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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-14-2020 Parks IPM PlanACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This Integrated Pest Management Plan is the collaborative product of hard work, in-depth discussion, thoughtful review, and peer -reviewed scientific research conducted over five (5) months, by the following charter members of the IPM Sub -Committee: Natural Resources Board Members Kathy Brothers Brian O'Neill Thomas Carrano Jessica Lovell Scientific Advisors Dr. Graham Cox, Pelican Island Audubon Society Christine Kelly-Begazo, University of Florida- IFAS Indian River County Extension Office Sharon Tyson, Florida State Parks Ruth Callaghan, CEAC (Certified Environmental Analytical Chemist) City Staff Brian Benton, Leisure Services Director Kimberly Haigler, IPM Coordinator The IPM Sub -Committee hereby approves this IPM Plan, in its entirety, on the 20t" day of July, 2020. The Parks and Recreation Board hereby approves this IPM Plan, in its entirety, on the 27th day of July, 2020. The Natural Resources Board hereby approves this IPM Plan, in its entirety, on the 4t" day of August, 2020. The aforementioned collectively present this IPM Plan and accompanying Resolution (R-20-12) for City Council approval on the 27t" day of August, 2020. 5UST $EB The City of Sebastian's IPM Plan is a Sustainable Sebastian Initiative. For more information about Sustainable Sebastian visit: https://www.sebastionnrb.com/ TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION Scope 1 IPM Sub -Committee 3 IPM Coordinator 3 IPM Plan 4 Goals 4 IPM Program 4 Community IPM Cycle 6 Standard Operating Procedures 8 II. ATHLETIC PARKS Overview 10 Key Pests 10 Non -Chemical Methods 10 III. ACTIVE PARKS Overview 12 Key Pests 12 Non -Chemical Methods 12 IV. PASSIVE PARKS Overview 14 Key Pests 14 Non -Chemical Methods 14 V. FURTHER NON -CHEMICAL RECOMMENDATIONS Future Considerations 16 VI. PESTICIDE USE METHODOLOGY Planning Pesticide Application 19 Treatment Notification 20 Approved Pesticides 20 New or Restricted Pesticides 22 VII. DATA MANAGEMENT Data Recording & Collection 24 Program Transparency 24 Annual Report & Evaluation 24 Vill. FUTURE RECOMMENDATIONS Future Recommendations 26 IX. APPENDIX Appendix A: R-20-12 27 Appendix B: Contractor Agreement (IPM.CA.Vl) 31 Appendix C: Fertilizer Ordinance 33 Appendix D: Chemical Control Log (IPM.CCL.Vl) 38 Appendix E: Pesticide Notification Sign 39 Appendix F: Environmental Impact Quotient Formula 41 Appendix G: Pesticide Exemption Form (IPM.PEF.Vl) 43 Appendix H: Monthly IPM Log (IPMAILNI) 45 Appendix I: Glossary of Terms 47 INCLUDED FIGURES Figure 1: Map of City's Parks and Properties 2 Figure 2: Diagram of the Community IPM Cycle 7 Figure 3: Parks and Properties Classification Table 8 Figure 4: Table of Recommended Non -Chemical Control Methods 17 Figure 5: Approved Pesticide Table (IPM.APT.Vl) 23 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. The Sun Rises Over the Indian River at Riverview Park. CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 1 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. IPM Coordinator In order to provide for the planning and oversight of the IPM program, the position of IPM Coordinator is established. The appointed IPM Coordinator shall be a member of City staff who is in a position related to environmental or planning, who shall coordinate with the Leisure Services Director. Together, they 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. Their 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 3 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. Any substance, or combination of substances which is intended to prevent, destroy, repel, or mitigate pest species is called a pesticide. 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." Goals ■ Protect environmental resources 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 initially and annually by the IPM Sub -Committee, Natural Resources Board, Parks &Recreation Board, and then presented to City Council for final approval. The plan will then be incorporated as City policy through the adoption of Resolution R-20-12 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. Accurate records will be maintained on 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 per record retention schedule. 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). A certification course on Green Business Best Management Practices will be provided through partnership with the University of Florida CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 4 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN Indian River County Extension Office as needed. The training sessions are coordinated by the Human Resources Director, who will track employees' attendance and ensure that 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. All pesticide applications will be in compliance with state regulations regarding applicator licensing. 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. Education and 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 practices for their property, 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). • Incorporate the IPM Plan into the Florida Department of Environmental Protections (FDEP)'s National Pollutant Discharge and Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II, MS4 Permit Cycle 4, Year 2 Annual Report (September, 2022) and the Cycle 5 NOI CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 5 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN (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 accurately identified. Life history attributes are to be known for each pest identified. 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 program is meeting expectations. Establish if all actions have 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 6 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN Standard Operating Procedures When selecting and implementing a pest management strategy, from this plan, the following will be considered by Citv Staff: 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 • Proximity to surface, surficial, and groundwater resources Figure 3: Parks and Properties Classification Table • • ParksAthletic Active Parks Barber Street Riverview Park Easy Street Kildaire Park Complex Friendship Park Field Schumann Park Filbert Park Historical Park Hardee Park Bryant Park George Street Park Friendship Park Periwinkle Park Blossom Park Bark Park Cheltenham Park Garden Club Park Pickleball Complex Barber St. Common Areas Cemetery Yacht Club Community Center ��iro fMI N 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 Other Factors. Additional factors relevant to the selection • Special equipment or storage required for method • Method of delivery Main St. Boat Ramp Stormwater Park City Hall/ PD Grounds CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 8 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN VI. PESTICIDE USE METHODOLOGY Chemical Controls will be utilized after biological, mechanical, and cultural control methods, as listed on Figure 4, have been implemented and fail to reduce pest populations below tolerance thresholds. The approved products are most effective and pose the least risk, when used as part of an IPM program, following proper and frequent biological, mechanical, and cultural pest control methods. Planning Pesticide Application Inspection and Monitoring. Before chemical control methods are utilized, the certified applicator will properly identify the pest and record data on population estimates, weather, and location. All inspection and application data will be recorded in the field by the certified applicator on the "Chemical Control Log" Form (Appendix D). Concentrations & Application Rates. Proper pesticide application entails applying the minimum amount of product to provide effective control. For this reason, the pesticide manufacturers spend millions of dollars to determine the rate, and therefore the amount, that the pesticide should be applied. These products rarely arrive from the manufacturer ready to use for commercial applications. It is up to the applicator to dilute or mix the product with water, oil and/or surfactant, according to the directions on the product label. The exact concentration of the active ingredient in the pesticide mixture is critical to its effectiveness. Too little product in the mixture may result in reduced efficacy, while too much may result in injury to the treated surface, illegal residues, impacts to the surrounding environment, or unnecessary expense. While the instructions for mixing the product involve simple calculations, it is important that all measurements be made accurately, carefully, and with the most precise measuring equipment available. Directions for mixing and applying pesticides come in two general scenarios: rate per volume of water (pesticide concentration) or rate per area of land (lb. or qt. per acre). Mixing directions will vary. Pesticides that are mixed by concentration generally have specific directions for application. Some insecticide application directions may state to apply until spray runs off the target plant. Some herbicide application directions may state to apply only enough spray material to wet the leaves uniformly. Proper calibration of equipment and knowing how fast it is moving is crucial to controlling how much pesticide is being applied. The applicator must read the label to know how much product to apply. THE LABEL IS THE LAW. Discouraged Procedures. Routinely scheduled pesticide applications and the broadcasting application method 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. CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 19 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN Buffer Zones. All Stormwater features (lakes, ponds, ditches, canals) within or bordering the City's parks and properties will not be treated under this IPM Plan, as they will be addressed in a separate IPM Plan for Stormwater assets. However, as park landscapes are treated with pesticides near these areas a buffer zone must be observed in order to protect the shoreline integrity and water quality. Therefore, no application of pesticides may occur within a minimum of 10 feet from these features. Safety Data Sheets. A binder of product labels and safety data sheets (SDS) for all approved pesticides will be provided to City staff and third party contractors whom apply, or may come in direct contact with the pesticides. In addition, this data will be available on the City's IPM website. Treatment Notification The City and contractors shall provide the public and its staff with notification of pesticide applications through the use of the Pesticide Notification Sign (Appendix F). Completed signs should be posted at all major public and employee points of entry to the treated area pursuant to state and/or federal law, the City's IPM Plan, and according to product label instructions. Notice is to be posted at least 24 hours in advance of application and remain in place for 24 hours following the application, unless the manufacturer's product label specifies a longer posting period. Signs shall be of standardized design, printed in color, laminated, and contain the name of the pesticide product, target pest, date and time applied, required re- entry interval and the name and contact number for the Leisure Services Director. Conditional Exemptions. The Leisure Services Director and IPM Coordinator may grant authorization to apply a pesticide in regular park and property areas without providing a 24 hour notification. Authorization requires that there is a compelling need to use the pesticide, such as immediate threat to public health, safety, City property, or substantial economic detriment. These signs shall be posted as soon as possible prior to application, and remain posted following the application for 24 hours. All documentation of this exemption must be retained and included in the annual report. Signage shall not be required in right-of-way locations that the general public does not use for recreation, or pedestrian purposes, such as median strips. Approved Pesticides A comprehensive list of approved pesticides for use within the City's parks and properties has been compiled by the IPM Sub -Committee. These chemicals have either been previously utilized by City Staff, recommended through the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) extension office publications, or discovered through extensive staff and committee member research. The "Approved Pesticide Table" includes pertinent chemical attributes such as: active ingredients and their percentages, EPA Registration #, targeted pest, a cost rating per 1000 ft2, and the observed staff efficacy of the product CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 20 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN (Figures). Selection of pesticides for use should be based upon a combination of a low Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ), low cost, and maximum efficacy. Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ). To best create a comparison among chemical methods, the Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ) Method will be applied. Developed by Cornell University, the EIQ is a numerical model for pesticide selection. The formula takes into account factors such as: toxicity to humans, leachability to groundwater, runoff potential, soil persistence, and the effects on non -target terrestrial and aquatic species. (Appendix E) The risk of each chemical is the product of its overall toxicity and the potential for exposure. Cornell has a published table of commonly used chemicals and their calculated scores. (Kovatch, et.al, 1992) Field Use EIQ. However, since the risk of a chemical's use increases with the amount that is applied, it is necessary to take into account the rate of application. In order to accomplish this, the EIQ is multiplied by the % of the active ingredient and the rate of application to create the Field Use EIQ Rating. The field use EIQ s for all chemicals applied over a period of time can then be summed to create a field number that can then be compared to assess the reduction in environmental impacts among years or seasons. The Field Use EIQ can also be utilized to compare when multiple applications of a low EIQ chemical, such as a bio pesticide, are required versus when single applications are required of a higher EIQ chemical (Appendix F). (Kovatch, et.al, 1992) Bio Pesticides. In the IPM Sub -Committee's quest to provide pest management options that are not only effective, but also have the least possible risk to human and environmental health, bio pesticide options were reviewed extensively. Bio pesticides, also called "natural" or "organic" pesticides, are non -synthetic and contain only naturally occurring substances. These products break down rapidly in sunlight or water, which means that they do not persist long in the environment and therefore pose the least risk to non -target organisms. Also, bio pesticides are typically fast -acting and can kill immediately on contact or cause the pest to instantly cease essential biological processes, such as feeding. For these reasons, bio pesticide options are generally preferred alternatives to the synthetic chemical pesticides. However, there are also potential risks associated with the application of natural products that the IPM Sub -Committee must consider when selecting pesticides for the "Approved Pesticide Table". It is important to note that all pesticides, whether natural or synthetic, carry inherent risks and require safety precautions. The ability to break down fast can also mean that multiple applications are required to match the efficacy of the synthetic chemical option. Multiple applications can drastically increase the cost and the risks of the product. Because bio pesticides are made of natural substances, they often are exempt from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) review process. Therefore, there is little to no data on the long-term risks or efficacy. Of those that are registered by the EPA, many are not registered for sale in Florida, due to the lack of data. The City may not legally use a pesticide that is not state registered in this manner, per Florida Statutes: 482 and 487. Bio pesticides that are registered CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 21 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN may not be mass produced for commercial use and therefore may be priced too high for use over large areas, or simply not readily available. The lack of EPA review and state registration also means that they are produced by a variety of different sources, which often results in inconsistent potency and efficacy among producers and even within different batches from the same producer. For these reasons, while there are many natural pesticide options listed on the "Approved Pesticide Table", it is not feasible to only approve bio pesticide options. New or Restricted Pesticides In the development of a thorough and reasonable IPM Plan, It is not advisable to prohibit the use of any IPM Method, which is legally approved and included in the OF IFAS local recommendations for pest management. Unforeseeable conditions may arise in which City staff is limited in what will be effective at reducing pest populations. In addition, the IPM Sub - Committee also recognizes that new pesticides are constantly being developed and approved, which may prove to be more environmentally and economically sustainable than current approved pesticides. On the "Approved Pesticide List" (Figure 5), specific pesticides are labeled as "restricted use." Use of these pesticides is to be avoided. These are only to be utilized to restore high and very high pest populations back down to a moderate tolerance threshold at which it can then be managed by preferred methods. Before purchase of a restricted pesticide or any new pesticide that is not included on this spreadsheet, a "Pesticide Exemption Form" (Appendix F) must be completed by applicator and submitted to the Leisure Services Director, IPM Coordinator, and City Manager for signed approval. This form is to be submitted 4 days prior to proposed application date. The form requires thorough justification for use of the chemical. However, should a new pesticide containing the same % active ingredient(s) be discovered which is preferred, an exemption form must be completed and submitted to the IPM Coordinator, but approval will not be required. "Old Guys" Softball league plays at Barber Street Park CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 22 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN VII. DATA MANAGEMENT Accurate records are essential for the success of an IPM program. They provide staff with historical, site -specific knowledge of pest activity and pesticide application. With this information, it can be predicted when certain pest problems are likely to occur. Effective record -keeping can also call attention to patterns of pest outbreaks and associations among pest populations, as well as provide valuable data for assessment of the IPM Program. Data Recording & Collection Field Data. All Non -Chemical pest control activities conducted within athletic parks will be recorded on the "Monthly IPM Log" (Appendix H). Because chemicals are applied very rarely to passive and active parks, daily records of non -chemical methods are not necessary. Before chemical control methods are utilized, the licensed applicator will properly identify the pest and record data on population estimates and efficacy of application. The date, time and location of pest will be recorded as well as the location and extent of turf damage or abnormalities. This data will be recorded on the Chemical Control Log Form (Appendix D) each time that pesticides are applied. These sheets will be completed manually in the field by the certified applicator and submitted to the IPM Coordinator monthly so that the data may be digitally compiled and stored. Purchase Orders. All purchase orders for chemicals or IPM related equipment and materials will be submitted annually to the IPM Coordinator. Contractors. All contractors who manage pests on City owned, leased, or managed property shall be required to adhere to the guidelines established in the City's IPM Plan. Contractors must sign the "IPM Plan Contractor Agreement" (Appendix B) and maintain complete records of all chemical and non -chemical pest control activities. When applicable, a "Pesticide Exemption Form" must be submitted. "Pesticide Notification Signage" must also be posted per the IPM plan requirements. A summary of these activities must be submitted to the IPM Coordinator monthly, or upon completion of the job. These records must include treatment sheets and "Chemical Control Log" forms for all pesticide applications. Program Transparency All records and information regarding the IPM Program will be made available to employees and the public through the City's IPM Program Website and upon request, in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act, Florida Statute: 119. Annual Report & Evaluation The IPM Coordinator will maintain all records relevant to the IPM Program, in order to prepare an annual report of the City's IPM activities. The annual report will be reviewed, each March, by the IPM Sub -Committee and City staff in an effort to assess the effectiveness of pest control CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 24 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN VII. FUTURE RECOMMENDATIONS The IPM Sub -Committee acknowledges that this plan does not encompass every aspect of integrated pest management, nor could it address every possible scenario that may arise as this plan is incorporated into City policy. For this reason, the sub -committee members are in consensus that they shall reconvene six (6) months following adoption of this plan in order to closely review the data collected and address any inconsistencies, or amendments needed. For future consideration the Sub -Committee Members make the following recommendations: • A numeric quantification of pest populations is not being required, as this task may become tedious for applicator staff. Instead, it was decided to provide a more subjective scale ranging from "very low" to "very high". Should future review of data indicate the need, then a more quantitative approach may be needed. • Records of non -chemical pest management activities through completion of the "Monthly IPM Log" are only being required from staff conducting work on the City's athletic parks. These activities occur constantly in all City properties, but recording each activity on parks and spaces in which chemicals are very rarely applied, did not seem necessary. Should future review indicate that there is a regular need for chemicals in these areas, and then this requirement may need to be broadened to include more of the City staff. • The collection of data for purposes of monitoring impact to native plants, animals, and pollinators from the conduct of pest management activities is not being required. The field EIQ formula assumes that native plants, animals, and pollinators are all present and measures potential risks to them by using the score assigned to the chemical and incorporating the area covered and frequency of application. Should future review of data that are being collected indicate excessive or regular use of chemicals, a more quantitative approach may be needed. • At the time that this IPM plan was drafted, there was no available data to assign an Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ) for bio pesticides, as they are not subject to EPA review. There is a universal need and it is anticipated that future research will assign EIQs to these products. It is therefore recommended that the IPM Coordinator check peer -reviewed research regularly, so that these numbers may be incorporated into the "Approved Pesticides Table" and aid in pesticide application decisions and evaluation. CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 26 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN Appendix A: R-20-12 CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 27 RESOLUTION NO.R-20-12 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SEBASTIAN, INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING THE "INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM) PLAN FOR CITY PARKS AND PROPERTIES" TO BE IMPLEMENTED INTO CITY POLICY; PROVIDING FOR SCRIVENER'S ERRORS; PROVIDING FOR EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, City Council believes that a commitment to the environment is integral to a thriving and livable community; are in support of the "Sustainable Sebastian" Initiative (R- 19-30) and are committed to keeping sustainability in mind while supporting the ecological, economic, and social needs of our community, and WHEREAS, the IPM Sub -Committee was created in February, 2020 by request of the City Council, to assist City staff in the development of an Integrated Pest Management Plan for the City's parks and properties, and WHEREAS, a pest may be any plant, vertebrate, invertebrate, or pathogen, which may cause disease, inflict damage, or out -compete the more desirable species for an area, be aesthetically undesired, or threaten to impact human/animal health, and WHEREAS, to adopt an integrated pest management policy is 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, by first promoting biological, physical, mechanical, and cultural pest control methods, while also remaining economically feasible. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEBASTIAN, INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA, as follows: SECTION 1. SUPPORT FOR THE "IPM PLAN FOR CITY PARKS AND PROPERTIES". The City Council hereby is in support of the "IPM Plan for City Parks and Properties", which shall be implemented into City policy and annually reviewed, by the Leisure Services Director, IPM Coordinator, IPM Sub -Committee, and City Council to ensure that the four following goals are being achieved to the maximum extent practicable: • Protect environmental resources 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 SECTION 2. CONFLICT. All resolutions or parts of resolutions in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. SECTION 3. SCRIVENER'S ERRORS. Sections of this resolution may be renumbered or re -lettered and corrections of typographical errors which do not affect the intent may be authorized by the City Manager, or the City Manager's designee, without need of further action of the City Council by filing a corrected copy of same with the City Clerk. SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption. The foregoing Resolution was moved for adoption by Councilmember . The motion was seconded by Councilmember and, upon being put into a vote, the vote was as follows: Mayor Ed Dodd Vice Mayor Jim Hill Councilmember Christopher Nunn Councilmember Fred Jones Councilmember Bob McPartlan The Mayor thereupon declared this Resolution duly passed and adopted this day of 2020. CITY OF SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA LE ATTEST: Jeanette Williams, MMC City Clerk Approved as to Form and Content for Reliance by the City of Sebastian Only: Manny Anon, Jr., City Attorney Ed Dodd, Mayor INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN Appendix 6: Contractor Agreement CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 31 cmo>= SEBAsT,N ;�M� - HOME OF PELICAN ISLAND The Contractor, following: Administrative Services Department Procurement Division 1225 Main Street Sebastian, FL 32958 (772)388-8232 IPM PLAN CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT (Company Name) • Review and follow the City's IPM Plan completely , hereby agrees to all of the • Inform and train employees of the IPM Plan's policies and procedures. • Use only pesticides listed in the "Approved Pesticide Table", and apply in accordance with rates/methods on the associating label. • Complete the "Chemical Control Log" form completely with every pesticide application. • Should there be a need to apply a pesticide classified as "restricted" on the "Approved Pesticide Table" or a pesticide not named on the table, a "Pesticide Exemption Form" must be completed and submitted to the Leisure Services Director at least four (4) days before proposed application date. • Notify the Leisure Services Director at least three (3) business days before pesticide application. Provide the location, date and anticipated chemicals being used. • Post the completed "Pesticide Notification Signage", in accordance with the IPM Plan requirements • Report monthly to the IPM Coordinator with all treatment sheets and completed "Chemical Control Logs" 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: IPM.CA.V1 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN Appendix C: City Fertilizer Ordinance CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 33 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN City of Sebastian Code of Ordinances 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 bodies 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 CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 34 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN 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). "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 CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 35 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN 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 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; CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 36 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN (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; (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-14.1 17(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 37 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN Appendix D: Chemical Control Log CITY OF SEBASTIAN PAGE 38