13 - Best Management Practices

Question 1

What is the definition of ‘Best Management Practices’ (BMP)?

Answer 1

A management or structural practice or
system designed to reduce detrimental
environmental effects of land management
activities

Question 2

Give 4 examples of forestry BMPs in watersheds

Answer 2

• Pre-harvesting planning
• Streamside management
• Forest wetlands protection
• Road construction and maintenance

Question 3

Give another 4 BMPs in forestry

Answer 3

• Timber harvesting
• Re-vegetation
• Fire management
• Restoration

Question 4

what is pre harvest planning

Answer 4

involves studying the area, deciding where to farm or build, and figuring out ways to protect the environment, like preventing soil erosion and saving water.

Question 5

what does pre harvest planning identify

Answer 5

should identify potential adverse impacts such as eroded roads , excessive sediment, and stream damage and identify steps to avoid these impacts. Also identify boundaries of sensitive areas such as wetlands and streamside management zones (SMZ)

Question 6

Define streamside management

Answer 6

the careful and strategic planning and practices applied to the areas along rivers, streams, and other water bodies to protect riparian zones while considering the adjacent land uses

Question 7

what are factors to consider with streamside management zones

Answer 7

SMZ width varies in response to factors like slope, type of stream and vulnerable fish and wildlife species.

Question 8

define Forest wetland protection

Answer 8

Forest wetland protection involves measures and strategies aimed at safeguarding and preserving wetland ecosystems within forested areas.

Question 9

What is a function of Forest wetland protection

Answer 9

roads are built near wetlands to maintain the same amount of water flow to and from the wetlands. SMZ boundaries around adjacent wetlands and isolated wetlands

Question 10

how is road construction and maintenance a management practice for watershed

Answer 10

crucial to minimize negative environmental effects. Proper planning, construction techniques, and ongoing maintenance can help mitigate the impact of roads on watersheds

Question 11

how can incorrect culvert placement impact fish

Answer 11

maintenance of culverts and placement prevents fish from reaching upstream habitats by exceeding the height they can leap

Question 12

why are some roads flooded

Answer 12

drainage is poor making it high risk for flooding and pooling of water, increased erosion, risk of landslides

Question 13

what is timber harvesting

Answer 13

Timber harvesting, or logging, is the process of selectively removing trees for timber or wood products

Question 14

how does timber harvesting help watershed management

Answer 14

controls erosion by maintaining buffer zones, watershed health, biodiversity, etc

Question 15

define re-vegetation

Answer 15

planting or restoring vegetation in areas where plants have been removed or disturbed.

Question 16

what are ways fire management can help watersheds

Answer 16

reducing wildfire risk, promoting healthy soil and plants, preventing invasive species, and protecting water quality. Controlled burns, when done carefully, benefit biodiversity, restore habitats, and enhance community safety