Document Puyallup_doc_7c0d28e81b

APPENDIX J WEP MITIGATION AND MONITORING PLANS Appendix J1: Washington Expansion Project Erosion Control and Revegetation Plan Appendix J2: Draft Unanticipated Discovery of Contamination Plan Appendix J3: Washington Expansion Project Water Quality Monitoring Plan Appendix J4: Horizontal Directional Drilling Monitoring and Contingency Plan ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX J1: WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT EROSION CONTROL AND REVEGETATION PLAN ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Washington Expansion Project Erosion Control and Revegetation Plan May 2014 Prepared by Northwest Pipeline LLC ---PAGE BREAK--- Contents Section Page II Acronyms and Abbreviations iv 1 Introduction 1-1 1.1 Project Components 1-1 1.2 Schedule 1-1 2 Site Description 2-1 2.1 Pipeline Facilities 2-1 2.2 Existing Site Conditions 2-1 2.3 Proposed Pipeline Construction Activities 2-1 2.3.1 Preconstruction Survey 2-2 2.3.2 Installation of Erosion Control BMPs 2-2 2.3.3 Clearing and Grading 2-3 2.3.4 Topsoil Segregation 2-3 2.3.5 Trenching and Installation of 36-inch Pipeline 2-3 2.3.6 Hydrostatic Testing 2-4 2.3.7 Restoration 2-4 2.4 Potential Sources of Contamination from Construction 2-4 3 Best Management Practices 3-1 3.1 Temporary Erosion Control Procedures 3-2 3.1.1 Construction Ingress and Egress 3-2 3.1.2 Sediment Barriers 3-2 3.1.3 Storm Drain Inlet Protection 3-3 3.1.4 Temporary Slope Breakers and Runoff Controls 3-3 3.1.5 Mulch 3-3 3.1.6 Erosion Control Fabric 3-4 3.1.7 Dust Control 3-4 3.1.8 Waterbody and Wetland Crossings 3-4 3.1.9 Rugged Topography 3-7 3.1.10 Spill Prevention and Equipment Fueling and Maintenance 3-7 3.1.11 Material Delivery and Storage 3-8 3.2 Permanent Erosion Control Measures 3-8 3.2.1 Trench Breakers 3-8 3.2.2 Permanent Slope Breakers 3-8 4 Nonstormwater Discharges 4-1 4.1 Trench Dewatering 4-1 4.2 Hydrostatic Testing 4-1 5 Restoration and Revegetation 5-1 5.1 Recontouring 5-1 5.2 Construction Debris Disposal 5-2 5.3 Soil Compaction 5-2 5.4 Scarification 5-2 5.5 Soil Replacement 5-2 5.6 Large Woody Debris Placement in Streambeds 5-3 5.7 Rock Removal 5-3 5.8 Seedbed Preparation 5-3 5.9 Fertilization 5-3 ---PAGE BREAK--- CONTENTS, CONTINUED III 5.10 Seed Mixtures and Supplemental Plantings 5-4 5.11 Seeding Timing 5-5 5.12 Seeding Methods 5-6 5.13 Supplemental Wetland and Riparian Plantings 5-6 5.14 Mulch 5-7 5.15 Residential 5-7 5.16 Grazing Deferments 5-7 5.17 Noxious Weeds 5-7 5.18 Monitoring and Maintenance 5-9 5.18.1 Upland Areas 5-9 5.18.2 Waterbodies and Wetlands 5-9 5.18.3 Data Storage and Analysis 5-11 5.18.4 Monitoring Quality Assurance Plan 5-12 6 References 6-1 Attachments 1 Best Management Practice Typical Drawings NEW 2 Streambank and Streambed Restoration Methods Tables REVISED5.10-1 Recommended Seed Mixtures 5-4 5.13-1 Native Shrub and Tree Planting for Restoring Riparian Areas 5-6 ---PAGE BREAK--- IV Acronyms and Abbreviations BMP best management practice CFR Code of Federal Regulations DNR Washington State Department of Natural Resources DOT U.S. Department of Transportation ECRP Erosion Control and Revegetation Plan EI Environmental Inspector °F degrees Fahrenheit FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission GIS geographic information system HDD horizontal directional drilling HPA Hydraulic Project Approval I-5 Interstate 5 lb/ac pounds per acre LWD large woody debris Northwest Northwest Pipeline LLC NRCS Natural Resource Conservation Service RCW Revised Code of Washington ROW right-of-way Spill Plan Spill Plan for Oil and Hazardous Materials TEWA temporary extra workspace area Upland Plan Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, and Maintenance Plan WDFW Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife WEP Washington Expansion Project Wetland and Waterbody Procedures Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures WRCC Western Regional Climate Center ---PAGE BREAK--- SECTION 1 1-1 Introduction This Erosion Control and Revegetation Plan (ECRP) outlines the erosion control and revegetation procedures that Northwest Pipeline LLC (Northwest) will use during construction of the Washington Expansion Project (WEP). The intent of this ECRP is to outline methods and procedures that will be implemented to minimize erosion, control sedimentation, and enhance revegetation success on all lands crossed by the WEP. The revegetation measures outlined in this ECRP have been prescribed to stabilize disturbed areas and to revegetate the right-of-way (ROW) to a condition that supports the preconstruction land uses as quickly as possible following construction. This ECRP was developed using the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC’s) Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, and Maintenance Plan (Upland Plan) (FERC, 2013a) and FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures (Wetland and Waterbody Procedures) (FERC, 2013b). FERC’s Upland Plan and Wetland and Waterbody Procedures have been developed specifically for linear pipeline projects with the intent to minimize the extent and duration of project-related disturbance, minimize erosion, and enhance revegetation success. The Upland Plan and Wetland and Waterbody Procedures were developed through a public process that included input from state, federal, and local agencies, industry, and the general public. In addition, this ECRP incorporates recommendations provided by the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS, 2012) and by the design standards for best management practices (BMPs) presented in the Western Washington Stormwater Management Manual (Washington Department of Ecology, 2012). The intent of these resources was to identify structural and nonstructural practices that could be implemented during construction of the WEP to prevent and/or minimize, to the maximum extent practicable, the transport of sediment from the WEP site to drainage facilities, water resources, and adjacent properties. 1.1 Project Components Northwest proposes to construct and operate the WEP, a capacity expansion to Northwest’s existing natural gas transmission facilities along the Interstate 5 (I-5) corridor in the state of Washington. The WEP consists of approximately 140 miles of 36-inch-diameter pipeline to be constructed in ten noncontiguous segments (loops) between Woodland and Sumas, Washington, in Cowlitz, Lewis, Thurston, Pierce, King, Snohomish, Skagit, and Whatcom counties. To the extent practicable, Northwest proposes to install the pipeline in its existing ROW to minimize environmental, residential, and other impacts. In addition to the pipeline, Northwest will upgrade five existing compressor stations. A complete description of the WEP and its purpose and need can be found in Revised Resource Report 1—General Project Description. 1.2 Schedule Northwest proposes to commence construction of the WEP in 2017 to meet the fourth quarter 2018 in-service schedule. During 2017, Northwest plans to install trenchless crossings such as horizontal directional drilling (HDD) or Direct Pipe on major waterbodies listed in Revised Table 1.2-1 in Revised Resource Report 1—General Project Description. This schedule allows for sufficient time to pursue permits for alternative crossing locations or methods to cross these rivers in the event trenchless installation methods are unsuccessful. An alternate crossing method or trenchless crossing at an alternate location would then be completed in 2018 during the WEP pipeline construction. In 2017, Northwest plans to conduct clearing in some large forested areas on the Woodland Loop, Chehalis Loop, and in selected other locations ahead of the WEP pipeline construction to minimize overall workspace, temporary extra workspace area (TEWA) requirements, and impacts on landowners. TEWA requirements will be minimized by proposing a multiple-year construction schedule because the same work areas used to stage ROW logging activities and provide timber storage and decking space in 2017 could be used for pipeline construction activities ---PAGE BREAK--- 1 INTRODUCTION 1-2 in 2018. Timber removal concurrent with pipeline construction would require additional TEWAs to work safely and efficiently, and potential clearing delays could force construction activities into the winter rainy season, which increases the potential for erosion and safety hazards. Therefore, scheduling construction activities over a multiple-year period will minimize winter construction requirements resulting from seasonal construction windows and allow greater flexibility to remove forested habitat during non-nesting seasons for species protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Northwest anticipates initiating work at the five existing compressor stations in fourth quarter 2017. Both pipeline and compressor station work will be completed in fourth quarter 2018. Revised Table 1.2-1 in Revised Resource Report 1—General Project Description provides a general schedule for the WEP. ---PAGE BREAK--- SECTION 2 2-1 Site Description 2.1 Pipeline Facilities The aboveground facility installations and modifications cross-over assemblies, mainline block valves, and internal inspection device [pig] launchers/receivers) will be installed primarily within existing facility footprints or within the existing permanent ROW and will be permanently stabilized with gravel; therefore, these aboveground facilities are not discussed further. Temporary erosion control measures at these facilities will be installed as necessary during construction as determined by Northwest’s Environmental Inspector (EI) using the BMPs outlined in this ECRP. 2.2 Existing Site Conditions The WEP generally runs along the interface of the Puget Lowland and Cascade Range physiographic provinces, occasionally crossing back and forth from one province to the other. Washington’s Cascade Range physiographic province consists of an active volcanic mountain range where Pliocene to recent uplift has resulted in relatively high topographic relief. The Cascade Range is typically divided into two sections, the North Cascades and the South Cascades. The WEP traverses the western boundary of both the North and South Cascades (Washington State Department of Natural Resources [DNR], 2012).The Puget Lowland physiographic province consists of a broad, low-lying region of subdued topography situated between the Cascade Range to the east and the Olympic Mountains and Willapa Hills to the west. The Puget Lowlands extend from the Canadian border southward to Eugene, Oregon, and the northern part of the Puget Lowlands is a flat glacial plain interrupted by the complex bays and inlets of Puget Sound (Lasmanis, 1991). The WEP area crosses nearly level glacial terraces and steep- sided valley walls. The climate of the WEP area is tempered by air masses from the Pacific Ocean, which influence the climate throughout the year. Summers are fairly warm; hot days are rare. Winters are cool; snow and freezing temperatures are not common. During summer, rainfall is extremely light, and several weeks often pass without precipitation. During the rest of the year, rains are frequent, especially in late fall, winter, and spring. In the winter, the average temperature is approximately 40.7 degrees Fahrenheit and the average minimum temperature is about 33.7°F (Western Regional Climate Center [WRCC], 2013). In the summer, the average temperature is about 63.6°F and the average maximum temperature is approximately 76.2°F. Total annual precipitation is about 38.3 inches. Of the total annual precipitation, about 18 percent usually falls during the dry season from May through September. The average snowfall is approximately 4.7 inches, and thunderstorms occur about five to ten times each year, mostly in the summer. Winter storms in the WEP area bring strong and sometimes damaging winds approximately once every 2 years, and streams may rise above flood stage several times each year (WRCC, 2013). 2.3 Proposed Pipeline Construction Activities The WEP will be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained in accordance with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations in 49 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 192, “Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety Standards;” 18 CFR Part 2.6, “Guidelines to be Followed by Natural Gas Pipeline Companies in the Planning, Clearing, and Maintenance of Rights-of-Way and the Construction of Aboveground Facilities;” and other applicable federal and state regulations. In addition to the DOT requirements listed above, Northwest will also construct and reclaim the pipeline and aboveground facilities in accordance with FERC’s Upland Plan and Wetland and Waterbody Procedures. Generally, the pipeline will be installed within the existing easement to avoid creating new ROW impacts. Exceptions were made in several locations to accommodate a more suitable crossing location. Waterbody ---PAGE BREAK--- 2 SITE DESCRIPTION 2-2 crossings will be constructed as close to perpendicular to the axis of the waterbody channel as engineering and routing conditions permit. Banks of waterbodies will be returned to preconstruction contours. If Northwest cannot restore the waterbody banks to preconstruction contours, then banks will be restored to a stable angle using bioengineered approaches, as approved by the EI. Pipeline construction will primarily occur in 2018. Northwest will prepare to receive materials and pipe at contractor and pipe storage yards when materials are procured from vendors and after the contractor and pipe storage yards have been identified during easement negotiations. Revegetation will primarily occur during the fall of 2018. The general construction sequence is as follows: • Preconstruction survey • Installation of erosion control BMPs • Clearing and grading • Topsoil segregation • Trenching, 26-inch pipeline removal (where necessary), and installation of 36-inch replacement pipeline • Hydrostatic testing • Restoration Each step is described in more detail in the following sections. 2.3.1 Preconstruction Survey The limits of disturbance will be clearly marked/staked prior to construction including the construction ROW, TEWAs, and access roads. Utility lines or other foreign line crossings will be located and marked to prevent accidental damage during pipeline construction. Sensitive areas to be protected from disturbance will be marked with highly visible construction sheeting and colored flagging, or construction fence for equipment operators. Equipment will be allowed to enter and operate only within the delineated limits of disturbance and access roads. In addition, any state- or county-listed Class A or Class B noxious weed infestations will be mapped and flagged. The locations of the noxious weed infestations will be provided to the applicable county Noxious Weed Control Board. Flagging, signs, and other markings identifying the limits of disturbance will be maintained through all phases of construction and routinely checked by Northwest’s EI (see Section 3.0 for the EI’s responsibilities). Construction will generally use a 95-foot-wide construction ROW, with additional TEWAs required at designated locations such as at road or waterbody crossings and other areas where additional staging areas are required. A number of areas will require the construction ROWs to be reduced to 75 feet in width, such as in wetlands and in residential areas, to minimize disturbance. Where feasible, based on site-specific conditions and engineering constraints, TEWAs have been set back from wetland and waterbody boundaries to minimize impacts to wetland buffers and riparian areas consistent with the Wetland and Waterbody Procedures. 2.3.2 Installation of Erosion Control BMPs Temporary erosion control measures will be installed in conjunction with clearing activities and prior to grading (initial soil disturbance). Installation of temporary erosion control measures prior to clearing is ineffective because the brush must be cleared to allow proper installation of the BMPs, and installed BMPs could be damaged during clearing activities. Installed erosion control BMPs will be routinely inspected and any damaged or temporarily removed BMPs will be replaced at the end of each working day or sooner as required by applicable permits and authorizations. Temporary erosion control measures will be maintained until the area disturbed during construction is stabilized successful revegetation has been achieved) and approval is achieved from local and state agencies to remove the BMPs. Section 3.1 describes in detail the temporary erosion control BMPs that will be implemented during construction to minimize erosion and potential impacts from offsite sedimentation. During any prolonged period of inactivity, such as the time between timber clearing and construction, the BMPs will be inspected once every calendar month as required by the project-specific Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. During this time, the soils will be temporarily stabilized with a combination of a thick layer of mulch, soil binders, and tackifiers, and then temporarily seeded. Depending on site conditions, straw wattles and compost socks may also be installed to control stormwater runoff velocity. ---PAGE BREAK--- 2 SITE DESCRIPTION 2-3 2.3.3 Clearing and Grading The flagged limits of disturbance will be maintained throughout all construction phases and will be monitored by Northwest’s EI. Where feasible, previously identified noxious weed infestations will be removed prior to land- clearing activities. Noxious weeds and soil contaminated with noxious weeds will be transported offsite only in appropriate containers to prevent the migration of noxious weeds. Brush and trees within the construction ROW and TEWAs will be felled or sheared so as to prevent damage to adjacent trees and structures and will be felled away from wetlands and waterbodies. Any debris entering a waterbody as a result of felling and yarding of timber will be removed as soon as practical after entry into the waterbody. Any logs firmly embedded in the bed or bank of waterbodies that are in place prior to felling and yarding of timber will not be disturbed, unless they prevent trenching and fluming operations. Any existing logs that are removed from waterbodies to construct the pipeline crossing will be returned to the waterbody after the pipeline has been installed and backfilling is complete, when the banks are being restored. Logs and slash will not be yarded across DNR Type F streams and, where possible, across DNR Type N streams. Temporary crossings of Type N streams will be installed such that the direction of log movement between stream banks shall be designed to minimize sediment delivery to streams. Landings for clearing operations will not be located in wetlands, and, where feasible, logs yarded out of wetlands or riparian zones will be skidded with at least one end suspended above the ground to minimize soil disturbance. Construction through these areas will be minimized and the logs will be transported to minimize damage to adjacent trees and vegetation, where possible. All clearing operations near waterbodies will follow conditions specified in the WEP’s Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) issued by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). No vegetation outside of the ROW will be cleared between the TEWAs and the edges of stream banks and/or wetlands. Grading of the construction ROW in upland areas shall be limited to the minimum required to provide a safe working area necessary to construct the pipeline. Vegetation in wetlands will be cut off at ground level, leaving existing root systems in place. Pulling of tree stumps and grading activities will be limited to areas directly over the trench. Northwest will not grade or remove stumps or root systems from the rest of the ROW in wetlands unless it is determined that safety-related construction constraints require removal of tree stumps from under the working side of the ROW. Minimizing stump and root system removal will accelerate restoration efforts by allowing sprouting species to reestablish from existing root systems. 2.3.4 Topsoil Segregation The potential mixing of topsoil with subsoil from construction activities could result in a loss of fertility of the soil. To prevent mixing of the soil horizons or incorporation of excess rock into the topsoil, topsoil will be segregated. FERC’s Upland Plan requires topsoil segregation in all residential areas; actively cultivated or rotated agricultural lands; pastures and hayfields; and other areas at the landowner’s request. In these areas, FERC’s Upland Plan requires either full ROW or trench and subsoil storage area stripping. Segregated topsoil will be stockpiled separately from subsoil in accordance with FERC’s Upland Plan. Segregated topsoil stockpiles will be covered during periods of inactivity (more than 14 days) to protect the soil from noxious weed seeds and other propagative plant parts. In deep soils (more than 12 inches of topsoil), Northwest will segregate at least 12 inches of topsoil. In soils with less than 12 inches of topsoil, Northwest will make every effort to segregate the entire topsoil layer, as determined by Northwest’s EI. FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures address topsoil segregation in wetlands. In wetland areas, FERC requires the top 12 inches over the trenchline to be salvaged, except in areas where standing water or saturated soils are present. 2.3.5 Trenching and Installation of 36-inch Pipeline Northwest will excavate a trench, remove the existing pipe (if necessary), install the new pipe within the excavated trench, and backfill the trench. After installation of the 36-inch pipeline and prior to backfilling, Northwest will install trench plugs (see Drawing 1408.34-X-0011 in Attachment 1) consistent with the requirements of FERC’s Upland Plan (Section IV.F.2). Trench plugs will be installed at the base of slopes adjacent to wetlands and waterbodies and where needed to avoid draining of wetlands. Trench plugs may be constructed ---PAGE BREAK--- 2 SITE DESCRIPTION 2-4 from sandbags or foam. Topsoil will not be used to fill the bags. Trench plugs will be installed on slopes to minimize water flow down the trench line to prevent potential subsurface erosion and to maximize stability. The source of backfill material will be the material removed from the trench for placement of the pipe. This material, less the volume occupied by the 36-inch pipe, will be returned to the trench. 2.3.6 Hydrostatic Testing After backfilling, the pipeline will be hydrostatically tested in accordance with DOT regulations to ensure that the system is capable of operating at the design pressure as described in Section 4.1 of this ECRP. Should a leak or break occur, the line will be repaired and retested until the specifications are achieved. Hydrostatic test water will be discharged in a manner to prevent erosion from scour and to prevent sedimentation of adjacent wetlands or waterbodies. The test water will be discharged into a straw bale structure to dissipate energy and filter the test water, and the filtered water will be discharged as overland sheet flow (see Drawing 1408.34-X-0012 in Attachment 2.3.7 Restoration After the pipeline is backfilled and tested, disturbed areas will be restored as nearly as possible to their original contours. Permanent erosion control measures will be installed as discussed in Section 3.0 of this ECRP, and revegetation will be performed as outlined in Section 5.0. 2.4 Potential Sources of Contamination from Construction The potential sources of pollutants that could be discharged in the receiving waterbodies through contact with stormwater during construction activities include the following: • Vehicle and equipment fueling and maintenance areas • Materials handling/loading and unloading areas • Erosion (wind, water) • Tracking from equipment • Grading and site preparation • Drilling • Trenching • Hazardous material storage areas • Storage yards • Mobile equipment • Painting 2.4.1.1 Vehicle and Equipment Fueling and Maintenance Fueling and minor maintenance of vehicles and equipment may be conducted on some construction sites. These activities can be potential sources of leaks and incidental spills of fuel (during fueling), oil, and grease. 2.4.1.2 Materials Handling/Loading and Unloading Areas Materials handling/loading and unloading activities are common on construction sites. Materials may spill or leak during loading and unloading, and may collect in the soil or other surfaces and be carried away in stormwater. Machines used to unload materials also may be a source of stormwater pollution. 2.4.1.3 Erosion Erosion is caused where soil is exposed to water or wind. Erosion can be caused by many construction-related activities, such as removing vegetation, compacting or disturbing the soil, changing natural drainage patterns, and covering the ground with impermeable surfaces. Erosion is a source of sediment in stormwater. ---PAGE BREAK--- 2 SITE DESCRIPTION 2-5 2.4.1.4 Tracking Construction equipment and construction vehicles have the potential to track soils from the construction project into public roadways. Any soils tracked off the construction sites may be a possible source of sediment in stormwater. 2.4.1.5 Grading and Site Preparation Grading and site preparation may be required at some locations and can be contributors of suspended solids concentration in stormwater. The possibility of erosion exists throughout the grading and site preparation phases of construction projects until construction is complete. 2.4.1.6 Drilling Trenchless crossings such as HDD or Direct Pipe will be used at several waterbody crossings. Mud rotary techniques will be used to transport the cuttings to bins. The rotary mud (inert bentonite) could become a potential source of sediment-laden water if not managed appropriately. 2.4.1.7 Trenching During the installation of pipeline sections, open trenching will be used throughout the route. During this type of installation, the stockpiled material will be exposed, and it could be a source of sediment if not managed appropriately. 2.4.1.8 Hazardous Material Storage Areas Hazardous material storage areas have the potential to release hazardous substances that may pose a threat to human health or the environment. Hazardous materials may be toxic, corrosive, ignitable, explosive, or chemically reactive. There is a potential for hazardous materials to be stored on construction sites. Outdoor storage areas include drums, sheds, clamshells, and yellow flammable cabinets. 2.4.1.9 Storage Yards Storage yards may contain equipment, construction materials, hazardous material storage areas, and construction debris that, when exposed to runoff, may pollute stormwater. A wide range of contaminants (metals, oil, and grease) may enter the environment by washing off or dissolving from stored material. 2.4.1.10 Mobile Equipment Portable tanks and other mobile equipment are used extensively on construction sites. This equipment may generate fuel or oil leaks or spills. Closed portable tanks and bins will be used to store wastes generated during the WEP. 2.4.1.11 Painting During painting and paint removal activities, materials may be used (and wastes created) that are harmful to humans and the environment. Pollutants may include solvents, solids, and metals. Any waste generated from these activities would be captured and removed following federal and state requirements. ---PAGE BREAK--- SECTION 3 3-1 Best Management Practices This ECRP will be used by contractors as a primary construction reference for the WEP. It provides site-specific directions for installing temporary and permanent erosion control measures (or BMPs) to prevent or minimize erosion. Attachment 1 provides drawings of typical BMPs that may be used during construction. BMP materials will be stored at the WEP’s proposed yards. Northwest will employ a team of EIs for the WEP. An EI will be onsite during active construction and will have peer status with all other utility inspectors. All EIs will have authority to stop activities that violate the measures set forth in this ECRP as well as other authorizations and will have the authority to order corrective action. At a minimum, the EIs will be responsible for: • Ensuring compliance with the measures set forth in this ECRP, the requirements of FERC’s Upland Plan, FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures, Washington’s Noxious Weeds regulations in Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 17.10, 18 CFR Part 380.15(e) and all other environmental permits and approvals, as well as environmental requirements in landowner agreements. • Identifying, documenting, and overseeing corrective actions, as necessary, to bring an activity back into compliance. • Verifying that the limits of authorized construction work areas and locations of access roads are properly marked before clearing. • Verifying the location of signs and highly visible flagging marking the boundaries of sensitive resource areas, waterbodies, wetlands, areas of known noxious weed infestations, or areas with special requirements along the construction work area. • Identifying areas needing noxious weed control and monitoring the results of removal efforts. • Identifying erosion/sediment control and stabilization needs in all areas. • Locating dewatering structures and slope breakers to ensure they will not direct water into sensitive areas. • Verifying that trench dewatering activities are located such that water is allowed to infiltrate whenever possible, turbid water does not reach waters of the state, and dewatering does not result in the deposition of sand, silt, and/or sediment. If such deposition is occurring, the dewatering activity shall be stopped and corrective action taken to prevent reoccurrence. • Testing subsoil and topsoil in pastures, active agricultural fields, and residential areas crossed by the WEP to measure compaction, and determining the need for corrective action. • Advising the Chief Inspector when conditions (such as wet weather) make it advisable to restrict construction activities to avoid excessive rutting. • Ensuring restoration of contours and topsoil. • Approving imported fill material (including rock, gravel, or soils) for use in residential areas and verifying that the fill material is inspected for noxious weeds and soil pests. • Determining the need for erosion controls and ensuring that they are properly installed, as necessary, to prevent sediment flow into wetlands, waterbodies, sensitive areas, and onto roads. This includes evaluating controls prior to a predicted storm event, whenever possible, and installing additional measures as needed to control stormwater and sediment. • Inspecting and ensuring the maintenance of temporary erosion control measures at least daily in areas of active construction or equipment operation, on a weekly basis in areas with no construction or equipment ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 3-2 operation, and within 24 hours of each 0.5-inch or greater rainfall. Inspections will be recorded and records maintained for review upon request. • Ensuring the repair of all ineffective temporary erosion control measures as soon as possible but not longer than 24 hours after identification. • Keeping records of compliance with the conditions of all environmental permits and approvals (including the measures set forth in this ECRP) during active construction and restoration. • Identifying areas that should be given special attention to ensure stabilization, restoration, and the reduction of the spread of noxious weeds after the construction phase. 3.1 Temporary Erosion Control Procedures Temporary erosion controls will be installed immediately after initial disturbance (clearing) and will be properly maintained throughout construction and reinstalled as necessary until replaced by permanent erosion controls or until restoration is complete. Near waterbodies and wetlands, it will be determined in the field by the EI if it is necessary to install temporary erosion control measures (such as sediment barriers) prior to initial disturbance to minimize the potential for sediment to enter a wetland or waterbody. 3.1.1 Construction Ingress and Egress Northwest has identified ingress/egress points using existing public and private roads that are crossed by the ROW. All access roads are shown on the Aerial Maps in Revised Appendix 1A and on the alignment sheets 1C of Revised Resource Report 1—General Project Description. Construction traffic will move up and down the construction ROW as much as possible. In designated areas, as determined by the EI, Northwest will install construction entrances at ROW access points that intersect paved roads to reduce sediment transport onto the roadway. A typical drawing of a construction entrance access pad is provided as Drawing 1408.34-X-0001 in Attachment 1. 3.1.2 Sediment Barriers Sediment barriers will be used to confine sediment to the construction ROW and will be constructed of silt fence, straw bales, or straw wattles (see Drawing 1408.34-X-0002 in Attachment Silt fence will be used where sediment barriers are required parallel to the ROW. Straw bales (weed-free) will be used in locations where sediment barriers are required to cross the construction ROW along the travel lane, such as at waterbody and wetland crossings. Straw wattles may also be used in appropriate areas as determined by the EI to reduce runoff velocity and confine sediment to the construction ROW. These structures will generally be placed as follows: • At the base of slopes adjacent to road, wetland, and waterbody crossings where sediment could flow from the construction ROW onto the road surface or into the wetland or waterbody • Adjacent to wetland and waterbody crossings, as necessary, to prevent sediment flow in the wetland consistent with the requirements of FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures • On the downslope side of the ROW where it traverses steep side slopes Drawing 1408.34-X-0003 in Attachment 1 shows the placement of temporary sediment barriers adjacent to road crossings. An example of sediment control in ditches and swales is shown on Drawing 1408.34-X-0004 in Attachment 1. Examples of sediment barrier installations during construction at wetlands and streams are shown on Drawings 1408.34-X-0005, -0006, and -0007 in Attachment 1. Northwest’s EI will determine where it may be necessary to provide added protection using sediment barriers to ensure that runoff is properly treated and that sediment is contained on the ROW. The EI will inspect temporary erosion control structures at least on a daily basis in areas of active construction and equipment operation. In areas where active construction and equipment operation are not occurring, inspections will be made at least weekly. All structures will be inspected by the EI within 24 hours of each 0.5-inch or greater ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 3-3 rainfall; however, state and other local jurisdictions may require more frequent inspection of erosion control structures. The EI will be responsible for ensuring that ineffective temporary erosion control measures are repaired as soon as possible but no more than 24 hours after discovery. Whenever possible, the EI will inspect erosion control measures in advance of predicted storm events and take preventative measures to minimize the potential for off-ROW sedimentation. Temporary sediment barriers will be maintained in place until permanent revegetation measures are successful or until the upland areas adjacent to wetlands, waterbodies, or roads are stabilized. The structures will be removed once the area has been successfully stabilized. 3.1.3 Storm Drain Inlet Protection The EI will assess all storm drain inlets downslope and within the approved work areas and determine if potential runoff from the WEP could reach a storm drain. Where necessary, storm drain inlets will be protected with temporary devices to prevent sediment from entering them. There are various inlet protection filters that are effective in keeping sediment-laden water from entering a storm drainage system, such as block and gravel filters, gravel and wire-mesh filter barriers, or bag barriers filled with various filtering media, which are placed around the inlet to protect the storm drain. Drawing 1408.34-X-0014 provides examples of a few common inlet protection methods. 3.1.4 Temporary Slope Breakers and Runoff Controls 3.1.4.1 Temporary Slope Breakers Northwest will install temporary slope breakers to reduce runoff velocity and concentrated flow, and to divert water off the construction ROW to avoid excessive erosion (see Drawing 1408.34-X-0008 in Attachment Temporary slope breakers may be constructed of materials such as soil, silt fence, staked straw bales, or sand bags. The outfall of each temporary slope breaker will be to a stable, well-vegetated area or to an energy- dissipating device at the end of the slope breaker and off the construction ROW. The outfall of the slope breakers will be positioned to avoid sedimentation of wetlands, waterbodies, and other sensitive areas. Northwest will use FERC’s Upland Plan (Section IV.F.1.b.) for spacing of temporary and permanent slope breakers for WEP. 3.1.4.2 Runoff Controls Interception of surface water on slopes reduces the possibility of erosion. Interceptor dikes and swales may be used to intercept storm runoff from undisturbed areas above disturbed areas or slopes and convey the runoff to stable points away from exposed soils. Stormwater runoff entering the construction ROW or TEWAs will be controlled to minimize erosion of disturbed areas and exposed cuts and fills. The EI will determine appropriate runoff control measures depending on site-specific and anticipated weather conditions. Potential control measures may include berms or interceptor dikes, swales, and piped slope drains as shown on Drawings 1408.34- X-0015 and 1408.34-X-0016 (see Attachment 3.1.5 Mulch Although not expected, if it becomes necessary to delay final cleanup, including final grading and installation of permanent erosion control measures, beyond 20 days (10 days in residential areas) after the trench is backfilled in a specific area, Northwest will apply mulch on all disturbed slopes before seeding (FERC’s Upland Plan IV. Mulch will also be applied if construction and restoration activities are interrupted for extended periods. In these areas, mulch will be applied uniformly over the area to cover the ground surface at a rate of 2 tons per acre of weed-free straw or 1 ton per acre of sterilized weed-free wood-fiber hydromulch. In addition, the mulch application rate will be increased to 3 tons per acre on steep slopes and all slopes within 100 feet of waterbodies and wetlands. The mulch will consist of weed-free straw or sterilized weed-free wood-fiber hydromulch. Construction is scheduled to occur primarily in the dry season; however, if in the wet season (October 1 to April 30) an area is to remain unworked for more than 2 consecutive days, the area will be covered or appropriate BMPs installed to minimize erosion potential based on soil type, slope gradient, anticipated weather conditions, and other factors. The installation of BMPs, as determined by the EI, will retain sediment onsite or treat/filter runoff before it leaves the construction ROW or TEWA. BMPs may include berms or sediment barriers. Temporary ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 3-4 coverings may include weed-free straw or sterilized weed-free wood-fiber hydromulch materials or the application of plastic or tarps (see Drawing 1408.34-X-0017 in Attachment 3.1.6 Erosion Control Fabric Northwest will install erosion control fabric (such as jute or excelsior) on stream banks at the time of recontouring (see Drawing 1408.34-X-0009 in Attachment The fabric will be anchored using staples or other appropriate devices. The erosion control fabric to be used on stream banks and steep slopes will be designed for the proposed use and will be approved by the EI. 3.1.7 Dust Control During summer construction in the WEP area, fugitive dust may be a potential impact along the construction ROW, especially where construction occurs in residential or wetland/waterbody areas. To control dust the EI will limit traffic speeds and require watering, if necessary. Watering trucks will spray only enough water to control the dust or to reach the optimum moisture content of the soil for compaction. Run-off will not be generated during this operation. Dust will be controlled on paved roadways by sweeping (either by machine or hand). During sweeping, the EI will determine if water needs to be sprayed to control dust. Any sediment generated from sweeping will be disposed of properly. Water for dust control will be obtained from a municipal source. 3.1.8 Waterbody and Wetland Crossings The following construction methods and BMPs will be included at waterbodies and wetlands, in accordance with FERC’s Upland Plan and Wetland and Waterbody Procedures. 3.1.8.1 Waterbody Crossings All intermittent waterbody crossings will be completed using dry, open-cut procedures if the waterbody is flowing at the time of construction. Dry, open-cut procedures may include dam-and-pump or flume crossing techniques (see Drawings 1408.34-0006 and 0007 in Attachment 1) consistent with the requirements of federal, state, and local agencies with specific authority and expertise to regulate impacts from the WEP. Waterbody crossings will be made generally perpendicular to the axis of the waterbody channel. TEWAs have not been located within 50 feet of waterbody boundaries where feasible, based on site-specific conditions topographic or engineering constraints) consistent with FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures (Sections V.B.2.a. and V.B.3.b.). Northwest has proposed alternative measures where a TEWA setback from a wetland or waterbody could not be maintained. One perennial waterbody crossing at the Toutle River will be completed using wet, open-cut methods. Wet, open- cut methods may include dam diversions of the waterbody to create a dry work space. The wet, open-cut methods will be completed in a manner consistent with the requirements of federal, state, and local agencies with specific authority and expertise to regulate impacts from the WEP. Similar to dry, open-cut methods, waterbody crossings will be made generally perpendicular to the axis of the waterbody channel. TEWAs have not been located within 50 feet of waterbody boundaries where feasible, based on site-specific conditions topographic or engineering constraints), consistent with FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures (Sections V.B.2.a. and V.B.3.b.). Northwest has proposed alternative measures where a TEWA setback from a waterbody is required. Northwest will use temporary construction bridges during all phases of construction to cross intermittent waterbodies. Temporary construction bridges will be designed according to FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures as well as according to conditions required by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, WDFW, and local jurisdictions. The temporary equipment bridges will be constructed to maintain unrestricted flow and to prevent soil from entering the waterbody. Soil will not be used to stabilize equipment bridges. Bridges will be designed to withstand and pass the highest flow expected to occur while in place, and, where feasible, bridges will be designed to span the ordinary high water mark. Temporary bridges may consist of: • Equipment mats and culvert(s) • Equipment mats or railroad car bridges without culverts ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 3-5 • Clean rock fill and culvert(s) • Flexi-float or portable bridges Northwest may use other alternatives for equipment bridges that achieve the same performance and objective. Drawing 1408.34-X-0010 in Attachment 1 provides a typical drawing of a temporary crossing bridge. Bridges will be removed as soon as possible after permanent seeding. If there will be more than one month between final cleanup and the beginning of permanent seeding and reasonable alternative access to the ROW is available, equipment bridges will be removed as soon as possible after final cleanup. Sediment barriers will be installed immediately after initial disturbance of the waterbody or adjacent upland. Sediment barriers will be properly maintained throughout construction and reinstalled as necessary (such as after backfilling the trench) until replaced by permanent erosion controls or until restoration of adjacent upland areas is complete and revegetation has stabilized the disturbed areas. During restoration, waterbody banks will be returned to preconstruction contours and erosion control matting will be installed as directed by the EI (see Drawing 1408.34-0009 in Attachment Bank stabilization measures for the river crossings will be addressed prior to construction. 3.1.8.2 Wetland Crossings Wetlands will be crossed in accordance with FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures except where an alternative measure has been proposed. Drawing 1408.34-X-0005 in Attachment 1 shows the typical wetland crossing methods that will be used. Wetlands crossed or that are in proximity to the WEP are shown on the alignment sheets in Revised Appendix 1C of Revised Resource Report 1—General Project Description. Sediment barriers will be installed immediately after initial disturbance (clearing) of the wetland or adjacent upland. Sediment barriers will be properly maintained throughout construction and reinstalled as necessary (such as after backfilling of the trench). Where necessary, sediment barriers will be installed across the entire construction ROW immediately upslope of the wetland boundary to prevent sediment flow into the wetland. Where wetlands are adjacent to the construction ROW, sediment barriers will be installed along the edge of the construction ROW, as necessary, to prevent sediment flow into the wetland. These sediment barriers will be removed after restoration is complete and revegetation has stabilized the disturbed areas. As stated above, where feasible, based on site-specific conditions topographic or engineering constraints), Northwest has designed each crossing such that TEWAs are not closer than 50 feet from wetland boundaries, consistent with FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures (VI.B.1.a. and Northwest has proposed an alternative measure from FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures because of site-specific conditions as shown in Revised Table 1.3-4 in Revised Resource Report 1—General Project Description. In wetlands where standing water or saturated soils are present, or if construction equipment would cause ruts or mixing of the topsoil and subsoil in wetlands, Northwest will use low-ground-weight construction equipment or will operate normal equipment on timber riprap or standard prefabricated equipment mats. Equipment mats distribute the weight of heavy equipment across a broader area. Rocks, soil imported from outside the wetland, tree stumps, or brush riprap will not be used to support equipment on the construction ROW. If trees are used as timber riprap or equipment mats to support equipment in saturated areas, they will be obtained from clearing operations and will not be cut outside of the approved construction work areas. Where timber riprap is used, Northwest will attempt to use no more than two layers of riprap to support equipment on the construction ROW. All materials used to support equipment on the construction ROW will be removed after construction. The duration of construction-related disturbance within wetlands will be minimized and construction equipment operating in wetland areas limited to that needed to clear the ROW, dig the trench, remove the pipe, fabricate and install the pipe, backfill the trench, and restore the ROW. All other construction equipment will use access roads located in upland areas to the maximum extent practicable. Where there is no upland access road available, Northwest will limit all other construction equipment to one pass through the wetland using the ROW if the area is not properly matted and stabilized. ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 3-6 3.1.8.3 Waterbody and Wetland Best Management Practices Additional BMPs to be included at waterbodies and wetlands are as follows: • Employ and monitor specific measures to ensure that sediment does not build up on temporary construction bridges, thus minimizing entrance of sediment into adjacent waterbodies. • For streams flowing at the time of crossing, assume fish presence and implement alternate dry-crossing techniques (dam-and-pump, flumed, aerial, or trenchless methods) unless a site-specific plan drawing and method is approved by FERC and appropriate agencies. • For major waterbody crossings (greater than 100 feet), adhere to the site-specific plan drawings provided in the Waterbody Crossing Plan. • Locate TEWA at least 50 feet back from waterbody boundaries unless a reduced setback is requested on a site-specific basis, where there is no woody riparian cover within 50 feet back from the waterbody, and an alternative measure is approved by appropriate agencies. • Maintain adequate flow rates throughout construction for aquatic life and to prevent the interruption of existing uses. • Restrict spoil placement near surface waters to the construction ROW at least 10 feet from the water’s edge or within additional extra workspaces placed at least 50 feet from the water’s edge. • All equipment parked overnight and/or being fueled must be at least 100 feet from a waterbody or in an upland area at least 100 feet from a wetland boundary. • In certain instances, refueling or fuel storage may be unavoidable due to site-specific conditions or unique construction requirements continuously operating pumps or refueling within wetlands). The following precautions will be taken when refueling within 100 feet of wetlands or waterbodies: − Adequate amounts of absorbent materials and containment booms will be kept on hand by each construction crew to enable the rapid cleanup of any spills. − If fuel must be stored within wetlands or near streams for refueling of continuously operating pumps, adequate secondary containment will be employed. − Secondary containment structures will be lined with suitable plastic sheeting. Provide a containment volume of at least 150 percent of the storage vessel and allow for at least 1 foot of freeboard. − Northwest will provide adequate lighting at sensitive fueling/storage locations. • Northwest will not store hazardous materials (including chemicals, fuels, and lubricating oils) within 150 feet of a wetland, waterbody, or designated municipal watershed area. This applies to storage of these materials and not to normal operation or use of equipment in these areas. • Concrete coating activities will not be performed within 100 feet of a wetland or waterbody boundary unless the location is an existing industrial site designated for such use or an alternative measure has been approved. • Northwest will structure operations in a manner that provides for the prompt and effective cleanup of spills of fuel and other hazardous materials. At a minimum, Northwest and its contractors will: − Ensure that each construction crew (including cleanup crews) has on hand sufficient supplies of absorbent and barrier materials to allow the rapid containment and recovery of spilled materials and knows the procedure for reporting spills. − Ensure that each construction crew has on hand sufficient tools and material to stop leaks. − Maintain a list of the contact names and telephone numbers for all local, state, and federal agencies (including, if necessary, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency National Response Center) that must be notified of a spill. ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 3-7 − Follow the requirements of those agencies in cleaning up the spill, excavating and disposing of soils or other materials contaminated by a spill, and collecting and disposing of waste generated during spill cleanup. 3.1.8.4 Prohibited Practices Many commonly applied BMPs have unacceptable levels of short- or long-term risk to aquatic species and habitat. Based on risk to species and habitat, Northwest will not use the following practices at any waterbody crossing sites unless there is no practical alternative to protect the integrity of the stream bank or safety of the pipeline: • Grubbing in areas outside of the trench; grubbing is defined as the mechanical removal of roots and organic matter that occur below the ground surface • Bank hardening methods for the purpose of stream bank stabilization (unless tying into existing hardened banks), such as: − Gabion baskets − Blanket riprap − Articulated concrete blocks − Concrete • Concrete armoring anywhere in the active stream channel • Use of temporary culverts or other streambed or floodplain fill as part of a temporary equipment bridge • Upgrades of an existing road crossing over waterbodies • Permanent installation of nonbiodegradable and/or nonwoven geotextile fabrics • Chemical soil stabilizers on banks or adjacent slopes during any phase of construction or restoration • Herbicides for treating noxious weeds within Endangered Species Act streams 3.1.9 Rugged Topography The potential for surface erosion in areas of moderately sloping ground is high, and during construction the ROW in these areas will require substantial grading to provide a safe working plane. During restoration, these areas will be regraded to a stable configuration to minimize erosion and facilitate long-term maintenance. This ECRP provides the various BMPs that will be used, as necessary, to ensure erosion is minimized and slopes are revegetated and properly stabilized. Northwest has developed, implemented and maintained a comprehensive geologic hazard identification, characterization and mitigation program throughout its pipeline system, including the existing I-5 corridor between Woodland and Sumas, Washington. The Northwest geologic hazards program was established in part to address and mitigate the potential adverse effects of landslides and slope instability. A more detailed discussion of this program, and mitigation and monitoring activities implemented by Northwest for known geohazard areas is provided in Revised Resource Report 6—Geological Resources. 3.1.10 Spill Prevention and Equipment Fueling and Maintenance Northwest has developed a Spill Plan for Oil and Hazardous Materials (Spill Plan, Appendix 2E) that describes measures to prevent and control any inadvertent spill of hazardous materials such as fuels, lubricants, and solvents that could contaminate soils and affect water quality. The Spill Plan will be updated with site-specific information prior to construction. All WEP construction employees will receive Spill Plan training. Equipment fueling and storage of oil, fuel, or other materials near waterbodies or wetlands could create a soil contamination and water quality impact if a spill were to occur. Leaks from equipment and vehicles could also cause impacts to surface waters. Maintenance and equipment storage will take place along the entire construction ROW; however, certain areas are restricted from these activities. Hazardous materials, chemicals, fuels, and lubricating oils will be stored in upland areas at least 100 feet from waterbodies and wetlands in ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 3-8 accordance with FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures. Restricted areas for storage of these materials will be clearly marked in the field. Concrete coating, refueling, and equipment maintenance activities will also be conducted according to FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures. Concrete trucks will not be washed on the ROW. All hazardous materials will be handled in accordance with the Spill Plan. If an unanticipated spill occurs during construction, Northwest will implement the procedures outlined in the Spill Plan. 3.1.11 Material Delivery and Storage Northwest will use contractor and pipe storage yards that will be identified and acquired during easement negotiation for the WEP for material delivery and storage. Materials will be brought onto the ROW as they are needed and will be located away from waterbodies and wetlands. Storage yards and construction equipment will be routinely inspected for noxious weeds. Construction equipment will be cleaned as needed to prevent mobilization of noxious weeds into the construction area. Secondary containment will be provided for liquids. 3.2 Permanent Erosion Control Measures Permanent erosion control measures that will be used to reduce pollutants in stormwater discharges will be implemented after all construction phases have been completed. Post-construction BMPs consist of permanent features and operational practices designed to minimize pollutant discharges, including sediments, from the site after the WEP is completed. 3.2.1 Trench Breakers Trench breakers will be installed in the trench on slopes prior to backfilling to prevent water from flowing along the pipeline and eroding trench backfill materials (see Drawing 1408.34-X-0011 in Attachment Northwest will use FERC’s Upland Plan (Section V.B.1.d.) to determine spacing of temporary and permanent trench breakers for the WEP unless directed otherwise by the EI or authorized company representative. Where the pipeline trench may drain a wetland, trench breakers will be installed and/or the trench bottom sealed as necessary to maintain the original wetland hydrology. Northwest will install a trench breaker at the base of slopes near the wetland boundary between the wetland and adjacent upland area. A permanent slope breaker and a trench breaker will be installed at the base of slopes near the boundary between the wetland and adjacent upland areas. The trench breaker will be installed immediately upslope of the slope breaker. Trench breakers will consist of foam or approved sacks filled with a minimum 0.6 cubic feet of sand. They will be keyed into the trench sidewall where determined necessary by the EI or authorized company representative. 3.2.2 Permanent Slope Breakers As required by FERC’s Upland Plan, slope breakers (water bars) will be installed with a 2 to 8 percent outslope, and flow will be diverted to a stable area. If a stable area is not present, a temporary energy-dissipating device will be installed at the end of the breaker. The frequency of permanent slope breakers will be based on FERC’s Upland Plan standards; however, state and other local jurisdictions may require a different slope breaker technology. The EI or authorized representative may modify the spacing based on site-specific characteristics such as slope, surface materials, elevation, expected runoff, and opportunity to install the slope breakers based on the ROW configuration and topography, as well as experience. The permanent slope breakers will be installed in all areas except pastures and lawns. A typical design is provided in Attachment 1 (see Drawing 1408.34-X-0008). During installation of permanent slope breakers, interceptor dikes or swales, as described in Runoff Controls (Section 3.1.4) above, will also be installed at appropriate locations, as directed by the EI or authorized representative (see Drawing 1408.34-X-0015). ---PAGE BREAK--- SECTION 4 4-1 Nonstormwater Discharges The main nonstormwater discharges associated with construction of the pipeline are trench dewatering and hydrostatic test water discharge. 4.1 Trench Dewatering During construction, trench dewatering may be required in areas of high groundwater. These areas are expected to be associated with floodplains, wetlands, or other areas where standing water is seasonally present. The construction schedule will coincide with the period when the soils in these areas are expected to be at their driest. All water associated with trench dewatering will be pumped to a discharge structure similar to Drawing 1408.34- X-0013 in Attachment 1, which will be appropriately sized for the discharge volume. Discharge will occur in well- vegetated, gently sloping upland areas to promote infiltration. Water associated with trench dewatering will not be directly discharged to waterbodies. 4.2 Hydrostatic Testing After backfilling, the pipeline will be hydrostatically tested in accordance with DOT regulations to ensure that the pipeline is capable of operating at design pressure. Should a leak or break occur, the pipeline will be repaired and retested until the specifications are achieved. Hydrostatic test water will be obtained from municipal and surface water sources. Some of the hydrostatic test water will be discharged directly to waterbodies as identified in Revised Table 2.2-10 of Revised Resource Report 2—Water Use and Quality The water discharge from these activities will be directed to a straw bale dewatering structure to dissipate energy to prevent erosion and to filter the discharge in order to avoid sedimentation (see Drawings 1408.34-X-0012 and 1408.34-X-0013 in Attachment Hydrostatic test water discharges to ground and surface water will occur through an appropriately sized discharge structure. The proposed hydrostatic test water discharge locations for the WEP will occur as shown on the alignment sheets in Revised Appendix 1C of Revised Resource Report 1—General Project Description and are listed in Revised Table 2.2-10 in Revised Resource Report 2—Water Use and Quality. Northwest’s EI will visually monitor the release of hydrostatic test water and trench dewatering activities to ensure that no erosion or sedimentation occurs. In addition, the EI will ensure that turbid water is not discharged to waters of the State. If the EI determines that a discharge is occurring, the receiving water will be visually monitored for turbidity. If turbidity is observed, the dewatering operations would be immediately adjusted/ reinstalled to ensure that the discharge to surface water is stopped and water quality standards are not exceeded. ---PAGE BREAK--- SECTION 5 5-1 Restoration and Revegetation Initial revegetation of disturbed areas will begin as soon as possible after construction. Waterbody crossings will be stabilized and temporary sediment barriers will be installed within 24 hours in accordance with FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures (Section V.C.2). Final grading and permanent erosion control measures will be completed within 20 days (10 days in residential areas) after the trench is backfilled, weather and soil conditions permitting. During final cleanup and initial revegetation, permanent repairs of fences, gates, drainage ditches, and other structures removed or damaged during construction will be completed. Streambeds will be returned to their preconstruction condition, and stream banks will be restored and mitigated in-kind or to a greater functional quality than their preconstruction condition and revegetated, in accordance with FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures. Final cleanup will include regrading, mulching, placing erosion control mats, reseeding, and/or transplanting vegetation, as appropriate. Reseeding and revegetation will be accomplished as quickly as possible following pipe installation. If precipitation events or other complications preclude the completion of seeding and revegetation immediately following construction, exposed erodible substrates will be covered with straw or other suitable mulch until seeding is completed and seedlings are established as described below. New Attachment 2 contains a description of stream bank and streambed restoration methods. Northwest will work with individual landowners to address restoration of pastures and residential lawns, ornamental shrubs, and other landscaping. In residential areas, Northwest will use contractors familiar with local horticultural and lawn establishment procedures for revegetation work or will compensate landowners to restore these areas. Noxious weeds will not be introduced into the restored areas. The shrub containers will be inspected for signs of noxious weeds prior to planting in restoration areas. Specific revegetation procedures will be determined during easement negotiations with individual landowners. Once site restoration is complete, as-built surveys and post-construction data for compliance and effectiveness monitoring will be collected (see Section 5.18, Monitoring and Maintenance). 5.1 Recontouring All graded areas associated with pipeline construction will be regraded and contoured to blend into the surrounding landscape and to reestablish natural drainage patterns. Emphasis during recontouring will be to return the entire ROW to its approximate original contours, to stabilize slopes, to control surface drainage, and to provide a more aesthetic appearance. All surface water and stormwater runoff from the WEP will be discharged to a natural location and not be diverted in a manner that would create an adverse impact on downhill properties. Ruts and other scars will be filled and all drainage ditches will be returned to their preconstruction condition. Recontouring to the original grade in disturbed wetlands is especially critical so that the wetland hydrology is not altered. Existing culverts that are damaged or removed during construction will be replaced to their original or better condition. No other culverts will be installed, except those permitted by the appropriate federal, state, and/or local agencies. At waterbodies, native materials will be backfilled in the top of the trench to ensure the existing channel condition is maintained. In-stream roughness elements, such as boulders and large wood, will be replaced in similar configurations to ensure that hydraulic roughness conditions are similar to preconstruction conditions. The original profiles and banks may be graded to a stable angle of repose to prevent erosion. Excess rock that cannot be returned to the trench or used for slope stabilization, and is not used as in-stream structure for habitat mitigation or enhancement, may be distributed throughout the ROW or be used as a barrier to block unauthorized vehicular access to the ROW. No solid waste or construction debris will be allowed to remain in the ROW after final grading. ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-2 5.2 Construction Debris Disposal During final cleanup, all construction debris timber, slash, mats, garbage, drilling fluids, excess rock) will be cleared from the ROW and disposed of in accordance with state and local regulations. Temporary erosion and sediment control measures will be removed and disposed of properly, and any sediment trapped by these measures will be removed or stabilized in such a manner that the trapped sediment does not reenter the stream system. 5.3 Soil Compaction Northwest will test for soil compaction in residential areas, active agricultural fields, and pastures. Tests will be conducted on the same soil type under similar moisture conditions as specified in Section V.C.1. in FERC’s Upland Plan. Pursuant to FERC’s Upland Plan, the EI will be responsible for conducting subsoil and topsoil compaction testing and determining corrective measures. Compaction will be relieved in residential areas based on site- specific conditions. Over-compacted soil will be scarified (where necessary, as determined by the EI) by ripping or chiseling to loosen soils compacted by equipment traffic prior to reseeding the ROW. Scarifying the subsoil will also promote water infiltration and improve soil aeration, root penetration, and revegetation success. Where compaction is evident, and if deemed necessary, scarification will occur in disturbed areas, including the passing lane or TEWAs, even if these areas were only scalped of vegetation or driven over. Scarification will be at least 12 inches deep with rippers spaced not more than 16 inches apart unless approved by the EI. Ripping and chisel plowing will occur when materials are dry to promote the shattering of compacted layers. In wetlands, scarification is not anticipated because traffic will be limited in these areas to that needed to clear the ROW, dig the trench, remove the 26-inch pipeline, fabricate and install the 36-inch pipeline, backfill the trench, and restore the ROW. Equipment mats will be used in wetlands where soils are saturated or where standing water is present to stabilize these areas and minimize compaction. The need for scarification in wetland areas will be determined by the EI. Scarification will not be conducted in wetlands where it may adversely affect the wetland hydrology. 5.4 Scarification Prior to respreading the topsoil, the right-of-way will be scarified (where necessary as determined by the EI) by ripping or chiseling to loosen compacted areas from equipment traffic. Scarifying the subsoil will also promote water infiltration and improve soil aeration, root penetration, and revegetation success. Where compaction is evident, and if deemed necessary, scarification will occur in disturbed areas, including the passing lane or TEWAs, even if these areas were only scalped of vegetation or driven over. Scarification will be at least 12 inches deep with rippers spaced not more than 16 inches apart, unless approved by the EI. Ripping and chisel plowing will also occur when materials are dry to promote the shattering of compacted layers. In wetlands, scarification is not anticipated because traffic will be limited in these areas to that needed to clear the right-of-way, dig the trench, fabricate and install the 36-inch pipeline, backfill the trench, and restore the right-of-way. Equipment mats will be used in wetlands where soils are saturated or where standing water is present to stabilize these areas and minimize compaction. Therefore, the need for scarification in wetland areas will be determined by the EI. Scarification will not be conducted in wetlands where it may adversely affect the wetland hydrology. 5.5 Soil Replacement All topsoil salvaged will be uniformly spread over the portions of the ROW from where the soil was salvaged. If compaction occurs during this operation that might not be relieved during seedbed preparation, all compacted ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-3 areas will be scarified. Topsoil spreading will not occur during wet periods when soils are easily compacted and all travel over re-topsoiled areas will be restricted. 5.6 Large Woody Debris Placement in Streambeds If large woody debris (LWD) is removed from the streambed during construction, it will be stockpiled until construction is completed and then replaced. LWD placement will be done in accordance with the state of Washington Stream Habitat Restoration Guidelines (Cramer, 2012). The EI will be responsible for ensuring that the LWD is appropriately anchored to prevent it from displacing and that post-construction placement will provide similar habitat benefits to preconstruction conditions. Large trees removed from the construction ROW will also be stockpiled for use in post-construction restoration operations. 5.7 Rock Removal FERC’s Upland Plan requires the removal of excess rock from the top 12 inches of soil to the extent practicable in all rotated and permanent croplands, hayfields, pastures, residential areas, and other areas at the landowner’s request. In these areas, Northwest will clean up excess rock to a condition similar to adjacent portions of the construction ROW size, density, and distribution of rock) unless the landowner and Northwest negotiate other requirements. The rock collected from these operations will either be hauled to an approved landfill or commercial quarry or will be disposed of in upland areas within the certified construction limits, with approval of the landowner. The use of alternate disposal locations will be approved by FERC. 5.8 Seedbed Preparation Seedbed preparation will be conducted immediately prior to seeding to prepare a firm seedbed conducive to proper seed placement and moisture retention. Seedbed preparation will also be performed to break up surface crusts and to minimize annual weeds that may have developed between initial revegetation and seeding. Noxious weeds with perennial roots or rhizomes will be controlled before seeding or replanting. A seedbed will be prepared in disturbed areas, where necessary, to a depth of 3 to 4 inches using appropriate equipment to provide a seedbed that is firm, yet rough. A rough seedbed is conducive to capturing or lodging seed when broadcast or hydroseeded, and it reduces runoff and erosion potential. The rough seedbed will retain soil moisture for seedling germination and establishment. In most areas, final ROW cleanup procedures should be sufficient because it leaves a surface smooth enough to accommodate a drill seeder pulled by a farm tractor and rough enough to catch broadcast seed and trap moisture and runoff. However, additional preparation such as chisel plowing or disking may be necessary to prepare an adequate seedbed. Where residential lawns or landscaped areas are disturbed, more intensive ground and seedbed preparations may be required, including rock collection, grading, and soil preparation/amending. 5.9 Fertilization Northwest will use a standard fertilization rate of 200 pounds per acre bulk triple-16 fertilizer (16:16:16 - nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus), or a suitable site-specific fertilizer, on all disturbed areas to be reseeded, except in wetlands. This fertilization rate will apply 32 pounds per acre of elemental nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. The NRCS (2012) indicated that the proposed fertilization rate, which has been used on Northwest’s previous projects in western Washington, was acceptable for the WEP area. Where fertilizer is applied by broadcast methods, the fertilizer will be incorporated into the top 2 inches of soil. Where the fertilizer is applied by hydroseeding, the fertilizer will be applied with the hydroseeding slurry. The NRCS did not recommend the addition of lime or other soil pH modifiers. ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-4 5.10 Seed Mixtures and Supplemental Plantings As required by FERC’s Upland Plan, Northwest has consulted with the NRCS (2012) regarding recommended seed mixtures for the WEP. The NRCS-recommended seed mixtures for the WEP are listed in Revised Table 5.10-1. The seed mixtures are based on bulk seeding rates and are not based on pure live seed. All seed will be tested for quantity of weed seed within 12 months of use. The seed will be free of noxious weeds and the quantity of total weed seed will be low. The EI will review all seed tags prior to use to ensure that these procedures are implemented. The NRCS-recommended seeding rates specified in Seed Mixtures 1, 2, 3, and 4 in Revised Table 5.10-1 are based on broadcast seeding methods. If hydroseeding occurs, the broadcast seeding rate will be used plus any adjustment the hydroseeding company recommends based on their equipment specifications. If drill seeding is conducted, the seeding rate could be divided in half. These mixtures have been used on Northwest’s previous projects in western Washington and have been approved by permitting agencies including U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Washington Department of Ecology. Individual landowners may also specify seed mixtures for their properties, provided that these seed mixes do not contain noxious weed seeds. Residential landscaping is discussed in Section 5.15. REVISED TABLE 5.10-1 Recommended Seed Mixtures Common Name Scientific Name Seeding Rate (lb/ac) Seed Mixture 1 - Upland Right-of-Way Areas Perennial Grasses Redtop or Oregon bentgrass Agrostis alba or Agrostis oregonensis 5 Fescue, fine or creeping red Festuca rubra 10 Fescue, tall Festuca arundinacea 10 Orchardgrass Dactylis glomerata 7 Ryegrass, annual or Italian Lolium multiflorum 10 Timothy Phleum pratense 2 Legumes Clover, red Trifolium pratense 4 Clover, white Trifolium repens 4 Trefoil, birdsfoot Lotus corniculatus 2 Annual Cereal Grains and Legumes Oats Avena sativa 20 Total Bulk 74 Seed Mixture 2 - Pasture Mix – Upland Sites Perennial Grasses Fescue, tall Festuca arundinacea 8 Ryegrass, perennial or English Lolium perenne 10 Orchardgrass Dactylis glomerate 25 Legumes Clover, red Trifolium pratense 3 Clover, white Trifolium repens 5 Total Bulk 51 Seed Mixture 3 – Pasture Mix – Wet Sites Perennial Grasses Fescue, tall Festuca arundinacea 30 Ryegrass, perennial or English Lolium perenne 20 Foxtail, meadow Alepocurus pratensis 5 ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-5 REVISED TABLE 5.10-1 Recommended Seed Mixtures Common Name Scientific Name Seeding Rate (lb/ac) Legumes Clover, alsike Trifolium hybridum 4 Clover, white Trifolium repens 4 Trefoil, birdsfoot Lotus corniculatus 2 Total Bulk 65 Seed Mixture 3a – Seed Mixture for Disturbed Emergent Wetlands Perennial Grasses Ryegrass, annual Lolium multiflorum 20.0 Bentgrass, creeping Agrostis stolonifera 0.4 Foxtail, Garrison creeping Alopercurus arundianceus 3.0 Foxtail, meadow Alopercurus pratensis 2.0 Fescue, red Festuca rubra 2.0 Hairgrass, tufted Deschampsia caespitosa 0.5 Sloughgrass, Americana Beckmannia syzigachne 2.0 Mannagrass, westerna Glyceria occidentalis 3.0 Total Bulk 32.9 Seed Mixture 4 – Wetland Seed Mixture Grasses Ryegrass, annual Lolium multiflorum 20 Quick Guardb 40 Fescue, fine or creeping red Festuca rubra 5 Hairgrass, tufted Deschampsia caespitosa 2 Mannagrass, reeda Glyceria grandis 2 Barley, meadowa Hordeum Brachyantherum 5 Foxtail, watera Aleopecurus geniculatus 2 Rice cut-grassa Leersia oryzoides 2 Clover, springbanka Trifolium 2 Total Bulk 80 Temporary Seed Mixtures Cereal ryec Secale cereale L. 120 Winter wheatc Triticum aestivum 120 Total Bulk 120 a These species may be included in the seed mixture if they are readily available from a commercial seed supplier. b Quick Guard is a sterile hybrid of wheat and rye. c Either cereal rye or winter wheat will be used. lb/ac = pound(s) per acre 5.11 Seeding Timing Disturbed areas will be seeded within six working days of final grading, weather and soil conditions permitting. It is expected that seeding of restored ROW areas may begin as early as mid-August and will proceed until about mid-September until all areas have been reseeded. According to the NRCS, seeding past October 10 will require mulching and may not germinate to provide an effective cover unless the weather is unseasonably warm. If seeding is not completed by mid-September, a temporary winter cover consisting of cereal rye or winter wheat at ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-6 a bulk rate of 120 pounds per acre will be considered by the EI or Northwest’s authorized representative to ensure adequate erosion control (see Revised Table 5.10-1). Where a temporary winter cover is planted, it will be planted by mid-October and will be included with the permanent seed mixture. 5.12 Seeding Methods Seeding will be conducted using either a seed drill or broadcast and hydroseeding according to the guidelines in FERC’s Upland Plan. Where broadcast seeding occurs, other than hydroseeding, the seeded area will be dragged with chains or other appropriate harrows to cover the seed. Fertilizer and mulch will not be used in wetlands. 5.13 Supplemental Wetland and Riparian Plantings To mitigate impacts on riparian areas, Northwest will plant native shrubs and trees in areas where these species existed prior to construction or to enhance existing conditions where landowners allow. Table 5.13-1 provides a list of suggested native trees and shrubs that are common in the WEP area in these habitats and which would be planted after final restoration and cleanup during appropriate planting periods (during the winter and early spring). To complete these restoration plantings, Northwest will select a restoration contractor who is knowledgeable about local wetland and riparian ecosystems and the species’ characteristics and site growth requirements, and who is able to inspect the source of the plantings for indications of noxious weeds, where feasible. The shrubs and trees planted at each site will be determined at the time of planting based on the moisture regimes and site-specific conditions at each planting location and based on the plant spacing provided in Table 5.13-1. TABLE 5.13-1 Native Shrub and Tree Planting for Restoring Riparian Areas Common Name Scientific Name Planting Sizea Planting Spacing Shrubsb Wet Sites Red-osier dogwood Cornus stolonifera 36” cuttings 3’ Willow spp. Salix spp. 36” cuttings 3’ Moist Sites Pacific ninebark Red elderberry Blue elderberry Salmonberry Nootka rose/woods rose Golden currant Physocarpus capitatus Sambucus racemosa Sambucus cerulean Rubus spectabilis Rosa nutkana/Rosa woodsii Ribes aureum 1 gal 1 gal 1 gal 1 gal 1 gal 1 gal 8’ 8’ 8’ 4’ 4’ 6’ Dry Sites Snowberry Beaked hazelnut Oregon grape albus Corylus cornuta Mahonia aquifolium 1 gal 1 gal 1 gal 4’ 8’ 4’ Treesb Wet Sites Oregon ash Red alder Sitka spruce Western red cedar Oregon crabapple Black cottonwood Fraxinus latifolia Alnus rubra Picea sitchensis Thuja plicata Malus fusca Populus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa 1 gal 1 gal 2 gal or bare root 2 gal or bare root 1 gal 36” cuttings or poles 10’ 10’ 15’ 12’ 10’ 10’ ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-7 TABLE 5.13-1 Native Shrub and Tree Planting for Restoring Riparian Areas Common Name Scientific Name Planting Sizea Planting Spacing Moist Sites Cascara buckthorn Western hemlock Frangula purshiana Tsuga 1 gal 1 gal 8’ 12’ Dry Sites Douglas-fir Big-leaf maple Pseudotsuga menziesii Acer 1 gal or bare root 2 gal 12’ 15’ a Planting stock sizes may include bare root equivalents. b Shrubs will be installed in clusters of 5 to 10, while trees will be individual specimens. Disturbed riparian areas will be replanted with trees and shrubs according to FERC’s Wetland and Waterbody Procedures (Sections V.C.6. and V.D.1). Shrubs will be planted and allowed to grow within 5 feet of the pipeline centerline. Trees will not be planted within 15 feet of either side of the pipeline centerline to facilitate corrosion and leak surveys and to prevent roots from damaging pipe coatings. In riparian areas, shrubs and trees will be planted across the ROW for a width of 25 feet from the waterbody banks subject to the existing land uses and landowner approval. 5.14 Mulch Mulch will be applied on all slopes where necessary to stabilize the soil. The mulch will be uniformly applied at a rate of 2 tons per acre to cover at least 75 percent of the ground surface. If seeding occurs after October 10, all disturbed areas will be mulched. Mulching will occur during seeding (where hydroseeded) or immediately after seeding where broadcast or drill seeding occurs. All straw used for mulch will be weed-free. Anchoring straw mulch by crimping the mulch in is not expected to be necessary because strong winds, which could dislodge the mulch, typically occur during the winter rainy season when the moist conditions will bind the straw to the soils; however, the EI will determine if straw crimping is appropriate. 5.15 Residential Landscaping In residential areas, Northwest will initiate cleanup operations within 10 days after backfilling the trench, consistent with FERC’s Upland Plan (Section V.A.1), or pursuant landowner construction stipulations. This includes final grading, topsoil replacement, and installation of permanent erosion control structures. Residential landscaping will be restored by a landscaping contractor familiar with local conditions. Landscaping may include lawns, shrubs, trees, fences, irrigation systems, and other landscape features as agreed to during Northwest’s easement negotiations. Noxious weeds and aggressive ground cover plants, such as English ivy, holly, and similar plants, will not be used. 5.16 Grazing Deferments Northwest will develop grazing deferment plans, where necessary, based on negotiations with individual landowners. Grazing deferment plans may include temporary fencing to keep horses or livestock off of the restored ROW, boarding animals at alternate locations, purchasing supplemental feed, or other similar methods to minimize potential livestock disturbance to ROW revegetation efforts. Grazing deferments will be negotiated with livestock owners during the easement process. 5.17 Noxious Weeds The NRCS (2012) was consulted for recommendations to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds and soil pests. The NRCS has recommended that the best way to control the establishment of invasive species is to ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-8 plant desirable vegetation at relatively high rates so they provide vigorous competition. In addition, Northwest will include the following measures to ensure that the potential spread of noxious weeds is minimized: • Prior to transport to the construction ROW, all equipment will be cleaned and inspected to ensure it is free of potential weed seeds or sources soil, roots, or rhizomes). In addition, all equipment will be inspected and cleaned when leaving the ROW after construction to verify that it is free of potential weed seeds or sources. The EI or Northwest’s authorized representative will be responsible for inspection of all equipment and trucks used on the WEP to ensure they are clean. • Certified weed-free straw will be used for mulch and sediment barriers, dewatering structures, or other uses along the ROW. The EI or Northwest’s authorized representative will be responsible to ensure that all straw hauled to the construction yard will be certified weed-free. The Washington State Department of Agriculture Plant Services Program has a weed-free hay and mulch program (Washington Department of Agriculture, 2013) and maintains a list of producers of certified hay and mulch. • Prior to clearing, the WEP will be surveyed for areas that may be infested with priority noxious weeds that are listed in the specific county’s priority noxious weed list and that require control. The results of these surveys will be provided to the specific county’s Noxious Weed Control Board. Surveys will be conducted by Northwest’s EI or authorized representative in consultation with the applicable county’s Noxious Weed Control Board. Northwest’s EI or authorized representative will have expertise in identifying noxious weeds and will be able to provide prevention training and appropriate invasive plant identification resources to contractors prior to beginning construction. Infested areas will be controlled in a manner consisted with RCW 17.10 prior to clearing. Identified noxious weed infestations will be cleared using standard best management practices as prescribed by the local county Noxious Weed Control Board and using methods that minimize transport of weed seeds, roots, and rhizomes or other vegetative materials and soil from the site along the construction ROW. • Before stockpiling cleared vegetation and salvaging topsoil in areas where infestations have been identified or noted in the field, the contractor will control the noxious weed infestations as practicable to reduce the transport of soil-born noxious weed seeds, roots, or rhizomes. If noxious weed seeds or other propagative parts, such as rhizomes, are mixed in with other cleared vegetation, the material will not be transported offsite unless it is contained and disposed of an appropriate sanitary landfill. • During revegetation, the contractor will return topsoil and vegetative material from infestation sites to the areas from which they were stripped. Any clearing equipment used in areas of county-listed weeds will be cleaned by hand or blown down with air prior to leaving the sites. Where possible, equipment will be rinsed off onsite, within a contained area. Infested areas will be mapped to ensure that these areas will be monitored during operations so that the weeds will be controlled and not spread. • Where weed control is necessary, Northwest will employ mechanical methods (mowing, disking) to prevent the spread of these weeds or will employ a licensed contractor to ensure that the appropriate herbicides are used for the targeted weed species during the proper phenological period at the specified rate. Northwest will work with landowners and the county Noxious Weed Control Board to remove identified noxious weed communities in a manner that is consistent with the county’s recommended practices and the landowner’s preference, consistent with 18 CFR Part 380.15(e)(3). Methods likely to be employed include mechanical means, biological controls, and species-specific application of herbicides (with landowner approval). • Weed control measures will conform with the requirements outlined in RCW 17.10 and Washington Administrative Code 16-750. The contractor will ensure that the herbicides are used according to the labeling restrictions and according to all applicable laws and restrictions. The contractor will confirm that the herbicides are used under the proper seasonal and weather conditions to ensure the herbicides’ effectiveness and to minimize drift to nontargeted areas. Herbicides will not be applied during precipitation events or when precipitation is expected within 24 hours or as specified on the label. Herbicides will not be used within 100 feet of a wetland or waterbody unless allowed by the appropriate agency. Prior to herbicide application, Northwest and/or its contractor will obtain all required permits from the local jurisdictions/authorities. ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-9 Northwest will use invasive species BMPs suggested by the appropriate county Noxious Weed Control Board. 5.18 Monitoring and Maintenance Northwest will test, operate, and maintain the proposed WEP facilities in accordance with 49 CFR Part 192 and other applicable federal and state regulations. The pipeline ROW will be clearly marked where it crosses public roads, railroads, rivers, fenced property lines, and other locations as necessary. All pipeline facilities will be marked and identified in accordance with applicable regulations to avoid accidental excavation. Routine vegetation maintenance (mowing and selective herbicide treatments) will not occur more frequently than every 3 years. However, to facilitate periodic corrosion and leak surveys, a corridor not exceeding 10 feet in width centered on the pipeline may be maintained annually in an herbaceous state. Northwest will not conduct vegetation maintenance over the full width of the permanent ROW in wetlands and waterbody riparian areas. Vegetation maintenance adjacent to waterbodies will allow a riparian strip at least 25 feet wide, as measured from the mean high water mark of the waterbody, to permanently revegetate with native plant species across the entire construction ROW if permitted by the landowner. 5.18.1 Upland Areas Northwest will conduct follow-up inspections of all disturbed areas after the first and second growing seasons to determine the success of revegetation. Revegetation will be considered successful in upland areas if upon visual survey the density and cover of non-nuisance vegetation are similar in density and cover to adjacent undisturbed lands, and noxious weeds are not present. If vegetative cover and density are not similar or there are excessive weeds after two full growing seasons, a professional agronomist or equally qualified professional shall determine the need for additional restoration measures. Northwest will continue revegetation efforts until revegetation is successful. Northwest will control noxious weeds regulated under RCW 17.10 that occur in the ROW until the site has been stabilized. Repair of erosion control structures will occur until the ROW has successfully revegetated and has stabilized. Once the site is stabilized, temporary erosion control measures will be removed. 5.18.2 Waterbodies and Wetlands Post-construction monitoring will be conducted twice during the first year following construction at approximately 6-month intervals and annually thereafter for a total of 3 years or until successful revegetation is complete, whichever is longer. Every attempt will be made to assess streams at the same time of year as their preconstruction site visit. The post-construction monitoring will focus on identifying problems with bank stabilization and revegetation. During post-construction monitoring events, Northwest or a contractor will look for trench subsidence and erosion indicators such as gullies, undercutting banks, bare ground, bank slumping, and evidence of sheet erosion. If initial erosion control features are shown to be inadequate or if erosion control structures fail, Northwest will retain a contractor to conduct remedial actions as soon as site conditions allow. Repairs or remedial actions could include additional seeding or transplanting, installing more robust erosion/sediment control materials, maintaining or replacing the initial erosion control features, placing boulders or LWD, slope armoring, additional mulching, or matting. If trench subsidence is observed, Northwest will direct the contractor to fill and compact the trench to grade with appropriately sized substrate. If trench remediation is required below the ordinary high water mark, all activities will be conducted within authorized WDFW in-water work periods. Revegetation monitoring will include a qualitative assessment of the following parameters in comparison to adjacent undisturbed areas: • Percentage of total adjacent herbaceous cover (seeded/transplanted species plus desirable volunteers) • New or expanded populations of noxious weeds • Species composition Post-construction surveys will be conducted by experienced biologists. ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-10 5.18.2.1 Success Criteria A criterion for establishing adequate vegetation recruitment will be defined in the final Construction, Restoration, and Monitoring Plan following consultation with WDFW and DNR. For example, areas may be considered successfully reestablished if, after the first year, disturbed areas contain at least 50 percent of the herbaceous cover of adjacent undisturbed areas, with no bare spots greater than 2 feet in any dimension, and the species composition is a mixture of seeded/replanted species and desirable volunteers. At the end of 3 years, success may be defined as at least 80 percent of the herbaceous cover of adjacent undisturbed areas. Areas with poor reestablishment or undesirable species mixes will be evaluated to determine, if possible, the cause of the problem (that is, poor germination, poor planting technique, herbivory), and corrective measures will be undertaken. Potential corrective measures include replanting, planting an alternative species mix, or protecting existing seedling from herbivory. Northwest will control any noxious weeds regulated under RCW 17.10 until the revegetation is successful. The reclaimed ROW will be considered stable when the surface appears similar to adjacent undisturbed land and the following accelerated erosion indicators do not exist: • Perceptible soil movement (exceeding preconstruction conditions) • Flow pattern development resulting in rills or gullies greater than 3 inches deep • Evidence of sheet erosion • Evidence of siltation in stream substrates of the crossing • Perceptible movement of in-stream rock or woody debris • Trench subsidence or slumping 5.18.2.2 Reporting Following each monitoring period (twice during the first year and annually thereafter), Northwest will prepare a report for submittal to the appropriate agencies. The report will contain the following: • Summary of bank vegetation recruitment and species composition as compared with adjacent undisturbed areas • Assessment of the condition of transplants in riparian areas • Discussion of non-native species/noxious weeds in disturbed areas • Description of any deviations from the monitoring plan • Discussion of revegetation performance and an assessment of whether revegetation goals are being met • Any observations not included on monitoring forms that further elucidate the success or potential for failure of revegetation/restoration efforts • Identification of areas that require remedial action • Recommendations and schedule for remedial action(s) • Before/after photo pairs for each crossing • Monitoring forms 5.18.2.3 Adaptive Management Contingency Plan Relative to stream crossings, adaptive management will focus on several areas: post-construction rehabilitation of stream banks; monitoring slope stability and landslides; and monitoring changes in stream geomorphology that have potential to expose the pipeline and have an effect on fluvial processes. Each area has independent time horizons. For example, expectations for rehabilitation fall within a timeframe of 3 years in which successful establishment can be measured and determined to be adequate. Slope and landslide risks are events that are monitored periodically, and continuously during the rainy season when soils are saturated. Depending on gradient, soils, and substrate, mass movements may be measured in terms of strains or ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-11 imperceptible movements from year to year, which can be followed by a sudden catastrophic event. Fluvial processes that result in vertical scour or channel migration are typically events, under normal circumstances, that occur over periods of decades to centuries and therefore may extend beyond the design life of the project. Rehabilitation of Stream Banks. The purpose of semiannual to annual post-construction monitoring is to determine the success of plantings and stability of bioengineered bank restoration. At any point during the designated monitoring period, typically 5 to 10 years, corrective actions may be required if survival rates and plant cover are inadequate or if bank stabilization methods failed. Northwest will assess potential reasons for subpar performance or stabilization failure by evaluating a number of issues, including but not limited to the following: species composition, appropriateness of time of year of plant installation, quality of materials, causes of plant mortality, and whether bank or stream restoration procedures were properly engineered and installed. Adaptive management will be designed to address the specific reasons for subpar performance or stabilization failures. This may require substitute plant material, replanting, repairs, regrading, or reinstallation of stabilization structures. In wetland areas, revegetation will be considered successful if the cover of herbaceous and/or woody species is at least 80 percent of the type, density, and distribution of the vegetation in adjacent wetland areas that were not disturbed by construction. If revegetation is not successful at the end of 3 years, Northwest will develop and implement (in consultation with a professional wetland ecologist) a remedial revegetation plan to actively revegetate the wetland and will continue revegetation efforts until wetland revegetation is successful. Northwest will control any noxious weeds regulated under RCW 17.10 until the re-vegetation is successful. Routine vegetation maintenance (mowing and selective herbicide treatments) shall not be done more frequently than every 3 years. However, to facilitate periodic corrosion and leak surveys, a corridor not exceeding 10 feet in width centered on the pipeline may be maintained annually in an herbaceous state. Northwest will not conduct vegetation maintenance over the full width of the permanent ROW in wetlands and waterbody riparian areas. Vegetation maintenance adjacent to waterbodies will allow a riparian strip at least 25 feet wide, as measured from the mean high water mark of the waterbody, to permanently revegetate with native plant species across the entire construction ROW if permitted by the landowner. 5.18.3 Data Storage and Analysis Data collected during field reconnaissance, preconstruction, and post-construction surveys will be collected in log books, on field maps, on data sheets, in photographs, and in electronic form. The data will be put through quality control procedures every evening after data collection by the field biologists who collected the data and in the office after field downloads. Monitoring data will be stored and maintained by Northwest or its contractor. Data will be entered into geographic information system (GIS) or other standard database(s) for use and storage and will be made available to agencies within 30 days of a request. Data tables will be normalized to ensure consistent data formats among survey events. Where appropriate, data will be stored as attribute tables associated with GIS, either as part of shape files or as geodatabases. Selected datasets will be made available via File Transfer Protocol or other Web-based protocols. Following each monitoring period (twice during the first year and annually thereafter) for a total of 3 years or until successful revegetation is complete, whichever is longer, Northwest will prepare a report for submittal to WDFW and other appropriate agencies. The report will contain the following components: • Summary of bank vegetation recruitment and species composition as compared with adjacent undisturbed areas • Assessment of the condition of transplants in riparian areas • Discussion of non-native species/noxious weeds in disturbed areas • Tabular and graphical summaries of results • Description of any deviations from the monitoring plan • Discussion of restoration performance and assessment of whether restoration goals are being met ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 RESTORATION AND REVEGETATION 5-12 • Any observations not included on monitoring forms that further elucidate the success or potential for failure of revegetation/restoration efforts • Identification of areas that require remedial action • Recommendations and schedule for remedial action(s) • Before/after photo pairs for each waterbody crossing • Monitoring forms Northwest will contact the agencies immediately if there is a loss of fish passage or if dead fish are observed. These reports will be submitted to WDFW and other appropriate agencies for a minimum of 30 days for review and comment. After the 30-day review period, Northwest will meet with the agencies if necessary to discuss any comments, recommendations, and future actions at the sites. If actions are required at any site, Northwest will prepare a plan of action for that year, with a 30-day minimum review. Upon agency approval, Northwest will implement the plan of action. 5.18.4 Monitoring Quality Assurance Plan To ensure the quality of the monitoring program, Northwest will implement quality assurance and quality control procedures and apply them to the following aspects of the monitoring plan: • Data collection • Data storage • Data analysis and reporting The Northwest monitoring program manager will be responsible for quality assurance. Northwest will be responsible for ensuring that data collected within various disciplines meet professional standards and comply with appropriate methodologies and protocols. Where data must be integrated either for analysis or reporting, Northwest will develop consistent procedures. The following items will be addressed: • Exact location and documentation of monitoring locations • Training of individuals collecting data • Documentation and records management regarding how field data are recorded, including development of standardized monitoring forms • Data review, validation, and verification requirements cross-checking field data sheets, looking for data gaps, checking calculations, looking for outliers) • Data management protocols • Reporting procedures ---PAGE BREAK--- SECTION 6 6-1 References Cramer, M.L. (managing editor). 2012. Stream Habitat Restoration Guidelines. Co-published by the Washington Departments of Fish and Wildlife, Natural Resources, Transportation, and Ecology; Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office; Puget Sound Partnership; and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Olympia, Washington. Federal Energy Regulatory (FERC). 2013a. Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, and Maintenance Plan. May 31, 2013. Federal Energy Regulatory (FERC). 2013b. Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures. May 31, 2013. Lasmanis, R. 1991. The Geology of Washington: Rocks and Minerals. Vol. 66, No. 4. Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). 2012. Web Soil survey. http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/HomePage.htm. Washington Department of Agriculture. 2013. Washington Wilderness Hay & Mulch Management (WWHAM) Program. http://agr.wa.gov/PlantsInsects/WWHAM/WWHAM.aspx. Washington Department of Ecology. 2012. Western Washington Stormwater Management Manual. Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 2012. The Geology of Washington State. geolofwa.aspx. Last accessed September 26, 2012. Web site contained modified text from the following article: Lasmanis, R. 1991. The Geology of Washington: Rocks and Minerals. Vol. 66, No. 4, pp. 262-277. Copyright Heldref Publications. Western Regional Climate Center (WRCC). 2013. Kent, Washington Period of Record Climate Summary. http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/cgi-bin/cliMAIN.pl?wa4169. ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Attachment 1 Best Management Practice Typical Drawings ---PAGE BREAK--- Drawings in Attachment 1: 1408.34-X-0001 Typical Construction Entrance Access Pad 1408.34-X-0002 Typical Sediment Barrier – Silt Fence (Filter Fabric) Option, Sheet 1 of 3 1408.34-X-0002 Typical Sediment Barrier – Straw Bale Option, Sheet 2 of 3 1408.34-X-0002 Typical Sediment Barrier – Straw Wattle Option, Sheet 3 of 3 1408.34-X-0003 Temporary Sediment Barriers/Drivable Berms Adjacent to Road Crossings 1408.34-X-0004 Sediment Control in Ditches and Swales, Sheet 1 of 2 1408.34-X-0004 Sediment Control in Ditches and Swales, Sheet 2 of 2 1408.34-X-0005 Crossing Detail for Wetlands, Sheet 1 of 2 1408.34-X-0005 Crossing Detail for Wetlands, Sheet 2 of 2 1408.34-X-0006 Waterbody Crossing Detail, Dam-and-Pump Method 1408.34-X-0007 Waterbody Crossing Detail, Flumed Crossing Method 1408.34-X-0008 Typical Temporary and Permanent Slope Breakers 1408.34-X-0009 Typical Erosion Control Matting, Sheet 1 of 4 1408.34-X-0009 Typical Erosion Control Matting, Sheet 2 of 4 1408.34-X-0009 Typical Erosion Control Matting, Sheet 3 of 4 1408.34-X-0009 Typical Erosion Control Matting, Sheet 4 of 4 1408.34-X-0010 Typical Portable Bridge Crossing, Sheet 1 of 2 1408.34-X-0010 Typical Portable Bridge Crossing, Sheet 2 of 2 1408.34-X-0011 Trench Breaker Installation 1408.34-X-0012 Typical Hydrostatic Test Dewatering Structure, Sheet 1 of 3 1408.34-X-0012 Typical Hydrostatic Test Dewatering Structure, Sheet 2 of 3 1408.34-X-0012 Typical Hydrostatic Test Dewatering Structure, Sheet 3 of 3 1408.34-X-0013 Typical Trench Dewatering, Sheet 1 of 3 1408.34-X-0013 Typical Trench Dewatering, Sheet 2 of 3 1408.34-X-0013 Typical Trench Dewatering, Sheet 3 of 3 1408.34-X-0014 Stormwater Inlet Protection, Sheet 1 of 2 1408.34-X-0014 Stormwater Inlet Protection, Sheet 2 of 2 1408.34-X-0015 Interceptor Dikes and Swales 1408.34-X-0016 Pipe Drain 1408.34-X-0017 Typical Soil Stockpile Cover, Sheet 1 of 2 1408.34-X-0017 Typical Soil Stockpile Cover, Sheet 2 of 2 1408.34-X-0018 Typical Coir Roll ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-18-12 CEII NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0001 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-18-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0002 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-18-12 1408.34-X-0002 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-18-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0002 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-18-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0003 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-18-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0004 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-18-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0004 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv3 01-11-131408 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0005 PROPOSED PIPELINE CL TYPICAL (SEE 1408.34-x-0002) (SEE 1408.34-x-0002) ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv3 01-11-13 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0005 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-18-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0006 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0007 TYPICAL CONSTRUCTION CORRIDOR ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0008 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0009 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0009 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0009 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0009 WASHINGTON DEPT. OF FISH & WILDLIFE ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0010 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0010 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv5 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0011 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0012 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0012 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0012 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv1 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0013 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0013 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0013 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0014 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0014 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-2112 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0015 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0016 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0017 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0017 ---PAGE BREAK--- ES073012083325PDX 457498.01.DB.EP.02.01 Rv2 12-21-12 NORTHWEST PIPELINE GP WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT 1408.34-X-0018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Attachment 2 Streambank and Streambed Restoration Methods ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- ATTACHMENT 2 Stream Bank and Streambed Restoration Methods Vegetation Alone Vegetation is established on bare soils to help prevent surficial erosion, minimize shallow seated mass movement, provide habitat, and enhance aesthetics or visual appearance. Live Staking Live staking is used for revegetation, soil reinforcement, and anchoring erosion control materials. Willow cuttings are typically 1.5 to 3.3 feet long, 2/3 inserted in the ground. The portion of the stem in the soil will grow roots and the exposed portion will develop into a bushy riparian plant. Erosion Control Blankets Erosion control blankets are temporary, rolled products consisting of flexible nets or mats manufactured from natural materials, usually straw, wood, excelsior, or coconut. Various grades of biodegradable fibers and netting are available. ---PAGE BREAK--- ATTACHMENT 2 Stream Bank and Streambed Restoration Methods Rootwad Revetments Rootwad revetments are interlocking tree materials that are continuous and resistive. The materials are designed to resist erosive flows, usually on the outer bank of a meander bend when habitat diversity is desirable and woody materials are available. Live Gully Fill Repair Live gully fill repair consists of alternating layers of live branch cuttings and compacted soil. This reinforced fill can be used to stabilize trench backfill and is suitable for filling and repairing elongated voids in a slope. ---PAGE BREAK--- ATTACHMENT 2 Stream Bank and Streambed Restoration Methods Turf Reinforcement Mats Turf reinforcement mats (TRMs) are long lasting and designed to resist shear and tractive forces. They are specified for banks subjected to flowing water. Mats are ultraviolet fibers in a three- dimensional matrix. TRMs work with plant roots and shoots to be mutually reinforcing. The mats are best suited for low-energy systems with natural herbaceous riparian areas. Native grasses are used. Vegetated Geogrids Vegetated geogrids are used to quickly establish riparian vegetation. Geogrids can be installed on a steeper and higher slope and have a higher initial tolerance of flow velocity than brush layering. The grid produces a newly constructed, well-reinforced streambank. This method is useful in restoring outside bends where erosion is a problem. The geogrid captures sediment and enhances conditions for colonization of native species. Slope stability analyses are recommended. The geogrid can be used to retain fines. Engineered Log Structure Engineered log structures provide protection to the streambank in areas with near vertical banks where bank sloping options are limited. The structure creates a natural appearance, provides immediate protection, and accelerates the establishment of woody species. Effective on outside of bends of streams where high velocities are present. Appropriate at the base of a slope where a low wall might be required to stabilize the toe and reduce slope steepness, and above and below water levels where stable streambeds exist. ---PAGE BREAK--- ATTACHMENT 2 Stream Bank and Streambed Restoration Methods Constructed Riffles Pools and riffles are common features found in natural or altered streams. Constructed riffles, such as Newbury Riffles, are intended to replace pool and riffle habitat lost due to channelization or other types of stream alterations. The riffles provide benthic habitat and contribute to bed stability. Although the coarse material that comprises constructed riffles is not intended to be mobile during higher flows like natural riffle material, correctly-designed structures function similar to natural features. Slope Flattening Slope flattening is most successful on streambanks where moderate erosion and channel migration are anticipated. Reinforcement at the toe of the embankment is often needed. Used in conjunction with other protective practices where flow velocities exceed the tolerance range for available plants, and where erosion occurs below base flows. Slope stability analyses are recommended. Sources: McCullah, and D. Gray. 2005. Environmentally Sensitive Channel and Bank-Protection Measures. Report 544. Transportation Research Board. Washington, DC. Newbury, R. Gaboury, M. and Watson, C. 1999. Field Manual of Urban Stream Restoration—Illinois State Water Survey, Champaign, Illinois. ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX J2: DRAFT UNANTICIPATED DISCOVERY OF CONTAMINATION PLAN ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Draft Washington Expansion Project Unanticipated Discovery of Contamination Plan Prepared for Northwest Pipeline GP June 2013 Prepared by ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Contents Section Page II Acronyms and Abbreviations iii 1.0 Pre-Job Planning 1 2.0 Unanticipated Discovery Response 1 Attachment 1 Worksheet A – Known or Suspected Contaminated Sites ---PAGE BREAK--- III Acronyms and Abbreviations CI Chief Inspector EDR Environmental Data Resources EI Environmental Inspector EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Northwest Northwest Pipeline GP ROW right-of-way ---PAGE BREAK--- 1 Unanticipated Discovery of Contamination Plan The intent of this Unanticipated Discovery of Contamination Plan is to outline practices to employ in the event of an unanticipated discovery of contamination in soil, groundwater, and sediment when excavating during construction and/or maintenance activities, as well as debris or waste materials deposited on the pipeline right- of-way at Northwest Pipeline GP (Northwest) facilities. The purposes of this plan are to: • Protect human health and worker safety; • Prevent the spread of contamination; and • Comply with applicable state and/or federal regulations. 1.0 Pre-Job Planning When planning a project at Northwest facilities and/or along the pipeline right-of-way (ROW), the Chief Inspector (CI), Environmental Inspector (EI), District Manager, and/or their designees shall complete a review of the proposed pipeline and/or aboveground facility locations prior to the construction and/or maintenance activity in order to assess the potential for the presence of known or potential contamination. An assessment should also be made of the likelihood of encountering contamination during an excavation or along the surface. The scope of the review and assessment will depend upon the size of the project, past experience, and available information. For pipeline construction projects, the review and assessment will consist of a site reconnaissance of the proposed work area, interviews with property owners, and a review of any readily available information. It may also be necessary to consult with the Environmental Permits and Natural Resources and/or Environmental Compliance Departments to conduct an environmental database search Environmental Data Resources [EDR] search) and/or perform additional investigation. Generally, it is not anticipated that this review will identify contamination along the ROW, but it will likely identify areas where there is a higher potential for contamination. For maintenance-related excavations at compressor and meter stations, these have a higher likelihood of encountering something unexpected due to the age of these facilities as well as the use of regulated substances at these facilities. If it is determined that there is a high likelihood that the planned work will be conducted in close proximity to, or within, known or suspected contaminated sites, the Environmental Permits and Natural Resources and Environmental Compliance Departments should be consulted. The results of this search/investigation will be reviewed prior to start of construction and/or maintenance activity and any identified contaminated sites and/or areas will be located and available information reviewed for potential impacts. In the event the planned work will impact a confirmed contaminated site, the Environmental Compliance Department will work with the appropriate regulatory agency, property owner, and responsible party to ensure the construction and/or maintenance activities are conducted in accordance with applicable and established site requirements. Where feasible, a re-route or other modification to the project should be considered. Postponement of the project may also be necessary. If contaminated sites are identified for areas of the project, a list of the sites should be kept along with how the determination was made (EDR, property owner, agency report, etc.). An example of this list is included in Worksheet A in Attachment 1. 2.0 Unanticipated Discovery Response In the event unanticipated contaminated soil, groundwater, or other potential environmental contamination is encountered during the project malodorous soils and/or groundwater with visible staining and/or sheen), the following general procedures will be implemented: ---PAGE BREAK--- UNANTICIPATED DISCOVERY OF CONTAMINATION PLAN 2 1. All construction and/or maintenance work in the immediate vicinity of areas where suspected contamination or unknown wastes are encountered will be halted. 2. All construction, oversight, and observing personnel will be evacuated to a road or other accessible up-wind location until the types and levels of potential contamination can be verified by qualified personnel. This assessment may include, but not be limited to: observation by a qualified health and safety professional, field screening using the appropriate air sampling devices, and/or laboratory analysis of suspect material. 3. The CI, EI, and/or District Manager will be notified and they will consult with the company’s Environmental Compliance Department. The contacts for the Environmental Compliance Department will be provided prior to construction. 4. Following consultation with onsite personnel, the Environmental Compliance Department will be responsible for designating follow-up actions, including mobilizing emergency response personnel and coordinating with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and/or state and local agencies as appropriate. 5. If an immediate or imminent threat to human health or the environment exists, the EI, CI, District Manager, and/or their designee will immediately contact the appropriate responding agency. For construction projects, the contact numbers for fire, police, and the state environmental hotline can be found on the Environmental Contacts List for the project. 6. If an immediate or imminent threat to human health or the environment does not exist, or has been abated, a determination will be made, after consulting with all responsible parties, whether any remedial action is necessary. If the company or its qualified contractor personnel is responsible for any remedial action, it will be limited to the planned work area only and no additional disturbance should be made except as needed to facilitate construction and/or maintenance activities. − Representative samples of the suspected contaminated media soil, water, and waste) may need to be submitted for laboratory analysis to determine waste classification and/or agency notification requirements, which can vary from state-to-state. − The CI, EI, District Manager, and/or their designee shall consult with the Environmental Compliance Department for the appropriate analyses, sampling methodology, and sampling frequency. − Any excavated soils or waste that are suspected of containing contamination above the appropriate cleanup standard, or otherwise regulated for disposal, will be placed on plastic sheeting and covered at the end of each work day or placed in an appropriate container to prevent the spread of contamination. Containers must be closed or covered and any storage areas cordoned off with orange safety fence. All containers should be clearly labeled with the name of the contents and any known hazard associated with the material identified on the container. Known hazardous wastes should be labeled with the words “Hazardous Waste” and the date the waste was placed in the container. − Water or groundwater suspected of being contaminated will not be discharged to grade without prior state approval. Options such as onsite storage tanks or discharge to a publicly owned treatment works should be considered. Limiting and/or diverting the flow of clean surface water away from the affected area, as well as other measures, may be implemented to minimize impacts and exposure to the work area. 7. If it is determined that the company or its qualified contractor will be responsible for arranging for disposal of any affected media (soil, water, waste), the material will be characterized and disposed of properly at a permitted facility in a timely manner. All disposal documentation should be obtained and filed in the project files and copies sent to the Environmental Compliance Department. − If EPA-regulated hazardous wastes, Toxic Substances Control Act wastes, or state hazardous wastes are generated, an EPA generator identification number will need to be obtained. The Environmental Compliance Department must be contacted to assist in either obtaining a project-specific identification number or providing an EPA identification number for an existing facility. ---PAGE BREAK--- Attachment 1 Worksheet A – Known or Suspected Contaminated Sites ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Worksheet A – Known or Suspected Contaminated Sites Instructions: Please complete a separate sheet for each location where contamination has been noted. I. Site Name II. Physical Location III. How Contamination Determination Was Determined (visual, sampling, smell, etc.) ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX J3 WASHINGTON EXPANSION PROJECT WATER QUALITY MONITORING PLAN ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Draft Washington Expansion Project Water Quality Monitoring Plan June 2013 Prepared by Northwest Pipeline GP ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Contents Section Page II Acronyms and Abbreviations iii 1 Introduction 1‐1 2 Purpose 1‐1 3 Responsibilities 2‐1 4 Construction Stormwater and Trench Dewatering Discharges 3‐1 4.1 Monitoring and Sampling 4‐1 4.2 Reporting 4‐1 4.3 Records Retention 4‐2 4.4 Recording of Results 4‐2 4.5 Noncompliance Notification 4‐2 4.6 Laboratory Analyses 4‐2 5 Waterbody Crossings 4‐1 5.1 Crossing Methods 5‐1 5.2 Monitoring and Sampling 5‐1 5.3 Reporting 5‐2 5.4 Records Retention 5‐2 5.5 Noncompliance Notification 5‐2 6 Hydrostatic Test Water 5‐1 6.1 Monitoring and Sampling 6‐1 6.2 Reporting 6‐1 6.3 Records Retention 6‐1 6.4 Recording of Results 6‐1 6.5 Noncompliance Notification 6‐2 6.6 Laboratory Analyses 6‐2 Attachments 1 Waterbodies Crossed by Washington Expansion Project ---PAGE BREAK--- III Acronyms and Abbreviations cfs cubic feet per second DMR discharge monitoring report Ecology Washington Department of Ecology Northwest Northwest Pipeline GP NTU nephelometric turbidity unit TPH total petroleum hydrocarbons WEP Washington Expansion Project ---PAGE BREAK--- 1-1 SECTION 1 Introduction This Water Quality Monitoring Plan addresses the requirements for water quality monitoring associated with construction of Northwest Pipeline GP’s (Northwest’s) Washington Expansion Project (WEP). This Plan addresses monitoring requirements associated with construction stormwater runoff and pipeline trench dewatering activities, waterbody crossings, and hydrostatic test water release. The Plan sets forth the monitoring procedures as well as reporting and record‐keeping requirements. ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- 2-1 SECTION 2 Purpose The purpose of this Plan is to set forth procedures for water quality monitoring that will be followed by Northwest and its contractor during construction of the WEP. ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- 3-1 SECTION 3 Responsibilities Northwest is responsible for ensuring that all Northwest and contractor personnel associated with construction of the WEP are familiar with the requirements set forth in the Section 401 Water Quality Certification and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Construction Stormwater General Permit as well as the procedures set forth in this Plan. The contractor is responsible for carrying out the procedures set forth in this Plan as directed by Northwest. ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- 4-1 SECTION 4 Construction Stormwater and Trench Dewatering Discharges 4.1 Monitoring and Sampling Potential discharges to receiving waters that may occur during construction include stormwater runoff and water from trench dewatering. It is not possible, prior to construction, to determine the locations for trench dewatering because it will depend on conditions in the field at the time of construction (such as seasonal groundwater levels) and the need for dewatering to access the trench. However, if it is determined that there is a discharge occurring either to surface water or groundwater, water quality monitoring will be initiated according to this Plan. A discharge to surface water or wetlands would occur if it is observed that stormwater or water from trench dewatering is channeling and reaching surface water or wetlands. The potential outfalls for a discharge to surface water have been defined as the waterbodies that will be crossed by the proposed pipeline, which are listed in Attachment 1. If it is determined that there is a discharge to surface water or wetlands, weekly monitoring for the following parameters shall be initiated:  Turbidity. If stormwater or water from dewatering is discharged to surface water or wetlands, monitoring (a grab sample) shall be conducted for turbidity at the receiving water and at the point of discharge. In the receiving water, monitoring shall be conducted both upstream and of the discharge point. The effluent limitation for turbidity is 25 nephelometric turbidity units (NTU) at the point where stormwater is discharged from the site or nor more than 5 NTU over background turbidity when the background turbidity is 50 NTU or less, and shall not have more than a 10 percent increase in turbidity when the background turbidity is more than 50 NTU.  Total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH). If stormwater or water from dewatering is discharged to surface water or wetlands and there is a visible sheen on the water, monitoring (a grab sample) shall be conducted for TPH at the point of discharge and in the receiving water. If there is no visible sheen, monitoring for TPH is not required. The maximum daily TPH effluent limitation for discharges to surface water is 5 milligrams per liter and no visible sheen at any time.  pH. Monitoring for pH is required if engineered soils concrete soil mixtures) are used and for the discharge of hydrostatic test water. Monitoring (a grab sample) shall be conducted for pH on a weekly basis at the point of discharge. The effluent limitation for pH is in the range of 6.5 to 8.5 standard units. It is assumed pH sampling will not be necessary except at potential open‐cut road crossings where concrete soil mixture backfill may be used. 4.2 Reporting The first monitoring period begins on the effective date of the permit. Monitoring results shall be submitted to Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) Monitoring data obtained during each monitoring period shall be summarized, reported, and submitted on the discharge monitoring report (DMR) forms through Ecology’s Water Quality Web Permitting Portal (WQWebPortal). DMR forms shall be received by Ecology no later than the 15th day of the month following the completed monitoring period. The DMRs shall be sent to: Coordinator/Water Quality Washington Department of Ecology Northwest Regional Office 3190 – 160th Avenue SE Bellevue, WA 98008‐5452 ---PAGE BREAK--- 4 CONSTRUCTION STORMWATER AND TRENCH DEWATERING DISCHARGES 4-2 DMRs must be submitted whether or not the WEP was discharging. If there was no discharge during a given monitoring period, Northwest will submit the form as required, with the words “No discharge” entered in the place of monitoring results. For outfalls that had discharges during a given monitoring period, detailed DMR forms for each associated discharging outfall must be submitted. 4.3 Records Retention The records of all monitoring information (site log book, inspection reports/checklists, etc.), this Water Quality Monitoring Plan, the WEP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, and any other documentation of compliance with permit requirements will be retained during the life of the construction project and for a minimum of 3 years following the termination of permit coverage in accordance with permit condition S5.C of the Construction Stormwater General Permit. 4.4 Recording of Results For each measurement or sample taken, Northwest shall record the following information:  Date, exact place, method, and time of sampling or measurement  Individual who performed the sampling or measurement  Dates the analyses were performed  Individual who performed the analyses  Analytical techniques or methods used  Results of analyses 4.5 Noncompliance Notification If Northwest is unable to comply with any of the terms and conditions of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit, the following steps shall be taken:  Immediately take action to stop, contain, and clean up unauthorized discharges or otherwise stop the noncompliance, correct the problem, and, if applicable, immediately repeat sampling and analysis of the noncompliant activity.  Immediately notify Ecology of the failure to comply. After immediate notification, Northwest shall submit a detailed, written noncompliance report to Ecology within 5 days after becoming aware of the violation. The report shall contain a description of the noncompliance, including exact dates and times, and if the noncompliance has not been corrected, the anticipated time it is expected to continue, and the steps taken or planned to reduce, eliminate, and prevent recurrence of the noncompliance.  Northwest shall document the follow‐up monitoring triggered by noncompliance. Frequency of follow‐up monitoring is once per day for each violated parameter until three consecutive daily samples show the discharge(s) is back in compliance. These monitoring results shall be reported on the DMRs. 4.6 Laboratory Analyses Prior to construction, Northwest will select a laboratory properly certified with the State of Washington to perform analyses of water quality samples. If it is determined that sampling for TPH is necessary (as determined by a visible sheen on the water), bottles provided by the laboratory must be used to collect the samples. A supply of bottles should be obtained from the laboratory and kept onsite so that they are readily available if it is determined that sampling for TPH must be conducted. Chain‐of‐custody forms will be supplied by the laboratory and must be used. The sample bottles may have preservative in them and care should taken to not spill the preservative when collecting the sample. Once the sample is collected, it should be driven or shipped overnight to the laboratory. ---PAGE BREAK--- 5-1 SECTION 5 Waterbody Crossings 5.1 Crossing Methods The WEP crosses many waterbodies, which vary in class. Intermittent waterbodies will be crossed within the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife‐recommended window for using flume or dam‐and‐pump methods if water is present at the time of construction. Waterbodies that are dry at the time of construction will be crossed by open‐cut methods. 5.2 Monitoring and Sampling During in‐water construction, visual monitoring (inspections) of both the work area and the areas upstream and of the work area will be conducted during and periodically between sampling efforts for turbidity. Inspections of these areas will occur during work activity and hourly throughout all in‐water construction activity. Samples for turbidity will be collected at each in‐water construction location, including all waterbodies crossed by trenching with use of a flume or dam‐and‐pump methods. Sampling will occur every 2 hours throughout the first day of in‐water construction activity at each location of such work. Subsequent sampling is dependent upon monitoring results, but will be a minimum of three times per day during in‐water activity if no exceedances are detected. Sampling and visual monitoring will increase if turbidity exceedances are observed or measured to be above the temporary mixing zone criteria provided below. For waterbodies flowing 10 cubic feet per second (cfs) or less at the time of construction (small waterbodies), the point of compliance will be 100 feet of the in‐stream activities. Samples will be taken at the following locations: 1. At a site just upstream of the work area to determine background water quality 2. At a site half the distance (50 feet between the activity and the point of compliance (100 feet to provide a margin of safety to protect water quality 3. At the point of compliance 100 feet of the in‐stream activities For waterbodies flowing between 10 cfs and 100 cfs at the time of construction (medium‐sized waterbodies), the point of compliance will be 200 feet of the in‐stream activities. Samples will be taken at the following locations: 1. At a site just upstream of the work area to determine background water quality 2. At a site half the distance (100 feet between the activity and the point of compliance (200 feet to provide a margin of safety to protect water quality 3. At the point of compliance 200 feet of the in‐stream activities For sampling sites that must deviate from those designated above, Northwest will identify the reason for the deviation and propose an alternative sample location. Turbidity will be measured using a turbidimeter properly calibrated according to the operator’s manual. The effluent limitation for turbidity is 25 NTU at the point where stormwater is discharged from the site or nor more than 5 NTU over background turbidity when the background turbidity is 50 NTU or less, or have more than a 10 percent increase in turbidity when the background turbidity is more than 50 NTU. If water quality sampling at half the distance between the activity and the point of compliance of the activity indicates that the turbidity plume compared to the background turbidity exceeds the 5 NTU or 10 percent increase, Northwest will reduce or eliminate the rate of activity immediately until turbidity at half the distance between the activity and the point of compliance is within the turbidity criteria. After such an event, Northwest will assess the ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 WATERBODY CROSSINGS 5-2 efficacy of the site best management practices and update or improve the best management practices used at the work site in an effort to reduce or prevent recurrence of the turbidity exceedance in the waterbody (state waters). 5.3 Reporting The first monitoring period begins on the effective date of the permit. Monitoring results shall be submitted to Ecology Monitoring data obtained during each monitoring period shall be summarized, reported, and submitted on the DMR forms. DMR forms shall be received electronically through Ecology’s WebDMR program (http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/permits/paris/webdmr.html) no later than the 15th day of the month following the completed monitoring period. If Northwest is unable to submit electronically (for example, those who do not have an internet connection) must contact Ecology to request a waiver and obtain instructions on how to obtain a paper copy DMR at: Department of Ecology Water Quality Program Attn: Stormwater Compliance Specialist P.O. Box 47696 Olympia, WA 98504‐7696 If Northwest obtains a waiver not to use WebDMR, it must use the forms provided to them by Ecology; submittals must be mailed to the address above. DMRs must be submitted whether or not the WEP was discharging. If there was no discharge during a given monitoring period, Northwest will submit the form as required, with the words “No discharge” entered in the place of monitoring results. For outfalls that had discharges during a given monitoring period, detailed DMR forms for each associated discharging outfall must be submitted. 5.4 Records Retention Monitoring and sampling reports will be retained as part of this Water Quality Monitoring Plan. 5.5 Noncompliance Notification If the results of visual inspections or turbidity monitoring/sampling exceed the 250 NTU phone reporting level value at the point of discharge, Northwest will immediately telephone the Ecology Northwest or Southwest Region’s Environmental Report Tracking System within 24 hours. Northwest will immediately take action to prevent the discharge/pollution, or otherwise stop or correct the noncompliance, and, if applicable, repeat sampling and analysis of any noncompliance immediately and submit the results to Ecology within five days of becoming aware of the violation. Northwest will provide Ecology with the following information: 1. A description of the nature and cause of noncompliance, including the quantity and quality of any unauthorized discharges 2. The period of noncompliance, including exact dates, durations, and times and/or the anticipated time when Northwest will return to compliance 3. The steps taken, or to be taken, to reduce, eliminate, and prevent recurrence of the noncompliance Reports summarizing the scope of inspections, the personnel conducting the inspections, the results of turbidity sampling (both visual and physical), the dates of the inspections and/or sample events, and actions taken as a result of the inspections or monitoring results will be prepared and submitted to Ecology bi‐weekly (every other week). ---PAGE BREAK--- 6-1 SECTION 6 Hydrostatic Test Water 6.1 Monitoring and Sampling Northwest plans to discharge hydrostatic test water within several test segments and waterbodies along the right‐ of‐way. All hydrostatic test water will be discharged to a discharge structure (straw bale containment structure) and at no time is the water allowed to flow into rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, wetlands, or other surface waterbodies (other than as minor seepage after the discharge has been treated through the straw bale containment structure). Any minor seepage shall not result in erosion or scouring of the rivers or creeks. The volume of the discharge shall not exceed 10 percent of the river or creek flow at the time of the discharge and shall not result in a visible increase in turbidity in the receiving water. Prior to and during the discharge, whichever is applicable, monitoring shall take place for the following parameters:  Flow. The volume of the discharge shall be measured in gallons (per batch).  TPH. Prior to discharge, the hydrostatic test water shall be monitored for TPH. The maximum daily TPH effluent limitation for discharge of the hydrostatic test water is 10 milligrams per liter.  Chlorination. Northwest shall test the source water for chlorine. If chlorine levels are at a concentration of 0.1 parts per million or less, no further testing is required. If the chlorine levels are at a concentration of greater than 0.1 parts per million, Northwest shall ensure that all discharges occur to the land surface for infiltration.  pH. Monitoring for pH is only required if engineered soils are used in the catchment where the water is being discharged. If engineered soils are used, monitoring (a grab sample) shall be conducted for pH (per batch). The effluent limitation for discharges to groundwater for pH is in the range of 6.5 to 8.5 standard units. (pH monitoring is not expected to be necessary.)  Oily sheen. The hydrostatic test water and the water in the discharge structure shall be visually inspected (per batch) for an oily sheen.  Diesel range petroleum hydrocarbons, or heavy oils. Northwest shall inspect the soils after infiltration is complete and if there is a visible layer of petroleum hydrocarbons on the soils, composite soil samples shall be collected from a depth of 0 to 12 inches at an area where a layer of petroleum hydrocarbons is observed. The effluent limitation for diesel range petroleum hydrocarbons or heavy oils is 2,000 milligrams per kilogram. 6.2 Reporting Reporting requirements are the same as described in Section 5.2, Monitoring and Sampling, of this plan. 6.3 Records Retention Records of all monitoring information (site log book, inspection reports/checklists, etc.), this Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, and any other documentation of compliance with permit requirements will be retained during the life of the construction project and for a minimum of three years following the termination of permit coverage in accordance with permit condition S5.C of the Construction Stormwater General Permit. 6.4 Recording of Results For each measurement or sample taken, Northwest shall record the following information:  Date, exact place, method, and time of sampling or measurement  Individual who performed the sampling or measurement ---PAGE BREAK--- 6 HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER 6-2  Dates the analyses were performed  Individual who performed the analyses  Analytical techniques or methods used  Results of analyses 6.5 Noncompliance Notification Noncompliance notification is the same as described in Section 5.5, Noncompliance Notification, of this plan. 6.6 Laboratory Analyses Prior to construction, Northwest will select a laboratory properly certified with the State of Washington to perform analyses of water quality samples. Prior to release of the hydrostatic test water, the water in the pipe shall be sampled for TPH. Bottles from the laboratory must be used to collect the sample. A supply of bottles should be obtained from the laboratory and kept onsite so that they are readily available prior to the discharge. Chain‐of‐custody forms will be supplied by the laboratory and must be used. The sample bottles may have preservative in them and care should be taken to not spill the preservative when collecting the sample. Once the sample is collected, it should be driven or shipped overnight to the laboratory. The water should not be discharged from the pipe to the discharge structure until the results of the analysis are known. If, after all the water has infiltrated to the ground, there is a visible layer of oil on the soil, a composite sample of the soil shall be obtained and sent to the laboratory for analysis. ---PAGE BREAK--- Attachment 1 Waterbodies Crossed by Washington Expansion Project Table contained in Appendix K1 ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX J4 HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLING MONITORING AND CONTINGENCY PLAN ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- J4-1 Horizontal Directional Drilling Monitoring and Contingency Plan This horizontal directional drilling (HDD) monitoring and contingency plan provides specific preventative and mitigative measures to be used by Northwest Pipeline GP (Northwest) and its contractors during HDD installation. This is a preliminary plan, and specific procedures will be developed during final design for each location based on site‐specific conditions. HDD operations potentially pose a risk to wetlands and waterbodies through an inadvertent release of drilling fluid. An inadvertent release occurs when the drilling fluid seeps through fractured overburden soil and finds a path to the ground surface. Drilling fluid typically consists of a mixture of bentonite, water, and soil cuttings. This mixture is not hazardous or toxic, but it could affect the water quality of any waterbody if introduced. Inadvertent release can occur at any place along any point of an HDD installation, although they are more likely to be observed at the entry and exit points (locations where the drilling bit or head is shallow). If an inadvertent release occurs and no control measures are in place, the drilling fluid could potentially reach the surface water or wetland that is above the HDD installation. The contingency plan detailed in the following subsections will outline measures to minimize the potential for an inadvertent release. This plan also addresses the methodology that will be used to detect inadvertent releases, as well as countermeasures to be taken should an inadvertent release be detected. Planning and Prevention HDD crossings will be conducted only during recommended in‐water work periods to minimize impacts from a potential inadvertent release. Northwest will use nontoxic bentonite‐clay mixtures of drilling mud to assure that, if an inadvertent release occurs, it will not result in toxicity to aquatic life in the stream. The contractor performing the HDD must have experienced personnel onsite who are familiar and experienced with the procedures for this type of installation. Before drilling activities begin, the contractor must submit any certifications and documentation of at least 2 years of experience for all personnel who will be performing drilling work. The Environmental Inspector must inspect all HDD activities with additional oversight from a utility inspector when available. Before any HDD occurs, a safety meeting will take place, the inadvertent release contingency plan will be discussed, and any questions will be answered. From the day‐to‐day maintenance routine, the drilling personnel will be aware of what materials are critical during an inadvertent release and assure that these items are on hand. Because drilling fluid seepage resulting from an inadvertent release can be easily controlled on land where it has the greatest potential to occur, containment items such as lumber for temporary day operation and shoring, sand, portable pumps, hand tools, silt fence, and hay bales will be stored at the drilling sites. The drilling contractor will also have heavy equipment such as backhoes that can be used to control and clean up drilling fluid seepage. Before drilling, the work area(s) will be flagged and the limits defined. Erosion and sediment controls (including silt fence, straw wattles, and temporary sediment trap) will be installed at the entrance and exit pits as needed to control surface erosion or migration of drilling fluid. Additional materials will be kept onsite at a designated location, and the presence of these materials will be verified in advance of any drilling activities. These materials will be placed in a dedicated location and denoted as the inadvertent release containment response kit. The kit will contain the following items:  Silt fence  Straw wattles  Silt curtain (in‐water work)  Straw bales  Submersible pumps ---PAGE BREAK--- J4-2  Specialized filters  Generator  Appropriate hand tools  Vacuum truck (available on call)  Light towers for work at night  Heavy equipment, such as backhoe or dozer, for containment and cleanup of drilling mud  Boat for major waterbody crossings to allow for monitoring of releases to water Inadvertent Release Monitoring Once HDD begins, monitoring will be performed to determine whether an inadvertent release could occur. The bentonite mixture will be adjusted to match the conditions of the subsurface. The pressure levels will be set as low as possible, and the levels will be closely monitored to verify that the pressure on the drilling fluid is set to match the formation. The pressure should not exceed what is needed to penetrate the formation. HDD is a technically advanced process involving skilled operators. The detection of an inadvertent release before it occurs is highly dependent on the skills and experience of the drilling crew. Each drilling situation is unique in that the behavior of the subsurface material is variable and difficult to predict. In‐hole monitoring equipment for detecting an inadvertent release is not available. Detection of an inadvertent release relies on the proper interpretation of site‐specific conditions with the potential to cause an inadvertent release. For this reason, Northwest will use firms that specialize in HDD to perform the HDD crossings. The selection and supervision of this drilling contractor will be the responsibility of Northwest. An inadvertent release occurs when pressure in the hole is no longer maintained. The most obvious signs of an inadvertent release are surface seepage or loss of circulation of the drilling fluid. One of the functions of the drilling fluid is to seal the hole to maintain the downhole pressure. During drilling, the pressure will be closely watched and randomly checked by the Environmental Inspector (EI) or utility inspector. As the boring progresses, the pressure will be inspected and documented. Any drop in the pressure could indicate a potential inadvertent release, and drilling will be halted at the discretion of the EI. However, some loss of drilling fluid is also normal in the drilling process. During the drilling process, loose sand, gravel layer, or rock fracture could be encountered. These occurrences will require additional drilling fluids to fill in the voids. Consequently, drilling fluid loss in and of itself is not an indication of an inadvertent release. The loss of drilling fluid in combination with other factors may indicate a potential inadvertent release. For example, if there is a loss of drilling fluid and the return cuttings do not show a large quantity of gravel, then a loss of containment pressure within the hole may have occurred. Inadvertent Release Response Should the results of the monitoring indicate that an inadvertent release has occurred, the drilling will be stopped immediately and corrective actions implemented. The only pressure causing the inadvertent release to occur is the pressure from the drilling fluid pumps. Therefore, the most direct corrective action is to stop the drilling fluid pumps. By stopping the pumps, the pressure in the hole will quickly bleed off. With no pressure in the hole, the inadvertent release will stop. As soon as surface seepage is detected, the pumps will be stopped temporarily until the response process has contained the release. Once the cleanup process has contained the release, drilling activities will immediately resume while monitoring the pressure to prevent additional inadvertent release. If an inadvertent release occurs in the waterbody, there may be a visible plume. Minor seepage may be difficult to detect owing to the turbidity of the waterbodies and the high specific gravity of bentonite clay drilling fluid. Only minimal pressure will occur to disturb sediments because of the distance that the drilling fluid must travel to reach the surface. The composition of the drilling fluid is primarily water and bentonite clay. If a small amount is released into the creek, the currents will quickly dissipate the inadvertent release. If seepage is detected in the creek, the drilling activities will continue, but corrective measures, if any, will be taken to try to minimize the seepage. If an inadvertent seepage does occur in the waterbody, it will be monitored and documented, but drilling activities will not be suspended unless returns create a threat to public health and safety. Additionally, no cleanup work in the waterbodies is proposed in response to a minor inadvertent release. ---PAGE BREAK--- J4-3 There is greater potential for an inadvertent release at the entry and exit locations. In the contingency planning for the HDD crossings, drilling fluid seepage at the entry and exit locations has been considered, and preventive actions have been developed. The entry and exit locations on all HDD crossings have dry land segments where drilling fluid seepage can be easily detected and contained. To isolate and contain potential drilling fluid seepage at each of the drill sites, a berm can be built around the entire drilling site area. Hay bales or silt screen can also be part of the berm on the water side of the drilling area. To contain and control drilling fluid seepage on the land area, earth‐moving equipment such as backhoes or small bulldozers, portable pumps, sand, silt fences, and hay bales will be available at each of the drilling sites. Any drilling fluid seepage will first be contained and isolated using dirt berms, hay bales, or silt screens. The seepage will then be immediately cleaned up from the area and hauled or pumped to one of the storage pits at the closest drilling site. After the drilling fluid seepage has been contained, the drilling contractor and Northwest will make every effort to determine why the seepage occurred. Once Northwest has determined the cause of the seepage, measures will be developed to control the factors causing the seepage and to minimize the chance of recurrence. Developing the corrective measure will be a joint effort of Northwest and the drilling contractor and will be site and problem specific. In some cases, the corrective measure may involve a determination that the existing hole encountered a void, which could be bypassed with a slight change in the profile. In other cases, it may be determined that the existing hole encountered a zone of unsatisfactory soil material and the hole may have to be abandoned. If the hole is abandoned, it will be filled with cuttings and drilling fluid. Inadvertent Release Notifications In the event of an HDD drilling fluid release to waterbodies, sensitive areas, or riparian areas, appropriate local, state, and federal agencies will be notified. All appropriate agencies will be notified of the inadvertent release within 24 hours. Table 1 lists the agencies that will be notified. The following information will be provided to agencies:  Time of inadvertent release  Location of release  Quantity and type of material released and amount of recovered materials  Containment and cleanup measures  Location of sensitive areas near the release TABLE 1 Agency Contact List in the Event of an Inadvertent Release Agency Contact Person Position Location Contact Number Washington Department of Natural Resources TBD Forest Practices Division Manager U.S. Army Corps of Engineers TBD Project Manager Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife TBD Regional Manager(s) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Contacted by the National Response Hotline U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service TBD Branch Manager ---PAGE BREAK--- J4-4 Abandonment and Contingency A borehole will need to be abandoned if an inadvertent release cannot be avoided, or if an inadvertent release has occurred that cannot be controlled. The borehole will be completely abandoned and a new location determined. Any borehole abandonment locations will be documented and shown on any as‐built documents. If corrective actions do not prevent or control unacceptable releases of drilling fluid, Northwest may opt to redrill the hole along a different alignment. The HDD borehole will not simply be abandoned completely if difficulties are encountered during drilling or reaming of the borehole, or during pipe pullback operations. In fact, complete abandonment of an HDD borehole rarely occurs within the industry. Before abandoning a borehole, the HDD contractor will implement remedial measures to attempt to resolve the problems without the need for abandonment of the borehole. However, if problems with the borehole or section of the borehole cannot be resolved, the affected section of the borehole will be filled with grout, consisting of nontoxic, nonhazardous materials, to preclude communication between nearby boreholes. The following procedures will be implemented to abandon the drill hole:  To seal the abandoned drill hole, thickened drilling fluid will be pumped into the hole as the drill assembly is extracted, and plugs will be used to create a cap.  Closer to the surface at drilling locations (within approximately 10 feet of the HDD entrance), a soil cap will be installed by filling the borehole with soil extracted during construction of the pit and berms.  The borehole entry location for HDD segments will be graded and seeded by the contractor to its original grade and condition after the drill hole has been abandoned.  The contractor will drill a second pilot hole beginning near the initial entry point along a track that parallels the initial borehole. A root cause analysis of the failed HDD will be conducted to minimize the risk of subsequent failure. The root cause analysis will guide the development of potential alternatives for the drilling plan. Depending on the cause of a failure, it would be preferable to continue to use the partially drilled pilot hole already underway, and simply redirect the drilling deeper or laterally around the cause of the failure, if possible, rather than initiate a secondary pilot hole. If the cause(s) of the failure indicate that a completely new, “secondary” pilot hole is necessary, the separation distance required will depend entirely on the cause of the failure. Northwest anticipates that only the drill alignment between the original entry point and exit point will be adjusted deeper or laterally such that no additional work areas will be required. Before the initiation of a completely new “secondary” pilot hole, a modification request would be provided to the appropriate agencies.