HomeMy WebLinkAbout20041081.tiff rte -` United States Department of Agriculture
O n ' n K Natural Brighton Field Office
I s. i Resources 57 W. Bromley Lane
Conservation Brighton, CO 80601
Service andrea.vialpando@co.usda.gov
Phone(303)659-4177 X 114 http://www.co.nres.usda.gov Fax(303)659-1768
Terry Douglas May 6, 2002
Careers Worldwide
9791 Brighton Rd. Unit B
Henderson, CO 80640
Re: Equipment Operator School
Section 28, Township 2 North, Range 64 West, Part of the NW4 (62.2 acres)
On May 6, 2002, I met with Terry Douglas of Careers Worldwide to discuss the natural resource
impacts of using this land as a school for heavy equipment operators. Approximately 23 acres will be used
for excavation and will not have any vegetation growing on it. Mr. Douglas places a high value on
maintaining the wildlife habitat value of this land, and on preventing adverse impacts to the wetland on the
property and to traffic on 1-76. To this end, he has requested a revegetation plan that can be used to
reclaim the property for pasture and wildlife habitat. He has also requested altematives to controlling soil
erosion during ongoing excavation activities.
VEGETATION INVENTORY:
The site has four distinct areas.
1. Wetland and associated pasture (approximately 17 acres): this land is bordered on the
north by WCR 18. There is a pond surrounded with cattails on the north side of the
property. A large clump of willows is growing near the southeast corner of the pond and
there is a narrow strip of Inland saltgrass around the edge of the pond.
2. Mined area (approximately 23 acres): This land is south and east of the pond. It was
mined by Winslow Construction and was revegetated last year. A few grass seedlings
are coming up, but the dominant vegetation appears to be Field bindweed and Kochia
seedlings. Many other weed species are also present.
3. Pasture (approximately 17 acres): This area is south and west of the pond. The pasture
is mostly Intermediate and Pubescent wheatgrass with some Smooth bromegrass
growing in a drainage running from a culvert on the south side of the property from 1-76.
There is Canada thistle and Field bindweed growing actively in this drainage.
4. Other land (approximately 5 acres): This land is on WCR 10 and consists of a trailer
home, several corrals and sheds, and two small pastures. The pasture that borders the
wetland is a low spot that will be used for storm water detention. The other pasture will
be maintained in grass and may have a few shrubs and shade trees planted in it at a later
date. There is also a large area northeast of the trailer that will be used for student
parking
/'N
The Natural Resources Conservation Service works hand-in-hand with USDA NRCS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands. PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER
2004-1081
SOILS:
The soils found on the site are as follows:
15- Colby loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes
18—Colby-Adena loanns, 3 to 9 percent slopes
26—Haverson loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes
79—Weld loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes
A complete description of these soils can be found in the 'Soil Survey of Southern Weld County,Colorado'.
A soil map with soils descriptions and construction limitations is included with this report. All of these soils
except for the Colby-Adena loans are considered prime farmland when irrigated. The Colorado State
Water Engineer can be contacted at(970) 352-8712 to determine if irrigation water is adjudicated to this
property.
RECLAMATION PLAN:
PLANNED POST EXCAVATION LAND USE: Pasture and wildlife habitat.
NOXIOUS WEEDS: Canada thistle and Field bindweed are both considered noxious weeds in Weld county
and must be controlled. We recommend that the applicant develop a weed management plan with Weld
County Cooperative Extension to ensure that the noxious weeds found on the property will be controlled in
a timely manner. Ron Broda is the Weed Management Specialist and can be contacted at(970) 356-4000
X 4465.
"` TOPSOIL: Topsoil should be stripped to a depth of six inches and stockpiled before beginning any
excavation activities. If the topsoil is to be stockpiled for longer than one year, it should protected from soil
erosion by planting perennial vegetation. The grass seeding recommendation labeled 'Mix A for Careers
Worldwide' can be used for this purpose. Grass should be planted in accordance with the directions
provided for best success in establishment.
REVEGETATION: The land should be graded to slopes not to exceed 3-foot horizontal to one-foot vertical.
Shallower slopes would be preferable for reduced erosion and ease of seeding. Stockpiled topsoil should
be replaced on the soil surface to a depth of at least six inches to provide the new grass seeding the best
medium for growth. The 'Mix B for Careers Worldwide' can be used for revegetating these acres. This
grass mix consists of native species best suited to wildlife in the area and has been chosen specifically by
the landowner because of its wildlife benefit. After the topsoil has been replaced and before the grass is
seeded, the soil should be tested to determine the need for fertilizer and the amount of salt in the soil. If a
soil test reveals that the soil has an EC (electroconductivity) in excess of 4 mmhos/cm, these mixes may
have to be amended to include more salt tolerant species. Grass should be planted in accordance with the
directions provided for success in establishment. No grazing should occur until the grass is well
established which may take up to four years.
FERTILIZER: Fertilizer should be applied only after the soil is tested to determine rate of application. Soil
samples should be taken according to CSU Cooperative Extension guidelines. Application of fertilizer
should be in accord with recommended amounts.
WETLANDS: The National Wetland Inventory map of this area shows potential wetlands on this site along
the stream and pond. We recommend that the Army Corp of Engineers be contacted at (303) 979-4120 if
dredging or filling activities will occur in this area to determine the need for permits or mitigation. The
Colorado State Water Engineer can be contacted at (970) 352-8712 to determine if irrigation water is
available to augment water levels in the pond, if desired.
,0'^N
The Natural Resources Conservation Service works hand-in-hand with USDA NRCS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands. PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER
WILDLIFE HABITAT MANAGEMENT:
The landowner has expressed interest in retaining the wildlife value of the wetland while excavation
activities occur. He will continue to work with the NRCS in consultation with the Colorado Department of
Wildlife to develop tree and shrub plantings that will enhance the habitat found on the site and encourage
wildlife use after excavation activities are completed.
EROSION CONTROL:
The landowner plans to have over 20 acres of land exposed at all times to be used for training heavy
equipment operators. This presents an erosion hazard since most of the land is considered highly erodible.
In addition,there are some fairly steep slopes running down to the pond and wetland.
The landowner can use stockpiled topsoil to form a berm between the pond and excavation. This berm
should run along the south side of the excavation west to the storm water detention area. A parabolic
channel should be formed along the south side of the berm to carry water to the detention area. The berm
should be revegetated as explained above, as should the channel used to carry water. If this channel fills
with sediment,the landowner can scrape the sediment out without damaging the grass crowns or affecting
the wetland.
Wind erosion will need to be controlled using a combination of practices. The landowner should sprinkle
water in the excavation area as needed to control dust that may blow and impact traffic on 1-76. In addition,
he will be working with the NRCS to establish windbreaks to reduce wind velocity. Silt fence can be
installed to control saltation while the trees are becoming established.
' s" If you have any questions about this information or need additional guidelines, please contact me at the
number shown above.
Sincerely, 4,1
Andrea Vialpando
Soil Conservationist
The Natural Resources Conservation Service works hand-in-hand with USDA NRCS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands. PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER
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14 SOIL SURVEY
ing corn, sugar beets, beans, alfalfa, small grain, The potential native vegetation is dominated by blue
potatotes, and onions. An example of a suitable cropping grama. Several mid grasses, such as western wheatgrass
system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa followed by corn, corn for and needleandthread, are also present. Potential produc-
silage, sugar beets, small grain, or beans. Few conserva- tion ranges from 1,600 pounds per acre in favorable years
tion practices are needed to maintain top yields. to 1,000 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition
All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow u'- falograss,deteriorates,sn the id d,grasses and fringed blue grama,
buf-
rase;
igation isl the most common. Bfor yie manure and corn- and forage production drops. Undesirable weeds and an-
Windbreaks viron top l lantds.
Windbreaks and environmental plantings of trees and nuals invade the site as range condition becomes poorer.
shrubs commonly grown in the area are generally well Management of vegetation on this soil should be based
suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competing on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc-
vegetation should be continued for as many years as tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition.
possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and Sideoats grams, little bluestem, western wheatgrass, blue
have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern gram; pubescent wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass are
redeedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and suitable for seeding. The grass selected should meet the
hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, seasonal requirements of livestock. It can be seeded into
lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum. a clean, firm sorghum stubble or it can be drilled into a
Openland wildlife, such as pheasant, mourning dove, firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in spring has
and cottontail, are best suited to this soil. Wildlife habitat proven most successful.
Windbreaks and environmental plantings of trees and
development, including tree and shrub plantings and shrubs commonly grown in the area are generally well
grass plantings to serve as nesting areas, should be sic- suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competing
cessful without irrigation during most years. Under ir- vegetation should be continued for as many years as
rigation, good wildlife habitat can be established, benefit-
possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and
ing many kinds of openland wildlife. have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern
This soil has good potential for urban and recreational redeedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and
developments. Road design can be modified to t a load.
hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac,
sate for the limited capacity of this soil to support a load. lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum.
^ Capability class I irrigated. Openland wildlife, such as pheasant, mourning dove,
15 Colby loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes. This is a deep, and cottontail, and rangeland wildlife, such as antelope,
we drained soil on uplands at elevations of 4,850 to 5,050 cottontail, and coyote, are best suited to this soil. Under
feet. It formed in calcareous eolian deposits. irrigation, good wildlife habitat can be established,
Typically the surface layer is pale brown loam about 12 benefiting many kinds of openland wildlife. Forage
inches thick. The underlying material is very pale brown production is typically low on rangeland, and grazing
silt loam to a depth of 60 inches. management is needed if livestock and wildlife share the
Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is range. Livestock watering facilities also are utilized by
high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. various wildlife species.
Surface runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is This soil has good potential for urban and recreational
moderate. development. Road design can be modified to compensate
In irrigated areas this soil is suited to all crops eom- for the limited capacity of this soil to support a load.
monly grown in the area, including corn, sugar beets, Capability subclass IIe irrigated, IVe nonirrigated;
beans, alfalfa, small grain, potatoes, and onions. An exam- Loamy Plains range site.
ple of a suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa 16—Colby loam, 3 to 5 percent slopes. This is a deep,
followed by corn, corn for silage, sugar beets, small grain, well drained soil on upland hills and ridges at elevations
or beans. Land leveling, ditch lining, and installing of 4,850 to 5,050 feet. It formed in calcareous eolian
pipelines may be needed for proper water application. deposits. Included in mapping are small areas of soils that
All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir- have fine sandy loam or loam underlying material.
rigation is the most common. Barnyard manure and com- Typically the surface layer is pale brown loam about 10
mercial fertilizer are needed for top yields. inches thick. The underlying material is very pale brown
In nonirrigated areas this soil is suited to winter wheat, silt loam to a depth of 60 inches.
barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is planted to Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is
winter wheat. The predicted average yield is 28 bushels high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more.
per acre. The soil is summer fallowed in alternate years Surface runoff is medium to rapid, and the erosion hazard
to allow moisture accumulation. Generally precipitation is is moderate.
too low for beneficial use of fertilizer. In irrigated areas this soil is suited to crops commonly
Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum til- grown in the area. Perennial grasses and alfalfa or close
lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. grown crops should be grown at least 50 percent of the
Terracing may also be needed to control water erosion. time. Contour ditches and corrugations can be used in ir-
16 SOIL SURVEY
management is needed if livestock and wildlife share the ments of livestock. It can be seeded into a clean, firm
range. Livestock watering facilities also are utilized by sorghum stubble, or it can be drilled into a firm prepared
various wildlife species. seedbed. Plowing and drilling should be on the contour to
This soil has good potential for urban and recreational minimize runoff and soil losses. Seeding early in spring
developments. Road design can be modified to compen- has proven most successsful. Capability subclass IVe
sate for the limited capacity of this soil to support a load. nonirrigated; Colby soil in Loamy Slopes range site,
Capability subclass IVe irrigated, VIe nonirrigated; Adena soil in Loamy Plains range site.
Loamy Slopes range site. 19—Colombo clay loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes. This is
C)—Colby-Adena barns, 3 to 9 percent slopes. These a deep, well drained soil on flood plains and terraces at
gently sloping to moderately sloping soils are on plains, elevations of 4,600 to 4,780 feet. It formed in stratified
hills, and ridges at elevations of 4,750 to 4,900 feet. The calcareous alluvium. Included in mapping are small areas
Colby soil, which makes up about 55 percent of the map of soils that have a loam surface layer and some small
unit, occupies the steeper, convex parts of the landscape. leveled areas.
The Adena soil, about 30 percent of the unit, occupies the Typically the surface layer of this Colombo soil is dark
less steep, slightly concave parts. About 15 percent is grayish brown clay loam about 14 inches thick. The upper
Kim loam and Weld loam. 7 inches of the underlying material is pale brown
The Colby soil is deep and well drained. It formed in stratified clay loam and loam. The lower part to a depth
calcareous eolian deposits. Typically the surface layer is of 60 inches is very pale brown loam stratified with thin
pale brown loam about 7 inches thick. The underlying lenses of fine sand, medium sand, and clay loam.
material to a depth of 60 inches is very pale brown silt Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is
loam. high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more.
Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is Surface runoff is slow, and the erosion hazard is low.
high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. In irrigated areas this soil is suited to crops commonly
Surface runoff is rapid, and the erosion hazard is high. grown in the area, such as corn, sugar beets, beans, alfal-
The Adena soil also is deep and well drained and fa, onions, and potatoes.
formed in calcareous eolian deposits. Typically the surface All methods of irrigation that are common to the area
layer is brown loam about 6 inches thick. The subsoil is are used. Borders are suitable for small grain, alfalfa, and
brown and very pale brown clay loam about 3 inches pasture. Furrow irrigation is used for row crops. Crops
thick. The substratum to a depth of 60 inches is very pale respond to application of nitrogen and phosphorus.
brown silt loam. Windbreaks and environmental plantings of trees and
Permeability is slow. Available water capacity is high. shrubs commonly grown in the area are generally well
The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Surface suited to this soil. Cultivation to control competing
runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is moderate. vegetation should be continued for as many years as
This unit is used for nonirrigated cropland and range- possible following planting. Trees that are best suited and
land. It is suited to winter wheat, barley, and sorghum. have good survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern
Most of the acreage is planted to winter wheat and is redcedar, ponderosa pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and
summer fallowed in alternate years to allow moisture ac- hackberry. The shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac,
cumulation. Generally precipitation is too low for benefi- lilac, Siberian peashrub, and American plum.
cial use of fertilizer. Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil.
Stubble mulch fanning, striperopping, and minimum til- Ring-necked pheasant, mourning dove, and many non-
lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. game species can be attracted by establishing areas for
Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. nesting and escape cover. For pheasants, undisturbed
The potential native vegetation on this unit is nesting cover is essential and should be included in plans
dominated by blue grama. Sideoats grama, little bluestem, for habitat development, especially in areas of intensive
and western wheatgrass are also prominent. Potential agriculture.
production ranges from 1,800 pounds per acre in favora- Where this soil is on flood plains and is susceptible to
ble years to 1,100 pounds in unfavorable years. As range flooding it has poor potential for urban and recreational
condition deteriorates, the sideoats grama and little development. On the higher terraces the potential is fair.
bluestem decrease, forage production drops, and blue Dwelling and road designs need to be modified to in-
grama, buffalograss, and several perennial forbs and crease the capacity of the soil to support a load and to
shrubs increase. Undesirable weeds and annuals invade protect it against frost action. Capability subclass IIw ir-
the site as range condition becomes poorer. rigated.
Management should be based on taking half and leaving 20—Colombo clay loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes. This is
half of the total annual production. Seeding is desirable if a deep, well drained soil on flood plains and terraces at
the range is in poor condition. Sideoats grama, little elevations of 4,600 and 4,780 feet. It formed in stratified
�.., bluestem, western wheatgrass, bluegrama, pubescent calcareous alluvium. Included in mapping are small areas
wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass are suitable for seed- of soils that have a loam surface layer. Some small
ing. The grass selected should meet the seasonal require- leveled areas are also included.
..
20 SOIL SURVEY
from grass and weeds are the principal hazards in tion ranges from 1,600 pounds per acre in favorable years
establishing tree and shrub plantings. Summer fallowing a to 1,000 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition
year in advance in nonirrigated areas and continued cul- deteriorates, the tall grasses decrease, blue grama and
tivation for weed control are needed to insure establish- buffalograss increase, and forage production drops. Un-
ment and survival of plantings. Supplemental irrigation desirable weeds and annuals invade the site and erosion
may be needed. Trees that are best suited and have good can occur as range condition becomes poorer.
survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, Management of vegetation on this soil should be based
ponderosa pine, Russian-olive, and hackberry. The shrubs on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc-
best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, Siberian peashrub, tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition.
and American plum. Western wheatgrass, switchgrass, sand reedgrass,
Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The sideoats grama, pubescent wheatgrass, intermediate
cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked wheatgrass, and blue grama are suitable for seeding. The
pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can grass selected should meet the seasonal requirements of
be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape livestock. It can be seeded into a firm prepared seedbed.
cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen- A grass drill should be used. Seeding early in spring has
tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop- proven most successful.
ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. Windbreaks and environmental plantings are well
This soil is poorly suited to urban and recreational suited to this soil. Flooding and moisture competition
development because of the susceptibility to flooding. from grass and weeds are the principal hazards in
Ca ability subclass IIw irrigated. establishing tree and shrub plantings. Summer fallowing a
26 Haverson loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes. This is a
tivation for weed control are needed to insure establish-
year' in advance in nonirrigated areas and continued cul-
deep, well drained soil on low terraces and flood plains at
elevations of 4,500 to 4,800 feet. It formed in stratified ment and survival of plantings. Supplemental irrigation
may be needed. Trees that are best suited and have good
calcareous alluvium. Included in mapping are small areas
survival are Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar,
of soils that have fine sandy loam and sandy loam under-
lying material and small areas of soils that have sand and ponderosa pine, Russian-olive, and hackberry. The shrubs
best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, Siberian peashrub,
gravel within a depth of 40 inches.
and American plum.
Typically the surface layer of this Haverson soil is
Wildlife is an important secondary use of this soil. The
grayish brown loam about 4 inches thick. The underlying
cropland areas provide favorable habitat for ring-necked
material to a depth of 60 inches is pale brown loam
pheasant and mourning dove. Many nongame species can
stratified with thin lenses of loamy sand and clay loam.
be attracted by establishing areas for nesting and escape
Permeability is moderate. Available water capacity is
cover. For pheasants, undisturbed nesting cover is essen-
high. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more.
tial and should be included in plans for habitat develop-
Surface runoff is slow to medium, and the erosion hazard
is low. ment, especially in areas of intensive agriculture. Range-
land wildlife, for example, the pronghorn antelope, can be
In irrigated areas this soil is suited to all crops com- attracted by developing livestock watering facilities,
monly grown in the area, including corn, sugar beets, managing livestock grazing, and reseeding where needed.
beans, alfalfa, small grain, potatoes, and onions. An exam- This soil is poorly suited to urban and recreational
ple of a suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa development because of the susceptibility to flooding.
followed by corn, corn for silage, sugar beets, small grain, Capability subclass Ile irrigated, IVe nonirrigated;
or beans. Land leveling, ditch lining, and installing Loamy Plains range site.
pipelines may be needed for proper water applications. 27—Heldt silty clay, 1 to 3 percent slopes. This is a
All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir- deep, moderately well drained soil on plains at elevations
rigation is the most common. Barnyard manure and com- of 4,950 to 5,050 feet. It formed in alluvial sediment
mercial fertilizer are needed for top yields. derived from shale. Included in mapping are small areas
In nonirrigated areas this soil is suited to winter wheat, of soils that have a clay loam or silt loam subsoil and sub-
barley, and sorghum. Most of the acreage is planted to stratum.
winter wheat. The predicted average yield is 28 bushels Typically the surface layer is light brownish gray and
per acre. The soil is summer fallowed in alternate years light yellowish brown silty clay about 7 inches thick. The
to allow moisture accumulation. Generally precipitation is subsoil is light brownish gray silty clay about 27 inches
too low for beneficial use of fertilizer. thick. The substratum to a depth of 60 inches is silty clay.
Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum til- Permeability is slow. Available water capacity is high.
lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Surface
Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is moderate.
The potential native vegetation is dominated by In irrigated areas this soil is suited to crops commonly
western wheatgrass. Blue grama, switchgrass, sand grown in the area, such as corn, sugar beets, beans, alfal-
reedgrass, big bluestem, slender wheatgrass, indiangrass, fa, and small grain. The high clay content generally
and green needlegrass are also present. Potential produc- restricts some crops.
1
50 SOIL SURVEY
sugar beets, small grain, or beans. Few conservation prac- The potential native vegetation is dominated by blue
tices are needed to maintain top yields. grama. Several mid grasses, such as western wheatgrass
All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir- and needleandthread, are also present. Potential produc-
rigation is the most common. Barnyard manure and corn- tion ranges from 1,600 pounds per acre in favorable years
mercial fertilizer are needed for top yields. to 1,000 pounds in unfavorable years. As range condition
Windbreaks and environmental plantings generally are deteriorates, the mid grasses decrease; blue grama, buf-
well suited to this soil. Summer fallow a year before falograss, snakeweed, yucca, and fringed sage increase;
planting and continued cultivation for weed control are and forage production drops. Undesirable weeds and an-
needed to insure establishment and survival of plantings. nuals invade the site as range condition becomes poorer.
Trees that are best suited and have good survival are Management of vegetation on this soil should be based
Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, ponderosa on taking half and leaving half of the total annual produc-
pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and hackberry. The tion. Seeding is desirable if the range is in poor condition.
shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, Siberian Sideoats grama, little bluestem, western wheatgrass, blue
peashrub, and American plum. grama, pubescent wheatgrass, and crested wheatgrass are
Openland wildlife, such as pheasant, mourning dove, suitable for seeding. The grass selected should meet the
and cottontail, are best suited to this soil. Wildlife habitat seasonal requirements of livestock. It can be seeded into
development, including tree and shrub plantings and a clean, firm sorghum stubble, or it can be drilled into a
grass plantings to serve as nesting areas, should be suc- firm prepared seedbed. Seeding early in spring has
cessful without irrigation in most years. Under irrigation, proven most successful.
good wildlife habitat can be established, benefiting many Windbreaks and environmental plantings are generally
kinds of openland wildlife. well suited to this soil. Summer fallow a year before
This soil has good potential for urban and recreational planting and continued cultivation for weed control are
development. The chief limiting soil features for urban needed to insure establishment and survival of plantings.
development are the shrink-swell potential of the subsoil Trees that are best suited and have good survival are
as it wets and dries and the limited capacity of the soil to Rocky Mountain juniper, eastern redcedar, ponderosa
support a load. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capa- pine, Siberian elm, Russian-olive, and hackberry. The
bi ' class I irrigated. shrubs best suited are skunkbush sumac, lilac, Siberian
$_
9 Weld loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes. This is a deep, peashrub, and American plum.
we drained soil on smooth plains at elevations of 4,850 to Openland wildlife, such as pheasant, mourning dove,
5,000 feet. It formed in eolian deposits. Included in and cottontail, are best suited to this soil. Wildlife habitat
mapping are small areas of soils that have a subsoil of development, including tree and shrub plantings and
loam and light clay loam. Also included are some leveled grass plantings to serve as nesting areas, should be suc-
areas. cessful without irrigation during most years. Under ir-
Typically the surface layer of this Weld soil is brown rigation, good wildlife habitat can be established, benefit-
loam about 8 inches thick. The subsoil is brown and pale ing many kinds of openland wildlife.
brown heavy clay loam and light clay about 20 inches This soil has good potential for urban and recreational
thick. The substratum to a depth of 60 inches is silt loam. development. The chief limiting soil features for urban
Permeability is slow. Available water capacity is high. development are the shrink-swell potential of the subsoil
The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Surface as it wets and dries and the limited capacity of the soil to
runoff is slow, and the erosion hazard is low. support a load. Lawns, shrubs, and trees grow well. Capa-
In irrigated areas this soil is suited to all crops com- bility subclass IIe irrigated, Inc nonirrigated; Loamy
monly grown in the area, including corn, sugar beets (fig. Plains range site.
8), beans, alfalfa, small grain, and onions. An example of a 80—Weld loam, 3 to 5 percent slopes. This is a deep,
suitable cropping system is 3 to 4 years of alfalfa fol- well drained soil on plains at elevations of 4,850 to 5,000
lowed by corn, corn for silage, sugar beets, small grain, or feet. It formed in eolian deposits. Included in mapping are
beans. Land leveling, ditch lining, and installing pipelines small areas of soils that have a subsoil of loam and light
are needed for proper water applications. clay loam.
All methods of irrigation are suitable, but furrow ir- Typically the surface layer is brown loam about 8
rigation is the most common. Barnyard manure and com- inches thick. The subsoil is brown and pale brown heavy
mercial fertilizer are needed for top yields. clay loam and light clay about 18 inches thick. The sub-
This soil is well suited to winter wheat, barley, and stratum to a depth of 60 inches is silt loam.
sorghum if it is summer fallowed in alternate years. Permeability is slow. Available water capacity is high.
Winter wheat is the principal crop. The predicted average The effective rooting depth is 60 inches or more. Surface
yield is 33 bushels per acre. If the crop is winterkilled, runoff is medium, and the erosion hazard is moderate.
spring wheat can be seeded. Generally precipitation is too In irrigated areas this soil is suited to most of the crops
low for beneficial use of fertilizer. commonly grown in the area, such as corn, alfalfa, wheat,
Stubble mulch farming, striperopping, and minimum til- and barley. Sugar beets are often grown. The soil is
lage are needed to control soil blowing and water erosion. suited to irrigated pasture. Ditch lining and installing
"Terracing also may be needed to control water erosion. pipelines are needed for proper water application.
-4411
104 SOIL SURVEY
TABLE 7•--SANITARY FACILITIES
[Some of the terms used in this table to describe restrictive soil features are defined in the Glossary. See
text for definitions of "slight," "moderate," "good," "fair," and other terms used to rate soils.
Absence of an entry means soil was not rated]
Soil name and Septic tank Sewage lagoon Trench Area Daily cover
map symbol absorption areas sanitary sanitary for landfill
fields landfill landfill
1 , 2 Slight Severe: Severe: Slight Fair:
Altvan seepage. seepage. thin layer.
3*:
Aquolls Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Poor:
floods, floods, floods, wetness. wetness.
wetness, wetness. wetness.
Aquents Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Poor:
floods, floods, floods, wetness. wetness.
wetness. wetness. wetness.
4*:
Aquolls Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Poor:
floods, floods, floods, wetness. wetness.
wetness. wetness. wetness.
Aquepts Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Poor:
floods, floods, floods, wetness. wetness.
wetness. wetness. wetness.
5, 6 Slight Severe: Severe: Severe: Good.
Ascalon seepage. seepage. seepage.
7 Slight Severe: Severe: Severe: Good.
Ascalon slope, seepage. seepage.
seepage.
8, 9 Slight Severe: Severe: Severe: Good.
Ascalon seepage. seepage. seepage.
10 Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Fair:
Bankard floods. floods, floods, floods. too sandy.
seepage, seepage.
11 , 12 Slight Severe: Severe: Severe: Good.
Bresser seepage. seepage. seepage.
13 Moderate: Severe: Severe: Severe: Poor:
Cascajo slope. slope, seepage. seepage. small stones.
seepage,
small stones.
14, 15 16 Slight Moderate: Slight Slight Good.
Co y seepage.
17 Slight Severe: Slight Slight Good.
Colby slope.
18
olby Slight Severe: Slight Slight Good.
slope.
Adena Moderate: Moderate: Slight Slight ',Good.
peres slowly. seepage,
slope.
19 Moderate: Severe: Moderate: Moderate: )Good.
Colombo floods. floods. floods. floods.
20 Slight Moderate: Slight Slight ',Good.
Colombo slope,
seepage.
See footnote at end of table.
r
WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, SOUTHERN PART 105
TABLE 7.--SANITARY FACILITIES--Continued
^ Area Daily cover
Soil name and Septic tank Sewage lagoon Trench
I
sanitary sanitary for landfill
fieldson
map symbol absorption areas landfill landfill
elds
Severe: Severe: Slight Fair:
21 Severe: too clayey.
D acono percs slowly. seepage. seepage.
23 Moderate: Moderate:
Slight Slight Good.
Fort Collins percs slowly. seepage.
24 Moderate: Moderate: Slight
Slight Good.
Fort Collins percs slowly. seepage,
seepa
� Severe: Severe:
Severe: Severe: Good.
25 72F floods. floods. floods.
Ha son floods.
Moderate: Severe: Slight Poor:
27 28 Severe: too clayey. too clayey.
Heldtpercs slowly. slope.
29, 30 Slight Severe:
Severe: Severe: Good.
Julesburg seepage, seepage. seepage.
31 Slight
Moderate: Slight Slight Good.
Kim seepage.
32, 33 Slight
Moderate: Slight Slight Good.
Kim seepage,
slope.
34 Slight Severe:
Slight Slight Good.
Kim slope.
*' Severe: Severe: Poor:
3 Loup Severe: S wetness, wetness.wetness,
wetness, wetness, floods,
floods. seepage, floods,
floods. seepage. seepage.
Severe: Severe: Poor:
Severe: Swetne: too sandy.
Bollwetness, wetness, wetness,
wetness, floods, floods.
floods. seepage, seepage.
floods.
36* Moderate: Poor:
',Severe: Severe: Severe: too clayey,
Midway depth to rock, depth to rock, slope. y y,
percs slowly, too clayey thin layer.
depth to rack. slope. y y•
Severe: Severe: Moderate: Severe:
Shingle Severe:
depth to rock. slope, depth to rock. slope. thin layer.
depth to rock.
37, 38 Severe: Severe:
Severe: Severe: Fair:
Nelson depth to rock. depth to rock, seepage.
depth o rock, seepage. thin layer.
seepage. ee page
Moderate: Slight Slight Fair:
39 Severe: too clayey.
Nunn percs slowly. excess humus.
Moderate: Slight Slight Fair:
40 Severe: too clayey.
Nunn percs slowly. excess humus,
slope.
Moderate: Slight Slight Fair:
41 Severe: too clayey.
Nunn percs slowly. excess humus.
Slight Fair:
42 Severe: Moderate: Slight too clayey.
Nunn percs slowly. excess humus,
slope.
See footnote at end of table.
f
WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, SOUTHERN PART 107
TABLE 7.--SANITARY FACILITIES--Continued
name and Septic tank Sewage lagoon Trench Area Daily cover
map symbol absorption areas sanitary sanitary for landfill
fields landfill landfill
71':
Loup Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Poor:
wetness, wetness, wetness, wetness, wetness.
floods. seepage, seepage, seepage,
floods. floods. floods.
72, 73 Slight Severe: Slight Slight Good.
Vona seepage.
74 Slight Severe: Slight Slight Good.
Vona seepage,
slope.
75, 76, 77 Slight Severe: Slight Slight Good.
Vona i seepage.
78 Moderate: Moderate: Slight Slight Good.
Weld peres slowly. seepage.
80 Moderate: Moderate: Slight Slight Good.
O eld peres slowly. slope,
seepage.
81':
Wiley Moderate: Moderate: Slight Slight Fair:
peres slowly. seepage. too clayey.
Colby Slight Moderate: Slight Slight Good.
seepage.
82', 83':
WiYw Moderate: Moderate: Slight Slight Fair:
peres slowly. seepage, too clayey.
slope.
Colby Slight Moderate: Slight Slight Good.
seepage.
* See map unit description for the composition and behavior of the map unit.
•
1
i 1
WELD COUNTY, COLORADO, SOUTHERN PART 103
TABLE 6.--BUILDING SITE DEVELOPMENT--Continued
Soil name and Shallow Dwellings Dwellings Small Local roads
map symbol excavations without with commercial and streets
basements basements buildings
66, 67 Moderate: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe:
Ulm too clayey. shrink-swell. shrink-swell. shrink-swell. low strength,
shrink-swell.
68* Severe: Moderate: Moderate: Moderate: Moderate:
Ustic small stones, slope. slope. slope. slope.
Torriorthents cutbanks cave.
69 Severe: Slight Slight Slight Slight.
Valent cutbanks cave.
70 Severe: Slight Slight Moderate: Slight.
Valent cutbanks cave. slope.
71*:
Valent Severe: Slight Slight Moderate: Slight.
cutbanks cave. slope.
Loup Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe:
wetness, wetness, wetness, wetness, wetness.
cutbanks cave. floods. floods. floods.
72 Slight Slight Slight Slight Moderate:
Vona low strength.
73, 74 Slight Slight Slight Moderate: Moderate:
Vona slope. low strength.
75, 76 Slight Slight Slight Slight Moderate:
Vona low strength.
.—.77 Slight Slight Slight Moderate: Moderate:
lona slope. low strength.
78, 79 Slight Moderate: Moderate: Moderate: Moderate:
Wel low strength, low strength, low strength, low strength,
shrink-swell. shrink-swell. shrink-swell. shrink-swell,
frost action.
80 Slight Moderate: Moderate: Moderate: Moderate:
Weld low strength, low strength, low strength, low strength,
shrink-swell. shrink-swell. slope, shrink-swell,
shrink-swell. frost action.
81*, 82*:
Wiley Slight Moderate: Moderate: Moderate: ',Moderate:
low strength, low strength, low strength, low strength,
shrink-swell. shrink-swell. shrink-swell. shrink-swell.
Colby Slight Slight Slight Slight Moderate:
low strength.
83*:
Wiley Slight Moderate: Moderate: Moderate: Moderate:
low strength, low strength, low strength, low strength,
shrink-swell. shrink-swell. slope, shrink-swell.
shrink-swell .
Colby Slight Slight Slight Moderate: Moderate:
slope. low strength.
* See map unit description for the composition and behavior of the map unit.
P
RECOMMENDED PRACTICES FOR GRASS SEEDING
COVER CROP: If possible, plant a cover crop of hybrid or long season grain sorghum, or forage sorghum from
mid-May to mid-June before planting grass during winter. This cover will hold the soil and grass seed in place
while the grass becomes established. If necessary, mow the cover crop before physiological maturity is reached
to a height of 12"to 18"to prevent sorghum seed from sprouting next summer. Seeding rates should be four to
eight pounds per acre,with the higher seeding rates used on sandy soils. Planting should be done from
northeast to southwest if possible,or west to east if not.
PLANTING: Sometime between November 1 and April 30 when the ground is not frozen, plant the grass 1/4 to
3/4 inches deep in seven inch to twelve inch rows. Planting should be done from northeast to southwest if
possible, or from west to east if not. Use a grass drill equipped with an agitator box,depth bands, and double
disk furrow openers with the drop tube placement directly between the disks. Use the seeding rates shown below
if the seed will be planted with a grass drill. If the site is too steep or rocky to use a grass drill,the seed can be
broadcast over the site using twice the rate shown below. The soil should be raked and packed after broadcast
seeding.
MULCHING: New seedings not planted into a cover crop should be protected by a mulch of 4000 ponds per acre
of weed-free native grass hay crimped into the soil surface. Crimping the hay into the soil surface will help
prevent it and the grass seed from blowing away. It will also slow evaporation which will leave more water for
seed germination, and will retard weed germination and growth. Weed free straw can be used instead of grass
hay if grass hay is not available. Tackifier can be sprayed on the mulch to prevent blowing if crimping is not
practical.
WATER EROSION: Mulching may not be enough to prevent erosion in steep slopes or in areas of periodic water
flow. In these areas, install silt fences perpendicular to the direction of water flow. This will help to prevent water
from building up enough force as it flows to wash out the mulch or grass seed.
FERTILIZER: Because many weed species emerge before the grass will, any fertilizer applied will be utilized by
the weeds, making them more competitive. Fertilizer is recommended only after a soil test is performed to
determine the amount to apply.
WEED CONTROL: Mowing is the recommended method of weed control until the grass seedlings have reached
the five leaf growth stage. Mowing off the tops of the grass plants should be avoided. Timeliness of any weed
control operation is essential. Contact Colorado State University Cooperative Extension for herbicide
recommendations and best time for weed control. Weeds will need to be controlled by mowing or herbicides until
the grasses are established, usually the first four years after planting for native species(two years for introduced
species). Once established,the grass can withstand traffic and grazing.
Mix A for Careers Worldwide
SPECIES VARIETY PLS# PERCENT PLS#/AC
Crested wheatgrass Nordan 5.0 50 3
Intermediate wheatgrass Oahe or Amur 10.0 50 5
These are general recommendations which should be tailored to each individual site according to future use,
length of desired establishment time, available water, etc. For further information, contact the Natural Resources
Conservation Service at(303)659-4177.
THE NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND PROVIDER
4 ta1/4.
RECOMMENDED PRACTICES FOR GRASS SEEDING
COVER CROP: If possible, plant a cover crop of hybrid or long season grain sorghum,or forage sorghum from
mid-May to mid-June before planting grass during winter. This cover will hold the soil and grass seed in place
while the grass becomes established. If necessary, mow the cover crop before physiological maturity is reached
to a height of 12"to 18"to prevent sorghum seed from sprouting next summer, Seeding rates should be four to
eight pounds per acre,with the higher seeding rates used on sandy soils. Planting should be done from
northeast to southwest if possible,or west to east if not.
PLANTING: Sometime between November 1 and April 30 when the ground is not frozen, plant the grass 1/4 to
3/4 inches deep in seven inch to twelve inch rows. Planting should be done from northeast to southwest if
possible, or from west to east if not. Use a grass drill equipped with an agitator box, depth bands, and double
disk furrow openers with the drop tube placement directly between the disks. Use the seeding rates shown below
if the seed will be planted with a grass drill. If the site is too steep or rocky to use a grass drill,the seed can be
broadcast over the site using twice the rate shown below. The soil should be raked and packed after broadcast
seeding.
MULCHING: New seedings not planted into a cover crop should be protected by a mulch of 4000 ponds per acre
of weed-free native grass hay crimped into the soil surface. Crimping the hay into the soil surface will help
prevent it and the grass seed from blowing away. It will also slow evaporation which will leave more water for
seed germination, and will retard weed germination and growth. Weed free straw can be used instead of grass
hay if grass hay is not available. Tackifier can be sprayed on the mulch to prevent blowing if crimping is not
practical.
WATER EROSION: Mulching may not be enough to prevent erosion in steep slopes or in areas of periodic water
flow. In these areas, install silt fences perpendicular to the direction of water flow. This will help to prevent water
from building up enough force as it flows to wash out the mulch or grass seed.
r
FERTILIZER: Because many weed species emerge before the grass will,any fertilizer applied will be utilized by
the weeds, making them more competitive. Fertilizer is recommended only after a soil test is performed to
determine the amount to apply.
WEED CONTROL: Mowing is the recommended method of weed control until the grass seedlings have reached
the five leaf growth stage. Mowing off the tops of the grass plants should be avoided. Timeliness of any weed
control operation is essential. Contact Colorado State University Cooperative Extension for herbicide
recommendations and best time for weed control. Weeds will need to be controlled by mowing or herbicides until
the grasses are established, usually the first four years after planting for native species (two years for introduced
species). Once established,the grass can withstand traffic and grazing.
Mix B for Careers Worldwide
SPECIES VARIETY PLS# PERCENT PLS#/AC
Western wheatgrass Arriba or Barton 8.0 35 2.8
Sideoats grama Butte or Vaughn 4.5 25 1.1
Blue grama Hachita or Lovington 1.5 10 0.2
Green Needlegrass Lodorm 5.0 10 0.5
Switchgrass Blackwell or Grenville 2.5 20 0.5
Winterfat Any Adapted Variety 0.3 0.3
These are general recommendations which should be tailored to each individual site according to future use,
�... length of desired establishment time, available water, etc. For further information, contact the Natural Resources
Conservation Service at(303)659-4177.
THE NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND PROVIDER
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