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TACOMA
2215 North 30th Street
Suite 300
Tacoma, WA 98403-3350
253.383.2422 TEL
www.ahbl.com
February 11, 2020
Matt Herrera, AICP, Senior Planner
City of Renton
1055 South Grady Way
Renton, WA 98057
Project: Sunset Highlands Mixed Use, AHBL No. 2190210.10
Subject: Response to Muckleshoot Indian Tribe Comments dated January 22, 2020
LUA19-000290
Dear Mr. Herrera:
We are responding to your letter dated January 28, 2020, that contained comments from the
Muckleshoot Indian Tribe dated January 22, 2020, regarding the above referenced project.
The comments are included below (verbatim) for your reference. Our responses are shown in
bold after each comment.
1. Stream Typing.
Per the Critical Areas Report, the section of Honey Creek that flows along the southern
portion of the site is classified as a Type N (non-fish bearing). The report lacked
sufficient data to demonstrate this classification. In fact, based on the information
provided (i.e. bankfull width of 2 feet), at least one of the three physical criteria for
presumed fish habitat was met. The report lacks any information about any natural
barriers downstream and the streambed slope and the upstream basin area.
WDFW's current barrier map and fish distribution layer is showing fish use not far from
the site, below SR 900 and Union which is farther upstream than the City map in the
Critical Areas Report.
See https://geodataservices.wdfw.wa.gov/hp/fishpassage/index.html
The stream needs to be resurveyed to see if it meets the physical criteria for presumed
fish habitat under WAC 222-16-031 or demonstration of a natural physical barrier based
on WDFW's barrier assessment criteria.
Response: This will be addressed by the Wetland Ecologist.
2. Current stream buffer conditions.
The photos in the CAR suggests that the stream buffer on site has been totally cleared.
Is this correct? If so, isn't the project site in violation of the City's Critical Areas
Ordinance? It also seems that a buffer reduction and critical areas exemption should
not be allowed until any CAO violations are addressed including mitigation for any
temporal losses to riparian functions.
For any buffer reduction, the remaining stream buffer needs to be planted with native
trees and shrubs conducive to the soils on site. The landscape plan suggests that non-
native street trees will be planted in the buffer.
Response: We are not aware of any clearing activity or violations that have
occurred.
G+A Response: Please see attached technical memorandum.
Matt Herrera, AICP, Senior Planner
February 11, 2020
2190210.10
Page 2 of 2
3. Onsite culverts.
The site plans shows two existing 48" culverts crossing the stream. What is the purpose
of these culverts? Can they be removed as part of this project? If so, they could serve
as partial mitigation for the permanent reduction in the stream buffer and its functions. If
not, then additional mitigation will likely be needed.
Response: The existing 48-inch culverts are not within the subject property. We
have no rights to remove or alter them. We are not proposing any work inside the
existing stream. No mitigation should be required for areas outside of our control.
4. Tree removal.
How close to the stream are the two large Douglas fir trees on the western border that
will be removed (see the TIR)?
Response: One Douglas fir tree is 67 feet from the stream, and the other is
150 feet from the stream.
5. Technical Information Report.
With respect to the Technical Information Report, we offer these comments:
On page 5, there is an error. The site is within a salmon conservation plan as it is in
WRIA 8 which is a chapter of the larger Puget Sound Salmon Recovery Plan.
Response: We will update the report to note that our site is within the salmon
conservation plan area of WRIA 8.
The site's stormwater will ultimately drain to known salmon-bearing waters. The project
proposed to use enhanced water quality treatment methods for stormwater which is
good, but the project should also use oil control methods to minimize stormwater
pollutants known to adversely affect salmon.
Response: This is not a high-use site. Per the manual, oil controls are not
required/warranted. Enhanced treatment is adequate to protect the downstream
water quality.
If you have any questions, please call me at (253) 383-2422.
Sincerely,
Scott T. Kaul, PE, LEED AP
Project Manager
STK/lsk
c: Ed Sewell, Sewall Wetland Consulting, Inc.
Dale Fonk, Owner
Glenna Mahar, Graves + Associates
Q:\2019\2190210\WORDPROC\Letters\20200211 Ltr (Resp-Renton) 2190210.10.docx
Soundview Consultants LLC
Environmental Assessment • Planning • Land Use Solutions
2907 Harborview Dr., Suite D, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Phone: (253) 514-8952 Fax: (253) 514-8954
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use 1 Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Technical Memorandum
To: Dale Fonk, ADF Properties LLC File Number: 2087.0001
From: Ann Boeholt, Soundview Consultants LLC
Jake Layman, Soundview Consultants LLC
Date: June 9, 2020
Re: Stream and Fish and Wildlife Habitat Assessment – 4409 Northeast Sunset
Boulevard, Renton, WA 98059 (King County Tax Parcel Number 0323059093)
Dear Mr. Fonk,
Soundview Consultants LLC (SVC) conducted a stream and fish and wildlife habitat assessment of
the approximately 0.81-acre property located at 4409 Northeast Sunset Boulevard in Renton,
Washington in Pierce County, Washington (Figure 1). The site consists of one parcel located in the
Southwest ¼ of Section 03, Township 23 North, Range 05 East, W.M. (King County Tax Parcel
Number 0323059093). This assessment was conducted to support the future construction of a mixed-
use building (commercial/residential) and associated infrastructure on the subject property. SVC
investigated the site to evaluate the regulatory status of the stream known to exist in the southern
portion of the property and to complete a review for other fish and wildlife habitat located on or
adjacent to the subject property. This Technical Memorandum was prepared to document the results
of this assessment and help inform a stream typing determination in order to facilitate the future-
proposed mixed-use construction on the site.
Figure 1. Subject Property Location.
Subject Property
Location
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Stream & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Background Data
Prior to the site investigation, staff conducted background research using U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS) topographic maps, Pierce County Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data, U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS), Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Priority Habitats
and Species (PHS) and SalmonScape mapping tools, Washington State Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) water typing system, City of Renton Surface Water Classifications map, previous
stream habitat assessments in the area, local precipitation data, and various ortho-photographic
resources. Additional research included analysis of LiDAR imagery and 1-foot contours in the
downstream reaches of Honey Dew Creek.
The NWI map (Attachment B1), SalmonScape map (Attachment B3), and the DNR stream typing
map (Attachment B4) do not identify a stream on or near the subject property. These maps indicate
that the upstream extent of Honey Dew Creek (a type N, non-fish bearing waterbody, according to
the DNR stream map) terminates west of Union Avenue Northeast—approximately 1,780 feet west
of the subject property. The PHS map (Attachment B2) does not identify any fish and wildlife habitat
on or near the subject property. The King County Hydrology map (Attachment B5) shows a stream
crossing the subject property along the road (Sunset Blvd), rather than along the southern portion of
the site, but this map does not denote fish presence or absence. The Renton Surface Water
Classifications Map (Attachment B7) identifies the stream reach within this area as a Type Ns stream
and shows a change to a type Np classification downstream of the culvert under Union Avenue
Northeast. LiDar analysis identified three downstream locations along Honey Dew Creek that are
likely natural salmonid barriers (Attachment B10). Additionally, a past stream habitat assessment by
Sewall Wetland Consulting, Inc concluded that the stream reach within the immediate area is a Type
Ns stream (SWC, 2018). No other regulated streams, or priority habitats or species are documented
within 315 feet of the subject property.
The City of Renton’s Stormwater Engineer provided information regarding the as-built condition of
the parallel 615-ft long stormwater culverts downstream of the subject property (Attachment B8)
including photos of the inside of the culverts (Attachment B9). Photos taken inside the culverts
downstream of the subject property in September 2018, when precipitation was above normal, show
that at least one of the culverts clearly has no flow.
Precipitation
Precipitation data was obtained from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
weather station at the Sea-Tac Airport Station in order to obtain percent of normal precipitation
during and preceding the investigation. A summary of data collected is provided in Table 1.
Table 1. May 2020 Precipitation Summary1.
Site Visit
Date
Day
Of Day
Before 1 Week
Prior 2 Weeks
Prior 30 Days Prior
(Observed/Normal) Year to Date
(Observed/Normal)2
Percent of
Normal
(Month/Year)
5/7/20 0.00 0.11 0.51 1.26 2.10/2.43 31.90/31.36 86/102
1. Precipitation volume provided in inches. Data obtained from NOAA (http://w2.weather.gov/climate/xmacis.php?wfo=sew)
for Sea-Tac Airport.
2. Year-to-date precipitation is for the 2019/2020 water year from October 1st, 2019 to the onsite date.
Precipitation levels during the May 2020 site investigation were at statistical normal for both the prior
month and for the 2019/2020 water year (86 percent and 102 percent of normal, respectively). This
precipitation data suggests that relatively normal hydrologic conditions were encountered during the
time of the site investigations, though groundwater in the Pacific Northwest region typically beginning
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Stream & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
to decrease during the late spring. Such conditions were considered in making professional wetland
determinations.
Since our research included review of flow conditions within the stormwater culverts in September of
2018, we also reviewed precipitation records for that time period:
Table 2. September 2018 Precipitation Summary1.
Site Visit
Date
Day
Of Day
Before 1 Week
Prior 2 Weeks
Prior 30 Days Prior
(Observed/Normal) Year to Date
(Observed/Normal)2
Percent of
Normal
(Month/Year)
9/6/18 0.00 0.00 0.00 .12 0.17/1.01 38.2/36.23 17/105
1. Precipitation volume provided in inches. Data obtained from NOAA (http://w2.weather.gov/climate/xmacis.php?wfo=sew)
for Sea-Tac Airport.
2. Year-to-date precipitation is for the 2017/2018 water year from October 1st, 2017 to the onsite date.
Precipitation levels during the September 2018 culvert inspections were below statistical normal for
the preceding 30 days (17 percent of normal) and at normal levels for the calendar year (105 percent
of normal). The difference between .17 (observed rainfall for the 30 days prior) and 1.01 inches
(normal rainfall for the period August 6 to September 5) is slight (less than an inch of rainfall in 30
days) and unlikely to result in a significant change in low flow conditions, as that amount of rainfall
can easily be absorbed by the landscape. Considering that the end of summer/beginning of fall is
generally the driest time of the year in the Pacific Northwest region, this precipitation data suggests
that relatively normal hydrologic conditions were encountered during the time of the September 2018
culvert inspections.
Methods
A formal investigation was performed by qualified SVC staff in May 2020. The investigation consisted
of a walk-through survey of the subject property and accessible areas within 315 feet of this area for
potentially regulated streams, fish and wildlife habitat, and/or priority habitat species. Additional
investigations were conducted down-drainage to get a better understanding of general habitat
conditions for the stream drainage that flows through the property.
Ordinary high water (OHW) mark determinations were made using WSDOE’s method as detailed in
Determining the Ordinary High-Water Mark for Shoreline Management Act Compliance in Washington State
(Anderson et. al., 2016) and the definitions established in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW)
90.58.030(2)(b) and Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 173-22-030(11). To mark the OHW
mark of potentially regulated streams, blue surveyor’s flagging was alpha-numerically labeled and tied
to vegetation.
The fish and wildlife habitat assessment was conducted by a qualified fish and wildlife biologist. The
experienced biologist made visual observations using stationary and walking survey methods for both
aquatic and upland habitats noting any special habitat features or signs of fish and wildlife activity.
Results
The 0.81-acre subject property is located in a residential and commercial setting and is a currently
graded, vacant lot with an undeveloped forested section on the southern end. The subject property is
adjacent to commercial properties to the east and south; private residences with forested areas to the
west; and Northeast Sunset Boulevard to the north.
Honey Dew Creek does cross the southeastern corner of the property, within a mixed coniferous and
deciduous forest stand. The creek is culverted upstream and emerges from this culvert at the eastern
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Stream & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
boundary of the subject property. The vegetation within the forest stand consists of Douglas fir
(Pseudotsuga menziesii), red alder (Alnus rubra) and bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum) with an understory
of salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis), and vine maple (Acer circinatum), as well as non-native invasive species
including Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica), English ivy
(Hedera helix), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), and Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum).
Topography on the site slopes gently from east to west with elevations ranging from approximately
392 feet above mean sea level (amsl) on the northeastern corner of the site to 389 feet amsl on the
southwestern corner of the site along Honey Dew creek. A King County contours map is provided
in Attachment B6.
The site investigation identified one creek, Honey Dew Creek, on the subject property (see site map
in Attachment A). No other potentially regulated wetlands, waterbodies, or fish and wildlife habitat
were identified on or within 315 feet of the subject property.
Honey Dew Creek
A stream exhibiting a defined channel (approximately 4 feet wide on average, 6 to 10 feet wide in a
few areas) was observed crossing the south end of the property. This stream enters the site from a
culvert (approximately 1000 feet long) outflow at the east end of the site. The stream exits the site
onto a residential property to the west and continues on until it enters a dual culvert at the west
boundary of the adjacent property. This culvert is approximately 615 feet long and crosses underneath
the commercial properties to the west and then on under Northeast Sunset Boulevard.
Stream conditions onsite consist of a highly silted substrate throughout the entirety of its bed, a
moderate amount of woody materials, very little pool/riffle structure, and a moderate amount of
overhanging vegetation. Much of this riparian vegetation is dominated by invasive species such as
Himalayan blackberry, yellow flag-iris, Japanese knotweed, English ivy, and reed canary grass. This
stream moves at a moderate pace but appears to be impounded on site relative to flows above and
below this area. Downstream of the site the stream is choked and impeded by reed canary grass
between Northeast Sunset Boulevard and Union Avenue Northeast but does not exhibit the same
pooling or impeded stream flows relative to the reach on-site.
Discussion and Regulatory Considerations
Fish and wildlife habitats and species are regulated features per Renton Municipal Code (RMC) Title
IV, Chapter 3 (Development Regulations – Environmental Regulations and Overlay Districts) and are
subject to protective buffers under the same title.
The City’s stream classification is “based on” the State’s Permanent Water Typing System; however,
there is a key difference in the way the States’ classification and RMC consider physical barriers. The
State’s description for Type F streams discounts physical barriers—it considers that physical barriers
could be removed:
"Type F Water" means segments of natural waters, which are within the bankfull widths of defined channels
and which contain fish habitat, whereas "Fish habitat" means habitat which is used by any fish at any life
stage at any time of the year, including potential habitat likely to be used by fish which could be recovered by
restoration or management and includes off-channel habitat.”
Whereas, per Renton Municipal Code, RMC 4-11-190 DEFINITIONS S, a physical barrier can in fact
be considered impassable and therefore an interruption of Type F waters if the human-made barrier
could not be modified to provide salmonid passage without significant expense:
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use 5 Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
SALMONID MI”GRATION BARRIER: An in-stream blockage that consists of a natural drop (no
human influence) with an uninterrupted slope greater than one hundred percent (100%) (forty five (45) degree
angle) and a height in excess of eleven (11) vertical feet within anadromous salmon-bearing waters or a height
in excess of three (3) vertical feet within resident trout-only bearing waters. Human-made barriers to salmonid
migration (e.g., culverts, weirs, etc.) shall be considered barriers to salmonid migration by this definition, only if
they were lawfully installed; permanent; present a complete barrier to salmonid passage based on hydraulic drop,
water velocity, water depth, or any other feature which would prevent all salmonids from passing upstream; and
in the opinion of the Community and Economic Development Administrator cannot be modified to provide
salmonid passage without resulting in significant impacts to other environmental resources, major transportation
and utility systems, or to the public, and would have significant expense. For the purposes of this definition,
“significant expense” means a cost equal to or greater than fifty percent (50%) of the combined value of the
proposed site buildings, structures, and/or site improvements, and existing buildings, structures, and/or site
improvements to be retained.”
While the DNR stream map designates this reach of Honey Dew Creek as a type N (non-fish), stream
and the City recognizes it as such, the WDFW Area Habitat Biologist has reported seeing resident
trout just downstream of Union Avenue NE (Larry Fisher, personal communication). Mr. Fisher
further stated the array of stormwater culverts immediately upstream of Union Avenue NE are 100%
impassable; however, WDFW considers these long culverts to be impermanent barriers and so may
consider the stream to be a Type F at the subject property location.
Based on our site inspection, the segment of Honey Dew Creek on the subject property meets only
some of the criteria for being considered a Type F stream: it is within a defined channel approximately
4 feet wide on average, 6 to 10 feet wide in a few areas, with a moderate amount of woody material
and a moderate amount of overhanging vegetation. However, this stream reach appears to be
nonseasonal and is not likely to support fish populations for multiple reasons. The stream habitat
onsite is degraded and has deficiencies in both pool/riffle structure and the preferred substrate
(overabundance of silt). There is a lack of spawning habitat in the reach onsite which limits the
potential for breeding in the immediate vicinity. The lack of pools and riffles, impounded flows and
an abundance of detritus likely create conditions conducive to lower dissolved oxygen due to
eutrophication. It appears that the stream lacks flow in the late summer of normal rainfall years.
Additionally, the stream bank is dominated by invasive species including English ivy, reed canary grass,
Japanese knotweed and Himalayan blackberry that degrade stream/riparian habitat in multiple ways.
Invasive species often lack the typical growth pattern that provides ideal shade resources for stream
habitats and tend to outcompete native species that normally provide this benefit (Bennet, 2006).
Invasive species do not attract the types of insect species that stream associated fish and wildlife
species prefer to prey upon (Allan, 2003). Invasive plants often have shallow root structures and
outcompete other species with deeper root systems that typically provide better soil stabilization along
stream banks and this contributes to an increase in bank erosion and streambed siltation (Bennet,
2006). Invasive species such as reed canary grass and yellow flag iris can restrict stream flows which
also increases silt deposition and can lead to increased stream temperatures overall (Bennet, 2006;
Talmage, 2004). Reed canary grass has been shown to increase evapotranspiration and lower available
groundwater in riparian areas which further influences stream flow regimes (Antieau, 1998). Yellow
flag iris and reed canary grass also have been shown to limit the more dynamic, high velocity flows
that create the scour that removes an abundance of deposited silt from the system (Antieau, 1998;
Talmage, 2004).
While stream habitat is definitely one factor determining fish use in this area, it is not the only
component restricting their presence. The overall length of the culverts upstream (~1100 ft) and
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use 6 Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
downstream (~615 ft) are likely prohibitive to fish migration through this area, even if flow did persist
year round. Per RMC 4-11-190 Definitions S: “Salmonid Migration Barrier” these culverts are likely
considered salmonid migration barriers, by the City of Renton, due to their potential limitations on
fish migration and the associated prohibitive cost of removing them. Additionally, the DNR Stream
Typing map, the WDFW SalmonScape map, and the City of Renton Surface Water Classifications
map show the end of fish use ~1/2 of mile downstream of the culvert under Union Avenue Northeast.
This likely reflects the potential barriers created by the culverts under Union Avenue Northeast and
Northeast Sunset Boulevard, as well as the culvert connecting the eastern boundary of the site and the
area upstream of Duvall Ave NE.
Finally, three locations downstream appear (from LiDAR analysis) to comprise natural fish passage
barriers, due to sudden drops (3.7 meters) that exceed the ability of salmonids of all species to pass
over. Natural barriers would, in fact, result in a State classification as a Type N stream.
Considering currently available information about fish use, along with the condition of the physical
and riparian habitat onsite, the likely barriers upstream and downstream, the lack of spawning habitat
and the potential for water quality issues, this area likely does not support any fish populations.
Additionally, this reach is likely restricted from repopulation by barriers upstream and downstream
that have been in place since the early 1980’s and that are too cost prohibitive to remove. Finally, it
appears that the stream reach above Union Avenue Northeast and Northeast Sunset Boulevard lacks
perennial flow. As such, it is our conclusion that this drainage should be considered a Type Ns stream
per RMC 4-3-050.G.7.a.iv., and regulated as such.
Per RMC 4-3-050.G.2, Type Ns streams are subject to standard 50-foot buffers from the delineated
OHW mark with an additional 15-foot critical areas setbacks. However, this buffer width can be
reduced to 40 feet with a Buffer Reduction plan, or 25 feet in some areas with a Buffer Averaging
plan. No other potentially regulated streams and fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas are
identified onsite.
Conclusion
Considering the current stream habitat conditions on site, the lack of perennial flow, the lack of
documented fish use in this area, the evidence of a past assessment agreeing with our findings, and
the potential barrier culverts upstream and downstream of the site, it is SVC’s determination that this
stream does not support thriving fish populations in this area and is potentially permanently restricted
from experiencing any new migration of fish. Accordingly, the stream reach on the subject property
is given a Type Ns classification per Renton Municipal Code, and as such is subject to the regulatory
buffers outlined in the previous section.
If you have any questions, please contact us at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
____________________________ _______________
Ann Boeholt Date
Environmental Planner/Project Manager
June 9, 2020
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use 7 Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
June 9, 2020
____________________________ _________________
Jake Layman Date
Environmental Scientist
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use 8 Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
References
Allan, J.D., M.S. Wipfli, J.P. Caouette, A. Prussian, and J. Rodgers. 2003. Influence of streamside vegetation
on inputs of terrestrial invertebrates to salmonid food webs. Canadian Journal of Fish and Aquatic Science,
60:309-320.
Anderson, P.S., S. Meyer, P. Olson, and E. Stockdale. 2016. Determining the Ordinary High-Water Mark
for Shoreline Management Act Compliance in Washington State. Publication No. 16-06-029. Final Review
Draft. Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program, Washington State Department of
Ecology. Olympia, Washington.
Antieau, C.J. 1998. Biology and Management of Reed Canarygrass, and Implications for Ecological
Restoration. Washington State Department of Transportation. Olympia, Washington
Bennet, Max. 2006. Managing Himalayan Blackberry in Western Oregon Riparian Area. OSU
Extension Service, EM 8894. Corvallis, Oregon
Talmage, E. & E. Kiviat. 2004. Japanese knotweed and water quality on the Batavia Kill in Greene
County, New York: Background information and literature review. Hudsonia Ltd.
http://www.gcswcd.com/stream/knotweed/reports/litreview/JKandwaterquality.pdf
Hitchcock, C.L. & A. Cronquist, Ed. by D. Giblin, B. Ledger, P. Zika, and R. Olmstead. 2018. Flora
of the Pacific Northwest, 2nd Edition. U.W. Press and Burke Museum. Seattle, Washington.
Renton Municipal Code (RMC). 2020. Title IV: Development Regulations – Chapter 3:Environmental
Regulations. Current through May 04, 2020. Website: https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/
Renton/.
Sewall Wetland Consulting, Inc (SWC). 2018. Sunset Critical Areas Report. March 22nd, 2018. Fall
City, Washington.
Washington Administrative Code (WAC). 2020. Title 173: Ecology, Department of - Chapter 22: Adoption
of designations of shorelands and wetlands associated with shorelines of the state. May 06 2020. Website:
https://app.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=173
Washington Administrative Code (WAC). 2020. Title 222: Forest Practices Board - Chapter 16:
Definitions. May 06 2020. Website: https://app.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=222
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment A – Existing Conditions Map
`````````````
`
`
`
`
`
```````````````````XY
Z-5
Z-4
Z-3
Z-2
Z-1
City of Renton, WA, City of Renton - IT GIS and PW Utilities
XXXX NE SUNSET BLVDRENTON, WA 98059
KING COUNTY PARCEL NUMBERS:0323059093
SUNSET HIGHLANDS
SUNSET HIGHLANDS - EXISTING CONDITIONS
¢
0 40 8020 Feet
PRELIMINARYINFORMATION ONLYNOT FOR CONSTRUCTIONSOUNDVIEW CONSULTANTS LLC ASSUMESNO LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FORCONSTRUCTION, IMPROVEMENTS, ORESTIMATES BASED ON THIS PLAN SET
DATE:
JOB:
BY:
SCALE:
FIGURE NO.
6/8/2020
2087.0001
DLS
11 " = 40 '
www.soundviewconsultants.com
2907 Harborview Dr., Suite D, Gig Harbor, WA 98335Phone: (253) 514-8952 Fax: (253) 514-8954
Soundview ConsultantsEnvironmental Assessment • Planning • Land Use Solutions LLC
Type NsStream
XY Culvert
OHWM
Standard 50' Stream Buffer
Potential 40' Reduced Stream Buffer
` `OHW of Type (Ns Stream)
Site Boundary
Culvert
```
`
``
`````
``````
Z-5 Z-4 Z-3 Z-2 Z-1
City of Renton, WA, City of Renton - IT GIS and PW Utilities
SUNSET HIGHLANDS - EXISTING CONDITIONS
¢
0 140 28070 Feet
PRELIMINARYINFORMATION ONLYNOT FOR CONSTRUCTION
www.soundviewconsultants.com
2907 Harborview Dr., Suite D, Gig Harbor, WA 98335Phone: (253) 514-8952 Fax: (253) 514-8954
Soundview ConsultantsEnvironmental Assessment • Planning • Land Use Solutions LLC XXXX NE SUNSET BLVDRENTON, WA 98059
KING COUNTY PARCEL NUMBERS:0323059093
SUNSET HIGHLANDS DATE:
JOB:
BY:
SCALE:
FIGURE NO.
6/8/2020
2087.0001
DLS
1
SOUNDVIEW CONSULTANTS LLC ASSUMESNO LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FORCONSTRUCTION, IMPROVEMENTS, ORESTIMATES BASED ON THIS PLAN SET
OHWM
Standard 50' Stream Buffer
Potential 40' Reduced Stream Buffer
` `OHW of Type (Ns Stream)
SW Culvert
Site Boundary
1 " = 140 '
Type NsStream Sunset Blvd
Whitman CtAnacortes AveSunset Bl
v
d Sunset Blvd
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B – Background Information
This attachment includes a USFWS NWI map (B1); WDFW PHS map (B2); WDFW SalmonScape
map (B3); DNR stream typing map (B4); Pierce County stream and wetland inventory (B5); King
County contours map (B6), City of Renton Surface Water Classifications Map (B7).
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B1 – USFWS NWI Map
Subject Property
Location
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B2 – WDFW PHS Map
Subject Property
Location
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B3 – WDFW SalmonScape Map
Subject Property
Location
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B4 – DNR Stream Typing Map
Subject Property
Location
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B5 – King County Hydrology
Subject Property
Location
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B6 – King County Contours Map
Subject Property
Location
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B7 – Renton Surface Water Classifications Map
Subject Property
Location
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B8 – City of Renton As-Built Plan of CMPA Entrance to Honey Creek
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B9 – September 2018 Photos taken within Stormwater
Culverts Between Whitman Court Northeast and Northeast Sunset
Boulevard
Figure 1: Pipe 107290. September 2018. 54” CMP 111.7 feet upstream
of invert north of NE Sunset Blvd.
Figure 2. Pipe ID: 107291 (parallel to 107290), 54in CMP, 56.8 feet
upstream of invert north of NE Sunset Blvd
(i.e. under NE Sunset Blvd).
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Figure 3. Pipe ID: 107292 (upstream of 107290), 54in CMP. Note the lack of flow and only
remnant puddling. This culvert is downstream of the subject property and represents
normal conditions for this time of year, showing that this stream reach lacks perennial flow.
This corroborates with anecdotal observations of the stream on the subject property
becoming reduced to mud, with no flow, during the late summer and early fall.
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment B10 – Downstream Potential Fish Barriers
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King County
SUNSET HIGHLANDS - DOWNSTREAM POTENTIAL FISH BARRIER EXHIBIT
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0 850 1,70 0425 Fe et
www.soundviewconsultants.com
2907 Harbor view Dr., Suite D, Gig Harbor, WA 98335Phone: (253) 514-8952 Fax: (253) 514-8954
Soundview ConsultantsEnvironmental Assessment • Planning • Land Use SolutionsLLC XXXX NE SUNSET BLVDRENTON, WA 98059
KING COUNTY PARCEL NUM BERS:0323059093
SUNSET HIGHLANDS DATE:
JOB:
BY:
SC ALE:
FIGURE NO.
6/3/2020
2087.0001
DLS
1
Area A
Area B
Area C Ð
King County
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King County
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King County
Area A
Area B
Area C
N/A
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment C – Site Photographs
Stream Conditions On-site Near Eastern Boundary
Invasive Species Present On-site
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Stream Conditions North of NE Sunset Blvd (Downstream)
Stream Conditions (Near East Boundary)
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Location of Crossing at NE Sunset Blvd.
Himalayan Blackberry Dominating the Stream Banks
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Location of Upstream Invert of NE Sunset Blvd Culvert Crossing
Downstream Invert of Culvert on the Eastern Boundary
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
Attachment D – Qualifications
All field inspections, jurisdictional wetland determinations, OHW determinations, habitat
assessments, and supporting documentation, including this Stream and Wetland and Fish and
Wildlife Habitat Assessment prepared for the Sunset Highlands Mixed Use site , were prepared
by, or under the direction of, Ann Boeholt of SVC. Site inspections were performed by Jake Layman
and report preparation was completed by Jake Layman.
Ann Boeholt
Senior Environmental Planner
Professional Experience: 30 years
Ann Boeholt is a Senior Environmental Planner and a Certified Senior Professional Wetland Scientist
with 30 years of experience in aquatic resources management in western Washington. Ann earned a
Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from the Evergreen State College and completed
coursework and a thesis towards a Master of Science in Aquatic Ecology from the University of
Washington’s School of Aquatic and Fisheries Sciences. Ann has formal training and extensive
experience in wetlands delineations and ratings, shorelands management, fish and wildlife and marine
assessments, ordinary high water mark determinations, environmental planning, negotiations and
permitting, native plant selection, care and maintenance, ecological performance monitoring and
scientific data analysis, mitigation banking and alternative mitigation programs. She listed as a
Qualified Wetland Scientist by Pierce County and as a WSDOT Junior BA author.
Ann served as Project Manager for several significant projects within Pierce County, including the
successful development of Pierce County’s In-Lieu Fee Program and the aquatic habitat restoration
design and construction of the 15-acre South Midland Wetland Reserve.
As a Senior Environmental Planner, Ann is responsible for project planning and management,
including researching regulations, analyzing and sharing findings, participating in strategic planning of
projects, reviewing and finalizing assessment reports and permit applications, supporting projects
through the permit review process, and related tasks.
Jake Layman
Environmental Scientist
Professional Experience: 10+ years
Jake Layman is an Environmental Scientist with a varied background in fisheries, wildlife, and aquatic
invertebrate biology and stream and lake ecology. Jakes’s expertise includes endangered species
monitoring, lake limnology assessments, water chemistry profiles, off-channel habitat characterization,
laboratory management, and terrestrial and aquatic amphibian identification with associated habitat
assessments. Jake also has experience in fish population assessments, stream typing, spawning
escapement, environmental disaster recovery, and amphibian toxicology research. Jake has over 10
years of experience at the federal and state level conducting ecological monitoring surveys throughout
eastern and western Washington. He worked with the National Park Service to conduct environmental
compliance monitoring on park construction projects, infrastructure maintenance projects, and federal
highways projects. This position also included environmental spill response, fish exclusion surveys in
support of construction, and effectiveness monitoring on Engineered Log Jam (ELJ) projects. Jake
has worked with the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) to assess and
2087.0001 Sunset Highlands Mixed Use Soundview Consultants LLC
Stream & Wetland & Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment Report June 9, 2020
inventory fish passage barriers and monitor culvert removal projects throughout Western Washington.
While working for WDFW, Jake managed the daily operation for the intensive habitat study, on off-
channel wetlands, for the Chehalis Aquatic Resources Protection Plan (ASRP).
Jake earned Bachelor’s degrees in both Biology, with an Ecology specialization, and Geography, with
a Natural Resource Management specialization, from Central Washington University. In addition, Jake
also has a Minor in Environmental Studies and a Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
and Cartography form Central Washington University. Jake has received 40-hour wetland delineation
training (Western Mtns, Valleys, & Coast and Arid West Regional Supplement), Jake has received
training from the Washington State Department of Ecology in Environmental Negotiations; Navigating
SEPA; Conducting Forage Fish Surveys; Puget Sound Coastal Processes, Shoreline Modifications, and Beach
Restoration; Using the Marine Shoreline Design Guidelines for Marine Shoreline Stabilization; How to Determine the
Ordinary High Water Mark; and Using the Revised Washington State Wetland Rating System (2014) in Western
Washington.