REPLY DUE FEBRUARY 1, 1999

The Standards and Guidelines for Management of Habitat for Late-Successional and Old-Growth Forest Related Species within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl include the conducting of surveys prior to all ground-disturbing activities that will be implemented in FY 1999 or later (page C-5, Component 2). Surveys are required within the known or suspected range and within the habitat types or vegetative communities associated with the fungus species identified within Component 2.

Enclosed is the standard protocol (Version 2.0) for conducting surveys for Bridgeoporus (=Oxyporus) nobilissimus.

The protocol is designed so that there is a high probability of finding populations of this species if present. Please follow the standard protocol as closely as possible.

Where there is any deviation from the protocol, biologists are requested to document the action taken and the rationale for the change. This will assist in future protocol revisions and in interpreting survey results.

The protocol is being distributed as a working version for use, field testing, and comment in 1998 and 1999. It will undergo peer review at the same time. Comments from field users will be very helpful in making the future versions of the protocol efficient and effective.

Although the protocol will likely be revised, projects surveyed according to this protocol will be considered as meeting the requirements of Component 2 until further notice.

Please address any questions to Cheryl McCaffrey (BLM), Sarah Madsen (FS R-6), or Paula Crumpton (FS R-5). They can be reached at: