Mona to Oquirrh Transmission

NEPA Document Collection for: Mona to Oquirrh Transmission
EIS

Mona to Oquirrh Transmission Corridor Project and Proposed Pony Express Resource Management Plan Amendment

Proposed Action

The Proponent proposes to construct, operate, and maintain a 69-mile long, single-circuit 500-kilovolt (kV) transmission line (which would be operated initially at 345kV) from the existing Mona Substation near the community of Mona in Juab County, Utah, to a proposed Mona Annex Substation (to be located south of the existing Mona Substation) that would be designed to accommodate 500, 345, and 138,V transmission lines, then on to a proposed future Limber Substation (to be located in the Tooele Valley in Utah), also designed to accommodate 500, 345, and 138kV transmission lines. Two double-circuit 345kV lines are proposed from the Limber Substation. One line would extend 31 miles to the existing Oquirrh Substation in West Jordan, Utah, and the second line would extend 45 miles to the existing Terminal Substation in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Permanent facilities would include: A proposed 500/345/138kV substation (Mona Annex) near the existing Mona Substation; A future 500/345/138kV substation (Limber) southwest of the Tooele Army Depot; A single-circuit 500kV transmission line (initially operated at 345kV) that connects the existing Mona Substation to the proposed Mona Annex Substation, then on to the future Limber Substation, which would require a 250-foot-wide right-of-way; A double-circuit 345kV transmission line from the future Limber Substation to the existing Oquirrh Substation, which would require a 150-foot-wide right-of-way; A double-circuit 345kV transmission line from the future Limber Substation to the existing Terminal Substation, which would require a 150-foot-wide right-of-way; Communication regeneration facilities associated with the transmission lines and substation; New access roads to all transmission line structures were there is no existing access.

Conditions of Approval

The decision is conditioned on implementation of mitigation measures and stipulations that are included in the right-of-way grant and listed in the Final Plan of Development (POD). The Final POD details the methods and procedures that would be used in construction of the Project. The Final POD includes instructions to contractors, construction crews, agency personnel, resource inspectors, and monitors for construction, operation, and maintenance of the Project. The Final POD also contains a Project description, resource protection measures and best management practices (BMPs); specifies environmental compliance field activities; provides a description of construction and operation activities; specifies land use and access requirements; and provides mapping of sensitive resources.

The POD is a two volume document. Copies of the POD are available at the BLM Salt Lake Field Office and Fillmore Field Office for public viewing.

• BLM Salt Lake Field Office, 2370 South 2300 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84119
• BLM Fillmore Field Office, 95 East 500 North, Fillmore, UT 84631

Data Completion Notes

BLM Website: http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/salt_lake/planning/mona_to_oquirrh_transmission.html Pacificorp Website: http://www.pacificorp.com/tran/tp/eg/gc/scmto.html

Documents

EA/EIS Report:

• Mona to Oquirrh Record of Decision.pdf
• ROD
• Final EIS

 

Resource Analysis

Resource	Not Present	Present, Not Affected	Present, Potentially Affected	Not Indicated	Comment	Applicant Proposed Mitigation	Agency Imposed Mitigation

Access and Transportation NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Access/Transportation: All construction vehicle movement outside the right-of-way would be restricted to pre-designated access, contractor acquired access, or public roads. The spatial limits of construction activities would be predetermined, with activity restricted to and confined within those limits. No paint or permanent discoloring agents indicating survey or construction limits would be applied to rocks, vegetation, structures, fences, etc. Fences, gates, and walls would be replaced, repaired, or reclaimed to their original condition as required by the landowner or the land-management agency in the event that they are removed, damaged, or destroyed by construction activities. Fences would be braced before cutting. Temporary gates or enclosures would be installed only with the permission of the landowner or the land-management agency and would be removed/reclaimed following construction. Cattle guards would be installed where new permanent access roads cut through fences on BLM-administered lands.

Air Quality NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Air Quality: All requirements of those entities having jurisdiction over air quality matters would be adhered to. Any necessary dust control plans would be developed, and permits for construction activities would be obtained. Open burning of construction trash would not be allowed, unless permitted by appropriate authorities.

Cultural Resources NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Cultural Resources: Prior to construction, the Compliance Inspection Contractor (CIC) would instruct all personnel on the protection of cultural, ecological, and other natural resources including: (a) federal and state laws regarding antiquities and plants and wildlife, including collection and removal; (b) the importance of these resources; and (c) the purpose and necessity of protecting them. In consultation with appropriate land-management agencies and state historic preservation officers and in accordance with the Programmatic Agreement (PA), specific mitigation measures for cultural resources would be developed and implemented to mitigate any identified adverse impacts. These may include Project modifications to avoid adverse impacts, monitoring of construction activities, and data recovery studies.

CloseSelective Mitigation Measures for Cultural Resources: In areas determined by the land management agency, where soils and vegetation are particularly sensitive to disturbance, existing access roads/trails would not be widened or otherwise upgraded for construction and maintenance, except in areas where repairs are necessary to make existing roads/trails passable. Within the limits of standard tower design, structures would be located as to allow conductors to clearly span identified sensitive features. Structures and access roads would be placed so as to avoid sensitive features including, but not limited to, wetlands, riparian areas, water courses, hazardous substance remediation and cultural sites. Avoidance measures may include selective tower placement, spanning sensitive features, or realigning access routes. Helicopter placement of towers during construction and helicopter patrol and maintenance may be used where practicable to reduce surface impacts in environmental constraint areas or steep terrain locations.

Geology and Minerals NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseSelective Mitigation Measures for Geological and Minerals: In areas determined by the land management agency, where soils and vegetation are particularly sensitive to disturbance, existing access roads/trails would not be widened or otherwise upgraded for construction and maintenance, except in areas where repairs are necessary to make existing roads/trails passable. To avoid disturbance to sensitive resources (i.e., streams, riparian areas, trails, etc.) as determined by the land managing agency, access roads would not be constructed in those areas where practicable. Rather, construction and maintenance traffic would use existing roads or cross-country access routes (including the right-of-way). To minimize ground disturbance, construction traffic routes must be clearly marked with temporary markers such as easily visible flagging. The construction routes or other means of avoidance would be negotiated with landowners and land managing agency in advance of use. To minimize ground disturbance and/or reduce scarring (visual contrast) of the landscape, the alignment of any new access roads or cross-country routes in designated areas would follow the landform contours where practicable, providing that such alignment does not impact other resource values. Helicopter placement of towers during construction and helicopter patrol and maintenance may be used where practicable to reduce surface impacts in environmental constraint areas or steep terrain locations. In areas where no grading would be needed to access work areas, the Construction Contractor would use overland access to the greatest extent possible. Overland access would consist of “drive and crush” and/or “clear and cut” travel. Drive and crush is vehicular travel to access a site without significantly modifying the landscape. Vegetation is crushed but not cropped. Soil is compacted, but no surface soil is removed. Clear and cut is considered as brushing off (removal) of all vegetation in order to improve or provide suitable access for equipment. All vegetation is removed using above ground cutting methods that leave the root crown intact. Prior to work beginning, overland access routes would be staked to a minimum width of 14-feet-wide and as specified in the POD.

Invasive, Nonnative Species NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Invasive, Nonnative Species: To eliminate the spread of noxious/invasive weeds throughout the BLM field office area, a Noxious Weed Management Plan has been developed and incorporated into the final POD, which will be approved by the BLM prior to the issuance of a right-of-way grant.

Lands and Realty NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseSelective Mitigation Measures for Land Use: In areas determined by the land management agency, where soils and vegetation are particularly sensitive to disturbance, existing access roads/trails would not be widened or otherwise upgraded for construction and maintenance, except in areas where repairs are necessary to make existing roads/trails passable. To minimize disturbance to timber resources and reduce visual contrast, clearing of trees in and adjacent to the right-of-way would be minimized to the extent practicable to satisfy conductor-clearance requirements (i.e., North American Electric Reliability Corporation/Department of Energy guidelines). Trees and other vegetation would be removed selectively (e.g., edge feathering) to blend the edge of the right-of-way into adjacent vegetation patterns, as practicable and appropriate. Trees would be selectively removed in riparian habitats and in the Great Basin Desert to protect biological resources. To limit new or improved accessibility into the area, all access that is not required for maintenance would be closed using the most effective and least environmentally damaging methods appropriate to that area and developed with the landowner or land manager. Methods for road closure or management include installing and locking gates, obstructing the path (e.g., earthen berms, boulders), revegetating the surface of the roadbed to make it less apparent, or restoring the road to its natural contour and vegetation. As feasible, the selection of the most appropriate of these methods will be done in consultation with the landowner or land manager. Within the limits of standard tower design, structures would be located as to allow conductors to clearly span identified sensitive features. Structures and access roads would be placed so as to avoid sensitive features including, but not limited to, wetlands, riparian areas, water courses, hazardous substance remediation and cultural sites. Avoidance measures may include selective tower placement, spanning sensitive features, or realigning access routes. To reduce visual contrast and/or potential operational conflicts, standard tower design would be modified to correspond with spacing of existing transmission line structures of the same voltage where feasible and within limits of standard tower design. The normal span would be modified to correspond with existing towers, but not necessarily at every location. To reduce visual impacts, potential impacts on recreation values, and safety at highways and trail crossings, towers are to be placed at the maximum feasible distance from the crossing within limits of standard tower design. Helicopter placement of towers during construction and helicopter patrol and maintenance may be used where practicable to reduce surface impacts in environmental constraint areas or steep terrain locations. To reduce visual contrast and avoid sensitive features (including, but not limited to, land uses, biological resources, and cultural sites), clearing of the right-of-way would be minimized. In limited instances, the right-of-way width may be modified (within the limits of conductor-clearance requirements and standard tower design) to protect sensitive resources, but current land uses would be allowed to continue unabated, provided the use meets applicable standards. Where feasible, access roads that traverse sensitive habitats (i.e., crucial winter range) would be gated or otherwise blocked to limit public access.

Native American Concerns NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Migratory Birds: Avoid activities during the migratory bird nesting season, typically between April 15 and July 15 however, dates may vary depending upon the species and current environmental conditions based on results of survey and biological monitor clearance. Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds. (Migratory Bird Executive Order 13186, January 10, 2001). When nesting bird surveys are required, focus on BLM Sensitive Species, and the 2002 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services list of Birds of Conservation Concern/Partners in Flight (BCC/PIF) list. Available for downloading at the web address below. http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/reports/BCC2002.pdf; Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds. (Migratory Bird Executive Order 13186, January 10, 2001)

Paleontological Resources NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseSelective Mitigation Measures for Paleontological Resources: Helicopter placement of towers during construction and helicopter patrol and maintenance may be used where practicable to reduce surface impacts in environmental constraint areas or steep terrain locations.

Prime or Unique Farmlands NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Farmlands: On agricultural land, the right-of-way would be aligned, insofar as is practical, to reduce the impact to farm operations and agricultural production. In cultivated agricultural areas, soil compacted by construction activities would be decompacted. Construction activities would occur as practical to minimize impacts on agricultural operations.

Public Health and Safety NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Public Health and Safety: Towers and/or conductors and/or shield wires would be marked with high-visibility devices (i.e., marker balls or other marking devices) where required by governmental agencies with jurisdiction (i.e., Federal Aviation Administration [FAA]). Tower heights would be less than 200 feet to avoid the need for aircraft obstruction lighting. The Proponent would continue to follow studies performed on electromagnetic fields (EMF) research. The Proponent relies on the findings of public health specialists and international scientific organizations for guidelines regarding EMF. Transmission line materials that have been designed and tested to minimize corona would be used. A bundle configuration and larger conductors would be used to limit the audible noise, radio interference, and television interference due to corona. Tension would be maintained on all insulator assemblies to ensure positive contact between insulators, thereby avoiding sparking. Caution shall be exercised during construction to avoid scratching or nicking the conductor surface, which may provide points for corona to occur. The Proponent would apply grounding or other methods where possible to eliminate problems of induced currents and voltages onto conductive objects sharing the same right-of-way, to meet the appropriate codes. A Fire Protection Plan has been developed and incorporated into the POD, which will be approved by the BLM prior to the issuance of a right-of-way grant. The holder or its contractors would notify the BLM of any fires and comply with all rules and regulations administered by the BLM concerning the use, prevention, and suppression of fires on federal lands, including any fire prevention orders that may be in effect at the time of the permitted activity. The holder or its contractors may be held liable for the cost of fire suppression, stabilization, and rehabilitation. In the event of a fire, personal safety would be the first priority of the holder or its contractors. The holder or its contractors would: Operate all other internal and external combustion engines (including off-highway vehicles, chainsaws, generators, heavy equipment, etc.) with a qualified spark arrester. Qualified spark arresters will be in a maintained and non-modified condition and meet U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service Standard 5100-1a, or the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Recommended Practices J335 or J350. Refer to 43 CFR §8343.1. Carry shovels, water, and fire extinguishers on all equipment and vehicles. Equipment will carry extinguishers rated ABC-10 pound minimum and vehicles will carry ABC-2.5 pound minimum. If a fire spreads beyond the suppression capability of workers with these tools, all will cease fire suppression action and leave the area immediately via pre-identified escape routes. Initiate fire suppression actions in the work area to prevent fire spread to or on federally administered lands. If fire ignitions cannot be prevented or contained immediately, or it may be foreseeable to exceed the immediate capability of workers, the operation must be modified or discontinued. No risk of ignition or re-ignition will exist upon leaving the operation area. Notify the Northern Utah Interagency Fire Center (801) 908-1901 (or 911) immediately of the location and status of any escaped fire. Prior to any operation involving potential sources of fire ignition from vehicles, equipment, or other means, weather forecasts and potential fire danger will be reviewed. Prevention measures to be taken each workday will be included in the specific job briefing. Consideration for additional mitigation or discontinuing the operation must be given in periods of extreme wind and dryness. Operate all vehicles on designated roads, or park in areas where vegetation is less than 8 inches tall. Vehicles, including the undercarriages, will be thoroughly washed prior to energy the site. Operate welding, grinding, or cutting activities in areas cleared of vegetation within range of the sparks for that particular action. A spark shield adequate for the sparks may be used to prevent sparks from carrying. A spotter equipped with a round-nose shovel and an ABC-rated pound fire extinguisher is required to watch for ignitions during and one hour after the activity. Water may be used to wet down surrounding vegetation but does not take the place of an adequate cleared area and spark shield. The transmission line would be regularly patrolled and properly maintained in compliance with applicable safety codes.

Soils NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Soils: In newly disturbed temporary work areas, the soil would be salvaged and would be distributed and contoured evenly over the surface of the disturbed area after construction completion. The soil surface would be left rough to help reduce potential wind erosion. Grading would be minimized by driving overland within pre-designated work areas whenever possible.

Special Status Species NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Special Status Species: Special status species or other species of particular concern would be considered in accordance with management policies set forth by appropriate land management agencies (e.g. BLM, UDWR, etc.). This would entail conducting surveys for plant and wildlife species of concern along the proposed transmission line route and associated facilities (e.g., access and spur roads, staging areas, etc.) as agreed upon by the agencies. In cases where such species are identified, appropriate action would be taken to avoid adverse impacts on the species and its habitat and may include altering the placement of roads or towers, where practical as approved by the landowner and CIC, and monitoring activities. Based on the results of pre-construction surveys, federal and state designated sensitive plants and/or habitat would be flagged and structures would be placed to allow spanning of these features, where feasible, within the limits of standard structure design.

Vegetation NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Vegetation: In construction areas where re-contouring is not required, vegetation would be left in place wherever possible, and original contour would be maintained to avoid excessive root damage and allow for re-sprouting in accordance with the Reclamation Plan. Vegetation that is not consistent with line safety and operation would be removed according to PacifiCorp Vegetation Management Standards. In construction areas (e.g., marshalling yards, tower site work areas, spur roads from existing access roads) where ground disturbance is significant or where re-contouring is required, surface reclamation would occur as required by the landowner or land management agency. The method of reclamation would normally consist of, but is not limited to, returning disturbed areas back to their natural contour, reseeding, installing cross drains for erosion control, placing water bars in the road, and filling ditches. All areas on BLM lands that are disturbed as a part of the construction and/or maintenance of the proposed power line would be drill seeded where practicable with a seed mixture appropriate for those areas unless an alternative method (e.g., broadcast seeding) is required due to slope or terrain. The BLM would prescribe a seed mixture that fits each range site. Drill seeding would be done in September or October to maximize the chance of success. The BLM may recommend broadcast seeding as an alternative method in some cases. In these cases, seed would be applied at 1.5 to 2 times the rate when broadcasted and the seed would be covered by a method such as harrowing or raking. A Reclamation, Revegetation and Monitoring Framework Plan identifying reclamation stipulations has been developed and incorporated in the Final Plan of Development (POD), which will be approved by the BLM prior to the issuance of a right-of-way grant. Prior to construction, the Compliance Inspection Contractor (CIC) would instruct all personnel on the protection of cultural, ecological, and other natural resources including: (a) federal and state laws regarding antiquities and plants and wildlife, including collection and removal; (b) the importance of these resources; and (c) the purpose and necessity of protecting them. During construction of the transmission lines, the right-of-way would be free of non-biodegradable debris. Slash would be left in place or disposed of in accordance with requirements of the land-management agency or landowner.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Vegetation: In construction areas where re-contouring is not required, vegetation would be left in place wherever possible, and original contour would be maintained to avoid excessive root damage and allow for re-sprouting in accord-ance with the Reclamation Plan. Vegetation that is not consistent with line safety and operation would be removed according to PacifiCorp Vegetation Management Standards. In construction areas (e.g., marshalling yards, tower site work areas, spur roads from existing access roads) where ground disturbance is significant or where re-contouring is required, surface reclamation would occur as required by the landowner or land management agency. The method of reclamation would normally consist of, but is not limited to, returning disturbed areas back to their natural contour, reseeding, installing cross drains for ero-sion control, placing water bars in the road, and filling ditches. All areas on BLM lands that are disturbed as a part of the construction and/or maintenance of the proposed pow-er line would be drill seeded where practicable with a seed mixture appropriate for those areas unless an alterna-tive method (e.g., broadcast seeding) is required due to slope or terrain. The BLM would prescribe a seed mixture that fits each range site. Drill seeding would be done in September or October to maximize the chance of success. The BLM may recommend broadcast seeding as an alternative method in some cases. In these cases, seed would be applied at 1.5 to 2 times the rate when broadcasted and the seed would be covered by a method such as har-rowing or raking. A Reclamation, Revegetation and Monitoring Framework Plan identifying reclamation stipulations has been de-veloped and incorporated in the Final Plan of Development (POD), which will be approved by the BLM prior to the issuance of a right-of-way grant. Prior to construction, the Compliance Inspection Contractor (CIC) would instruct all personnel on the protection of cultural, ecological, and other natural resources including: (a) federal and state laws regarding antiquities and plants and wildlife, including collection and removal; (b) the importance of these resources; and (c) the purpose and necessity of protecting them. During construction of the transmission lines, the right-of-way would be free of non-biodegradable debris. Slash would be left in place or disposed of in accordance with requirements of the land-management agency or landowner.

Visual Resources NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Visual Resources: Dull-galvanized steel for lattice towers and either dull-galvanized steel or self-weathering steel for monopoles, along with non-specular conductors would be used to reduce visual impacts.

CloseSelective Mitigation Measures for Visual Resources: In areas determined by the land management agency, where soils and vegetation are particularly sensitive to disturbance, existing access roads/trails would not be widened or otherwise upgraded for construction and maintenance, except in areas where repairs are necessary to make existing roads/trails passable. To avoid disturbance to sensitive resources (i.e., streams, riparian areas, trails, etc.) as determined by the land managing agency, access roads would not be constructed in those areas where practicable. Rather, construction and maintenance traffic would use existing roads or cross-country access routes (including the right-of-way). To minimize ground disturbance, construction traffic routes must be clearly marked with temporary markers such as easily visible flagging. The construction routes or other means of avoidance would be negotiated with landowners and land managing agency in advance of use. To minimize ground disturbance and/or reduce scarring (visual contrast) of the landscape, the alignment of any new access roads or cross-country routes in designated areas would follow the landform contours where practicable, providing that such alignment does not impact other resource values. To minimize disturbance to timber resources and reduce visual contrast, clearing of trees in and adjacent to the right-of-way would be minimized to the extent practicable to satisfy conductor-clearance requirements (i.e., North American Electric Reliability Corporation/Department of Energy guidelines). Trees and other vegetation would be removed selectively (e.g., edge feathering) to blend the edge of the right-of-way into adjacent vegetation patterns, as practicable and appropriate. Trees would be selectively removed in riparian habitats and in the Great Basin Desert to protect biological resources. To minimize visual contrast, the tower design may be modified or an alternative tower type may be used. To reduce visual contrast and/or potential operational conflicts, standard tower design would be modified to correspond with spacing of existing transmission line structures of the same voltage where feasible and within limits of standard tower design. The normal span would be modified to correspond with existing towers, but not necessarily at every location. To reduce visual impacts, potential impacts on recreation values, and safety at highways and trail crossings, towers are to be placed at the maximum feasible distance from the crossing within limits of standard tower design. Helicopter placement of towers during construction and helicopter patrol and maintenance may be used where practicable to reduce surface impacts in environmental constraint areas or steep terrain locations. To reduce visual contrast and avoid sensitive features (including, but not limited to, land uses, biological resources, and cultural sites), clearing of the right-of-way would be minimized. In limited instances, the right-of-way width may be modified (within the limits of conductor-clearance requirements and standard tower design) to protect sensitive resources, but current land uses would be allowed to continue unabated, provided the use meets applicable standards. In areas of steep terrain where grading is necessary, in rocky areas, or where soil color would create strong landscape contrasts, soil amendments, mineral emulsions, or asphalt emulsions (i.e., Permeon™ or approved equal) would be applied, or grading techniques such as slope rounding and slope scarification would be used to blend road and pad cuts into the landscape.

Wastes Hazardous or Solid NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Wastes Hazardous or Solids: Hazardous material shall not be drained onto the ground or into streams or drainage areas. Totally enclosed containment would be provided for all trash. All construction waste, including trash and litter, garbage, other solid waste, petroleum products, and other potentially hazardous materials would be removed to a disposal facility authorized to accept such materials. Refueling and storing potentially hazardous materials shall not occur within a 100-foot radius of a waterbody, a 200-foot radius of all identified private water wells, and a 400-foot radius of all identified municipal or community water supply wells. Spill preventative and containment measures or practices would be incorporated as needed. Where work would occur on Superfund sites listed in the National Priorities List (NPL), the Proponent must seek approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Work on contaminated sites must avoid remedial structures (i.e., capped areas, treatment, or monitoring wells, etc.) and workers must use adequate worker protection measures for working in contaminated areas.

Water Quality NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseSelective Mitigation Measures for Water Quality Surface and Ground: In areas determined by the land management agency, where soils and vegetation are particularly sensitive to disturbance, existing access roads/trails would not be widened or otherwise upgraded for construction and maintenance, except in areas where repairs are necessary to make existing roads/trails passable. To avoid disturbance to sensitive resources (i.e., streams, riparian areas, trails, etc.) as determined by the land managing agency, access roads would not be constructed in those areas where practicable. Rather, construction and maintenance traffic would use existing roads or cross-country access routes (including the right-of-way). To minimize ground disturbance, construction traffic routes must be clearly marked with temporary markers such as easily visible flagging. The construction routes or other means of avoidance would be negotiated with landowners and land managing agency in advance of use. Within the limits of standard tower design, structures would be located as to allow conductors to clearly span identified sensitive features. Structures and access roads would be placed so as to avoid sensitive features including, but not limited to, wetlands, riparian areas, water courses, hazardous substance remediation and cultural sites. Avoidance measures may include selective tower placement, spanning sensitive features, or realigning access routes.

Wetlands and Riparian Zones NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseSelective Mitigation Measures for Wetlands and Riparian Zones: In areas determined by the land management agency, where soils and vegetation are particularly sensitive to disturbance, existing access roads/trails would not be widened or otherwise upgraded for construction and maintenance, except in areas where repairs are necessary to make existing roads/trails passable. To avoid disturbance to sensitive resources (i.e., streams, riparian areas, trails, etc.) as determined by the land managing agency, access roads would not be constructed in those areas where practicable. Rather, construction and maintenance traffic would use existing roads or cross-country access routes (including the right-of-way). To minimize ground disturbance, construction traffic routes must be clearly marked with temporary markers such as easily visible flagging. The construction routes or other means of avoidance would be negotiated with landowners and land managing agency in advance of use. Within the limits of standard tower design, structures would be located as to allow conductors to clearly span identified sensitive features. Structures and access roads would be placed so as to avoid sensitive features including, but not limited to, wetlands, riparian areas, water courses, hazardous substance remediation and cultural sites. Avoidance measures may include selective tower placement, spanning sensitive features, or realigning access routes.

Wildlife Resources NEPA_Resource_Analysis"NEPA_Resource_Analysis" is not in the list (Not Present, Present, Not Affected, Present, Potentially Affected, Not Indicated) of allowed values for the "NEPA Resource Analysis" property.

CloseStandard Mitigation Measures for Wildlife: Prior to construction, the Compliance Inspection Contractor (CIC) would instruct all personnel on the protection of cultural, ecological, and other natural resources including: (a) federal and state laws regarding antiquities and plants and wildlife, including collection and removal; (b) the importance of these resources; and (c) the purpose and necessity of protecting them. The Proponent designs and constructs all new or rebuilt transmission facilities to its raptor-safe design standards, including Suggested Practices for Avian Protection on Power Lines; The State of the Art in 2006 (Edison Electric Institute and Avian Power Line Interaction Committee 2006); PacifiCorp’s Bird Management Program Guidelines, updated June 2006; and PacifiCorp’s substation guidelines. New substations or modified portions of existing substations must incorporate animal protections in accordance with PacifiCorp standards.

CloseSelective Mitigation Measures for Wildlife: To avoid disturbance to sensitive resources (i.e., streams, riparian areas, trails, etc.) as determined by the land managing agency, access roads would not be constructed in those areas where practicable. Rather, construction and maintenance traffic would use existing roads or cross-country access routes (including the right-of-way). To minimize ground disturbance, construction traffic routes must be clearly marked with temporary markers such as easily visible flagging. The construction routes or other means of avoidance would be negotiated with landowners and land managing agency in advance of use. To limit new or improved accessibility into the area, all access that is not required for maintenance would be closed using the most effective and least environmentally damaging methods appropriate to that area and developed with the landowner or land manager. Methods for road closure or management include installing and locking gates, obstructing the path (e.g., earthen berms, boulders), revegetating the surface of the roadbed to make it less apparent, or restoring the road to its natural contour and vegetation. As feasible, the selection of the most appropriate of these methods will be done in consultation with the landowner or land manager. Within the limits of standard tower design, structures would be located as to allow conductors to clearly span identified sensitive features. Structures and access roads would be placed so as to avoid sensitive features including, but not limited to, wetlands, riparian areas, water courses, hazardous substance remediation and cultural sites. Avoidance measures may include selective tower placement, spanning sensitive features, or realigning access routes. Helicopter placement of towers during construction and helicopter patrol and maintenance may be used where practicable to reduce surface impacts in environmental constraint areas or steep terrain locations. To reduce visual contrast and avoid sensitive features (including, but not limited to, land uses, biological resources, and cultural sites), clearing of the right-of-way would be minimized. In limited instances, the right-of-way width may be modified (within the limits of conductor-clearance requirements and standard tower design) to protect sensitive resources, but current land uses would be allowed to continue unabated, provided the use meets applicable standards. Construction and maintenance activities would be restricted in designated areas after receiving clearance from a biological monitor to minimize disturbance of wildlife during sensitive periods as follows: No construction or maintenance activities on mule deer and elk winter ranges from December 1 to April 30. No construction or maintenance activities on mule deer summer/fall ranges from May 1 to June 30. Spatial buffers and seasonal restrictions for nesting raptors in accordance with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Utah Field Office Guidelines for Raptor Protection From Human and Land Use Disturbances (construction restrictions range from December 1 to September 30, depending on the species). ‘’Sage Grouse’’ No surface occupancy within 0.5 mile of an occupied greater sage-grouse lek. No construction or maintenance activities within 0.5 mile of an occupied greater sage-grouse lek from March 1 to May 15. In all greater sage-grouse habitats, no construction and maintenance activities within 1 mile of an occupied lek from March 1 to July 15. In greater sage-grouse nesting and early brood-rearing habitats, no construction and maintenance activities within 4 miles of an occupied lek from march 1 to July 15. No construction and maintenance activities in greater sage-grouse winter concentration areas from December 1 to March 17. Shield wires and fiber optic ground wire along portions of the transmission line that have a high potential for avian collisions would be marked with flight diverters or other BLM-approved devices per agency requirements. Portions of the transmission lines that cross through or are adjacent to waterfowl and shorebird habitats and general migratory pathways associated with the Great Salt Lake may be marked to reduce the risk of avian collisions. The specific segments to be marked would be determined in consultation with the appropriate agencies. Where feasible, access roads that traverse sensitive habitats (i.e., crucial winter range) would be gated or otherwise blocked to limit public access.