Species at Risk Training Babine Business AreaUpdated 2013 by BCTS Staff

Purpose

The purpose of this document is to provide basic information for each of the species at risk identified in the Bulkley, Morice, and Lakes Timber Supply Areas (TSA) within the BCTS, Babine Business Area.

Species selection is based on the information provided by the Ministry of Environment’s “BC Species and Ecosystem’s Explorer” search engine which can be found @ http://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/eswp/

The MoE’s “Explorer” uses the following data-sharing sites to verify the status of each species: Provincial status, which is based on the “NatureServe Explorer” @ http://www.natureserve.org/visitLocal/index.jsp BC List, which is based on the British Columbia Conservation Data Center (CDC) @ http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/cdc/ COSEWIC (federal) – Committee On the Status of Endangered Species In Canada SARA (federal) – Species At Risk Act @ http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/ Global (International) Conservation Status, which is also based on the “NatureServe Explorer”

The “Explorer” is capable of running several different queries based on specific criteria such as plant vs. animal, geographic location, Conservation Status, Legal Designation, etc. The “Explorer” is useful in many ways but should be used only as a guide with some of the data being either out-of-date or inaccurate. Be sure to cross-reference certain information to confirm it’s validity.

The MoE’s “Explorer”, which is managed by the BC Conservation Data Center (CDC), is the number one source for identifying species at risk in BC. The CDC’s goal is to assist in preserving the biodiversity of the province by providing accurate information on species and ecological communities at risk. Each of these species and ecological communities is a assigned a global and provincial status ranking according to a set of criteria established by the Nature Conservancy (United States). Provincially, each species is placed on either a Red, Blue, or Yellow list, as per the Provincial Conservation Status Rank.

Red – includes any indigenous species, subspecies or ecological community that is Extirpated, Endangered, or Threatened;

Blue – includes any indigenous species, subspecies or ecological community considered to be Vulnerable (= Special Concern);

Yellow – list of ecological communities and indigenous species that are not at risk, some of which have management requirements.

Federal Level

Species at Risk can be identified at both the federal and provincial level.

At the federal level, the following data-sharing sites are used:

Committee On the Status of Endangered Wildlife In Canada (COSEWIC) - managed by Environment Canada; committee of experts that assess and designate which wildlife species are in some form of danger; uses the best available information relevant to determine a wildlife species’ risk of extinction or extirpation, which is obtained from a credible source; as a result, develops the prioritized COSEWIC Candidate List; http://www.cosewic.gc.ca/eng/sct5/index_e.cfm

Species at Risk Act (SARA) – federal government commitment to prevent wildlife species from becoming extinct and secure the necessary actions for their recovery; species designated by COSEWIC may qualify for legal protection and recovery under SARA; manages the “Species at Risk Public Registry” which is an online service accessible to the public; the “Species at Risk Act” is available through this website @ http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/default_e.cfm

NatureServeCanada – non-profit organization; provides scientific basis for effective conservation action; includes network of natural heritage programs or data centers operating in the U.S., Canada, and central America; collect and manage data which is used by both the public and private sectors globally; http://www.natureserve-canada.ca/

At the provincial level, the following provincial data-sharing sites are used:

BC Conservation Data Centre (CDC) - established in 1991; managed by BC Ministry of Environment; collects and distributes information on species and ecosystems at risk in BC; manages the BC Species and Ecosystems Explorer search tool; http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/cdc/

Identified Wildlife Management Strategy (IWMS) – initiative of the MoE in partnership with FLNRO; carried out under the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA); document was originally released in 1999; new volume released in May 2004; in 2006, 45 species were added to the list; as of August 2012, MoE staff are actively pursuing completing designations for the existing 82 species; webisite @ http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/frpa/iwms/index.html

Ungulate Winter Range (UWR) – an area that contains habitat that is necessary to meet the winter habitat requirements of an ungulate species; based on interpretations by MoE staff using current scientific and management literature, local knowledge, and other expertise from the region; regulatory authority for establishing UWRs is outlined in Sections 9 and 12 of the Government Actions Regulation (GAR) of the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA); approved UWRs are found @ http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/frpa/uwr/approved_uwr.html

Wildlife Act – managed provincially; legislative foundation for the interaction of people and wildlife in BC; allows for conservation and management of wildlife populations and habitat, issuing licenses and permits for fishing game hunting and trapping; guidelines for safe angling and trapping and outfitting policies; website @ http://www.bclaws.ca/EPLibraries/bclaws_new/document/ID/freeside/00_96488_01

Provincial Level

Provincial sites continued….

Conservation Framework – managed provincially by MoE; provides a set of decision support tools to enable collaboration between government and non-government resource managers and practitioners using clearly defined criteria to 1) prioritize species and ecosystems for conservation, and 2) determine the most appropriate and effective management actions; http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/conservationframework/

Hectares BC - pilot project to test the concept of a new tool for geospatial data analysis in the natural resource sector; allows non-GIS users to work with geographic information without the need for GIS skills; assists in planning, assessment, reporting, and decision making functions; http://www.hectaresbc.org:22080/app/habc/HaBC.html

Provincial Level

Additional Reference Material

Additional reference material that can be used to obtain information on SAR include:

The Fish Protection Act –focuses on four major objectives: ensuring sufficient water for fish, protecting and restoring fish habitat, improved riparian protection and enhancement, and stronger local government powers in environmental planning; website found @ http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/habitat/fish_protection_act/#first

Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA) – govern the activities of forest and range licensees in BC; sets the requirements for planning, road building, logging, reforestation, and grazing; maintains high levels of protection for forest values including watersheds and wildlife habitat; encourages innovation by skilled resource professionals and holds industry responsible for outcomes; includes Forest Stewardship Plans (FSP)

The Natural Resource Compliance Act – introduced in Fall 2011, authorizes ministry personnel to enforce a broader range of legislation (as described above) across the natural resource sector; helps streamline the inspection process and enforcement procedures.

Land and Resource Management Plans (LRMP) – directs the management of provincial Crown land in the Plan Area for the next ten years; provides direction in terms of maintaining and protecting resources within a designated land-use area; consistent with provincial government policy; reflects the Consensus Management Direction (CMD) established by the Bulkley Valley Community Resources Board (the Board) and a team of government representatives, and in consultation with First Nations and local government.

Species Listings – Amphibians & Fish

Species Latin District COSEWIC

BC CDC SARA UWR LRMP

Amphibians

Coastal Tailed Frog

Ascaphus truei

Both Special Concern (2011)

Blue Yes N/A No

Western Toad

Anaxyrus boreas

Both Special Concern (2002)

Blue No N/A No

Fish

Bull Trout Salvelinus confluentus

Both Candidate (2011)

Blue Yes N/A Yes – Morice

Cutthroat Trout

Oncorhynchus clarkii

clarkii

Both N/A Blue Yes N/A No

Coastal Tailed Frog

Identification: Tadpoles have large sucker-like mouth and white-tipped tail. 2-5 cm long from nose to rump with a large head and long legs. Skin has a “grainy” appearance, ranging in color from tan to brown to olive

green. Eyes have vertical pupils. External tympanum (the round “ear” visible on other frogs) is absent. Males have a tail which is the same colour and texture as the frog’s back. Eggs are colourless and laid in a string.

Habitat: Characterized by year-round flow, non fish-bearing, intermediate

gradient (>2.5%), coarse substrates (>6 cm), stable channel beds, wind-firmstands, and frequent side-pools.

Known to occur in the area immediately west of the Copper Forest Development Unit in the Bulkley TSA.

Growth/Mating: Grow very slowly, taking up to four years for the tadpoles to metamorphose into

adults. Possible to live for 15-20 years, making them one of the longest-lived frogs in

the world. Mating takes place in the fall; egg-laying the following summer; hatchlings

overwinter in the calmer waters and then move to the stronger current once their oral suckers have developed to let them cling to rocks.

Decline: Harvesting activities can reduce the quality of their habitat by removing thermal

cover (increased water temperature), deteriorating water quality (sedimentation possible), and destroying valuable overwintering habitat (machines chew up the forest floor, squishing the species).

Western Toad

Identification: Adults range in length from 5-15 cm. Their skin appears dry and bumpy, ranging in colour from pale

green to red. They typically have pale-coloured bellies mottled with black,

and a pale stripe down their back. Their gold-flecked eyes have distinctive horizontal pupils. Behind each eye is a parotoid gland (kindey-shaped swelling). Tadpoles are either black or charcoal coloured with a dark,

rounded fin along the length of their tail. Juveniles are similar to adults but as small as 6mm long; Eggs look like small black pearls laid single-file in the form of

long strips; individual eggs are black above and white below. Generally if you run into a toad in the bush, it’s a Western Toad.

Western Toad

Habitat: Preferred breeding sites include permanent or temporary water

bodies that have shallow sandy bottoms. After breeding, adults disperse into terrestrial habitats such as

forests and grasslands. Prefer damp conditions, spending much of their time

underground (capable of digging their own burrows in loose soil).

They generally shelter in small mammal burrows, beneath logs, and within rock crevices.

Hibernate in burrows that are below the frostline (up to 1.3 m underground.

Growth/Mating: Adults migrate to communal breeding sites in early spring; The eggs develop quickly into tadpoles which hatch in the

warmest, shallowest water. By the end of summer, the tadpoles transform into toadlets and

leave the water.

Decline: Harvesting activities in and around wetlands can destroy or

isolatepopulations;

Migrating toads are killed by traffic on roads; Pollution from gas, oil and anti-freeze spills are considered a

threat.

Bull Trout

Identification: Long body (20-60cm) with enlarged head and

jaws; similar to dolly varden but bull trout’s upper jaw curves downward, and the head is significantly larger and broader.

Non-spawning colour is olive-green to bluish-grey with a white belly; spots cover the silvery sides;

When in spawning condition, the pigmentation on the belly becomes bright red and lower jaw becomes distinctly hooked upwards.

Habitat: Cool, fast-flowing water with a good mix of

riffles and pools. Coldwater tributaries with deep lakes <15

degrees celsius are preferred. Streambeds with a wide range of medium to

large coarse substrates are preferred. Large woody debris accumulations preferred. Adept at colonizing small, steep-gradient step-

pool systems (>20% gradient in some cases).

Bull Trout

Decline:General trend for bull trout is stable to diminishing.Fragmentation of populations through road building and timber removal near their habitat.Obstructions to bull trout movement include perched culverts, stream channel instability,

increasing water temperatures, sedimentation, debris loading and lack of cover. Increased poaching and non-compliance with conservative regulations due to remote

regions being developed. Increased road building resulting in increased angling pressure.

Cutthroat Trout clarkii clarkii ssp.

Identification:Distinctive red, pink or orange stripe just below both sides of the lower jaw (where the name

“cutthroat” originates from).Generally dark green to greenish-blue on back; olive-green on upper flank; silvery on lower

flank and belly.Gill covers are pinkish. Large mouth extends well past the eye;Small irregular-shaped spots cover the head, sides of the body, dorsal fin, and often the

belly and fins.Sexually mature fish have a rose tint underneath;Sea-run individuals are silvery; sometimes their bellies have a distinct lemon-colour, while

freshwater fish are usually darker, with a coppery or brassy sheen;Generally <50cm long.

Cutthroat Trout clarkii ssp.

Habitat: Known to occur in the headwaters of the Skeena River. Freshwater habitats include lowland streams, rivers and lakes with gravelly

substrates. Small, clean, low-gradient streams are needed for spawning (young

cutthroat spend up to three years rearing in these streams). Well-shaded streams with water temperatures <18 degrees celsius. Some resident trout spend their entire life in a one small pool. Inhabit remote waters in mountainous terrain. Spawning usually occurs in the spring but fall spawning is possible.

Decline: Their dependence on small streams for spawning and rearing

makes them especially vulnerable as small streams can be easily altered or destroyed by development.

Removing streamside vegetation and timber can increase the water temperature making the stream inhospitable for the fish.

Road building activities can lead to sedimentation (destroys eggs) and fragmentation.

Poorly placed culverts can prevent fish passage. Harvesting strategies that reduce LWD input rates can lead to

long-term reduction in habitat capacity as LWD in the channel decomposes without replacement.

Species Latin District COSEWIC BC CDC SARA UWR LRMP

American Bittern

Botaurus lentiginosus

Both No Blue No N/A No

Great Blue Heron

Ardea herodias

Both Special Concern

Blue No N/A No

Northern Goshawk

Accipiter gentilis

Both No Yellow No N/A Yes (Morice)

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

anatum

Nadina Special Concern

Red Threatened N/A No

Short-eared Owl

Asio flammeus

Both Special Concern

Blue Special Concern

N/A No

Swainson’s Hawk

Buteo swainsoni

Skeena-Stikine

No Red No N/A No

Species Listings - Birds

American Bittern

Identification: Length: 60 cm; wingspan: 110 cm. Yellowish-brown bird with brown streaking on the

neck and breast. Black stripe borders white throat and yellow bill. Legs and feet are yellowish-green. Similar appearance to immature Black-crowned

Night-Heron, which lack the brown streaking and black stripe on their neck.

Field Identification: Platform nest, 30 cm in diameter, built on mud or

stable waters in emergent vegetation. Prefer marshes and wetlands with thick,

extensive stands of bulrushes, cattails or sedges. Arrive in early May and migrate south in the fall. Breeding season extends from May to mid-

August. Eggs (usually 4-5) are laid in May through to July. Diet includes small mammals, garter snakes, and

voles when available (sufficient CWD). Easily identified by it’s low, booming call, “pump-

er-lunk, pump-er-lunk”, that can be heard hundred of meters away.

American Bittern

Habitats: Intimately tied to wetlands throughout the year.Cattail marshes are the preferred habitat throughout its range,

particularly during breeding season.Sloughs, flooded fields with tall grass, lake edges, riparian

willow thickets, swamps, riverbanks, sewage ponds, and occasionally agricultural fields.

Breeding birds typically inhabit large wetlands (>4 ha).Known to forage in areas immediately adjacent to wetlands.

Decline:This species is sensitive to the extent and condition of wetland

habitats and, as a result, is placed on the provincial “blue” list despite the species being relatively stable in Canada.

Great Blue Heron

Identification:Measures up to 60 cm in height with the

neck relaxed, and up to 140 cm with the neck extended.

Wingspan averaging 1.5 m wide.Blue-grey body with white head and black

stripe above the eye.The neck is mainly white with black

streaks.Bill is long and yellowish. Immature herons are similar to the adults

but have a black head instead of white.Holds head in an “S” curve when in flight.

Great Blue Heron

Habitat: Large, stick nests (platform) up to one meter in diameter, lined with twigs, bark and/or

rushes. Nests are located 4-70 m high in mature trees adjacent to foraging/breeding grounds.

Field Identification:Occurs year-round on the Pacific Coast and occasionally inland to the Bulkley Valley.Colonies range in size from 2-400 nests with some pairs nesting solitarily.Foraging grounds include aquatic habitats such as wetlands, riverbanks and lakeshores.

Decline:Forestry can impact heron habitat through

the removal of active or potential nest trees.

Forest fragmentation can lead to windfall and may increase access to, or visibility of, breeding colonies for predators, thereby reducing the amount of suitable breeding habitat.

Northern Goshawk

IdentificationApproximately 50-70 cm tall; 1.1 m wide

wingspan.Blue-grey dorsal plumage with grey

streaking (mottling) on the chest and belly.Tail is dark-colored, long and narrow. Short, rounded wings which allow for easy

travel through interior forests.The most noticeable feature is a white

stripe over a yellow or red eye.

Juveniles are brown instead of grey and have a yellow eye.Cooper’s Hawk is similar looking but mostly brown and

lacking the white stripe above the eye.

Northern Goshawk

Field Identification: Large stick nests (platform) approximately one meter in

diameter and 0.4 m deep; usually built on lateral branches against the tree trunk in the lower portion of the main canopy.

Avoid building nests within 100-200 m of a forest edge.

Habitats: Mature coniferous, deciduous, or mixed stands that are

even-aged with a closed canopy and open understory (to allow for easy flying);

Prefer stands with thick-limbed trees whose branches are positioned on the lower portion of the bole.

Require relatively large tracts of contiguous forested stands.

Decline: Forest fragmentation through the reduction of mature

forest is considered the biggest threat. Road building and increased use by recreationalists and

hunters can lead to nest abandonment. Competition from more open-country species, such as Red-

tailed Hawks, in response to logging. Reduction in prey base due to loss of their habitat and

stand structural diversity.

Peregrine Falcon

Identification:Crow size, 41-50 cm tall; wingspan up to 1.0 m wide.Distinctive black head with wide “sideburns”.Adults are dark grey above with light-colored barring

below. Juveniles are similar looking but brown-coloured. Dark, narrow tail and tapered wings.Prairie Falcon is similar in appearance but sandy-

coloured instead of grey-coloured with a white stripe over the eye.

Field Identification:Nests are simple scrapes that range from 17-22 cm in

diameter and 3-5 cm deep; no nest material is added, but debris may accumulate around the scrape.

Occasionally, peregrines will occupy abandoned bird nests (e.g. other raptors or cliff nesting birds).

Usually nest on rock ledges high on steep cliffs, mostly in undisturbed or inaccessible areas.

Eggs are laid in a “scrape” on a part of the ledge that is sheltered by a rock overhang.

Peregrine Falcon

Habitats:Prefers open habitats such as wetlands, agricultural land and clearcuts but will also hunt

over open forest.Directly linked to the availability of prey.

Decline: Loss of wetland and agricultural land threatens prey supply.Harvesting activities near nesting or foraging sites can lead to abandonment. Increased road access allows poachers to steal eggs or chicks or install

traps for catching adults.

Short-eared Owl

Identification:Crow size, 30-40 cm in height, 85-110 cm

wingspan. Plumage is mottled tawny to brown with a barred

tail and wings. Dark areas (like mascara) surrounding yellow

eyes.Very round facial disk.Chest is light-coloured with brown spots/stripes. Ear “tufts” may or may not be visible. Bill is short, strong, hooked and black. Black patch near bend in wings (“wrist”).

Field Identification:Known to use nests or holes abandoned by other

birds.Nests are concealed by low vegetation, and may

be lightly lined by weeds, grass, or feathers. Approximately 4-14 white eggs are typical. Usually seen just before dark in open habitats.

Habitat:Generally found in clearcuts where there is

enough Coarse Woody Debris to support a healthy population of rodents and small mammals.

Short-eared Owl

Decline: Reproductive success is low due to predation. Fragmentation of their habitat results in lower population

numbers, which can be exacerbated by severe winters. Vole species, a primary prey species, are also susceptible to

harvesting activities. As a ground nesting species, hazards such as grass fires,

flooding, and road development can easily destroy their nests.

Swainson’s Hawk

IdentificationApproximately 45 cm in length; wingspan averaging 120-140

cm.Easily identified by dark chest-band or “bib”.Generally a dark-brown bird with white chest and face.

Field Identification:Nests are 1.0 m across and built out of twigs and grasses.Typically nests in isolated trees or bushes and sometimes cliff

edges. Nests are located from 9-15 feet above the ground, often in

the shaded part of the tree.2 white eggs with brown or purplish blotching.Vocal: in spring makes distinctive oonk-a-lunk call

Swainson’s Hawk

Habitats:Known breeder in the Bulkley River basin.Nest sites include forested habitat in close proximity to open (clearcuts) and semi-open

country that support a sufficient supply of foraging opportunities including voles and mice. Generally adjacent to farmlands, grasslands, and wetlands to allow for hunting

opportunities.

Decline:Declining populations due to nest destruction from harvesting activities.Birds are easily disturbed during the nesting phase, resulting in abandonment.

Species Latin District COSEWIC BC CDC SARA UWR LRMP

Northern Caribou

Rangifer tarandus caribou

Both Threatened

Blue (2010)

Special Concern

Yes Yes – M/L/B

Fisher Martes pennanti

Both No Blue No N/A Yes – Morice

Grizzly Bear

Ursus arctos

Both Special Concern

Blue No N/A Yes – M/L

Moose Alces americanu

s

Both No Yellow No Yes Yes – M/L/B

Mountain Goat

Oreamnos americanu

s

Both No Yellow No N/A Yes – M/L

Wolverine Gulo gulo Both Special Concern

Blue No N/A No

Species Listings - Mammals

Caribou

Identification:Medium sized ungulate with long legs; shoulder height up to

1.6 m tall.Body color varies from chocolate-brown to a lighter shade of

brown during the late winter months (dark guard hairs fall out).

Neck, rump and underside of their tail are white. Their ears, tail and snout are short to minimize the loss of

body heat.Both sexes have antlers, which are C-shaped.

Field Identification: Look for signs of use in forests with abundant

lichens.Make a clicking sound with their feet when they

walk.Rounded tracks often with the impression of large

dew-claws just behind hooves; same size as those of a moose but much more rounded.

Droppings are black, irregular in shape, and about as wide and long as a thumb nail (deer are longer than they are wide).

Caribou

Habitats:Complex movement patterns dictated by snow depths and availability of lichens.During the late winter months, caribou congregate in open stands in the sub-alpine to feed on

lichens. In spring, they move to open stands or exposed areas where conditions are snow-free. In summer, they move to exposed sites in the alpine or snow-free pine stands in the valley bottom.As snow builds up in early winter, they shift down slope where the snow depths are reduced. In mid to late winter, depending on snow depth, they are found either at high elevations on

windswept slopes or at lower elevations in forested habitat; Large patches of mature forest allow caribou to avoid predators.

Decline:Forest fragmentation interrupts their

movement, forcing them to travel a greater distance to find food; as well as attract ungulates species that feed in cutblocks which draws predators to the area.

Removal of mature forest that support terrestrial and arboreal lichens, which are essential for winter survival.

Increased road access resulting in an increased probability of poaching and predation from wolves.

Man-made barriers restricting seasonal movements may adversely affect their access to food, thermal cover, and refuge.

Management Strategies:Maintain large tracts of habitat in a condition suitable for their needs – this means

managing harvesting operations from a landscape level to prevent a “checkerboard” of cutblocks and reserves.

Attempt to mimic the natural disturbance pattern in old-growth forests by completing partial-cuts.

Do not construct roads, trails or recreational sites in caribou habitat.Report caribou sightings or signs to the local Ministry.Obey access and recreation regulations, and report violations of these regulations.

Caribou

Fisher

Identification80-120 cm long; long, slender body. Long, bushy tail that comprises about one-third of

their total body length.Dense, dark brown to black fur coat.White-tipped fur around the shoulders and back

giving it a “grizzled” appearance.Pointed face, rounded ears, legs short with heavy

claws for climbing and digging. Looks like a marten but two to three times bigger.

Field Identification:Track pattern – hind foot overlaps with the front,

resulting in twin paw prints one slightly ahead of the other; prints are wider than long, 6-7 cm wide in snow, claws visible.

An agile climber, tracks may end abruptly at the base of a tree.

Often den in larger diameter (>90 cm in diameter), hollow cottonwood that are still alive; underground dens also used.

Use rust brooms for resting habitat.

Fisher

Habitats:Well-connected stands with an abundance of intact,

structurally diverse mature forest components of coniferous and deciduous species (especially cottonwood).

Fisher will utilize newer second growth forests where there is sufficient canopy cover, structural components and prey.

Generally avoid areas with low canopy cover, including wetlands and recently harvested areas.

Concerns: Loss of forested habitat and critical features (dens) through

harvesting activities is considered the biggest threat with fisher being forest-dependent.

Increased road access through harvesting activities increases the potential for targeted and incidental trapping.

Management Strategies:Contact the BC CDC with updates on sightings or signs.Maintain large diameter spruce and cottonwood along riparian

and riparian-associated areas. Increase awareness about the sensitivity of the Fisher to

disturbance.Recommend partial cuts in known or suspected fisher habitat.

Grizzly Bear

IdentificationSturdy with prominent shoulder hump (muscle

mass covered with long guard hairs).Massive head with upturned muzzle (dish-face

profile).Short round ears and longer front claws.Shaggy coat, pale, yellowish brown to dark

brown.Silvery white tipped hairs give a frosted effect.

Field Identification:Look for rub-marking trees, well-used paths

with tracks and droppings, and bedding areas.Dens are generally found at high elevation with

deep snowpacks on steep, north-facing slopes with soils suitable for digging; seldom use the same den.

Tracks include short, broad feet with five toes on both front and back feet; up to 15 cm long; claw imprint often difficult to see and well ahead of toe marks; toe imprints are aligned.

Grizzly Bear

Habitat:Wide variety of forested and non-forested sites occurring

in valley bottoms up to alpine meadows.Attracted to streams, seep areas, and lakeshore rich in

succulent vegetation, salmon, and berry bushes.Generally avoid areas where human activity is consistent.

Concerns: Increased road access through harvesting activities can

lead to better access for hunters and poachers, increased encounters with humans, and social disruption with other bears.

Extensive soil disturbance as a result of harvesting and site prep activities can reduce berry productivity in clearcuts.

Management Strategies:Be aware of identified grizzly bear polygons and reference

material.Ensure documents such as the LRMP and FSP are up-to-

date with current research and are effective in maintaining local populations.

Contact the BC CDC or your local ministry representative with any sightings or signs indicating grizzly activity.

Moose

Identification Coat is dark brown to black. Horse-like face with humped nose. Bell of skin or hair under the throat. Large, overhanging upper lip. Long legs; up to 2 m tall at the shoulder.

Field identification: Watch for tracks, scat, and beds along

well-developed trails. Browsing of balsam understory and

woody stemmed shrubs such as red-osier dogwood, willow species, and aspen;

“Rub” trees, usually balsam.

Habitat: Prefers mosaic of second-growth forest,

openings, swamps, lakes, and wetlands. Requires riparian areas for foraging and

deciduous forests for winter cover. Depth and duration of snow cover

determine their seasonal movements. Avoid wolves in the winter by utilizing

areas with deep snow packs.

Moose

Concerns: Removal of important foraging and wintering habitat through harvesting activities, as well as

corridors which are vital in highly fragmented landscapes. Increased road use, resulting in easier access for hunters/poachers, as well as collisions and

social disruption where the calf and mom are separated.

Management Strategies: Be aware of identified moose polygons in your area and any harvesting restrictions within the

polygon. Contact BCTS upon discovery of high moose habitat; take photos and GPS field indicators. Consult reference material such as the UWR and FSP for detailed management strategies. Discuss operational strategies with the development contractor to identify the best approach for

maintaining important habitat.

Mountain Goat

Identification: Blunt, squareish-looking body with a narrow head. Shaggy, white coat. Distinctive beard , short tails, and well-developed

shoulder muscles. Long black horns, 15-30 cm in length.

Field Identification: Hair, pellets, trails, and tracks (hoof prints). Tracks – the toes spread giving the track a square shape

with a “V” in front; tends to drag its feet creating a trough between prints.

Look for excavated snow down to the vegetative layer. Mineral licks are frequented by goats (and moose).

Habitat: Steep, exposed slopes capable of shedding snow and

providing escape routes (slopes >30 degrees) to prevent predation.

Rely heavily on mineral licks during the winter and early spring – generally found within 2 km of a lick.

Remain at lower elevations during the spring and early summer to take advantage of the new vegetation and smaller snow pack - move to higher elevations as new growth emerges and snow melts.

Mature and early (seral) forests are both used depending on the snow pack and foraging opportunities.

Mountain Goat

Concerns: The long-term impacts of forest canopy removal are of particular concern in relation to population viability,

migration routes, travel corridors, use of and access to mineral licks, and habitat selection. Improve access through harvesting activities can lead to increased snowmobile activity as well as pressure

from poachers. Newly constructed roads built in goat habitat can create movement barriers, resulting in the goats having to

expend additional energy to move around them.

Management Strategies: Consult reference material such as the UWR and FSP for detailed management strategies. Be aware of identified goat polygons in your area and any harvesting restrictions within the polygon. Contact BCTS upon discovery of potential goat habitat – take photos and provide an accurate location and

description.

Wolverine

Identification Largest member of the weasel family (80-130 cm long).Broad head, short neck, short legs, and large feet.Fur ranges from dark brown to sable with a light-coloured facial mask and throat patch.Two yellowish stripes extending from the shoulders to the rump.Fur is short on the head but lengthens along the body, ending in a bushy tail.

Field Identification:Semi-retractable claws curve inward; the heel pad on the front foot often imprints

resembling a thumb. Belly drag marks are evident in deep snow.Scat is dark in color, twisted at the ends, and long.Dens include the base of a hollow tree, snow tunnel, or boulder field.Excavated snow or dirt looking for buried kill.

Wolverine

Habitats:Preferred habitat is based on availability of prey, which include ungulates, small

mammals, ground dwelling birds, and different types of fruit. Large range from valley bottoms to alpine meadows.Dens are associated with coarse wood debris, rock piles, deep snow cover, avalanche

chutes, small-scale (<100 m wide) forest openings, all of which are within proximity to a sufficient food source.

Concerns:Road building associated with harvesting

activities may increase the potential for targeted and incidental trapping.

Loss of important habitat and prey through harvesting activities.

Sensitive to disturbance from motorized vehicles such as quads and snowmobiles;.

Direct mortality from increased traffic on roads.

Species Latin Forest District

COSEWIC BC CDC SARA

Northern Tightcoil

Pristiloma arcticum

DSS No Blue No

Black-footed Tightcoil

Pristiloma chersinella

Both No Blue No

Beaverpond Baskettail

Epitheca canis

Both No Blue No

Plains Forktail

Ischnura damula

DSS No Red No

Species Listings – Invertebrates

Snails

Identification: Northern Tightcoil (see top right and middle) - creamy-colored

shell with a pinkish sheen; shell is very glossy and smooth; up to 3.5 mm wide.

Black-footed Tightcoil (see bottom) - disc-shaped shell; color is yellow-brown, translucent and tightly coiled; up to 3.3 mm wide.

Field Identification: Northern Tightcoil - generally found on moist surfaces of green

or decaying vegetation, rocks or wood; usually grouped together.

Black-footed Tightcoil – found under rocks, dead wood, and moss, at elevations of 1100-1600 m, in forested types and openings;

Habitat: Northern Tightcoil – inhabit wetter areas, such as meadows,

seeps, bogs and wetland edges; known occurrences are in the Babines.

Black-footed Tightcoil – generally restricted to tree line (sub-alpine) or vegetated rockslides; known occurrences are in the Babines.

Concerns: Harvesting activities and associated road building can

potentially degrade their habitat by altering water patterns, decreasing water quality, spilling pollutants such as oils and soaps into riparian areas, removing the overstory which can dry out the forest floor.

Heavy machinery can potentially “chew up” microhabitats such as old logs, leaf litter, and rocks.

Dragonflies

Identification: Beaverpond Baskettail (top right) – eyes turn deep green with increasing age;

orange-yellow face with no T-spot on head; dark abdomen with pale spots on the sides; females fly with the end of the abdomen curled upwards (acts as a basket for carrying the eggs); 45 mm long.

Plains Forktail (bottom right) - male has blue sides and a black top with two pairs of pale dots; female is similiar to male but may have pale spots on top joined into stripes; abdomen tip is blue; 28 mm long.

Field Identification: Both species – long, gelatinous strands of eggs floating near the surface;

females generally congregate when laying eggs; presence of nymphs (see below – damselfly far left, dragonfly on the right) in the water; nymph phase can take up to four years to complete; flight period is early May to mid-August in northern BC.

Habitat: Beaverpond Baskettail - pond or sluggish stream rich with aquatic vegetation in

wooded areas; water bodies with floating plants such as water lilies are preferred.

Plains Forktail – typically found in warm springs both artificial and natural; non-heated lakes and ponds as well; known occurrence in the Kispiox.

Concerns: Road building can increase cattle activity which can destroy or

pollute valuable habitat. Water temperatures can increase considerably through overstory

removal. Streams can be diverted and the flow increased through poor

harvesting techniques. Increased siltation in streams due to culvert or bridge installation. Destruction of small ponds as a result of poor layout – Machine Free

Zone or harvesting boundary not established resulting in machine traffic.

Dragonflies

Species Latin District

COSEWIC BC CDC

Upswept moonwort Botrychium ascendens DSS No Red

Dainty moonwort Botrychium crenulatum DSS No Blue

Mountain moonwort Botrychium montanum DSS No Red

Back's sedge Carex backii Both No Blue

Montana Larkspur Delphinium bicolor ssp. bicolor

Both No Blue

Small-fruited willowherb

Epilobium leptocarpum DSS No Blue

Orange Touch-me-not

Impatiens aurella DSS No Blue

Purple oniongrass Melica spectabilis DND No Blue

Whitebark pine Pinus albicaulis Both Endangered (2010)

Blue

Species Listings – Plants

Moonworts

Identification: Type of fern; up to 20 cm tall; perennial with single, above-ground frond (leaf); the

frond is 10 cm tall, yellow-green, and divided into two segments which share a common stalk; the most sterile segment is once pinnatifid (divided) with up to six pairs of ascending, narrowly triangular pinnae which have deeply lacerate margins; bears grape-like sporangia (see top right and bottom left);

Field Identification: Elevation range is 640-1950 m; found with red baneberry, ladyfern, horsetail, false lily

of the valley, rattlesnake fern, little grapefern; often grows alongside other moonwort species; grows in surface gravel, moist decayed litter, and rocky soils.

Habitat/Range: Known to occur in the western portion of the Bulkley TSA;. old-growth cedar-hemlock forest where there is seepage present.

Back’s Sedge

Identification: Type of sedge; up to 40 cm tall; densely tufted grass-like plant from short, blackish

fibrous roots; leaf blades 2-4 per stem and deep-green coloration; the clusters of flowers and fruits are completely concealed by leaf-like structures (scales);

Field Identification: The whole plant seems somewhat flattened upon arrival; the best way to identify

this plant is to look for the leafy scales at the tips of the leaves.

Habitat/Range: prefers moist to mesic grasslands and open coniferous forests, including pine

plantations; also in open calcareous forests representing relatively sparse canopy or early successional stage; known occurrence in the SBS zone.

Montana Larkspur

Identification: Perennial herb from fibrous, many-branched roots; stems erect; 10-40 cm

tall; base often reddish; leaves mostly on lower stem and glabrous to minutely-hairy; dark blue or purple flower with white or pale-blue middle; leaves 3- to 4- times dissected into linear segments – the ultimate segments 3 to 19.

Field Identification: Toxic – known to cause livestock poisoning; very little information on this

species.

Habitat/Range: Well-drained, mesic to sub-mesic sites with rocky soils; grasslands and open,

coniferous forests with rocky soils are preferred; from mid to subalpine elevations.

Small-fruited Willowherb

Identification: Perennial herb from a taproot; stems erect or decumbent at base (sweeping);

5-30 cm tall; slender, simple or branched, often reddish; fleshy winter bublets at the base; leaves opposite, oblong or elliptic, finely toothed, hairy; flower is whitish to pink, 1-4 mm long, hairy, stigmas (receptive tip that receives pollen) are broadly shaped.

Field Identification: Prefers sandy soils among boulders in proximity to large drainages; drainages

provide moisture through mist and humidity.

Habitat/Range: Moist meadows and streambanks in the montane to alpine zones; known

occurrences in the CWH, ESSF and SBSwk2 zones; elevation range from 430-1600 m;

Orange Touch-Me-Not

Identification: Annual succulent herb; stems erect to acsending, often branched, glabrous, 0.5-

1.0 m tall; leaves alternate, egg-shaped to elliptic, coarsely saw-toothed, 2-8 cm long; flowers dark orange- or red- spotted or spotless, mostly 1-1.5 cm long, sepals pouched.

Field Identification: The capsules are “explosive” if squeezed, leading to their popular name.

Habitat/Range: Prefer moist, nutrient-rich soils; damp roadside ditches often used; fens,

riverbanks, and forest edges; known occurrences in the ICH zone.

Purple Oniongrass

Identification: Perennial grass from rhizomes, bulbous-based, the bulbs spaced at intervals of 1-3

cm along the rhizomes, remaining attached; stems erect; up to 110 cm tall.

Field Identification: The common name comes from the onion-like appearance of the corm

(underground stem that serves as a storage organ) at its root; inflorescence is a narrow series of spikelets which are green with evenly spaced purple bands.

Habitat/Range: Native to BC; elevation range is >1000 m; moist meadows and open forests; known

occurrence in the ICH and ESSF zones;

Whitebark Pine

Identification: Trees up to 25 m tall; DBH up to 150 cm diameter; trunk is generally twisted and

contorted with multiple forking often present; crown conic, becoming rounded to irregularly spreading; bark is pale grey, separating into thin plates as it ages; branches often persistent to the trunk base; needles occur in bundles of five, ranging in length from 3-9 cm and usually bluish-green; cones are egg-shaped to almost round, 4-7 cm long, dark purple when immature, and do not open up when dried out; scales on the cones are easily broken off; seeds are one centimeter long and wingless.

Field Identification: Often dwarfed and deformed as a result of exposure and extreme temperatures at

higher elevations; often dead or dying (stressed) as a result of White Pine Blister Rust; Grizzly bear are known to feed on whitebark pine seed caches.

Habitat/Range: Prefers well-drained sites in open coniferous stands; generally found on rockier sites which are unfavourable for other tree species.

Common Name Protection Category

BEC Zone

Amabilis fir-western red cedar/oak fern Blue CWHws2/04

Mountain alder/red-oiser dogwood/ lady fern Blue SBSdk/Fl02

Saskatoon/ slender wheatgrass Red ESSFmc, ESSFwv, ICHmc1, SBSdk/81, SBSmc2

Scrub birch/ water sedge Blue SBSdk/Wf02, SBSmc2/Wf02

Slender sage/ common hook moss Blue ICHmc1/Wf02, SBSdk/Wf05, SBSmc2/Wf05

Shore sedge-buckbean/hook-mosses Blue SBSdk/Wf08, SBSmc2/Wf08

Shore sedge-buckbean/peat moss Blue CWHws2/Wb13, ICHmc1/Wb13

Sitka sedge/ peat moss Red CWHws2/Wf51

Common spike-rush Herbaceous Vegetation Blue SBSdk/Wm04

Few flowered spike rush/hook moss Red ESSFmc/Wf09, SBSmc2/Wf09

Swamp horsetail-beaked sedge Blue SBSdk/Wm02, SBSdw3/Wm02

Narrow leaved cotton –grass shore sedge Blue ESSFmc/Wf13

Tamarack/low birch/bluejoint reedgrass-sedges/peat moss Red SBSdw3

Buckbean-slender sedge Blue SBSdk/Wf06

Hybrid white spruce/hardhack-prickly rose Blue SBSdw3/06

Black spruce/common horsetail/peat mosses Blue SBSdw3/Wb09, SBSmc2/Wb09

Black spruce/ creeping snowberry/ peat moss Blue SBSdk/09, SBSdk/Wb01

Black spruce/ buckbean/ peat moss Blue SBSmc2/Wb11

Sitka spruce/salmonberry wet submaritime 2 Blue CWHws2/07

Ecosystems at Risk

Common Name Protection Category

BEC Zone

Lodgepole pine/ kinnikinnick Red CWHws2/02

Lodgepole pine/few flowered sedge/peat moss Blue ESSFmc/Wb10, SBSmc2/Wb10

Lodgepole pine/common juniper/rough leaved ricegrass Blue SBSdk/02

Lodgepole pine-black spruce/red- stemmed feathermoss Blue SBSdw3/05

Sandbergs bluegrass-slender wheatgrass Red ESSFmc, SBSdk/82, SBSdw3, SBSmc2

(Balsam poplar, black cottonwood) -spruces/red-osier dogwood

Red SBSdk/08

Black cottonwood –subalpine fir/devils club Blue ICHmc1/Fm03

Black cottonwood – red alder/salmonberry Blue CWHws2/08

Douglas –fir/lodgepole pine/clad lichens Blue SBSdw3/02

Douglas –fir/red stemmed feathermos-step moss Blue SBSdk/04

Bebbs wilow /bluejoint reedgrass Blue SBSdk/Ws03

Drummonds willow/bluejoint reedgrass Blue SBSdk/Fl05, SBSdw3/Fl05

MacCalla’s willow/beaked sedge Blue SBSdk/Ws05

Scheuchzeria/ peat mosses Blue SBSdw3/Wb12, SBSmc2/Wb12

Hudson Bay clubrush/ rusty hook-moss Red SBSmc2/Wf10

Tufted clubrush/golden star-moss Blue SBSdk/Wf11

Western hemlock/ kinnikinnick/ clad lichens Blue ICHmc1/02

Western hemlock-lodgepole pine/red-stemmed feathermoss

Blue CWHws2/03

Ecosystems at Risk

Habitat Features Defined – Mineral Licks

Definition: Mineral Licks are used by ungulate species to compensate for mineral

deficiencies and imbalances; as well as potentially decreasing the influence of toxic plant compounds.

Often occur naturally, providing important nutrients such as sodium, calcium, iron, phosphorus and zinc, which are required for building bone and muscle.

are especially important during the spring months prior to the vegetation emerging.

Field Identification: There are two visually distinct types of licks: wet and dry. Wet licks are

usually associated with groundwater springs and develop into muddy clearings used mainly by moose. Dry licks are often associated with steep, well-drained slopes, and are used by mountain goats.

Numerous tracks in conjunction with well-defined trails converging at one spot are good indicators of a mineral lick.

Sometimes hunters/guides will illegally create mineral licks (baiting) to attract ungulate species to a particular spot. In this case, look for signs of human activity and report to your local ministry.

Habitat Features Defined – Cliffs

Cliffs: Cliffs can exist in several different forms, including shale, mud, or sand banks, rock

cliffs, outcrops, scree or talus slopes, and escarpment faces (extensive cliffs associated with large rivers).

Peregrine Falcon prefer near vertical terrain features (>30 m) that offer a view of the surrounding area (open landscapes preferred), contain favourable sites (ledges) for nesting and hunting, and are within 2 km of a riparian area that supports high concentrations of bird species.

Mountain Goat prefer south to west facing steep sites capable of shedding snow while providing escape routes (30-60 degree slopes that are inaccessible to predators) and sufficient foraging opportunities.

Field Identification: Upon discovery of a significant cliff feature, look for Falcon nests or small

caves/ledges embedded in the cliff face that may serve as nesting areas. Pay close attention to steep slopes overlooking large drainages or wetlands, in particular the area immediately underneath the slope break.

Look for signs of goat activity, including mineral licks, excavated snow down to forest floor, and well-defined trails leading to cliff areas.

Habitat Features Defined – Riparian Areas

Riparian Areas: Include ditches, streams, lakes, and wetlands and the area immediately adjacent to

each feature. Support a unique mixture of vegetation, from trees to shrubs to emergent and

herbaceous plants; this vegetation directly influences and maintains the integrity of streams by stabilizing streambanks and channels, maintaining cool water temperatures through shade, providing shelter and food for fish, and recruiting LWD to aid in the creation of side-pools for spawning.

Certain vegetative species specific to riparian areas provide valuable browsing/foraging opportunities.

Field Identification: Streams and drainages (NCDs) are based on the definitions found in Sections 47-49

of FRPA. Cutthroat and Bull Trout streams are often identified through electro-shocking

(funded by BCTS). Careful observation is required to determine whether a Species at Risk is using the

riparian area - look for well-defined trails, wide-spread browsing of vegetation, numerous occurrences of rub trees, wildlife trees, ground nests, and stream morphology (pools and LWD consistent).

For Tailed Frog, non-fish-bearing (S5 and S6) streams occurring in the Copper FDU should be carefully assessed for water temperature, constant water flow, frequent side-pools, and gravelly beds.

Habitat Features Defined – Dens

Dens: Grizzly Bear prefer high-elevation sites that remain frozen during the

winter, have sufficient vegetation for stabilizing the roof of the den, and accumulate enough snow for insulation; seral stands (plantations) are also utilized but at a lower frequency rate.

Fisher depend on moisture-rich over-mature forests that provide large diameter, declining trees (heart rot present), specifically cottonwood and aspen; large trees produce sufficient (large enough) cavities, broken tops, shallow roots (for tunneling), and leaf and stick nests.

Wolverine depend on older forests (age class 6 and 7); dens are often associated with small-scale openings (<1 ha) in the ESSF that result in windthrow.

Field Identification: In general, for all species, look for well-defined trails leading back to

a potential den. For grizzly bear, look for excavated sites on steep, north-facing

slopes occurring in the sub-alpine; in plantations, look for hollow deciduous stems or under large stumps; naturally-occurring caves at higher elevations are also used.

For fisher, look for >50cm DBH Act and At that have some form of damage to the bole (entrance point), including frost cracks, fire scars, and large branches pulling away from the bole; the preferred entrance point is typically 5-10cm wide and 7-15cm tall, which prevents predators from entering.

For Wolverine, look for snow tunnels under fallen trees or boulders (provide structure) where the snow is deep and soft; snow >1m deep that is distributed uniformly or has accumulated in wind-drifts provides protection from cold temperatures.

Habitat Features Defined – Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds

Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds: Wetlands contain soils that are water-saturated for a sufficient length of time,

resulting in such that the excess water and resulting low soil-oxygen levels are principal determinants of vegetation and soil development; exist in several different forms including bogs, fens, marshes, swamps, shallow waters, and sites associated with flooding.

Lakes and ponds are generally obvious in the field, characterized by standing water.

Field Identification: Use LMH 52, “Wetlands of British Columbia, A Guide to Identification” found at

http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfd/pubs/Docs/Lmh/Lmh52.pdf as a reference guide. Use the “Forest Practices Code Wetland Indicator List” found at

http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hre/becweb/Downloads/Downloads_Wetlands/Wetland%20Indicators.pdf as a reference guide.

From a layout perspective, when a particular site is believed to be a type of wetland or transitional to a wetland, take the time to look for indicator plants as well as checking the soil and estimating the crown closure/density – open forests with hummocky, moist ground that are capable of supporting hydrophytic plants are good indicators of transitional sites.

Habitat Features Defined – Wildlife Trees and Nests

Wildlife Trees and Nests: Any standing dead or live tree with special characteristics that provide valuable

habitat for the conservation or enhancement of wildlife; significant indicators of wildlife tree quality generally include height and age, decay stage, and location.

Important nests in terms of Species at Risk include large stick nests (Goshawk, Great Blue Heron, Swaison’s Hawk), ground nests that are associated with riparian areas (American Bittern) and clearcuts/disturbed areas supporting an adequate supply of CWD (Short-Eared Owl).

Field Identification: Look for From a layout perspective, when an existing or potential wildlife tree or

established nest is identified, be sure to provide the location and description of the surrounding timber type to the BCTS representative to allow for subsequent management decisions – photos would also be helpful.

Mineral Licks

Upon discovery of a mineral lick, the feature and associated trail/s should be accurately GPSed to allow for appropriate planning prior to the final layout phase; consulting a local expert is recommended in determining the extent of the buffer zone.

Consider establishing a Wildlife Tree Retention Area (WTRA) to encompass the entirety of the lick and associated access trails; if protecting the trails is not feasible through WTRA establishment, use MFZ or SMZ to limit the amount of timber removed (maintain screening); each WTRA should be at least 2 hectares in size and possibly larger depending on the stand structure (depends on amount of screening available).

Avoid crossing associated access trails with roads or skid trails; if crossing the trail is unavoidable, consider managing the road to restrict traffic.

For “wet” licks, locate (GPS) the hydrological system feeding the feature and protect through WTRA establishment or RRZ/MFZ establishment; avoid crossing this feature with roads or skids trails.

Reduce the line-of-site to a mineral lick by maintaining roadside screening or adding curves in roads where possible.

If a mineral lick is created by road/trail building activities, the feature should be destroyed upon completion of the road building activity to prevent ungulates from being injured or killed by traffic.

For Moose, “Considerations for Natural Mineral Licks Used By Moose in Land Use Planning and Development, 2004” at http://web.unbc.ca/~reav/pdfs/rea_2004_mineral_licks_in_planning_development.pdf for guidance.

For Mountain Goat, “Management Plan for the Mountain Goat in British Columbia, May 2010” at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/recovery/management_plans/MtGoat_MP_Final_28May2010.pdf for guidance.

SPECIES: Moose, Mountain Goat

Best Management Practices-Habitat Features

Best Management Practices-Habitat Features

Cliffs

In general, where harvesting operations are in close proximity to a significant cliff, consult a qualified professional to inventory the feature for mountain goat or peregrine falcon indicators.

For mountain goat, connectivity of adequate forest cover between important habitats such as mineral licks, rearing areas, escape terrain, and travel corridors, is recommended.

For mountain goat, consider prohibiting machines from operating within 500m of identified habitat during the period of 1 Nov. –15 July, which includes the overwintering and kidding/early rearing phase of their life cycle.

When harvesting activity is required within 500 m of mountain goat habitat, all roads should be temporary in design. Roads should be strategically located to facilitate effective removal wherever possible. Where roads have to remain in place for an extended period of time, access control measures should be considered.

For Peregrine Falcon, leave CWD near the bottom of cliffs to promote availability of prey, such as small mammals and reptiles; consider leaving slash piles to promote small mammal habitat.

Use a qualified professional to inventory cliffs for rare plant communities if proposed harvest activities have the potential to harm them.

Consult “Management Plan for the Mountain Goat in British Columbia, May 2010” for reference: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/recovery/management_plans/MtGoat_MP_Final_28May2010.pdf

SPECIES: Peregrine Falcon, Mountain Goat

Riparian Areas

Use the “Fish-stream Crossing Guidebook, September 2012” @ http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/Hfp/fish/Fish-stream%20Crossing%20Web.pdf and the Forest and Range Evaluation Program (FREP) website @ http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfp/frep/values/fish.htm#links for guidance.

In general, maximize connectivity of riparian habitats where any of these species are identified, which includes increasing retention on S5 and S6 streams to maintain water quality and flow characteristics.

Consider following the BMPs identified in the recently released (2013) “ADM Recommendations for Improved Practices Outcomes”, which recommends “establishing wind-firm buffers 10 m wide on either side of all identified Bull Trout and Cutthroat Trout streams and perennial non-fish-bearing class S5s and S6s that deliver water, alluvial sediments, nutrients, organic materials, and invertebrates to identified streams”.

Ensure adequate Large Woody Debris (LWD) recruitment by protecting and maintaining upslope sources of LWD which may be associated with non-fish-bearing streams (S5, S6); therefore, establishing a 10 m wide RRZ on either side of non-fish-bearing class S5s and S6s that are directly connected to identified Bull Trout and Cutthroat Trout streams.

Consider feathering the stand immediately adjacent to the RRZ to increase the wind-firmness of the timber within the RRZ; utilize FS 712 to determine the windthrow capability of a stand.

Consider carrying out a detailed inventory by a qualified expert on all suspected Tailed Frog streams within the Copper Forest Development Unit (Tailed Frog is known to occur in this area).

For identified Tailed Frog streams, consider establishing a 30 m RRZ buffered by a 20 m Riparian Management Zone (RMZ); retain, at minimum, 70% basal area within the RMZ with 70% of all original diameter classes represented. (as per section 7 (2) – FRPA).

Best Management Practices-Habitat Features

Riparian Areas

Avoid building roads within 50 m of known Tailed Frog habitat; when stream crossings are determined to be necessary, use temporary clear span bridges and avoid crossing at upper reaches of the stream; as well, avoid skidding wood across identified streams.

Contractors should identify all pre-FPC culverts for possible replacement - convey this item to the BCTS representative.

Establish OGMA’s or Wildlife Tree Retention Areas to encompass identified streams that support any of these species.

SPECIES: Bull Trout, Cutthroat Trout, Coastal Tailed Frog, MOOSE, GRIZZLY BEAR.

Best Management Practices-Habitat Features

Dens

Determine, with the help of a qualified professional , the type of animal using the den and when the discovered den was last used.

Consider establishing a WTRA to encompass the den/s; if establishing a WTRA is not feasible, establish an appropriately sized buffer zone based on advice from a qualified professional and any legislative documentation.

Deactivate all roads within 500 m of a active bear den where possible.

Avoid conducting operations within 500 m of an occupied den.

For fisher, retain large diameter (>50cm DBH) live (but declining) trees showing signs of heart rot (conks or broken top present) where operationally feasible; cottonwood is the preferred species in the SBS but suitable aspen or spruce are also utilized, especially in riparian areas.

SPECIES: Bears, Wolverine, Fisher.

Best Management Practices-Habitat Features

Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds

Identify significant ponds that may be disturbed or adversely altered by harvesting activities – provide the location of the pond to allow for subsequent actions.

Consider increasing the RRZ on W3 wetlands to a minimum of 10 meters – to protect nests and CWD.

Avoid altering natural drainage patterns around wetlands, lakes and ponds by establishing designated skid crossings on all drainages that flow into either feature.

Avoid building permanent access structures within 50 m of the feature; if unavoidable, consider other management options to restrict traffic.

Maintain the integrity of each feature by orientating the WTRA or reserve zone so the riparian feature feeding or draining the feature is protected.

When operationally feasible, retain CWD, non-merchantable conifers, snags, and deciduous stems immediately adjacent to significant ponds through RRZ or MFZ establishment.

SPECIES: Western Toad, Grizzly Bear, Moose, American Bittern, Northern Tightcoil, Black-footed Tightcoil, Beaverpond Baskettail, Plains Forktail.

Best Management Practices-Habitat Features

Wildlife Trees and Nests

Identify potential and existing wildlife trees through appropriate ribboning of each tree (as per marking standards identified in the contract) and collection of accurate UTM coordinates for mapping purposes and subsequent management strategies.

Retain high value wildlife trees; concentrated groups of wildlife trees should be, if possible, protected through WTRA establishment.

Preserve all trees with either a Bald Eagle, Osprey or Blue Herron nest - they are protected by legislation.

For Goshawk, consult the 2012 document, “A Scientific Basis for Managing Northern Goshawk Breeding Areas in the Interior of British Columbia: Best Management Practices”, created by Forrex and FIA.

Avoid industrial activity or use “no-work zones” within 2 km of Peregrine Falcon nests between March 15 and July 1st which is the sensitive portion of the breeding season.

Consult the following websites for information on Wildlife Tree identification, recruitment, and management objectives: “The Wildlife Tree Committee of British Columbia” found at http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfp/values/wildlife/WLT/index.htm, and “Stand Level Biodiversity Website” found at http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hfp/training/00001/index.htm

Species: American Bittern, Great Blue Heron, Northern Goshawk, Short-eared Owl, Swainson’s Hawk.

Best Management Practices-Habitat Features

Forested

Refer to species that are managed at the landscape-level, requiring the utilization of identified polygons.

Forests are managed at the landscape level for habitat protection of species at Risk, through OGMA’s , LRMP,s SFMP,s by monitoring ecosystem diversity indicators.

Forests and species can be managed by maintaining an old, mature or early seral stage condition.

These species benefit from identifying and maintaining important travel corridors (eg, adequate forest cover connecting important habitat for mountain goat), connectivity, use of early forest (20-40 years old) during the summer months (thermal cover), and mature forest during the winter months and to a lesser degree during winter, which may be related to snow level. Mature forest is used for travel corridors,

SPECIES: Wolverine, Moose, Grizzly Bear, Mountain Goat, Caribou, Short-eared owl

Best Management Practices-Habitat Features

Best Management Practices-Habitat Features