9.C.1. PRSR 02-11-2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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®Task G: Field Inventory May-October 2004 Thorough, on-the-ground information about natural areas provides accurate information to those who will make decisions about natural areas in the future. Therefore, we propose to conduct detailed field inventories for all natural areas on properties greater than five acres where property access is granted. For areas where property access is not granted, we will gather as much information as possible by viewing natural areas from an accessible viewing point and through aerial photo interpretation. The final data set will reflect the level of field visit for each natural/semi-natural area. We will use methodologies employed by the DNR Natural Heritage Program, County Biological Survey to determine natural community type and quality. These methods are consistent with and fully incorporated into MLCCS methods. We will follow MLCCS methods and standards for classifying semi-natural community types. During the field inventory, we will gather a broad range of information, depending on community type. Examples of the type of information we will gather include: Landcover type Significant or sensitive upland and wetland communities Rare species ExotiUinvasive species Wildlife occurrences and wildlife habitat Forest resources ~ Wetland features, including streams, ponds, lakes and wetlands Water quality and quantity In addition, landform and any notable geological features or hazards will be noted, where they occur. Much of the preceeding information can be incorporated into the data through the use of modifier codes in the MLCCS database. For all natural areas that are field visited, we will record the composition of dominant tree, shrub and groundcover species. Particular emphasis will be placed on identifying plant species that indicate [he quality of the natural community. Examples of indicator species include invasive/exotic species, those species considered "conservative"" for the community type, and rare species found only in exceptional quality natural areas. Additional field notes will also be gathered on related natural resource management concerns, such as excessive erosion/sedimentation, fire danger, stormwater runoff, and incompatible land use/management practices. D Task 7: MLCCS Digitizing and Data Entry MLCCS Mapping and Data Entry Natural and semi-natural land cover polygons will be digitized and coded in ArcView GIS software at the most detailed MLCCS level possible for a particular natural or semi-natural community type. Whenever City ofE/k R/uei NaNral Resou¢es /nvenmry We wil/ candua fie/d in/entories for areas greater than five apes where property access is granted.