Best management practices for forested wetlands in Georgia / Georgia Forestry Association, Wetlands Committee

Best Management Practices
For Forested Wetlands In Georgia

Georgia Forestry Association Wetlands Committee

RECEIVED
2 DEC. 1 1994
DOCUMENTS
Revised April, 1993

Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2013
http://archive.org/details/bestmanagementprOOgeor

TABLE OF CONTENTS

............. Acknowledgements

Page
I.

Introduction

1.

Technical Criteria For Jurisdictional Identification

2.

Identification of Forested Wetlands by Physiographic Class .
.... Floodplains, Terraces and Bottomlands
..... Black River Bottoms ..... Red River Bottoms
...... Branch Bottoms
............. Muck Swamps

3. 3. 3. 3. 4. 4.

Wet Flats

5.

Pine Hammock and Pine Savannahs
........... Pocosins.

5. 5.

Carolina Bays

6.

.... Cypress Strands and Cypress Stringers
Peat Swamps and Cypress Domes

6. 7.

& Gulf Coves, Lower Slopes Adjacent to Streams Piedmont Bottomlands
...... Multiple Use Guidelines
..... Streamside Management Zones
.... Wetland Access Systems
........... Harvesting Wetland Sites

7. 9. 11. 15. 18.

Regenerating Wetland Forests

21.

Summary of Recommended BMPs For Forested Wetlands
.............. Appendix

24. 25.

References

26.

Acknowledgements
These Wetlands BMPs were developed by the Georgia Forestry Association's Wetlands Committee during 1988-89. Comments were solicited from the Georgia Forestry Commission, other State
Forestry Commissions, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Environmental Protection Division, University of
Georgia School of Forest Resources, Georgia Forestry Association, other State Forestry Associations,
The Georgia Conservancy, National Council of the Paper Industry For Air and Stream Improvement, Georgia Farm Bureau Federation, Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission, Rockdale County Soil and Water Conservation District, and Dr. James Kundell, Science advisor to the Georgia
General Assembly.
The committee thanks the many people and organizaitons who commented on and contributed to the numerous drafts of this handbook.
THE PUBLICATION OF THIS DOCUMENT WAS SUPPORTED BY THE GEORGIA ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DIVISION AND WAS FINANCED IN PART THROUGH A GRANT FROM THE U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY. , UNDER PROVISIONS OF SECTION 205J OF THE FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ACT, AS AMMENDED.

FORESTED WETLANDS BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPs)
INTRODUCTION
Georgia's forests provide a tremendous variety of goods and services for the people of the state and region. If properly managed, using good conservation practices and techniques; these forests can provide continued and improved benefits, even with the pressures of increased population and urbanization.
Wetlands have been recognized as one of the nation's important resources. Wetlands are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Georgia's
forested wetlands are an important component of the state's forests. The Smith's Fourth Forest Report identifies 3.5 million acres of bottomland hardwood in Georgia. In addition, portions of several other forest types are classified as wetlands. These wetlands have many functions and values, among which are: water quality, timber production, fish
and wildlife habitat, scenic beauty, recreation, education and research.
The original Recommended BMPs for Forestry in Georgia were prepared to inform loggers, foresters, landowners,
and others involved in forestry about simple, practical methods to minimize erosion from forest operations. These practices are economical and effective measures for ensuring forestry's contribution to a high standard of water quality in Georgia.
The use of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for forest road construction and maintenance is mandated by federal legislation to qualify for the silvicultural exemption from the permit process provided for in the 1972 Water Pollution Control Act and Clean Water Act Amendments of 1977. and 1987. Federal legislation's basic goal is to protect and
enhance the quality of the nation's waters so they are fishable and swimmable. The use of BMPs enables these goals
to be met on waters influenced by forest lands.
These Best Management Practices have been developed by a task force representing a wide range of interests in forested
wetlands. Properly and carefully implemented. BMPs will protect and enhance important wetlands functions on most
sites under most weather conditions while allowing economic silvicultural operations. Some wetlands sites are not suitable for commercial timber production. On extremely sensitive sites or in extremely severe weather conditions, more
stringent measures may be required. These BMPs are designed and intended for silvicultural operations where
sustained timber production is one of the landowner's objectives. Normal silvicultural activities such as plowing, the placement of soil bedding for seed or seedlings, minor drainage and harvesting as a part of established silvicultural
operations are exempt from Section 404. Permit Requirements. 40 CFR Section 232. Discharge of fill materials into
waters of the United States from ditching, or other activities whose purpose is to convert forested wetlands to some other use (i.e.. silviculture to agriculture or real estate), where the flow or circulation of the waters may be impaired or the reach reduced; is not permitted under the silvicultural exemptions of the Clean Water Act.
Landowners intending a land use change such as to agricultural production or real estate development should consult
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE). the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the USDA Soil
Conservation Service (SCS). Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD). and/or local authorities prior to
initiating operations. Most of these operations may require general or individual permits.
Forestry representatives must implement the use of BMPs. It is the forester's duty to plan, and properly supervise operations so water quality is not compromised. Violation of the standards will invite government intervention and the imposition of mandatory BMPs. permits, fines, and other constraints.
These forested wetlands BMPs should be used in conjunction with the "Recommended Best Management Practices
for Forestry in Georgia". This publication is available from the Georgia Forestry Commission.

Technical Criteria for Jurisdictional Identification.

The legal definition of wetlands, as enacted by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and unanimously adopted by the EPA. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Soil Conservation Sen ice. and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Sen ice is "Those
areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency or duration sufficient to support and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar
areas."

The methodology used for identifying and delineating jurisdictional wetlands is found in the 1987 U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual . Technical Report Y-87-1. Wetlands possess three essential characteristics: (1) hydrophytic vegetation, (2) hydric soils, and (3) wetland hydrology. All three must be present under normal circumstances for an area to be identified as a wetland. Each characteristic is described in the following text.

Hydrophytic Vegetation. Defined as macrophytic plant life growing in water, soil or on a substrate that is at least
periodically deficient in oxygen as a result of excessive water content. A national interagency panel has developed
a "National List of Plant Species That Occur in Wetlands" which has been subdivided into a regional list. The list separates vascular plants into five basic groups commonly called "wetland indicator status" based on a plant species" frequency of occurrence in wetlands. They are (1) obligate wetland. (2) facultative wetland. (3) facultative. (4)
facultative upland, and (5) obligate upland. An area has met the hydric vegetation criteria when, under normal
circumstances, more than 50 percent of the composition of the dominant species from all strata (trees, shnibs. grasses) are obligate wetland (OBL), facultative wetland (FACW). and/or facultative (FAC) species.

Examples of trees for each indication group are:

OBL
FACW
FAC FACU

- bald cypress, overcup oak, water tupelo
- slash pine, sweet bay, green ash. swamp chestnut oak. willow oak. sugarberry
- loblolly pine, black gum, sweetgum. red maple, yellow poplar - white oak. longleaf pine, southern red oak

Hydric Soils. Defined as soils that are saturated at least 15 consecutive days or inundated at least 7 consecutive days during the growing season in most years. The National Technical Committee or Hydric Soils (NTCHS) has developed a list of the nation's hydric soils which has been subdivided into a state list based on the physical
characteristics of organic and mineral soils. Local lists have been compiled and are available from county SCS
offices.

Wetland Hydrology. Defined as areas which are seasonally inundated and/or saturated to the soil surface for a consecutive number of days and/or more than 12.5 percent of the growing season. Indicators may include, but are not limited to drainage patterns, drift lines, sediment deposition, watermarks, stream gauge data and flood predictions, historic records, visual observation of saturated soils and visual observation of inundation. Areas wet between 5 percent and 12.5 percent of the growing season may or may not be wetlands. Areas saturated to the surface for less than 5 percent of the growing season are non-wetlands.

Note: For the purpose of better defining hydric soils and wetland hydrology, the growing season is usually the

period between the last freezing temperature in the spring and the first freezing temperature in the fall. Most SCS

county soil surveys contain tables showing when these dates occur (usually in table 2 or 3 of modern surveys). In

COE i Georgia the

Savannah District uses the 28 degree Fahrenheit or lower temperature threshold at the frequency

of "5 years in 10 probability. Therefore the growing season for Camden Count) is between February 2 and

December 22.

Landowners with questions concerning delineation or application of specific silvicultural practices should
contact:

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
USD A Soil Conservation Sen ice
Georgia Forestry Commission
UGA Cooperative Extension Service
Georgia Forestry Association

1-800-448-2402 1-404-347-4015 1-706-546-21 15
1-800-GA-TREES
1-706-542-3447 1-404-416-7621

IDENTIFICATION OF FORESTED WETLANDS
BY PHYSIOGRAPHIC CLASS
Forested wetlands occur in all three major physiographic regions of Georgia (Mountains, Piedmont, and Coastal Plain). Both large and small areas of wetlands are found in streambeds, low-lying level to concave stream terraces, and flood plains of these regions. Because wetland characteristics such as vegetation, soil, and hydrology differ within the same region, different wetland types are recognized and described in this publication. The Forested Wetlands identified in this document are not necessarily classified as jurisdictional wetlands as defined and regulated under the Clean Water Act. However, the wetlands types described here encompass certain soil, site conditions, and timber types in which jurisdictional wetlands are likely to be found (see page 2).
FlOOdplaipS, Terraces And Bottomland - flat areas bordering major and minor water courses. Formed by
deposits in times of flooding.
Black River Bottoms.
Ground Line Water Table

Flood plains of major river systems generally originating in the Coastal Plain. Characterized by sandy sediments and slow movement of surface water. The floodplains of the streams are on a modest scale and have not developed a clean division of natural levees, backswamps, sloughs, and terraces.
Hydrology and Soils. Significant ground-water movement occurs throughout the year. The flood plain is inundated during the spring season in the North and sometimes during the summer season in the South. The frequency of flooding is associated with storm events.
Soils are usually poorly drained with very poorly drained soils in sloughs and oxbows.
Common soil series are: Bibb, Levy, Nawney, Bladen, Rains, and Meggett.
Vegetation. Forest tree species include bald cypress, blackgum, water tupelo, green ash, sweetgum, water hickory, water oaks, and red maple. Loblolly, slash, spruce and pond
pines are common. In the southernmost areas cabbage palm is prevalent.
Red River Bottoms.

'V^v-VW^V1*

Ground Line Water Table

Flood plains of major river systems originating in the Piedmont or Mountains. Characterized by sandy and silty sediments. Sloughs and oxbow swamps are commonly interspersed and if large enough may be classified separately as muck swamps. Levees of the river bottom and first terraces are somewhat higher but flood periodically from seasonal rains. Second terraces nearest to the uplands flood infrequently.
Hydrology and Soils. Significant ground-water movement occurs throughout the year. The
floodplain is characterized by turbid sediment bearing water flowing in well-defined channels and sloughs with overland flow occurring periodically. The duration of flooding is seasonal and

typically during the winter and early spring or after main storm events. Soils are well drained
to very poorly drained. Common soil series in the oxbow and sloughs are: Chastian and
Wehadkee. First terraces are dominated by: Congaree, Tawcaw, Chewacla, Wehadkee, and Roanoke. Chewacla, Congaree and Riverview are found on second terraces. Vegetation. Forest tree species in the oxbows and sloughs include bald and pond cypress, blackgum and water tupelo. Water hickory, laurel oaks, willow oaks, red maple, cottonwood, ash, riverbirch, spruce pine and pond pine are found in the first terrace. The second terraces are dominated by ash, red maple, sweetgum, water oak, hickory, sycamore, yellow poplar, loblolly and slash pines.
Branch Bottoms.
Ground Line Water Table
Relatively flat, alluvial land located near the headwaters and in floodplains of minor drainages. They are dominated by constant seepage of spring-fed water with minor flooding during the wet seasons.
Hydrology and Soils. Surface water flows year round in well defined channels except during extremely dry periods. Channels are fed by significant groundwater movement and seepage and
are subject to minor overflow after main storm events. Soils are poorly to very poorly drained.
Common soil types are Bibb, Surrency, Bladen, Pelham and Rutledge. Vegetation. Forest tree species include black gum and cypress near the channels, sweetgum,
water oak, sycamore, red maple, yellow poplar, ash and loblolly pine. In the southern most areas slash pine and cabbage palms are common.
Muck Swamps.

Water Table

Ground Line

Large areas adjoining drainages near the coast and large sloughs and oxbow depressions of major river floodplains. Muck swamps are usually found at the lowest elevations and are characterized by slow moving to st-
anding water.
Hydrology and Soils. Semi-permanently to seasonally flooded through a combination of
precipitation and overland flow. These sites are usually inundated year-round. Soils are poorly
to very poorly drained. Common soils are: Muckalee, Johnston, Satilla, Chastain and Rutledge.
Vegetation. Forest tree species are dominated by bald and pond cypress, water tupelo and black gum. Swamps associated with redwater rivers are dominated by water tupelo and bald cypress Those associated with blackwater rivers are dominated by blackgum and both cypress species. The more stagnant the water the more likely that pond cypress and blackgum will dominate.

WGt Flats - expanses of shallow or low-lying land located between well defined natural drainage systems. Wet flats
are inundated or saturated for varying periods of time during the growing season.
Pine Hammocks & Pine Savannas.
Low Hammock
Ground Line Water Table
Broad interstream flats generally underlain by clays where drainage systems are poorly developed. Sites are
characterized by weak overland flow and constant seepage. Commonly found in the flatwoods of the Coastal
Plain.
Hydrology and Soils. Seasonably saturated by high or perched water tables from precipitation. Standing water and shallow overland sheet flow are common during the wet seasons. Soils are somewhat poorly to very poorly drained. Common soils are: Leon, Pelham, Bladen, Meggett, Wahee and Ocilla. Vegetation. Forest tree species include open canopies of longleaf pine with laurel oak, some loblolly, slash and pond pines. The wetter portions are dominated by sweetgum, willow oak,
red maple, loblolly pine and cypress.
Pocosins.
Water Table
Broad shrub bogs with elevated centers where drainage is restricted due to elevated rims, sluggish outlets and impermeable soils located in the northern portion of the lower Coastal Plain. Pocosins consist of organic soils which accumulate due to the poor drainage. Pocosins are characterized by continuous wetness.
Hydrology and Soils. Pocosins are saturated for most of the year by high or perched water tables from precipitation. Standing water is common during the wet season. Soils in the center
are very poorly drained grading to poorly drained at the edges. Pocosin soils include: Ponzer,
Belhaven, Pungo and Pamlico. Vegetation. Vegetation is dominated by pond pine and evergreen shrubs. Forest tree species
common to pocosins include pond pine, cypress, Atlantic white cedar with scattered sweetgum, willow oak and red maple. Dense understories are of titi, red bay, sweet bay, loblolly bay, wax myrtle, sweet gallberry and blueberry are common.

Carolina Bays.
SE
NW
JbjAiagJUlUUag
Water Table
Geomorphologically distinct, elliptical depressions with either saturated organic or mineral soils located in the middle and lower Coastal Plain, primarily in North Carolina. Carolina Bays usually have a northwesternsoutheastern orientation and a sandy rim on the southeastern side. Carolina bays are characterized by poor surface drainage and restricted outflow.
Hydrology and Soils. Seasonally saturated by water tables from precipitation. Standing water and weak overland flow are common during the wet season. Most soils are poorly to very poorly drained, however, soils formed on the sandy rims are well drained. Common, poorly drained
mineral soils are: Coxville, Rutledge, and Rains; mineral soils on the sandy rim are Norfolk,
Lakeland and Kureb; common organic soils are Kingsland, Croatan and Pamlico. Vegetation. Vegetation varies from herbaceous marshes to evergreen shrubs to swamp forests.
Forests are dominated by a combination of red, sweet and loblolly bay. Pond pine, loblolly, red maple, blackgum and yellow poplar are sometimes present. Dense understories of titi, fetterbush and gallberry are common.
Cypress Strands - Cypress Stringer.

"u ili-JJ

1

ff \ Ground Line Water Table

Elongated or linear depressions in the flatwoods landscape following subsurface clay and limerock topography characterized by drainage through multiple braided channels or sheetflow into the blackwater rivers. Cypress stringers are narrow strands and occur frequently.
Hydrology and Soils. Semi-permanently to permanently flooded during the growing season with surface water usually flowing in braided channels. The organic rich soil grades into a sandy humus rich hardpan underlain by gleyed and somewhat mottled sandy soil over limerock. The soil drainage class is very poorly drained. Common soils are: Ellabelle, Surrency, Rutledge, Bayboro, and Cape Fear.
Vegetation. The forest vegetation is dominated by bald cypress interspersed with sweetbay and
red bay, swamp black gum and sometimes cabbage palm.

Peat Swamps, Cypress Domes
Peat Swamp

Cypress Domes

Ground line Water Table

Ground line Water Table
Upland flats and shallow organic depressions occurring in the lower Coastal Plain located in broad interstream areas from which blackwater rivers and branch bottoms originate. Sites are characterized by standing water and constant seepage. Cypress domes are generally much smaller than peat swamps and are dominated by cypress and black gum.
Hydrology and Soils. Seasonally saturated by high or perched water table from storm precipitation. Standing water is common with very slow surface flow to an outlet occurring during the wet season. Soils are poorly to very poorly drained. Common soils are: Belhaven,
Pungo, Kingsland, Surrency, Ellabelle and Emory.
Vegetation. Forest tree species include bald and pond cypress, loblolly, slash and pond pine, blackgum and red maple. Understory vegetation includes sweet bay, red bay, fetter-bush,
blueberry, titi, and greenbriar. Cypress domes are predominantly cypress and black gum with
little understory in the interior.
Gulfs, Coves, Lower Slopes Adjacent to Streams and Piedmont Bottomlands.

Ground Line
Water Table Bed Rock

Piedmont Bottomlands

tffffW+fy*

Ground Line Water Table

Non-eroded fertile mineral upland flats, side slopes and stream bottoms located in the Piedmont and Mountains. Sites are characterized by poor internal drainage and lateral water movement.

Hydrology and Soils. Water input by overland flow, precipitation and seepage. Sites may be seasonally or intermittently flooded or saturated. Soils are well to poorly drained. Common soils
are: Enon, Iredell, Chastain, Roanoke, Chewacla and Congaree.
Vegetation. Forest tree species include river birch, box elder, sweetgum, sycamore, ash, northern red oak, water and willow oak, loblolly pine, black cherry, red maple, black gum, and black walnut.

MULTIPLE USE GUIDELINES

A key aspect of proper management of the forested wetland ecosystem is the minimization of site impacts associated
with silvicultural practices including timber harvesting. These impacts are not limited to the physical site but include
other values inherent to the wetland environment. Forest managers operate within the social and political environment as well as the biological!

In addition to timber production, management strategies should include provisions for other benefits from forested
wetlands. Good forest wetlands management practices and multiple-use are not mutually exclusive. Within
the framework of these guidelines it is possible to carryout harvesting and regeneration practices, provide for recreation, wildlife habitat, and maintain the primary hydrological functions of wetlands as natural filters and
reservoirs of clean water. Some sites may, by their characteristics accommodate more uses than others.

Much attention has been paid to the "multiple-use" concept. Nature is a multiple-use concept practitioner. Wetlands
perform multiple functions for multiple "users". Wetlands provide habitat for numerous species of flora and fauna, maintain the local hydrologic balance and recharge groundwater, and provide an "outdoor classroom" for education and research. Intelligent, judicious use of the wetland resource can successfully involve multiple uses and maintain a healthy balance. The key to success is an understanding of the wetland ecosystem and a stewardship approach for its management.

Suggested Best Management Practices are intended to protect, maintain, and improve the various wetland "functions" and potential uses. Each of the potential multiple uses of wetlands should be examined individually:

Timber Production - Irregular shaped or patch clearcuts provide increased "edge effect" habitat for wildlife species.
Refer to the specific BMPs for harvest, regeneration, road building, etc.

Hydrologic Functions - Forested wetlands help dissipate flood waters and improve water quality by filtration and sediment trapping. See the separate discussion of streamside management zones for further information.

BMP Fisheries - Follow

guidelines for timber-related activities to protect surface waters from turbidity, siltation,

temperature changes, pollution/contamination from fuels, lubricants, herbicides, pesticides or other substances.

Wildlife - Most wildlife management techniques are acceptable on wetlands sites. These include establishment of food plots, cover and nesting areas for game and non-game species as well as maintaining mast producing trees. Some timber harvesting practices improve habitat for numerous wildlife species. For more information refer to Cooperative Extension Service Publication "Selective Practices and Plantings for Wildlife", 1987.

Grazing - Livestock grazing is not recommended on most forest wetlands because of soil compaction, water pollution and destruction of regeneration and wildlife habitat.

Aesthetics - Many people base their opinions on what they see. Minimize the visual impact of silvicultural practices when and wherever feasible. For example, moderate- size clearcuts, streamside and roadside management, buffer
zones, and other responsible management practices help minimize adverse public reaction.

Recreation - Hunting, fishing, boating, hiking, camping, birdwatching, photography, etc. are valuable activities which can be successfully coordinated with silvicultural management strategies. All uses should be conducted to minimize impacts to the wetlands ecosystem.

Education and Research - Well managed forested wetlands serve as examples of how sound silvicultural practices minimize damage and can, in fact, enhance the wetland environment. All BMPs are recommended with this in mind.

Forested wetlands, especially bottomland hardwoods, are very productive ecosystems with multiple functions and values. It is not possible for any policy to maximize each multiple use. These guidelines, suggestions, and recommendations are intended to address multiple-use issues and provide a balance that best combines various uses. With proper management, wetlands can be used for commercial timber production without compromising environmental
quality. It is imperative that the forestry community comply with both the letter and spirit of all existing regulations in implementing Best Management Practices.
10

STREAMSIDE MANAGEMENT ZONES

Introduction
Forestry BMPs are designed to protect water quality from road construction, timber harvesting, site preparation, and
other silvicultural practices that may cause non-point source pollution. In addition to the protection provided by BMPs, Streamside management zones (SMZs) are areas adjacent to flowing or standing water which require more specific or more stringent management considerations to protect water resources. Management practices are recommended for both primary and secondary SMZs (Figure 1).
SMZs may have beneficial impacts such as regulating stream temperatures, ameliorating upslope discharges of
pollutants and water to adjacent watercourses, and serving as a buffer or screen to minimize the visual impact of
silvicultural activities. The exact role that SMZs play is, however, not readily predictable due to each site's unique physical and biological characteristics and how they are integrated with the adjacent watercourse characteristics.
Definition of Wetland SMZs

Streamside management zones are land areas adjacent to natural perennial streams and natural lakes, ponds, and other standing water that require specific management considerations to provide the water and streambank with special protection from land-use activities. These zones may be partly or completely in jurisdictional wetlands.

Perennial streams are defined as flowing throughout the year (except during extremely dry periods) in well-defined channels, and should be quite obvious. Intermittent and ephemeral streams are characterized as having seasonally
flowing water. These streams may be more difficult to recognize, but can be protected with existing forestry BMPs.

Purpose of the SMZ

SMZ The purpose of an

is to protect the natural water system from adjacent land-use activities. Areas on both sides

of watercourses or around standing bodies of water should be delineated and given special consideration to protect

streambank integrity and avoid water pollution.

SMZ SMZs are not intended to clean-up the results of poor upstream, upslope or adjacent practices. The

does provide

a generally undisturbed buffer area so vegetation and the forest floor slow surface flow and physically trap and filter

SMZ out suspended sediments before these particles reach the stream channel or open water. The

can also act as a sink

of limited capacity for essential elements, nutrients and other chemicals via hydrologic, biologic, and physical

processes, both on the surface and subsurface. Adequately vegetated SMZs also provide wildlife corridors and shade

which may regulate stream water temperatures. This can be an important consideration in trout streams and wildlife

management.

Determination of SMZ Width

There is no uniform formula for the determination of SMZ width because of their highly site-specific nature.

SMZ The width of the

necessary to ensure protection of water quality and quantity has not been demonstrated by specific

SMZ studies. No scientific means are currently available for exactly defining optimal

width.

SMZ If shading to control temperature in the watercourse were the only management concern, only a relatively narrow

SMZ would be necessary for protection. Other conditions that must be factored into determination of

width, however,

SMZ include slope, depth to water table, vigor of riparian vegetation, nature of the hydraulic connectivity between the

and the watercourse, degree of management (e.g., harvesting) within the SMZ, the potential for windthrow or

blowdown of residuals into the watercourse, and other local conditions.

11

The width of an SMZ should be determined by on-site evaluation. Variation in topography or other conditions

SMZ along a watercourse or surrounding a body of standing water may require changes in the

width. Generally, the

A steeper the slope the wider the SMZ, and the more gentle the slope the narrower the SMZ. similar rule-of-thumb

applies for erodible soils: the more erodible the soil the wider the SMZ, and the less erodible the soil, the narrower

the SMZ needed.

SMZ For the majority of conditions in Georgia, the width of an

should range from at least 20 feet on each side of

streambeds in slightly erodible soils to 50 feet in severely erodible soils where slopes perpendicular to the stream are

less than 5 percent, such as in the Lower Coastal Plain. In areas such as the Upper Coastal Plain, where slopes vary
greatly, SMZs should range from at least 40 feet in slightly erodible soils and 5 percent slopes to 160 feet in severely

erodible soils and 20 percent slopes. In areas where slopes exceed 20 percent, such as in the Piedmont and Mountain

SMZ regions, the

should range from at least 80 feet wide in slightly erodible soils to a minimum of 160 feet in severely

erodible soils. Refer to Figure 1. for generalized width recommendations based on slope and erosion hazard. Managers

SMZ should be aware of the site conditions that would require a change in the width of the

from what is generally

recommended.

>
if.

^ ! PRIMARY

SECONDARY

SMZ

SMZ

LOWER COASTAL

PLAIN:

'

20 '

UPPER COASTAL

PLAIN:

40 '

40 '

PIEDMONT & MOUNTAIN

80 '

80 '

j|5y^?fr^ 2"j-~gc* S^=^
|C---gi

PRIMARY SMZ

SECONDARY SMZ

STREAM BED

20 ' 40 ' 80'

40 ' 80'

Figure 1. Generalized streamside management zones and their widths by region
Specific Recommendations Within The WetJand SMZ
Timber Harvest. For any harvest within the SMZ, all standard BMPs apply. In additon:
BMP Recommendations 1. Consider SMZs in the preharvest planning. 2. Determine the SMZ width.
3. Locate log decks and sawmills on well-drained sites at least 50 feet outside the primary SMZ.
4. Stabilize roads, stream crossings and monitor conditions at crossings, bridges, culverts, etc. See Sec-
tion II, Stream Crossings in Recommended Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia
for specific guidelines.
5. If no harvest is to occur within the SMZ, it should remain as undisturbed as possible, including limited
access, etc. to protect site integrity and productivity. 12

6. Harvesting within an SMZ, including patch clearcuts and selective harvests, should leave the forest
floor as undisturbed as possible. 7. Selective harvests should leave a residual stand with diverse species composition and " * leave' ' trees
of various heights.

Practices to be Avoided 1. With the exception of stream crossings, placing roads or skid trails within an SMZ.
2. Unnecessary stream crossings.
3. Locating landings, staging areas, or log decks within the SMZ.
4. Contamination of soil and water by refueling, servicing or repairing equipment. 5. Felling trees into the streambed. Debris such as tops and limbs should be kept out of the stream. If such
materials enter streams or sloughs, they should be removed. Water flow should not be restricted or impeded in any way.
6. Avoid rutting and soil compaction by limiting logging equipment use within the SMZ. Use harvesting
systems which minimize soil disturbance. Avoid activity on saturated soils.

SMZ Access. The

should remain as undisturbed as possible to protect site integrity and productivity. Therefore, limit

access through the SMZ.

Timber Stand Improvement. Timber management objectives may be best met by removal of undesirable species by mechanical or chemical methods on individual stems.

Wildlife. Selective timber harvest plans should include provisions for leaving trees essential for wildlife. Residual
trees should include various height classes and species diversity, providing both food and suitable habitat. SMZs also
serve as travel lanes for some species. More specific recommendations are dependent upon the species involved. State
and federal regulations pertaining to wildlife, such as endangered species, must be observed.

SMZ Fire. Use of fire should be restricted within the

when managing for hardwoods. Fire can be detrimental to

hardwood regeneration and productivity. Wetland SMZs should be protected from fire, especially during dry periods

because riparian vegetation may be necessary for the stability and integrity of the streambank and the periphery of open

bodies of water. Uncontrolled fire can destroy the litter, duff, and humus layers of the forest floor and expose mineral

soil to erosion altering conditions.

SMZ Chemicals. Pesticide and fertilizer use should be limited within the

because of their pollution potential. Pesticide

treatment should be made by injection or directed application. Forest fertilizer should be applied in such a manner

(rate, time, frequency of application, etc.) to prevent soil or water pollution. If state and federal laws regarding the

proper use of silvicultural chemicals are adhered to, and manufacturer's label directions followed; the judicious use

SMZ of chemicals should not jeopardize the

or the water it protects. Care should also be taken in areas adjacent to

SMZ SMZ the

to prevent the drift, spill, seepage, or wash of silvicultural chemicals into the

or watercourse.

Site Preparation. Mechanical site preparation is prohibited within the primary SMZ.

Reforestation. Natural regeneration, hand planting, or direct seeding are generally acceptable within the SMZ. Refer
to the regeneration recommendations for specific guidelines.

Summary

BMPs Recommended

1. Consider SMZs in planning.

SMZ 2. On-site evaluation to determine

width.

3. Harvest systems which minimize forest floor disturbance.

4. Any type of cutting practice, including patch clearcutting, except where it will affect water temperatures

to the detriment of trout.

5. Natural regeneration, hand planting, or direct seeding.

13

Practices to be Avoided
1. Crossing streams or wet sites. 2. Use of wheeled or tracked vehicles. 3. Leaving trees, tops, or anything in the water. 4. Placement of anything in the streambed that would impede water flow. 5. Roads or trails or any kind, unless absolutely necessary.
6. Fire.
7. Mechanical site preparation or machine planting. 8. Sawmills, log decks, landings, or staging areas. 9. Aerial or broadcast application of silvicultural chemicals.
14

'

WETLAND ACCESS SYSTEMS

Properly constructed and maintained access systems are an essential element in the management of Georgia's forested wetlands. Access systems (roads of permanent or temporary nature) are required for routine management, timber removal, fire suppression, and fire protection.
Properly constructed roads provide a means to access and conduct normal silvicultural operations without site degradation. Roads that are improperly located, constructed, or maintained have the potential to adversely affect water quality, water quantity, and aesthetics. They also accelerate erosion, and reduce or degrade wildlife and/or fishing habitat. Access roads should not significantly alter the hydrologic make-up of the forested wetland. Access roads and stream crossings should comply with guidelines established in the v " Manual for Erosion and Sediment Control
in Georgia. '
Forested Wetlands Access Guidelines
Permanent roads provide all season access for silvicultural operations. Permanent roads should only be constructed
to: (a) serve as access for large and frequently used areas, (b) serve as approaches to watercourse crossings, (c) serve as access for fire protection or property protection.
Temporary roads are constructed to provide access into a specific area for a specific operation. Properly constructed,
these temporary roads have less effect on the hydrology of forested wetlands than permanent roads and should be used whenever practical (see guidelines for closing, page 16).
Low water, hard surface crossings are a viable alternative to culvert or bridge crossings. Such crossings must be
designed to create a stable foundation in shallow streams. These types of crossings should not be designed to serve
as a dam and should limit the placement of rock or stabilization material to 6" above the streambed.
Wetland access roads and crossings should be made at right angles to the main stream channels and constructed to allow normal water flow under seasonal fluctuations and storms. An example of these types of crossings are bridges, culverts, or low water, hard surface crossings. Care must be taken to prescribe the correct size and/or frequency to assure normal
water flow (Table 1).

Table 1. Drainage for 2Vi- inches per hour rainfall*

Acres in Watershed

Cross-Section Area of Pipe Required (in sq. ft.) for:

Steep Slopes

Mod. Slopes Gentle Slopes

Impervious

Heavy Soils

Mod. Soils

Light Soils

Soils

25% +

15-25%

0-15%

10

3.4

2.6

1.9

1.2

20

5.8

4.3

3.2

2.0

30

8.0

5.9

4.4

2.8

40

9.9

7.3

5.4

3.5

50

11.6

9.7

6.4

4.1

60

13.4

10.1

7.4

4.7

70

15.0

11.2

8.3

5.3

80

16.6

12.4

9.2

6.3

90

18.2

13.6

10.1

6.3

100 200 300 400 500

19.7 33.2 45.7 56.0 66.8

14.7 24.9 33.6 42.0 49.4

10.8 18.4 27.1 30.5 36.6

6.8 11.7 15.8 19.5 23.2

1,000

113.0

88.9

62.1

39.4

""(Modified from Talbot's Formula for a 2 '/2-inch per hour rainfall)

Flatland
Sandy
Soils 0.7 1.2 1.6 2.0 2.3 2.7 3.0 3.3 3.6 3.9 6.6 9.0
11.2 13.2 22.4

15

To use the tables in selecting a culvert:

TABLE 2*

1. From Table 1, for the given watershed (Drainage) area, soil and
cover conditions, read the required pipe cross-section area for 2inches of rainfall per hour.
2. Select a culvert from Table 2 that has at least the required area determined above.
3. For watersheds that require more than 44.2 square feet of pipe (a 90-inch pipe), multiple pipe combinations should be used to meet
the pipe area requirements. It is generally preferable to use mult-
iple pipes of the same size and the pipes should be spaced leaving a distance of 1/2 the pipe diameter between the pipes. For example, if two 72-inch pipes are required, the pipes should be spaced 36-inches apart.

Diameters of Round Pipe Needed

for Pipe Cross-Section Areas Listed

in Table 1

Pipe Cross-Section

Area

Diameter

(sq. ft.)

(inch)

0.55

10

0.79

12

1.25

15

1.80

18

3.10

24

4.90

30

7.10

36

9.60

42

12.60

48

15.90

54

19.60

60

23.80

66

28.30

72

33.20

78

38.50

84

44.20

90

*King's Handbook on Hydraulics , modified by Forestry BMP Handbook Technical Advisory Committee.

When constructing access systems such as stream crossings, isolated wetland crossings, fill roads, or low water hard
surface crossings; the access system should be stabilized to prevent erosion and/or stream sedimentation. For areas that will not stabilize quickly, grass seeding or other stabilizing methods or materials must be used to prevent erosion or sedimentation.

After the activities on a temporary road have ceased, the removal of culverts and/or bridges is recommended. Allowing temporary roads to revegetate reduces potential erosion and allows the road bed to return to its natural state. Recommendations for seeding and mulching roads and disturbed areas are found in Table 3. Landowners may inquire
with the Game and Fish Division for preferred plant mixtures which will improve wildlife habitat.

Table 3. Recommendations for Seeding, Mulching and Fertilizing Roads, Skid Trails and Disturbed Areas in Georgia

UPPER & LOWER COASTAL PLAINS REGIONS

PIEDMONT REGION

MOUNTAIN REGION

Dates

Species for planting

Rates/Acre Dates

Species for Planting

Rates/Acre Dates

Species for Planting

Rates/Acre

Sept. 1 to
Nov. 15
Nov 15
to Feb. 15
Feb. 15
to
June 15

Tall fescue or "Pensacola" bahiagrass and rye grass

23-35 lb. 23-35 lb. 15 1b.

Tall fescue or 'Pensacola' bahiagrass and Abruzzii rye

25-35 lb. 20-25 lb. 1 bu.

Pensacola Bahiagrass

20-25 lb.

or bermuda grass and

6lb.

scarified sericea or

30-40 lb.

"ambro" virgata lespedeze

Sept. 1 to
Nov. 1

Nov. 1

to

Mar.

2
1

Mar. 1 to
Apr. 15

Apr. 15 to
July 1

Tall fescue and

23-35 lb.

unhulled sericea or

"Ambro" virgata lespedeza 50-60 lb.

Tall fescue and

25-35 lb.

unhulled sericea or

"Ambro" virgata lespedeza 50-60 lb.

and Abruzzi rye

1 bu.

Tall fescue and

25-35 lb.

scarified sericea or

"Ambro" virgata lespedeza 30-40 lb.

Pensacola bahiagrass and25-35 lb. scarified sericea or "Ambro" virgata lespedeza 40-60 lb.
or
common bermuda grass 6 lb. and scarified sericea or
"Ambro" virgata lespedeza 40-50 lb.

Mar. 15 to
June 1 and
June 1
to
Aug. 152
Aug. 15 to
Oct. 15
Oct. 15 to
Mar. 15

Tall Fescue and

25-35 lb.

sericea or "ambro"

virgata lespedeza

40-50 lb.

Weeping lovegrass and 4 lb.

scarified sericea or

"Ambro" virgata lespedeza 40-50 lb.

Browntop or "Dove" proso millet3

20-30 lb.

Tall fescue and

40 lb.

Unhulled sericea or

"Ambro" virgata lespedeza 40-60 lb.

or red clover

40 lb.

Tall fescue and

25-35 lb.

unhulled sericea or

"Ambro" virgata lespedeza 40-60 lb.

and Abruzzi rye (for

1 bu.

nurse crop)

1 1noculate legume seed. 2Planting during this period is hazardous and may have to be repeated. 3Can be used for temporary cover, June to August
NOTE: Fertilize with 800 to 1,000 lb. per acre of 6-12-12. Mulch slopes with 4,000 lb. small grain straw or 5,000 lb. hay per acre.

16

Fill roads should be constructed only when absolutely necessary for access. This is especially important in wetlands

with flowing water systems; fill roads always have the potential to restrict natural flow patterns. Cross drains may

be needed to ensure adequate surface water flow consistent with pre-existing conditions. When possible, roads should

be constructed at natural ground level because they are less likely to restrict flowing water. If fill roads are necessary

SMZ for access, they should be constructed parallel to the flow of the main channel and outside the

except when the

road is built for the purpose of crossing the main channel.

Since all fill roads have the potential to restrict the flow patterns or volumes of water movement through forested wetlands, water conveyance structures such as culverts, bridges, and fords must be installed with care to assure the conveyance of water through fill roads to provide for flood control, erosion control, and control potential damage to site productivity. Care must also be taken to size such structures to accommodate water volumes experienced during wet seasons or storms.

To prevent excessive rutting during adverse weather, traffic should be restricted and roads regraded. Gravel, mats,
and fabric can be used to improve drainage and bearing capacity of road. Broad based drainage dips, water bars, and turnouts are effective means of minimizing erosion losses for access crossings and roads which have significant topography changes. Refer to the publication, "Recommended Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia"
for guidelines.

Access systems should be constructed only after sufficient planning has been performed. As with all silvicultural activities, access systems should be constructed with emphasis placed on systems which will maintain or enhance
existing wetlands functions.
Recommended BMPs for Access Systems
1. Properly plan the access system. 2. Follow recognized and approved construction methods. 3. Construct stream crossings at right angles to the channel.
4. Use properly sized culverts and cross drains. 5. Stabilize soils around bridges and culverts. 6. Use temporary culverts and crossings where practical. 7. Restrict traffic on wet roads.

17

HARVESTING WETLAND SITES
Timber harvesting is necessary to achieve most management objectives in forest wetlands. Planning the harvest and selecting the right harvesting system can achieve management objectives such as timber production, ensuring stand establishment, and improving wildlife habitat, while avoiding the risks of detrimental impacts.
Planning the Harvest
Several factors should be considered before logging is initiated. Plan all access roads and major skid trails. Avoid locating major roads or trails in areas where rutting or soil puddling may occur. Structure road and trail drainage systems to allow continuous natural drainage. Estimate the amount of harvested timber that must be removed from the tract and the routes used to haul timber. Balance the road system to avoid over-using a particular haul road or skid trail. Plan the access system to minimize traffic over unstable soils or highly sensitive areas.
Schedule the harvest to take advantage of dry weather when the site would be least degraded. Also consider the impact of harvest timing on regeneration. If coppicing is used for regeneration, plan the harvest in late fall or early winter to increase reproductive vigor of the stump sprouts.
Determine the type of system best suited for harvesting in terms of system impact on site quality. Most harvesting systems can be used to log wetland sites, although some modification to the equipment may be required. At least three
different harvest systems are suitable for wetland logging.
Conventional harvesting systems currently log most of the wetland sites in the South. These systems are commonly comprised of a chainsaw crew, several skidders, a loader, and haul trucks (Fig. 2). Some mechanized operations use rubber tired feller-bunchers, rather than a chainsaw crew for felling. Others use tracked feller-bunchers which create less impact on the site than rubber-tired units. Logging with a conventional system can be used successfully on wetland sites, if access is planned and movement across the site is rigidly controlled.
CHAINSAW CREW
OR
FELLER-BUNCHER

SAWHAND

HAUL TRUCK

Figure 2. Components of a conventional harvesting system used for wetland logging
18

Cable yarder and aerial harvesting systems have been used in the South at different times to log wetlands inaccessible to conventional harvesting systems (Fig. 3). These systems are expensive to operate and not widely available. In most cases, a conventional harvesting system with controlled access to the site is as effective as either an aerial or cable system.
CHAINSAW CREW OR
FELLER-BUNCHER
HELICOPTER ^ - xr-- "" CABLE YARDER

SAWHAND JC ,^\

HAUL TRUCK

Figure 3. Components of a cable and aerial harvesting system for wetland logging.

Harvesting Constraints

During the harvest, constraints should be placed on equipment to minimize site disturbance, particularly in the SMZs. Encourage the use of low ground pressure tire or track configurations on all equipment, especially on all
skidding equipment. Locate skid trails along the contour to reduce erosion and improve vegetative reproduction.

Trees should not be felled into the streambed and debris, such as tree tops and limbs, should be kept out of the stream. If trees are felled into the stream, remove the material from the stream prior to completing the harvest. All equipment should be refueled, serviced and repaired well away from the stream. Trash, such as discarded oil and hydraulic fluid containers, should be removed from the site to avoid soil and stream contamination. Landings should be maintained
during operation and cleaned up prior to moving. Landing size should be kept to a minimum and located on high ground
where possible.

SMZ Special effort should be made to keep the

areas intact during the harvest. Avoid stream crossings whenever

possible to minimize stream contamination by leaking diesel fuel or oil. Do not place landings or log decks in an SMZ.

Avoid placing roads or skid trails in the SMZ. If a road is required, be sure to stabilize the crossing area prior to use. Keep disturbance from logging equipment to a minimum.

Harvest Supervision

Supervision is required to ensure that any forest operation proceeds in a correct manner. Make sure the logging crew understands what is expected during harvest. Logging operations on wetland sites should be closely supervised
to avoid environmental problems. Areas that require detailed supervision include timber transport and skidding operations. Limit the operations on sensitive sites during periods of abnormally wet conditions to avoid site damage. Monitor road and culvert conditions to prevent problems before they occur.

19

Recommended Best Management Practices for Harvesting Wetland Sites
Recommended BMPs for wetland harvesting operations differ slightly from those provided for other harvesting
situations, as detailed in the Georgia Forestry Commission pamphlet v ' Recommended Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia". The following practices are recommended when harvesting most wetland sites:
Recommended BMPs
1. Areas on both sides of a water course should be given special consideration to protect stream bank
integrity.
2. Limit the operations on sensitive sites during periods of abnormally wet conditions to avoid site damage.
3. Locate all major skid trails outside the SMZ.
4. Approaches to water crossings should be as near to a right angle as possible. 5. Keep skidder loads light and use high flotation tires or wide tracks to improve flotation. 6. Concentrate skid trails when ground is saturated to minimize compaction and soil disturbance.
7. When ground is dry, alternate skid trails to minimize soil disturbance.
8. Locate landings (log decks, docks, etc) before establishing the road system.
9. Keep the number and size of landings to a minimum. Where possible, place decks and landings on sites that are well drained and slightly sloped to ensure rapid drying during wet periods.
10. Place landings outside the SMZ. When servicing equipment at the landing do not allow waste oil or fuel to drain onto the ground. Remove all garbage and trash from the landing prior to abandonment and seed-
in the site to reduce erosion potential.
11. Keep all roads and ditches free of logging debris. Proper planning, recommended harvest practices, and adequate supervision during the harvest will help protect and maintain our forested wetlands for future use and enjoyment.
20

REGENERATING WETLAND FORESTS
Successful regeneration begins with a forest management plan which evaluates regeneration options prior to harvest. Repeated selective harvesting without regard for regeneration usually results in a decline of stocking and value of desirable species. The choice of regeneration method is dependent on timber species present, age, stocking, soils, other site and stand characteristics, and the landowner's primary management objectives. Successful regeneration may be
natural or artificial.
Concepts of Natural Regeneration
Forested wetlands can be extremely productive and many have the capacity to naturally regenerate themselves. Natural regeneration utilizes the normal cycle of species succession. Landowner objectives determine whether the regeneration
cycle will focus on early or climax species. Two types of silvicultural systems, even age and uneven age, are available.
Their application will depend on fundamental management decisions and the silvicultural characteristics of desired tree species. Well-stocked young to middle-aged stands provide more management and regeneration options than understocked or over-mature stands.
Hardwood Regeneration . Clearcutting, properly applied, has the greatest application of any
management system for natural regeneration of quality southern hardwoods. Coppice regeneration from stumps and roots of young vigorous stands is generally more successful than those from mature or climax species. Schedule the harvest in late fall or early winter to increase reproductive vigor of the stump sprouts. Hardwood regeneration which relies on seed production and dissemination from seed trees is generally impractical and unnecessary. Shelterwood systems may have application for regeneration of late successional species and are frequently recommended for wildlife management or aesthetic considerations.
A Pine Regeneration . regeneration harvest is required. This may include intermediate or
shelterwood systems or leaving evenly spaced seed trees to provide adequate seed fall. Once seedlings are established the seed trees should be removed. Clearcuts timed to coincide with natural seed fall may result in adequate regeneration on some sites.
Concepts of Artificial Regeneration
Some wetland sites are not conducive to site preparation and planting equipment. However, during dry periods many of these sites can be artificially regenerated with pine or hardwood species with varying degrees of success. Artificial hardwood regeneration is usually more expensive due to seed or seedling costs, availability, and the extra protection needed from herbaceous and woody competition. Sites that can be artificially regenerated tend to have greater rates of success when planted or seeded to pines.
Artificial regeneration includes but is not limited to the use of prescribed fire, chemical, or mechanical site preparation treatments such as chopping, shearing, piling, raking, disking, bedding and fertilization. (Minor drainage for removal
of surface water may be recommended and is widely practiced). Minor drainage does not include drainage associated with the immediate or gradual conversion of a wetland to a non-wetland. Stand establishment may be accomplished by broadcast seeding, or by hand or machine planting seed or seedlings. Species choice is a management option.
Recommended Regeneration Practices by Wetlands Groups
Regeneration systems commonly used in forested wetlands include: patch or clearcut followed by natural or artificial regeneration, shelterwood, seed tree, and group selection. Single tree selection systems may be recommended for sensitive areas such as streamside management zones. Definitions of these systems are found in the appendix.
Care must be exercised during intermediate cuts to avoid soil puddling and compaction and prevent residual stand damage. Regeneration systems that require repeated stand entry are less effective for forest wetlands types with high
organic soils. These types may include black river bottoms, branch bottoms, muck swamps, peat swamps and cypress
domes.
21

Complete overstory felling is the preferred site preparation method for obtaining natural regeneration of bottomland hardwoods. Site preparation practices that significantly till surface soil should be minimized on areas that are subject to flooding or where surface runoff may result in increased turbidity of adjacent waters.
FLOOD PLAINS, TERRACES AND BOTTOMLAND
Natural Regeneration: From seed, seedlings in place prior to and from coppice following a harvest cut. Harvest may be stand clearcutting, patch cutting or group selection. Clearcutting is most effective for hardwood regeneration. Natural regeneration of pine requires seed or
seedlings in place prior to harvest or the implementation of a regeneration type harvest.
Regeneration of desired species may be encouraged by removing understory stems.
Artificial Regeneration: Not normally recommended in bottomland, first terrace, or muck swamps. Regeneration of second terraces may be accomplished by a wide array of site preparation techniques. These may include various combinations of shearing, disking, bedding, burning, herbicides, and fertilization. Planting of seed or seedlings may be by hand or machine. The choice of method and species is a management option.
WET FLATS
Natural Regeneration: From seed, seedlings in place and coppice development following
clearcutting, patch cutting or group selection. Broadcast burning for pine regeneration should
be conducted when soil moisture is acceptably high.
Artificial Regeneration: Accomplished by a wide array of site preparation and stand establishment techniques including mechanical, chemical, burning and fertilization. Bedding is recommended and widely practiced. The choice of method and species is a management option. Broadcast burning should be conducted when soil moisture is acceptably high.
PEAT SWAMPS, CYPRESS DOMES
Natural Regeneration: From seed, seedlings in place and coppice development following
clearcutting.
Artificial Regeneration: May be accomplished by direct seeding.
GULFS, COVES, LOWER SLOPES ADJACENT TO STREAMS, PIEDMONT BOTTOMLANDS
Natural Regeneration: From seed, seedlings in place and coppice development following
clearcutting, patch or group selection.
Artificial Regeneration: Accomplished by a wide array of site preparation and stand establishment techniques including both mechanical and chemical. Mechanical site preparation
should be avoided within the primary SMZ.
22

.

Recommended Regeneration Systems By Forested Wetland Type

Type

NATURAL REGENERATION

Group

Clearcut

Selection

Shelter
Wood

Seed 1 Tree

FLOOD PLAINS, TERRACES, E30TTOMU

Black River

A

Red River

A

Branch Bottoms

A

Piedmont Bottoms

A

Muck Swamps

A

B

B

C

B

B

C

B

B

C

B

B

C

C

C

C

WET FLATS

Pine Hammocks & Savannas

A

Pocosins or Bays

A

Cypress Strands

A

B

B

B

C

B

B

C

C

C

CYPRESS DOMES: PEAT SWAMPS

Peat Swamps

A

Cypress Domes

A

GULFS, COVES, LOWER SLOPES A

C

C

C

BBC C

C

C

ARTIFICIAL REGENERATION

Mechanical

Direct

Site Prep.

Plant

Seed

D

C

C

D

B

B

D

C

C

D

B

B

D

C

C

A

A

B

B

B

B

D

C

C

C

C

C

D

C

C

C

B

1 Seed tree cuts are not recommended on first terraces of flood plains, terraces and bottomland.

A - Highly effective
B - Effective
C - Less effective D - Not recommended

Recommended BMPs for Regeneration Systems

1 Evaluate regeneration options prior to harvest.
2. Minimize soil degradation from harvest and site preparation by limiting operations on saturated soils. 3. Construct beds and plant on the contour.
4. Avoid mechanical site preparation and planting in the SMZ.

For Natural Regeneration

5. Harvest during dormant seasons to take advantage of current seed sources and favorable coppice growth.
6. Harvest the present stand as completely as possible to allow maximum light for shade intolerant species.

7. Harvest trees at a stump height of less than 12" to promote vigorous coppice.

DBH 8. Control residual stems larger than 1.5"

by shearing, felling girdling or herbicides within 6 months

of harvest.

23

..

Summary of Recommended BMPs For Forested Wetlands

SMZs
1. 2. 3. 4.

Consider SMZs in planning.
Determine and mark SMZ width on site.
Harvest systems which minimize forest floor disturbance.
Any type of cutting practice, including patch clearcutting, except where it will affect water temperatures to
the detriment of trout.

5. Natural regeneration, hand planting, or direct seeding.
Practices to be Avoided

1. Crossing streams or wet sites. 2. Use of wheeled or tracked vehicles.

3. Leaving trees, tops, or anything in the water. 4. Placement of anything in the streambed that would impede water flow.

5. Roads or trails or any kind, unless absolutely necessary.

6. Fire.

7. Mechanical site preparation or machine planting.

8. Sawmills, log decks, landings, or staging areas.

9. Aerial or broadcast application of silvicultural chemicals.

Access Systems
1. Properly plan the access system. 2. Follow approved construction methods. 3. Construct stream crossings at right angles to the channel.
4. Use properly sized culverts and cross drains. 5. Stabilize soils around bridges and culverts. 6. Use temporary culverts and crossings where practical. 7. Restrict skidder and truck traffic on wet roads.

Harvesting Wetland Sites 1. Protect stream bank integrity. 2. Limit the operations on sensitive sites during periods of abnormally wet conditions to avoid site damage. 3. Locate all major skid trails outside the SMZ. 4. Approaches to water crossings should be at right angles. 5. Keep skidder loads light and use high flotation tires or wide tracks to improve flotation. 6. Concentrate skid trails when ground is saturated to minimize compaction and soil disturbance.
7. When ground is dry, alternate skid trails to minimize soil disturbance.
8. Locate landings (log decks, docks, etc) before establishing the road system.
9. Keep the number and size of landings to a minimum. Where possible, place decks and landings on sites that are well drained and slightly sloped to ensure rapid drying during wet periods.
10. Place landings outside the SMZ. When servicing equipment at the landing do not allow waste oil or fuel to drain onto the ground. Remove all garbage and trash from the landing prior to abandonment and seed-
in the site to reduce erosion potential.
1 1 Keep all roads and ditches free of logging debris.

Regeneration Systems

1 Evaluate regeneration options prior to harvest.

2. Minimize soil degradation from harvest and site preparation by limiting operations on saturated soils.

3. Construct beds and plant on the contour.
4. Avoid mechanical site preparation and planting in the SMZ.

For Natural Regeneration

5. Harvest during dormant seasons to take advantage of current seed sources and favorable coppice growth.

6. Harvest the present stand as completely as possible to allow maximum light for shade intolerant species.

7. Harvest trees at a stump height of less than 12" to promote vigorous coppice.

DBH 8. Control residual stems larger than 1.5"

by shearing, felling girdling or herbicides within 6 months

of harvest.

24

APPENDIX

A Clearcutting. Strictly speaking, the removal of the entire standing crop. silvicultural system in which the old crop
is cleared over a considerable area at one time; conifer regeneration is generally artificial, natural regeneration possible by seeding from adjacent stands or from seed and/or advanced growth already on the ground. Hardwood regeneration from coppice.

A Group Selection. modification of the selection system in which trees are removed in small groups at a time. The
canopy is opened by group cuttings to create evenly distributed gaps that are enlarged by subsequent cuttings as
regeneration develops.

A Patch Cutting. modification of the clearcutting system developed in the Pacific Coast, whereby patches of 40-
200 acres are logged as single settings, separated for as long as practicable by living forests. In the Southeast
the sizes are generally smaller.

A Seed Tree.

tree selected and retained following harvest to provide seed for natural regeneration.

Seed Tree Cutting. Removal in one cut of the mature timber from an area, save for a small number of seed bearers left singly or in small groups. The objective is to create an even-age stand.

Selection Cutting. The annual or periodic removal of trees, individually or in small groups, from an uneven-age forest. The improvement of the forest is a primary consideration.

Shelterwood Cutting. Any regeneration cutting in a more or less regular and mature crop, designed to establish a new crop under the protection of the old.

Shelterwood Systems. Even-aged silvicultural systems in which in order to provide a source of seed and/or protection for regeneration, the old crop is removed in two or more successive shelterwood cuttings, the first of which is ordinarily the seed cutting and the last is the final cutting, any intervening cuttings being termed removal
cuttings.

Single Tree Selection. The removal of single, mature, individual or exceedingly small clumps of several such trees. This system is used in situations that preclude complete overstory removal such as streamside management zones, recreation areas, and locations where aesthetics are a prime consideration.

Silviculture. The science and art of cultivating forest crops. The theory and practice of controlling the establishment, composition, constitutional growth of forests.

25

REFERENCES/ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Alabama's Best Management Practices for Silviculture. 1983. Alabama Forestry Commission. 29 p.

Best Management Practices for Forested Wetlands in North Carolina. N.C. Forestry Commission, Unpublished.

Best Management Practices for South Carolina's Forest Wetlands. 1988. S.C. Forestry Commission. 20 p. Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia. 1988. Georgia Forestry Commission. 24 p.

Carlton, R. L. and Jeff Jackson. 1987. Selected Practices and Planting for Wildlife. Cooperative Extension Service, University of Georgia, lip.

Forestry Best Management Practices for Water Quality in Virginia. 1989. Virginia Division of Forestry. 76 p.

Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission, 1989, Manual for Erosion and Sediment Control in Georgia.

Glossary of Geology. 1987. American Geological Institute. Third Edition, R. L. Bates and J. A. Jackson, Editors, 788 p.
Kellison, R. C, J.P.Martin, G.D.Hansen, and R. Lea. 1988. Regenerating and Managing natural stands of
bottomland hardwoods. APA. 88-A-6, 26 p.

Management Guidelines for Forested Wetlands in Florida. 1987. Florida Division of Forestry and Florida Forestry Association. 46 p.

Nutter, W. L. and J. W. Gaskin. 1988. Role of Streamside Management Zones in Controlling Discharges to

Wetlands. Pgs. 81-14 in Hook, Donal D. and Lea, Russ, editors. 1989 Proceedings of the Symposium: The

Forested Wetlands of the Southeastern United States; 1988 July 12-14 Orlando Florida. General Technical Report

USDA SE-50 Asheville, NC.

Forest Service Southeastern Forest Experiment Station. 168 p.

Reed, P.B., Jr. 1988. National List of Plant Species that Occur in Wetlands: National Summary. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, DC. Biol Rpt. 88(24). 244 pp.

Soil Survey Interpretations for Woodlands in the Southern Coastal Plain and Associated Areas of Georgia, North

USDA Carolina, and South Carolina. 1970.

Soil Conservation Service. Progress Report W-16. 26 p.

Soil Survey Interpretations for Woodlands in the Southern Piedmont Areas of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina,

USDA and South Carolina. 1969.

Soil Conservation Service. Progress Report W-13. 20p.

Terminology of Forest Science Technology Practices and Products. 1983. Society of American Foresters. Washington, DC. 370 p.

U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service. 1987. Hydric Soils of the United States, 1987. In cooperation with the
National Technical Committee for Hydric Soils. USDA-SCS, Washington, DC.

USDA U.S.D.A. Forest Service. 1988. The South's Fourth Forest: Alternatives for the Future.

Forest Resource

Report No. 24. Washington, DC. 512 p.

26

7
NIVVERSITY OF GEORGIA LIBRARIE
3 Eioa oa'nt SMEM
For additional information regarding any aspect of this booklet, contact your local Water Quality Coordinator located in one of the following districts
GEORGIA FORESTRY COMMISSION OFFICES

Georgia Forestry Commission
Central Office
P.O. Box 819 Macon. Georgia 31298-4599
1-800-GA TREES

Rome District
3086 Martha Berry Hwy.. NE
Rome. Georgia 30165-7708 (706)295-6021

Americus District
243 US Hwy 19 North
Americus. Georgia 3 1 709-97 1 (912)928-1301

Gainesville District
3005 Atlanta Hwy. Gainesville. Georgia 30507
(706) 534-5454

Tifton District
Route 3. Box 17 Tifton. Georgia 31794-9401
(912)386-3617

Athens District 1055 E. Whitehall Road Athens. Georgia 30605
(706) 542-6880
Newnan District 187 Corinth Road Newnan. Georgia 30263-5167
(404)254-7218

Camilla District
P.O. Box 345 Camilla. Georgia 31730
(912)336-5341
Statesboro District
Route 2. Box 28 Statesboro. Georgia 30458-9803
(912)764-2311

Milledgeville District
119 Highway 49 Milledgeville. Georgia 31061
(912)453-5164

McRae District Route 1. Box 67
Helena. Georgia 31037 (912)868-5649

Washington District 1465 Tignall Road
Washington. Georgia 30673-9802 (706)678-2015

Waycross District
5003 Jacksonville Hwy
Waycross. Georgia 3 1 503 (912)287-4915

Urban Project 6835 Memorial Drive Stone Mountain. Georgia 30083-2236
(404) 294-3550

*
GEORGIA
FORESTRY/
m&r
John W. Mixon
Director
Frank Green Water Quality Coordinator

Approximate Cost Of Press Time and Paper Only.

COST: S440O.no

QTY. s .

8

10

GEORGIA
FORE$TRYj
v
John W. Mixon
Director Frank Green
Water Quality Coordinator

Approximate Cosl Of Press Time and Paper Only.

COST: M400.00

QTY. s.ow