UDOT, First to Implement Executive Order 13112

A Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) Quality Improvement Team was formed to determine appropriate strategies to implement the Executive Order after the September 19, 1999 FHWA guidance was given. The team consisted of individuals from the FHWA and UDOT design, construction, maintenance and environmental divisions. The team agreed that the invasive species to be addressed will include those plant species on the State noxious weed list plus those on each County noxious weed list.

UDOT has included invasive species in the NEPA decision-making process. Potential impacts are disclosed in environmental documentation and appropriate Best Management Practices (BMPs) are listed as mitigation commitments for all projects that have potential to spread or introduce listed weeds. These commitments are brought forward in the project development process and included in project plans, specifications and quantity estimates. Early in the project development process, the UDOT and other weed experts are contacted in order to determine the potential for project-related activities to introduce or spread invasive species.

The Team defined the following BMPs that will minimize the introduction and spread of listed noxious weed species:

1. During the concept phase, determine impacts that would spread noxious weeds.
2. Include a Special Provision on "Invasive Weed Control" when appropriate.
3. The key requirements of the Special Provision include:
   1. clean all earthmoving equipment of mud and seed residue before entering.
   2. Minimize disturbance of areas known to be infested with noxious weeds.
   3. Minimize soil disturbance within right-of-way.
   4. Monitor and control disturbed areas and soil stockpiles for weed growth.
   5. Revegetate bare soils as soon as disturbance is not necessary.
   6. Control weeds with pre-emergent, selective and nonselective herbicides.
   7. Include payment for equipment cleaning under bid item for mobilization.
   8. Pay for Control of weeds with herbicides as a separate bid item.

UDOT has enhanced training for staff to understand the Executive Order, and current invasive species problems, and how to incorporate BMPs.