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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-16-2020 IPM Agenda,m, SE HOME OF PELICAN ISLAND INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT SUB -COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA TUESDAY, JUNE 16TH, 2020 — 3:00 P.M. COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1225 MAIN STREET, SEBASTIAN, FL I. CALL TO ORDER II. ROLL CALL III. ANNOUNCEMENTS Item A. Schedule Conflict for the 23i° meeting IV. PUBLIC INPUT v. NEW BUSINESS Item A. Review of the Third IPM Plan Draft Item B. Chemical Control Methodology Discussion VI. OLD BUSINESS VII. SUB -COMMITTEE MEMBER MATTERS VIII. STAFF MATTERS IX. ITEMS FOR NEXT AGENDA X. ADJOURNMENT ANY PERSON WHO DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE ON THE ABOVE MATTERS, WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS AND MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH APPEAL IS TO BE HEARD. SAID APPEAL MUST BE FILED WITH THE CITY CLERICS OFFICE WITHIN TEN DAYS OF THE DATE OFAC710N. (286.0105F.S). IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA), ANYONE WHO NEEDS SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THIS MEETING SHOULD CONTACT THE CITYS ADA COORDINATOR AT (907)-588-5330 AT LEAST d8 HOURS PRIOR TO THIS MEETING.TWO OR MORE ELECTED OFFICIALS MAYBE INATTENDANCE. 0 r 4'( HOME OF PELICAN ISLAND Board Meetinq Date Aqenda Item Title Recommendation Backqround: IPM SUB -COMMITTEE AGENDA TRANSMITTAL FORM June 16th, 2020 V. NEW BUSINESS Item A. Review of the Third IPM Plan Draft Submitted for Committee Member review and discussion If Aqenda Item Requires Expenditure of Funds: Total Cost: n/a Attachments: Revised Third Draft of IPM Plan TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION Scope IPM Sub -Committee IPM Coordinator IPM Plan Goals IPM Program Community IPM Cycle Standard Operating Procedures II. ATHLETIC PARKS Overview Common Pests Non -Chemical Methods III. ACTIVE PARKS Overview Common Pests Non -Chemical Methods IV. PASSIVE PARKS Overview Common Pests Non -Chemical Methods Integrated Pest Management Plan 3 5 5 6 6 6 8 10 12 12 12 14 14 14 16 16 16 V. FURTHER NON -CHEMICAL RECOMENDATIONS Method Recommendations 18 VI. CHEMICAL METHODOLOGY The Last IPM Tool 19 Frequency 19 VII. DATA MANAGEMENT Data Recording & Collection 21 Annual Report 21 City of Sebastian Page 1 Integrated Pest Management Plan VIII. APPENDIX Appendix A: R-00-00 00 Appendix B: Contractor Agreement 00 Appendix C: City Fertilizer Ordinance 00 Appendix D: Field Inspection Data Sheet 00 Appendix E: Chemical Application Record Sheet 00 Appendix F: Wavier Form for Restricted Chemicals 00 Appendix G: Chemical Labels and SDS Sheets 00 Appendix H: Glossary of Terms 00 INDEX OF FIGURES Figure 1: Map of the City Parks and Properties 4 Figure 2: Diagram of the Community IPM Cycle 9 Figure 3: Park Classification 10 Figure 4: Chemical Characteristics Spreadsheet 20 City of Sebastian Page 2 Integrated Pest Management Plan I. INTRODUCTION Scope The City of Sebastian's Leisure Services Department is the steward of over 300 acres of land at more than 25 locations, including community parks, city grounds, street medians, pathways, and sports facilities. Large park areas comprise 280 acres of the properties. Within the City's parks there are: 10 tennis courts, 11 playgrounds, 8 pickle ball courts, 4 basketball courts, 3 football/soccer fields, 5 baseball/softball fields, 3 volleyball courts, a dog park, a splash pad, and a skate park. This plan will not cover any of the ponds, canals, and ditches within these properties. These features are managed collectively by the City's Stormwater Department and will be addressed with a separate IPM Plan. The park lands offer a large array of recreation and enrichment opportunities for people of all ages. The City's Municipal Cemetery is managed by the Public Facilities Department. The 11 acre property consists primarily of sodded groundcover and is subject to frequent foot traffic, beyond its roads and paths. Therefore, for the purposes of controlling pests on the property, the cemetery will be included into the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan as a part of the City parks and properties (Figure 1). The Leisure Services and Public Facilities Departments are charged with maintaining these diverse landscapes in a safe, attractive, healthy, and useful condition. These properties represent a major component of the City's capital assets and the City recognizes its responsibility to its employees, park users, and the general public, and seeks to employ the highest professional standards in the performance of its duties. To best manage pests on City properties, City staff and contractors will continue utilizing the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) through the implementation of an IPM Plan. City of Sebastian Page 3 Integrated Pest Management Plan IPM Sub -Committee In February of 2020, the IPM Sub -Committee was formed to assist City staff in the development of an Integrated Pest Management Plan for the City of Sebastian's parks and properties. The sub -committee is to be comprised of the Leisure Services Director, IPM Coordinator, three Natural Resource Board Members, and two local scientific consultants. The role of the IPM Sub -Committee is to assist in the development of a cohesive IPM Plan, advise on pest management issues, and evaluate the City's progress towards the goals of the IPM Plan. The Sub -Committee will review and approve the annual IPM report before it is presented to City Council. As part of the annual review, Sub - Committee Members will evaluate the current techniques and products to ensure they are based on the best available technologies and scientific information available. Recommendations will be made regarding changes to the annual reporting process and the IPM Plan document. In the development of the initial IPM Plan, the IPM Sub -Committee will meet weekly. Following adoption of the final IPM Plan by City Council, the committee will meet annually, unless more frequent meetings are needed, as determined by staff. All IPM Sub -Committee meetings will be held in compliance with Florida's Sunshine Laws, with public notice, posted agenda, and minutes taken by a recording secretary. The IPM Coordinator will lead the creation and implementation of the IPM Plan, which will apply to the City's pest management activities on all of its parks and properties. The IPM Coordinator's responsibilities, will also include the following: ■ Serve as liaison to IPM Sub -Committee ■ Monitor that City staff are adhering to the IPM Plan Standard Operating Procedures ■ Maintenance of accurate records on IPM implementation and use ■ Keep records of staff training in Green Business Best Management Practices and staff pesticide applicator certification ■ Assure the inclusion of City IPM policies and practices in any applicable third party contracts or purchase orders for pest management ■ Implement outreach efforts and maintain City's IPM Website. The IPM Coordinator will prepare an annual report of the City's IPM activities, which will be reviewed each March, by the IPM Sub -Committee and Leisure Services Director in an effort to assess the effectiveness of pest control methods, feasibility of new methods and technologies, and decide whether revision of the IPM Plan is required. City of Sebastian Page 5 Integrated Pest Management Plan IPM Plan For the purposes of this plan, a pest may be any plant (weed), vertebrate (bird, rodent, or other mammal), invertebrate (insect, tick, mite, or snail), nematode, or pathogen (bacteria, virus, or fungus), which may cause disease, inflict damage, or out -compete the more desirable species for an area. In addition, a pest may be aesthetically undesired, or threaten to impact human/animal health. The City adopts the following IPM definition as established by the City's IPM Sub -Committee: "To promote the most sustainable pest management methods, based on planning and prevention; which aim to minimize risks to human and environmental health through the limited use of chemicals, while also remaining economically feasible." ■ Protect environmental quality by reducing the amount of pollutants entering surface and ground water and minimizing effects on native plants, animals and habitats ■ Ensure effective, economic pest management on City property, while minimizing health risks to the public, City staff, and the environment ■ Promote the transparency of the City's pest management activities ■ Increase public awareness of IPM methods and benefits IPM Program IPM Policy. The IPM plan, as well as future modifications or amendments will be reviewed and voted on by the IPM Sub -Committee and presented to City Council for final approval. The plan will then be incorporated as City policy through the adoption of Resolution R-00-00 by City Council (Appendix A). IPM Program Coordination. The Leisure Services Director and the IPM Coordinator are responsible for coordinating, tracking, and reporting the implementation of the City's IPM Program. Tracking Pesticide Use. City Staff and Contractors conducting pest management activities within City parks and properties are required to record thorough field data. The IPM Coordinator is responsible for maintaining accurate records of pesticide use and non -chemical methods utilized that are accessible for reference. All records will be retained for 1 year and stored on the City's Laser fiche system indefinitely. City of Sebastian Page 6 Integrated Pest Management Plan Staff Training. All City employees who, within the scope of their duties, apply or use pesticides will be trained on the City's IPM Policies as well as proper chemical storage and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). An certification course on Green Business Best Management Practices will be provided through partnership with the University of Florida Indian River County Extension Office as needed. The training sessions are coordinated by the Human Resources Director, who will track employees' attendance and submit to IPM Coordinator to ensure all City field staff hold an active certification. Licensed Applicators. At all times a minimum of 2 City staff members must be state certified pesticide applicators. The Human Resources Director and IPM Coordinator will keep a copy of all staff certifications on file. Information Resources for Staff. The IPM coordinator will act as a resource for City staff to help identify new pests and pest related concerns, and to assist in determining the best course of action consistent with the established IPM SOPS. The IPM Coordinator will also seek out and provide access to expert resources when needed. Public Outreach. Public outreach efforts will include distribution of information, either created internally, or obtained through partnership with local and state government agencies. The IPM Coordinator will coordinate and keep records of the following: • A City webpage where the public may obtain information on IPM techniques, view the City's IPM Plan, annual IPM reports, IPM Sub -Committee minutes, and pest management treatment records. • The City's efforts to promote the reduction of urban pesticide use through social media, the City's website, print and television media. • The City's outreach to pest control operators (PCO's) and landscapers. • Distribution of IPM information and resources at public outreach and community events. • IPM information distributed to residents through the "New Homeowner Folders" during the final planning and zoning inspection. • Updates and status reports following the annual report and as requested by City officials. Contract Provisions. The Procurement Coordinator will review contract provisions and/or amendment(s) to agreements that provide pest management services within city maintained parks, properties and facilities covered under this IPM Plan. All such contractors shall be required to review and sign the "contractor agreement" (Appendix B). Contract work will be monitored to ensure that City IPM policies and practices are adhered to by all contractors performing pest management work. Regulatory Reporting. The IPM Coordinator will handle reporting to regulatory agencies, which credit the adoption of an IPM Plan as a Best Management Practice (BMP). City of Sebastian Page 7 Integrated Pest Management Plan • Incorporate the IPM Plan into the NPDES MS4 Cycle 4, Year 2 Annual Report (September, 2022) and the Cycle 5 NOI (September, 2024) as a new BMP for Element 6: Pollution Prevention/ Good Housekeeping. • Add as new project and update through the statewide Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) annual report on water quality projects. • Add as new activity and provide update to the Indian River Lagoon Council for the Indian River Lagoon Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) annual report on lagoon -related accomplishments. Community IPM Cycle This established cycle (Figure 2) will serve as the guideline for IPM Plan development and is based on planning and prevention, with the use of chemicals as the last resort for pest control. 1. Inspection and Monitoring: Staff routinely scouts the landscapes and buildings to locate pests. Pest populations are monitored by visual checks and traps. 2. Identification: Pests must be identified to the exact species. Life history attributes are to be known for each species. This step is key to effective treatment. 3. Planning: The focus is on prevention- what it takes to keep pests out. Determine what action is needed and whether a threshold has been crossed. Proper techniques and timing are for required management. 4. Implement Strategy: All pest management strategies are classified as biological, cultural, mechanical, or chemical. All methods are combined to maintain pests at acceptable thresholds. • Biological Control: enhances natural enemy populations by creating habitat or adding populations • Cultural Control: Disrupts the pest's environment by removing pest attractants or utilizing pest resistant variety of desired species • Mechanical: Creates physical barrier to pest entry • Chemical Control: the last tool in the IPM toolbox, the goal is evaluate costs and benefits to choose the least -toxic and most feasible option available that will do the job. 5. Record Keeping: Accurate record keeping is essential to a successful IPM program. Data must be kept on control methods implemented, chemical usage by staff, and purchase orders. Determine if control methods were effective by knowing what has changed through trap counts and observation. 6. Evaluate Effectiveness: Document if the treatments met expectations. Have all actions been in compliance with the City's IPM Standard Operating Procedures (SOPS)? Assess what was learned and determine whether the plan needs revised. City of Sebastian Page 8 Integrated Pest Management Plan Standard Operating Procedures When selecting and implementing a pest management strategy, from this plan, the following will be considered: Site Factors. Use and function of the landscape. • Considering the use and function of the landscape, parks are divided into three functional categories (Figure 3) in which the action threshold and methods are decided: ➢ Passive: neighborhood parks which can more likely be maintained with a natural approach. Some of these parks have playgrounds, which will need to be assessed regularly. ➢ Active: do not contain Bermuda turf, and receive the most activity on a daily basis. They need to be treated proactively, due to the number of park patrons on a daily basis and the nature of the activities that take place. ➢ Athletic: turf grass must be maintained to a higher standard to ensure the playability and safety of the participants. Proactive treatments are necessary in order to provide the standard of care that is required. • Erosion and runoff potential of site • Presence of surface water Figure 3: Parks and Properties by Classification Easy Street Park Riverview Park Filbert Park Schumann Park Bryant Park Hardee Park Periwinkle Park Friendship Park Cheltenham Park Bark Park Yacht Club Pickleball Complex Community Center Barber St. Common Areas Kildaire Park Cemetery Historical Park George Street Park Blossom Park Garden Club Park Main St. Boat Ramp Barber Street Complex Stormwater Park Friendship Park Field City of Sebastian Page 10 Integrated Pest Management Plan Health and Safety Concerns. Potential effects on City staff and park visitors. • Toxicological properties and potential health effects of materials or methods • Equipment operation safety issues • Staff safety and injury concerns Environmental Considerations. Protection of native plants, animals and pollinators. • Consider toxicity or potential harm caused by the method to non -target organisms and habitat. • Potential for bioaccumulation of materials within soils and groundwater • Know if there is potential for negative effects from any pest control method or lack thereof on any federally or state protected species that may be in the area • Be aware of any nesting birds in the area and potential affects the method may cause • Understand the effects the method may have on pollinators • The effects of reduced control of invasive plants or pests to native biodiversity. Costs. Both short and long term costs, as they relate to: • Costs of the material or method • Application and labor costs • Effectiveness and duration of effects on pest populations • Overall feasibility Product Characteristics. Specific product features • Possible residual effect and decomposition products • Volatility and flammability • Product formulation, recommended dilution and package size • Leachability and solubility • Equipment cleaning consideration before and after use • Potential synergistic effects of pesticide combinations Other Factors. Additional factors relevant to the selection • Special equipment or storage required for method • Method of delivery • Chemical application must adhere to the standards of the City's Fertilizer Ordinance Ch.50 Sec.50-5 (Appendix C) • How all criteria may be affected by weather conditions • Previous pesticide applications on site and interval between treatments • Chemical application set -backs from slopes along waterways • Possibility of pest resistance City of Sebastian Page 11 Integrated Pest Management Plan II. Athletic Parks Overview At approximately 25 acres, athletic parks are the smallest size -wise of the City's park classifications. However, these parks arguably hold the most importance for its visitors and the community. The City's athletic parks host hundreds of sporting events each year. Athletic facilities play a major role in the physical, mental, and social well-being of all age groups. Youth are provided the opportunities to improve their confidence, self- esteem, and mental alertness. Adults are given a chance to become more physically active and socialize. Our athletic facilities promote a sense of community and prove safe spaces for our park patrons. Friendship Park and the Barber Street Sports Complex are the only parks classified as "athletic parks." On athletic fields, Bermuda Turf is the dominant groundcover and it must be maintained to a higher standard than other parks and public areas to ensure the playability and safety of the participants. Proactive pest treatments are necessary in order to provide the standard of care that is required. Therefore, the tolerance threshold for pest activity, before action is taken is considered low. Common Pests Bermuda Turf is associated with its own unique assortment of animal and plant pests. These include, but are not limited to: • Insects: Fire Ants, Sod Webworms, Mole Crickets, Japanese Beetle Grubs, Cut Worms • Vertebrates: Mice, Moles • Weeds: Broadleaf Weeds, Signal Grass, Goose Grass, Crab Grass, Dollar Weed, Pennywort, Torpedo Grass, Sedges Non -Chemical Methods Maintaining the vigor and health of a groundcover is the focus to preventing damage from insects, weeds, and disease. Understanding the biological needs and growth of Bermuda Turf groundcover is essential to reducing the use of chemical pest control methods. In order to prevent pests, the following cultural and mechanical methods will be conducted routinely as part of standard proactive park maintenance procedures within the City's athletic parks: • Maintain healthy soils. Florida soils are very sandy and well -drained. Amending with organic material and microorganisms can increase water -holding capacity and reduce the need for fertilizers. Seasonal testing of pH and nutrient levels are integral to making the best decisions regarding soil management. City of Sebastian Page 12 Integrated Pest Management Plan • Irrigate uniformly and efficiently. Maintain efficient irrigation equipment and schedule irrigation in correlation with weather conditions and temporal requirements of the groundcover. Water should be uniformly distributed. Conduct regular water audits to ensure systems are not leaking and the pressure, alignment, and distribution of the heads are correct. • Fertilize properly. Annual testing of the soil should be conducted to ensure that the proper nutrients are being added. The addition of micro -nutrients at the appropriate time of the year will enhance the root system. Fertilization activities must be in compliance with City Ordinance Ch.50 Sec.50-5 (Appendix C) • Aerate regularly. Compacted soils can inhibit water, air, and nutrient infiltration. Compacted soil also is more susceptible to weed invasion. Aeration of ground covered area receiving the most traffic creates pores in the root zone for air, water, and nutrient uptake that facilitate root growth. Often aeration is combined with a compost top dressing for maximum results. • Mow at correct height. Mowing at the incorrect height for the groundcover species can thin out and starve the grass, or encourage the build-up of thatch. Bermuda Turf is to be mowed at 1 " height. Mowing is conducted often enough so that no more than 1/3 of the leaf height is cut. • Always mow with sharp blades. Dull mower blades cause uneven cutting and weaken the grass blades. The City owns its own blade sharpener and all mowing blades are sharpened as needed. • Tool Sanitation. Pests can easily spread among sites by hitchhiking on un - sanitized lawn equipment. Cleaning the mower and all landscape tools between areas minimizes pest transport. In addition, separate mowers are used for Bermuda Turf than is used on the St. Augustine common areas. • Verticutting. Thatch buildup can impede air and water infiltration, much like compaction. Verticutting allows the grass to absorb nutrients and moisture more efficiently by ensuring that all the moisture is absorbed by the fresh, young blades of grass instead of the thatch. • Over Seeding. The appearance and/or removal of pests as well as extensive drought conditions often leave open patches of disturbed soil behind, which are favored habitat for many weeds. Broadcasting Rye Grass seeds over Bermuda Turf will fill in these areas and prevent weed infiltration, while enhancing the greenness and overall aesthetics of turf areas. • Mulching. To prevent weeds and promote water retainment, mulch has been amended to areas surrounding some of the trees and shrubs bordering athletic parks. The mulched areas will be amended annually, as needed to maintain its effectiveness. • Infield Dragger. A wide row of metal spikes, attached to a tractor is routinely dragged along the baselines and infield of baseball and softball fields. This levels the ground for running and prevents infiltration of groundcover and weeds. City of Sebastian Page 13 Integrated Pest Management Plan III. Active Parks Overview Active Parks are parks that do not contain Bermuda turf, and receive the most activity on a daily basis. Active parks feature open grassed areas for play, paths for walking and playgrounds. Predominantly, the groundcover in these parks is St. Augustine, and occasionally Bahia grass. Depending on the pest, active parks also need to be treated proactively, due to the number of park patrons they receive on a daily basis and the nature of the activities that take place. The City's active parks include: Riverview Park Complex, Schumann Park, Hardee Park, Friendship Park, Bark Park, the Pickleball Complex, Barber Street Park common areas, and the cemetery property. Groundcover in these parks does not have to be maintained to as high a standard as on athletic fields, as playability is not a factor. However safety must be maintained throughout the park, therefore, the tolerance threshold for pest activity, before action is taken is considered moderate. Common Pests The common park areas of active parks have fewer pests that would require treatment and for most of them the tolerance threshold is quite high. These include, but are not limited to: • Insects: Fire Ants, Mole Crickets • Vertebrates: Mice, Moles • Weeds: Broadleaf Weeds, Signal Grass, Dollar Weed, Non -Chemical Methods Similar to the Athletic parks, maintaining healthy groundcover is key to preventing damage from insects, weeds, and disease. Understanding the biological needs and growth of St. Augustine groundcover is essential to reducing the use of chemical pest control methods. However, optimum health is not required, as pest tolerance thresholds are much higher. Therefore, in order to prevent pests, the following cultural and mechanical methods will be conducted as needed, as part of the selective maintenance of the City's active parks: • Maintain healthy soils. Florida soils are very sandy and well -drained. Amending with organic material and microorganisms can increase water -holding capacity and reduce the need for fertilizers. Seasonal testing of pH and nutrient levels are integral to making the best decisions regarding soil management. • Irrigate uniformly and efficiently. Maintain efficient irrigation equipment and schedule irrigation in correlation with weather conditions and temporal City of Sebastian Page 14 Integrated Pest Management Plan requirements of the groundcover. Water should be uniformly distributed. Conduct regular water audits to ensure systems are not leaking and the pressure, alignment, and distribution of the heads are correct. • Fertilize properly. Annual testing of the soil should be conducted to ensure that the proper nutrients are being added. The addition of micro -nutrients at the appropriate time of the year will enhance the root system. Fertilization activities must be in compliance with City Ordinance Ch.50 Sec.50-5 (Appendix C) • Mow at correct height. Mowing at the incorrect height for the groundcover species can thin out and starve the grass, or encourage the build-up of thatch. St. Augustine is to be mowed at 3-5" height, depending on the season. Mowing is conducted often enough so that no more than 1/3 of the leaf height is cut. • Always mow with sharp blades. Dull mower blades cause uneven cutting and weaken the grass blades. The City owns its own blade sharpener and all mowing blades are sharpened as needed. • Tool Sanitation. Pests can easily spread among sites by hitchhiking on un - sanitized lawn equipment. Cleaning the mower and all landscape tools between areas minimizes pest transport. In addition, separate mowers are used for Bermuda Turf than is used on St. Augustine. • Over Seeding. The appearance and/or removal of pests as well as extensive drought conditions often leave open patches of disturbed soil behind, which are favored habitat for many weeds. Broadcasting Rye Grass seeds over sparse groundcover areas in Riverview Park will fill in these areas and prevent weed infiltration, while enhancing the greenness and overall aesthetics of grassed areas. • Mulching. To prevent weeds and reduce water requirements, mulch has been amended to areas surrounding some of the trees and shrubs bordering athletic parks. The mulched areas will be amended annually, as needed to maintain its effectiveness. City of Sebastian Page 15 Integrated Pest Management Plan IV. Passive Parks Overview Passive Parks do not contain Bermuda turf, and receive the least activity on a daily basis. Passive parks do not feature larger open grassed areas for play. Traffic is primarily on pathways and playgrounds. Predominantly, the groundcover in these parks is St. Augustine, and occasionally Bahia grass. Depending on the pest, passive parks may not require proactive treatments. The City's passive parks include: Easy Street Park, Historical Park, Kildaire Park, Filbert park, Bryant Park, George St. Park, Periwinkle Park, Blossom Street Park, Cheltenham Lake Park, Main Street Boat Ramp, Garden Club Park, Yacht Club, Community Center, Stormwater Park, and 5 miles of road medians (Schummann, USI) and 512 intersections. Groundcover in these parks does not have to be maintained to as high a standard as on athletic fields or active parks, as playability is also not a factor. Safety of turf is not a concern beyond the immediate trail areas and playgrounds. Therefore, the tolerance threshold for pest activity, before action is required is considered high. Common Pests The common park areas of passive parks have fewer pests that would require treatment and for most of them the tolerance threshold is very high. These include, but are not limited to: • Insects: Fire Ants, • Vertebrates: Mice, Moles Non -Chemical Methods Similar to the athletic and active parks, maintaining healthy groundcover is key to preventing damage from insects, weeds, and disease. Understanding the biological needs and growth of St. Augustine and Bahia groundcover is essential to reducing the use of chemical pest control methods. However, optimum health is not required, as pest tolerance thresholds are much higher. Therefore, in order to prevent pests, the following cultural and mechanical methods will be conducted occassionallv, as part of the reactive maintenance of the City's passive parks: • Maintain healthy soils. Florida soils are very sandy and well -drained. Amending with organic material and microorganisms can increase water -holding capacity and reduce the need for fertilizers. Seasonal testing of pH and nutrient levels are integral to making the best decisions regarding soil management. • Irrigate uniformly and efficiently. Maintain efficient irrigation equipment and schedule irrigation in correlation with weather conditions and temporal City of Sebastian Page 16 Integrated Pest Management Plan requirements of the groundcover. Water should be uniformly distributed. Conduct regular water audits to ensure systems are not leaking and the pressure, alignment, and distribution of the heads are correct. • Fertilize properly. Annual testing of the soil should be conducted to ensure that the proper nutrients are being added. The addition of micro -nutrients at the appropriate time of the year will enhance the root system. Fertilization activities must be in compliance with City Ordinance Ch.50 Sec.50-5 (Appendix C) • Mow at correct height. Mowing at the incorrect height for the groundcover species can thin out and starve the grass, or encourage the build-up of thatch. St. Augustine is to be mowed at 3-5" height, depending on the season. Mowing is conducted often enough so that no more than 1/3 of the leaf height is cut. • Always mow with sharp blades. Dull mower blades cause uneven cutting and weaken the grass blades. The City owns its own blade sharpener and all mowing blades are sharpened as needed. • Tool Sanitation. Pests can easily spread among sites by hitchhiking on un - sanitized lawn equipment. Cleaning the mower and all landscape tools between areas minimizes pest transport. In addition, separate mowers are used for Bermuda Turf than is used on St. Augustine. • Mulching. To prevent weeds and reduce water requirements, mulch has been amended to areas surrounding some of the trees and shrubs bordering athletic parks. The mulched areas will be amended annually, as needed to maintain its effectiveness. City of Sebastian Page 17 Integrated Pest Management Plan V. FURTHER NON -CHEMICAL RECOMMENDATIONS In addition to the cultural and mechanical pest control methods currently being implemented within the City's parks and properties, observations of the areas prompted the following recommendations for future consideration: • Updated Chemical Application Equipment. In order to adhere to the label requirements for pesticide application equipment must be carefully calibrated and maintained. Over time and with continual use, chemicals can erode parts of the equipment. Nozzles can deteriorate and triggers can become loose. This can result in a drastic, unintended increase in application rates. Updated motorized equipment cleans more efficiently, calibrates and hold calibration more accurately, and deteriorated parts can be easily replaced. • Warning Track. Replacing a wide strip of the turf that is closest to the back fence of the baseball/softball fields with rocks or other material will further decrease the amount of turf grass that needs to be maintained. Also of importance, the change in terrain serves as a "warning" for fielders trying to make a deep catch that they are running out of room, without having to take their eye off of the ball. For maintenance, it is simply dragged regularly, just like the baselines, to prevent turf grass or weed infiltration. • Concrete Platforms. Weeds are a continual problem underneath sports bleachers, park benches, and trash cans. These areas cannot be mowed and it is difficult or even impossible to use a weed eater around. Chemical control becomes the most feasible option. Installing a concrete platform under these features will pay off through the reduction of staff hours and chemical use, as well as increase the parks' aesthetics. • Trees. Trees enhance the shade and comfort for spectators, provide wildlife habitat, and shade groundcover, reducing water requirements. While no trees should be placed on or in proximity to athletic fields, still there are many spaces for the addition of trees within the general park areas. Trees will also enhance the safety of playgrounds as they shade the equipment from the Florida sun. The addition of trees will also enhance the aesthetic of the parks overall. • Extended Mulching. Currently, the mulched areas in these parks are minimal. Enlarging the mulched areas, by grouping trees into large landscaped islands will reduce the amount groundcover that needs maintained. • Habitat for Beneficials. Many Bermuda Turf pests have natural predators, which can be attracted to the athletic field by installing landscape beds of native flowering annuals and perennials along the edges of the general park areas. The addition of owl and bat boxes around the perimeter of these parks will help to control moles, voles, and other rodents. City of Sebastian Page 18 VI. CHEMICAL METHODOLOGY The Last IPM Tool Integrated Pest Management Plan nowhere near complete Chemical Controls should only be used when biological, mechanical, and cultural control methods are unavailable, impractical, ineffective, or will not reduce pest populations below tolerance thresholds. Restricted Chemicals It is not advisable to prohibit the use of any IPM Method. Unforeseeable conditions may arise in which City staff is limited in what will be effective at reducing pest populations. However, a list of restricted chemicals has been developed based on the active ingredient, % active ingredient, labeled hazard level, and environmental and/or human health concerns. Methods on this list are to be avoided at all costs. These sre only to be utilized to restore pest populations to a tolerance threshold to a level at which it can be managed by preferred methods. Before use of a restricted chemical, a "Restricted Chemical Wavier Form" (Appendix F) must be completed by staff and submitted to the IPM Coordinator and City Manager for signed approval. City of Sebastian Page 19 Integrated Pest Management Plan Figure 4: Chemical Characteristics Spreadsheet Advion Fire Ant Insecticide 1DO-1481 Bait Dimension 2EW Pre Emergent Herbicide 62719-542 Liquid Eco Might WOW Herbicide Exempt Indoxacarb .1345% Cc UaOn Dithiopyr 24% Warning Peppermint Oil 4.5% Potassium Sorbate 3.5% Sodium Chloride 3.5% Lesco Crosscheck 0.069% Plus Insecticide 70506-123 &Mini Bifenthrin.059% Caution Fertilizer (0-0-7 Fertilizer 10404 Mini Fertilizer) Lesco Crosscheck $341.60 per EPA 25 Pounds NOT ALLOWED Broadleaf Weeds NOT ALLOWED$116.75 COS Use Insecticide Parks Product Bifenthrin 7.9% Caution Plus gallons 10404 Label Hazard Events) and Pests Treated by Herbicide Cost of Product Name Type Registration Ingredients) 61887-1 Limitation Caution is Permitted Riverview Park $59.70 per 1 Quinclorac 8.43% Mole Crickets, Sod (For Special Level Product Events) and Product Herbicide 2217-930 # Caution Type Athletic Fields for use Most Limited Advion Fire Ant Insecticide 1DO-1481 Bait Dimension 2EW Pre Emergent Herbicide 62719-542 Liquid Eco Might WOW Herbicide Exempt Indoxacarb .1345% Cc UaOn Dithiopyr 24% Warning Peppermint Oil 4.5% Potassium Sorbate 3.5% Sodium Chloride 3.5% Lesco Crosscheck 0.069% Plus Insecticide 70506-123 &Mini Bifenthrin.059% Caution Fertilizer (0-0-7 Fertilizer 10404 Mini Fertilizer) Lesco Crosscheck $341.60 per 279-3206 25 Pounds NOT ALLOWED Broadleaf Weeds NOT ALLOWED$116.75 per Insecticide 64 ounces Bifenthrin 7.9% Caution Plus gallons 10404 Webworms Events) and Mansion Herbicide 228-373 Metsulfuron Methyl 60% Caution Orange Guard Insecticide 61887-1 d-Limonene 5.8% Caution Fire Ants, Fleas, Ticks, Riverview Park $59.70 per 1 Quinclorac 8.43% Mole Crickets, Sod (For Special gallon gall g Sulfentrazone .69% Events) and Q4 Plus Herbicide 2217-930 Playgrounds Only Caution Athletic Fields 2,4-D 11.81% Dicamba Most Limited Broadleaf Weeds Only ounces 1.49% Revolver Post $29.95 per Least Limited Ants, Roaches, Fleas All Parks Gallon Herbicide 432-1266 Foramsulfuron 2.34% Caution Emergent Liquid Signal Grass and $301.44 per NOT ALLOWED Speedzone NOT ALLOWED 2.5 gallons 2,4-D 10.49% Mecoprop-p Southern Post Herbicide 2217-835 2.66% Dicamba .67% Caution Emergent Liquid Carfentrazone .54% 87 ounces TopChoice Insecticide 432-1217 Fipronil.0143% Caution Tribune Herbicide 100-1390 Diquat 37.3% Caution City of Sebastian Page 20 $341.60 per Least Limited Fire Ants All Parks 25 Pounds NOT ALLOWED Broadleaf Weeds NOT ALLOWED$116.75 per Riverview Park 64 ounces More Limited $2,595 per 55 Least Limited All Weeds All Parks gallons City of Sebastian Page 20 Athletic Fields, Fire Ants, Fleas, Ticks, Riverview Park $20.47 per 50 More Limited Male Crickets, Sod (For Special Pounds Webworms Events) and Playgrounds Only Athletic Fields, Fire Ants, Fleas, Ticks, Riverview Park $59.70 per 1 Most Limited Mole Crickets, Sod (For Special gallon gall g Webworms, Termites Events) and Playgrounds Only Athletic Fields $37.77 per 2 Most Limited Broadleaf Weeds Only ounces $29.95 per Least Limited Ants, Roaches, Fleas All Parks Gallon Signal Grass and $301.44 per NOT ALLOWED Torpedo Grass NOT ALLOWED 2.5 gallons Athletic Fields $595.000 per Most Limited Goose Grass Only 87 ounces Broadleaf Weeds, Athletic Fields and Surround $168.38 per Most Limited specifically Florida Common Areas 2.5 gallons Pusley On ly Fire Ants, Fleas, Ticks, Athletic Fields $139 per 50 Most Limited Mole Crickets Only Pounds NOT ALLOWED Non -Selective City of Sebastian Page 20 VII. DATA MANAGEMENT Data Recording & Collection Integrated Pest Management Plan nowhere near complete Inspection and Monitoring. Before chemical control methods are utilized, City staff will properly identify the pest and record data on population estimates per square foot. The date, time and location of pest will be recorded as well. The location and extent of turf damage or abnormalities will be noted as well. Frequency. Routinely scheduled pesticide applications should be avoided whenever possible, unless such applications may be reasonably expected to result in an overall reduction in pesticide use when compared with all other practicable alternatives. Annual Report The IPM Coordinator will prepare an annual report of the City's IPM activities, which will be reviewed, each March, by the IPM Sub -Committee and City staff in an effort to assess the effectiveness of pest control methods, feasibility of new methods and technologies, and to decide whether revision of the IPM Plan is required. The annual report will include the following elements: • A summary of all field inspection data and chemical application record sheets • Summarized data presented in tables and graphs to depict trends in usage • A discussion of all restricted chemical wavier forms submitted • Pest management challenges reported by staff • Determine if the results have met expectations, or if the IPM plan requires modification • Summary of all public outreach activities conducted and their outcome City of Sebastian Page 21 Integrated Pest Management Plan Appendix A: R-00-00 Kim will draft a resolution for City Council to accompany this plan, which once approved, will incorporate the plan City Policy. City of Sebastian Page 22 Integrated Pest Management Plan Appendix B: Contractor Agreement City of Sebastian Page 23 Integrated Pest Management Plan CDC* SER&S-T Administrative Services Department Procurement Division 1225 Main Street - Sebastian, FL 32958 HOME OF PELICAN ISLAND (772) 388-8232 IPM PLAN CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT The Contractor, , hereby agrees to all of the (Company Name) following: • Review and follow the IPM Strategy Method Selection, as listed in the IPM Plan. • Inform and train employees of the IPM Plan. • Use only chemicals approved in the IPM Plan, and apply in accordance with rates/methods on the associating label. • Notify IPM Coordinator at least three (3) business days before pesticide application. Provide the location, date and anticipated chemicals being used. • Report monthlv to the IPM Coordinator with all pesticides used in the City and provide treatment sheets. I am a legal agent of the above named company and am fully authorized to sign and bind the above listed Company to this IPM Plan Contractor. Print Name: Title: Signature: Date: City of Sebastian Page 24 Integrated Pest Management Plan Appendix C: City Fertilizer Ordinance City of Sebastian Page 25 Integrated Pest Management Plan Land Develoament Code City of Sebastian CH.50 Sec. 50-5. - Florida -friendly fertilizer use on urban landscapes. (a) Findings. As a result of impairment to the City of Sebastian's surface waters caused by excessive nutrients, or, as a result of increasing levels of nitrogen in the surface and/or ground water within the aquifers or springs within the boundaries of the City of Sebastian, the city council has determined that the use of fertilizers on lands within the City of Sebastian creates a contributing risk that adversely effects surface and/or ground water. (b) Purpose and intent. This section regulates the proper use of fertilizers by any applicator; requires proper training of commercial and institutional fertilizer applicators; establishes training and licensing requirements; establishes a prohibition application period; specifies allowable fertilizer application rates and methods, fertilizer -free zones, low maintenance zones, and exemptions. The ordinance requires the use of Best Management Practices which provide specific management guidelines to minimize negative secondary and cumulative environmental effects associated with the misuse of fertilizers. These secondary and cumulative effects have been observed in and on the City of Sebastian's natural and constructed stormwater conveyances, rivers, creeks, canals, springs, lakes, estuaries and other water bodies. Collectively, these water bo lies are an asset critical to the environmental, recreational, cultural and economic well-being of the City of Sebastian's residents and the health of the public. Overgrowth of algae and vegetation hinder the effectiveness of flood attenuation provided by natural and constructed stormwater conveyances. Regulation of nutrients, including both phosphorus and nitrogen contained in fertilizer, will help improve and maintain water and habitat quality. (c) Definitions. For this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. "Administrator" means the city manager, or any other city official designated by the city manager. "Application"or "apply" means the actual physical deposit of fertilizer to turf or landscape plants. "Applicator" means any person who applies fertilizer on turf and/or landscape plants in the City of Sebastian. "Board" or 'governing board" means City Council of the City of Sebastian. "Best Management Practices" means turf and landscape practices or combinations of practices based on research, field-testing, and expert review, determined to be the most effective and practicable on -location means, including economic and technological considerations, for improving water quality, conserving water supplies and protecting natural resources. "Commercial fertilizer applicator", except as provided in F.S. § 482.1562(9), means any person who applies fertilizer for payment or other consideration to property not owned by the person or firm applying the fertilizer or the employer of the applicator. "Fertilize"; 'fertilizing" or "fertilization" means the act of applying fertilizer to turf, specialized turf, or landscape plants. "Guaranteed analysis" means the percentage of plant nutrients or measures of neutralizing capability claimed to be present in a fertilizer. "Institutional applicator" means any person, other than a private, non-commercial or a commercial applicator (unless such definitions also apply under the circumstances), that applies fertilizer for the purpose of maintaining turf and/or landscape plants. Institutional applicators shall include, but shall not be limited to, owners, managers or employees of public lands, schools, parks, religious institutions, utilities, industrial or business sites and any residential properties maintained in condominium and/or common ownership. "Landscape plant" means any native or exotic tree, shrub or groundcover (excluding turf). City of Sebastian Page 26 Integrated Pest Management Plan "Low maintenance zone" means an area a minimum of ten feet wide adjacent to water courses which is planted and managed in order to minimize the need for fertilization, watering, mowing, etc. "Person" means any natural person, business, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, limited partnership, association, club, organization, an/or any group of people acting as an organized entity. "Prohibited application period" means June 1 through September 30 or the time period during which a flood watch or warning, or a tropical storm water or warning, or a hurricane watch or warning is in effect for any portion of the City of Sebastian, issued by the National Weather Service, or if heavy rainfall is likely. "Sebastian Approved Management Practices Training Program" means a training program approved per F.S. § 403.9338, or any more stringent requirements set forth in this Chapter that includes the most current version of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's "Florida -Friendly Best Management Practices for Protection of water Resources by the Green Industries, 2008" as revised and approved by the administrator. "Saturated soil" means a soil in which the voids are filled with water. Saturation does not require flow. For the purpose of this section, soils shall be considered saturated if standing water is present or the pressure of a person standing on the soil causes the release of free water. "Slow release", "controlled release", "timed release", "slowly available" or "water insoluble nitrogen" means nitrogen in a form which delays its availability for plant uptake and use after application, or which extends its availability to the plant longer than a reference rapid or quick release product. "Turf" , "sod", or "lawn" means a piece of grass -covered soil held together by the roots of the grass. "Urban landscape" means pervious areas on residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, highway right-of-way, or other nonagricultural lands that are planted with turf or horticultural plants. For the purposes of this section, agriculture has the same meaning as in F.S. § 570.02. (d) Applicability. This section shall be applicable to and shall regulate all applicators of fertilizer and areas of application of fertilizer within the City of Sebastian unless such applicator is specifically exempted by the terms of this section from the regulatory provision of this section. This section shall be prospective only, and shall not impair any existing contracts. (e) Timing of fertilizer application. No applicator shall apply fertilizers containing nitrogen and/or phosphorus to turf and/or landscape plants during the prohibited application period, or to saturated soils. (f) Fertilizer free zones. Fertilizer shall not be applied within ten feet of any pond, stream, watercourse, lake, canal, or wetland as defined by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (Chapter 62-340, Florida Administrative Code) or from the top of a seawall. If more stringent City of Sebastian Code regulations apply, this provision does not relieve the requirement to adhere to the more stringent regulations. Newly planted turf and/or landscape plants may be fertilized in this zone only for a 60 -day period beginning 30 days after planting if need to allow the plants to become well established. Caution shall be used to prevent direct deposition of nutrients into the water. (g) Low maintenance zones. A voluntary ten -foot low maintenance zone is strongly recommended, but not mandated, from any pond, stream, water course, lake, wetland or from the top of a seawall. A swale/berm system is recommended for installation at the landward edge of this low maintenance zone to capture and filter runoff. If more stringent City of Sebastian Code regulations apply, this provision does not relieve the requirement to adhere to the more stringent regulations. No mowed or cut vegetative material may be deposited or left remaining in this zone or deposited in the water. Care should be taken to prevent the over -spray of aquatic weed products in this zone. (h) Fertilizer content and application rates. (1) No fertilizer containing phosphorous shall be applied to turf or landscape plants in the City of Sebastian unless a soil or plant tissue deficiency is verified by a University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences, approved testing methodology. In the case that a deficiency has City of Sebastian Page 27 Integrated Pest Management Plan been verified, the application of a fertilizer containing phosphorous shall be in accordance with the rates and directions for the Central Region of Florida as provided by Rule 5E-1.003(2), Florida Administrative Code. Deficiency verification shall be no more than two years old. However, recent application of compost, manure, or top soil shall warrant more recent testing to verify current deficiencies. (2) The nitrogen content of fertilizer applied to turf or landscape plants within the City of Sebastian shall contain at least 50 percent slow release nitrogen per guaranteed analysis label. (3) Fertilizers applied to an urban lawn or turf within the City of Sebastian shall be applied in accordance with requirements and directions set forth on the label or tag for packaged fertilizer products, or in the printed information accompanying the delivery of bulk fertilizer products, as provided by Rule 5E-1.003(2), Florida Administrative Code, Labeling Requirements For Urban Turf Fertilizers. All packaged and bulk fertilizer products sold in the City of Sebastian shall be sold in packages with labels or tags, or, if sold in bulk, be accompanied by printed information, which complies with the requirements of Rule 5E-1.003(2), Florida Administrative Code. (4) Fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorus shall not be applied before seeding or sodding a site, and shall not be applied for the first 30 days after seeding or sodding, except when hydro - seeding for temporary or permanent erosion control in an emergency situation (wildfire, etc.), or in accordance with the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan for that site. (i) Application practices. (1) Spreader deflector shields are required when fertilizing via rotary (broadcast) spreaders. Deflectors must be positioned such that fertilizer granules are deflected away from all impervious surfaces, fertilizer -free zones and water bodies, include wetlands. (2) Fertilizer shall not be applied, spilled or otherwise deposited on any impervious surfaces. (3) Any fertilizer applied, spilled, or deposited, either intentionally or accidentally, on any impervious surface shall be immediately and completely removed to the greatest extent practicable. (4) Fertilizer released on an impervious surface must be immediately contained and either legally applied to turf or any other legal site, or returned to the original or other appropriate container. (5) In no case shall fertilizer be washed, swept, or blown off impervious surfaces into stormwater drains, ditches, conveyances, or water bodies. (j) Management of grass clipping and vegetative matter. In no case shall grass clippings, vegetative material, and/or vegetative debris be washed, swept, or blown off into stormwater drains, ditches, conveyances, water bodies, wetlands, or sidewalks or roadways. Any material that is accidentally so deposited shall be immediately removed to the maximum extent practicable. (k) Exemptions. The provisions set forth in the chapter shall not apply to: (1) Bona fide farm operations as defined in the Florida Right to Farm Act, F.S. § 823.14; (2) Other properties not subject to or covered under the Florida Right to Farm Act that have pastures used for grazing livestock; (3) Any lands used for bona fide scientific research, including, but not limited to, research on the effects of fertilizer use on urban stormwater, water quality, agronomics, or horticulture. (4) Golf courses when landscaping is performed within the provisions of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection document, "Best Management Practices for the Enhancement of Environmental Quality on Florida Golf Courses", these provisions shall be followed when applying fertilizer to golf course practice and play areas; (5) Athletic fields at public parks and school facilities that apply the concepts and principles embodied in the Florida Green BMPs, while maintaining the health and function of their specialized turf areas; City of Sebastian Page 28 Integrated Pest Management Plan (6) Vegetable gardens owned by individual property owners or a community, and trees grown for their edible fruit. (1) Training. (1) All commercial and institutional applicators or fertilizer within the City of Sebastian, shall abide by and successfully complete the six -hour training program in the "Florida -Friendly Best Management Practices for Protection of Water Resources by the Green Industries" offered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection through the University of Florida Extension "Florida -Friendly Landscapes" program, or an approved equivalent. (2) Private, non-commercial applicators are encouraged to follow the recommendations of the University of Florida IFAS Florida Yards and Neighborhoods program when applying fertilizers. (m) Licensing of commercial applicators. (1) Prior to January 1, 2014, all commercial applicators of fertilizer with the City of Sebastian, shall abide by and successfully complete training and continuing education requirements in the "Florida -Friendly Best Management Practices for Protection of Water Resources by the Green Industries", offered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection through the University of Florida IFAS "Florida -Friendly Landscapes" program, or an approved equivalent program, prior to obtaining a City of Sebastian Local Business Tax Receipt for any category of occupation which may apply any fertilizer to turf and/or landscape plants. (2) After December 31, 2013, all commercial applicators of fertilizer within the City of Sebastian, shall have and carry in their possession at all times when applying fertilizer, evidence of certification by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services as a Commercial Fertilizer Applicator per 5E-14.117(18) F.A.C. (3) All businesses applying fertilizer to turf and/or landscape plants (including but not limited to residential lawns, golf courses, commercial properties, and multi -family and condominium properties) must ensure that at least one employee has a "Florida -Friendly Best Management Practices for Protection of Water Resources by the Green Industries" training certificate prior to the business owner obtaining a local business tax receipt. Owners for any category of occupation which may apply and fertilizer to turf and/or landscape plants shall provide proof of completion of the program to the City of Sebastian. (n) Enforcement. The provisions of this section may be enforced pursuant to any method provided for by the Code or Ordinances or general law. (Ord. No. 0-12-06, § 1, 5-9-12; Ord. No. 0-14-02, § 1, 3-26-14) City of Sebastian Page 29 Integrated Pest Management Plan Appendix D: Field Inspection Data Sheet City of Sebastian Page 30 Integrated Pest Management Plan Appendix E: Chemical Application Record Sheet City of Sebastian Page 31 Integrated Pest Management Plan Appendix F: Wavier form for Restricted Chemicals City of Sebastian Page 32 Integrated Pest Management Plan Appendix G: Labels and SDS Sheets City of Sebastian Page 33 Integrated Pest Management Plan Appendix H: Glossary of Terms City of Sebastian Page 34