STEP 1 ‑ GRANT APPLICATION SUMMARY

I.          APPLICANT INFORMATION

A.           Applicant Name         Powell County                                                  

B.            Mailing Address         409 Missouri Avenue                                        

C.            City, State, Zip           Deer Lodge, MT  59722                                               

D.           Telephone Number(s)   (406) 846-3680                                               

E.            Contact Person          Jed Thomas                                                                                                               

1.               Address (if different from applicant)

2.    Telephone     (406) 721-4877                                                             

F.            This grant is requested by (Check One)

________State government unit                       _________ Irrigation district

 __X   __   City, town, or county           _________ Conservation district

_________  County water district         _________  Tribal Government

II.        PROJECT INFORMATION

A.           Project Title:  GARRISON WETLANDS PROJECT                          

B.            Brief Project Description:  Wetland Reclamation and Redevelopment               

C.            Project Category (applicants must check the one that best describes their project)

_____X_____ Mineral Development Impacts

__________ Crucial State Need

D.           Estimated date for beginning your project         May 2005                     (month/year)

E.            Estimated time (in months) that it will take to complete your project or activity   24         months

F.           Project Budget

*We (the applicant) request a grant in the amount of                      $ 212,950

We (the applicant) will contribute this amount of money                  $ 7,000

We have obtained funding commitments from the

following sources. (List the amount and name

of source[s] below and enter total at right.)                                                $ 107,100

          USDA                                      $ 66,100

          MT Wetlands Legacy                $ 20,000

           Sage Resources                                    $ 15,000

            Ducks Unlimited                        $ 15,000

                                        TOTAL PROJECT COSTS:          $ 327,050

*The maximum allowable grant amount is $300,000.

III.       AUTHORIZING STATEMENT

I hereby certify that the information and all statements in this application are true, complete and accurate to the      best of my knowledge and that the project or activity complies with all applicable state, local and federal laws             and regulations.

I further certify that this project will comply with applicable statutory and regulatory standards protecting environ-mental quality.

I further certify that I am (we are) authorized to enter into a binding agreement with the Department of Natural     Resources and Conservation to obtain a grant if this application receives legislative approval.

____________________________________________Date _________________________

Month                Day                  Year

Signature and Title of Authorized Representative(s)

of Public Entity Applicant

Tom Hatch, Chairman, Powell County Commissioners

Please print name and title of representative(s) signing above

Department of Natural Resources and Conservation       n              Reclamation and Development Grants Program
STEP 2- PROJECT ABSTRACT

Project Title:                 Garrison Wetlands Project

Project Sponsor:           Powell County Commissioners

This project will enable PowellCounty to reclaim and redevelop the former Garrison Phosphate mill site as a wetlands habitat, viewing area, and outdoor classroom. Enhancing wetland surface waters at the 43-acre site will create a significant public benefit by enhancing habitat for various wildlife species. The project is located along US Interstate 90 and US Highway 12 at the confluence of the Clark Fork and Little Blackfoot Rivers.

The site improvements completed with these DNRC funds will reclaim land impacted by mineral development activities and address a crucial state need for wetlands habitat improvement.

Preliminary mitigation work has been completed through private and public efforts at the former phosphate mill.  Additional redevelopment tasks are needed to develop the site as a viable wetlands habitat and wildlife viewing area.  The requested funds will be used by PowellCounty for following specific tasks:

1. Removal of surface debris, limestone waste, and physical hazards.
2. Conceptual design of trails, access, parking, habitat, viewing areas.
3. Engineering design of trails, access, parking, habitat, viewing areas.
4. Re-vegetation with appropriate plant species.
5. Trail reconstruction.
6. Road access and parking construction.
7. Project marketing and website development

These tasks will restore wetland habitat, provide public viewing areas, and complete walking trails at the Garrison Wetlands.  The project addresses the need for wildlife viewing as identified by regional tourism studies, and wetland habitat where scientific study shows it to be much threatened.  State and national administrations over the last 12 years have pledged a “no net loss” or actual increase in wetland habitat. President Bush has recently reiterated the “crucial need for wetlands”.  In addition, strong economic data indicates that tourism is dramatically enhanced by wetland preservation.

DNRC funding of this project will enhance the State of Montana’s efforts to increase wildlife habitat, walking trails, and clean waters.  This will be an exemplary project for both mineral development reclamation and wetland restoration in the Clark Fork valley and create a tourism site where it will most benefit the state economy.

STEP 3- TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION AND ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS

From 1963 to 1976 the Rocky Mountain Phosphate Plant at Garrison produced a dehydrated lime and a phosphate supplement.   DHES and EPA project managers oversaw a number of private cleanup efforts and site sampling projects.  Salvage and remediation efforts removed debris, equipment, and waste from the site lands and shallow ponds, and provided some re-vegetation at the property.

In 1988, Mr. Lawrence Gunter purchased the property, including the plant and the surrounding area.  Mr. Gunter donated a 43-acre conservation easement to PowellCounty, including the plant, access road and the ponds.  PowellCounty expanded cleanup efforts in 1994, through the “Brown Fields to Green Fields” program. EPA funds and in-kind contributions from the county accomplished the following reclamation work at the site:

• Resolved water right issues for pond areas and water rights, September 1995.
• Proposed wetlands habitat reuse of the site.
• Designed foundation demolition and earthwork, October 1996.
• Completed initial building demolition and earthwork, December 1996.
• Finalized easement for PowellCounty control of area surface.

The DNRC funds will allow PowellCounty to complete the work required to turn this area, already the focus of an extensive private and public restoration effort, into a viable wetland and wildlife viewing area. Money spent on viewing opportunities, marketing and website design will increase the visibility of project as a tourist destination.  This is a unique and focused opportunity for the DNRC to showcase mineral development reclamation.

SITE CHARACTERIZATION

The site is located near the junction of Montana Highway 12 and U.S. Interstate 90, in the SE/NE/NW/4 of Sec 24, T9N, R10W, Latitude 46^o 31’27”, Longitude 112^o 47’54”, Garrison, Montana (see Figure 1).   The property can be driven to from two exits on Interstate 90 (Helena exits) or from Highway 12.  The highway exits lead to the eastern edge of the property.  Access to the site is through a locked gate and a gravel/dirt road which winds onto the center of the site (see Figure 2).

There are six ponds on the property and several intervening water paths.  Surface water is formed from groundwater upwelling to the surface.  Neither the Clark Fork nor Little Blackfoot Rivers have surface flow to the property.  The ponds vary from 1’ to 10’ in depth, averaging about 4’.  Groundwater feeds a narrow creek, which extends from the northeast pond to the western edge of the property.  The ponds and ditches have a fair amount of algae, depending on the season.

Several of the former concrete plant buildings and foundations remain at the site.  The site has scattered debris and a single area of approximately 100 cubic yards of lime. DHES sampling of the lime confirms that it does not contain hazardous materials, but it should be removed or isolated from the groundwater.  Physical site hazards also need to be removed, landscaped, or redesigned.  Several of the concrete structures are over 30’ high and will onsite and used as protective nesting areas or viewing towers.  Other foundations are at ground level and can be used as parking slabs.  The converted concrete structures will be eventually re-vegetated and vine covered to fit into the scenery.

COST/BENEFIT ANALYSIS

The primary benefits of this project will be the establishment of a functional and aesthetically pleasing wildlife/wetland area.  The project will also increase local commerce in a very poor community and eliminate potential environmental risks at a very low cost. Quantifying these economic benefits is difficult, but a principal tenet of the DNRC and the State of Montana is that a healthy environment is a key component of economic growth and citizen well being in the state.

The project will complete vehicle access, wildlife viewing towers, walking trails, and set the stage for a site marketing.  Site designs will incorporate resident and nonresident preferences for wildlife viewing, as reported by the University of Montana Institute for Tourism and Recreation (Research Report 38).  Following the findings of the Institute, the PowellCounty plan emphasizes the following:

• Providing bird-viewing opportunities for a defined “high-involvement” sector of the public, such as Audubon members.
• Emphasizing where to look for and how to identify migratory and resident birds. The project area is already inhabited by breeding osprey, ducks, and geese, and is within known bald eagle habitat.
• Providing facilities for the “low-involvement sector,” while maintaining non- or less-developed areas for more highly involved visitors.
• Developing low-involvement sectors within the sites.
• Developing self-guided, pedestrian tours.
• Providing both general and technical information.

Importantly, the Institute’s 2001 report states that wildlife viewing is the No. 1 attraction for out-of-state tourism.  RockyMountain wildlife viewing is growing faster than the population or general tourism. In Montana, attracting such visitors becomes doubly important, as two out of three visitors will return to nearby areas to hunt or fish, creating indirect benefits to the state.

While the area will not provide hunting opportunity it will provide significant habitat for the state waterfowl game animals. In 2002, Non-resident water hunters spent an estimated $12.6 million in Montana’s economy above and beyond the license fees according to Rob Brooks, the responsive management unit coordinator for the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks. An average waterfowl hunting trip (3.29 hunter days) contributed an additional $843 in spending; including $353 in transportation, $181 in food beverage and lodging, $181 in equipment and $188 in access, guides, fees and miscellaneous items.

This area of western Montana was found to be generally lacking in wildlife viewing opportunities and specifically lacking in the types of opportunities the Garrison Wetlands will provide. Traffic on I-90 at Garrison is calculated at 5,900 vehicles a day, with 1,260 of those commercial vehicles. Non-commercial trips per day equate to 139,200 a month; 696,000 during the five warmer months of the year; and 1,694,000 per year. A visitation rate of only one-tenth of one percent would suggest the Garrison Wetlands could attract 1,500 to 2,000 visitors a year. Actual can be significantly increased with effective marketing.

The town of Garrison, and PowellCounty, is one of the relatively depressed areas of the state.  Rural services and economic opportunities have been diminishing over the last 2 decades. Increases in gasoline, convenience store and restaurant sales can make a real difference in sales-tax revenues for these municipalities.  Increased tourism provides a direct benefit to rural residents.  Increased tourism also provides an indirect benefit to the state as a whole. In total, the benefits of the Garrison Wetlands Project are real and significant to the state, the county and the local community.

PROJECT ALTERNATIVES

Alternative 1: Complete removal of all site structures.

Completely removing all traces of the phosphate plant seemed a good impulse, but in the end it became obvious that it could easily triple or quadruple the cost of this final stage of demolition/rehabilitation. Most of the concrete structures are six- to 12-inches thick and reinforced with steel bar. In addition, the introduction of the extremely heavy machinery required for such removal was projected to create more ecological disruption through destruction of existing vegetation and soil compaction. This would have created more work in terms of vegetative rehabilitation and would have disturbed existing wildlife. This alternative is rejected as ecologically disruptive and prohibitively expensive.

Alternative 2: No Action

The no-action alternative assumes that prior remediation is sufficient.  While ground- and surface-water contamination has been greatly reduced wildlife, and wildlife viewing, will not become a significant attraction without additional efforts. The benefits of water better water quality, waterfowl habitat, and biodiversity would not be realized.  The no action alternative would preclude the creation of water features that assist in bringing back riparian plants, insects and fish species. Without these additions at the base of the food chain, it is doubtful that the project could sustain the avian community envisioned by the plan.

This alternative will preclude the opportunity to increase the natural resource and economic values at the site and it is rejected.

Alternative 3 – Strategic Redesign and Development

This alternative is designed to complete the necessary reclamation tasks and develop the site as an aesthetically pleasing wildlife viewing area.  The project will provide: A) Removal of limestone byproducts from the site; B) Improving waterfowl feeding and nesting habitat; C) Improve water quality, and D) Complete a new state tourism location. Most of the structures remaining on site will be retained, remodeled, and used for nesting or viewing towers.  An access road, parking, and walking trails will be improved to allow increased visitor use.  This alternative is the least costly and most implemental alternative, and is selected as the most appropriate remediation.

STAFFING AND ADMINISTRATION

Granted funds will be administered by the Powell County Planning Department, which will have the responsibility for disbursement of grant funds.  The county will contract for project management and engineering consultants to support the project by preparing planning documents for the project, overseeing, investigation and construction activities, and preparing a summary report.  PowellCounty has extensive experience in wetlands remediation and has overseen similar projects for the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and under the management of the US EPA Region VIII.  PowellCounty will coordinate the DEQ project approval and project management.

The use of subcontractors represents a significant portion of the scope of work.  All contractors will be selected in accordance with state laws governing the procurement of professional and/or construction services.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A.  Deeds, Easements, Rights-of-Way:  A conservation easement for access to, and public use, of the project property will be completed prior to starting this project.  The terms and content of such an easement have received verbal approval of the Powell County Commissioners and the current property owner.

B.  Permits:  All construction and regulatory permit application guidelines will be completed per MCA requirements.  All Montana DEQ construction requirements including MPDES and 404 permits will be completed upon notification of funding.  The 404 permit application is currently under county planning department review and will be completed prior to the construction phase.  All contractors will be selected in accordance with state laws governing the procurement of professional and/or construction services.

C.  Maps and Photos:  Clearly legible location maps (Figure 1) and site maps (Figure 2) have been included in this application.  Titles, scales, and north arrow are included on each map.    The location of proposed activities and construction is on Figure 2.

D.  Plans and Specifications:  Final plans and specifications are not yet available.  A conceptual design plan is included in this application as Figure 2 (Site Map)

STEP 4- SCOPE OF WORK

1.         GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

The primary goals for the proposed site remediation is to eliminate potential risks to the environment, enhance natural resources, and provide an appropriate site for the enjoyment of wildlife viewing by Montanans and out-of-state visitors.  The project development will allow vehicle access, wildlife viewing, and trail systems to be completed.

The primary benefits of this project will be the establishment of a functional wildlife/wetland area that is also aesthetically pleasing. The wetlands area will support both indigenous wildlife and migratory species, many of which are stressed by habitat loss.  Indirectly the healthy wildlife environment will also benefit the health of the community and state citizens.

The principal objectives for the project are:

1. Removal of surface debris, limestone waste, and physical hazards.
2. Conceptual design of trails, access, parking, habitat, viewing areas.
3. Engineering design of trails, access, parking, habitat, viewing areas.
4. Re-vegetation with appropriate plant species.
5. Trail reconstruction.
6. Road access and parking construction.
7. Project marketing and website development

2.         TASKS AND ACTIVITIES

The following tasks and activities apply to the principal objectives listed above.

1.         Removal of surface debris, limestone waste, and physical hazards.

Site construction activities for the preferred alternative for removing surface debris, waste and physical hazards, includes:

            Define and plan removal of surface debris and physical hazards

Define and plan lime waste removal

Remove all surface debris

Remove lime waste

2.         Conceptual design of trails, access, parking, habitat, viewing areas.

Conceptual design work will include meetings, discussions, and design conferences with a variety of public agencies and private interest groups.  The objective is to develop the most favorable conceptual design for habitat, trail, and viewing areas.  The trail design will account for the observation of avian behavior within the constraints of minimizing impacts to sensitive areas.  Design work will also be needed for information pamphlets, presentations at conservation meetings, and highway signs.  Specific tasks will include;

Design of trail system,

Design of migratory and non-migratory habitat,

Design of effective but unobtrusive viewing areas.

Design of nesting areas and towers

3.         Engineering design of habitat, trails, access, parking, habitat, viewing areas.

Engineering design will follow the conceptual designs developed by PowellCounty and the group efforts.   Engineering design will provide an effective and economic approach to completing the conceptual design elements, within the approved budget.   Tasks will include bid preparation, bid advertisement, analysis of bids, bid awards, and completing contracts.

4.         Re-vegetation of wetland and upland areas with appropriate plant species.

A re-vegetation plan will be drafted, with input from project partners and specialists in wildlife and avian habitats. The re-vegetation efforts will include volunteer seeding and weed control efforts, as well as equipment provided by PowellCounty.

5.         Trail reconstruction

Based on the final landscape planning, pedestrian (sand & gravel) trails will be created for self-guided tours of the wetland habitat.  Reconstruction activities will include construction of walking paths, sitting areas, professional scooping areas, and blinds for bird watching.  Reconstruction will follow engineering design and bid specifications.

6.         Road access and parking construction.

Gravel road access and parking areas will use existing access and structures within the engineering design specifications.  Road and parking construction will follow engineering bid packages, which will complement design with effective and economic construction to meet budget guidelines.   Construction tasks will follow specifications defined in bids and contract awards.

7.         Project marketing and website development

Marketing work will begin early in the project design phase.  Work with the public agencies and private interest groups (from the beginning of the project) will enhance the conceptual design of habitat, trail, and viewing areas.  A pictorial and information website will be developed to increase notice of the site and allow people to see the site progress.  The website will help market both locally and nationally the area though links with Montana tourism organizations, birding and wildlife organizations, local chamber of commerce and the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks. The website will

include printable maps of highways and trails, along with the pamphlets for self-guided tours and photographs of wildlife at the Garrison Wetlands Project. The website will also feature a section that will document the transition of the site from mineral development to reclaimed wetland, and citing the funding organizations and programs.  The website will also host an annual photography contest for shots taken at the site. Contest photos will add to the attractiveness of the site and help ensure that it is kept up to date.  Other marketing efforts will include information pamphlets, presentations at conservation meetings, and highway information signs to notify I-90 and Hwy 12 travelers.

Specific activities will include:

Website development,

Meetings with public agencies and private interest groups such as the Montana Wetlands Legacy, Ducks Unlimited, Montana FWP, Montana DNRC, and others

Work with Ducks Unlimited to develop biologic habitat.

Marketing to highway and tourist maps

3.         PROJECT SCHEDULE

The progress of this project depends on the award schedule of the grant.  All dates are defined in days from availability of the grant.  The project completion dates follow:

Task:    Removal of surface debris, limestone waste, and physical hazards.

Definition and planning              + 30 days

Lime waste Definition                            + 45 days

Remove all surface debris                     + 60 days

Remove lime waste                               + 90 days

Task:    Conceptual design of trails, access, parking, habitat, viewing areas.

Design of trail system                            + 60 days

Habitat Design                                      + 60 days

Viewing Area Design                            + 60 days

Nesting areas and towers                      + 60 days

Task:    Engineering design of trails, access, parking, habitat, viewing areas.

Advertising and letting bids                    + 90 days

Evaluate and award bids                       + 120 days

Engineering Design                                + 160 days

Task:    Re-vegetation with appropriate plant species.

Agency and Public Input                       + 120 days

Purchasing Bids                                    + 140 days

Organization Efforts                              + 140 days

Field Completion                                  + 180 days

Monitoring                                            + 360 days

Task:    Trail reconstruction.

Obtaining permits                                  +120 days

Advertising and letting bids                    +180 days

Evaluate and award bids                       +210 days

Construction                                         +270 days

Task:    Road access and parking construction.

Obtaining permits                                  +120 days

Advertising and letting bids                    +180 days

Evaluate and award bids                       +210 days

Construction                                         +270 days

Task:    Project marketing and website development

Website development                           +90 days

Conference Meetings                +180 days

Marketing                                             +360 days

MONITORING PLAN

Design and construction monitoring will be conducted throughout the project with milestone dates set for the draft design, final design, and prior to start of construction.

Environmental Monitoring:  Water samples will be collected after remediation and redevelopment actions to ensure that all the contamination is removed.

EQUIPMENT

No capital equipment will be purchased with this grant.  Disposable health and safety equipment and sampling supplies will be purchased to support site remediation activities.  All durable equipment required for sample collection and site construction activities will be rented or provided by site contractors.

STEP 5- PROJECT BUDGET

BUDGET JUSTIFICATION NARRATIVE:

Total Reclamation and Development Grants Program (RDGP) funding that is being requested is $212,950.  The cleanup, design, construction and associated costs estimated for this project reflect the actual costs that will be incurred.  Matching funds and services from PowellCounty and Outside Sources will total $107,100.  The total project budget is $327,050.  The following presents a brief explanation of key proposed budget items.

Salaries and wages requested under the RDGP include those for PowellCounty staff, MDEQ oversight, and legal documents review.  Oversight will include; review of fieldwork plans, field activities, drafts and final project reports.

Contracted construction expenses is broken down by task is as follows:

                             DIRECT CONSTRUCTION EXPENSES

Additional non-construction services will include; Habitat design, trail design, project management, waste removal, engineering design, road construction, trail construction, website development and marketing.

Applicant contributions will include PowellCounty time spent on grant administration, equipment hours, project planning, review of work plans, site permitting, applications, and final reports.  PowellCounty will provide backhoe and dump truck equipment for some of the soil, lime, waste, and physical hazards removal, as well as components of the trail and access construction.  PowellCounty has completed a conservation easement and right-of-way agreement with the current property owner that conveys full use for the intended conservation, and public access, purposes to the property.

Consulting fees include the preparation of fieldwork plan, the summary reports and the supervision of all construction activities.  Confirmation sampling is included in the analytical budget to confirm that all redevelopment objectives and activities meet Montana state regulations and guidelines.

PROJECT BUDGET SUMMARY

AND WAGES

$20,000

$ 2,500

$ 2,500

$ 25,000 

2.  FRINGE                BENEFITS

3.  CONTRACTED

      SERVICES

$186,000

$ 2,000

$ 97,500

$ 285,500 

4.  SUPPLIES AND  MATERIALS

$ 2,500

$ 500

$ 5,000

$ 8,000 

5.  COMMUNICATIONS

$  500

$ 500

$ 500

$ 1,500 

6.  TRAVEL

$ 2,500

$ 200

$ 1,300

$ 4,000

7.  RENT AND UTILITIES

$ 1,450

$ 1,300

$  300

$ 3,050 

8.  EQUIPMENT

9.  CONTINGUENCY

$ 27,900

     TOTAL $

$240,850

$ 6,100

$ 107,100

$ 354,950

 BUDGET DETAIL FORM

USDA, CREP,DU

TOTAL

1.  SALARIES

     AND WAGES

Project Planning

Project Management

Administrative Tasks

10,000

5,000

5,000

1500

500

500

500

1000

1000

12,000

6,500

6,500

TOTAL SALARIES AND WAGES $

$ 20,000

$ 2,500

$ 2,500

$ 25,000

1. 2.      FRINGE

BENEFITS

TOTAL FRINGE BENEFITS $

3.  CONTRACTED

      SERVICES

Project Management

Trail Design

Waste Removal

Habitat Construction

Road Construction

Trail Construction

Nesting/View Towers

Seed/Weed

Website Development

Marketing

44000

12000

8000

23000

40000

11000

23000

2500

10000

12500

1000

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1000

5000

12000

6000

15000

25000

10000

3000

2000

13000

6500

$50,000

$24,000

$14,000

$38,000

$65,000

$21,000

$26,000

$  4,500

$23,000

$20,000

TOTAL CONTRACTED SERVICES $

186,000

2,000

97,500

$ 285,500

BUDGET DETAIL FORM (cont.)

USDA, CREP,DU

TOTAL

4.  SUPPLIES

     AND MATERIALS

Health/Safety

Field Work Supplies

Trail Materials

Sampling Supplies

200

300

1000

1000

—

100

200

200

300

1200

2800

700

500

1600

4000

1900

TOTAL SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS  $

$2,500

$ 500

$ 5,000

$ 8,0005.  COMMUNICATIONS   

Phone

Fax

Postage

250

50

200

250

—

250

200

100

200

700

150

650

TOTAL COMMUNICATIONS  $

$  500

$  500

$  500

$ 1,500 

6.  TRAVEL

Mileage

Per Diem

Hotel

1200

—

1300

—

200

—

300

500

500

1500

700

1800

TOTAL TRAVEL  $

$ 2,500

$  200

$ 1,300

$ 4,000

BUDGET DETAIL FORM (cont.)

Project Office Space

Field Facilities

Utilities

Project Generator

—

1200

—

250

1200

—

100

—

—

—

50

250

1200

1200

150

500

TOTAL RENT AND UTILITIES  $

$ 1,450

$ 1,300

$  300

$ 3,0508.  EQUIPMENT   

TOTAL EQUIPMENT  $

9.  MISCELLANEOUS

TOTAL MISCELLANEOUS  $

ALL CATEGORIES GRAND TOTAL  $

$ 212,950 $ 7,000 $ 107,100$327,050

STEP 6- PUBLIC BENEFITS RANKING CRITERIA

Applicant Name:           Powell County

Project Title:                 Garrison Wetlands Project

The project develops and ensures the quality of natural resources: This project is designed to restore wetland habitat in the upper Clark Fork basin, where historical mine development has reduced the acreage of available wetlands. Removal of plant debris and process material at the site will enhance the wetlands quality onsite. Protective measures will ensure the long-term quality of surface soils and groundwater in the surrounding areas. Wetland plant restoration will enhance downstream waters.

The project conserves natural resources:    Project ponds and wetlands area will conserve water and wildlife resources in the Clark Fork valley. Removal of stored limestone products will enhance the protection of soils, groundwater, and surface waters of the area. Restoration of this wetland will increase migratory habitat and state wetlands.

The project protects the public health, safety, and welfare of Montanans:  Reclamation and redevelopment efforts at the Garrison Wetlands will protect the public health, safety, and welfare of western Montana residents.  Removal of unsafe buildings, process material and site debris will protect, and enhance the health, safety and welfare of Montana visitors.  The improved water quality to the Montana groundwater and surface waters of the Clark ForkRiver will benefit all Montanans.

Montanans will directly benefit from the project:  Improved wildlife visitation in this area will increase out-of-state visits to the state, producing a direct benefit to state wildlife coffers. In addition, the community of Garrison, and PowellCounty in general,  will enjoy increases in sales tax revenue from the visits made possible by this project. Nearby residents will have employment opportunities from redevelopment, and the availability of clean groundwater and surface water.  Residents will benefit from the improved water quality in the Clark ForkRiver.

Montanans will indirectly benefit from the project:

Even though Montana has one of the highest percentage of birding participation in the nation (44 percent of Montana residents watch birds, compared to an average of 22 percent in the nation), according to the 2001 National and State Economics of Wildlife Watching. This area of the state was found to be deficient in wildlife viewing areas by the University of Montana study. Improved wildlife visitation in this area will increase out-of-state visits to the state, producing a desirable economic benefit for the entire state.

The project benefits are certain and long-term:  There are few adverse impacts to wildlife that are better documented than wetland habitat loss. The certain long-term benefits for residents of PowellCounty and all of Montana is the creation of a permanently protected area that helps to ensure the survival of both game and high-visibility predator species that will utilize the project site.

STEP 7- NEED AND URGENCY NARRATIVE AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Applicant:         Powell County

Project Title:     Garrison Wetlands Project

Need for the project:

Montana is believed to have lost 27 percent of the wetland habitat that existed prior to the 1800’s. This situation is exacerbated in the mining development areas along the Clark Fork valley. Rehabilitation of this area is imperative to creating a habitat area that will be employed by both game and high-visibility predator species and creating an area available to both Montanans and out-of-state visitors. Removal of the last remaining limestone process material will ensure downstream water quality.  Montana has one of the highest percentage of birding participation in the nation. Creating this wildlife viewing area serves the state’s populace and bolsters the state economy.

Immediacy of the need, cause and how long has it existed:

Montana has 56 rare wetland-dependent species (41 animal and 15 plant), many of which are eligible for listing as Threatened or Endangered under the 1972 Endangered Species Act. While the Garrison Wetlands Project does not envision reintroduction of threatened or endangered species, it is generally agreed that providing more wetland habitat will help ensure thriving communities of these animals and plants. The structures that will be left overseeing ponds with small fish should create an excellent feeding area for bald eagles, for instance. Western Montana is extremely lacking in wildlife viewing areas as evidenced in a 1995 study by the University of Montana Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research.

Impact of a “no action” alternative:  Indications are that the wetland habitat would not be restored to the same degree as desired, reducing the number of individual animals and species that might otherwise inhabit the site. The area would likely have to be secured, preventing human visitation. There would be likely leaching of limestone byproducts into the soils at a temporary repository, resulting in a degradation of stream quality.

Severity of the problem and the extent of the area involved:  The need to mitigate ongoing wetlands habitat loss has been a principal environmental focus of the last three national administrations, but wetland loss has largely continued unabated. Wetland habitat in the Clark Fork valley, location of the nation’s largest Superfund site, has been severely impacted by mineral development. Full restoration of wetland habitat in the valley will probably not occur without municipal interest in its development, such as exists for the Garrison Junction Wildlife Viewing Area.

Number and type of natural resources affected:  The site would benefit game and non-game, avian and non-avian species and could benefit some species eligible for inclusion under the Endangered Species Act. In addition, water quality would be protected by development of the wetland.

STEP 8- PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION CAPABILITY RANKING

Applicant Name:           PowellCounty

Project Title:                 Garrison Wetlands Project

Applicant ability to implement the project: 

PowellCounty is a legally incorporated entity in the State of Montana, pursuant to Section 2-7-504, MCA.  As such, PowellCounty has the legal jurisdiction and authority to finance, operate and maintain community property and services.

Applicant’s past record of performance: 

PowellCounty has completed one, and is currently managing two projects partially funding by the DNRC.  The county has recently completed a reclamation program at the historic Charter Oaks Mine, is working on remediation at the former Ontario Mine and the former Milwaukee Roundhouse.  PowellCounty has established good working relations with the State of Montana in the implementation and administration of these and other projects.

Skills, qualifications, and experience of the project manager, key personnel, and contractors:

The county has contracted for initial consulting services for grant writing, document preparations, and project management.  Mr. Jed Thomas (Sage Resources) has extensive experience in investigation, evaluation, and remediation of mine waste sites in Montana and the western U.S.  Sage Resources has performed similar projects in Montana for the DEQ on railroad and petroleum projects.  Mr. Jed Thomas will also coordinate with DNRC staff and serve as the project liaison.

The use of subcontractors represents a large portion of the scope of work (drilling, analytical, waste disposal).  All contractors will be selected in accordance with state laws governing the procurement of professional and/or construction services.

STEP 9- ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST

Project Title:                 Garrison Wetlands Project

Applicant Name:           PowellCounty

Address:                       409 Milwaukee Road, Deer Lodge, MT59722

Preparer:                      Ron Hanson                 Phone   (406) 846-3680

POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

List all groups or agencies contacted and the contact person’s phone number:

Tom Hinz: Montana Wetlands Legacy, Bozeman, MT  (406) 444-3248

Randy Renner: Ducks Unlimited, Bismarck, ND, (701) 355-3526

Glenn Patrick:  USDA FSA, CREP Program, Bozeman, MT  (406) 587-6880

Jeffrey Combs: Wetlands Reserve Program, Bozeman, MT (406) 587-6795

Lawrence Urban: MDT Wetlands Program (406) 444-6224

Susan Johnson:  Deer Lodge Conservation District (406) 846-1703

David Ziak:  Wildlife Management Program, Warm Springs, MT (406) 693-7395

STEP 10 – LIABLE PARTY DETERMINATION

Applicant Name:           PowellCounty

Project Title:                 Garrison Wetlands Project

Legal description of the site:  SE/NE/NW ¼ Sec 24, T9N, R10W, Latitude 46^o 31’27”, Longitude 112^o 47’54”, MPM, Powell County Montana

Name of the current owner:  PowellCounty has been granted a conservation easement on the property from Mr. Gunter, Garrison, Montana

Dates of damage:  1963 to 1976

Who was the owner/operator at the time of damage?  Rocky Mountain Phosphate

Subsequent owners/operators:  Mr. Gunter.

Taxpayer over the past 10 years: Mr. Gunter.

Landowner statement regards pending nuisance action:  Not Applicable

Is the project now, or has it ever been, permitted, licensed, or regulated by federal, state, or local rules, regulations, or statues?

We know of no permits issued in connection with the site.  The current project is regulated under the provisions of the Montana Comprehensive, Environmental Cleanup and Responsibility Act (CECRA).

STEP 11- CRUCIAL STATE NEED DOCUMENTATION

Project Title:                 Garrison Wetlands Project

Applicant Name:           PowellCounty

The University of Montana Institute for Tourism and Recreation has identified this area of western Montana as general lacking in wildlife watching areas, and specifically lacking in the opportunities provided at the Garrison Wetlands Project.

Potential Threat to Public Health and Safety:

Limestone processing byproducts, now only temporarily contained, pose a potential danger to downstream water quality. In addition, the site itself is a physical hazard to residents in and near the Garrison Junction.

Validity of the Problem or Need

Location of wildlife viewing in this area should be a priority for the state’s wildlife-watching tourism industry, which brings in $350 million annually to the state’s economy and supports 10,302 jobs, according to a 2001 US Fish & Wildlife survey.

Consequences of No Action or Delayed Reaction:

No action could mean the permanent loss of vital community momentum in rehabilitating the area as a wetland. This project has a real and vital chance of becoming a flagship for such wetland rehabilitation in the Clark ForkValley. Without any action, this area would likely have to be fenced and secured to prevent physical harm from befalling any human visitation.

Severity of the Problem or Need:

Of Montana’s estimated original 1,147,000 acres of wetlands only 840,300 acres still exist, a net loss of 27 percent according to EPA data. The state has 56 rare wetland-dependent species, such as whooping crane, the Coeur D’Alene salamander and the bald eagle.  Wetlands in the Clark ForkValley have been diminished by mineral development.

Number of people Affected:

Wildlife viewing is the third most popular outdoor activity in Montana.  A 2001 U.S. Fish & Wildlife 2001 study indicated that over 52 percent of the Montana population participating in birding activities. Over 1.6 million non-commercial trips occur on I-90 (at Garrison), a visitation rate of 00.1% would equate to over 1,600 annual visitors to the Wetlands. Actual can be significantly increased with effective marketing.

Agency and Public Support for the Project:

The following agencies and public interest groups have all expressed support for this project:

PowellCounty Commissioners, Montana Wetland Legacy, Ducks Unlimited

USDA FSA CREP Program, Wetlands Reserve Program, Bozeman, MT

Montana Department of Transportation: Wetlands Program

Deer Lodge Conservation District, Wildlife Management Program, Warm Springs, MT

Project’s Stated Objective Will Meet Need:

This project area has already been re-inhabited by many wetland species, both animal and plant. Consulting wetland biologists agree that the proposed improvements will speed recovery of the area and speed the reintroduction of additional wetland species.

Economic impact of wildlife viewing areas nationwide show dramatic gains:

• The Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in Texas added $14 million to the economy of local communities, in 1993 visitors spent over $347 per person.

• Tourist spend $10-17 million/year near the RamseyCanyon and San Pedro River Basin of Arizona.  This generates $17-$28 million in local economic activity, and 350-590 jobs.

• Sandhill crane viewing areas in Nebraska generate $40 million/year for local economies.

Wildlife viewing (UM, 2001) is the No. 1 attraction for out-of-state tourism.  RockyMountain wildlife viewing is growing faster than the population or general tourism.

In Montana, attracting such visitors becomes doubly important, as two out of three visitors will return to nearby areas to hunt or fish, creating indirect benefits to the state.

The Garrison project will provide significant habitat for the state waterfowl. In 2002, non-resident water hunters spent an estimated $12.6 million in addition to license fees. Average local waterfowl trips (3.29 hunter days) contributed an additional $843.

Traffic on I-90 at Garrison is calculated at 5,900 vehicles a day. Non-commercial trips per day equate to 139,200 a month; 696,000 during the five warmer months of the year; and 1,694,000 per year. A visitation rate of only one-tenth of one percent would suggest the Garrison Wetlands could attract 1,500 to 2,000 visitors a year. Effective marketing should significantly increase this percentage.

The town of Garrison, and PowellCounty, is one of the relatively depressed areas of the state.  Rural services and economic opportunities have been diminishing over the last 2 decades. Increases in gasoline, convenience store and restaurant sales can make a real difference in sales-tax revenues for these municipalities.  Increased tourism provides a direct benefit to rural residents.

The benefits of the Garrison Wetlands Project are real and significant to the state, the county and the local community.

STEP 12 – APPLICATION CHECKLIST

Applicant Name: ____________________________________________________

Project Title:______________________________________________________

This checklist identifies the main sections that must be addressed in your application.  Refer to the specific section and subsections for information or forms required.  Applicants must complete this checklist to ensure that the submitted application is complete.

r Step 1 ‑ Grant Application Summary

r Step 2 ‑ Project Abstract

r Step 3 ‑ Technical Description and Alternative Analysis

r Problem History

r Cost/Benefit Analysis

r Project Alternatives

r Staffing and Administration

r Additional Information

r Step 4 ‑ Scope of Work

r Goals and Objectives

r Tasks or Activities

r Project Schedule

r Monitoring Plan

r Equipment

r Step 5 ‑ Budget

r Budget Justification Narrative

r Budget Summary Form

r Budget Detail Form

r Step 6 ‑ Public Benefits (Form and Narrative)

r Step 7 ‑ Need and Urgency (Narrative and Supporting Documents)

r Step 8 ‑ Project Management and Organization Capability (Narrative)

r Step 11 ‑ Crucial State Need Documentation (Narrative/Supporting Documents)

r Step 12 ‑ Application Checklist for Completeness