Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
that must reflect a narrow tolerance in elevation (e.g., wetland sites) to comply with specifications.
At the same time, you may also be using equipment to reduce soil compaction on the project site.
Sometimes, you will need to get to the other side of a natural area to reach a restoration site with
construction equipment. Practitioners in some regions have developed means of installing tempo-
rary access roads on top of meadow and wetland sites that, once removed, show very little impact to
the original surface (California Tahoe Conservancy 2012a). This can be done by placing soil on top
of portable road mats, which are plastic or fabric (e.g., geotextile) laid on top of the vegetation. Also,
several types of new low-impact wheeled vehicles, similar to those used in the logging industry, have
been invented that minimize soil compaction. Install temporary measures to protect any vegetation
that is to remain on the project site and any sensitive areas from accidental damage by equipment.
Temporary fencing may also be needed to define and restrict access to planting areas. Sometimes,
this “temporary” infrastructure will need to be strong enough to remain in place for several years.
The temporary nursery discussed earlier and in chapter 8 will require fencing and a water sup-
ply. The nursery location should be sheltered from the wind and, depending on the species held,
may also need protection from the sun. Bare root plants will need to be kept in a dark, cool, moist
location or temporarily planted in trenches. Special provisions will need to be made for holding
any woody cuttings that cannot be installed right away.
We talked about establishing a water supply and constructing temporary irrigation systems in
chapter 7. Now is when you will want to establish a point of connection for your water supply at
your project site. Generally, restoration projects do not require electricity at the site; however, a
temporary electrical line may be needed to operate pumps or other machinery.
Permanent infrastructure should be constructed at this time. This includes access roads, drain-
age improvements, water control structures, fencing and barriers restricting access, trails, and vis-
itor viewing areas.
Installation of Biotic Elements
Having healthy plants is essential, but it cannot overcome poor handling and installation. Proper
installation of the plant materials (fig. 10-6) cannot be overemphasized.
One responsibility of the site inspector is to inspect the condition of the plant materials that are
delivered to the project site. While inspecting the aboveground parts of plants, you should evaluate
the vigor (health) of the plants and look for any signs of injury or pests or disease. Inspect the root
systems of randomly selected plants grown in containers to confirm root health. Dorner (2002)
describes additional issues:
• Is the root ball well rooted in the substrate?
• Are there healthy main roots and plenty of smaller, fibrous roots?
• Are there circling or kinked roots close to the main stem or in the central root zone?
• Are the root tips healthy and actively growing?
• Are there circling roots at the bottom of the container?
• Are the roots mostly at the top portion or on one side of the container?
• Are there roots coming out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the container?
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