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East Kentucky Power and five of its
distribution cooperatives initiated a comprehensive environmental assessment
of the effects of herbicides in power corridors within the Daniel Boone National
Forest.
This project consisted of a two year survey of flora and fauna within 305
miles of transmission and distribution corridors. Nine biologists in three teams conductive extensive field surveys of reptiles,
amphibians, insects, plants and small mammals to determine the occurrence of
rare or endangered species within the corridors.
As a result of this survey it was
determined that many rare plant communities exist within the power corridors
of the Daniel Boone National
Forest.
Many of the rare plant sites have received herbicide applications within the
past 8 years. A number of rare orchid sites containing species such as the
White Fringeless Orchid (Platanthera integrilabia),
the Crested Fringed Orchid (Platathera cristata),
Grass-pink (Calapogon tuberosis)
and the Spreading Pogonia (Cleistes
bifaria) were discovered along the 305 miles of
line. In addition, a number of species listed by the Daniel Boone including
the Wood Lily (Lilium philadelphicum), Concolor’s
Aster (Aster concolor), the Hairy Snoutbean
(Rhyncosia tomentosa)
and the Red-disk Sunflower (Helianthus atrorubens).
In addition, a number of rare reptiles were
collected within study sites constructed along the rights-of-way. The Coal
Skink (Eumeces anthracinus)
and the Eastern Slender Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus
attenuatus longicaudus),
two rare lizards, were discovered in powerlines in
the southeastern portion of the national forest.
Conclusions of this survey determined
little effect of herbicides on non-target species. If used properly herbicides
along with
mowing and burning can enhance biodiversity by reducing woody vegetation.
Management plans drafted by the Daniel Boone National
Forest and implemented by East Kentucky Power and
the member cooperatives can preserve rare plant communities while allowing
necessary vegetation management.
Ref#: Abs-1-132
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