HomeMy WebLinkAboutRS_Approved_Stream_Mitigation_Plan_160718_v1Earth Science + Technology
Stream Assessment and Final Mitigation Plan
Southport Access Road Improvements
Renton, Washington
for
Southport, LLC
July 18, 2016
APPROVED
8/16/2016 rtimmons
PLANNING DIVISION
Stream Assessment and Final Mitigation Plan
Southport Access Road Improvements
Renton, Washington
for
Southport, LLC
July 18, 2016
1101 South Fawcett Avenue, Suite 200
Tacoma, Washington 98402
253.383.4940
Stream Assessment and Final Mitigation Plan
Southport Access Road Improvements
Renton, Washington
File No. 21854-001-00
July 18, 2016
Prepared for:
Southport, LLC
1083 Lake Washington Boulevard North, Suite 50
Renton, Washington 98056
Attention: Scott Rosenstock
Prepared by:
GeoEngineers, Inc.
1101 South Fawcett Avenue, Suite 200
Tacoma, Washington 98402
253.383.4940
David B. Conlin, PWS
Project Biologist
Joseph O. Callaghan, PWS
Associate
DBC:JOC:ab
Disclaimer: Any electronic form, facsimile or hard copy of the original document (email, text, table, and/or figure), if provided, and any attachments are only a copy of the original document. The original document is stored by GeoEngineers, Inc. and will serve as the official document of record.
July 18, 2016 | Page i File No. 21854-001-00
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................................... 1
City of Renton Requirements ............................................................................................................................ 1
Coordination with Other Agencies ..................................................................................................................... 2
STREAM ASSESSMENT .......................................................................................................................................... 2
Water Type.......................................................................................................................................................... 2
Ordinary High Water Mark ................................................................................................................................. 2
Riparian Vegetation Conditions......................................................................................................................... 3
Fish and Wildlife Use ......................................................................................................................................... 3
Stream Summary ............................................................................................................................................... 3
PROPOSED PROJECT ............................................................................................................................................. 4
Analysis of Alternatives ...................................................................................................................................... 5
Impact Evaluation .............................................................................................................................................. 5
Stream Habitat ............................................................................................................................................ 6
Riparian Buffer Vegetation ......................................................................................................................... 6
PROPOSED MITIGATION ........................................................................................................................................ 7
Mitigation Actions .............................................................................................................................................. 7
Functional Evaluation ........................................................................................................................................ 7
Long-Term Monitoring and Maintenance ......................................................................................................... 8
Surety Device ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................................................ 10
LIMITATIONS ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................................................... 11
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Vicinity Map
Figure 2. Baseline Conditions
Figure 3. Proposed Conditions
APPENDICES
Appendix A. Biological Evaluation and Joint Aquatic Resources Permit Application (JARPA) Drawings
Appendix B. Stream Mapping Database Printouts
July 18, 2016 | Page 1 File No. 21854-001-00
INTRODUCTION
GeoEngineers, Inc. (GeoEngineers) was contracted by SECO Development, Inc. (SECO) to complete a stream
assessment, stream channel design, and mitigation plan for the Southport Access Road Improvements
project, which is an action interrelated to the Southport Development Master Plan. The project site is
located in Renton, Washington, between the Southport Development and Lake Washington Boulevard near
the intersection with the access road to Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park (see Figure 1, Vicinity Map).
The Southport Development Project is a 17.5-acre mixed-use community waterfront site that will include a
waterfront hotel, convention center, and parking garage. These facilities have already been or are in the
process of being designed and constructed. To improve traffic flow entering and exiting the Southport
Development, improvements to the surrounding public and private roadways and infrastructure will be
completed. In order to complete the Southport Access Road Improvements project, the existing Johns Creek
crossing needs to be replaced, including removal of three existing pipe culverts under the existing road fill
prism, removal of fill, and replacement with a single box culvert sufficient to accommodate the increased
road width, convey anticipated stream flows, and provide adequate fish passage.
City of Renton Requirements
This report has been prepared to document baseline
stream conditions, project impacts and proposed
mitigation. This report follows City of Renton (City)
Municipal Code (RMC) requirements in accordance with
RMC Title IV (Development Regulations), Chapter 3
(Environmental Regulations and Overlay Districts), as
well as Chapter 8 (Permits), Section 120 (Submittal
Requirements – Specific to Application Type).
Specifically, this report includes components required
for a Stream Assessment Narrative, Stream Mitigation
Plan, and Stream Supplemental Study (AKA Final
Mitigation Plan).
This plan was developed by GeoEngineers biologists with Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) credentials
and a Professional Engineer (PE) with stream design and hydraulic modeling expertise on behalf of SECO
Development, Inc., and Southport, LLC. Mitigation actions proposed as part of this Stream Assessment and
Final Mitigation Plan were developed using recommendations from the interagency guidance document,
Wetland Mitigation in Washington State – Part 2: Developing Mitigation Plans, which was produced jointly
by the Washington Department of Ecology, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, and represents the Best Available Science at this time. This plan includes
recommendations for buffer enhancement and riparian buffer functions for streams as well as wetlands.
This report includes reference to Civil Design Drawings (submitted separately to the City by Southport, LLC,
and not included in this report) and the Biological Evaluation and appended Joint Aquatic Resources Permit
Application (JARPA) Drawings (Appendix A). Drawings included in the JARPA are at 1”=40’ scale. Drawings
included in the Civil Design Drawings are at 1”=10’ or 1”=20’ (varies between sheets). Figures 2 and 3
(Baseline Conditions and Proposed Conditions, respectively) are at 1”=20’. A Boundary and Topographic
Survey of the site is included in the Civil Design Drawings.
Existing Southport Access Road crossing of Johns Creek, viewed
from the east.
July 18, 2016 | Page 2 File No. 21854-001-00
Coordination with Other Agencies
The JARPA application has been provided to the USACE in support of a Clean Water Act permit, and to the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) in support of a Hydraulic Project Approval permit. The
Biological Evaluation has also been provided to the USACE and appropriate federal regulatory agencies
administering the Endangered Species Act. The project was previously evaluated for compliance with the
State Environmental Policy Act as documented in an Environmental Impact Statement and associated
Mitigation Document that was recorded by the City as part of the Southport Planned Action.
STREAM ASSESSMENT
Water Type
For the purposes of this assessment, Johns Creek is considered a Type F (fish-bearing) stream at the project
location. According to the RMC, Type F streams require a 115-foot buffer measured from the Ordinary High
Water Mark (OHWM). The “Streams and Lakes: Water Classes” figure produced by the City of Renton (2013)
indicates Johns Creek as a Class 2 stream below Lake Washington Boulevard, and Class 4 above. Class 2
streams are considered fish-bearing and Class 4 are not. The Washington State Department of Natural
Resources (WDNR) Forest Practices Application Review System (FPARS) online system (DNR 2015)
identifies Johns Creek as Type F. The WDFW Priority Habitat and Species (PHS) map viewer (WDFW 2015)
does not identify a stream at this location. Map printouts obtained from these sources are included in
Appendix B, Stream Mapping Database Printouts.
Ordinary High Water Mark
GeoEngineers biologists conducted a field assessment on July 9, October 19, and October 27, 2015 to
characterize the stream within the project area and delineate the OHWM, which is the jurisdictional limit of
in-stream versus upland habitat by regulatory agencies. The OHWM was identified by examining breaks in
topography, drift lines, shifts in vegetation, and signs of water marks, according to USACE protocol
(USACE 2005) and the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) definition of OHWM
(WAC 173-22-030 § 11).
The OHWM was flagged in the field by a GeoEngineers biologist and surveyed by a Bush, Roed & Hitchings,
Inc., Professional Land Surveyor (PLS). The OHWM is depicted on JARPA Sheet 3 of 10, as well as other
JARPA Sheets and the Civil Design Drawings.
L-R: Johns Creek stream channel and invasive shrub riparian vegetation on the upstream (south) side of the existing crossing where the roadway and culvert
will be expanded; existing pipe culverts; stream channel and riparian vegetation off-site on the downstream (north) side of the site, which will be preserved.
July 18, 2016 | Page 3 File No. 21854-001-00
Riparian Vegetation Conditions
Vegetation on the north side of the existing roadway contains native and ornamental planted landscape
species. The riparian buffer in this area is generally limited to 70 feet at most and much less in some places
(see Figure 2). The south side of the existing roadway is dominated by Himalayan blackberry and a grassy
dog park to the southwest of the site. The riparian buffer in this area is completely degraded, with remaining
invasive shrub vegetation limited to 25 feet from the OHWM.
Existing riparian vegetation provides very limited function on the south (upstream) side of the culverts due
to its limited width and dominance by invasive shrubs that provide little habitat value, woody inputs, or
shade to the stream. Existing vegetation on the north (downstream) side of the culverts provides more
function due to an overhead tree canopy that contributes leaf litter, shade, and some woody debris inputs.
Most vegetation within the clearing limits is less than 6 inches in diameter and includes smaller landscape
trees and native shrubs on the north side, and invasive shrubs (Himalayan blackberry) and grass on the
south side. A total of nine trees with diameters ranging from 6 to 14 inches were identified within the survey
limits, including some installed during previous landscaping as well as some native species in the
undeveloped riparian buffer. A tree survey is included in the Boundary and Topographic Survey drawings.
Baseline vegetation communities are also illustrated on Figure 2. Impacts to riparian vegetation are
addressed in the next section.
Fish and Wildlife Use
Johns Creek is identified as fish-bearing but there is no documented use by salmon. However, Larry Fisher
(personal communication, December 21, 2015) provides anecdotal evidence that coho and sockeye have
been observed spawning in the creek in the vicinity of the project. No other sensitive animal species have
been reported in the area. An osprey nest is identified by WDFW (2015) northeast of the site, on the other
side of Interstate 405. It would be expected that common human-commensal species, such as small
rodents, raccoons, deer, and songbirds, are likely to utilize riparian habitats near the project site at times.
Stream Summary
The following table provides a summary of observed and documented stream characteristics for Johns
Creek at the project location.
July 18, 2016 | Page 4 File No. 21854-001-00
TABLE 1. JOHNS CREEK STREAM SUMMARY
Notes:
1. Stream type according to Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Practices Application Review System
(FPARS) (DNR, 2007).
2. RMC 4-3-050 § G(2).
3. Average channel width and gradient based on general site observations.
4. Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Priority Habitat and Species mapping application (WDFW 2015).
However, anecdotal evidence (Larry Fisher, personal communication) indicates that sockeye and coho salmon may occur in the
creek in the vicinity of the project location.
PROPOSED PROJECT
The purpose of the project is to increase the roadway width of the access road, which is the only
ingress/egress route from the Southport Development, for improved vehicle and pedestrian traffic flow. To
accomplish this project, three 60-inch culverts, 60 feet in length, which currently convey Johns Creek under
the existing access road, will be removed. The culverts will be replaced with a single-span concrete box
culvert, 61 feet in length by 25 feet in span. The channel of Johns Creek will be re-established through the
box culvert where currently no channel exists due to the conveyance by pipe culverts.
The proposed culvert plan is depicted on Civil Design Drawings Sheets S101 and C2-303, as well as JARPA
Sheets 3 and 4 of 10. Proposed grading where the culverts will be removed and the channel restored, is
Basic Information
Water Resources
Inventory Area 8 (Cedar – Sammamish)
Local Jurisdiction City of Renton
Stream Type Fish-bearing (F)1
Standard Riparian Buffer 115 feet2
Channel Width 8-12 feet3
Gradient 0 to 3%3
Seasonality Perennial
Shoreline Jurisdiction Not applicable
Habitat Characteristics
Documented Fish Use None4
Connectivity Drains northwest into Lake Washington approximately 1,000 feet from the site.
Channel Description
Channel is entrenched through the site and banks are defined by roadway, railroad and
other fill historically placed during development of the area. The channel substrate is
dominated by fine sediments with some gravel and limited cobble, including some
sediment deposition inside the culverts.
Riparian/Buffer Condition
The buffer is disturbed with roads and urban commercial and industrial development.
Small strips of Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus) extend along the banks.
Dominant vegetation along the stream channel consists of Himalayan blackberry and
reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea).
July 18, 2016 | Page 5 File No. 21854-001-00
illustrated on the Civil Design Drawings Sheet C2-302. Existing and proposed contours are also shown on
Figures 2 and 3.
Analysis of Alternatives
Several alternatives have been considered to accomplish the project:
■ Preferred Alternative. This alternative is to replace the existing pipe culverts with a single-span
structure and restore the stream channel through the structure. This alternative includes two structural
design options that are functionally very similar. Both structural designs would pass the 100-year flood
event and enable restoration of stream channel habitat and fish passage through the road crossing.
Option 1 (Proposed Alternative). This alternative involves replacing the existing pipe culverts
with a large concrete box culvert. This alternative requires no foundation other than the bed
material on which the bottom of the culvert will rest and is anticipated to require a shorter
construction duration, reducing both environmental and traffic impacts during construction.
This alternative requires more excavation than the other structural design option, but does not
require pile driving or other foundation improvements. This alternative is the least
environmentally damaging alternative because it enables restoration of fish habitat and fish
passage and has minimal other environmental impacts.
Option 2. This alternative involves replacing the existing pipe culverts with a single-span bridge
structure supported on pile-driven foundations. Piles are the only foundation type feasible at
this location because of the presence of peat in the subsurface soils. This option would be
functionally similar to Option 1, but would be more expensive and time-consuming to construct,
would require pile driving, which may be challenging with the overhead lines present at the site,
and would result in more temporary construction impacts to the environment.
■ Pipe Culverts. This alternative would be to replace the existing pipe culverts with longer pipe culverts
to accommodate the increased roadway width. This alternative would result in more environmental
impact than either the No Action or Proposed Alternatives due to displacement of more fish habitat
with no habitat improvements. This alternative would also not likely be supported by regulatory
agencies and not be permittable in the current regulatory environment.
■ No Action. This alternative would not meet the project objectives, resulting in poor traffic access to the
site. This alternative is also not the least environmentally damaging option because the culverts are a
partial fish passage barrier that needs to be corrected and this alternative would not enable the habitat
improvements that are proposed as part of the project.
Based on the information presented above, the Proposed Alternative, Option 1, is preferable to other
alternatives because it is the least environmentally damaging, provides the opportunity to improve stream
channel and fish habitat conditions, is preferred by regulatory agencies, and meets all project objectives.
The Proposed Alternative also includes appropriate minimization, restoration, and mitigation measures to
rectify and compensate for project impacts, as described more fully in the subsequent sections of this
report.
Impact Evaluation
Impacts of the proposed project can be divided into two primary categories: impacts to stream habitat and
impacts to riparian vegetation. Both categories include temporary and permanent impacts. These are
addressed separately in the following sections.
July 18, 2016 | Page 6 File No. 21854-001-00
Stream Habitat
Impacts to stream habitat are primarily beneficial. In particular, permanent impacts will improve stream
channel habitat conditions and fish passage. Temporary impacts, including stream diversion and grading
activities below the OHWM, will be fully restored upon project completion and the adverse impacts of these
activities are more than offset by the permanent improvements.
A fundamental component of the project is to remove three existing undersize pipe culverts and to replace
them with a large box culvert and natural stream channel. This action, which results in restoration of
approximately 800 square feet (SF) of stream channel within the proposed OHWM and 700 SF of adjacent
floodplain within the 100-year flood elevation, will result in substantial overall enhancement to fish habitat.
The existing culverts that will be removed are approximately 60 feet in length. The proposed culvert crossing
is approximately 61 feet in length along the stream and partially overlaps the area where the culverts will
be removed.
Culvert replacement and stream habitat restoration are anticipated to have beneficial effects on habitat
conditions for all fish species that may occur within this reach of Johns Creek. JARPA Sheets 5 and 10 of
10 illustrate proposed stream channel restoration (designs have been advanced as illustrated on Civil
Design Drawings Sheets C2 303 and C2-402).
Riparian Buffer Vegetation
A total of 12,727 SF of existing riparian vegetated areas is present at the project site within the 115-foot
standard buffer for Johns Creek (Figure 2). Vegetation on the north side of the roadway includes mixed
shrubs and trees, including some landscaped areas and some areas with invasive species. Vegetation on
the south side of the roadway is degraded, consisting of an invasive Himalayan blackberry monoculture
stand next to the stream and an off-leash dog park west of the stream within the riparian buffer that
includes some mowed grass cover and bare dirt.
The project will not reduce the existing riparian buffer width. Some existing degraded vegetated areas will
be displaced by the re-aligned roadway. Of the existing vegetation, the proposed project will:
■ Preserve 5,300 SF;
■ Temporarily impact 3,579 SF, which will be fully restored and enhanced upon project completion; and
■ Permanently displace 3,848 SF.
Permanent impacts (3,848 SF) will occur exclusively to the degraded vegetation (Himalayan blackberry and
grassy dog park) on the south side of the road (see Figure 2). All temporary impacts will be stabilized with
native vegetation. Temporary impact areas are identified as “Restored/Enhanced” on Figure 2 and the
planting plan is included as JARPA Sheets 6 and 7 of 10. All restoration/enhancement of temporary impacts
will utilize native riparian plantings resulting in functional improvement to the existing riparian buffer.
Two 6-inch conifer trees will be removed from previously landscaped areas within the clearing limits. All
other vegetation that will be removed is less than 6 inches in diameter and includes smaller landscape
trees and native shrubs on the north side, and invasive shrubs (Himalayan blackberry) and grass on the
south side. Seven trees within the survey limits with diameters ranging from 6 to 14 inches, which are
generally native species in the undeveloped riparian buffer, will be preserved and protected during
July 18, 2016 | Page 7 File No. 21854-001-00
construction. Protective measures will include placement of high visibility fencing at the clearing limits. All
temporarily cleared construction areas will be restored at completion of the project.
PROPOSED MITIGATION
Mitigation is proposed to offset temporary impacts to in-stream habitat resulting from stream diversion,
grading, and other construction activities, as well as permanent and temporary impacts to riparian buffer
vegetation resulting from clearing and grading, excavation, and construction of the new culvert and
roadway. Anticipated impacts of the project are documented in the previous sections. The mitigation
discussed in the following sections has been designed to mitigate these impacts.
Mitigation Actions
Proposed mitigation focuses on two primary actions:
■ Stream channel improvements. The proposed project will result in improvements to fish habitat that
are integral to the project design. As described in the preceding section, temporary impacts to stream
channel habitat will include stream diversion and grading activities below the OHWM. The temporary
impacts of these activities will be mitigated through removal of existing pipe culverts and associated
road fill, replacement with a larger box culvert, and re-establishment of open channel where the pipe
culverts and fill were formerly located. A total of approximately 1,500 SF of stream channel and
associated floodplain will be re-established as a result of the project where the culverts and fill were
formerly located.
■ Riparian vegetation restoration/enhancement and re-establishment. As described in the preceding
section, the project will result in both temporary and permanent impacts to riparian buffer vegetation.
Temporary impacts will be fully restored and enhanced upon project completion, resulting in greater
riparian function than the existing degraded conditions provide. Most existing riparian vegetation is
degraded and will be replaced with suitable native species within the site parcel boundary upstream
and downstream of the project area. Permanent impacts, which amount to 3,848 SF of highly degraded
existing riparian vegetation that will be displaced by the new roadway, will be mitigated in part by the
functional lift provided by vegetation enhancement where temporary impacts occur (grading and site
access) and in part through re-establishment of riparian vegetation where no vegetation currently
exists. Restoration/enhancement is proposed in the amount of 3,579 SF of temporarily impacted
vegetation and re-establishment is proposed in the amount of 2,348 SF of currently un-vegetated area.
Figure 3 illustrates proposed restoration and mitigation plantings. JARPA Sheets 6 and 7 of 10 illustrate
the proposed planting areas and plant species selection.
Functional Evaluation
The proposed project will result in an overall aesthetic improvement to the site. The plan will not be
materially detrimental to any other property or the City as a whole. Proposed mitigation in the form of culvert
and fill removal, channel restoration and riparian plantings will be completed on-site and would not result
in future mitigation requirements for adjacent or abutting properties because there will not be any new
buffer requirements created as a result of this project.
Stream channel improvements will provide a net benefit to fish habitat conditions, including improved
channel configuration, sediment characteristics, and fish passage functions. Fish passage will be enhanced
July 18, 2016 | Page 8 File No. 21854-001-00
due to removal of the existing culverts, which improves fish passage over a range of flows. Permanent
creation of new stream channel and associated floodplain habitat will be accomplished where the culverts
are removed. The entire section of channel within the project limits will be restored with streambed
sediment (cobbles and gravel) and boulder clusters for fish habitat enhancement. Replacing the undersized
pipe culverts with a larger box culvert will not only improve fish passage but will also allow for more natural
hydraulic processes as the water flows vary across seasons and years. Please see also the Biological
Evaluation (Appendix A) for a complete analysis of impacts and benefits to fish habitat and riparian
conditions.
Riparian buffer restoration/enhancement and re-establishment will result in no net loss of stream and
riparian function because improvements to water quality, hydrologic, and habitat functions are anticipated
as a result of improved vegetation quality in the riparian buffer. Clearing, grading, and other construction
activities will result in removal of invasive vegetation, limited native vegetation, and some landscaped areas
on the stream embankments. Permanent buffer impacts are limited to existing degraded areas with limited
functions.
The buffer width will be increased in some places as a result of re-establishment of vegetation. There will
be no reduction in buffer width, although there will be a limited reduction in total buffer area (approximately
1,500 SF: 3,848 SF of permanent impact less 2,348 SF of riparian vegetation re-establishment) resulting
from roadway widening at the crossing. This impact is limited to highly degraded vegetation areas adjacent
to the existing roadway and is offset by improvements to riparian functions in the restored/enhanced
(3,579 SF) and re-established (2,348 SF) buffer areas, as well as the re-establishment of 1,500 SF of
stream channel and associated floodplain habitat where the existing culverts and road fill will be removed.
Restoration/enhancement following temporary impacts and re-establishment of riparian area will result in
a functional lift to riparian functions, including water quality functions, by replacing degraded habitat with
higher-quality native riparian habitat.
Vegetation that will be removed generally includes shrubs with only two small trees, 6 inches in diameter,
which were installed as previous landscaping. There are no native trees that will be affected by construction;
all affected trees were planted as part of prior landscaping. Most existing vegetation is limited to shrubs
and small trees due to the presence of overhead power lines at the site. The planting plan includes a variety
of native shrub and groundcover species. Several of these shrub species, including Pacific willow (Salix
lucida) and vine maple (Acer circinatum) can grow into small trees as they mature but would be acceptable
as plantings under power lines.
Vegetation enhancements and amended soils will also improve flow retention and natural infiltration of
stormwater within the riparian buffer. Stormwater runoff from new paved surfaces associated with the
upgraded crossing will receive flow control in new catch basins and basic water quality treatment via
Contech ZPGTM cartridges installed in the catch basins. Elimination of the dog park from within the riparian
buffer is also likely to improve water quality by removing a potential source of water quality degradation.
Long-Term Monitoring and Maintenance
The property is owned and operated by Southport, LLC, and is used for ingress to and egress from the
Southport Development and Puget Sound Energy’s property. Southport, LLC, provides landscape and
roadway maintenance at the project site and will continue to do so following completion of the project. The
July 18, 2016 | Page 9 File No. 21854-001-00
proposed project is anticipated to be beneficial to stream ecological processes. No other actions are
proposed at this site that would affect the mitigation area.
Channel enhancements will be documented in an as-built record at the conclusion of construction, which
will be provided to the City as evidence of successful mitigation. Riparian plantings will also be documented
in an as-built record and maintained and monitored for 5 years post-construction to ensure survival of
plantings and success of re-vegetation efforts. Maintenance actions may include periodic weed removal,
watering during drought seasons, replacement of plants that do not survive, and removal of trash or debris.
Monitoring will be conducted annually during Years 1, 2, 3 and 5 (four total monitoring events) to document
plant survival and vegetation cover. Specific performance standards that will be evaluated during
monitoring events are:
■ Minimum 90 percent survival of planted individuals throughout the monitoring period.
■ Maximum 20 percent cover by invasive weed species identified as Regulated Class A, B or C Noxious
Weeds by the King County Weed Board.
Construction activities that may affect stream and riparian habitats will be monitored by a consulting
biologist. GeoEngineers routinely provides as-built documentation and post construction monitoring for
wetland, stream and other habitat mitigation projects. GeoEngineers biologists have the necessary
experience and expertise to complete habitat monitoring and to suggest corrective actions if riparian
plantings do not succeed. SECO Development, Inc., will retain GeoEngineers biologists, or another equally
qualified firm, to provide design guidance during advancement of the design drawings, construction
monitoring for fish protection and habitat installations, and post-construction documentation and
monitoring.
Surety Device
SECO Development, Inc., is prepared to provide a surety device as required by the City. According to
RMC 4-8-120, the standard surety device for a stream mitigation plan is 150 percent of the estimated cost
of remedial actions if the mitigation plan is unsuccessful. SECO Development, Inc., and Southport, LLC,
have the financial resources to implement the project as demonstrated through ongoing development
activities associated with the site and revenue generated as a result.
An estimated cost to implement the mitigation plan, and proposed Surety Device in the amount of 150
percent of this cost, is included in Table 2, below.
TABLE 2. OPINION OF PROBABLE MITIGATION COSTS
Item Form Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost
1. Plantings (installed)
Deciduous Shrubs/Trees containerized 80 $12.00 $960.00
Perennials and Grasses containerized 40 $12.00 $480.00
Willows and Salmonberry live stakes 225 $9.00 $2,025.00
Irrigation LS $5,000.00 $5,000.00
July 18, 2016 | Page 10 File No. 21854-001-00
Item Form Quantity Unit Cost Total Cost
1. Plantings (installed)
Mulch 45 CY $60.00 $2,700.00
SUBTOTAL $11,165.00
2. Stream Habitat
Streambed Sediment 681 tons $25.00 $17,025.00
Habitat Boulders 291 tons $40.00 $11,640.00
Installation & Grading 972 tons $10.00 $9,720.00
SUBTOTAL $38,385.00
3. Maintenance, Monitoring and Contingency
Maintenance & Monitoring (5 years @ $4,000/year) $20,000.00
As-built Design Plan (one-time event) $4,000.00
SUBTOTAL $24,000.00
TOTAL COST TO IMPLEMENT MITIGATION PLAN $73,550.00
4. Required Amount for Bond
TOTAL AMOUNT FOR BONDING (150% OF TOTAL COST) $110,325.00
SUMMARY
GeoEngineers has completed this Stream Assessment and Final Mitigation Plan on behalf of
Southport, LLC, to support Land Use permit applications with the City of Renton and to ensure compliance
with applicable components of the RMC. The project will affect in-stream and riparian buffer habitat
associated with Johns Creek, a fish-bearing tributary of Lake Washington, as a result of culvert removal,
replacement, and associated activities. Stream channel improvements and restoration/enhancement and
re-establishment of riparian vegetation are proposed in mitigation for temporary and permanent impacts.
These mitigation actions are expected to fully mitigate project actions resulting in no net loss of ecological
function. The net result of the project will be an improvement to in-stream and riparian buffer habitat
conditions that will benefit fish species that occupy the stream, as well as other wildlife that may use the
affected habitat areas.
LIMITATIONS
GeoEngineers has prepared this report in general accordance with the scope and limitations of our
proposal. Within the limitations of scope, schedule and budget, our services have been executed in
accordance with the generally accepted practices for stream assessment, delineation, and habitat
July 18, 2016 | Page 11 File No. 21854-001-00
mitigation in this area at the time this report was prepared. No warranty or other conditions, express or
implied, should be understood.
This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of SECO Development, Inc., authorized agents and
regulatory agencies following the described methods and information available at the time of the work. No
other party may rely on the product of our services unless we agree in advance to such reliance in writing.
The information contained herein should not be applied for any purpose or project except the one originally
contemplated.
The applicant is advised to contact all appropriate regulatory agencies (local, state and federal) prior to
design or construction of any development to obtain necessary permits and approvals.
REFERENCES
City of Renton. 2013. Figure 4-3. Streams and Lakes: Water Classes.
City of Renton Municipal Code (RMC). Title IV. Development Regulations. Available at:
http://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Renton/#!/RentonNT.html
Riley, Don T. 2005. Ordinary High Water Mark Identification. United States Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE), Regulatory Guidance Letter, No. 05-05).
Washington State Administrative Code. 2007. WAC 173-22-030. Definitions. Available at:
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=173-22-030
Washington State Administrative Code. 1997. WAC 222-16-030. Water Typing System. Available at:
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=222-16-030
Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). 2015. Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) on
the Web. Available at: http://wdfw.wa.gov/mapping/phs/
Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 2015. Forest Practices Application Review
System (FPARS) Mapping Application. Available at:
https://fortress.wa.gov/dnr/protectiongis/fpamt/index.html?maptheme=Water Type&extent=-
14385498.437950825,5552851.051296187,-12532664.872318646,6457865.466192433.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 2005. Regulatory Guidance Letter No. 05-05, Ordinary High Water Mark
Identification, December 7, 2005.
µ
SITE
Vicinity Map
Figure 1
Johns Creek Bridge Project
Renton, Washington
2,000 2,0000
Feet
Data Source: Mapbox Open Street Map, 2015
Notes:
1. The locations of all features shown are approximate.2. This drawing is for information purposes. It is intended to assist in showing features discussed in an attached document. GeoEngineers, Inc. cannot guarantee the accuracy and content of electronic files. The master file is stored by GeoEngineers, Inc. and will serve as the official record of this communication.
Projection: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 10N
P:\21\21854001\GIS\MXDs\2185400100_F01_VicinityMap.mxd Date Exported: 01/08/16 by cchelf
20 0 20
Feet
Notes:
1. The locations of all features shown are approximate.2. This drawing is for information purposes. It is intendedto assist in showing features discussed in an attached document. GeoEngineers, Inc. cannot guarantee the accuracy and contentof electronic files. The master file is stored by GeoEngineers, Inc.and will serve as the official record of this communication.
Projection: NAD 1983 HARN StatePlane Washington North FIPS 4601 Feet
P:\21\21854001\GIS\MXDs\2185400100_F02_BaselineConditions.mxd Date Exported: 07/13/16 by dconlin Johns Creek
Existing Culverts
3231302928272624232221252030
29
28
27
2
6
2
5
3124
27
26
21 20302928272625242322212827262625242322
3332292827262
019
33
2524 3
1
30 21201
9 24
Data Source: Existing vegetation from cad files, Aerial fromGoogle Earth 2014
Baseline Conditions
Southport Access Road Improvements
Renton, Washington
Figure 2
Legend
Site Boundary
Existing Contours
Existing Culvert
Grass turf (dog park)
Invasive shrub monoculture (Himalayan blackberry)
Mixed shrubs and trees
Existing OHWM Johns Creek
20
20 0 20
Feet
Notes:
1. The locations of all features shown are approximate.2. This drawing is for information purposes. It is intendedto assist in showing features discussed in an attached document. GeoEngineers, Inc. cannot guarantee the accuracy and contentof electronic files. The master file is stored by GeoEngineers, Inc.and will serve as the official record of this communication.
Projection: NAD 1983 HARN StatePlane Washington North FIPS 4601 Feet
P:\21\21854001\GIS\MXDs\2185400100_F03_ProposedConditions.mxd Date Exported: 07/13/16 by dconlin Johns CreekProposed Box Culvert
SidewalkSidewalk
Sidewalk
ExistingImpervious
ExistingImpervious
292827262
52
4
2
32
2
2
1
3029282724232221262524232221
252
4
2
3
22212030
282726
31
30 3126202920
Data Source: Proposed vegetation from cad files, Aerial fromGoogle Earth 2004
Proposed Conditions
Southport Access Road Improvements
Renton, Washington
Figure 3
Legend
Site Boundary
Proposed Contours
Proposed Road
Proposed Bridge and Curb Lines
Proposed Channel (restore 800 sq ft)
Proposed Vegetation
Preserved (5,300 sq ft)
Restored/Enhanced (3,579 sq ft)
Re-Established (2,348 sq ft)
Permanent Impact (3,848 sq ft)
20
APPENDIX A Biological Evaluation (and JARPA Drawings)
Earth Science + Technology
Biological Evaluation
Johns Creek Bridge Project
Renton, Washington
for
Southport LLC
March 3, 2016
Biological Evaluation
Johns Creek Bridge Project
Renton, Washington
for
Southport LLC
March 3, 2016
1101 South Fawcett Avenue, Suite 200
Tacoma, Washington 98402
253.383.4940
Biological Evaluation
Johns Creek Bridge Project
Renton, Washington
File No. 21854-001-00
March 3, 2016
Prepared for:
Southport LLC
1083 Lake Washington Boulevard North, Suite 50
Renton, Washington 98056
Attention: Scott Rosenstock
Prepared by:
GeoEngineers, Inc.
1101 South Fawcett Avenue, Suite 200
Tacoma, Washington 98402
253.383.4940
David B. Conlin, PWS
Biologist
Bruce A. Stirling, PWS
Senior Biologist
Joseph O. Callaghan, PWS
Associate Biologist
DBC:BAS:JOC:ab
Disclaimer: Any electronic form, facsimile or hard copy of the original document (email, text, table, and/or figure), if provided, and any attachments are only a copy of the original document. The original document is stored by GeoEngineers, Inc. and will serve as the official document of record.
March 3, 2016| Page i File No. 21854-001-00
Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1. Project Purpose ....................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2. Project Location and Site Description ................................................................................................... 1
2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION .............................................................................................................................. 2
2.1. Construction Activities ............................................................................................................................ 2
2.2. Timing ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.3. Interrelated and Interdependent Actions .............................................................................................. 3
2.4. Construction Equipment and Materials ................................................................................................. 3
2.5. Impact Avoidance and Minimization Measures .................................................................................... 4
3.0 PROJECT AND ACTION AREAS ................................................................................................................... 5
3.1. Construction-Related Noise.................................................................................................................... 5
3.2. Habitat Alteration .................................................................................................................................... 6
3.3. Fish Exclusion, Removal and Dewatering .............................................................................................. 6
3.4. Water Quality ........................................................................................................................................... 6
4.0 SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITAT .............................................................................................................. 7
5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE ...................................................................................................................... 8
5.1. Terrestrial Habitat ................................................................................................................................... 8
5.2. Freshwater and Riparian Habitats ......................................................................................................... 9
6.0 ANALYSIS OF EFFECTS ............................................................................................................................... 9
6.1. Construction-Related Noise.................................................................................................................. 10
6.2. Habitat Alteration .................................................................................................................................. 10
6.3. Fish Exclusion, Removal and Dewatering ............................................................................................ 10
6.4. Degradation of Water Quality ............................................................................................................... 11
7.0 EFFECT DETERMINATIONS ...................................................................................................................... 11
8.0 CONCLUSIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 11
9.0 LIMITATIONS ............................................................................................................................................. 12
10.0 REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................ 12
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Vicinity Map
Figure 2. Action Area Map
APPENDICES
Appendix A. Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Evaluation
Appendix B. Project Design Plans
Appendix C. Species Lists from NMFS and USFWS
Appendix D. Site Photographs
March 3, 2016| Page 1 File No. 21854-001-00
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The Southport Development is a 17.5-acre mixed-use community waterfront development that includes a
353-room hotel, convention center, and associated parking garage. The development is located adjacent
to the Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park and Lake Washington in Renton, Washington (Figure 1). To
improve traffic flow entering and exiting the Southport Development, widening of the existing access road
is proposed. Widening the existing access road will be accomplished by removing three existing 60-inch
pipe culverts that currently convey Johns Creek through the existing road prism, and replacing the culverts
with a single-span bridge.
GeoEngineers, Inc. was contracted by Southport LLC to prepare this Biological Evaluation (BE) addressing
the Johns Creek Bridge Project (“project”). The project addressed in this BE includes all elements necessary
to make the access road improvements at the Johns Creek crossing, such as: removal of culverts,
construction of a replacement bridge, associated roadway work on the bridge over the water, and
associated work in the existing and newly created channel where the culverts are removed. Construction
of the project will involve work within, adjacent to, and over the stream channel, including limited work in
the channel below the existing ordinary high water mark (OHWM), as well as creation of a new channel
where the culverts are removed. The project requires a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE) under their authority to administer Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA). Because of this
federal nexus, the project is also required to comply with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of
1973 and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Management Act (MSA). The purpose of this BE is to present a
description of project effects and project-specific species and habitat information pertinent to the
consultation process for ESA and MSA compliance. An Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) evaluation is included
as Appendix A to facilitate MSA compliance.
1.1. Project Purpose
Access road improvements, specifically roadway widening and an increase in the number of traffic lanes,
are needed to accommodate increased anticipated traffic levels once the mixed-use development is
complete. The existing culverts and road fill will be removed and replaced with a bridge to allow for a
widened roadway with a minimal increase to the footprint of the crossing along the length of Johns Creek,
as well as to improve flood flow conveyance and improve fish habitat and passage conditions (Appendix B,
Sheets 3, 5, 9 and 10).
1.2. Project Location and Site Description
The Johns Creek Bridge site is located west of the Lake Washington Boulevard and Houser Way intersection
in Renton, Washington (Figure 1). The crossing is located within Section 8 of Township 23 North and
Range 05 East of the Willamette Meridian (W.M.). The Project Area was investigated for wetlands and
streams by GeoEngineers. No wetlands were identified at the project site and the OHWM of Johns Creek
was flagged and surveyed for incorporation onto site plans (Appendix B, Sheet 3). Riparian vegetation
surrounding the stream channel is dominated by invasive Himalayan blackberry. For more information on
baseline habitat conditions at the site, refer to Section 5.0 of this report.
March 3, 2016| Page 2 File No. 21854-001-00
2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1. Construction Activities
Preliminary design drawings are included in Appendix B. Project construction activities, which are listed in
the approximate anticipated construction sequence, include:
■ Traffic Control. Traffic Control Devices will be installed prior to beginning construction activities.
Signage, barriers and flagging stations, if applicable, will be placed within the road right-of-way and
outside of critical areas.
■ Temporary Erosion and Sedimentation Control (TESC) BMP Installation. General TESC Best
Management Practices (BMPs) will be installed in accordance with an approved TESC and Construction
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
■ Vegetation Clearing. The project will require the removal of some existing shrub and herbaceous
vegetation (primarily invasive blackberry and landscape plantings) along the stream channel within the
work area. However, the disturbed vegetation will consist primarily of Himalayan blackberry and the
clearing activities will be confined to the minimum area required to remove culverts, install the bridge,
construct the new roadbed, and perform stream channel improvements.
■ Culvert Removal and Bridge Construction. It is anticipated that the bridge will be constructed in two
phases to maintain road access to Southport during construction. The southern half of the bridge and
associated abutments will be constructed first while traffic continues to use part or all of the existing
road. Once traffic can be re-directed onto the new half-bridge, the existing roadway will be demolished,
fill prism excavated, culverts removed, and new stream channel constructed. This will be followed by
construction of the second (northern) half of the bridge and associated abutments. The proposed
bridge consists of two structural plate (galvanized steel) single-span structures placed on concrete
abutments, which will be cast-in-place and located outside of the OHWM. Concrete abutments will be
pile-supported; 8-inch steel pipe piles are anticipated to be driven using an impact hammer.
■ Earthwork. The project will require earthwork both within and outside of the OHWM. The majority of the
project’s earthwork will consist of excavating the roadway embankment over the existing culverts.
Excavation, grading and limited backfill will be necessary to construct bridge abutments and the stream
channel and new roadway embankments after removing the existing culverts. Temporary shoring may
be used to isolate the excavation areas for the abutments, which are outside of the OHWM, from the
stream channel. Approximately 55 cubic yards of streambed sediment will be placed to a depth of 1
foot throughout the restored stream channel to enhance fish habitat conditions. Streambed gravel
sizing and distribution will be in accordance with Washington State Department of Transportation
(WSDOT) Standard Specification 9-03.11 (WSDOT, 2016). Approximately 25 cubic yards of streambed
sediment or 4-inch streambed cobbles per WSDOT Standard Specification 9-03.11 will be placed on
the stream banks outside the ordinary high water (OHW) within the bridge footprint as scour
countermeasure.
■ Road Construction. Each bridge section and bridge approaches will be finished with hot-mix asphalt
and gravel base course (approaches only), and then striping and guard rails will be added.
■ Work Area Exclusion, Fish Removal and Dewatering. It is anticipated that abutment construction and
placement of the first bridge half will be completed without in-water work. Removal of culverts and
associated fill will require a temporary stream diversion (Appendix B, Sheet 8). The work area will be
March 3, 2016| Page 3 File No. 21854-001-00
isolated and fish will be excluded and removed prior to dewatering. Fish exclusion and dewatering will
follow approved protocol in accordance with the ESA consultation and Washington State Department
of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) permit. It is anticipated that the temporary
stream diversion will require a system of coffer dams, pumps and hoses to convey the stream around
the work area. Once the removal of culverts and fill are complete and the channel has been
constructed, flow will be redirected back into the stream channel and exclusion systems will be
removed.
■ Mitigation and Restoration Activities. All temporary construction impacts will be restored following
completion of construction activities. Within the riparian buffer of Johns Creek, native shrubs and/or
trees will be installed to establish a native riparian community, as shown in Appendix B, Sheets 6 and
7. Outside of the riparian buffer, exposed bare soils will be restored with landscaping and/or grass
hydroseed.
2.2. Timing
Construction is planned to begin in summer 2016 and will require approximately 3 months to complete. All
work within the OHWM will be conducted during the in-water work window for fish protection, which is from
July 1 through August 31, or as modified in permit conditions that apply to the project as a result of WDFW
HPA and USACE Clean Water Act approvals. Site mobilization, preparation, and specific construction
activities outside the OHWM that do not require in-water work may be conducted outside of the approved
in-water work window.
2.3. Interrelated and Interdependent Actions
Interrelated actions are actions that are part of a larger action and depend on the larger action for its
justification (50 CFR 402.02). The proposed action itself can be part of a larger action, or may require
additional related actions for its completion. The proposed Johns Creek Bridge project is interrelated to the
Southport Development, representing one component of the overall plan for the site. However, access road
improvements and associated culvert removal are a voluntary component of the project and are not
required in order to complete other parts of the development. The Southport Development has already
received local City of Renton SEPA approval and many components of the Southport Development have
already been completed or are currently under construction. None of the other elements of the Southport
Development construction involve in-water work and are therefore, not subject to Clean Water Act
permitting or ESA compliance. Therefore, for the purpose of environmental permitting for the Johns Creek
Bridge Project, it is considered an independent component proposed to ease traffic congestion at the site
and improve environmental conditions within, and adjacent to, the creek.
Interdependent actions are actions that have no independent utility apart from the proposed action (50 CFR
402.02). There are no interdependent actions associated with the proposed project.
2.4. Construction Equipment and Materials
Cranes will be used to drive bridge piles, construct bridge piers and place bridge girders. Standard heavy
equipment will be used to remove road embankment material, replace and compact backfill materials
around the bridge and to place streambed gravel. The following equipment is anticipated to be used during
project construction. This list is not exhaustive and may be modified by the contractor based on equipment
and material availability and/or other unforeseen events that may occur during construction.
March 3, 2016| Page 4 File No. 21854-001-00
■ Excavator
■ Backhoe
■ Road grader
■ Compactor
■ Front-end loader
■ Crane
■ Impact pile driver
■ Paver and roller
■ Pumps
■ Hoses
The following is a list of anticipated consumable materials to be used during construction.
■ Crushed rock
■ Structural fill
■ 8-inch steel pipe piles
■ Structural plate bridge and poured concrete footings
■ Asphalt
■ Roadway finish materials (e.g., paint, signage, guardrails, etc.)
■ Soil amendments, native plants and mulch
■ Streambed gravel and fish habitat boulders
2.5. Impact Avoidance and Minimization Measures
A variety of conservation measures and BMPs will be utilized to reduce impacts to the environment during
construction. The following conservation measures will be taken to ensure that impacts to plants, fish and
wildlife are mitigated throughout the duration of the project.
■ The project will obtain and comply with conditions that will be outlined in the HPA permit issued for the
project by WDFW and the Clean Water Act Section 404 Permit issued by the USACE.
■ All work within the OHWM of the stream channel will be conducted during the approved work windows
for fish species that may occur in the Project Area.
■ Disturbance will be limited to those areas necessary for construction, which will be identified on site
plans and marked on the site before construction begins.
■ If at any time, as a result of project activities, fish are observed in distress, a fish kill occurs, or water
quality problems develop (including equipment leaks or spills), immediate notification shall be made
to the WDFW Area Biologist listed in the HPA.
March 3, 2016| Page 5 File No. 21854-001-00
■ Construction activities will be performed during daylight hours, which are expected to be from 7:00 AM
to 8:00 PM Monday through Friday, and 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Saturday.
■ Equipment staging and/or materials storage will be limited to non-vegetated surfaces, such as the
existing road bed or adjacent cleared areas whenever possible. Minor vegetation removal and site
preparation activities will be employed as necessary to maintain staging and materials storage sites.
■ A Construction Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), including TESC measures will be fully
implemented, in accordance with local permit requirements. Appropriate erosion control measures will
be implemented at appropriate locations.
■ A Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan will be prepared, approved by City of
Renton, and implemented by the contractor. The plan will be site-specific and cover the project scope
of work.
■ SWPP and SPCC Plans will be monitored by a Certified Erosion Sediment Control Lead (CESCL)
according to Ecology regulations.
■ Equipment used for this project shall be free of external petroleum-based products while the work is
performed around the water. Equipment shall be checked daily for leaks, and any necessary repairs
shall be completed prior to commencing work activities along or above the creek. Heavy equipment
shall be washed free of deleterious material prior to commencement of work.
■ All debris resulting from construction shall be removed from the Project Area and prevented from
entering the stream.
■ Waste materials will be transported off site and for disposal in accordance with applicable regulations.
■ Work will be in compliance with all other applicable local, state and federal regulations and restrictions.
3.0 PROJECT AND ACTION AREAS
The Project Area includes all areas where construction activities will occur, including those areas impacted
by removal of culverts, construction of the bridge, and associated earthwork, channel construction, and
road construction. The Project Area is identified as a roughly rectangular area around the existing crossing,
approximately 120 feet in length (North-South) along the Johns Creek channel between property lines, and
60 feet in width (East-West) perpendicular to the stream.
The Action Area for the project is defined by the geographical effects of the action on the environment and
was identified for this BE by temporary construction-related noise, habitat alteration, fish removal, and
water quality. Figure 2 provides a detailed illustration of the Project and Action Areas. Descriptions of the
spatial extent (zone of influence) for each effect of the project used to identify the Action Area are included
in the following sections.
3.1. Construction-Related Noise
We used guidance provided by WSDOT (2015) to identify the extent that in-air noise will permeate the
environment surrounding the project site. The extent construction noise is expected to permeate the in-air
environment is dictated by operation of construction equipment. There will be no underwater noise
associated with this project because construction activities within the OHWM will be completed when the
stream channel is dry.
March 3, 2016| Page 6 File No. 21854-001-00
Construction equipment, such as graders, pavers and rollers, are anticipated to generate in-air noise for
most of the project actions at the approximate level of 91 decibels (dB) at 50 feet from the source (WSDOT,
2015). However, an impact pile driver, which will be used for approximately 2 to 3 days for installation of
steel pipe piles, generates in-air noise at an approximate level of 110 dB at 50 feet from the source
(WSDOT, 2015). The project site is surrounded by a combination of paved, vegetated and built areas with
a substantial level of vertical structure (e.g., trees and buildings), resulting in a “soft-site” condition that is
anticipated to attenuate point-source construction noise at an approximate rate of 7.5 dBA per doubling of
distance from the noise source (WSDOT, 2015). According to the WSDOT Biological Assessment
Preparation Manual, urban areas are characterized by ambient sound levels that range from 60 to 65
decibels (WSDOT, 2015). Since the project is located in an urban area adjacent to railroad tracks and busy
roadways (Lake Washington Boulevard), the ambient baseline sound levels are estimated to be 65
decibels.
Noise analysis indicates that in-air noise generated by pile driving may exceed ambient conditions for up to
approximately 3,200 feet (0.6 mile) surrounding the project site. The zone of influence for
construction-related noise is therefore centered at the project site and extends approximately 3,200 feet
(0.6 mile) into the air hemispherical above land surfaces. This zone of influence does not affect underwater
environments, including Johns Creek, and does not extend into aquatic habitat associated with Lake
Washington.
3.2. Habitat Alteration
The zone of influence for habitat alteration is limited to portions of the existing stream channel and adjacent
riparian areas within the Project Area that may be affected by the project. The zone of influence for habitat
alteration is therefore, the same as the Project Area. The existing stream crossing has not been identified
as a complete fish passage barrier, so improved passage conditions resulting from the project are not
anticipated to result in introduction of new fish species above the project site.
3.3. Fish Exclusion, Removal and Dewatering
Fish exclusion and removal, followed by dewatering a portion of the creek is proposed prior to culvert
removal and in-channel work. A temporary stream bypass system that likely will utilize temporary coffer
dams, pump systems, and flexible hose, will be used to dewater the area (see Appendix B, Sheet 8). Fish
removal will be completed within the isolated areas and then the work area will be dewatered. Fish removal
activities will follow current WDFW or USFWS standards of practice to reduce effects on fish encountered
within the work area as a result of capture and handling. The zone of influence for fish removal and
dewatering is contained within the stream channel and culverted portion of the Project Area, which includes
a 120-foot section of existing and newly created channel habitat associated with Johns Creek.
3.4. Water Quality
Potential impacts to water quality include spilling hazardous materials, releasing petroleum-based products
associated with construction equipment, and sediment dispersal downstream. However, impacts to water
quality will be controlled utilizing standard BMPs for dewatering, temporary erosion control and spill
prevention and cleanup. Consequently, no impacts to water quality are anticipated beyond the project site.
Work will be performed during the in-water work window, which occurs during the driest part of the year in
summer, when water levels within the stream should be at their lowest and precipitation is less likely to
occur. The zone of influence for water quality impacts is the same defined as aquatic portions of the Project
March 3, 2016| Page 7 File No. 21854-001-00
Area, which includes a 120-foot section of existing and newly created channel habitat associated with Johns
Creek.
4.0 SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITAT
Species listed under the ESA fall under the jurisdiction of one of two federal agencies: USFWS for terrestrial
and freshwater species and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries for marine
species. Information on species listed under the ESA, and potentially present in the Project Area, was
obtained from the USFWS (USFWS, 2016), the NOAA Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) listing for Western
Washington (NOAA Fisheries, 2015), the WDFW priority habitat and species (PHS) maps (WDFW, 2016a),
the WDFW SalmonScape application (WDFW, 2016b) and Washington State Department of Natural
Resources (WDNR). Official species lists from USFWS and NOAA Fisheries are included in Appendix C.
The USFWS provides a project-specific list of species and critical habitat that may occur in the Action Area
(USFWS, 2016). NOAA Fisheries identifies species and critical habitat potentially present anywhere in Puget
Sound (NOAA Fisheries, 2015). Not all species in these lists will necessarily be expected to occur within the
Action Area. WDFW PHS and SalmonScape datasets provide additional information regarding the presence
of listed species within the Action Area. According to WDFW data, there are no fish present within Johns
Creek (WDFW, 2016a and 2016b); however, personal communication with Larry Fisher (WDFW Area
Habitat Biologist) indicates that sockeye salmon and coho salmon, which are not ESA-listed species in the
Lake Washington system, have been observed in the lower reaches of Johns Creek (Fisher, 2015). Lake
Washington is the closest waterbody to the project site that is mapped as containing listed fish species
(including Chinook salmon, bull trout and steelhead). Lake Washington is approximately 1,000 feet
northwest of the Project Area; the Action Area extends over a portion of Lake Washington but does not
permeate into aquatic habitats below the water surface associated with the lake. There are no ESA-listed
terrestrial species identified by WDFW or USFWS within the Action Area (WDFW, 2016a; USFWS, 2016).
The WDNR database does not include any sensitive plant records in the vicinity of the project (WDNR,
2015).
The species identified below are included on the lists obtained from USFWS and NOAA Fisheries (Appendix
C). However, these species are not expected to be impacted based on available mapped information and
lack of suitable habitat; the project is therefore, anticipated to have no effect on these species.
■ Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus). Bull trout are present in Lake Washington but will not be impacted
because there will be no project effects to aquatic habitat associated with Lake Washington. There
have been no documented observations within Johns Creek and the project area lacks suitable habitat
for this species. There is no designated or proposed critical habitat for this species within the Action
Area.
■ Puget Sound Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). Puget Sound Chinook salmon are
present in Lake Washington but will not be impacted by the proposed project. There will be no project
effects to aquatic habitat associated with Lake Washington. There have been no documented
observations within Johns Creek and the project area lacks suitable habitat for this species. There is
no designated or proposed critical habitat for this species within the Action Area.
■ Puget Sound steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Puget Sound steelhead are present in Lake
Washington but will not be impacted by the proposed project. There will be no project effects to aquatic
March 3, 2016| Page 8 File No. 21854-001-00
habitat associated with Lake Washington. There have been no documented observations of steelhead
within Johns Creek and the project area lacks suitable habitat for this species. There is no designated
or proposed critical habitat for this species within the Action Area.
■ Marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus). Marbled murrelet foraging habitat occurs in marine
waters and nesting occurs in old growth and mature forested habitats. There are no marine waters or
forested nesting habitat suitable for marbled murrelet within or adjacent to the Project Area. Marbled
murrelets are therefore, not expected to occur within the Action Area.
■ Streaked horned lark (Eremophila alpestris strigata). This species typically utilizes open spaces
dominated by grasses and other herbaceous vegetation, such as native prairies, coastal dunes,
agricultural fields and other grass fields such as those found around airports (USFWS, 2014).
The Project Area is located within a developed land setting. Remaining populations of this species are
concentrated in the Willamette Valley in Oregon (USFWS, 2014). Furthermore, there have been no
recent sightings of streaked horned larks within the Project or Action Areas (WDFW, 2016a) and critical
habitat does not occur near the project (USFWS, 2016). Therefore, streaked horned larks are not
expected to occur within the Action Area.
■ Yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus). Yellow-billed cuckoos are associated with open deciduous
woodlands and deciduous riparian forests that are at least 25 acres in size (NatureServe, 2016). There
is no suitable habitat for yellow-billed cuckoos in the Action Area.
■ Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis). Canada lynx typically occupy mountainous terrain at higher elevations
such as that occurring at the Cascade Crest in eastern King County. There is no suitable habitat for
Canada lynx in the Action Area.
■ Golden paintbrush (Castilleja levisecta). The project site and adjacent vicinity are well developed and
heavily impacted by human activities. Golden paintbrush has not been identified within the Project Area
(DNR, 2015). Therefore, golden paintbrush are not expected to occur in the Action Area.
5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE
GeoEngineers biologists visited the site in July and October 2015 to observe baseline site conditions.
Appendix D contains photographs of the work area, taken during the site visits. Information from the site
visits, together with available published information on the Johns Creek watershed, was used to document
environmental baseline conditions in the Action Area. The Action Area includes terrestrial, riparian and
freshwater aquatic habitats. Environmental conditions in these habitats are discussed below.
5.1. Terrestrial Habitat
The upland topography in the Project Area is generally flat with steep slopes along the banks of Johns Creek.
Terrestrial habitat conditions within the project corridor are generally degraded and consist primarily of a
narrow strip of riparian vegetation with high densities of invasive species. Vegetation within the project
stretch of Johns Creek is generally limited to invasive species including reed canarygrass (Phalaris
arundinacea), Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus) and Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius).
A waterfront park containing managed lawns and landscaped areas is located north of the Project Area and
partially within the Action Area.
March 3, 2016| Page 9 File No. 21854-001-00
The Action Area does not contain suitable habitat for listed mammal species due to the high level or urban
development and the lack of forested areas. The Action Area only contains narrow strips of isolated native
and invasive riparian vegetation, as well as developed park and mixed-use areas.
5.2. Freshwater and Riparian Habitats
Johns Creek is located in the Lake Washington Subbasin within Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 8.
The surface waters of the stream discharge to Lake Washington. The daylight portions of the creek within
the Action Area appear to originate from several culverts that discharge to a depression on the east side of
Lake Washington Boulevard. The specific sources of these culverts were not verified, but in general the
watershed is highly developed with residential, transportation and industrial infrastructure, including a
Puget Sound Energy substation immediately adjacent upstream of the project site. From this depression,
the stream flows west across Lake Washington Boulevard, north through a ditch between the road and a
railroad corridor, west through culverts under the rail prism, and then north to the project site where it flows
through as set of three existing culverts that are the subject of the project, and then continues north through
another set of off-site culverts, eventually discharging into Lake Washington approximately 1,000 feet from
the Project Area.
The stream channel at the project site is ditched and is characterized by steep banks, a straightened
channel, and a narrow invasive riparian vegetation buffer. Aquatic vegetation is limited to reed canarygrass.
Stream substrate consists of fine sediments. The stream channel ranges from 8 to 10 feet wide on average
at the OHWM within the Project Area. Habitat features such as large woody debris (LWD) and small pools
are generally absent. Portions of the banks of Johns Creek are lined with riprap.
Johns Creek is not on the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) Water Quality Assessment
map for the 303(d) list (Ecology, 2016). However, Lake Washington is included on the 303(d) list for
bacteria at the mouth of Johns Creek, which is outside the Action Area.
The Action Area extends over aquatic habitat associated with Lake Washington as a result of the potential
for in-air noise generated during construction, but does not penetrate below the water surface into habitat
that could be occupied by fish or other aquatic species. Lake Washington contains ESA-listed populations
of Chinook salmon, steelhead and bull trout, as well as non-ESA-listed populations of coho salmon, sockeye
salmon, kokanee, rainbow trout, and coastal cutthroat trout, as well as other non-salmonid native and
introduced fish species. None of these species occur within the Action Area for the project, which does not
include aquatic habitat in Lake Washington.
6.0 ANALYSIS OF EFFECTS
In this section, we provide analysis of each of the project effects identified in Section 3.0 of this report.
Direct effects are impacts that occur at, or very close to, the time of the project (WSDOT, 2015). Indirect
effects are effects caused by the proposed action later in time but are still reasonably certain to occur
(WSDOT, 2015). Anticipated project effects will be direct; there are no indirect effects resulting from the
project since the project will not result in changes to land use patterns, traffic capacity, stormwater
discharge, fish passage, or any other effects that would be indirectly caused by the action.
Direct effects of the proposed action are discussed in the following sections. Because there are no listed
species expected to occur within the action area, the project will have no effect on listed species.
March 3, 2016| Page 10 File No. 21854-001-00
6.1. Construction-Related Noise
Construction-related noise is considered a direct effect of the project, but will only be temporary. Once
construction is complete, noise in the Action Area will return to pre-project levels. There will be no
underwater noise associated with this project because the project will be conducted in the dry (i.e. the
stream will be dewatered within the work area). Consequently, there will be no impacts to listed aquatic
species (fish).
6.2. Habitat Alteration
The project includes alterations to in-stream and riparian habitats. Because the project involves removal of
pipe culverts, replacement with a bridge, and re-establishment of open channel where the culverts were
formerly located, effects of habitat alteration are primarily beneficial.
Clearing, grading, and other construction activities will result in removal of invasive vegetation and some
landscaped areas on the stream embankments. There are no native trees that will be affected by
construction. Disturbed areas within the riparian buffer will be re-planted with native species once
construction activities have been completed. Wildlife species may temporarily be displaced during
construction. Re-planting disturbed areas within the riparian buffer with native plant species is anticipated
to result in a beneficial effect on terrestrial riparian and aquatic species.
Permanent habitat alterations within the aquatic environment include creation of new stream channel
where the culverts will be removed, some grading within adjacent sections of existing channel, and
installing scour protection rocks and streambed material. The existing culverts that will be removed are
approximately 60 feet in length, which represents the amount of channel that will be newly created by the
project. The proposed bridge crossing is approximately 65 feet in length along the stream and partially
overlaps the area where the culverts will be removed.
Because the project will replace undersized pipe culverts with a bridge and open channel stream, alteration
of stream conditions is primarily beneficial. Fish passage will be enhanced due to removal of the existing
constricted culverts, which improves fish passage over a range of flows. There will also be some grading in
existing sections of the stream channel, which will be restored with appropriate habitat substrate to improve
habitat conditions. Replacing the culverts with a bridge will not only improve fish passage but will also allow
for more natural hydraulic and sediment processes as the water volumes and sediment loads vary across
seasons and years.
6.3. Fish Exclusion, Removal and Dewatering
Fish exclusion, removal and subsequent stream dewatering will be required within Johns Creek for work
within the OHWM. These processes have the potential to injure or harm individual fish that are captured
during fish removal or that are stranded during dewatering. Specific efforts will be made to minimize
impacts to fish during removal and dewatering. Fish recovered from the work area will include herding fish
in Johns Creek outside of the work area, but listed fish species are not expected to be within the Creek.
In-water work, including fish removal, will be restricted to the approved work window for fish protection.
Once all in channel work is completed, the bypass and dewatering system will be removed, flow will be
returned to the affected and newly created stream channel, and fish exclusion nets will be removed.
March 3, 2016| Page 11 File No. 21854-001-00
6.4. Degradation of Water Quality
Although there is a slight chance for release of deleterious materials from equipment, BMPs will be
implemented to prevent the release of fuel or oils to the surface, subsurface or water bodies. There is also
potential for temporary water quality impacts resulting from fine sediments traveling downstream once the
dewatering or bypass system is removed and water flows through the newly created stream channel.
Sediments are not expected to travel out of the Action Area when the stream is introduced back through
the channel. Any potential impacts are expected to be temporary and minor and will be controlled through
proper implementations of the TESC Plan.
7.0 EFFECT DETERMINATIONS
The project will have no effect on ESA-listed species or designated critical habitats. As described in Section
4.0, there are no ESA-listed species or critical habitats anticipated to be present within the project Action
Area. There are no ESA-listed species or habitats within Johns Creek; ESA-listed aquatic species (fish) and
associated habitats are present within Lake Washington. However, the only project effect impacting Lake
Washington is in-air noise resulting from pile driving; this effect does not penetrate below the water surface
and the Action Area therefore, does not include aquatic habitat in Lake Washington. There will be no
in-water noise as a result of the project, and potential water quality and habitat impacts are restricted to
Johns Creek. Therefore, no impacts to ESA-listed species or habitats are anticipated. Additionally, the
project is not anticipated to affect prey species for ESA-listed species.
8.0 CONCLUSIONS
This BE was prepared to assess the anticipated impacts of the proposed bridge project on ESA-listed
species and critical habitat. Three existing 60-inch pipe culverts under the access road to the Southport
Development in Renton, Washington, will be replaced with a bridge. The existing culverts convey Johns
Creek under an access road approximately 60 linear feet (LF). The new bridge is being installed to allow for
the access road to be widened as well as improve hydraulic and habitat conditions at the crossing. Although
the existing culverts are not mapped as a fish barrier, the new bridge will improve fish passage conditions
across a range of flows and allow more natural hydraulic and sediment processes to occur. The proposed
single-span concrete bridge will be supported on poured concrete abutments located outside the OHWM.
Proposed bridge dimensions are approximately 65 feet in length with a 35-foot span. Construction is
planned for summer 2016 and will require approximately 3 months to complete.
Construction activities will result in temporary noise impacts, temporary and permanent habitat alteration,
and potential temporary impacts to water quality. Fish exclusion and dewatering will also be required during
construction. The Action Area for the project is defined as the sum of extents of all project effects on the
environment and extends approximately 3,200 feet in all directions from the project site above land and/or
water surfaces, as well as below water surfaces within the affected section of Johns Creek. The Action Area
includes a 120-foot length of open and culverted stream channel as well as terrestrial areas developed
with a public park, railroad tracks, roads and other urban development.
ESA-listed species or critical habitats will not be impacted as a result of the project. Overall, the project is
anticipated to have beneficial impacts on environmental conditions as a result of culvert removal and
daylighting the stream channel, as well as associated channel and riparian enhancement. Therefore, the
March 3, 2016| Page 12 File No. 21854-001-00
project will have no effect on listed species or habitats. It is our understanding that this “No Effects” letter
satisfies the project proponent’s responsibilities under Section 7(c) of the ESA.
9.0 LIMITATIONS
GeoEngineers has developed this BE on behalf of our client, Southport LLC, in general accordance with the
scope and limitations of our proposal. Within the limitations of scope, schedule and budget, our services
have been executed in accordance with the generally accepted practices for Biological Evaluations in this
area at the time this report was prepared. No warranty or other conditions, express or implied, should be
understood.
This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of Southport LLC, their authorized agents, and
regulatory agencies following the described methods and information available at the time of our services.
No other party may rely on the product of our services unless we agree in advance to such reliance in
writing. The information contained herein should not be applied for any purpose or project except the one
originally contemplated. This BE has been prepared with preliminary designs and may need to be revised if
there are significant changes to the finalized design plans.
10.0 REFERENCES
Code of Federal Regulations. 2005. Title 50: Wildlife and Fisheries. Section 402.02 – Definitions.
Washington State Department of Ecology. 2016. Water Quality Assessment for Washington (WQA).
Available at: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/Wq/303d/index.html
Fisher, Larry. 2015. Personal Communication. Email from Larry Fisher (Washington State Department of
Fish and Wildlife) to David Conlin (GeoEngineers, Inc.) on December 21, 2015.
NatureServe. 2016. Available at: http://www.natureserve.org/.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – Fisheries Division. 2015. Species Lists. Available at:
http://www.westcoast.fisheries.noaa.gov/protected_species/species_list/.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2016. Official Species List. Consultation Code
01EWFW00-2016-SLI-0317.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 2014. Species Fact Sheet: Streaked Horned Lark (Eremophila
alpestris strigata). Washington Fish and Wildlife Office. Available at:
http://www.fws.gov/wafwo/species/Fact%20sheets/streakedhornedlarkfinal.pdf.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). 2016a. Priority Habitat and Species Data Mapper.
Available at: http://wdfw.wa.gov/mapping/phs/.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). 2016b. SalmonScape Application, Version 4.0.
Available at: http://wdfw.wa.gov/mapping/salmonscape/.
March 3, 2016| Page 13 File No. 21854-001-00
Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 2015. Sections that Contain Natural Heritage
Features Associated with Wetlands. Data Current as of July 24, 2015. Available at:
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf.
Washington State Department of Transportation. 2015. Advanced Training Manual: Biological Assessment
Preparation for Transportation Projects. Version 2015. Available at:
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Environment/Biology/BA/BAguidance.htm, revised February 2015.
Washington Department of Transportation. 2016. Standard Specifications for Road, Bridge,
and Municipal Construction 2016. M 41-10. Available at:
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/publications/manuals/fulltext/M41-10/SS2016.pdf
µ
SITE
Vicinity Map
Figure 1
Johns Creek Bridge Project
Renton, Washington
2,000 2,0000
Feet
Data Source: Mapbox Open Street Map, 2015
Notes:
1. The locations of all features shown are approximate.2. This drawing is for information purposes. It is intended to assist in showing features discussed in an attached document. GeoEngineers, Inc. cannot guarantee the accuracy and content of electronic files. The master file is stored by GeoEngineers, Inc. and will serve as the official record of this communication.
Projection: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 10N
P:\21\21854001\GIS\MXDs\2185400100_F01_VicinityMap.mxd Date Exported: 01/08/16 by cchelf
Project and Action Areas
Johns Creek Bridge Project
Renton, Washington
Figure 2
µLegend
Project Area
Action Area (3200 feet)
Ordinary High Water Mark
Streams (King County)
Notes:
1. The locations of all features shown are approximate.2. This drawing is for information purposes. It is intended to assist in showing features discussed in an attacheddocument. GeoEngineers, Inc. cannot guarantee the accuracy and content of electronic files. The master fileis stored by GeoEngineers, Inc. and will serve as the official record of this communication.
Projection: NAD 1983 StatePlane Washington North FIPS 4601 Feet
P:\21\21854001\GIS\MXDs\2185400100_F02_SitePlan.mxd Date Exported: 02/18/16 by cchelf
Data Source: Aerials from ESRI, Streams from King County August 2015.
Lake Washington
SouthportDevelopmentProject Area
Joh
n
s
C
r
e
e
k
NE 12TH ST
BRONSONPL NEI-405
FRWYSUNSETBLVD NENE 16TH ST
NE 9TH ST
WINDSOR WAY NENE 6
T
H
CIRABERDEEN PL NENE 22ND STKENNEWICKPL NENE 21ST ST
N 8TH ST
NE 6TH PL
NE 17TH PL
NE 7TH ST
BLAINECT NE
NE 8TH PL
NE PARK D
R
NE 18TH ST
NE 17TH ST
NE 14TH ST
DAYTONAVE NENE 13TH PL
NE 18TH PL
NE 20TH ST
NE 15TH ST
NE 23RD ST
MEADOWAVE NGARDEN AVE NN 5TH ST
N 6TH ST
SUNSET BLVD NNE 17TH CT
NE 6TH
C
T
NE 19TH PL
NE 9TH PL
FA
C
T
O
R
Y
P
L
N BRONSONWAY NELINCOLNPL NEN 4TH ST
NE 8TH STKENNEWICKAVE NEMONTEREYCT NEBLAINE AVE NEMONTEREY AVE NEHIGH AVE NEABERDEEN AVE NENE 4TH STN PARK DRLOGAN AVE NLINCOLN AVE NEPARK AVE NPELLY AVE NWELLS AVE NWILLIAMS AVE NBURNETT AVE NN 20TH ST
C
A
M
A
S
A
V
E
N
E
WIND
SOR
P
L
NE
LAKE
WASH
INGTON
BLVD
N
NE 10TH ST
NE 1
0
T
H
P
LJONES AVE NEHOUSER WAY
NGRANDEY WAY NEN R
IVERS
IDE
DRJohns CreekHLAKE WASHINGTON BLVD NHOUSER WAY
N
Project Area
700 0 700
Feet
200 0 200
Feet
APPENDIX A Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Evaluation
March 3, 2016| Page A-1 File No. 21854-001-00
APPENDIX A
ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT (EFH) EVALUATION
The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation Management Act (MSA), as amended by the Sustainable
Fisheries Act of 1996, established procedures designed to identify, conserve, and enhance EFH for those
species regulated under a Federal Fisheries Management Plan (FMP). EFH is defined by the MSA as “those
waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity.” For the
Pacific West Coast there are three FMPs covering: 1) groundfish; 2) coastal pelagic species; and 3) Pacific
salmon.
The objective of this EFH evaluation is to describe potential adverse impacts to designated EFH for federally
managed fish species within the proposed Action Area. It also describes conservation measures proposed
to avoid, minimize or otherwise offset potential adverse impacts to designated EFH resulting from the
proposed action.
Coastal pelagic and groundfish do not occur within or near the Project Area. The Pacific salmon fishery
management unit includes Chinook salmon, coho salmon (O. kisutch), and pink salmon (O. gorbuscha).
Designated EFH for Pacific salmon includes all streams, lakes, ponds, wetlands, and other water bodies
currently or historically accessible to salmon in Washington State, except above impassable barriers.
Estuarine and marine areas extend from the nearshore and tidal submerged environments within
Washington territorial waters out to the full extent of the exclusive economic zone offshore (Pacific Fishery
Management Council, 1978). Therefore, Johns Creek is designated EFH for Pacific salmon. This
assessment focuses on potential project impacts to this species, which is covered by the Pacific salmon
FMPs.
Proposed Action
For more details concerning the proposed actions for the project, please refer to the project description
section of the BE.
Potential Effects of Proposed Action on EFH
As described above and in the main body of the BE, the project site includes stream environments, which
could support adult or juvenile salmon. Habitat alterations will occur as a result of removing the existing
culverts and roadbed and replacing them with a new bridge and roadbed. These actions will include limited
riparian vegetation removal, stream channel adjustments and stream bank grading. These habitat
alterations will occur within potential salmon habitat; however, impacts to habitat will be beneficial or
temporary in nature. After project construction is complete, riparian areas cleared of vegetation will be
re-planted with native vegetation.
Although the existing culverts are not mapped as a fish passage barrier, fish habitat will be improved
because the bridge will allow for increased passage of fish, flows and sediment, resulting in a condition
that more closely resembles a natural stream channel. The net result to fish habitat is that the EFH at the
project site will be improved, not degraded. Therefore, an effect determination of will not adversely affect
applies to EFH for Pacific salmon.
March 3, 2016| Page A-2 File No. 21854-001-00
EFH Conservation Measures
A number of measures will be implemented to minimize the potential adverse effects to fish habitat in
general. These measures are listed below.
■ The contractor will develop and implement a TESC Plan. The contractor will use the BMPs to control
sediments from all vegetation removal or ground disturbing activities.
■ The contractor shall prepare a SPCC Plan prior to beginning construction. The SPCC Plan shall identify
the appropriate spill containment materials, which will be available at the project site at all times.
■ All equipment used for construction activities will be cleaned and inspected prior to arriving at the
project site to ensure no potentially hazardous materials are exposed, no leaks are present, and the
equipment is functioning properly.
■ Construction equipment used for project activities will be operated from existing approach roads and
structures above the OHWM. Construction equipment will not enter below OHWM.
■ All in-channel work will be performed according to the requirements and conditions of the HPA to be
issued by the WDFW.
See Section 2.5 of the BE for additional information regarding conservation measures.
CONCLUSION
The proposed action will not adversely affect EFH for Pacific salmon occurring at or near the project site. If
more detailed information is desired concerning the determination of effect of all listed species occurring
within the Action Area, please refer to Sections 6.0 and 7.0 in the main text of the BE.
REFERENCE
Pacific Fishery Management Council. 1978. Fishery Management Plan for Commercial and Recreational
Salmon Fisheries off the Coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California Commencing in 1978.
March 1978.
APPENDIX B Project Design Plans
CULVERT REPLACEMENTJOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON
2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD
3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATIONBY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° NLONGITUDE: -122.200656° W
P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:Vicinity Map modified on Feb 25, 2016 - 4:44pmVICINITY MAP
1
SITE LOCATION
SITE LOCATION
Feet
0 1500 3000
1 VICINITY MAP
2
EXISTING CONDITIONS PARCEL AND
EASEMENT PLAN
3
EXISTING CHANNEL CONDITIONS
PLAN
4
PROPOSED CONDITIONS GEOMETRY
PLAN
5
PROPOSED CONDITIONS CHANNEL
PLAN
6 PLANTING PLAN
7 PLANTING NOTES AND QUANTITIES
8
EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL
PLAN
9
LONGITUDINAL PROFILE SECTION
A-A'
10 CROSS SECTION B-B'
SHEET TITLE
CULVERT REPLACEMENTJOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON
2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD
3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATIONBY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° NLONGITUDE: -122.200656° W
P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:Existing Parcel Plan modified on Feb 25, 2016 - 4:44pmJOHNS CREEKSOUT
H
P
O
R
T
E
N
T
R
A
N
C
E
R
O
A
D
EXISTING CONDITIONS PARCEL AND
EASEMENT PLAN
2
HORIZONTAL SCALE 1'=40'
EXISTING ROADWAY
PARCEL NO. 334450-0775
CITY OF RENTON
PARCEL NO. 082305-9055
BUILDING C AT SOUTHPORT LLC
PARCEL NO. 082305-9191
PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PROPERTY LINE
PROPERTY L
I
N
E
PROPERTY LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT L
INE EASEMENT L
INE
EASE
M
E
N
T
L
I
N
E
PUBLIC SIDEWALK ANDUTILITY EASEMENT
PUBLIC SIDEWALKAND UTILITY EASEMENT
PRIVATE EASEMENT
FOR PUBLIC STREET
PRIVATE EASEMENT
FOR PUBLIC STREET
PUBLIC SIDEWALK,
UTILITY AND LANDSCAPEEASEMENT
PARCEL NO. 082305-9027
BURLINGTON NORTHERNRAILROAD
Feet
0 40 80
CULVERT REPLACEMENTJOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON
2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD
3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATIONBY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° NLONGITUDE: -122.200656° W
P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:Existing Field Plan modified on Feb 25, 2016 - 4:44pmJOHNS CREEKCOULON BEACHPARK DRIVESOUT
H
P
O
R
T
E
N
T
R
A
N
C
E
R
O
A
D
Feet
0 40 80
EXISTING 60" DIACULVERTS (3)TO BE REMOVED
EXISTING CHANNEL CONDITIONS
PLAN
3
HORIZONTAL SCALE 1'=40'
EXISTING TOPOF BANK
EXISTINGTOP OF BANK
EXISTING ORDINARY
HIGH WATER
(OHW)
BURLINGTON
NORTHERNRAILROAD
EXISTING ROADWAY
EXISTING ORDINARYHIGH WATER
(OHW)
PARCEL NO. 334450-0775
CITY OF RENTON
PARCEL NO. 082305-9055BUILDING C AT SOUTHPORT LLC
PARCEL NO. 082305-9191PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PROPERTY LINE
PROPERTY L
I
N
E
PROPERTY LINEEXISTING CULVERTS
TO REMAIN
EXISTING CULVERTSTO REMAIN
22.0 FT OHW
10.4 FT OHW
EXISTING AREAWITHIN PROJECT
REACH = 2,818 SF
PARCEL NO. 082305-9027
BURLINGTON NORTHERNRAILROAD
APPROXIMATELIMITS OF
DISTURBANCE
(IN-WATER)
CULVERT REPLACEMENTJOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON
2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD
3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATIONBY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° NLONGITUDE: -122.200656° W
P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:Proposed Plan Geometry modified on Feb 25, 2016 - 4:44pmJOHNS CREEKCOULON BEACHPARK DRIVESOUTHPO
R
T
E
N
T
R
A
N
C
E
R
O
A
D
Feet
0 40 80
PROPOSED
BRIDGELOCATION PROPOSED ROADWAY
MODIFICATIONS
PROPOSED CONDITIONS GEOMETRY
PLAN
4
EXISTING ORDINARY
HIGH WATER
(OHW)
HORIZONTAL SCALE 1'=40'
EXISTINGTOP OF BANK
EXISTING ORDINARY
HIGH WATER
(OHW)
PROPOSED ORDINARY
HIGH WATER (OHW)
PROPOSED TOP
OF BANK
PARCEL NO. 334450-0775
CITY OF RENTON
PARCEL NO. 082305-9055
BUILDING C AT SOUTHPORT LLC
PARCEL NO. 082305-9191PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PROPERTY LINE
PROPERTY LINEPROPERTY L
I
N
E
AREA OF EXCAVATION
WITHIN OHW
PROPOSED AREA OF OHW = 3,580 SF
EXCAVATE AND BACKFILL WITH
IMPORTED MATERIAL WITHIN
EXISTING OHW
EASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT L
INE EASEMENT L
INE
EXISTINGTOP OF BANK
PARCEL NO. 082305-9027BURLINGTON NORTHERN
RAILROAD
APPROXIMATELIMITS OF
DISTURBANCE
(IN-WATER)
CULVERT REPLACEMENTJOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON
2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD
3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATIONBY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° NLONGITUDE: -122.200656° W
P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:Proposed Channel Plan modified on Feb 25, 2016 - 4:44pmJOHNS CREEKCOULON BEACHPARK DRIVESOUTHPO
R
T
E
N
T
R
A
N
C
E
R
O
A
D
Feet
0 40 80
PROPOSED
BRIDGELOCATION PROPOSED ROADWAY
MODIFICATIONS
PROPOSED CONDITIONS CHANNEL
PLAN
5
EXISTING ORDINARY
HIGH WATER
(OHW)
HORIZONTAL SCALE 1'=40'
EXISTINGTOP OF BANK
EXISTING ORDINARY
HIGH WATER
(OHW)
PROPOSED ORDINARY
HIGH WATER (OHW)
PROPOSED TOP
OF BANK
PARCEL NO. 334450-0775
CITY OF RENTON
PARCEL NO. 082305-9055
BUILDING C AT SOUTHPORT LLC
PARCEL NO. 082305-9191PUGET SOUND ENERGY A'AB'
B
PARCEL NO. 082305-9027BURLINGTON NORTHERN
RAILROAD
PROPERTY LINE
PROPERTY LINEPROPERTY L
I
N
E
RIPRAP
ARMORINGEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT L
INE EASEMENT L
INE
HABITAT BOULDERS
(TYP)
EXISTING
TOP OF BANK
APPROXIMATELIMITS OF
DISTURBANCE
(IN-WATER)
CULVERT REPLACEMENTJOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON
2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD
3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATIONBY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° NLONGITUDE: -122.200656° W
P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:Planting Plan modified on Feb 25, 2016 - 4:44pmJOHNS CREEKCOULON BEACHPARK DRIVESOUTHPO
R
T
E
N
T
R
A
N
C
E
R
O
A
D
Feet
0 40 80
PROPOSED
BRIDGE
LOCATION PROPOSED ROADWAY
MODIFICATIONS
PLANTING PLAN
6
EXISTING ORDINARY
HIGH WATER
HORIZONTAL SCALE 1'=40'
EXISTINGTOP OF BANK
EXISTING ORDINARYHIGH WATER
(OHW)
PROPOSED ORDINARY
HIGH WATER (OHW)
RIPARIANBANK
PLANTING
PARCEL NO. 334450-0775CITY OF RENTON
PARCEL NO. 082305-9055
BUILDING C AT SOUTHPORT LLC
PARCEL NO. 082305-9191PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PARCEL NO. 082305-9027BURLINGTON NORTHERN
RAILROAD
PROPERTY LINE
PROPERTY LINEPROPERTY L
I
N
E
RIPARIAN BANK PLANTINGAREA = 1,750 SF
RIPARIAN UPLAND PLANTINGAREA = 3,650 SF
RIPARIAN BANK PLANTING
EASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT L
INE EASEMENT L
INE
RIPARIAN UPLAND PLANTING RIPARIAN UPLAND
PLANTING
EXISTINGTOP OF BANK
PROPOSEDTOP OF BANK
RIPARIAN BANK
PLANTING
RIPARIAN UPLAND PLANTING
PLANTING PALLETTE
Common Name Latin Name Form Avg. Spacing(ft.)Riparian Bank(QTY)Riparian Upland(QTY)
Shrubs 1750 (SF) 3650 (SF)
Hooker Willow Salix hookeriana Live stakes 3 85 --
Pacific Willow Salix lucida var. lasiandra Live stakes 3 85 --
Pacific Ninebark Physocarpus capitatus Container-grown 6 --15
Salmonberry Rubus spectabilis Container-grown 6 55 25
Vine Maple Acer circinatum Container-grown 6 --25
Indian Plum Oemleria cerasiformis Container-grown 6 --15
Ground Cover
Sword Fern Polystichum munitum Container-grown 6 --20
Low Oregon
Grape Mahonia nervosa Container-grown 6 --20
CULVERT REPLACEMENTJOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON
2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD
3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATIONBY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° NLONGITUDE: -122.200656° W
P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:Planting Table modified on Feb 25, 2016 - 4:44pm7
PLANTING NOTES AND QUANTITIES
FOOTNOTES:1. CONTAINER-GROWN PLANT MATERIAL STOCK SHOULD BE AT LEAST 2-GALLON SIZE FOR TREES AND AT LEAST
1-GALLON SIZE FOR SHRUBS AND GROUND-COVER SPECIES; WILLOW LIVE STAKES SHOULD BE 36 TO 48 INCHES INLENGTH.2. BARE ROOT PLANT MATERIAL STOCK CAN BE SUBSTITUTED FOR CONTAINER-GROWN STOCK, BUT INCREASED
MORTALITY AND SUBSEQUENT PLANT REPLACEMENT COSTS SHOULD BE ANTICIPATED AND CONSIDERED.
1,2
APPROXIMATE LIMITS
OF DISTURBANCE
(IN-WATER)
X X
CULVERT REPLACEMENT
JOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD
3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATION
BY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8
TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° N
LONGITUDE: -122.200656° W:P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:EROSION CONTROL PLAN modified on Mar 08, 2016 - 10:43amRSCRSCFeet
0 40 80
PROPOSED
BRIDGE
LOCATION
PROPOSED ROADWAY
MODIFICATIONS
EXISTING ORDINARY
HIGH WATER
EXISTING
TOP OF BANK
EXISTING ORDINARYHIGH WATER
(OHW)
PROPOSED ORDINARY
HIGH WATER
AREA OFEXCAVATION
TEMPORARY DAM AND
PUMP CHANNEL
DIVERSION
STRAWBALEDISCHARGE STRUCTURE
CHANNEL DIVERSION
PIPE
SILT FENCE (SEEPLANS BY CPL INC.)TEMPORARY SHEET PILE
SHORING (BY OTHERS)
SILT FENCE (SEE
PLANS BY CPL INC.)
SEDIMENT REMOVAL
SYSTEM (SEE PLANS
BY CPL INC.)
SEDIMENT TRAP
WITH PUMP (SEE
PLANS BY CPL INC.)
SEDIMENT TRAP
WITH PUMP (SEEPLANS BY CPL INC.)
TEMPORARY INLET WITH 8"TEMPORARY STORM LINE TO
CREEK. (SEE PLANS BY CPL INC.)XXXXXXXJOHNS CREEKCOULON BEACHPARK DRIVESOUTH
P
O
R
T
ENTRA
N
C
E
R
O
A
D
EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL
PLAN
8
HORIZONTAL SCALE 1'=40'
PARCEL NO. 334450-0775
CITY OF RENTON
PARCEL NO. 082305-9055
BUILDING C AT SOUTHPORT LLC
PARCEL NO. 082305-9191
PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PARCEL NO. 082305-9027BURLINGTON NORTHERN
RAILROAD
PROPERTY LINE
PROPERTY LINEPROPERTY L
I
N
EEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT LINEEASEMENT L
INE EASEMENT L
INE
LEGEND
Note: Erosion and Sediment Control Best
Management Practices shown are based inpart on design plans prepared by CPL, Inc.
SHEET PILE SHORING
FILTER FABRIC FENCING
DIVERSION BERM
DATE: MARCH 8, 2016
SILT FENCE
15
20
25
30
CULVERT REPLACEMENTJOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON
2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD
3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATIONBY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° NLONGITUDE: -122.200656° W
P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:Profile A-A modified on Feb 25, 2016 - 4:44pmEXISTING CULVERTS
TO BE REMOVED
EXISTING GROUND(SOUTHPORT ROAD)
PROPOSEDSOUTHPORT BRIDGE
HORIZONTAL SCALE: 1"=40'VERTICAL SCALE: 1"=10'
VERTICAL EXAGERATION: 4X
9
PROPOSED CHANNEL
GRADE
Feet
0 40 80
LONGITUDINAL PROFILE
SECTION A-A'DOWNSTREAM LIMITSOF DISTURBANCEMATCH EXISTING GRADEELEV = 18.96UPSTREAM LIMITSOF DISTURBANCEMATCH EXISTING GRADEELEV=19.03EXISTING CHANNELGRADE
10.00
20.00
30.00
0+00.00
20
30
35
CULVERT REPLACEMENTJOHNS CREEK
ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS:
1. CITY OF RENTON
2. BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD3. PUGET SOUND ENERGY
PURPOSE:CITY OF:
COUNTY OF:
STATE OF:
APPLICATIONBY:
SHEET: OF 10 DATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2016
CREATED BY: GEOENGINEERS, INC.
RENTON
KING COUNTY
WASHINGTON
SOUTHPORT LLCDATUM: NAD83 - FT., NAVD88 - FT.SECTION: 8TOWNSHIP: 23 NRANGE: 05 E
LATITUDE: 47.502875° NLONGITUDE: -122.200656° W
P:\21\21854001\00\CAD\DWG\JARPA_DRAWING.dwg\TAB:Section B-B modified on Feb 25, 2016 - 4:48pmPROPOSED PAVEMENTSURFACE (BY OTHERS)
EXISTING GROUND
(SOUTHPORT ROAD)
PROPOSED BRIDGE
(BY OTHERS)
HORIZONTAL SCALE: 1"=10'VERTICAL SCALE: 1"=10'
VERTICAL EXAGERATION: 1X
10
Feet
0 10 20
CROSS SECTION B-B'
TEMPORARY SHORING REMOVE EXISTING CULVERTS (3)
APPROX. OHW =12'
8'
3 1
RIPRAP ARMORING
PROPOSED EXCAVATION
EXCAVATION LIMITS
11
HABITAT BOULDERS
BRIDGE FOOTING
WINGWALL
FOOTING
RETAINING WALL
APPENDIX C Species Lists from NMFS and USFWS
Status of ESA Listings & Critical Habitat Designations
for West Coast Salmon & Steelhead
PUGET SOUND DOMAIN • Puget Sound Chinook (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Hood Canal Summer Chum (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Ozette Lake Sockeye (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Puget Sound Steelhead (T) [CH under dev.; ANPR 1/10/11]
INTERIOR COLUMBIA DOMAIN • Snake River Sockeye (E) [FCH 12/28/93] • Snake River Fall Chinook (T) [FCH 12/28/93] • Snake River Spring/Summer Chinook (T) [FCH 12/28/93; 10/25/99] • Snake River Steelhead (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Upper Columbia River Spring Chinook (E) [FCH 9/2/05] • Upper Columbia River Steelhead (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Middle Columbia River Steelhead (T) [FCH 9/2/05]
OREGON COAST DOMAIN • Oregon Coast Coho (T) [FCH 2/11/08]
SOUTHERN
OREGON/NORTHERN CALIFORNIA COAST DOMAIN
• Southern Oregon/Northern California Coast Coho (T) [FCH 5/5/99]
CENTRAL VALLEY DOMAIN • Sacramento River Winter Chinook (E) [FCH 6/16/93] • Central Valley Spring Chinook (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Central Valley Steelhead (T) [FCH 9/2/05]
NORTH-CENTRAL CALIFORNIA COAST DOMAIN • Central California Coast Coho (E) [FCH 5/5/99] • California Coastal Chinook (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Northern California Steelhead (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Central California Coast Steelhead (T) [FCH 9/2/05]
WILLAMETTE/LOWER COLUMBIA DOMAIN • Columbia River Chum (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Lower Columbia River Coho (T) [CH Under dev.; ANPR 1/10/11] • Lower Columbia River Chinook (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Lower Columbia River Steelhead (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Upper Willamette River Chinook (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Upper Willamette River Steelhead (T) [FCH 9/2/05]
SOUTH-CENTRAL/SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA COAST DOMAIN
• South-Central California Coast Steelhead (T) [FCH 9/2/05] • Southern California Coast Steelhead (E) [FCH 9/2/05]
CRITICAL HABITAT RULES CITED
• 6/16/93 (58 FR 33212) Final CHD for Sacramento River Winter-run Chinook • 12/28/93 (58 FR 68543) Final CHD for Snake River Chinook and Sockeye • 5/5/99 (64 FR 24049) Final CHD for Central CA Coast and SONCC Coho • 10/25/99 (64FR57399) Revised CHD for Snake River Spring/Summer Chinook • 9/2/05 (70 FR 52630) Final CHD for 12 ESUs of Salmon and Steelhead • 2/11/08 (73 FR 7816) Final CHD for Oregon Coast Coho • 1/10/11 (76 FR 1392) Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking; CHDs for Lower Columbia Coho and Puget Sound Steelhead
LEGEND
(E) Endangered (T) Threatened (FCH) Final Critical Habitat Designated
Updated 10-31-12
Domain Overlap
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Washington Fish and Wildlife Office
510 DESMOND DRIVE SE, SUITE 102
LACEY, WA 98503
PHONE: (360)753-9440 FAX: (360)753-9405
URL: www.fws.gov/wafwo/
Consultation Code: 01EWFW00-2016-SLI-0317 January 06, 2016
Event Code: 01EWFW00-2016-E-00229
Project Name: Southport Development Project Lake Washington Boulevard North Road
Improvements
Subject: List of threatened and endangered species that may occur in your proposed project
location, and/or may be affected by your proposed project
To Whom It May Concern:
The enclosed species list identifies threatened, endangered, and proposed species, designated
and proposed critical habitat, and candidate species that may occur within the boundary of your
proposed project and/or may be affected by your proposed project. The species list fulfills the
requirements of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) under section 7(c) of the
Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).
New information based on updated surveys, changes in the abundance and distribution of
species, changed habitat conditions, or other factors could change this list. The species list is
currently compiled at the county level. Additional information is available from the Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife, Priority Habitats and Species website:
or at our office website: http://wdfw.wa.gov/mapping/phs/
. Please note that under 50 CFR 402.12(e) of thehttp://www.fws.gov/wafwo/species_new.html
regulations implementing section 7 of the Act, the accuracy of this species list should be
verified after 90 days. This verification can be completed formally or informally as desired. The
Service recommends that verification be completed by visiting the ECOS-IPaC website at
regular intervals during project planning and implementation for updates to species lists and
information. An updated list may be requested through the ECOS-IPaC system by completing
the same process used to receive the enclosed list.
The purpose of the Act is to provide a means whereby threatened and endangered species and
the ecosystems upon which they depend may be conserved. Under sections 7(a)(1) and 7(a)(2)
of the Act and its implementing regulations (50 CFR 402 et seq.), Federal agencies are required
to utilize their authorities to carry out programs for the conservation of threatened and
endangered species and to determine whether projects may affect threatened and endangered
species and/or designated critical habitat.
A Biological Assessment is required for construction projects (or other undertakings having
similar physical impacts) that are major Federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the
human environment as defined in the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)
(c)). For projects other than major construction activities, the Service suggests that a biological
evaluation similar to a Biological Assessment be prepared to determine whether or not the
project may affect listed or proposed species and/or designated or proposed critical habitat.
Recommended contents of a Biological Assessment are described at 50 CFR 402.12.
If a Federal agency determines, based on the Biological Assessment or biological evaluation,
that listed species and/or designated critical habitat may be affected by the proposed project, the
agency is required to consult with the Service pursuant to 50 CFR 402. In addition, the Service
recommends that candidate species, proposed species, and proposed critical habitat be addressed
within the consultation. More information on the regulations and procedures for section 7
consultation, including the role of permit or license applicants, can be found in the "Endangered
Species Consultation Handbook" at:
http://www.fws.gov/endangered/esa-library/pdf/TOC-GLOS.PDF
Please be aware that bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle
Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668 et seq.). You may visit our website at
information on disturbance or take of the species andhttp://www.fws.gov/pacific/eagle/for
information on how to get a permit and what current guidelines and regulations are. Some
projects affecting these species may require development of an eagle conservation plan: (
). Additionally, wind energy projectshttp://www.fws.gov/windenergy/eagle_guidance.html
should follow the wind energy guidelines () for minimizinghttp://www.fws.gov/windenergy/
impacts to migratory birds and bats.
Also be aware that all marine mammals are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act
(MMPA). The MMPA prohibits, with certain exceptions, the "take" of marine mammals in U.S.
waters and by U.S. citizens on the high seas. The importation of marine mammals and marine
mammal products into the U.S. is also prohibited. More information can be found on the
MMPA website: .http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/laws/mmpa/
We appreciate your concern for threatened and endangered species. The Service encourages
Federal agencies to include conservation of threatened and endangered species into their project
planning to further the purposes of the Act. Please include the Consultation Tracking Number in
the header of this letter with any request for consultation or correspondence about your project
that you submit to our office.
Related website:
National Marine Fisheries Service:
http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/protected_species/species_list/species_lists.html
Attachment
2
http://ecos.fws.gov/ipac, 01/06/2016 08:37 AM
1
Official Species List
Provided by:
Washington Fish and Wildlife Office
510 DESMOND DRIVE SE, SUITE 102
LACEY, WA 98503
(360) 753-9440
http://www.fws.gov/wafwo/
Consultation Code: 01EWFW00-2016-SLI-0317
Event Code: 01EWFW00-2016-E-00229
Project Type: BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION / MAINTENANCE
Project Name: Southport Development Project Lake Washington Boulevard North Road
Improvements
Project Description: To improve traffic flow entering and exiting the Southport development site,
improvements to surrounding roadways and infrastructure will be completed. As part of the
Southport road improvements, the entrance will be widened and an existing set of three 60-inch pipe
culverts will be replaced with a bridge that will span Johns Creek.
Please Note: The FWS office may have modified the Project Name and/or Project Description, so it
may be different from what was submitted in your previous request. If the Consultation Code
matches, the FWS considers this to be the same project. Contact the office in the 'Provided by'
section of your previous Official Species list if you have any questions or concerns.
United States Department of Interior
Fish and Wildlife Service
Project name: Southport Development Project Lake Washington Boulevard North Road
Improvements
http://ecos.fws.gov/ipac, 01/06/2016 08:37 AM
2
Project Location Map:
Project Coordinates: MULTIPOLYGON (((-122.20113050963846 47.50307511918143, -
122.20093642470603 47.50255051543696, -122.20031307959289 47.50266097414467, -
122.20055834062805 47.50316484768524, -122.20113050963846 47.50307511918143)))
Project Counties: King, WA
United States Department of Interior
Fish and Wildlife Service
Project name: Southport Development Project Lake Washington Boulevard North Road
Improvements
http://ecos.fws.gov/ipac, 01/06/2016 08:37 AM
3
Endangered Species Act Species List
There are a total of 6 threatened or endangered species on your species list. Species on this list should be considered in
an effects analysis for your project and could include species that exist in another geographic area. For example, certain
fish may appear on the species list because a project could affect downstream species. Critical habitats listed under the
Has Critical Habitat column may or may not lie within your project area. See the Critical habitats within your
project area section further below for critical habitat that lies within your project. Please contact the designated FWS
office if you have questions.
Birds Status Has Critical Habitat Condition(s)
Marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus
marmoratus)
Population: CA, OR, WA
Threatened Final designated
Streaked Horned lark (Eremophila
alpestris strigata)
Threatened Final designated
Yellow-Billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus
americanus)
Population: Western U.S. DPS
Threatened Proposed
Fishes
Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus)
Population: U.S.A., conterminous, lower 48
states
Threatened Final designated
Flowering Plants
Golden Paintbrush (Castilleja
levisecta)
Threatened
Mammals
Canada Lynx (Lynx canadensis)
Population: Contiguous U.S. DPS
Threatened Final designated
United States Department of Interior
Fish and Wildlife Service
Project name: Southport Development Project Lake Washington Boulevard North Road
Improvements
http://ecos.fws.gov/ipac, 01/06/2016 08:37 AM
4
Critical habitats that lie within your project area
There are no critical habitats within your project area.
United States Department of Interior
Fish and Wildlife Service
Project name: Southport Development Project Lake Washington Boulevard North Road
Improvements
APPENDIX D Site Photographs
Appendix
D-1
Site Photographs
Photograph 1. Access to Southport Development Area in the general vicinity of where the culverts will be
replaced with a bridge over Johns Creek.
Southport Development Project
Renton, Washington
21854-001-00 Date Exported 11/4/15Photograph 2. Johns Creek is located in the center of the Himalayan blackberry. Upland in this area generally
consists of developed and maintained areas or areas dominated by invasive species.
Appendix
D-2
Site Photographs
Photograph 3. Two of the three culverts that will be removed and replaced with a bridge over the creek. These
culverts are located under the Southport access road.
Southport Development Project
Renton, Washington
21854-001-00 Date Exported 11/4/15Photograph 4. Central section of Johns Creek appears to have been ditched. The creek is located in the center of
the Himalayan blackberry and reed canarygrassis within the channel. This portion of the creek is located just
south of the culvert replacement activities.
Appendix
D-3
Site Photographs
Photograph 5. Johns Creek just north of the project area where the culverts will be replaced with a bridge. This
section of the creek had a forested canopy that overhung shrub and herbaceous vegetation.
Southport Development Project
Renton, Washington
21854-001-00 Date Exported 11/4/15
APPENDIX B Stream Mapping Database Printouts
STREAMS AND LAKES
(Amd. Ord. 5355, 2-25-2008; Ord. 5468, 7-13-2009; Ord. 5675, 12-3-2012)
Figure 4-3-050Q5
«k
E
E
E
E
E
E E
E
E
E
E
E
E
EE E200
200
200
S Lake Washington
F
S Cedar River
X FF
I
-405SR-900SR
-
1
69
SR-900
1729202
1729262
1729242
1729220
1729244
17292041729200
1729148
1729260
1729108
1729264
17292241729222
1729240
1729168
1729128
8
17
5
9
7
4
1618
Date: 7/8/2015 Time: 10:04:27 AM
NAD 83
Contour Interval: 40 Feet
Application #: ________________________
FOREST PRACTICE WATER TYPE MAP
TOWNSHIP 23 NORTH HALF 0, RANGE 05 EAST (W.M.) HALF 0, SECTION 8
1,000
Feet
®
SOURCE DATASET:WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFEPRIORITY HABITATS AND SPECIES REPORTREPORT DATE:P151201101611PHSPlusPublic12/01/2015 10.16Query ID:Priority AreaCommon NameAccuracySource EntityOccurrence TypeResolutionNotesSource DateSite NamePHS Listing StatusScientific NameSource DatasetState StatusMgmt RecommendationsMore Information (URL)Sensitive DataFederal StatusGeometry TypeSource RecordNestPointsMonitored1/4 mile (Quarter69900August 19, 2003AS MAPPEDN/ABOEING RENTON CELLWS_OccurPointOspreyNOT A PHS LISTEDWA Dept. of Fish and WildlifeN/ANPandion haliaetusN/ADISCLAIMER. This report includes information that the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) maintains in a central computer database. It is not an attempt to provide you with an official agency responseas to the impacts of your project on fish and wildlife. This information only documents the location of fish and wildlife resources to the best of our knowledge. It is not a complete inventory and it is important to note that fishand wildlife resources may occur in areas not currently known to WDFW biologists, or in areas for which comprehensive surveys have not been conducted. Site specific surveys are frequently necesssary to rule out thepresence of priority resources. Locations of fish and wildlife resources are subject to vraition caused by disturbance, changes in season and weather, and other factors. WDFW does not recommend using reports more thansix months old.12/01/2015 10.161
WDFW Test Map
Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, USGS, Intermap, increment P Corp.,NRCAN, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), Esri (Thailand),
PHS Report Clip Area
PT
LN
AS MAPPED
SECTION
QTR-TWP
TOWNSHIP
December 1, 2015 0 0.3 0.60.15 mi
0 0.55 1.10.275 km
1:19,842