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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSWP272744(5) PLANNING/BUILDING/PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT U1�Y Renton City Hall 1055 South Grady Way, Renton, WA 98055 ♦ es ♦ ❑ UTILITY SYSTEMS DIVISION 425.430 7234 Fax: 425.430.7241 ❑ TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS DIVISION 425.430.7321 Fax: 425.430.7376 TO: DATE: 2 f, JOB No. t WE ARE SENDING YOU ❑ ATTACHED ❑ Under Separate Cover via the following items: ❑ SHOP DRAWING ❑ PRINTS ❑ REPRODUCABLE PLANS ❑ SPECIFICATIONS ❑ ORIGINALS ❑ COPY OF LETTER ❑ COPIES DATE NUMBER I DESCRIPTION / REMARKS MESSAGE: ve C.4`,41.c, These are transmitted as checked below: ❑ FOR SIGNATURE APPROVAL ❑ APPROVED AS SUBMITTED ❑ RESUBMIT COPIES FOR APPROVAL FOR YOUR USE ❑ APPROVED AS NOTED ❑ SUBMIT COPIES FOR DISTRIBUTION AS REQUESTED ❑ RETURNED FOR CORRECTIONS ❑ RETURN CORRECTED PRINTS ® FOR REVIEW AND COMMENT ❑ ❑ PRINTS RETURNED AFTER LOAN TO US Copies to: ' From: - IF ENCLOSURES ARE NOT AS NOTED, PLEASE NOTIFY US AT ONCE. PBPW5001 09/99 bh 3 March 7,2000 DATE jf Mr. Lawrence A. Johnson NAME INITIAL/ A E United States Department of Agriculture $ Ob Natural Resource Conservation Service n sba- 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99210-2348 SUBJECT: SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT -NRCS ASSISTANCE Dear Mr. Johnson: In response to your letter dated February 17, 2000, the City is still very much interested in working with NRCS on the Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement Project. As you point out, the Endangered Species Act(ESA) issues could certainly hold up permit issuance and delay construction beyond 2001. Although we cannot control these elements,the City is willing to provide assistance to secure permits for the project, including compliance with the ESA. In addition, we are willing to assume responsibility for some of the other design tasks, which may help speed up the design process and improve the prospects of constructing the project next year. We are willing to assist NRCS any way we can to accomplish this project. The City is eager to perform the work associated with Task 22 (hydraulic check) and portions of Task 21 (hydraulic design). In 1996, we updated the hydrologic/hydraulic modeling for Springbrook Creek, and could retain the engineering consultant that developed the original model for these tasks. The City could also provide some assistance with Task 14 (geotechnical investigation). As I understand it, the geotechnical investigation is complete and it's just a matter of pulling together any supplemental data, making design recommendations and completing the report. If NRCS were unable to provide a geologist, the City would hire a geotechnical consultant. Also, the City is willing to provide assistance achieving Task 34 (ESA consultation), though we need more detail regarding what is needed. It is extremely important to Qnsure that project planning, design, permitting, and ultimately construction, are done through careful coordination between the City, NRCS technical staff, and the permitting agencies. This project must be designed to&sure it will be permitted for construction. We want to work in partnership with NRCS to6sure that important design features are incorporated into the project design. I recommend that our technical staff representatives start working together to finalize the project detailed scope of work, task assignments and proceed working on this project. Any comments or questions, please call Ron Straka, Supervisor, Surface Water Utility Engineering,425-430-7248. Sincerely, Gregg Zimmerman,Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works cc: Rod DenHerder H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\2000-108.doc\GAZ\RJS\tb Annual/Annul Bare/Bear Assistance/Assistants Assistance (help or aid)—The project could not have been completed on time without your assistance. Assistants (people who aid or help a superior)—The consultant's staffing report indicates that our general manager should have three assistants. Assure/Ensure/Insure Assure (to promise; to make a positive declaration)—[ assure you that the loan will be repaid according to the terms specified in the note.Please assure the patient that this procedure is not painful. Ensure (to make certain)—To ensure the timely completion of this project, please hire additional qualified personnel. Insure (to protect against financial loss)—We insure all our facilities against earthquake damage. Attendance/Attendants r� Attendance (being present or attending)—At least two thirds of the members of this committee must be in attendance before the meeting can be called to order. Attendants (one who attends with or to others)—The attendants had difficulty rr� parking all the cars for such a large crowd. s� Averse: see Adverse. Awhile: see A while. Bad/Badly a Bad (an adjective or subject complement used after such intransitive or nonaction verbs as is, was, feel, look, or smell)—I feel bad that your transfer request was denied. Profits for the first quarter of this year look bad in view of the additional expenses incurred by our sales staff. The air in this office smells bad. Badly(an adverb used with transitive or action verbs)—We badly need the advice of a tax attorney before we invest further in this project. The defeated candidate behaved badly before thousands of television viewers. Bail/Bale Bail (guarantee of money necessary to see a person free from jail until the trial)— Bail in your client's case has been set at$5,000. r Bale (a large bundle)—One bale of used clothing was lost in transit. Bare/Bear �i Bare (uncovered, empty, plain, or mere)—The paint had chipped and peeled so badly that the bare wood was showing. After the break-in two offices were bare of furniture and equipment. Every summer our family spends two weeks in a bare wooden cabin in the mountains. I had time to cover only the bare facts involved in this issue. Bear (to support, carry, or bring forth)—Unfortunately, he had to bear the brunt of the losses. Our travel agency will secure for you guides who have donkeys to bear the luggage and provisions. As a result of the surgery, the patient was able to bear children. 145 CITY OF RENTON Planning/Building/Public Works Department J e Tanner,Mayor Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator March 7, 2000 Mr. Lawrence A. Johnson United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99210-2348 SUBJECT: SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT -NRCS ASSISTANCE Dear Mr.Johnson: In response to your letter dated February 17, 2000, the City is still very much interested in working with NRCS on the Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement Project. As you point out, the Endangered Species Act(ESA) issues could certainly hold up permit issuance and delay construction beyond 2001. Although we cannot control these elements,the City is willing to provide assistance to secure permits for the project, including compliance with the ESA. In addition, we are willing to assume responsibility for some of the other design tasks, which may help speed up the design process and improve the prospects of constructing the project next year. We are willing to assist NRCS any way we can to accomplish this project. The City is eager to perform the work associated with Task 22 (hydraulic check) and portions of Task 21 (hydraulic design). In 1996, we updated the hydrologic/hydraulic modeling for Springbrook Creek, and could retain the engineering consultant that developed the original model for these tasks. The City could also provide some assistance with Task 14 (geotechnical investigation). As I understand it, the geotechnical investigation is complete and it's just a matter of pulling together any supplemental data,making design recommendations and completing the report. If NRCS were unable to provide a geologist, the City would hire a geotechnical consultant. Also, the City is willing to provide assistance achieving Task 34 (ESA consultation), though we need more detail regarding what is needed. It is extremely important to ensure that project planning, design, permitting, and ultimately construction, are done through careful coordination between the City,NRCS technical staff, and the permitting agencies. This project must be designed to ensure it will be permitted for construction. We want to work in partnership with NRCS to ensure that important design features are incorporated into the project design. I recommend that our technical staff representatives start working together to finalize the project detailed scope of work, task assignments and proceed working on this project. Any comments or questions,please call Ron Straka, Supervisor, Surface Water Utility Engineering,425-430-7248. Sincerely, Gregg Zimmerman,Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works cc: Rod DenHerder H:DIVISION.MUTILITIE.S\D0�5�70b0g.0oc\g3aj&SWl py- Renton, Washington 98055 This paper contains 50%recycled material,20%post consumer ' RECEIVED GREGG IS ACTION MEMO FEB 2 3 2000 j C"'y OF TO: v yy DATE: Z ❑ Please Call uriury sys EMON El ROUTE TO: c ❑ For your Information ISSUE/CONCERN: U �� For Action ❑ For Signature ❑ Your Recommendation GOAL/(/ Q Per our Conversation PREFERRED OUTCOME: ❑ Per your Request ❑ Copies of this note sent to: , SPECIFIC DO'S OR DON'T/ FOLLOW UP: ❑ TICKLER FILE (date) ❑ COMPLETED (datc) RESULTS: DUE DATE: 3 0 forms/ACTM EM O 1.DOC/IAG/bh Date: February 17, 2000 Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator RECEIVED Planning, Building and Public Works Department F E B 2 1 2000 City of Renton 1055 South Grady Way CITY OF RENTON Renton, WA 98055 PUBLIC WORKS ADMIN. Dear Mr. Zimmerman: Thank you for your letter of January 26, 2000, requesting assistance in providing design services for the Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement Project. I have reviewed your requests with the Regional Design Staff. Subsequent to your letter of February 22, 1999, we moved forward with scheduling and committing Regional Design staff time for other requests in Washington State and other states. Due to the scheduling of those commitments and the complexity of your request, the attached schedule outlines the services that NRCS could provide for evaluation and design of this project phase. I believe that it is possible to make a contract award July 13, 2001; however, there are a couple of tasks outlined that may take considerably more time. Completion of Task 14 is dependent upon borrowing the NRCS Geologist from Oregon, and we have asked for a month of their time to finalize the geological investigation report. Completion of Task 34 is truly unknown: the Environmental Species Act (ESA) consultation may take up to 12 months. We will not know until we begin the consultation process. What can the city offer to the design and implementation effort regarding Tasks 14 and 34? These tasks are the two that we may need to partner on, given our limited resources. I must make you aware that Federal funding through the PL-566 program must be submitted by May 1, 2000; therefore, I will need to know if you are planning construction for the summer of 2001. Funding can be requested whether or not NRCS provides the technical services, but if a consultant is hired to complete the design, NRCS will need to review and approved the design, plans and specification before NRCS funding can be expended. In addition, NRCS approval would need to be completed before construction begins, if you are seeking PL-566 funding. The potential for funding this project phase could be increased if the City obtained local Congressional support. The Natural Resources Conservation Service works hand-in-hand with the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER ANDEMPLOYER Zimmermann2.doc:02/17/00:mas:wordwin 2 Please respond back to me if you still wish to proceed with your request for technical and financial assistance. If you have any questions, please call me at (509) 323-2955. Sincerely, LAWRENCE A. JOHNSON Engineering Team Leader Attachment Cc: Leonard Jordan, STC, NRCS, Spokane SO Kip Yasumiishi, RDTL, NRCS, Spokane SO March 7,2000 Mr. Lawrence A. Johnson United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99210-2348 SUBJECT: SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT -NRCS ASSISTANCE Dear Mr. Johnson: In response to your letter dated February 17, 2000, the City is still very much interested in working with NRCS on the Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement Project. As you point out, the Endangered Species Act(ESA) issues could certainly hold up permit issuance and delay construction beyond 2001. Although we cannot control these elements,the City is willing to provide assistance to secure permits for the project, including compliance with the ESA. In addition, we are willing to assume responsibility for some of the other design tasks, which may help speed up the design process and improve the prospects of constructing the project next year. We are willing to assist NRCS any way we can to accomplish this project. The City is eager to perform the work associated with Task 22 (hydraulic check) and portions of Task 21 (hydraulic design). In 1996, we updated the hydrologic/hydraulic modeling for Springbrook Creek, and could retain the engineering consultant that developed the original model for these tasks. The City could also provide some assistance with Task 14 (geotechnical investigation). As I understand it, the geotechnical investigation is complete and it's just a matter of pulling together any supplemental data,making design recommendations and completing the report. If NRCS were unable to provide a geologist, the City would hire a geotechnical consultant. Also, the City is willing to provide assistance achieving Task 34 (ESA consultation), though we need more detail regarding what is needed. It is extremely important to ensure that project planning, design, permitting, and ultimately construction, are done through careful coordination between the City, NRCS technical staff, and the permitting agencies. This project must be designed to ensure it will be permitted for construction. We want to work in partnership with NRCS to ensure that important design features are incorporated into the project design. I recommend that our technical staff representatives start working together to finalize the project detailed scope of work, task assignments and proceed working on this project. Any comments or questions,please call Ron Straka, Supervisor, Surface Water Utility Engineering,425-430-7248. Sincerely, Gregg Zimmerman,Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works cc: Rod DenHerder H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\2000-108.doc\GAZ\RJS\a i;; CITY OF RENTON Planning/Building/Public Works Department Jesse Tanner,Mayor Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator October 28, 1999 Rod DenHerder, P.E. Natural Resources Conservation Service United States Department of Agriculture 935 Powell Ave S.W. Renton, WA 98055 SUBJECT: Springbrook Creek Channel Widening and Habitat Improvement Project Dear Rod: I have reviewed the schedule for design, permitting and construction of the Springbrook Creek Widening Project. Enclosed is a copy ,of the original schedule with revisions and comments addressing timing issues and additional tasks. On the whole the schedule looks reasonable. I feel we should probably allow additional time for agency permit review. I've added two extra months on to Task 39 and included who will be responsible for each task and made modifications to the start times and duration of some tasks. The preliminary and final design tasks I've left alone as I assume you have a better idea of your staffing levels. We still need to decide who will prepare and advertise the bid package. There may be an advantage to NRCS advertising the project. One of the keys to a successful project will be to get the reviewing agencies onboard and involved with the design early in the project development. Involvement may include walking the site with the agencies and soliciting their input with regard to design. This will go a long way in fostering a productive relationship and ensure the permitting process is successful. It is also critical that the City be actively involved with the design process and be informed of any changes that effect the design and specifications. The City also wants some assurance that its requirements and goals are incorporated into the final product. Once again, the design must by consistent with the recommended channel improvements identified in the ESGRW Plan for Alternative SC3 - Element 2. After you've had the opportunity to review the schedule, lets set up a meeting before the end of the year to discuss the project. If you have any questions, please call me at 425-430-7247. Sincerely, &A pv� Allen Quyn/,:Pyroject Manager Surface Water Utility cc: Ron Straka enclosure H:\DI V IS ION.S\UTI LITIE.S\DOCS\1999\CURRENT\99-700.DOC 1055 South Grady Way-Renton,Washington 98055 9 This paper contains 50%recycled material,20%post consumer ESGR, P-1 Channel, SW 16th to SW 27th Street IQ Task Name -Duration 6/86 7/99 &99 9/99 10l99 11 l99 12/&9 1l00 2l00 3lOD 4/00 5/00 fi/00 7100 8100 9/00 10100 11/00 12/00 l i01 2/01 3!01 4101 5/01 6/01 7101 &01 9l01 10/01 34 5pecifications 1 ._._ 35 operation&Maintenance 7d 36 PERMITS — C G(L��> 150d 37 Prepare Application 2w \�. X 38 Permit Drawings 3w C( j \ 39 Permit Review 27ew -- J 40 NRCS Funding/Budget 484d 41 -2t10 f4RCS Budget Proc 26.4w 71-7 42 Budget Approved 1d = t1400 r 43 Project Agreement Devlpt hewi` r� �0�� �J✓l�rz/ (V/I /J� -' 5 \�� 44 Finalize Bid Package flew _.. 45 Sign PA 7 46 Advertize c �1✓< 30ed 47 Award' 4w 48-- Construction Start Id ' 4/9 A9 CONSTRUCTION 30w 20 t let r Project: Task Milestone * Robed Up Cask y Rolled Up Progress 4 Date:&=99 1 Page 2 Progress summary Robed Up Milestone V ESG:R, Pit Channel, SW16th to SW 27th Street 10 Task Nanie Duratloh �/99 13/9.9 9 9 1QlQg 1 is�9 121F39 1n0U 2lOp 3Iry0 A/00 5itl0 51Gp 7,00 aw �I00 i"t7lOQ 11/QO 12tCq 1/(11 2101 3iO4 A'01 5101 6N1 i101 $G'01 6�'pi 1aN11 1 2 -Land Rights Activities 125d ; +'��^tea Y�.'t%ikeNer '�"eVtr�+yullwY - 4 Hung=Dar,glas 25rar C.ty of Rentart 5 5extW Water Dept z wMEMO= _ d city of RgMtxl Drainage N'-Arictoi 2a er • � _ _ .: _..� . ...-.�,��...�n.,.«��-,�_. ,. - Cry R of ghat r t�s 'mot a i tDowSUrYBy ? ; dF i0 bgyIntofC3ritti►1g Ptah 2w ; = I! Geologic Investigatim 4w 1 i 2 WI mechankcs Tests hew 13 Geologlc Repoli 2ew N K l� > 14 r�€analysisreport eew lyrui61nary Cosign 60d i8 layout 1w 0neer,Taoh I k 3fter (_iIURGS /C► d r �-^. � 11 Hydrology Cheak iw 01004.fir!�owJl13E$T a Hydraulit check 2w De4n Engine CNI S) F.is Chan"GgnFrg(prtiittl) 3wN ,� OF esi ra inner -20 Preiiminax}+Dra�virys�'Spe 20don 101 ' raw 21 NIEPA EA 8 SA yl c 77dlob t 22 Endangered Species 1w Ehvx'ollnte�'ttal SIIet /�-� ) i '< 23 cuourw Resoures — / \1 1d nvir�irrer iIt N / } 94 W01t;nds 1w . Er�rn�ohir+�lal 6perialist ;�`/✓/�-�-5 _ as Develop Document 3d 26 Pu t MeetingsMeview 30ed rwln>ntr, listjl.lj A1411 3 27 Consultation 30ed 26 Final EAfFarsi 3d 29 Fed"Repister Wed r+r5ronmer�ka, �e to. a /V(L S) 30 FINAL DESI(* aw ' 31 Channel5tawity 2w 32 Final Layout 10d 33 Drawings 20d1poh Drafter C I z Prgea: Task "'"""'"""' Mlestone * Rolled Up Task [ '" ""� Rolled Up Progress Date:6/2ZV9 Page 1 Progress Summary Rolled Up Wldopowe <" - w r NRCS and CITY OF RENTON SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING SW 16TH ST. TO SW 23" ST. Tuesday,November 17, 1998 Meeting Minutes Attendees: NRCS: Steve Durgin,Rod Den-Herder City of Renton: Ron Straka,Allen Quynn • The City of Renton reviewed with NRCS the various capital improvement projects that have either been completed or are scheduled to be completed within the next few years. These improvements include: 1. (Design Completed) SW 23rd Street Drainage Improvements Project - Channel Improvements(P-9 Channel)from East Valley Road to Springbrook Creek. Construction to be completed in the Summer of 1999. 2. (Completed) SR-167 Culvert and SW 23rd street (P-9) Channel Improvements between SR-167 and East Valley Road. 3. (Completed)Olympic Pipeline Culvert Replacement. 4. (Completed)Channel improvements from SW 16th Street to the new Oakesdale Bridge. 5. (Next Summer) SW 27th Street Culvert Replacement. • NRCS will focus their efforts on the portion of Springbrook Creek between the new Oakesdale Bridge and the SW 23rd Street Drainage Channel. • Several issues were brought up that will need to be considered in the design. They are: 1. Drainage District No. 1 maintains a 40' right-of-way through the center of the channel. Any work within the R/W will require their authorization. 2. There is a 60-inch culvert which conveys flow from an existing drainage channel and storm drain system at 19th Street to Springbrook Creek. As part of the City's drainage improvement projects, the 60-inch culvert is to be removed to allow for some off site fish habitat. 3. The design will need to incorporate a pedestrian trail along the west bank of the creek. The trail will extend from the existing trail on the Boeing property to where to trail picks up in the vicinity of the ALL PAK property. � A - + R Page 3 Nov. 17th Mtg. Min. • NRCS will develop a project schedule to include critical path elements and milestones for preliminary design, permitting and final design. NCRS will be shooting for a preliminary design sometime in April with the final design and specs completed by October 1999. • Either the City or NRCS will be responsible for advertising the bid package. • Because the base mapping provide by the City did not include the new Oakesdale Bridge, NRCS indicated that they might be able to survey the bridge and channel improvements in-house. Thursday, November 19, 1998 Field Visit Meeting Minutes Attendees: NRCS: Steve Durgin,Rod Den-Herder,Janine Castro Renton: Allen Quynn • Discussed funding from the Army Corps of Engineers and King County for design and construction of fish habitat in portions of Upper and Lower Springbrook Creek as part of the Interlocal Agreement with the City of Renton. • The City also mentioned that King County may be able to obtain additional Federal funding as part or habitat im rovements alon Springbrook Creek • The City will try to get NRCS involved with any discussions with the Corps and King County related to Springbrook Creek habitat improvements. • City will provide City topo and aerial photogrammetry in AutoCAD release 14 along Springbrook Creek from SW 16th street to SW 43rd Street. SOv►^e 6-F <gt- C"'J'r H:DI V:UTI L:DOCS:98-801.DOC\AQ\TB 1 ., ,'W1.'0URRENGCE DATE 1. — -9 / NAME I 'WA V 11 v_ July 7, 1999 711 Honorable Slade Gorton (Same letter to Rep.Jennifer Dunn, Senator Patty Murray) U.S. Senate Washington, D.C. 20510-4701 SUBJECT: FUNDING FOR THE PL 566 WATERSHED PROGRAM Dear Senator Gorton: I am writing you to emphasize the importance of USDA's Small Watershed Protection and Flood Control Program (PL 83-566) to the City of Renton. The PL 566 Watershed Program has been an instrumental funding mechanism for the East Side Green River Watershed Project (ESGRWP). Historically, the PL 566 program provided funding assistance as far back as the 1960's when Renton, along with Auburn, Kent Tukwila and King County, agreed to participate as local sponsors to request Federal assistance for watershed protection and flood protection. SCS (now the Natural Resources Conservation Service, (MRCS)) as the lead Federal agency charged with implementing the PL 566 program, developed the East Side Green River Watershed Work Plan (ESGRWWP) in 1965. The plan provided recommendations to reduce flooding in the Green River Valley and improve fish and wildlife habitat and water quality. In the 1990's, the City of Renton updated the ESGRWP by incorporating several technical and environmental studies. The resulting plan identified additional flood control and habitat improvement projects in the valley. To date, over half of the projects identified in the plan have been completed; however, completion of the remaining projects is dependent upon the appropriation of Federal funding for the PL 566 Watershed Program. Because of the economic importance of providing flood protection and the need to improve fish habitat and water quality in response to the Endangered Species Act, continued Federal funding is crucial to insuring that the City of Renton has the necessary resources to complete the remaining elements in the plan. The citizens of Renton would appreciate any assistance you can provide regarding this matter. Sincerely, Jesse Tanner,Mayor cc: Leonard Jordon Larry Johnson Rod Den-Herder H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\1999\CURRENT\99-420.DOC/RJS/AQ/If USDA United States Natural 316 W. Boone Ave, Suite 450 Department of Resources Spokane,WA 99201-2348 Agriculture Conservation Service Phone 509-323-2900 Fax 509-323-2909 ATs s ^, ri Date: May 12, 1999 Greg Zimmerman MAY 1 819939 City of Renton Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator CITY OF RENTON 1055 South Grady Way PUBLIC WORKS ADMIN. Renton, Washington 98055 Dear Mr. Zimmerman; Funding for the PL 566 Watershed Program has been significantly reduced over the last decade. Annual national funding for Watersheds has been reduced by 75% over the past ten years. Recent funding allocations simply cannot meet the financial needs for ongoing watershed projects at the local and national level, which has effected funding for the East Side Green River Watershed Project. I would like to direct your attention to two articles (attached) published by the National Watershed Coalition in the "Watershed News" letter that may be of interest to you. The first article, "Lucas Introduces Rehabilitation Bill" discusses a bill that would provide funding for the rehabilitation of aging PL 566 structural watershed projects nearing their expected life. The second article, "Attention Watershed Project Sponsors!" outlines suggestions that you, as a PL 566 watershed project sponsor, can take to show your support of the program. This information should be helpful to you in assessing needs and developing actions to meet those needs through the watershed program. PL 566 Watershed Sponsorship and public support of the Watershed Program is needed in order for the program to continue to receive federal appropriations. There is much work left to accomplish in the State of Washington. The PL 566 watershed program provides sponsors an additional vehicle for accomplishing comprehensive watershed planning, watershed flood protection planning, assessing watershed health, and conservation of all of our natural resources. Sincerely, LEONARD JORDA State Conservationist Attachments cc: Joe Henry, District Conservationist The Natural Resources Conservation Service works hand-in-hand with the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER city of renton 050699.doc,97:laj:wordwin Z A Publication of the National Watershed Coalition Volume 10 January-February-March 1999 Issue 1 LUCAS REINTRODUCES An update on REHABILITATION BILL. issues concerning the Oklahoma Representative Frank D. addition to the Committees on Re Small Watershed Lucas(R-61 District)reintroduced his sources,and Transportation and Infra Small Watershed Rehabilitation Amend- structure,for a period to be subse- ments of 1999 in the U.S.House of quently determined by the Speaker,in Protection and Representatives on February 111', 1999. each case for consideration of such Flood Prevention He introduced the bill,which he had provisions as fall within the jurisdictions introduced in the 1051 Congress as H.R. of the committee concerned. Program 4409,on behalf of himself and Okla- homa Colleague Representative Wes A BILL Watkins. Both Lucas and Watkins have To amend the Watershed Protection been extremely supportive of the and Flood Prevention Act to authorize Inside problems facing Small Watershed project the Secretary of Agriculture to provide sponsoring organizations. The complete cost share assistance for the rehabilita • Attention Watershed text of the Bill is printed here for the use tion of structural measures constructed project Sponsors of project sponsors. In addition to as part of water resource projects asking your local Representatives and previously funded by the Secretary • Watershed Conference Senators to become co-sponsors of this under such Act or related laws. Nears much needed Bill,it would be nice if a Be it enacted by the Senate and number of sponsors wrote and thanked House of Representatives of the • ]dam Rehabilitation Representative Lucas for his efforts. United States ofAmerica in Address your letters to The Honorable Congress assembled, videos Available Frank D. Lucas,U.S.House of Represen- • ;spring Flooding tatives,438 CHOB,Washington,DC SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. 20515. There will likely be hearing on This Act may be cited as the Small • China's Three Gorges this Bill during this session of Congress. Watershed Rehabilitation Amendments Dam—and US Your National Watershed Coalition will of 1999'. volunteer to testify in its behalf. SECTION 2. REHABILITATION OF WATER RESOURCE STRUCTURAL 1061'CONGRESS MEASURES CONSTRUCTED UNDER 1st Session CERTAIN DEPARTMENT OF AGRI- H.R. 728 CULTURE PROGRAMS. To amend the Watershed protection The Watershed Protection and and Flood Prevention Act to authorize Flood Prevention Act, Public the Secretary of Agriculture to provide Law 83-566,(16 U.S.C. 1001 et cost share assistance for the rehabilita- seq.)is amended by adding at lion of structural measures constructed the end the following new as part of water resource projects section: previously funded by the Secretary `SECTION 14. REHABILITATION OF under such Act or related laws. STRUCTURAL MEASURES NEAR,AT, OR PAST THEIR EVALUATED LIFE IN THE HOUSE EXPECTANCY. OF REPRESENTATIVES `(a) DEFINITIONS-For purposes of February 11, 1999 this section: Mr.LUCAS of Oklahoma(for `(1) REHABILITATION-The himself and Mr.WATKINS)introduced term`rehabilitation',with the following bill;which was referred to the Committee on Agriculture,and in Continued on page 2 k1a te V;C-sd A we Continued from page 1 the Resource Conser- local organization for the respect to a structural vation and Develop- construction of a particular measure as part of a ment Program). rehabilitation project shall covered water resource `(3) ELIGIBLE LOCAL ORGA- be equal to 65 percent of project,means the comple- NIZATION-The term the total rehabilitation tion of all work necessary `eligible local organization' costs,but not to exceed to extend the service life of means a local organization 100 percent of actual the structural measure and or appropriate State construction costs incurred meet applicable safety and agency responsible for the in the rehabilitation. performance standards. operation and maintenance However,the local organi- This may include(A) of structural measures zation shall be responsible protecting the integrity of constructed as part of a for the costs of water, the structural measure,or covered water resource mineral,and other re- prolonging the useful life project source rights and all of the structural measure, `(4) STRUCTURAL MEASURE- Federal,State and local beyond the original The term`structural permits. evaluated life expectancy, measure' means a physical `(3) RELATION TO LAND USE (B)correcting damage to improvement that im- AND DEVELOPMENT the structural measure pounds water,commonly REGULATIONS-As a from a catastrophic event, known as a dam,which condition on entering into (C) correcting the deterio- was constructed as part of an agreement to provide ration of structural a covered water resource financial assistance under components that are project this subsection,the deteriorating at an abnor- `(b) COST SHARE ASSISTANCE Secretary,working in mal rate,or(D)upgrading FOR REHABILITATION- concert with the eligible the structural measure to `(1) ASSISTANCE AUTHO- local organization,may meet changed land use RIZED-The Secretary may require that proper zoning conditions in the watershed provide financial assistance or other developmental served by the structural to an eligible local organi- regulations are in place in measure or changed safety zation to cover a portion of the watershed in which criteria applicable to the the total costs incurred for structural measures to be structural measure. the rehabilitation of rehabilitated under the `(2) COVERED WATER structural measures agreement are located so RESOURCE PROJECT- originally constructed as that— The term`covered water part of a covered water `(A) the completed rehabili- resource project' means a resources project The tation project is not work of improvement total costs of rehabilitation quickly rendered carried out under any of include the costs associated inadequate by addi- the following: with all components of the tional development; `(A) This Act rehabilitation project, and `(B) Section 13 of the Act including acquisition of `(B) society can realize the of December 22, 1944 land,easements,and rights- full benefits of the (Public Law 78-534, of-ways,rehabilitation rehabilitation invest- 58 Stat 905). project administration,the ment `(C) The pilot watershed provision of technical `(c) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE program authorized assistance,contracting,and FOR WATERSHED PROJECT under the heading construction costs,except REHABILITATION-The `FLOOD PREVEN- that the local organization Secretary,acting through the TION'of the Depart- shall be responsible for Natural Resources Conserva- ment of Agriculture securing all land,ease- lion Service,may provide Appropriations Act, ments,or rights-of--ways technical assistance in planning, 1954(Public Law 156; necessary for the project designing and implementing 67 Stat 214). `(2) AMOUNT OF ASSIS- rehabilitation projects should `(D) Subtitle H of title XV TANCE;LIMITATIONS- an eligible local organization of the Agriculture and The amount of Federal request such assistance. Such Food Act of 1981, (16 funds that may be made assistance may consist of U.S.C.3451 et seq.; available under this specialists in such fields as commonly known as subsection to an eligible engineering,geology,soils, 2 January-February-March 1999 agronomy,biology, officer(or equivalent State organizations and appropriate hydraulics,hydrology,econom- official)to be involved in the State agencies. ics,water quality, and contract application process if State `(h) AUTHORIZATION OF APPRO- administration. permits or approvals are PRIATIONS-There are `(d) PROHIBITED USE` required. The rehabilitation of authorized to be appropriated (1) PERFORMANCE OF structural measures shall meet to the Secretary$60,000,000 OPERATION AND MAIN- standards established by the for each of the fiscal years 2000 TENANCE- Secretary and address other through 2009 to provide Rehabilitation assistance dam safety issues. At the financial and technical assis- provided under this section request of the eligible local tance under this section. may not be used to organization,personnel of the `(i) ASSESSMENT OF REHABILI- perform operation and Natural Resources Conserva- TATION NEEDS-Of the maintenance activities tion Service of the Department amount appropriated pursuant specified in the agreement of Agriculture may assist in to subsection(h)for the fiscal for the covered water preparing applications for years 2000 and 2001, resource project entered assistance. $5,000,000 shall be used by the into between the Secretary `(f) JUSTIFICATION FOR REHA- Secretary,in concert with the and the eligible local BILITATION ASSISTANCE-In responsible State agencies,to organization responsible order to qualify for technical or conduct an assessment of the for the works of improve- financial assistance under this rehabilitation needs of covered ment. Such operation and authority,the Secretary shall water resource projects in all maintenance activities shall require the rehabilitation States in which projects are remain the responsibility of project to be performed in the located. the local organization,as most cost-effective manner that `(j) RECORDKEEPING provided in the project accomplishes the rehabilitation AND REPORTS- work plan. objective. Since the require- `(1) SECRETARY-The `(2) RENEGOTIATION- ments for accomplishing the Secretary shall maintain a Notwithstanding paragraph rehabilitation are generally for data base to track the (1),as part of the provision public health and safety benefits derived from of financial assistance reasons,in many instances rehabilitation projects under subsection(b),the being mandated by other State supported under this Secretary may renegotiate or Federal laws,no benefit-cost section and the expendi- the original agreement for analysis will be conducted and tures made under this the covered water resource no benefit-cost ratio greater section. On the basis of project entered into than one will be required. The such data and the reports between the Secretary and benefits of and the require- submitted under paragraph the eligible local organiza- ments for the rehabilitation (2),the Secretary shall lion regarding responsibil- project shall be documented to prepare and submit to ity for the operation and ensure the wise and responsible Congress an annual report maintenance of the project use of federal funds. providing the status of when the rehabilitation is `(g) RANKING OF REQUESTS FOR activities conducted under finished. REHABILITATION ASSIS- this Section. `(e) APPLICATION FOR REHABILI- TANCE-The Secretary shall `(2) GRANT RECIPIENTS-Not TATION ASSISTANCE- An establish such system of later than 90 days after the eligible local organization may approving rehabilitation completion of a specific apply to the Secretary for requests,recognizing that such rehabilitation project for technical and financial assis- requests will be received which assistance is tance under this section if the throughout the fiscal year and provided under this application has also been subject to the availability of section,the eligible local submitted to and approved by funds to carry out this section, organization that received the State agency having as is necessary for proper the assistance shall make a supervisory responsibility over administration by the Depart- report to the Secretary the covered water resource ment of Agriculture and giving the status of any project at issue or,if there is no equitable for all eligible local rehabilitation effort State agency having such organizations. The approval undertaken using financial responsibility,the Governor of process shall be in writing,and assistance provided under the State. The Secretary shall made known to all eligible local this section.'. request the State dam safety January-February-March 1999 3 Al eve-44d Alews ATTENTION WATERSHED PROJECT SPONSORS! You have some work to do! Your National Watershed Coali- YOU, can this most remarkable would like to see the program tion (NWC) leadership just completed conservation program continue to be modified to address additional a most successful spring Steering revived to its proper position. Follow- objectives, let them know. If Committee meeting and legislative ing is a suggested list of things that if three or four of you visit your workshop in Washington, DC. While you are not doing on a regular basis local representatives on a single it was successful in that a lot is in your watershed, we would suggest issue, that information is sent to happening that benefits watershed you start doing. Tear this page out of Washington, and members of project sponsors, we also learned that WATERSHED NEWS, and use it as a congress do react too many of you have fallen silent checklist of your accomplishments. • When your local member of over the years. Our congressional Modify and add to this list as suits congress is home working in their leadership, while they might want to your local watershed needs. If there is district, give them a tour of your support watershed activities, receive one thing we learned while in Wash- watershed to ensure they under- little indication from those in their ington, it is we have been silent and stand its benefits and your needs. states and districts that watershed relying on others to carry our message Bring along the news media and conservation should be a priority. far too long. Making "noise" is our other community leaders. Do this They do hear from the NWC, and job, and we are not doing it. Every at least annually. encourage that, but they also need to Small Watershed sponsoring group • Establish a relationship with your hear directly from you. We also needs to be visible and active on a local state Senators and Represen- learned, much to our dismay, that in regular basis. Once a year is not tatives. Don't hesitate to let your many places in the U.S., regular enough. We don't have to go to Governor's office know of the communication and work with your Washington, DC to be seen; regular issues important to you. Don't local Natural Resources Conservation visits to our local political offices are ever forget that your Governor Service (NRCS) official, usually the very effective. was the one, working through District Conservationist, has been SUGGESTIONS your state water resource or irregular or in some cases discontin- 1.Legislative education and informa- conservation agency, who origi- ued. We are aware that some folks tion nally petitioned the federal have labored under the misconception • Contact your federal Senators and government for watershed that the "Small Watershed Program Representative and ask them to planning and implementation was dead." It is time we turned that support the passage of H.R. 728, assistance in your watershed. belief around! NRCS is working to do the Small Watershed Rehabilita- They should be aware of your that, and so should we. Many people tion Amendments of 1999. Write needs, and helpful as you carry and agencies are finally discovering to them in Washington, and visit out your responsibilities. the watershed, and the Small Water- their local district offices and ask 2.Public education and information shed Program is one of the most for this support This should be a • If you are in the area of a com- flexible means available to accomplish high priority for every watershed pleted watershed project, have natural resource conservation goals. news stories ready so that after Yet we are not constantlyremindin project sponsor. g • Make it a point to visit your each period of significant rainfall people that we have this vehicle, or in your watershed, you can federal Senators and Representa- that we have a watershed project that tives in their local district offices provide your local news media could be used to accomplish further with a story of the damages the on a regular basis, at least once soil and water objectives. The NWC every four months, and tell them project prevented. Ask your local would like to suggest that during the of those watershed issues that NRCS staff conservationist to next six months, all watershed project effect your project. If federal assist in preparing the "shell" for sponsors make a real effort to be more these stories. Each story should cost-sharing funds for completing visible in their community and with your project seem to have dried be tailored to the specific event their state and local legislators. Only up, let them know that. If you that occurred. if elected officials start hearing from First law of blissful ignorance; "what I traveled to the end of the rainbow The right suit won't get you into the you don't know will always hurt you." As Dame Fortune did intend boardroom, but the wrong one will Murphy would be there to tell me keep you out. The pot's at the other end. Bert Whitney 4 Jan uary-February-March 1999 • Conduct regular watershed tours representatives of NRCS and • Is there some other watershed for members of the news media, every one of your project's interest group that has sprung up local community leaders, and original sponsoring group, to take in your community? A group students. These tours could be part in the annual operation and such as a "watershed council?" designed to educate people as to maintenance (0&M) inspections. Why not ask them to join forces the benefits they receive from Let them see the condition of with you? Their ideas may be these projects, and also describe those things that are protecting valuable to your district. the responsibilities and needs of them. Don't be afraid to let them The above are only suggestions the project's sponsors. see problems. They can help with and ideas you might consider. Your • Regularly "spread the word" the fixes. watershed leaders can surely improve concerning the benefits of your • Invite your local NRCS staff to on this list. The suggestion is that project. Use news feature stories, accompany you on field trips to every watershed project sponsor reprints of related articles, videos observe construction and 0&M immediately be more visible with their showing your accomplishments activities. "Kick dirt and get your political leaders and in their commu- and operating procedures, hands dirty together," on occa- nity. We have hidden our accomplish- presentations that can be shared sion. Help your NRCS staff stay ments and needs from view for too with other community organiza- in touch with what happens in the long. If the watershed program is to tions, using the latest methods field and the needs in your be revitalized, that MUST change. such as PowerPoint, etc. Stories watershed project. Your watershed district officials are must be technically accurate and • In the next few months,your the best watershed program ambassa- not "puffery" pieces. Make NRCS State Conservationist will dors. Our influence counts, but only educating the community an submit a budget request for the if we use it, and soon! ongoing, regular activity. If they Small Watershed Program for know your needs and responsibili- your state. They would welcome ties, and see the benefits they your assistance in setting priori- receive, they will be supportive ties and reassessing your needs. "A democracy cannot survive as a politically when needed. 4.Other more specific community permanent form of government • Prepare radio and TV public activities It can last only until its citizens service spots that tell your story. • Consider sponsoring a "know discover that they can vote • Get your watershed project's your (name of watershed)water- themselves largess from the "facts and figures" before the shed" week. You could have public treasury. From that public regularly. Have your local tours, educational activities, ask moment on,the majority will vote NRCS District Conservationist for suggestions on watershed for the candidates promising the assist in assembling this informa- needs and management from the greatest benefits from the public tion. community, express your needs to purse,with the result that • Identify specific local project the community, and acquaint the democracy will always collapse needs and publicize them. community with your district and from loose fiscal policies, • Contact the professional Public its responsibilities. Ask your followed by a dictatorship." Affairs Specialists employed by other watershed project sponsors British historian Lord Macaulay the NRCS or your state water and partners such as NRCS to Sign in a General Motors' Dayton resource or conservation agency, join in this. Have some objective Ohio research laboratory; "The to assist in telling your story. and announce the week's accom- problem when solved,will be These professionals can increase plishments to the community. simple." your effectiveness. • Consider sponsoring some sort of • Take a local news reporter to the watershed awards program with "We trained very hard. But it field. Help them with a story. the local schools in the watershed. seemed that every time we were • Conduct school educational Have students undertake a beginning to form into teams,we programs on your watershed. specific watershed project, and would be reorganized. I was to 3.Partnership relationships recognize all those that do. learn that later in life we tend to • Reacquaint your local NRCS staff • Have you considered things like meet any new situation by with your activities (hopefully this "bumper stickers" that might reorganizing. And what a will not be needed). convey a timely message? They wonderful method it can be for • If your local NRCS staff has not are inexpensive and effective. creating the illusion of progress been attending your regular • Is there anything that merits a while producing confusion, watershed or conservation district general mailing to your watershed inefficiency,and demoralization. meetings, re-invite them. constituents? Stay in their Gaius Petronius Arbiter • Invite local news media and thoughts. What is important to (First Century A.D.) community leaders, along with your community? January-February-March 1999 5 Mew WATERSHED CONFERENCE NEARS The NWC's Sixth National Resources Conservation Service, the goodness for printed proceedings to Watershed Conference to be held in Elm Creek Watershed Authority, the refer to later! Austin, itself, is sure to Austin,Texas, May 16-19, is fast Texas Association of Watershed attract many of you. There is the approaching. Its theme is "Getting the Sponsors and several individuals, this Texas State Capitol, the University of Job Done at the Ground Level," promises to be a memorable water- Texas, the LBJ Library, Barton emphasizing the local leadership shed conference. The Sunday water- Springs, and all the music! If some- necessary to make watershed projects shed tours we have arranged are how you did not receive a notice of successful. From the looks of hotel filling up fast. The Monday Texas this conference and are interested, reservations, phone calls, etc., it could night on Lake Austin will be an event contact John Peterson at 703-455- attract the largest attendance we have to remember. And then there is the 6886/4387, fax. 703-455-6888, email. ever experienced. With the planning conference,where we have over 70 of jwpeterson@erols.com. John can get that has gone into making this a first the most widely respected watershed you a conference packet Hotel class event, and the assistance we experts and educators making presen- reservations must be made by April have received from the Lower Colo- tations. It will be hard to decide 16t', and conference registration by rado River Authority, the Natural which session to attend. Thank May 11. See you in Austin in May! DAM REHABILITATION VIDEOS AVAILABLE After a year's effort on the part of behalf of himself and Oklahoma Both these videos place the spotlight many organizations concerned with Representative Wes Watkins, intro- on the public health and safety issues the safety of small dams, a 15-minute duced H.R. 728, the Small Watershed involved. People interested copies of video has been produced publicizing Rehabilitation Amendments of 1999 in either video may do so by contacting the issues. The video is the work of the House of Representatives. H.R. the NWC at 9405 Lundy Court, Burke, the National Watershed Coalition 728 would provide some cost sharing VA 22015-3431, tel. 703-455-6886/ (NWC),Association of State Dam and technical assistance to watershed 4387, fax. 703-455-6888, email. Safety Officials (ASDSO), Land project sponsors facing rehabilitation jwpeterson@erols.com. Improvement Contractors of America problems and the need to upgrade (LICA), National Association of structures to current standards. Conservation Districts (NACD), in WATERSHED NEWS readers who "Because power corrupts, cooperation with the Natural Re- have access to the Internet may get society's demands for moral sources Conservation Service copies of H.R. 728 by visiting: http:// conduct and character increase (NRCS), USDA. The video was thomas.loc.gov/home/thomas.htmi . as the importance of the produced by Telestrella Productions, Type in H.R. 728 in the window position increases." Inc., Dunkirk, MD. Scenes in the video provided and you will get a copy of John Adams 2nd president of the U.S. were from throughout the U.S., but the bill (this is also a useful tool for particularly from GA, OK, IA, WV and following other federal legislation in VA. This very graphic video is- which you may have an interest). The intended to educate and encourage NWC supports H.R. 728, and would Three engineering watershed project sponsors in dealing encourage readers of WATERSHED students were discussing the the issues they face as sponsors, NEWS to contact their Senators and possible designers of the educate the public on the safety issues representatives and obtain their human body. involved and encourage their support support One said,"It was a in this infrastructure upgrading effort Telestrella Productions, Inc. is mechanical engineer,just look that must take place, and educate our located at 3632 Yellow Bank Road, at all the joints." legislators at every level as to the real Dunkirk, MD, 20754-9340. Their Another said,"No,it was issues involved so as to obtain their phone no. is 301-855-8826 and fax is an electrical engineer. The support Estimates of the need for 410-257-5771, email is nervous system contains many rehabilitation of our nations 10,400+ telestrella@erols.com. Telestralla thousands of Electrical Small Watershed Dams have ranged specializes in agricultural, conserva- connections." from $500 to $600 million. Many of lion television programs and videos. The last said,"Actually it the sponsors of these projects simply Their television producer is Ronald K. was a civil engineer. Who else do not have the technical or financial Hamilton. would run a toxic waste resources to handle this task by NRCS has also produced a four- pipeline through a recreational themselves. Recently, U.S. Represen- minute video highlighting certain area?" tative Frank Lucas of Oklahoma, on aspects of this rehabilitation issue. 6 January-February-March 1999 SPRING FLOODING 1999 Where are the 1999 spring floods, North Dakota and Devil's Lake, N.D. The annual spring flood forecast which come as regularly as spring itself, Frank D. Richards, head of the Weather also noted:- going to be the most damaging? Service's Hydrologic Information • Slightly higher than normal flood According to the Associated Press, the center,said the maximum expected potential in northern New England, Red River of the North,which produced crest would fall short of the level of including parts of Maine, New devastating floods in 1997, is again the 1997, and the primary threat is from Hampshire and Vermont main concern. And USDA Natural Grand Forks north. • Moist soil conditions in Kentucky and Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) "There is greater than average southern Indiana susceptible to snow surveyors and forecasters say potential this spring for flooding in flooding from moderate to heavy deep snowpacks in Idaho and the Oregon and Washington east of the rains. Pacific Northwest could also pose a Cascades, as well as in Idaho and • Very wet conditions in western threat adjacent streams in Oregon and Washington and Oregon. On March 17th,John J. Kelley Montana," Richards said. But dry • Growing indications that flooding (Kelly is appropriate for St Patrick's conditions may result in water concerns may be possible in the Klamath basin Day), director of the National Weather for Southern California,Arizona. New of Oregon and California. Service said "Floods will occur this year Mexico, southern Utah,western Texas • Localized areas on the east slopes of in this nation. Now is the time to be and Hawaii. the Sierra Nevada in Nevada and thinking about what to do when the "Every spring, short-lived California may have flood potential warning comes." downbursts cause flash floods," Kelley depending on the pattern of warming Each year, floods kill 100 to 140 said. This type of rapid onset, localized and the amount of rainfall. Americans and do an average of$4.5 flooding can even strike areas that are As a general statement,where billion in damage,accounting for three- considered extremely dry." While flood Small Watershed Projects have been quarters of presidential disaster warnings have improved to an average installed, flood damages are reduced declarations, Kelly said. of 54 minutes, Kelley said, "Our and the need for federal disaster The area of greatest flooding warnings mean nothing if people don't assistance is lessened potential is along the Red River in take appropriate action." CHINA'S THREE GORGES DAM-AND US China's Three Gorges Dam,which mark a significant defeat for Li, now the face of the United States,American has been controversial to say the least, chairman of China's parliament Li's technicians were advising China. After is now experiencing some criticism from allies at the Water Resources Ministry China's 1949 Communist revolution, within. China's official press has been have backed the project the dam became the obsession of some publishing articles criticizing one of the The project is facing difficulties in Chinese technicians. world's largest public works projects financing; it is$3 billion short of the The project is full of superlatives. calling into question its funding as well $9.7 billion needed for the second It will have one of the highest ship as efforts to relocate nearly 2 million phase of construction set to be com- elevators in the world, 370 feet from residents whose homes and farmland pleted in 2003. The total cost of the top to bottom. At 412 miles long its will be submerged as the mighty dam will reach $24.5 billion by the time reservoir will be one of the worlds Yangtze River is blocked and a 400• of its scheduled completion in 2010. biggest, holding 28.8 billion cubic yards mile-4ong reservoir is created. China's A"land shortage"has emerged for of water. When finished the dam is Finance Ministry has long opposed the the project's planners. Local areas lack supposed to generate more electricity project because of its expense. the capacity to absorb the farm families than any other in the world- 18,200 No one expects that the project being moved from the dam's flood megawatts. It will span 6,600 feet outside the city of Yichang, 700 miles plain, and efforts to find land elsewhere across the Yangtze and will rise more southwest of Beijing,will be shelved. have not yet begun. Officials have also than 600 feet above the river bottom, Its first cofferdam was in place by 1997, seriously underestimated the number of But the dam will also force at least but some Chinese observers have said sites containing cultural resources that 1.8 million people from their homes. It construction could be scaled back. The will be submerged as a result of the will flood the banks of one of China's project is highly sensitive politically project most beautiful waterways and submerge because it is associated with the The idea of damming the Yangtze countless temples and other cultural fortunes of Li Peng, China's former stretches back to the early part of this sites. And no substantial water treat- premier and a longtime supporter of the century and China's first president Sun ment system is in place above the dam, interests of China's power industry. Yat-sen. In the 1930s,when massive although the World Bank has begun Any scaling down of the project would public works projects were changing Continued on page 8 January-February-March 1999 7 41a tesd/1/cws Continued from page 7 $1.00 of cost(and the costs are shared good! Something is wrong here! funding construction of a waste between the federal, state and local The president proposes only about treatment plant in Chongqing, a governments, they are not massive $85 million for USDA's watershed municipality of 30 million people. federal projects). Where we have activities, down from the $101+ million Chongqing and dozens of other experienced large floods in recent of last year. The NWC believes that a adjoining cities and towns will pour years,the Midwest in 1993 and Texas viable national watershed program hundreds of billions of gallons of waste in 1998, serve as examples of where requires about$250 million per year. into the reservoir each year. small watershed projects have been Think about those numbers in relation- Why is this project of interest to installed, flood damages were greatly ship to the Three Gorges costs. We are WATERSHED NEWS and its readers? reduced and the need for federal fortunate to have benefited from the The National Watershed Coalition has disaster assistance has been reduced. foresight of those who passed this long supported the concept of up- Again, this is not to denigrate the original watershed legislation, but we stream, rural, small watershed projects, potential need for larger public works seem to no longer have any interest in in the hopes that the need for some of projects that benefit society, but to one of the best watershed conservation the more massive larger projects might argue that before we undertake such programs ever developed anyplace in be decreased. We have supported the large projects we do all we can in the the world. notion of trying to "keep the raindrops upstream watersheds. For some What is YOUR watershed,conser- as close to where they fall as possible," reason,in the U.S. today,the federal vation, or other special purpose starting with local leadership, good land government seems to have lost interest watershed organization doing to change management practices, and finally in such beneficial works if federal this dangerous situation? Your voices smaller upstream structures when non- budgets are any indication. It seems to count,but only if you use them. The structural means cannot achieve flood WATERSHED NEWS that any under- NWC does a great deal on the national damage reduction objectives. takings that actually return more level, but for years individual watershed We print this article in no way to benefits to society than they cost districts have been silent It's time to demean the objectives and activities of should be encouraged. As of this make your voices heard! If you desire a the Chinese, but to reinforce how well writing,the president's budget for the copy of the NWC testimony on the our Small Watershed Programs(PL 78- nation's Small Watershed Programs is federal FY 2000 watershed budgets, 534 and PL 83-566) have served us again being reduced. And we continue contact NWC Executive Director John here in the U.S. Here we have pro- to read that our federal coffers are Peterson at the address at the back of grams that have historically produced awash in money, as the economy is so this newsletter. $2.20 in benefits to society for every Prepared by the National Watershed Coalition and National Association of To comment on this newsletter,write to Conservation Districts. Distributed to John W.Peterson,National Watershed watershed sponsors,presidents a state The Watershed News Coalition,9304 Lundy Court, Burke,VA associations of conservation districts, may be reproduced 22015-3431.You contact John at tele- phone(703)455 6886,FAX-(703) 455 state conservation agencies;NACD without permission, officers,directors and staff,and others. provided credit is given. 6888,or e-mail-jwpeterson@erols.com. WATERSHED NEWS NATIONAL WATERSHED COALITION AND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CONSERVATION DISTRICTS 9304 Lundy Court Burke, VA 22015-3431 CONCIMR NCE DATE January 26,2000 NAME INITIA /DATE Leonard Jordan U.S Department of Agriculture 6,{-Nninsht� NRCS, State Conservationist ( Frn►nmQ r. Rocke Point Tower I1 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE REQUEST FOR THE SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT-PART II Dear Mr. Jordan: The City of Renton would again like to formally request NRCS assistance in providing design services for the Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement Project. The City had requested design assistance in 1998, but due to previous commitments,NRCS was unable to dedicate a design team to the project. In the summer of 1998, Rod DenHerder,of the NRCS regional office in Renton, informed the City that NRCS staff would be available to begin work on the design. The City has outlined, in the attached letter dated February 22, 1999, specific services required to complete the design phase. For planning purposes,we are requesting NRCS provide us a schedule of NRCS design staff s anticipated availability to begin the design. The City looks forward to having your assistance in making this a productive year. Sincerely, Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator cc: Lys Hornsby Ron Straka Rod DenHerder,NRCS Lary Johnson NRCS Allen Quynn H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\2000-030.doc\tb .• - > CITY OF RENTON Planning/Building/Public Works Department Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator Jesse Tanner,Mayor January 26, 2000 Leonard Jordan U.S Department of Agriculture NRCS, State Conservationist Rocke Point Tower II 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE REQUEST FOR THE SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT-PART II Dear Mr. Jordan: The City of Renton would again like to formally request NRCS assistance in providing design services for the Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement Project. The City had requested design assistance in 1998, but due to previous commitments,NRCS was unable to dedicate a design team to the project. In the summer of 1998, Rod DenHerder,of the NRCS regional office in Renton, informed the City that NRCS staff would be available to begin work on the design. The City has outlined, in the attached letter dated February 22, 1999, specific services required to complete the design phase. For planning purposes,we are requesting NRCS provide us a schedule of NRCS design staff's anticipated availability to begin the design. The City looks forward to having your assistance in making this a productive year. Sincerely, ',X i Gregg ZiiY an, Administrator cc: Lys Hornsby Ron Straka Rod DenHerder,NRCS Larry Johnson NRCS Allen Quynn HAD I V IS ION.S\U'FILITI E.S\DOCS\2000-03 0.doc\tb 1055 South Grady Way- Renton, Washington 98055 ®This paper contains 50%recycled material.20%post consumer CITY OF RENTON Planning/Building/Public Works Department WILL Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator Jesse Tanner,Mayor February 22, 1999 Lawrence A. Johnson U.S. Department of Agriculture NRCS, Engineering Team Leader Rock Pointe Tower I1 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE FOR SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING PROJECT Dear Mr. Johnson: This letter is in response to your letter dated December 9, 1998, expressing concern over NRCS's role in providing design services for the Springbrook Channel Widening Project. As part of the East Side Green River Watershed Plan (ESGRWP),the City has identified several improvements within the Springbrook Creek watershed that, if implemented, will reduce flooding in the valley as well as provide beneficial fish habitat. Specifically, these improvements targeted portions of lower Springbrook Creek and the 23rd Street drainage channel(also known as the P-1 channel and P-9 channel). SW 23rd Street Channel (P-9 Channel) Last summer, the City completed the first phase of channel improvements along the SW 23rd Street drainage channel, which was the construction of a new box culvert to replace two undersized CMP culverts. These culverts were acting as a drainage restriction resulting in upstream flooding during high flow events. The SW 23rd street channel improvements are also needed to accommodate flow from the Panther Creek and Panther Creek Wetland, as recommended in the ESGRW Plan Alternative 23ST2 - Element 2. The second phase, which will be completed this summer, consists of channel clearing and vegetation removal as well as habitat plantings. In cooperation with WSDOT,the City provided funding assistance for design and construction of a 72 inch culvert and fish ladder across SR-167 along with downstream channel improvements between SR-167 and East Valley Road (SW 23rd Street Drainage Channel). This improvement is identified as Alternative 23ST - Element 1 in the,ESGRW Plan. The culvert and fish ladder were installed in October of last year with the remaining work, such as habitat plantings and restoration, to be completed this spring. With the new culvert in place and functioning, the City can proceed with a future project to redirect flows from Panther Creek into the Panther Creek Wetlands just upstream of the culvert. These improvements are part of the P-9 channel improvements that were identified in the NRCS East Side Green River Watershed Plan. This ing along East Valley Road and with higher water levels action will significantly reduce the flood in the wetland, provide fish habitat for rearing and storm refuge. 1055 South Grady Way - Renton, Washington 98055 6NTk—.,.—,rnntalns 50%recycled material,20%post consumer s Page 2 February 22, 1999 Lower Springbrook Creek The ESGRWP recommended several channel and culvert improvements along Springbrook Creek. The channel improvements were identified for the channel sections between SW 16th Street and SW 23rd Street and between SW 30th Street and SW 40th Street (ESGRWP Alternative SO - Element 2). Last summer the City completed construction of 500 feet of channel improvements between SW 16th Street and the new Oakesdale bridge. These improvements included substantial widening of the channel above the ordinary high water mark and installation of woody debris and habitat plantings on the banks. Currently, the City is in the design phase of an improved culvert crossing at SW 27th Street (ESGRWP Alternative SC2 - Element 1). The new box culvert will replace two existing CMP culverts that are a major restriction to flows and should substantially reduce water surface elevations upstream of SW 27th Street. Construction is tentatively planned for this summer. Request for NRCS Technical Assistance With the completion of the channel work between SW 16th Street and the new Oakesdale Bridge, the City now plans to direct its efforts toward the design of the remaining section of the channel from the new Oakesdale bridge to the 23rd Street drainage channel. However, as NRCS has expressed an interest in providing design assistance, it may be appropriate at this time to outline a request for services for this project. The City requests that the basis for design be consistent with the recommended channel improvements identified in the ESGRWP Alternative SO - Element 2. Specific request for services to be provided by NRCS are listed below: 1. Design assistance for channel improvements from the Oakesdale Bridge to SW 23rd Street (P-9 Channel). 2. Complete set of construction contract drawings to include plan, profile and sections. 3. Hydraulic calculations demonstrating that design will meet the objectives outlined in the ESGRWP. 4. Construction contract technical specifications. 5. Permitting assistance. 6. Provide a budget and schedule to include critical path elements and milestones for preliminary design, permitting and final design. The City will be responsible for land acquisition and is willing to be the contracting Agency unless NRCS would prefer to take on this effort. We expect NRCS to coordinate continuously with us during the design process to ensure that City requirements and goals are incorporated into the project final design. H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\1999\99-081.DOC\AQ\tb Page 3 February 22, 1999 This list is a general guideline. A meeting between the City and NRCS may be necessary to work out specific task responsibilities. Other Projects In addition to the aforementioned projects, the City of Renton is working with Ilie U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, King County and local jurisdictions on several habitat restoration projects as part of an Ecosystem Restoration Study. As a co-sponsor, the City is funding a portion of the design jointly with the Army Corps of Engineers, the County and other jurisdictions. It is anticipated the bulk of the construction funding will come from the Army Corps of Engineers. These improvements involve three potential sites along Upper and Lower Springbrook Creek that would provide the best opportunity for habitat restoration One site is located on Upper Springbrook creek between SR-167 and the S. 192nd Street crossing. The proposed project would add woody debris in 1000 feet of channel and establish a buffer between the road and the creek to allow enhancement of the riparian zone through plantings. The other two sites are located along Lower-Springbrook'Creek between SW 43rd Street and Oakesdale Ave and SW 30th Street and SW 23rd Street. These projects would involve similar habitat improvements as the Upper Springbrook Creek project,-,selective placement of instream structures such as root wads,tree plantings and shrubs. After evaluating the alternatives, the Army Corps of Engineers recommended that it would be desirable to look at habitat improvements along the entire stretch of the upper and lower Springbrook Creek from S. 192nd Street to the Green/Duwamish River. By treating the various independent projects as one continuous project spanning the entire reach, the Corps believes the habitat benefits can be greatly increased. This would mean that there may be some overlap with ,any design and construction work NRCS may provide between the Oakesdale Bridge and SW 23rd Street. This overlap, however, would only involve habitat enhancement and will be minimized to the extent that it will augment,whatever NRCS-incorporates into its design. The City of Renton will ensure that the Corps and NRCS work closely in the design and review process. H ADI V I SION.S\UTILITI E.S\DOCS\1999\99-081.DOC\AQ\tb Page 4 February 22, 1999 I hope this letter has helped to clarify our understanding of NRCS's involvement with the implementation of the Eastside Green River Watershed Project improvements that are planned for the next two or three years. The ESGRWP also identifies other improvements that we hope NRCS will agree to provide federal assistance on in the future. Thank you for your interest and support in these projects. If you have any questions, please call Ron Straka at 425-430-7248. Sincerely, Uhl I Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works cc: Rod Den-Herder H:\DI V ISION.S\UTILITI E.S\DOGS\1999\99-081.DOC\AQ\tb USDA United States Natural 316 W. Boone Ave, Suite 450 Department of Resources Spokane,WA 99201-2348 Agriculture Conservation Service Phone 509-323-2900 Fax 509-323-2909 Date: December 9, 1998 Orec I Zimmerman, Ndministrator Planr cig, Building and Public Works Dept 200 Mil' Avenue South Renton WA 98055 Dear Mr. Zimmerman: The purpose of this letter is to request written clarification of NRCS's role for providing technical assistance on the design of the P-1 and P-9 channels, and the Panther Creek Wetlands. As you know, last year we met with you to discuss your technical assistance needs. It was our understanding that you were asking us to provide technical and design assistance for all phases of the above projects. After returning from a meeting with you, Steve Durgin, a member of my staff, reported that you have already started design efforts on the P-9, as well as the P-1 channel (from P-9 to the city limits). Please respond with a letter of clarification that states what type of technical as, istance you need. At this point in time, we are concerned about moving forward on our design efforts because we are not sure as to what your expec.ations are. If you are interested in receiving any potential Federal dollars from the Small Watershed Operations Program (WF-08), NRCS will need to review and approve your designs before actual construction begins. Additionally, if NRCS provides technical assistance on the P-1 channel (from the Oaksdale Bridge up to tht: P-9 channel), we will need to take a look at the technical merits of the design as a whole for all the projects mentionec:. We want to ensure the design maintains the structural integrity of the P-1 and P-9 channels, so the downstream sections that we have already paid in cost share will function as intended. If yv: t0 discuss this vJlth me, plcc;a5c don't h JIL L L give me a Gail. LAWRENCE A. JOHNSON Engineering Team Leader CC: Frank Easter, WPTL, NRCS, Spokane SO Joe Henry, DC, Renton FO Ron Shavlik, FSL, Lacey, WA Rod DenHerder, CE, Renton FO Ron Straka, City of Renton The Natural Resources Conservation Service works hand-in-hand with the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER CtyRenton.doc:12/09/98.MAS.wordwin l 1 j 1 � , `.I � .� ��� i `\ j \ % \ \v, �� \�' �' \ i I �. �`� �� �� ,, �����' 1�: ` '°' , i f { Av CONCURRENCE L��-/�—�`� February 19, 1999 DATE J �\ NAME INI Ar TE h Lawrence A. Johnson ' GA sZ aka� Z 7 7Engineering Team Leader r� 6 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 z�,m�rc�.nan pokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE FOR SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING PROJECT ® ,L Dear Mr. Johnson: Ov� This letter is in response to your letter dated December 9, 199,/'pressing concenrl/o�NRCS's el e role in providing design services for the Springbrook Channning Project. lll/// As part of the East Side Green River Watershed Plan (ESGRWP), the City has identified several improvements within the Springbrook Creek watershed tha6if implemented, will reduce flooding in the valley as well as provide beneficial fish habitat. Specifically, these improvements targeted portions of lower Springbrook Creek and the 23rd Street drainage channel (also known as the P-1 channel and P-9 channel). SW 23rd Street Channel(P-9 Channel) Last summel the City completed the first phase of channel improvements along the SW 23rd Street drainage channel(:Ovhich was the construction of a new box culvert to replace two undersized CMP culverts. These culverts were acting as a drainage restriction resulting in upstream flooding during high flow events. The SW 23rd street channel improvements are also needed to accommodate flow from the Panther Creek and Panther Creek Wetlant as recommended in the ESGRW Plan Alternative 23ST2 - Element 2. The second phaswvhich will be completed this summerticonsists of channel clearing and vegetation removal as well as habitat plantings. V In cooperation with WSDOT,the City provided funding assistance for design and construction of a 72-inch culvert and fish ladder across SR-167 along with downstream channel improvements between SR-167 and East Valley Road(SW 23rd Street Drainage Channel). This improvement is identified as Alternative 23ST-Element 1 in the ESGRW Plan. The culvert and fish ladder were installed in October of last year with the remaining worl!Ouch as habitat plantings and restoration; to be completed this spring. With the new culvert in place and functioning, the City can proceed with a future project to redirect flows from Panther Creek into the Panther Creek Wetlands just upstream of the culvert. These improvements are part of the P-9 channel improvements that were identified in the NRCS East Side Green River Watershed Plan. This action will significantly reduce the flooding along East Valley Road and with higher water levels in the wetland, provide fish habitat for rearing and storm refuge. Page 2 February 19, 1999 Lower Springbrook Creek The ESGRWP recommended several channel and culvert improvements along Springbrook Creek. The channel improvements were identified for the channel sections between SW 16th Street and SW 23rd Street and between SW 30th Street and SW 40th Street (ESGRWP Alternative SO - Element 2). Last summer the City completed construction of 500 feet of channel improvements between SW 16th Street and the new Oakesdale bridge. These improvements included substantial widening of the channel above the ordinary high water mark and installation of woody debris and habitat plantings on the banks. Currently, the City is in the design phase of an improved culvert crossing at SW 27th Street (ESGRWP Alternative SC2 - Element 1). The new box culvert will replace two existing CMP culverts that are a major restriction to flows and should substantially reduce water surface elevations upstream of SW 27th Street. Construction is tentatively planned for this summer. Request for NRCS Technical Assistance With the completion of the channel work between SW 16th Street and the new Oakesdale Bridge, the City now plans to direct its efforts toward the design of the remaining section of the channel from the new Oakesdale bridge to the 23rd Street drainage channel'. However, as NRCS has expressed an interest in providing design assistance, it may be appropriate at this time to outline a request for services for this project. The City requestythat the basis for design be consistentn%ern recommended channel improvements identified in the ESGRWP Alternative SO - Element 2. Specific request for services to be provided by NRCS are listed below: 1. Design assistance for channel improvements from the Oakesdale Bridge to SW 23rd Street (P-9 Channel). 2. Complete set of construction contract drawings to include plan,profile and sections. 3. Hydraulic calculations demonstrating that design will meet the objectives outlined in the ESGRWP. 4. Construction contract technical specifications. 5. Permitting assistanc5 6. Provide a budget and schedule to include critical path elements and milestones for preliminary design, permitting and final design. The City will be responsible for land acquisition and is willing to be the contracting Agency unless NRCS would prefer to take on this effort. We expect NRCS to coordinate continuously with us during the design process to ensure that City requirements and goals are incorporated into the project final design. This list is a general guideline. A meeting between the City and NRCS may be necessary to wor(out specific task responsibilities. H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\1999\99-081.DOC\AQ\tb y Page 3 February 19, 1999 Other Projects In addition to the aforementioned projects, the City of Renton is working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, King County and local jurisdictions on several habitat restoration projects as part of an Ecosystem Restoration Study. As a co-sponsor, the City is funding a portion of the design jointly with the Army Corps of Engineers, the County and other jurisdictions. It is anticipated the bulk of the construction funding will come from the Army Corps of Engineers. These improvements involve three potential sites along Upper and Lower Springbrook Creek that would provide the best opportunity for habitat restoration One site is located on Upper Springbrook creek between SR-167 and the S. 192nd Street crossing. The proposed project would add woody debris in/ 1000 feet of channel and establish a buffer between the road and the creek to allow enhancement of the riparian zone through plantings. The other two sites are located along Lower Springbrook Creek between SW 43rd Street and Oakesdale Ave and SW 30th Street and SW 23rd Street. These projects would involve similar habitat improvements as the Upper Springbrook Creek project - selective placement of instream structures such as root wads,tree plantings and shrubs. After evaluating the alternatives, the Army Corps of Engineers recommended that it would be desirable to look at habitat improvements along the entire stretch of the upper and lower Springbrook Creek from S. 192nd Street to the Green/Duwamish River. By treating the various independent projects as one continuous project spanning the entire reach, the Corps believes the habitat benefits can be greatly increased. This would mean that there may be some overlap with any design and construction work NRCS may provide between the Oakesdale Bridge and SW 23rd Street. This overlapthowever, would only involve habitat enhancement and will be minimized to the extent that it will augment whatever NRCS incorporates into its design. The City of Renton will ensure that the Corps and NRCS work closely in the design and review process. I hope this letter has helped to clarify our understanding of NRCS's involvement with the implementation of the Eastside Green River Watershed Project improvements that are planned for the next two or three years. The ESGRWP also identifies other improvements that we hope NRCS will agree to provide federal assistance on in the future. Thank you for your interest and support in these projects. If you have any question please call Ron Straka at 425-430-7248. Sincerely, ((!!�� Gregg Zimmerman) Adm►►vIS}mt r PB/P W D_�Lf#AJVAa1K_t w Nll�_OUT cc: Rod Den-Herder H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\1999\99-081.DOC\AQ\tb �y CITY OF RENTON Planning/Building/Public Works Department 7 e Tanner Mayor Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator February 22, 1999 Lawrence A. Johnson U.S. Department of Agriculture NRCS,Engineering Team Leader Rock Pointe Tower I1 316 W.Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE FOR SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING PROJECT Dear Mr. Johnson: This letter is in response to your letter dated December 9, 1998, expressing concern over NRCS's role in providing design services for the Springbrook Channel Widening Project. As part of the East Side Green River Watershed Plan (ESGRWP), the City has identified several improvements within the Springbrook Creek watershed that, if implemented, will reduce flooding in the valley as well as provide beneficial fish habitat. Specifically, these improvements targeted portions of lower Springbrook Creek and the 23rd Street drainage channel(also known as the P-1 channel and P-9 channel). SW 23rd Street Channel (P-9 Channel) Last summer, the City completed the first phase of channel improvements along the SW 23rd Street drainage channel, which was the construction of a new box culvert to replace two undersized CMP culverts. These culverts were acting as a drainage restriction resulting in upstream flooding during high flow events. The SW 23rd street channel improvements are also needed to accommodate flow from the Panther Creek and Panther Creek Wetland, as recommended in the ESGRW Plan Alternative 23ST2 - Element 2. The second phase, which will be completed this summer, consists of channel clearing and vegetation removal as well as habitat plantings. In cooperation with WSDOT,the City provided funding assistance for design and construction of a 72 inch culvert and fish ladder across SR-167 along with downstream channel improvements between SR-167 and East Valley Road (SW 23rd Street Drainage Channel). This improvement is identified as Alternative 23ST - Element 1 in the-ESGRW Plan. The culvert and fish ladder were installed in October of last year with the remaining work, such as habitat plantings and restoration, to be completed this spring. With the new culvert in place and functioning, the City can proceed with a future project to redirect flows from Panther Creek into the Panther Creek Wetlands just upstream of the culvert. These improvements are part of the P-9 channel improvements that were identified in the NRCS East Side Green River Watershed Plan. This action will significantly reduce the flooding along East Valley Road and with higher water levels in the wetland, provide fish habitat for rearing and storm refuge. 1055 South Grady Way-Renton,Washington 98055 ®This paper contains 50%recycled material,20%post consumer Page 2 February 22, 1999 Lower Springbrook Creek The ESGRWP recommended several channel and culvert improvements along Springbrook Creek. The channel improvements were identified for the channel sections between SW 16th Street and SW 23rd Street and between SW 30th Street and SW 40th Street (ESGRWP Alternative SO - Element 2). Last summer the City completed construction of 500 feet of channel improvements between SW 16th Street and the new Oakesdale bridge. These improvements included substantial widening of the channel above the ordinary high water mark and installation of woody debris and habitat plantings on the banks. Currently, the City is in the design phase of an improved culvert crossing at SW 27th Street (ESGRWP Alternative SC2 - Element 1). The new box culvert will replace two existing CMP culverts that are a major restriction to flows and should substantially reduce water surface elevations upstream of SW 27th Street. Construction is tentatively planned for this summer. Request for NRCS Technical Assistance With the completion of the channel work between SW 16th Street and the new Oakesdale Bridge, the City now plans to direct its efforts toward the design of the remaining section of the channel from the new Oakesdale bridge to the 23rd Street drainage channel. However, as NRCS has expressed an interest in providing design assistance, it may be appropriate at this time to outline a request for services for this project. The City requests that the basis for design be consistent with the recommended channel improvements identified in the ESGRWP Alternative SO - Element 2. Specific request for services to be provided by NRCS are listed below: 1. Design assistance for channel improvements from the Oakesdale Bridge to SW 23rd Street (P-9 Channel). 2. Complete set of construction contract drawings to include plan,profile and sections. 3. Hydraulic calculations demonstrating that design will meet the objectives outlined in the ESGRWP. 4. Construction contract technical specifications. 5. Permitting assistance. 6. Provide a budget and schedule to include critical path elements and milestones for preliminary design, permitting and final design. The City will be responsible for land acquisition and is willing to be the contracting Agency unless NRCS would prefer to take on this effort. We expect NRCS to coordinate continuously with us during the design process to ensure that City requirements and goals are incorporated into the project final design. HADI V ISIOMMUTILITIE.S\DOCS\1 999\99-08 I.DOC\AQ\tb Page 3 February 22, 1999. This list is a general guideline. A meeting between the City and NRCS may be necessary to work out specific task responsibilities. Other Projects In addition to the aforementioned projects, the City of Renton is working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, King County and local jurisdictions on several habitat restoration projects as part of an Ecosystem Restoration Study. As a co-sponsor, the City is funding a portion of the design jointly with the Army Corps of Engineers, the County and other jurisdictions. It is anticipated the bulk of the construction funding will come from the Army Corps of Engineers. These improvements involve three potential sites along Upper and Lower Springbrook Creek that would provide the best opportunity for habitat restoration One site is located on Upper Springbrook creek between SR-167 and the S. 192nd Street crossing. The proposed project would add woody debris in 1000 feet of channel and establish a buffer between the road and the creek to allow enhancement of the riparian zone through plantings. The other two sites are located along Lower Springbrook Creek between SW 43rd Street and Oakesdale Ave and SW 30th Street and SW 23rd Street. These projects would involve similar habitat improvements as the Upper Springbrook Creek project - selective placement of instrearn structures such as root wads,tree plantings and shrubs. After evaluating the alternatives, the Army Corps of Engineers recommended that it would be desirable to look at habitat improvements along` the entire stretch of the upper and lower Springbrook Creek from S. 192nd Street to the Green/Duwamish River. By treating the various independent projects as one continuous project spanning the entire reach, the Corps believes the habitat benefits can be greatly increased. This would mean that there may be some overlap with -any design and construction work NRCS may provide between the Oakesdale Bridge and SW 23rd Street. This overlap, however, would only involve habitat enhancement and will be minimized to the extent that it will augment whatever NRCS incorporates into its design. The City of Renton will ensure that the Corps and NRCS work closely in the design and review process. H:\DI V ISION.S\UTILITI E.S\DOCS\1999\99-081.DOCWQ\tb Page 4 February 22, 1999 I hope this letter has helped to clarify our understanding of NRCS's involvement with the implementation of the Eastside Green River Watershed Project improvements that are planned for the next two or three years. The ESGRWP also identifies other improvements that we hope NRCS will agree to provide federal assistance on in the future. Thank you for your interest and support in these projects. If you have any questions, please call Ron Straka at 425-430-7248. Sincerely, All I now Gregg Zimmerman,Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works cc: Rod Den-Herder H:\DI V ISION.S\UTILITI E.S\DOCS\1999\99-08I.DOC\AQ\tb Ilk CITY OF RENTON RPlanning/Building/Public Works Department Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator Jesse Tanner,Mayor April 21, 1999 Mr. Lawrence A. Johnson U.S. Department of Agriculture NRCS, Engineering Team Leader Rock Pointe Tower Ii 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE FOR THE SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING PROJECT Dear Mr. Johnson: Thank you for your letter of March 29, 1999, regarding Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) technical assistance availability. The City is appreciative of NRCS's offer to provide technical assistance on this project; however, due to the desire to begin construction as soon as possible, the City has decided to immediately proceed with design for the reach between the new Oakesdale Ave. SW Bridge and SW 23rd Street. A consultant will be brought on board within the next several months to begin design and permitting, with final construction plans and specifications to be completed next year. NRCS's standards will be integrated into our production of project construction plans and specifications. Please define how to proceed with the project design to ensure that final design is eligible for NRCS funding. It is assumed you will need to review and approve the consultant scope of work, technical reports, and construction plans and specifications at different stages of design. Also, please identify the appropriate NRCS staff contact for coordination during the design phase. We are interested in securing federal funds from NRCS, if possible, between July 2000 and March of 2001, with construction starting in the summer of 2001. Project construction was tentatively planned to begin in the Summer of 2000; however, we now anticipate this schedule slipping one year due to: the delayed start on the design phase; additional permit requirements for Endangered Species Act compliance; and the opportunity to secure federal funding for construction. If you have any questions, please contact Ron Straka, Surface Water Utility Engineering Supervisor at 425-430-7248. Thank you again for your continued support. Sincerely, AT � Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works cc: Rod Den-Herder H.\DIVISION.S\UTILrrIE.S\DO4105fjg, MtIV a y Wt5o%.- nton, Washington 98055 `�)This paper con ains recycled material.20%post consumer CONC RRENCE"�''_ April 21, 1999 DATE NAME INITIAL/D TE Mr. Lawrence A. Johnson r ��� Z Z U.S. Department of Agriculture — NRCS,Engineering Team Leader Rock Pointe Tower II 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE FOR THE SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING PROJECT Dear Mr. Johnson: Thank you for your letter of March 29, 1999, regarding Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS) technical assistance availability. The City is appreciative of NRCS's offer to provide technical assistance on this project; however, due to the desire to begin construction as soon as possible, the City has decided to immediately proceed with design for the reach between the new Oakesdale Ave. SW Bridge and SW 23rd Street. A consultant will be brought on board within the next several months to begin design and permitting,with final construction plans and specifications to be completed next year. NRCS's standards will be integrated into our production of project construction plans and specifications. Please define how to proceed with the project design to ensure that final design is eligible for NRCS funding. It is assumed you will need to review and approve the consultant scope of work, technical reports, and construction plans and specifications at different stages of design. Also, please identify the appropriate NRCS staff contact for coordination during the design phase. We are interested in securing federal funds from NRCS, if possible, between July 2000 and March of 2001, with construction starting in the summer of 2001. Project construction was tentatively planned to begin in the Summer of 2000; however, we now anticipate this schedule slipping one year due to: the delayed start on the design phase; additional permit requirements for Endangered Species Act compliance; and the opportunity to secure federal funding for construction. If you have any questions, please contact Ron Straka, Surface Water Utility Engineering Supervisor at 425-430-7248. Thank you again for your continued support. Sincerely, Gregg Zimmerman,Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works cc: Rod Den-Herder H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITTE.S\DOCS\1999\3\99-291.DOC t CONC RRENCE DATE -a?/- 9 April 21, 1999 NAME INITIAL/ A E Mr. Lawrence A. Johnson I�a,�S1r�zKa ail 1- U.S. Department of Agriculture NRCS,Engineering Team Leader Rock Pointe Tower II 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE FOR THE SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING PROJECT Dear Mr. Johnson: Thank you for your letter of March 29, 1999, regarding Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) technical assistance availability. The City is appreciative of NRCS's offer to provide technical assistance on this project; ho a ue to the desire to begin construction as soon as Of possible, the City has decided f PU design for the reach between the new Oakesdale AveAW Bridge and SW 23rd Street his-y . A consultant will be brought on boardx within the next several months to begin design and permittinbwith final construction plans and specifications to be completed next year. To i__.__»re p tcntial fundi L> eligih;lity, NRCS's standards� be integrated in o40 ur production of proje c nstruction DI and s ecific ti s. Please define how to proceed with the project design to ensur-al design i�'eT_gibl Irt"i ss m d you will need to review and approve the consultant scope of work,eA;ttechnical re orts', onstruction plans and specifications at different stages of design. Also, please identify the appropriate NRCS staff contact for coordination during the p4aAlesign phase. We are interested in securing federal funds from NRCS, if possib ebb tween July 2000 and March of 2001, with construction starting in the summer of 2001. Project on uction was tentatively planned to �,ip t e S mmel�4 2000; however, we now anticipate thl schedule slippi one year due to: th ` iI p ase ( r��+ s+ar+P.�t; additional permit requirements Endangered Species Act; and the opportunity to secure federal funding for. ha+;ejeet construction. G1, If you have anquestions,Q please contact Ron Straka, Surface Water Utility Engineering Supervisor at 425-430-7248. Thank you again for your continued support. Sincerely, Gregg Zimmerman,Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works cc: Rod Den-Herder H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\1999\3\99-291.DOC s �+ NRCS and CITY OF RENTON SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING SW 16TH ST. TO SW 23" ST. Tuesday,November 17, 1998 Meeting Minutes Attendees: NRCS: Steve Durgin,Rod Den-Herder City of Renton: Ron Straka,Allen Quynn • The City of Renton reviewed with NRCS the various capital improvement projects that have either been completed or are scheduled to be completed within the next few years. These improvements include: 1. (Design Completed) SW 23rd Street Drainage Improvements Project - Channel Improvements(P-9 Channel)from East Valley Road to Springbrook Creek. Construction to be completed in the Summer of 1999. 2. (Completed) SR-167 Culvert and SW 23rd street (P-9) Channel Improvements between SR-167 and East Valley Road. 3. (Completed)Olympic Pipeline Culvert Replacement. 4. (Completed)Channel improvements from SW 16th Street to the new Oakesdale Bridge. 5. (Next Summer) SW 27th Street Culvert Replacement. • NRCS will focus their efforts on the portion of Springbrook Creek between the new Oakesdale Bridge and the SW 23rd Street Drainage Channel. • Several issues were brought up that will need to be considered in the design. They are: 1. Drainage District No. 1 maintains a 40' right-of-way through the center of the channel. Any work within the R/W will require their authorization. 2. There is a 60-inch culvert which conveys flow from an existing drainage channel and storm drain system at 19th Street to Springbrook Creek. As part of the City's drainage improvement projects,the 60-inch culvert is to be removed to allow for some off site fish habitat. 3. The design will need to incorporate a pedestrian trail along the west bank of the creek. The trail will extend from the existing trail on the Boeing property to where to trail picks up in the vicinity of the ALL PAK property. Page 2 Nov. 17th Mtg. Min. 4. A 60-inch, Seattle water line extends approximately 5 inches above the channel bottom where it crosses the creek at SW 23rd Street. It will be assumed that this utility cannot be relocated. • The goal of the project is to improve the capacity of the channel to convey future condition flows while also improving the habitat and water quality. NRCS will design the channel within the parameters set forth in the EIS. This will avoid the prospect of triggering another review and potential modification of the EIS which could delay or possibly kill the project. Some of these parameters include limiting excavation to above the ordinary high water mark • NRCS would like to incorporate sinuosity of the channel alignment which can improve sediment transport and reduce bank erosion. This sinuosity would only be applied to-the high flow channel due to limitations on property right-of-way and easements and to avoid low-flow channel excavation. • The City asked about possible funding for the 23rd St. Channel Improvement Project. NRCS said that would be unlikely. • City will review any agreements with property owners within the project boundaries. • City will review the easement acquisition from Boeing. • One of the issues that will need to addressed is where to haul excavated spoils that may be contaminated. There are several options that need to be investigated including requiring the contractor to haul it to an approved disposal site, stock pile and sell it to the highest bidder, or finding someone who could use it as fill material for other projects. • Coordination with the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe and State Fisheries will be required early in the project. • NRCS would like the City to be responsible for permitting the project, however NRCS would provide all the necessary information for the applications. • The City of Renton will provide NRCS with the following information: l. Base Survey conducted by W & H Pacific(electronic format). 2. HSPF Model developed by Northwest Hydraulics(electronic format). 3. FEQ Model developed by R.W. Beck, Inc. (electronic format). 4. HEC-RAS Model which contains updated cross-section (electronic format). 5. Volume II of the ESGRWP Draft Plan and EIS. 6. Volume II of the Black River Basin Water Quality Management Plan. 7. Plans for 23rd St. Channel Improvements. H:DI V:UTI L:DOCS:98-801.DOC\AQ\TB Page 3 Nov. 17th Mtg. Min. • NRCS will develop a project schedule to include critical path elements and milestones for preliminary design, permitting and final design. NCRS will be shooting for a preliminary design sometime in April with the final design and specs completed by October 1999. • Either the City or NRCS will be responsible for advertising the bid package. • Because the base mapping provide by the City did not include the new Oakesdale Bridge, NRCS indicated that they might be able to survey the bridge and channel improvements in-house. Thursday, November 19, 1998 Field Visit Meeting Minutes Attendees: NRCS: Steve Durgin,Rod Den-Herder,Janine Castro Renton: Allen Quynn • Discussed funding from the Army Corps of Engineers and King County for design and construction of fish habitat in portions of Upper and Lower Springbrook Creek as part of the Interlocal Agreement with the City of Renton. • The City also mentioned that King County may be able to obtain additional Federal funding as part of ESA for habitat improvements along Springbrook Creek • The City will try to get NRCS involved with any discussions with the Corps and King County related to Springbrook Creek habitat improvements. • City will provide City topo and aerial photogrammetry in AutoCAD release 14 along Springbrook Creek from SW 16th street to SW 43rd Street. H:DI V:UTIL:DOCS:98-80I.DOC\AQ\TB NRCS and CITY OF RENTON SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING SW 16TH ST. TO SW 23" ST. Tuesday,November 17, 1998 Meeting Minutes Attendees: NRCS: Steve Durgin,Rod Den-Herder City of Renton: Ron Straka,Allen Quynn • The City of Renton reviewed with NRCS the various capital improvement projects that have either been completed or are scheduled to be completed within the next few years. These improvements include: 1. (Design Completed) SW 23rd Street Drainage Improvements Project - Channel Improvements (P-9 Channel)from East Valley Road to Springbrook Creek. Construction to be completed in the Summer of 1999. 2. (Completed) SR-167 Culvert and SW 23rd street (P-9) Channel Improvements between SR-167 and East Valley Road. 3. (Completed) Olympic Pipeline Culvert Replacement. 4. (Completed) Channel improvements from SW 16th Street to the new Oakesdale Bridge. 5. (Next Summer) SW 27th Street Culvert Replacement. • NRCS will focus their efforts on the portion of Springbrook Creek between the new Oakesdale Bridge and the SW 23rd Street Drainage Channel. • Several issues were brought up that will need to be considered in the design. They are: 1. Drainage District No. 1 maintains a 40' right-of-way through the center of the channel. Any work within the R/W will require their authorization. 2. There is a 60-inch culvert which conveys flow from an existing drainage channel and storm drain system at 19th Street to Springbrook Creek. As part of the City's drainage improvement projects, the 60-inch culvert is to be removed to allow for some off site fish habitat. 3. The design will need to incorporate a pedestrian trail along the west bank of the creek. The trail will extend from the existing trail on the Boeing property to where to trail picks up in the vicinity of the ALL PAK property. �. d1 Page 2 Nov. 17th Mtg. Min. 4. A 60-inch, Seattle water line extends approximately 5 inches above the channel bottom where it crosses the creek at SW 23rd Street. It will be assumed that this utility cannot be relocated. • The goal of the project is to improve the capacity of the channel to convey future condition flows while also improving the habitat and water quality. NRCS will design the channel within the parameters set forth in the EIS. This will avoid the prospect of triggering another review and potential modification of the EIS which could delay or possibly kill the project. Some of these parameters include limiting excavation to above the ordinary high water mark • NRCS would like to incorporate sinuosity of the channel alignment which can improve sediment transport and reduce bank erosion. This sinuosity would only be applied to the high flow channel due to limitations on property right-of-way and easements and to avoid low-flow channel excavation. • The City asked about possible funding for the 23rd St. Channel Improvement Project. NRCS said that would be unlikely. • City will review any agreements with property owners within the project boundaries. • City will review the easement acquisition from Boeing. • One of the issues that will need to addressed is where to haul excavated spoils that may be contaminated. There are several options that need to be investigated including requiring the contractor to haul it to an approved disposal site, stock pile and sell it to the highest bidder, or finding someone who could use it as fill material for other projects. • Coordination with the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe and State Fisheries will be required early in the project. • NRCS would like the City to be responsible for permitting the project, however NRCS would provide all the necessary information for the applications. • The City of Renton will provide NRCS with the following information: 1. Base Survey conducted by W& H Pacific(electronic format). 2. HSPF Model developed by Northwest Hydraulics(electronic format). 3. FEQ Model developed by R.W. Beck, Inc. (electronic format). 4. HEC-RAS Model which contains updated cross-section (electronic format). 5. Volume II of the ESGRWP Draft Plan and EIS. 6. Volume II of the Black River Basin Water Quality Management Plan. 7. Plans for 23rd St. Channel Improvements. H:DI V:UTI L:DOCS:98-801.DOC\AQ\TB Page 3 Nov. 17th Mtg. Min. • NRCS will develop a project schedule to include critical path elements and milestones for preliminary design, permitting and final design. NCRS will be shooting for a preliminary design sometime in April with the final design and specs completed by October 1999. • Either the City or NRCS will be responsible for advertising the bid package. • Because the base mapping provide by the City did not include the new Oakesdale Bridge, NRCS indicated that they might be able to survey the bridge and channel improvements in-house. Thursday, November 19, 1998 Field Visit Meeting Minutes Attendees: NRCS: Steve Durgin,Rod Den-Herder,Janine Castro Renton: Allen Quynn • Discussed funding from the Army Corps of Engineers and King County for design and construction of fish habitat in portions of Upper and Lower Springbrook Creek as part of the Interlocal Agreement with the City of Renton. • The City also mentioned that King County may be able to obtain additional Federal funding as part of ESA for habitat improvements along Springbrook Creek • The City will try to get NRCS involved with any discussions with the Corps and King County related to Springbrook Creek habitat improvements. • City will provide City topo and aerial photogrammetry in AutoCAD release 14 along Springbrook Creek from SW 16th street to SW 43rd Street. H:DI V:UTIL:DOCS:98-801.DOCWQ\TB CliT Y OF RENTON Planning/Building/Public Works Department Jesse Tanner,Mayor Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator December 8, 1999 Roderick L. DenHerder, P.E. USDA,Natural Resources Conservation Svc. 935 Powell Ave. S.W. Renton, WA 98055 SUBJECT: Valley Flood Control Expenditures for the Springbrook Creek Widening Project Dear Rod: I've enclosed an expenditure spreadsheet for all of the Valley Flood Control projects since 1992. If you need expenditures prior to 1992,that will require more time as the information is not available on our computer finance system. If you have any questions, please call me at 425-430-7247. Sincerely, Allen Quyn(rUtility ect Manager Surface Wa Enclosure H:DIV/UTIL/D0CS/99 827\AQ If 1055 South Grady Way- Renton, Washington 98055 ®This paper contains 50%recycled material,20%post consumer City of Renton Valley Flood Control Related Expenditures for the years 1992-1999 e 3 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 Project Name Panther Creek Wetland $11,280 $65,407 $12,380 $42,231 $83,871 $1,530 $633 $10,350 Stream Flow Monitoring $7,934 $9,072 $16,335 $10,870 $10,316 $3,965 $31,981 $2,767 Mitigation Bank $82 $28,433 $52,667 $4,759 $33,370 $20,547 $25,721 $0 P-1 Channel/Grady to 16th $996 $0 $22,367 $112,933 $592,412 $32,783 $234 $0 P-1 Wetland Acquisition $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $101,000 $0 Panther Creek/P-9 Design $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $107 $5,622 SW 43rd Street Drainage Improvements $0 $259,282 $31,315 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 SR-167Improvements $93,410 $24,869 $3,419 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Olympic Pipeline Culvert' $126,022 $29,582 $47,935 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $120,000 Springbrook Creek Widn.(16th to Oakesdale) $0 $296,632 $104,095 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Springbrook Creek Widn. (Oakesdale to 23rd) $5,364 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 ESGRWP Flood Study $0 $0 $91,565 $37,412 $0 $0 $0 $0 SW 27th Street Culvert Improvement Project $836,485 $80,522 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Valley Study $0 $0 $30,583 $162,449 $122,005 $77,953 $48,913 $112,167 1-405/P-1 Culvert/Channel $0 $0 $0 $0 $627 $0 $0 $98,836 Oakesdale Ave. Box Bridget $300,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 SW 16th St. Bridge/P-1/Oakesdale $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $35,533 $0 Black River Water Quality Management Plan $0 $0 $205 $0 $0 1 $2,636 $26,621 $196,064 Total: $1,381,573 $913,799 $412,866 $370,654 $842,601 $139,414 $270,743 1 $425,806 1.$120,000 is the constructed cost for box culvert paid by Olympic Pipeline 2.$300,000 is construction cost for box bridge funded by the developer of the Oakesdale Business Park �� CITY OF RENTON 4" Planning/Building/Public Works Department Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator Jesse Tanner,Mayor April 21, 1999 Mr. Lawrence A. Johnson U.S. Department of Agriculture NRCS, Engineering Team Leader Rock Pointe Tower II 316 W. Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE FOR THE SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING PROJECT Dear Mr. Johnson: Thank you for your letter of March 29, 1999, regarding Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) technical assistance availability. The City is appreciative of NRCS's offer to provide technical assistance on this project; however, due to the desire to begin construction as soon as possible, the City has decided to immediately proceed with design for the reach between the new Oakesdale Ave. SW Bridge and SW 23rd Street. A consultant will be brought on board within the next several months to begin design and permitting, with final construction plans and specifications to be completed next year. NRCS's standards will be integrated into our production of project construction plans and specifications. Please define how to proceed with the project design to ensure that final design is eligible for NRCS funding. It is assumed you will need to review and approve the consultant scope of work, technical reports, and construction plans and specifications at different stages of design. Also, please identify the appropriate NRCS staff contact for coordination during the design phase. We are interested in securing federal funds from NRCS, if possible, between July 2000 and March of 2001, with construction starting in the summer of 2001. Project construction was tentatively planned to begin in the Summer of 2000; however, we now anticipate this schedule slipping one year due to: the delayed start on the design phase; additional permit requirements for Endangered Species Act compliance; and the opportunity to secure federal funding for construction. If you have any questions, please contact Ron Straka, Surface Water Utility Engineering Supervisor at 425-430-7248. Thank you again for your continued support. Sincerely, T � Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works cc: Rod Den-Herder H:\DIVISIGN.S\UTILITIG.S\Dod.OfgSs1mtivGtgdy Way-'Renton, Wasfiington 98055 ®This paper contains 50%recycled material,20%post consumer USDA United States Natural 316 W. Boone Ave, Suite 450 Department of Resources Spokane,WA 99201-2348 Agriculture Conservation Service Phone 509-323-2900 Fax 509-323-2909 Date: December 9, 1998 Greg A. Zimmerman, Administrator S4ff �5 "" 0// ``— Planning, Building and Public Works Dept L,( '9 200 Mill Avenue South >4 WP,I Renton, WA 98055 Imo' Dear Mr. Zimmerman: The purpose of this letter is to request written clarification of NRCS's role for providing technical assistance on the design of the P-1 and P-9 channels, and the Panther Creek Wetlands. As you know, last year we met with you to discuss your technical assistance needs. It was our understanding that you were asking us to provide technical and design assistance for all phases of the above projects. After returning from a meeting with you, Steve Durgin, a member of my staff, reported that you have already started design efforts on the P-9, as well as the P-1 channel (from P-9 to the city limits). Please respond with a letter of clarification that states what type of technical assistance you need. At this point in time, we are concerned about moving forward on our design efforts because we are not sure as to what your expectations are. If you are interested in receiving any potential Federal dollars from the Small Watershed Operations Program (WF-08), NRCS will need to review and approve your designs before actual construction begins. Additionally, if NRCS provides technical assistance on the P-1 channel (from the Oaksdale Bridge up to the P-9 channel), we will need to take a look at the technical merits of the design as a whole for all the projects mentioned. We want to ensure the design maintains the structural integrity of the P-1 and P-9 channels, so the downstream sections that we have already paid in cost share will function as intended. If you wish to discuss this with me, please don't hesitate to give me a call. LAWRENCE A. JOHNSON Engineering Team Leader Cc: Frank Easter, WPTL, NRCS, Spokane SO Joe Henry, DC, Renton FO Ron Shavlik, FSL, Lacey, WA Rod DenHerder CE, Renton FO The Natural Resources Conservation Service works hand-in-hand with the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER My Renton.doc.12/09/98.MA S:wordw in �y CITY OF RENTON ,aR Planning/Building/Public Works Department Jesse Tanner,Mayor Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator February 22, 1999 Lawrence A. Johnson U.S. Department of Agriculture NRCS,Engineering Team Leader Rock Pointe Tower Il 316 W.Boone Ave., Suite 450 Spokane, WA 99201-2348 SUBJECT: NRCS DESIGN ASSISTANCE FOR SPRINGBROOK CREEK CHANNEL WIDENING PROJECT Dear Mr. Johnson: This letter is in response to your letter dated December,9, 1998, expressing concern over NRCS's role in providing design services for the Springbrook Channel Widening Project. As part of the East Side Green River Watershed Plan (ESGRWP), the City has identified several improvements within the Springbrook Creek watershed that, if implemented, will reduce flooding in the valley as well as provide beneficial fish habitat. Specifically, these improvements targeted portions of lower Springbrook Creek and the 23rd Street drainage channel (also known as the P-1 channel and P-9,channel). SW 23rd Street Channel (P-9 Channel) Last summer, the City completed the first phase of channel improvements along the SW 23rd Street drainage channel, which was the construction of a new box culvert to replace two undersized CMP culverts. These culverts were acting as a drainage restriction resulting in upstream flooding during high flow events. The SW 23rd street channel improvements are also needed to accommodate flow from the Panther Creek and. Panther Creek Wetland, as recommended in the ESGRW Plan Alternative 23ST2 - Element 2. The second phase, which will be completed this summer, consists of channel clearing and vegetation removal as well as habitat plantings. In cooperation with WSDOT,the City provided funding assistance for design and construction of a 72 inch culvert and fish ladder across SR-167 along with downstream channel improvements between SR-167 and East Valley Road (SW 23rd Street Drainage Channel). This improvement is identified as Alternative 23 ST - Element 1 in the ESGRW Plan. The culvert and fish ladder were installed in October of last year with the remaining work, such as habitat plantings and restoration, to be completed this spring. With the new culvert in place and functioning, the City can proceed with a future project to redirect flows from Panther Creek into the Panther Creek Wetlands just upstream of the culvert. These improvements are part of the P-9 channel improvements that were identified in the NRCS East Side Green River Watershed Plan. This action will significantly reduce the flooding along East Valley Road and with higher water levels in the wetland, provide fish habitat for rearing and storm refuge. 1055 South Grady Way-Renton,Washington 98055 9 This paper contains 50%recycled material,20%post consumer Page 2 February 22, 1999 Lower Springbrook Creek The ESGRWP recommended several channel and culvert improvements along Springbrook Creek. The channel improvements were identified for the channel sections between SW 16th Street and SW 23rd Street and between SW 30th Street and SW 40th Street (ESGRWP Alternative SO - Element 2). Last summer the City completed construction of 500 feet of, channel improvements between SW 16th Street and the new Oakesdale bridge. These improvements included substantial widening of the channel above the ordinary high water mark and installation of woody debris and habitat plantings on the banks. Currently, the City is in the design phase of an improved culvert crossing at SW 27th Street (ESGRWP Alternative SC2 - Element 1). The new box culvert will replace two existing CMP culverts that are a major restriction to flows and should substantially reduce water surface elevations upstream of SW 27th Street. Construction is tentatively planned for this summer. Request for NRCS Technical Assistance With the completion of the channel work between SW 16th Street and the new Oakesdale Bridge, the City now plans to direct its efforts toward the design of"the remaining section of the channel from the new Oakesdale bridge to the 23rd Street drainage channel. However, as NRCS has expressed an interest in providing design assistance, it may be appropriate at this time to outline a request for services for this project. The City requests that the basis for.design be consistent with the recommended channel improvements identified in the ESGRWP Alternative SO - Element 2. Specific request for services to be provided by NRCS are listed below: 1. Design assistance for channel improvements from the Oakesdale Bridge to SW 23rd Street (P-9 Channel). 2. Complete set of construction contract drawings to-include"plan, profile and sections. 3. Hydraulic calculations demonstrating that design will meet the objectives outlined in the ESGRWP. 4. Construction contract technical specifications. 5. Permitting assistance. 6. Provide a budget and schedule to include critical path elements and milestones for preliminary design, permitting and final design. The City will be responsible for land acquisition and is willing to be the contracting Agency unless NRCS would prefer to take on this effort. We expect NRCS to coordinate continuously with us during the design process to ensure that City requirements and goals are incorporated into the project final design. H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\1999\99-081.DOC\AQ\tb 4- Page 3 February 22, 1.999 This list is a general guideline. A meeting between the City and NRCS may be necessary to work out specific task responsibilities. Other Projects In addition to the aforementioned projects, the. City of Renton is working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, King County and local jurisdictions on several habitat restoration projects as part of an Ecosystem Restoration Study. As a co-sponsor, the City is funding a portion of the design jointly with the Army Corps of Engineers, the County and other jurisdictions. It is anticipated the bulk of the construction funding will come from the Army Corps of Engineers. These improvements involve three potential sites along Upper and Lower Springbrook Creek that would provide the best opportunity for habitat restoration One site is located on Upper Springbrook creek between SR-167 and the S. 192nd Street crossing. The proposed project would add woody debris in 1000 feet of channel and establish a buffer between the road and the creek to allow enhancement of the riparian zone through plantings. The other two sites are located along Lower Springbrook''Creek between SW 43rd Street and Oakesdale Ave and SW 30th Street and SW'23rd Street: These projects would involve similar habitat improvements as the Upper Springbrook Creek project,-,selective placement of instream structures such as root wads,tree plantings and shrubs. After evaluating the alternatives, the.Army Corps of Engineers recommended that it would be desirable to look at habitat improvements,along the" entire stretch ,of the upper and lower Springbrook Creek from S. 192nd Street to the Green/Duwamish River. By treating the various independent projects as one continuous project spanning the entire reach, the Corps believes the habitat benefits can be greatly increased. This would mean that there may be some overlap with any design and construction work NRCS may provide between the Oakesdale Bridge and SW 23rd Street. This overlap, however, would only involve habitat enhancement and will be minimized to the extent that it will augment,whatever NRCS incorporates into its design. The City of Renton will ensure that the`'Corps and NRCS work closely in the design and review process. H:\D I V 1 S 10N.S\U TI LITI E.S\DOC S\1999\99-081.DOC\AQ\tb Page 4 February 22, 1999 I hope this letter has helped to clarify our understanding of NRCS's involvement with the implementation of the Eastside Green River Watershed Project improvements that are planned for the next two or three years. The ESGRWP also identifies other improvements that we hope NRCS will agree to provide federal assistance on in the future. Thank you for your interest and support in these projects. If you have any questions,please call Ron Straka at 425-430-7248. Sincerely, All I bo"" Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator Planning/Building/Public Works a r< cc: Rod Den-Herder . F" w A J' s•, Vf„ l . H:\DIVISION.S\UTILITIE.S\DOCS\1999\99-081.DOC\AQ\tb GREGG'S ACTION MEMO TO: V/� DATE: ! ❑ Please Call ❑ ROUTE TO: ❑ For your Information ISSUE/CONCERN: V For Action ❑ For Signature ❑ Your Recommendation COAL/ ❑ Per our Conversation PREFERRED OUTCOME: ❑ Per your Request ❑ Copies of this note sent to: , AMIi SPECIFIC DO'S OR DO 'TS: FOLLOW UP: ❑ TICKLER FILE (date) ❑ COMPLETED (date) RESULTS: DUE DATE: i forms/ACTM EM O I.DOC/LAG/M w'. StatesUnited USDA Departm nt of Resources Spo ane 50 ,WA 99201-234g Agriculture Conservation Service Phone 509-323-2900 Fax 509-323-2979 Date: March 29, 1999 Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator Planning, Building and Public Works Department City of Renton 1055 South Grady Way Renton, WA 98055 Dear Mr. Zimmerman: Thank you for your letter of February 22, 1999, concerning NRCS design assistance for the Springbrook Creek Channel widening project. I applaud the City of Renton's efforts to continue improvements for the Springbrook Creek watershed. I have reviewed your requests for NRCS technical assistance with the Regional Design Staff. Due to prior commitments in Washington State, other states and the complexity of your requests, the first opportunity I can schedule time for evaluation and design of your project is January 1, 2000. 1 estimate it will take approximately 28 weeks to complete the design, and prepare plans and specifications for those items in your request. Please let me know if you still wish to proceed with your request for technical assistance. If you have any questions, please call me at (509) 323-2955. Sincerely, LAWRENCE A. JOHNSON Engineering Team Leader cc: Leonard Jordan, STC, Spokane SO Kip Yasumiishi, RDTL, Spokane SO The Natural Resources Conservation Service works hand-in-hand with the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER Zimmerman.doc:03/29/99:MAS mordwin United States Natural 316 W. Boone Ave, Suite 450 UJ'L] Department of Resources Spokane,WA 99201-2348 Agriculture Conservation -. Service Phone 509-323-2955 Fax 509-323-2979 Date: April 4, 2000 Gregg Zimmerman, Administrator RECEIVED Planning, Building and Public Works Department RECEIVED City of Renton 1055 South Grady Way AP7 7 2000 APR 0 7 2000 �- Renton, WA 98055 CITY OF RENTON UTILITYILIT CITY Y SYYSTEMSSTEMS PUBLIC WORKS ADMIN. Dear Mr. Zimmerman.- We have received you letter, dated March 7, indicating your interest in partnering with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to complete the design for the Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement from the 1-405 up to the P-9 confluence. We appreciate your willingness to assist NRCS regarding some of the tasks outlined on the schedule we sent earlier to you. Specifically, we need you assistance on the following tasks: Task 9, Design Survey — It is assumed that the City of Renton (or their consultant) will complete the necessary field surveys in order to update the Hydraulic Model that was developed by R.W. Beck and Northwest Hydraulic Consultants (NHC). NRCS will field survey only those areas that require a higher level of detail for design of the channel. Task 10, Wetland Mapping —Verification that the existing wetland map meets the current criteria and permitting requirements. Task 15, Sediment hazard analysis - It has been determined that the scope of work will be restricted to the upper banks of the channel. Since excavation will not occur directly in the channel bottom, previous testing of other project phases have shown hazardous sediment confined within the channel bottom. If any hazardous sediment did exist, it would not be disturbed; therefore, this task will be removed from the task list. Task 17, Sediment transport Model — Development of a sediment transport model using HEC-6 methodology. Task 21, Hydraulic Design — Update the existing FEQ and HEC-RAS models to reflect the following improvements: 1. SW 16th to Oaksdale Ave. SW (Boeing Bridge), new cross section data; 2. SW 27th Street Box Culvert, new cross section data; 3. Use base survey developed by W H Pacific under 27th street culvert project and redesigned cross sections from NRCS to modify the input for the models; 4. This model will need to be revised and run approximately 3 to 4 times as the design is revised; 5. Run the model to reflect the final design conditions with existing improvements. The Natural Resources Conservation Service works hand-in-hand with the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER ANDEMPLOYER Zimmermann 040300.doc04/04/00:mas:wordwin Task 29-30, Pre-Application meeting, ESA, Cultural Resources, Wetland — Conduct pre- application meeting with all state and federal agencies that have a role in permitting or concurring with the project. Conduct a cultural resources and wetland inventory for the project and those areas that may be impacted by construction activities. This task is significantly important due to the impacts permitting agencies, or other responsible Federal agencies, could have on the requirements for mitigation, design and layout of the channel improvements. Please note that NRCS will need full and open access to any technical information that the City of Renton, or their representatives (i.e., R. W. Beck, NHC) have. Without the technical information, it will not be possible to review and evaluate all aspects of the design work that we prepare. This includes, but is not limited to; field survey data, FEQ Model, HSPF Model and HEC-RAS Model. The NRCS contacts for the project are Rod Den Herder (2.06) 764-3325, Project Engineer, Renton Field Office, and Steve Durgin (509) 323-2957, Design Engineer, Spokane State Office. We appreciate your assistance regarding the above tasks. If you have any questions or concerns please call me at (509) 323-2955. Sincerely, LAWRENCE A. JOHNSON Engineering Team Leader cc: Leonard Jordan, STC, NRCS, Spokane SO Kip Yasumiishi, RDTL, NRCS, Spokane SO Rod Den Herder, Project Engineer, Renton FO /11 i 17