Res 2023-126R approving amendments to an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement with Texas State University for the implementation of habitat improvement measures associated with the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan (2)

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2. Objective#2 - TWR and native plant installation 1. Enhance and restore TWR by focusing on selective gardening of non-native vegetation in mixed stands of TWR and removal of non-native vegetation in areas adjacent to existing TWR stands. In addition, include selective TWR planting in areas where non-native vegetation and sediment is removed in mixed stand areas, the University will remove the non-natives and monitor the original TWR stand for expansion. Similarly, for the TWR stands occupying optimal areas with adjacent non-native vegetation, remove the non-native plants and monitor the TWR for expansion. Finally, in optimal areas for TWR that are unoccupied by TWR, the University will remove any non-native vegetation that is present, plant TWR and monitor to assess the success of transplants. 2. Monitor replanted areas monthly to evaluate success rate and weed the treatment areas as needed. 3. Objective#3-Manage the Ka Recreation Measure.Hire and manage a team of seasonal workers for the purpose of educating river users and assisting with the monitoring and continuance of all San Marcos EAHCP measures. The minimum work schedule will be Thursday-Sunday and all holidays from May 1 st through September 20th for calendar years 2021 through March 31, 2028. 4. Objective#4 Removal of Floating Plants. Remove mats of floating vegetation and litter contained within, that are impacting the growth of native macrophytes. These mats may be removed or pushed, but all litter must be removed. Removed plants will be placed at a compost site to be determined by HCP Program Manager. 5. Permits. Comply with all federal and state permits acquired by the EAA as necessary to implement the scope of work included in this Agreement and incorporate any restrictions within these permits as part of the Objectives'protocols. In addition,the University will obtain local permits as needed. 6. Deliverables. Submit monthly reports to the City for review which will include details of all restoration efforts in terms of area of non-native vegetation removed, number of plants and area of TWR and native aquatic plants planted, and observation of effectiveness of non-native plant removal and native planting efforts. These reports will include specific recommendations on plant removal, and planting or gardening techniques as necessary to address effectiveness of these efforts. 7. Oualified Personnel. The Parties understand and expect that the work specified in this Agreement will be performed by scientists with education and experience in modeling and field studies who are able to determine the optimal conditions for TWR and other native plant success. 3