning of the transect line and recorded quarterly. 5. At each point, the sampling frame will be placed evenly on the transect line. The presence of 36 target species will be recorded (if identifiable) at each sampling site using a % coverage estimate. The eight suggested cover estimates are 0-1% (useful for reporting plants present at a trace level and reported as category 1), 1-5% (category 2), 6-20% (category 3) 21-40% (category 4), 41-60% (category 5), 61-80% (category 6), 81-96% (category 7), and 97-100% (representing total coverage as a monoculture of one species and reported as category 8). This method will allow for the collection of frequency data by herbaceous species as well as a species cover estimate. After the first collection period, a species frequency curve will be utilized to determine if an adequate number of sample units has been established. 6. Since the terrain in the local area can have a microrelief of Vertisols (gigai), it may be necessary to record data by location in a microvalley such as “in the valley” (1), or on a microridge (3). The collection and monitoring of frequency for species composition could be affected if all sample sites were in the “gilgai” valley. 53 7. Volunteers for this project will be trained in plant identification beginning in the fall of 1998 and will be followed in the winter or early spring with training on the transect line process. Volunteers will be led in determining their pace or on a pace which gives a length of about 5 feet. Prepared by Dr. Barron S. Rector, Associate Professor and Extension Range Specialist, College Station, Texas. Phone: 409 845 2755 August 18, 1998 54 Appendix D: Armand Bayou Nature Center Prescribed Burn Procedure Revised March 2000 A. INTRODUCTION Prescribed burning is a valuable management practice for the maintenance and restoration of tallgrass prairie. Fire controls woody plant intrusion stimulates new growth and seed germination and recycles essential plant nutrients. Prescribed burning alone will not accomplish all prairie maintenance and restoration goals, but without fire these goals will probably not be achieved. Every effort will be taken during burn planning, preparation, execution and reporting at ABNC to ensure that all burns are (1) safe, (2) meet all agency and ABNC guidelines and requirements and (3) accomplish ecological objectives. Prescribed burning activity at Armand Bayou Nature Center will be conducted only under specific weather conditions with specified minimums of personnel and equipment. B. BURN PLANNING AND EXECUTION 1. Fire Lines All fire lines to be used for scheduled winter burns shall be mowed as near to the end of the growing season as possible. Fire lines will be evaluated shortly before the burn date to assure their viability and ascertain amounts of flammable material still remaining within them. For optimum safety, mowed fire lines should be between 24’ and 36’ wide dependent upon surrounding fuels. Ideally, if funding allows, fire suppression foam should be used for fire line burning operations in the growing season. 2. Weather Prescribed burns will be conducted only under optimum weather conditions. Wind must be at least 6 miles per hour and cannot exceed 15 miles per hour. The TNRCC weather office must be notified on the morning of the prescribed burn. The weather office will deliver burn weather predictions for the day and will give the “go/no go” for the burn. For a more localized forecast, the National Weather Service in Alvin may be called. Once the burn begins, weather conditions will be monitored regularly to detect any changes. Changing weather conditions may require that the burn be halted. 3. Personnel A minimum of eight people is required to conduct a prescribed burn at ABNC. To participate in a prescribed burn, all staff and volunteers must attend the ABNC Prescribed Burn Training Class. The Fire Boss has overall authority during the burn. The Fire Boss will hold a pre-burn briefing to ensure that all participants fully understand their role and safety precautions. The Fire Boss will maintain a file of Release of Liability (see attachment 1) for all volunteers who participate in the prescribed burn. 4. Equipment The following equipment is the minimum for any controlled burning activity at ABNC: fire flaps for every personnel of the burn, at least one 60-gallon trailer mounted sprayer and at least one all-terrain vehicle (ATV). During summer burns, a tractor with mower is also desirable. The Fire Boss and at least one member of each two-person team will utilize operating two-way radios. A designated staff member in the ABNC office will also monitor the radio in the event of an emergency. The Fire Boss may also have a cellular phone. 55 C. GOALS OF PRESCRIBED BURNING The goals of prescribed burning activities at Armand Bayou Nature Center are to conduct burns that; (1 provide for safety of both people and property, (2) fall within the written guidelines, (3) follow all state, county and local agency guidelines and (4) accomplish predetermined ecological objectives for prairie and marsh restoration. 1. Safety Certain risks are associated with prescribed burning. Safety, of both personnel conducting a burn and surrounding citizens, has first priority. Prescribed burning presents dangers from both smoke and flames. Sudden wind shifts that take fire out of prescription can endanger people and property. Shifting winds can also reduce visibility on bordering roads very quickly. Fire units will be ignited in a manner that will produce the least smoke and still achieve ecological objectives. During prescribed burns, the Fire Boss will be responsible for (1) monitoring road conditions near the burn, (2) having access to immediate communication with emergency personnel, (3) keeping informed on general weather conditions in the area and (4) assuring the water in the sprayer tank does not fall below ¼ capacity. 2. Burn Prescriptions A burn prescription (see page 59) will be prepared by the Fire Boss for each unit at ABNC. Included in this prescription will be a description and map of the unit, prescribed weather parameters, equipment and personnel required, firing technique to be used, possible smoke sensitive areas and any special precautions which may be needed. The prescription will also have notes summarizing the burn and fire behavior as well as a post-burn evaluation. If the conditions on burn day do not meet prescriptions for a particular unit, that unit will not be burned. 3. Local Ordinances Prescribed burning at ABNC is subject to severe limitations due to the surrounding urban area. Applicable agencies will be notified at least twenty-four hours prior to a prescribed burn (see Pre-Burn Notification List) and will be provided with a copy of the post-burn report. Burn units are limited to 25 acres in size and no more than 75 acres can be burned in one day. An hour between last flame and ignition of the next fire is required. 4. Documentation Documenting and reporting the results of the prescribed burn is crucial. Upon completion of the burn, the Burn Prescription and Post-burn Report will be completed and copies distributed to the agency list. Files of past burn activities, including Release of Liability, shall be maintained as part of the Stewardship Office’s permanent record. 5. Ecological Goals and Objectives The primary goal of burning prairie units at ABNC is to control woody vegetation that was historically excluded from the tallgrass prairie by grazing bison and natural fire. Prescribed burning at the Nature Center is usually conducted during the dormant (winter) season. Control of some species may require prescribed burning during the early portion of the growing season (spring). Prescribed burning may be used in the future to aid in marsh restoration, restoration of former prairie now covered with Chinese tallow thickets and as a method to aid decomposition in cut over areas. 56 PRESCRIBED PRAIRIE BURN CONTACT LIST TNRCC - SEND POST BURN REPORT Arturo Blanco, Air Section Manager, 5425 Polk Ave. Suite H, Houston TX 77023 Include TNRCC Account #HG1032T 713 767 3700 or 713 767 3712 call for a favorable forecast Fax 713 767 3761 TNRCC Fire Weather Forecast 713 767 3712 Local Supervisor Dick Flannery 713 767 3727 Houston Area Supervisor Diana Sullivan 713 767 3744 Fax 713 767 3761 TNRCC Ozone Advisories Ben Cofferen or Ron Wells 512 239 1804 Harris County Pollution Control - SEND POST BURN REPORT Mr. Jerry Harris 107 North Munger, PO Box 6031, Pasadena TX 77506 713 920 2831 Fax 713 477 8963 CALL DAY PRIOR TO BURN Pasadena Fire Department - SEND POST BURN REPORT Mr. Bill Yearout, Fire Marshall City of Pasadena, 1001 E. Shaw, Suite B-201, Pasadena TX 77506 713 475 5556 Fax 713 477 3093 Pasadena Fire Dispatch - MUST CALL MORNING OF BURN 713 477 1122 Fax 713 477 2936 COURTESY CALLS Taylor Lake Village Police Dispatch 281 326 5900 HPD Dispatch 713 222 3131 HPD Clear Lake Office 281 218 3800 HFD Dispatch 713 222 7643 HFD Clear Lake Station 71 Ask for Station Captain WEST BANK BURNS ONLY Clear Lake City Water Authority 281 488 2400 James Bryd Superintendent University of Houston Clear Lake Police 281 283 2222 NASA Fire and Safety Dept. 281 483 5324 Ask for Day Specialist NASA Fire Dispatch 281 483 4658 EAST BANK/TAYLOR BAYOU BURNS ONLY Bayport Caer Line 281 228 8304 (Rohm & Haas Safety Dispatch will send message to Caer Line) Must send immediate follow-up fax after call fax number 281 228 2327 MISC NUMBERS NWS Dickinson 281 337 5192 - Ask for Forecaster NWS Fire Weather Forecast 281 337 5192 CLEMC Bob Squires 281 488 3078 Webster VFD 281 332 2711 Can Provide Assistance Texas Forest Service – Dean Ross 936 875 4786 or 936 639 8130 Can Assist 57 RELEASE OF LIABILITY I,________________________, hereby agree to conduct myself in a safe and professional manner while participating in the Controlled Prescribed Burning Program at Armand Bayou Nature Center. I have attended Prescribed Burn Class and agree to follow the procedures as outlined in the class and the instruction of ABNC personnel in the field. I will not hold ABNC liable for any injuries or accidents while participating in this program. I understand that there are serious risks involved with this type of activity. Signed_____________________________________ For minors only: I,______________________, being the parent/guardian of ________________________hereby give my son/daughter permission to participate in the Controlled Prescribed Burning Program at Armand Bayou Nature Center. I understand that there are serious risks involved with this type of activity and will not hold ABNC liable for any injuries or accidents while participating in this program. Signed_____________________________________ 58 ABNC PRESCRIBED BURN PRESCRIPTION Date of Burn:_____________ Location: Armand East Burn Unit:_____ Armand West Acres to Burn:_____ Taylor West Previous Burn:_____ Taylor East Previous Mow:_____ Stand Description:___________________________________________________________ Fuel Description:____________________________________________________________ Possible Smoke Sensitive Areas:________________________________________________ Special Precautions:__________________________________________________________ PREPARATION Personnel Needs:____________________________________________________________ Equipment Needs: Fire Flaps John Deere 5510 tractor Fire Rakes 5-gallon backpack pumps 60-gallon trailer mounted sprayer 250 gallon brush truck Pre-Burn Notifications Complete? Kawasaki ATV Y 10-gallon spot sprayer John Deere ATV N WEATHER FACTORS Surface Winds:________________________ Maximum Temperature:__________ Minimum Relative Humidity:____________ Start Time:_____________________ All Out:______________________ PERSONNEL Fire Boss:__________________________________________________________________ Other ABNC Staff:___________________________________________________________ ABNC Volunteers and Other: NAME (and Safety Briefing?) NAME (and Safety Briefing?) ____________________________________ _____________________________________ ____________________________________ _____________________________________ ____________________________________ _____________________________________ ____________________________________ _____________________________________ ____________________________________ _____________________________________ 59 Unit Map BURN SUMMARY:_________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Designated Fire Boss:______________________________ Field Notes Reference:_______________ Date:_____________________________ POST BURN EVALUATION Remarks:___________________________________________________________________________ 60 APPENDIX E: A PLANT CHECKLIST OF A HARRIS COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DETENTION BASIN January 2001 By: Larry E. Brown Houston Community College 1300 Holman Avenue Houston TX 77004 61 This checklist is dedicated to Ralph Taylor of the Harris County Flood Control District for his interest in the local flora, for encouraging the development of the checklist, and for his discovery of one of the rarest Texas plants (Cyperus cephalanthus) in this detention basin. 62 INTRODUCTION The following is a checklist of all the vascular plants, native and introduced, that are present on the Harris Flood Control Basin located south of Spencer Highway in Pasadena. The checklist is based upon monthly trips beginning on 21 March 2000 and ending on 23 September 2000, This site is a remnant native prairie positioned east of the Texas Chiropractic College and west of a trailer park housing site. It is north of Little Vince Bayou and southeast of the Beltway /Spencer Highway intersection. Prairie vegetation surrounds a detention basin that has been dug adjacent to the chiropractic college to alleviate downtown flooding along Little Vince Bayou, which flows southeast into Armand Bayou. The only other disturbance sites are a pipeline right of way across a section of the site and a deposit of dirt fill along a portion of the pipeline right of way. Most of the plant species are typical of a prairie including species that are found in prairie pot hole wet habitats. Weedy species grow around and in the detention basin and on the deposit of dirt. During the seven months of fieldwork, the following habitats were identified along with some species that are found only or mostly in these habitats. Prairie: This is the largest plant community. The following are some of the plants of this habitat, Manfreda virginica, Eryngium uccifolium, Ascepias verticillata, Ambrosia psilostachya, Atser ericoides, Helianthus maximillani, Liatris pycnostachya, Pityopsis graminifolia, Sceleria ciliata, Dalea candida var. candida, Krameria lanceolata, Bouteloua curtipendula, Coelorachis cylindrical, Muhlenbergia capillaries, Schizachyrium scoparium, Salvia azure, Tridens strictus, Tripsacum dactyloides, and Andropogon gerardii. Plants of disturbed areas: These plants are in the detention basin depression, on fill dirt and on the prairie margins. The typical plants are, Cynodon dactylon, Chloris canteria, Bothriochloa ischaemem, Torilis arvensis, Torilis nodosa, Aster subulatus, Helianthis annuus, Hypichaeris microcephala, Pyrrhopappus pauciflorus, Senecio tampicanus, Solidago Canadensis, Sonchis asper, Medicago lupulina, M. polymorpha, Trifolium repens, Alllim canadense, Ambrosia trifida, Paspalum urvillei, and Nothoscordium. Plants of wet flood control ditches: Some plants here are, Alternanthera philoxeroides, Ludwigia peploides and Amaranthus rudis. Plants of the prairie wetlands: Some of the plants here are, Acmella oppositifolia, Panicum virgatum, Sagittaria (two species), Justicia ovata, Carex crus-ccorvii, Carew lupulina, Cyperis cephalanthus, Spartina pectinata, Cyperus haspan, Sesbania drummondii, Leersia hexandra, and Paspalum lividum. 63 The following are significant plant finds and some comments about their significance: Aster ericoides L. This is a rare species in the Houston area. It is usually found only in pristine prairies. Eupatoriom hyssopufolium L. This is another rare species in the Houston area. It is found only in high quality prairies. Cyperus cephalanthus T. & H. This is one of the rarest plants in Texas, if not the rarest. It was first discovered in Texas in 1835 near Galveston Bay with the exact locality unknown. It has not been seen since in Texas until Ralph Taylor discovered a population at this site in 1999. In 1993, Carter and McInnis published a status report on this species and reported 18 sites in the Louisiana coastal prairies. In Texas, they searched for it in the coastal prairies of Chambers and Harris counties but without success. Because of the construction pending at the detention basin, Ralph Taylor has transferred most of the plants of this species to the nursery at the Greens Bayou Mitigation Bank, where they are now growing. After the proposed construction is completed here, it may be possible to transfer some plants back to the original site. Trifolium pratense L. This is my first Harris County collection of this agronomic clover. In the northern states it is planted for pasture improvement. A few plants were growing along the detention basin and arrived here probably in a ground cover seed mixture. Krameria lanceolata Torr. In the Houston area this prostrate herb with orchid-like flowers has been found in Harris and Waller counties. This is the second Harris County collection. Cuphea glutinosa Cham & Schlecht. This is the first Harris County record for this prostrate herb that is native to South America. Bothriochloa Exaristata (Nash) Henr. This grass, endemic to coastal prairies in southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana, is on the watch list of Texas most endangered species list. This is on of the few Harris county sites. Coelorachis cylindrical (Michx.) Nash This is another rare prairie grass species. This is the second Harris County record in the SBSC herbarium. The other collection is east of this site from a prairie along Spencer Highway near the intersection with Center Street. Spartina pectinata. This is an extremely rare prairie grass in Harris County and apparently in Texas. I surveyed the Tracy Herbarium at Texas A&M University and found only two 1930 collections from two counties in the Texas panhandle. In Harris County, this typical northern prairie pot hole species is found in the upper headwaters of the Armand Bayou drainage system. The other local records are to the southeast near the intersection of Beltway 8 and Fairmont Parkway. Here one plant shared a low moist area with Cyperus cephalanthus. The coordinates of the site are 29o39’39”N and 95o08’50”W. 64 The species list beginning on page six is arranged alphabetically by family, genus and species. The first two columns indicates the origin, i.e. N for those plants that are native to the United States, I for the non-native usually woody taxa. The second two columns indicates the form, i.e. woody or herbaceous. The third three columns indicates the principal flowering season, i.e. V for vernal (from late February to June), S for summer (from June through August), F for fall (from September through November and W for winter (December through early February). None of our species have their principal flowering period in winter. Table 1 indicates that 56 families, 183 genera and 291 species were found during the study period from March 2000 through September 200. The five largest families are the Poaceae with 33 genera and 63 species, the Asteracea with 32 genera and 47 species, the Cyperacae with 6 genera and 30 species, the Fabacea with 14 genera and 27 species and the Apiaceanae with 11 genera and 12 species. The number of families (56) and species (291) on this small site in southern Harris County are comparable to the 108 families and 599 species on the larger 256 acres Mercer Arboretum along Cypress Creek in the northern portion of the county. The smaller detention basin species is due to the small size of the detention basin, the dominance of the prairie habitat and the absence of any significant habitats. 65 TABLE 1 TAXANOMIC ANALYSIS OF THE FLORA Family Acanthaceae Alismataceae Amaranthaceae Amaryllidaceae Anacardiaceae Apocynaceae Asclepiadaceae Brassicaceae Campanulaceae Caprifoliaceae Caryophyllaceae Commrlinaceae Convolvulaceae Cornaceae Cupressaceae Cyperaceae Ebenaceae Euphorbiaceae Fabaceae Gentianaceae Geraniaceae Hypericaceae Iidaceae Juglandaceae Juncaceae Krameriaceae Liliaceae Lythraceae Malvaceae Moraceae Myricaceae Oleaceae Onegraceae Orchidaceae Oxalidaceae Passifloraceae Plantaginaceae Genera 2 1 2 2 1 2 1 1 2 2 3 2 3 1 1 6 1 4 14 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 3 3 1 1 2 3 1 1 1 1 66 3 2 2 2 1 2 2 1 2 2 3 2 4 1 1 30 1 7 27 2 1 2 5 1 6 1 2 3 4 1 1 4 5 1 2 1 3 Species Poaceae Polygonaceae Primulaceae Ranunculaceae Rhamnaceae Rosaceae Salicaceae Sapindaceae Scrophulariaceae Solanaceae Sterculiaceae Typhaceae Ulmaceae Urticaceae Valerianaceae Verbenaceae Vitaceae 33 2 1 3 1 2 2 1 4 2 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 54 5 1 3 1 3 2 1 4 2 1 2 2 1 1 3 1 FAMILIES GENERA SPECIES Total 56 183 291 67 LITERATURE The scientific names in this reported are largely derived from one or more of the following publications. Carter, R. and N. McInnes. 1993. A final sstatus report for Cyper cephalanthus. Published by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered Species Office. Jackson Mississippi. Orrell, D.S. and M.C. Johnston. 1970. Manual of the vascular plants of Texas. Texas Research Foundation. Renner, Texas Diggs, G.M., B.L. Lipscomb, and R.J. O’Kennon. 1999. Illustrated flora of north central Texas. Sida Botanical Miscellany, No. 16:1 – 1626. Jones, S.D., J.K. Wipff, & P.M. Montomery. 1997. Vascular Plants of Texas. University of Texas Press. Austin, Texas Hatch, S.N., K.N. Gandhi, and L.E. Brown. 1989. Checklist of the Vascular Plants of Texas. The Texas Agricultural Experimental Station. Texas A&M University. College Station, Texas Kartesz, J.T. 1994 A Synonymized checklist of the vascular flora of United States, Greenland and Canada. Two vols. Timber Press. Portland, Oregon Wunderlin, R.P. 1998 Guide to the vascular plants of Florida. University Press of Florida. Gainesville, Florida 68