Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
Misc
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I CITY OF RENTON MAY CREEK SHORT-PLAT CRITICAL AREAS REPORT King County, Washington Prepared For: City of Renton 1055 S. Grady Way Renton, WA 98057 Prepared By: DA YID EV ANS AND ASSOCIATES, INC. 415 -I 18th Avenue SE Bellevue, WA 98005-3553 Prepared by: Scott Swarts Sr. Fish and Wildlife Biologist RENT0000-0014 I May JO, 2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. I 2.0 METHODS ........................................................................................................................................ 4 2.1 Preliminary Data Gathering and Review ................................................................................... 4 2.2 Field Investigation .......... , ................................................................. : ........................................ 5 3.0 RESULTS ......................................................................................................................................... 6 3.1 Preliminary Data Gathering and Review ................................................................................... 6 3.1.1 WDFW PHS Data ...................................................................................................... 6 3.1.2 WDNR NHP Data ...................................................................................................... 6 3.1.3 Streams ....................................................................................................................... 7 3.1.4 Wetlands ..................................................................................................................... 9 3.1.5 U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Data ................................................................. 9 3.1.6 Geologic Critical Areas ............................................................................................. 9 3.1.7 Floodplains ................................................................................................................ 9 3.1.8 Shoreline Master Program ....................................................................................... 13 3.1.9 Amphibians and Reptiles .......................................................................................... 13 3.1.10 Mammals .................................................................................................................. 14 3.1.11 Birds ......................................................................................................................... 14 3.1.12 Federally Listed Species ............................................................ , ............................. 16 3.2 Field Investigation ................................................................................................................... 16 3.2.1 Wetlands ................................................................................................................... 25 3.2.2 Streams ............... · ...................................................................................................... 27 3.2.3 Uplands .................................................................................................................... 27 3.2.4 Wildlife ..................................................................................................................... 28 4.0 CONCLUSIONS ............................................................................................................................. 29 5.0 REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................ 30 LIST OF TABLES Table I: Rare Plants of King County ............................................................................................................ 6 Table 2: May Creek 2008 Water Quality Assessment .................................................................................. 8 Table 3: Amphibians and Reptiles .............................................................................................................. 13 Table 4: Mammal Record Summary for T24N ROSE ................................................................................. 14 Table 5: Breeding Bird Summary for T24N ROSE ..................................................................................... 14 Table 6: Wetland Summary ........................................................................................................................ 25 LIST OF FIGURES Figure I: ·Vicinity Map .................................................................................................................................. 2 Figure 2: Aerial Site Map ............................................................................................................................. 3 Figure 3: Aquatic Critical Areas Map ......................................................................................................... 10 Figure 4: Soil Survey -King County Area ................................................................................................. l l Figure 5: Geologic Hazard Areas ................................................................................................................ l 2 Figure 6: Site Photos ................................................................................................................................... 17 APPENDICES Appendix A -Existing Conditions Map Appendix B -USFWS Species List Appendix C -NMFS Species List Appendix D -Wetland A Rating Form and Data Plot Forms Appendix E -Wetland B Rating Form P:v1RENT00000014\0600INFO\EnvironmentaflFinaJ Fawcett Parcel Critics} Areas Report.doc City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report May 10, 2011 BIBI BMPs Corps DEA, DP Ecology EFH ESA FAC FACW FACU FEMA GIS HUC 1-405 LSRA LWD NHP NMFS NOAA NRCS NWI NTU OBL OHWM PEM PFO PHS POW RM RMC RSRA scs SMP TMDL TSS USDA USFWS USGS WDFW WDNR WRIA WSGA ACRONYMS Benthic Invertebrate Index Best Management Practices U.S. Army Corps of Engineers David Evans and Associates, Inc. Data plot Washington State Department of Ecology Essential Fish Habitat Endangered Species Act Facultative Facultative wetland Facultative upland Federal Emergency Management Agency Geographic Information System Hydrologic Unit Code Interstate 405 Locally Significant Resource Area Large woody debris Natural Heritage Program National Marine Fisheries Service National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Natural Resources Conservation Service National Wetlands Inventory Nephelometric turbidity unit Obligate wetland Ordinary High Water Mark Palustrine emergent Palustrine forested Priority habitats and species Palustrine open water River Mile Renton Municipal Code Regionally Significant Resource Area Soil Conservation Service Shoreline Master Program Total maximum daily load Total suspended solids U.S. Department of Agriculture • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service United States Geological Survey Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Washington State Department of Natural Resources Water Resource Inventory Area Washington State Gap Analysis P:W?ENT00000014\0600/NFO\Environmental\Final Fa~tt Parcel Critical Areas Report.doc City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report ii Mayl0,2011 I I' I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 1.0 INTRODUCTION At the request of the City of Renton (City), David Evans and Associates, Inc. (DEA) conducted this investigation to document the presence of critical areas, existing habitat conditions, and level of potential wildlife use in the vicinity of a parcel that may be purchased by the City. This investigation also evaluated priority habitats and species (PHS) as identified by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), and federally listed species under jurisdiction of either the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) that could occur in the project vicinity. The City is in the process of potentially purchasing a parcel identified as the May Creek Property. The "Project" is short-platting the existing parcel so the City can purchase the portion of the parcel (Lot l) that is located on the north side of May Creek, which is undeveloped. The portion of the parcel that would be retained by the existing owner (Mr. Fawcett) is a smaller piece of land on the south side of May Creek adjacent to Interstate 405 (1-405) that currently contains a single-family home (Lot 2). Appendix A contains a survey map that identifies the location of each lot. The parcel is located within the City of Renton, Washington (Section 32, Township 24 north, Range 05 east, W.M.) (Figure 1). The site address is 4008 Meadow Avenue North, Renton, Washington 98065, and is currently identified as Parcel Number 3224059043. This parcel is situated on the west side of 1-405, between 1-405 and Lake Washington Boulevard North. The entire parcel covers approximately 3.56 acres and abuts approximately 925 linear feet of May Creek. The predominance of parcel is undeveloped and situated on the north side of May Creek (3.09 acres), except for a small portion on the south side of May Creek adjacent to 1-405 that contains a single family residence (0.47 acre). The site is in Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 8: Cedar-Sammamish Basin. More specifically, the project site is within the May Creek Watershed, 6th Field Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC) 171100120302, while the approximate latitude and longitude is 47 .52881 by -122.19966. In summary, the site includes May Creek where it is identified as a Shoreline of the State; therefore a large portion of the parcel is regulated under Renton Municipal Code (RMC) 4-3- 090, Shoreline Master Program (SMP) Regulations (Figure 2). Shoreline jurisdiction extends 200 feet landward from the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) or floodway, whichever is greater. The predominance of the site is also defined as "areas of special flood hazard." One small (786 square foot) Category III wetland (Wetland A) was documented on Lot I, and another Category III wetland was observed near the northwest comer of the site along Lake Washington Boulevard North. The standard buffer for a Category III wetland within the City of Renton is 25 feet. However, the draft/updated SMP states that the minimum buffer of a Category III wetland within shoreline jurisdiction with a wildlife function of less than 20 points is 75 feet. Additional wetlands exist immediately off-site. Appendix A contains a survey map depicting these features. The project site is mostly forested with mature deciduous trees. However, the understory is dominated by non-native species. The site was historically cleared, filled (including wetland fill), and graded; and May Creek was likely channelized. As such, the project site is an ideal location for stream and wetland restoration/enhancement actions that would benefit both fish and wildlife. City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:\nRENT00000014\0600/NFO\EnvironmenfEAFinal Fawcett Parcel Critical Araas Report.doc May IO, 2011 8 0 0.5 1 Miles G G City King County (Unincorporated) ~ Stream ~ -'-; Waterbody Vicinity Map Fawcett Parcel RENT0000-0014 Figure 1 OAIIIO IVANS l! _ .... oetATIS-. i '----------------------L--M_a_rc_h_2_0_11 _ _. _______ ....JL----.......1 ~ Source: King County GIS, Ecology GIS Thi• map wao created by O.vld Evans and Aaaoclatea, Inc. (DEA) for the City of Renton. Accuracy and C11'Tancy da~nd upon the 1ourca data at the time it 11 acqui"ad. DEA makH no "'presentation o,w...,.nry as to tha c:orrecll'laH ol Iha lntbrmatlcn depi::llld on 11111 map. It ii lm.ndad for Hmiled plamng purpo"'5 ai YHd to l>llltw .. n DEA.and Its client and ii riot suitable for dnign, 1urv1y. con1TIJC!ion, orothar u..,. orf<lr ohr projects. It Is sll'k:'y brtlld<Hln to madify, HI, dia~ or ,aproducalh"' map t,, ,ny _.on w~houl the v,r,tten consent of DEA. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Aerial Photo a::::] Parce l Boundary Fawce tt Parcel 0 RENT0000-0014 " o 7s 1so Figure 2 DAYIDm.N• ... __ :·_·_·_·_·_·_•_c_=_=_=_=_=_=_:::J_F_e_e_t _______________ ..1. __ M_a_n_c_h_2_0_1_1 __ ._ _________ .... _-_A_ .. _o_c_,A_T_ .. _-_ ... j So urce: King County GIS, City of Ren ton GIS -mop WU crootod by O..tl E,o,-ond AatodotN, Inc. (DEA) far !he Qty al RM, .... Aco,rwcy and -di pond._,,,,.""""" data et lh• tiM It 1, acqUftd. DEA mlU• no Npf'9Mntation or wamnty u tt 1M oo,ractn1111 al fl• tni>rmelion depk:llld on this IMP-11 ii lrund.:I tor lmled pllMhg pu-polN H agreed to betwHn OE.A end 1ts c ient and II notaultabll fordetlgrt. 1urwy. conMNdlon, or oth« u ... orfot otherp,ojecm. It ii stncty brbldden to modify, tel, d ll_..lbut1 or reproduce 1h11 map for any reason wkhout tie writttn oonaent of DEA. 2.0 METHODS The methods to document if critical areas exist on or immediately adjacent to the Fawcett Property Lot 2 included a review of public domain information and site visit. This report was prepared following the review of public domain resource data and multiple site visits. 2 .1 PRELIMINARY DATA GATHERING AND REVI EW Published information about local critical areas was reviewed for evidence of wetlands, streams, priority habitats and species, steep slopes, coal mine hazards, erosion hazards, floodplains, and aquifer recharge zones. The USFWS was consulted for information on the known or possible occurrence of plants and animals listed under the federal Endangered Species Act (BSA) that could occur in King County. The WDFW-PHS program and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) Washington Natural Heritage Program (NHP) (WDNR 2011) were consulted for documented occurrences of priority habitats or species, rare plants, and high quality native ecosystems in the general vicinity of the site. Priority habitats include, but are not limited to, such features as wetlands, riparian areas, snag-rich areas, caves, cliffs, oak woodlands, rocky shorelines, and old-growth fo rests. Priority species are plants and animals listed by the state or federal government as endangered, threatened, sensitive, candidate, or species of concern. The potential use of the project area by mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles was investigated through review of Washington State Gap Analysis (WSGA) data. The information reviewed included: • Sensitive Areas Map Folio, King County, Washington (1990) • A Catalog of Washington Streams and Salmon Utilization, Volume 1, Puget Sound Region. Washington Department of Fisheries (Williams et al. 1975) • Salmon and Steelhead Habitat Limiting Factors R eport for the Cedar-Sammamish Basin (Water Resource Inventory Area 8) (Kerwin 2001) • Breeding Birds of Washington State, Location Data and Predicted Distributions (Smith et al. 1997) • Terrestrial Mammals of Washington State, Location Data and Predicted Distributions (Johnson and Cassidy 1997) • Amphibians and Reptiles of Washington State, Location Data and Predicted Distributions (Dvornich, McAllister, and Aubry 1997) • WDNR-NHP data (accessed 2011): Sections that Contain Natural Heritage Features Associated with Wetlands. Available at: http://www l .dnr. wa. gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf • WDNR-NHP Geographic Information System (GIS) data. Available at: http://wwwl.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/gis/index.html City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report 4 May 10, 2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I • National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) Online Mapper, USFWS: http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/Data/mapper.html • City of Renton -GIS data. Available at: http://rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id-27497 • United States Geological Survey (USGS) mapping via National Geographic TOPO mapping software • USGS Real-Time Water Data. Available at: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt • United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) -Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): Web Soil Survey. Available at: http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/ • Final Adopted May Creek Basin Action Plan dated April 2001. Available at: http://your.kingcounty.gov/dnrp/library/1998/kcr726/FINAL-May-Creek-Basin-Plan- 4-l 6-0l.pdf • Appendix G: Stream Habitat Conditions Report -Stream Habitat Conditions During Low Flow Conditions. 1-405 North Renton. Prepared by WDFW dated August 2003. Available at: http://www. wsdot. wa.gov/NR/rdonlyres/F658E402-ECD0-4F3B-99C 1- 04 73AE 14C512/0/G StreamHabitatConditions.pdf • King County Stream and River Water Quality Monitoring Data-King County Water and Land Resources Division. Data available at: http://green.kingcounty.gov/WLR/Waterres/StreamsData/WaterShedinfo.aspx?Locat or=0440 • City of Renton Shoreline Master Program Update. Available at: http://rentonwa.gov/business/ default.aspx?id= 15 5 08 2.2 FIELD INVESTIGATION DEA performed the site visits on March 21 and 22, 2011 to verify preliminary data findings, verify if previous OHWM flagging of May Creek was still valid, delineate wetland boundaries, document existing habitat conditions, and document wildlife use. Wetlands were delineated based on the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Version 2) dated May 2010 (Corps 2010). Wetlands were categorized based on the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington (Ecology 2004) with the updated wetland rating form _(updated October 2008). City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:\JIRENT00000014\0600/NFO\Environmentaf\Final Fawcett Parcel Critical Anias Rapott.doc 5 May IO, 2011 3.0 RESULTS 3.1 PRELIMINARY DATA GATHERING AND REVIEW 3.1.1 WDFW PHS Data The WDFW-PHS data obtained for this project mapped May Creek as flowing along the southern edge of the project site. May Creek is mapped by WDFW as being utilized by priority fish including coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch), fall Chinook salmon (0. tshawytscha), sockeye salmon (0. nerka), winter steelhead trout (0. mykiss), and resident cutthroat trout (0. clarki) (WDFW 2011 ). No other priority species or habitats have been identified by WDFW (2011) as existing on-site. The closest priority habitat site to the project site is a purple martin (Progne subis) nest located near the mouth of May Creek. The purple martin nest is approximately 0.2 mile west of the project site. Several bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) nests are located along the shoreline of Lake Washington. Four nests are located along the southern edge of Mercer Island, but are generally at least one mile west of the project site. Another bald eagle nest is located in Renton near the mouth of the Cedar River, but this nest is over two miles south of the project site. As noted later in the text (Section 3.2.4), one mature bald eagle was observed on-site obtaining nesting material during the site visit. 3.1.2 WDNR NHP Data A review of Sections that Contain Natural Heritage Features Associated with Wetlands did not include T24N ROSE S32 (data current as of November 5, 2010). The WDNR reports that 27 rare plants occur in King County (Table 1 ). Table 1: Rare Plants of King County Common Name Scientific Name Swamn Sandwort Arenaria naludicola Vancouver nround cone Boschniakia hookeri Stalked Moonwort Bo' .. 'chium """'uncu/osum Alaska Harebell Camnanula /asiocaroa Bristlv Sedne Carex comosa Larne-awn Sedne Carex macrochaeta Few-flowered Sedne Carex nauciflora Lono-sMed Sedoe Carex sMosa Clubmoss Cassion"e Cassio""' lvconodioides Golden Paintbrush Castilleia levisecta Golden Chinnuanin ChNSO/enis chNsonhaJ/a Tall Buabane Cimicifuaa efata Scleenwort-leaved noldthread Coo tis as, /eniifolia Toothed Wood Fem 0Nonteris carthusiana Black Liiv Fritiflaria camschatcensis Canadian St. John's.wort H•"'nricum maius Water Lobelia Lobelia dortmanna 8"'"' Clubmoss L ,.,...,.,rvv1iella inundata Treelike Clubmoss Lvr:onodium dendroideum Whtte Meoonella Meconella orenana Branchinn Mantia Mantia diffusa Charis' Boa-orchid Platanthera chorisiana City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report State Status 1 Federal Status 1 Historic Record X LE Yes R1 No s SC No s None No s None No T None Yes s None No s None No T None No E LT Yes s None No s SC Yes s None No R1 None No s None No s None No T None No s None Yes s None No T SC Yes s None Yes T None No P:lr.RENT00000014\0600/NFO\Environmental\Final Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas Report.doc 6 May 10,2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I C0irlrii0ii N3me· ··. ''.?i;.;·_)/:!'.(:i 1 .. · .. ::-1 Scientlflc:Na'me ~ .:i• ::.:::. 1'.q •:, ' State:.s~ai~SJ,::; i' Federal staius 1. ' "·Historic Record Humped Bladderwort Utricularia iibba R1 None Yes Flat-leaved Bladderwort Utricu/aria intermedia s None No Lesser Bladderwort utricularia minor R1 None No Note 1. Status Key: E = endangered, T = threatened, S = sensitive, Rl = review group 1 (potential concern but need more field work), R2 review group 2 (potential concern but unresolved taxonomic questions), LT= listed threatened, SC= species of concern, and Yes under Historic Record indicates the most recent sighting in the county is before 1977. The 27 rare plants identified as potentially occurring in King County by the WDNR typicaliy have very specific habitat requirements. These range from being associated with prairie/grassland habitats, bogs and fens, freshwater wetlands or lake margins, high elevation/subalpine habitats, old growth forests, or coniferous forests. A review of Sections that Contain Natural Heritage Features Associated with Wetlands did not include T24N ROSE S32 (data current as of November 5, 2010). A search of the WDNR-NHP GJS data did not produce any records of rare plants or high quality native ecosystems in the project vicinity. 3.1.3 Streams Williams et al. (1975) describes May Creek (stream number 08-0282) as an 8.6-mile-long stream with numerous tributaries. Fisheries resources in May Creek include anadromous and resident species. May Creek supports several salmonid species including fall Chinook salmon, coho salmon, sockeye salmon, winter steelhead, and resident cutthroat trout. Numerous other non- salmonids utilize this stream. May Creek originates from the slopes of Cougar and Squak mountains and highlands of the Renton Plateau. Significant tributaries include Honey Creek, Boren Creek, and the North, East, and South Forks of May Creek. The project area is within the Lower Basin Subarea, which starts at the confluence of May Creek with Lake Washington, upstream to River Mile (RM) 3.9. The Fawcett Property is located in the vicinity of RM 0.20, which is immediately downstream or west of the 1-405 crossing over May Creek. Based on a review of the May Creek Basin Plan, no stream reaches in the May Creek basin currently meet the criteria for Regionally Significant Resource Areas (~SRAs). However, May Creek, in the project vicinity, is identified as a Locally Significant Resource Area (LSRA). Furthermore, the project reach includes habitat identified as Lower Basin Subarea Recommendation 13. Lower Basin Subarea Recommendation 13 is the planting of conifers throughout the riparian area in May Creek Canyon from RM 0.2 to 3.9. Stream Habitat. Habitat conditions in May Creek are variable, but typical of most urbanized streams in that habitat conditions have been degraded. According to the WDFW (2003), the project reach is in remarkably good condition considering past channel alterations. The riparian canopy is dominated by deciduous species such as cottonwood (Populus balsamifera), red alder (A/nus rubra), and to a lesser degree big-leaf maple (Acer macrophyllum). In-stream large woody debris (L WD) was mostly absent, but some log/stick jams were reported to be creating pools. The channel is very straight from being ditched and straightened in the past. The banks are not armored except at the upstream and downstream bridge crossings. The gravels were noted as being of sufficient size for spawning, although embedded with mud and fines. Fish were reported as being present but scarce. Chinook, sockeye, and peamouth chub (My/ocheilus caurinus) are known to spawn in the project reach (WDFW 2003). The WDFW (2003) reported the project reach provides opportunities for stream and riparian enhancement/restoration, and wetland creation associated with channel manipulation. They stated much of the channel is too narrow for the flows and significant channel enlarging, and City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:u1RENT00000014\0600INFO\Environmentaf1Final Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas Report.doc 7 May 10,2011 some lengthening is called for prior to adding LWD or major riparian planting. The WDFW report also recommends using the abandoned site to the north of the project parcel as a stormwater treatment facility to treat runoff from 1-405. Water Quality. May Creek is categorized as "Core Summer Salmonid Habitat" for aquatic life use and "Primary Contact" for recreational use. May Creek has also been assigned an additional "Supplemental Spawning and Incubation Protection" temperature criteria of l 3°C, which is to be applied from September 15th through May 15th. Under the pre-1997 rules, May Creek was considered a Class AA waterbody. Water Quality issues identified by Ecology through the 303(d) listing process includes violations of temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, fecal coliform, ammonia-N, and Mercury (Table 2). Table 2: May Creek 2008 Water Quality Assessment : Parameter 2008 Category 1998 303(d) List .. 1996 303(d) List Ammonia-N 1 No No Temperature 2 Yes Yes pH No No Disso~ed Oxygen 2 No No Fecal Coliform 5 Yes Yes Mercury 2 No No The categories are defined as follows: • Category I -Meets tested standards for clean waters. • Category 2 -Waters of concern: Waters where there is some evidence of a water quality problem, but not enough to require production of a water quality improvement project- total maximum daily load (TMDL)-at this time. • Category 3 -Insufficient data: This category will be largely empty. Water bodies that have not been tested will not be individually listed, but if they do not appear in one of the other categories, they are assumed to belong here. • Category 4-Polluted waters that do not require a TMDL: Waters that have pollution problems that are being solved in one of three ways: o Category 4a -has a TMDL: Water bodies that have an approved TMDL in place and are actively being implemented. o Category 4b-has a pollution control program: Water bodies that have a program in place that is expected to solve the pollution problems. While pollution control programs are not TMDLs, they must have many of the same features and there must be some legal or financial guarantee that they will be implemented. o Category 4c -is impaired by a non-pollutant: Water bodies impaired by causes that cannot be addressed through a TMDL. These impairments include low water flow, stream channelization, and dams. • Category 5 -Polluted waters that require a TMDL: The traditional list of impaired water bodies known as the 303( d) list. Placement in this category means that Ecology has data showing that the water quality standards have been violated for one or more pollutants, City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:\nRENT00000014\0600/NFO\Environmental\Final Fawcett Parcel Critical Araas Reporl.doc 8 May!0,2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I and there is no TMDL or pollution control plan. TMDLs are required for the water bodies in this category. A 25-year trend analysis (1979 -2004) in May Creek indicates water quality has declined with significant increases in water temperature, conductivity, and ammonia-nitrogen. Other parameters such as pH have increased, but are still within the acceptable range based on state standards. Some parameters have improved as there has been a decrease in total suspended soHds (TSS) and nutrient concentrations (ortbo-phosphorus , nitrate, and total nitrogen). Analysis of sediment samples indicates nickel exceeded concentration guidelines. Generally speaking, May Creek had the 9th highest metal concentrations out of 27 streams monitored in King County. The monitoring of b e nthic invertebrates indicates stream conditions are fair based on benthic invertebrate index (BIBI) scores from 2002 and 2003. 3.1.4 Wetl and s A review ofUSFWS National Wetland Inventory -Wetland Mapper, King County GIS data, and City of Renton GIS data did not indicate any wetlands exist on the project site. The closest documented wetland is identified as wetland W-30 and is located on the east side of I-405 opposite of the Fawcett Parcel (Figure 3). According to the May Creek Basin Plan, only one wetland within the May Creek basin currently qualifies as an RSRA. This RSRA is identified as Wetland 11 in the Long Marsh Creek (WRJA #08 .0289) basin. Several wetlands within the May Creek basin have been identified as LSRAs. However, W-30 is not included as a LSRA. 3.1.5 U.S. Departmen t of Agri c ulture So il Data The USDA NRCS mapped soils in the project area as Norma sandy loam (Fig ure 4). The surface layer is typically a black sandy loam about 10 inches thick. The subsoil is typically a dark grayish-brown and dark gray sandy loam that extends to a depth of 60 plus inches. This soil type forms on flood plains from alluvium. It is poorly drained with a depth to water tabl e of about zero inches. The USDA Soil Conservation Service (SCS) Hydric Soils of the State of Washington (USDA 1991) list for King County includes Norma sandy loam as a hydric soil. 3.1 .6 Geologi c Criti ca l Area s Geologic critical areas include landslide hazards areas, high seismic hazard areas, sensitive slopes 25-40%, protected slopes >40%, and high erosion hazard areas (Fig ure 5). The entire north side of May Creek in the project area is included as a landslide hazard area. The south side of May Creek includes landslide hazards areas, high seismic hazard areas, sensitive slopes 25- 40%, protected slopes >40%, and high erosion hazard areas. 3.1 . 7 Floodplains The project site includes the mainstem of May Creek and is mapped as being within the special flood hazard area that is inundated by the 100-year flood (Figure 3). City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:~ENT00000014\0600/NFO\Environmental\Fina/ Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas ReJ)Olt.doc 9 May 10, 2011 c:::J Parcel Boundary e3 Area of Special Flood Ha zard ea Wetland Critical Areas -Aquatic Fawcett Parcel l Waterbody " l o••••~•:=;=e=lin=e=o::::J:;:~tat•e RE:::::14 Figure 3 _::::o~::_ .._ _________ ;;;;.. ________ .....1 ..... _____ .._ ______ _._ ____ _. Source: King County GIS , Ecology GIS, City of Renton GIS, FWS NWI Thlt mep Wit created b)' David Evt1n1 and AllodatN, Inc. (DEA) for the City ol Renton. Aocuf'lq' and on.ncy des,.nd upon the IOWC. data It Iha tml it ll aoqui"ed. DEA make, no 1'9Pf'9Nnlilllon o, Wll'Tll'lty H ID th• correctMU ol lh• lnbmatlon daplctld o,, thlt map. 11 • ltUinded for •mlled plomlng --11 oi,Nd lo -Nn DEA and lta cllonl and la no4 IU1lal>lo for dealgn. aurw~ oon-Jon. « othsu-«far other prcjocts. I la ltricly -IO modify, Ml, dla.-or rapn,<l,ca flla map lot aoy--.i.,. .., ... oon_,., DEA. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Soils C'.3 • • Indianola loamy fin e sand, 4-15% s lopes (lnC) Fawcett Parcel Norma sandy loam (No) Ill 0 75 150 0 RENT0000-0014 F1'gur:e 4 DAVIDeVAN8 ••••===:::i Feet 1 1 -•••oc:1ATae --. i .._ ___________________ ...._ __ M_a_rc_h_2_0_11_...._ _______ ...._ ____ _. ! Source : King County GIS, NRCS Soil s, City of Renton G IS Thit ftVIC,' wa, cnatecl by 0.-M Evans and AasocilltN, Ire. (DEA} for 1M Oty ol Renton. At»Jrecy end curency depend ~ the ~ CNltli II lhe &ne ti • .::qund. DEA rnakal no NpteMntldon or warranty H IO the CIDfNdnaa ol lhe r.tomwoon depica,d on tta map. It la I~ far lmllild pllmhg pwpo .. aa agreed to balw•n DEA and fa di«tt end • not tubble b dfflgn. 1i.ney. conlll'Vdion , or ocher u .. « tor c:6ef p,olac.11 . I • 111idy bbldden ID modify, 1el, dilrhft « reproduce lhla map t>r any renon wthout "• writlln mnMnt of DEA. c::J Parcel Boundary Se nsitive Slopes 25-40% Critical Areas -Geologic Landslide Hazard Area M Protected Sl opes >40% High Seismic Hazard M High Erosion Haza rd Fawcett Parcel -Ii RENT0000-0014 ... 125 250 ~ Figure 5 _::~: .. ~;:: __ ---c=:==:JFeet ~ March 2011 -----------0 Source : King County GIS, City of Renton GIS I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 3.1.8 Shoreline Master Program The City of Renton is in the process of updating their SMP, which is anticipated to be approved in May 2011. In summary, the project site is along a reach .of May Creek that is designated as a Shoreline of the State, and therefore includes areas that fall under shoreline jurisdiction. The project site is identified as May Creek Reach -B (MC-B) and within the shoreline environment designation "Urban Conservancy." The extent of shoreline jurisdictional area includes: I. Lands within 200 feet from the OHWM, or lands within 200 feet from floodways, whichever is greater; 2. Contiguous floodplain areas; and 3. All marshes, bogs, swamps, and river deltas associated with streams, lakes, and tidal waters that are subject to the provisions of the State Shoreline Management Act. The objective of the Shoreline Urban Conservancy Environment Overlay District is to protect, conserve, restore, and manage existing areas with ecological functions of open space, floodplain, and other sensitive lands where they exist in urban and developed settings, while allowing compatible uses. The extent of land within shoreline jurisdiction is depicted in Appendix A. 3.1.9 Amphibians and Reptiles The WSGA data for amphibians and reptiles contains limited site-specific occurrence data, but includes a map for each species outlining its core and peripheral zones (Dvomich, McAllister, and Aubry 1997). These zones represent the potential distribution of each species based on the presence of suitable habitat withi_n each zone. Therefore, the species outlined below in Table 3 have the potential to occur in the general project area if suitable habitat is present. Table 3: Amphibians and Reptiles Common Nai:ne '' '·" Scle_ntiflc_Name: , ..... , : ,., . Note .. \.,.,· .. ··"· "' Northwestern Salamander Ambystoma graci/e Observed Long-toed Salamander Ambystoma macrodactylum Observed Pacific Giant Salamander Dicamptodon tenebrosus Roughskin Newt T aricha granulosa Western Redback Salamander Pfethodon vehicu/um Ensatina Ensatina eschscholtzii Western Toad Bufo boraas Pacific T reefrog Hy/a ragiffa Red-legged Frog Rana aurora Bullfrog Rana catesbeiana Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta Slider T rachemys scripta , Northern Alligator Lizard Elgaria coerulea Western Terrestrial Garter Snake Thamnophis elegans Northwestern Garter Snake Thamnophis ordinoides Common Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtafis Rubber Boa Charina bottae City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report Possibly Present Possibly Present Possibly Present Unlikely Present due to a lack of coniferous downed wood Federal species of concern and state candidate Likely Present Unlikely Present Introduced, could use Wetland C Introduced, common in/near lakes Introduced, common in/near lakes Possibly Present Possibly Present Possibly Present Possibly Present Unlikely Present P:\r.RENT00000014\06001NFO\Environmentar.Final Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas Report.doc 13 May 10,201 l 3.1.10 Mammals Based on a review of WSGA ·data (Johnson and Cassidy 1997), nine mammals have been documented in Township 24 North by Range 05 East (Table 4). However, this list is not all- inclusive and only includes species that were documented in the WSGA database prior to 1997. Table 4: Mammal Record Summary for T24N ROSE # Common Name Scientific Name 1. Shrew-mole Neurotrichus gibbsii 2. Townsend's Mole Scapanus townsendii 3. Little Brown Myotis Myotis /ucifugus 4. Yuma Myotis Myotis yumanensis 5. Eastern Gray Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis 6. House Mouse Mus musculus 7. Norway Rat Rattus no,vegicus 8. Coyote Canis latrans 9. Mountain lion Fe/is concolor Other species not documented in the WSGA database that could potentially utilize the project vicinity include the black bear (Ursus americanus), Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), Trowbridge's shrew (Sorex trowbridgii), vagrant shrew (Sorex vagrans), coast mole (Scapanus orarius), California myotis (Myotis californicus), long-legged myotis (Myotis volans), hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris nocitvagans), big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), Townsend's big-eared bat (Plecotus townsendii), snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus), eastern cottontail (Sylvi/agus jloridnus), mountain beaver. (Aplodontia rufa), Townsend's chipmunk (Tamias townsendii), Douglas' squirrel (Tamiasciurus douglasii), northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus), beaver (Castor canadensis), forest deer mouse (Peromyscus keeni), deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), creeping vole (Micro/us oregoni), Townsend's vole (Micro/us townsendii), muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), pacific jumping mouse (Zapus trinotatus), porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum), nutria (Myocastor coypus), black rat (Rattus rattus), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), raccoon (Procyon lotor), ermine (Mustela erminea), long-tailed weasel (Mustela frenata), mink (Mustela vison), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), spotted skunk (Spi/ogale gracilis), bobcat (Lynx rufus), and black-tailed deer (Odocoi/eus hemionus). 3.1.11 Birds Based on a review of WSGA data, 75 bird species could potentially nest in the general area in or adjacent to T24N ROSE (Smith et al. 1997). This determination is based on combining confirmed, probable, and possible breeding evidence. It is important to note that the species listed in Table 5 are not necessarily associated with the project area but could potentially utilize the project vicinity for nesting, foraging, or during migration. Table 5: Breeding Bird Summary for T24N ROSE # Common Name 1. Pied-billed Grebe 2. Great Blue Heron 3. Green Heron 4. Canada Goose 5. Wood Duck 6. Green-winaed Teal 7. Mallard City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report Sclentlflc Name Podilvmbus nNticeos Ardea herodias Butorides virescens Branta canadensis Aix SrYlllSB Anas crecca Anes vfatvrhvnchos P:'v\RENT00000014\0600JNFO\£nvironmentaf\FinaJ Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas Report.doc 14 May 10, 2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I '1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I # Cominon Name'· 1•· ,.r, 'I'' 8. Gadwall 9. Common Memanser 10. Osorev 11. Bald Eaole 12. Coo=rs Hawk 13. Red-tailed Hawk 14. California Quail 15. Virainia Rail 16. American Coot 17. Killdeer 18. Snotted Sandniner 19. Glaucous-winoed Gull 20. Rock Dove 20. Band-lailed Pineon 21. Vaux's Swift 22. Rufous Humminabird 23. Belted Kinnfrsher 24. Red-breasted Saosucker 25. Downv Woodoecker 26. Hain, Woodnecker 27. Northern Flicker 28. Pileated Woodoecker 29. Olive-sided Flvcatcher 30. Western Wood-Pewee 31. VV111ow Flvcatcher 32. Pacifrc-slooe Flvcatcher 33. Tree Swallow . 34. Violet-areen Swallow 35. Cliff Swallow 36. Barn Swallow 37. Steller's Jav 38. American Crow 39. Black-canned Chickadee 40. Chestnut-backed Chickadee 41. Bushtit 42. Red-breasted Nuthatch 43. Brown Greener 44. Bewick's Wren 45. Winter Wren 46. Mar.;hWren 47. Golden-crowned Kinalet 48. Swainson's Thrush 49. American Robin 50. Cedar Waxwina 51. Euronean Slarlinn 52. Hutton's Vireo 53. Warblino Vireo 54. Oranae-crowned Warbler 55. Yellow Warbler 56. Black-throated Grav Warbler 57. Ccmmon Yellowthroat 58. Wilson's Warbler 59. Western Tanaaer 60. Black-headed Grosbeak 61. Sootted Towhee 62. Savannah Snarrow City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report Scleritlfic Name' ,., ... ., Anas streoera Memus memanser Pandion haliaetus Haliaeetus leucocer:mafus Accioiter coooerii Buteo iamaicensis Calli,v,,""1a califomica Rallus limicola Fu/ica americana Charadrius vociferus Actitis macularia Larus o/aucescens Cofumba fivia Columba fasciata Chaetura vauxi Selasnhorus rufus Cerv/e alcvon Sohvraoicus nuber Picoides nubescens Picoides vi/losus Co/antes auratus DNOCODUS oi/eatus Contoous boreafis Contonus sordidulus Emnidonax trail/ii Emoidonax difficilis Tachvcineta bicolor Tachvcineta thalassina Hirundo nvrrflonota Hirundo rustica Cvanocitta stelleri Corvus brachvrhvnchos Pa11JS atricanillus Parus rufescens Psaftrioarus minimus Sitta canadensis Cerlhia americana Th,vomanes bewickii T roalodvtes t=lodvtes Cistothonus nalustris Reau/us satrana Catharus ustulatus Turdus miaratorius Bombvcilla cedrorum Stumus vu/aaris Vireo huttoni Vireo nifvus Vermivora celata Dendroica mitechia Dendroica niorescens Geoth/.,nis trichas Wi/sonia ousilla Piranaa ludoviciana Pheucticus me/anoceoha/us Pini/a maculatus Passerculus sandwichensis P:\IIRENT00000014\0600/NFO\Environmental\Final Fawcett Parcel Ctitical Areas Reporl.doc 15 May 10, 2011 # Commoi1Name Scientific Name 63. Sona Soarrow Melosdza mefodia 64. White-crowned Sn,:r,rrow Zonotrichia leuconhrvs 65. Darl<-eved Junco Junco hvemalis 66. Red-winaed Blackbird Aaefaius ohoeniceus 67. Brewers Blackbird Euoh:mus cvanocenhalus 68. Brown-headed Cowbird Mo/Dthnus ater 69. Bullock's Oriole ldenus bullockii 70. Purole Finch CarfW'lacus oumureus 71. House Finch Carnnnacus mexicanus 72. Red Crossbill Loxia cutvirostra 73. Pine Siskin Carduelis oinus 74. American Goldfinch Cardue/is tristis 75. House Sn,:r,rrow Passer domesticus 3.1.12 Federally Listed Species The USFWS species list for King County (revised December 15, 2010) includes 7 species listed as threatened or endangered, designated critical habitat for 3 species, 4 candidate species, and 21 species of concern (Appendix B). Based on a review of existing habitat conditions, federally listed species under the jurisdiction of the USFWS do not exist within the immediate project area. May Creek does not provide suitable habitat for bull trout, nor has it been designated as critical habitat. Lake Washington is considered bull trout critical habitat, but is approximately 0.2 mile downstream of the project area. There are no documented bald eagle nests within 1.0 mile of the project area. However, an adult bald eagle was observed utilizing the project site to obtain nesting material during the site visit. Bald eagles forage along the shoreline of Lake Washington, which is approximately 0.2 mile west of the project area. The NMFS has jurisdiction over federally listed anadromous salmonids (Appendix C), marine mammals and turtles, designated Chinook salmon critical habitat, and essential fish habitat (EFH). Chinook salmon and steelhead trout, which are both listed as threatened species, have been documented in May Creek. May Creek has not been designated as Chinook salmon critical habitat. Lake Washington is considered Chinook salmon critical habitat, but is approximately 0.2 mile downstream of the project area. Furthermore, May Creek would be considered as EFH. 3.2 FIELD INVESTIGATION DEA performed multiple site visits on March 21 and 22, 2011 to verify preliminary data findings, delineate wetland boundaries, document existing habitat conditions, and document wildlife use. DEA previously flagged the OHWM of May Creek within the project reach. Site photos are contained within Figure 6. City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:\rtRENTOODOOD14\0600/NFO\Environmanta/\final Fawcett Parcel Cn'tical Areas Report.doc 16 May 10, 2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I G) View of western edge of parcel along Lake Washington Blvd . N . Concrete barrier along right edge of photograph is the May Creek crossing under Lake Washington Blvd . N . ® Parcel edge a long Lake Washington Blvd . N .Culvert in foreground is outlet of Wetland B . Site Photographs Fawcett Property Lot 2 " RENT0000-0014 Figure 6 DAVID EVANS March 2011 -0 A880C IATll81NO, ® Interior of parcel on north side of May Creek. Site Photographs © Interior of parcel on north side of May Creek. Fawcett Property Lot 2 RENT0000-0014 Figure 6 March 2011 • DAVI D EVANS ANOA8SOCIAT88 INC. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ~ 0 (') )( (!) ® Wetland A overview. ® Wetland A Data Plot 1. Site Photographs Fawcett Property Lot 2 • RENT0000-0014 Figure 6 DAVID E VANS March 2011 AH DA990CIATl:8 I NC, 0 May Creek c rossi ng under Lake Washington Blvd . N. Site Photographs ® May Creek immediately upstream or east of Fawcett Property Lot 2 Lake Washington Blvd . N. RENT0000-0014 Figure 6 March 2011 • DAVID BVANS ANoA880C IATB8 1No, I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ® May Creek immediately downstream or west of Interstate 405. @ May C reek crossing under Interstate 405 . Site Photographs Fawcett Property Lot 2 • RENT0000-0014 Figure 6 DAVID EVANS March 2011 .uioASBOCIAT•a tN O , ® View looking toward section of parcel on south side of May Creek. Site Photographs @ View of existing on-site house on south side Fawcett Property Lot 2 of May Creek. RENT0000-0014 Figure 6 March 2011 • DAVID EVANS AN1>A9SOCIAT•• ING, I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I @ Vi~w. of st eep slope immediately north of ex1st1ng house. @ Steep slope on south side of May Creek between house and May Creek. Site Photographs Fawcett Properly Lot 2 • RENT0000-0014 Figure 6 DAVID EVANS March 2011 .-. ... oA880CIATES 1No. @ Wetland B along Lake Washington Blvd . N. Site Photographs @ Wetland B along Lake Washington Blvd. N. Fawcett Property Lot 2 RENT0000-0014 Figure 6 March 2011 -• DAVID EVANS ,UjDA880CIATl!S INO. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 3.2.1 Wetlands Two wetlands were identified as occurring within the immediate project vicinity during the site investigation (Table 6). Wetland A is located on site and was delineated and categorized by DEA. Wetland B is located along the eastern edge of Lake Washington Boulevard North, but was not delineated by DEA. Wetland B was delineated by others, but incorporated onto the site drawing since its buffer had the potential to extend on site. DEA categorized Wetland B to determine the appropriate buffer width. The project site has been historically cleared and at least partially graded. Wetland indicators were observed at multiple locations. The timing of the site visit was ideal for determining the presence of wetland hydrology, which was absent at other areas of initial interest. The site likely historically contained significantly more wetland habitat than what is present today. A B .... -s\.i r;:~·:·:.·;::·;;-.:;\;m.:·-~;, .. Ecology1_: ..... J:.~~!o~y-l'iitt1'. _,. : .. ;: Categciiy . · :WetlandQ!ass .... Ill Depressional Ill Depressional 1 Washington State Department of Ecology · Table 6: Wetland Summary Total.Wetliiiid.S:: WaterQuality;111, [iiHydrology,' ·:,i Wildlife);·.t·i''::' .... "I FunciionS<Wt:.: .... ,FunctiOns'':' ,'~'.:: FUnctionS\·: '' .. · FUnctiol'IS .,l1/ ··c·ity of Renton I sco·r_e;,.,_::;;A}1r,':~1:1 score '.' .f' .::'sCOre 111: SC~re, ._., ;: .J::,.~Uttel'Width2 30 8 4 18 75feet 47 22 10 15 NA ZWetland B is not jurisdictional since it was excavated from uplands and is part of a larger storrnwater conveyance system. Wetlands were categorized based on Ecology methodology and City of Renton Ordinance No. 5137. Wetlands A and B were rated as Category III wetlands based on both methods. The standard buffer width of a Category III wetland within the City of Renton is 25 feet. However, RMC 4-3- 050 CRITICAL AREAS REGULATIONS: M. WETLANDS: 6. Wetland Buffers: a. Buffers Required: iii. states "All required wetland buffer zones shall be retained in their natural condition. Category 3 wetland buffers of twenty-five feet (25') require the buffers be fully vegetated with native species or restored; otherwise increased buffer widths to protect functions and values may be required." The on-site wetland (Wetland A) and its buffer are dominated by non-native species. However, since all of Wetland A and a portion of Wetland B are within shoreline jurisdiction, the SMP dictates buffer width. Based on the draft/updated SMP, Category III wetlands with a low wildlife function ( < 20 points for wildlife function) shall be afforded a minimum buffer width of 75 feet. Wetland A Wetland A is small depression thaf may be a remnant of a larger wetland complex. It is located in the eastern portion of the parcel near I-405 (Appendix A). Wetland A was rated as a Category III wetland based on a total score of 30 points. The range for a Category III wetland is 30 to 50 points. Wetland A scored 8 points for water quality function, 4 points for hydrology functions, and 18 points for habitat function. Appendix D contains a copy of the completed Ecology rating form and wetland delineation data plot forms. Photographs of Wetland A are included in Figure 6 (photos 5 and 6). Soils. Two data plots (DP) were recorded for Wetland A. DP I was located within the wetland, while DP 2 was within the adjacent uplands. A summary of the soils within each DP follows: City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:\/1.RENT00000014\0600/NFO\EnvironmentanFinal Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas Report.doc 25 May 10, 2011 DP 1: Located in the deepest portion of the wetland that showed signs of minor/shallow seasonal ponding (Appendix A). The upper profile from O to 8 inches consisted of a black (lOYR 2/1) colored matrix with dark reddish brown (5YR 3/4) colored mottles. Soil texture consisted of silt loam with some sand. The second profile from 8 to 14 inches consisted of a very dark gray (I OYR 3/1) matrix with dark reddish brown (5YR 3/4) colored mottles. Below 14 inches, the soil was mostly sand with a gleyed color. Based on this information, it was determined these soils were hydric. DP 2: Located immediately west of the wetland in the adjacent uplands (Appendix A). The soil profile at DP 2 consisted of a silt loam horizon with a very dark grayish brown (I OYR 3/2) colored matrix from O to 2 inches. The soil profile from 3 to 16 inches consisted of a dark brown (lOYR 3/3) matrix color with sand clusters that had a light yellow brownish gray (IOYR 4/4) color. No mottles were observed in either profile. Based on this information, it was determined these soils were hydric. Hydrology. Hydrology in Wetland A is supported by groundwater. Soils in DP I were saturated to the surface and groundwater was encountered at a depth of 7 inches. This wetland is isolated from May Creek and no obvious hydrologic inputs other than groundwater were apparent. Some seasonal ponding in the immediate vicinity of DP I is likely, but not enough to support aquatic organisms. Vegetation. Wetland A is dominated by red alder (A/nus rubra [FAC]) and Himalayan blackberry (Rubus procerus [FACU]), but some salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis [F AC+]). Approximately four red alder (A/nus rubra [F AC]) are present along the edges. Classification. Wetland A was rated as a Category III wetland based on the Ecology Rating system. Wetland A received a total score of 30 points based on functions, which is at the lower end of this category (Category III = 30 to 50 points). In other words, Wetland A was close to being rated a Category IV wetland. Functions. Wetland A was rated low for water quality (8 points) and hydrologic (4 points) functions (26 points), and moderate for wildlife ( 18 points) functions. The low score for water quality function is due to the limited area that is seasonally ponded and lack of opportunity to improve water quality. The low score for water quality function is due to the minimal depth of storage, small wetland size compared to basin size, and limited opportunity to reduce flooding and erosion. The moderate score for wildlife function is not due to the attributes of the wetland itself as it is generally degraded, but more related to its location. It received several high scores on specific questions due to it being. adjacent to a stream within a forested riparian area. Its buffer is relatively undisturbed and there are several other wetlands within one-half mile. WetlandB Wetland B is located immediately north of Lot I (off-site) along the eastern edge of Lake Washington Boulevard North. It is a long, linear. ditch-like wetland that includes emergent, scrub/shrub, and forest components. It drains toward the project site to a culvert that appears to drain toward May Creek. Wetland B was excavated from uplands to convey stormwater runoff from the adjacent roadway infrastructure to May Creek and is therefore not regulated by the City. According to RMC 4-3-050 M. l.e.i.; "Regulated wetlands do not include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from nonwetland sites for purposes other than wetland mitigation, City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:\nRENT00000014\0600/NFO\Environmenta~Final Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas Report.doc 26 May IO, 2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I including, but not limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass lined swales, canals, detention facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, farm pond, and landscape amenities, or those wetlands created after July 1, 1990, that were unintentionally created as a result of the construction of a road, street, or highway." Wetland Bis to be filled by a proposed City sidewalk project. The dominant species within the emergent/ditch portion is reed canarygrass with some cattails. The dominant tree species is black cottonwood. The shrub layer is dominated by red osier dogwood and willow. Other non-native species present includes English ivy (Hedera helix) and Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum). Mallard ducks and spotted towhee were observed foraging in Wetland B. Wetland B was rated as a Category III wetland based on functions. It received a total score of 47 points including 22 points for water quality functions, 10 points for hydrologic functions, and 15 points for habitat functions. The relatively high score for water quality functions is due to it receiving untreated stormwater from the adjacent roadway network, which substantially increases its opportunity to improve water quality. Wetland B also has the opportunity to reduce flooding and erosion since it stores stormwater runoff. Wetland B scored fewer habitat functions points than Wetland A due to its degraded buffers. 3.2.2 Streams May Creek is a Type S or Class 1 stream since it is a perennial salmonid-bearing waterbody that has been classified by the City and State as Shorelines of the State. Class 1 waters are regulated by RMC 4-3-090, Shoreline Master Program Regulations. As a Shoreline of the State, the area under jurisdiction is defined as: 1. Lands within 200 feet, as measured on a horizontal plane, from the OHWM, or lands within 200 feet from floodways, whichever is greater; 2. Contiguous floodplain areas; and 3. All marches, bogs, swamps, and river deltas associated with streams, lakes, and tidal waters that are subject to the provisions of the State Shoreline Management Act. 3.2.3 Uplands Uplands in the project vicinity are primarily forested and dominated by deciduous species. Red alder (A/nus rubra) and black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera) are the most prevalent species, but a few big-leaf maple (Acer macrophyllum) are also present. The black cottonwood trees are primarily located along the stream channel, while the red alder are scattered throughout. Many of these trees are mature and some have fallen down or become snags. The understory is dominated by non-native species including Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea), and Japanese knotweed. Other species noted include beaked hazelnut (Cory/us cornuta), dogwood (Cornus sericea), salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis), English ivy, and sword fem (Polystichum munitum). The north side of May Creek is generally flat although some minor changes in topography exist. Based on the site visit it appears the area was previously cleared and graded. City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:lr.RENT00000014\0600/NFO\EnvironmentaAFinal Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas Report.doc 27 May 10, 2011 3.2.4 · Wildlife The project area is within a forested riparian corridor that extends from Lake Washington Boulevard North to Cougar Mountain Regional Wildlife Park. This corridor is relatively extensive and provides suitable habitat for a wide array of wildlife. Habitat types within the project area that provide forage, cover, and breeding opportunities include forested uplands, wetlands, and May Creek. Wildlife observed during the site visit were limited to a mature bald eagle obtaining nesting material, deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) tracks, coyote scat, raccoon (Procyon /otor) tracks, eastern gray squirrel, sticks with beaver (Castor canadensis) gnaw marks (probably floated down stream), vole (Micro/us sp.), crows, robins, spotted towhee, and wren. It is important to note that the species mentioned are limited to those observed during the site visits and is not all-inclusive. Numerous species will only use the project area seasonally or during migration; others may be very rare, cryptic, or nocturnal. Surveys were not conducted to target specific species. Tree tops and forks were viewed for the presence of raptor nests but none were observed. City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:lr.RENT00000014\0600/NFO\Environmentafifinal Fawcett Parcel Critical Araas Report.doc 28 May IO, 2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 4.0 CONCLUSIONS Since the "project" is a short-plat, there is no development or impacts to critical areas associated with this action. As such, no mitigation is proposed and the primary purpose of this report is to document existing conditions as they relate to critical areas regulated by the City of Renton that occur on or immediately adjacent to the May Creek Short Plat. The project area includes May Creek, fish and wildlife habitat conservation area (critical habitats), wetlands, high se1sm1c hazard, land designated as shoreline jurisdiction, and area of special flood hazard. The City of Renton is pursuing this purchase as a potential site for a future trail. Critical areas that will require the most focus when permitting a trail through this site will be the area within shoreline jurisdiction of May Creek and area of special flood hazard. Acceptable activities within shoreline jurisdiction as defined by the updated SMP are listed in RMC 4-3-090E USE REGULATIONS. According to the Shoreline Use Table, trails are permitted provided that the use does not degrade the ecological functions or natural character of the shoreline area. Although the site is partially forested, the understory is dominated by non- native species. Furthermore, the tree layer is dominated by deciduous species and lacks saplings that could replace the existing mature trees once they are no longer viable. Therefore, the site has significant potential for restoration that would benefit both fish and wildlife. If a future trail avoids the existing significant trees and is primarily located within areas currently dominated by non-native species, mitigation that includes planting conifers and other native species between said trail and May Creek would likely improve habitat functions and therefore conform to the intent of the SMP. This type ofrestoration is also consistent with the May Creek Basin Plan. Minimizing or avoiding compensatory floodplain mitigation requirements would require constructing the trail at the existing ground level. This would require leveling an approximately 8-foot-wide swath through the project site. Additional investigation will be required to determine if this is feasible, but the site is generally flat. However, should compensatory floodplain mitigation be required, it could be achieved by excavating upland areas currently dominated by non-native species. This action would likely result in the creation of wetland habitat. Avoiding wetland impacts should be achievable, but would likely require buffer averaging. The existing buffer of Wetland A can be shifted to the north while keeping the new revised buffer fully on-site. Although balancing the various critical areas requirements will take planning, it appears feasible. Furthermore, since Wetland ·A and its buffer are dominated by Himalayan blackberry, mitigation/restoration that includes planting conifers and other native species will improve habitat functions for both Wetland A and May Creek. In summary, a properly designed trail that avoids existing native vegetation can be constructed through Lot 1 that, combined with adequate mitigation/restoration, would "not degrade the ecological functions or natural character of the shoreline area" and improve habitat functions. However, since construction of a trail may require modification of required setbacks or buffers ( depending on exact location), a shoreline conditional use permit may be required. City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:\nRENT00000014\0000INFO\Environmentaf\Final Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas Rapat.doc 29 May IO, 2011 5.0 REFERENCES Dvornich, K.M., K.R. McAllister, and K.B. Aubcy. 1997. Amphibians and Reptiles of Washington State, Location Data and Predicted Distributions. Washington State Gap Analysis Project Final Report -Volume 2. Johnson, R.E., and K.M. Cassidy. 1997. Terrestrial Mammals of Washington State, Location Data and Predicted Distributions. Volume 3 in Washington State Gap Analysis-Final Report, (K.M. Cassidy, C.E. Grue, M.R. Smith and K.M. Dvomich, eds.), Washington Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Washington, Seattle, 304 pp. Kerwin, J. 200 I. Salmon and Steel head Habitat Limiting Factors Report for the Cedar - Sammamish Basin (Watershed Water Resource Inventory Area 8). Washington State Conservation Commission. Olympia, Washington. King County. 1994. Water Quality of Small Lakes and Streams -Western King County 1990- 1993. Publication 946 .. King County Building and Land Development Division. Seattle, Washington. ---. 1990. King County Sensitive Areas Map Folio. King County, Washington. Meehan. 1991. lnjluences of Forest and Rangeland Management on Salmonid Fishes and their Habitats. American Fisheries Society Special Publication 19. NOAA Fisheries. 1996. Making Endangered Species Act Determinations of Effect for Individual or Grouped Actions at the Watershed Scale. National Marine Fisheries Service, Environmental and Technical Services Division, Habitat Conservation Branch. Lacey, Washington. Reiser and Bjomn. 1979. Habitat Requirements of Anadromous Salmonids. USFS General Technical Report DNW-96. Pacific Northwest Forest and Rangeland Experiment Station. Portland, Oregon. Smith, M.R., P.W. Mattocks, Jr., and K.M. Cassidy. 1997. Breeding Birds of Washington State. Volume 4 in Washington State Gap Analysis -Final Report, (K.M. Cassidy, C.E. Grue, M.R. Smith, and K.M. Dvomich, eds.), Seattle Audubon Society Publications in Zoology No. I, Seattle, 538 pp. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps). 2010. Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Version 2). May. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (formerly Soil Conservation Service). 1991. Hydric Soils of the State of Washington. ---. Soil Conservation Service. 1973. Soil Survey of King County Area, Washing/on. Washington Agricultural Experiment Station. City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Ar~as Report P:\IIRENT00000014\0600INFO\Environmental\Final Fawcett Parcel Critical Areas Report.doc 30 May 10, 2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 1998. A Framework to Assist in Making Endangered Species Act Determinations of Effect for Individual or Grouped Actions at the Bull Trout Subpopulation Watershed Scale. Lacey, Washington. Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology). 2005. 2004 Water Quality Assessment (Final), Category 5 Listings for WRIA 8. Available on the www at http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wg/303d/2002/2004 documents/wria pdfs-5final/kk- active-5-wria8.pdf ---. 2004. Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington. Washington State Department offish and Wildlife (WDFW). 2011. Priority Habitat and Species Data -Habitats and Species Report in the Vicinity ofT24R05E Section 32 dated May 03, 2011. ---. 1994. 1992 Washington State Salmon and Steelhead Stock Inventory. Olympia, Washington. Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). 2007. Washington Natural Heritage Program Rare Plant and High Quality Native Ecosystem Data Search dated March 14, 2007. Williams, R.W., R.M. Laramie and J.J. Ames. 1975. A Catalog of Washington Streams and Salmon Utilization -Volume I, Puget Sound Region. Washington Department of Fisheries. Wydoski and Whitney. 1979. Inland Fishes of Washington. University of Washington Press. Seattle, Washington. City of Renton May Creek Short-Plat Critical Areas Report P:~ENT00000014\0600INFO\EnvironmentafiFinal Fawcatt Parcal Critical A,eas Repott.doc 31 May 10, 2011 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I '--- . ·-.. ~6,~,--:--. . .,,;;, ..... LOT1 ·, ,·, ·. ~ ·. " 's.:,.>," • • J'.,p •• ·,d',p .. ' -,i; ' '"> '· {3224059081) \ ·.si.,..-, \ / _l, NEW LOT UNE.-:- N45"37'39"w 28.60' \...01 \ .. ,,_ uP.'oD~o~/yu-P. -~ ii" \:. ;i 26' "' ~ I I \\II / / :z // I" I N88'49'0J"W ~- LOT2 20,833 SF (GROSS) 17,370 Sf (NET) ~ 76.37' NS9"4ro5t: N88'55'!3"W (R) B0.l6' S88"37'on: ~~-'-1-i-=- ~ I ~ I LOT 'B' DET All.. f• 50' v g 0 § z w "i ~ '<2 :-> :;J-o ~ '-' 0 0 v ~ v 0 0 0 0 0 ~ z w ? > " E u ;o; N '-0 '-"' 0 > 0 u LEGEND (M) MEASURED OR CALCULATED (D) LEGAL DESCRIPTION QUIT CLAIM DEED FlLEO INDER REC. NO. 8112280178 (W) W.S.D.O.T. RECORD OF SURVEY REC. NO. 20031210900003 (8) 8.R.H. RECORO OF SURVEY REC. NO. 20000209900005 (G) CARDNER RECORD OF SURVEY REC. NO. 7707159003 • FOUND REBAR 6: C.&J>· "OEA 38017" " MONUMENT FOUNO @ SET 5/8" REBAR WITH 2· ALUMINUM CAP STAMPED "PROP COR". "OS" (IF OfFESET). AND "38017" REFERENCES QTY Cf' RENTON BOONDARY LINE AD.AJSTMENT NUMBER WA-05-069-UA. Af (.!0051012900009, KING COUNTY. = + -(3224059081) I i ;"--., I I ' f4 REBAR PER WSOOT R.O.S. 20031210900003 NOT \1SllED CURING THE COJRSE Of THIS SUR'v£Y N88'45'56"W (MX'lr) ~xw,- LUAXXX-XXX LID lOOOOOO( "' --I' ~ FOUND BRASS NAL IN IRON PIPE OTY OF RENTON MONUMENT ID #1834 NORlH 59967.794 EAST 397363.176 \" I I \ ' SHO<EUNE I .to> ,b, I/ ----..... ( ~:AGEMENT ZO.E I /+ "" NJ0'56:oa•E (M) C,'24-059049) NJ0'56 1'"E (DJ o -' 0 CE 70.98' / --~ GAP IN~ ---~ -_ UNPLA TTED ..i'O ! E"k Qv-' t ,, ~1, z .g ~! ~.~~NG / .,,,___ \ ~ ... I I I -_ l>, "' PR<FfRTY •• ,... \ "~ (; I 1Y~. P2~\~ ,,,., '0 •r~; , '\ --,-~· + o PJ J<~/ («,,7J •• , ... "-' '\ CE I I' \ ' , ""'~-. • , • ' ... •G -=~-/ / ,, '>a,,-,, ,' ON \ """-"'' ·c, -,_ --, r,;. 1 I I ~ l'IUOED ON SIDE 0.1' ~---~ o D o / ' ! ?,s, • 0, &oc,,..~~ I I 195.6J' R-28M.79 L•200.00 P=0.58 K-100.00 A .. 756.94 I ,-\'!s' 1..01 iG9·'-'-" / '._/ .,..,L __ ,,.,,. ~~ Q'5~0 ;:i'"' , ,._-~ ,,-__,/ f; I "-,a;.~"-:• '-"" COT 1 / \---;: _ I ', \ ;:--:,..,_ I ,,,,;:: ~ ' --" -',, ,s' '"""'( --1-c ::i /~ "-, '-s "'' :> ,1 ,§ 1 Iv, ' , ~. ',, , , ; , ; "-....._ , _ ~<, _ •" f><=0 'rA,_ 11 \I )II~ g /;' I \ ,,, ,v · '-' 786S.F. ,\ I • \..~G9'• ~-+,;}, f <: --I I I , .. ~• , .,_,, 's,, t.l • ,:,'\ I I 200' SHORELINE _J '-.. \.. '-.. e:_ "' - ~Ii/FOUND 2 1/2" IRON PIPE I souru AND 0.4· EAST OF I CAL CUL.A TED POSITION 125' I 0 ,a 100 SCALE:1· .. 100· 200 ii ;i i I I~ r---'-'l~,q, M'"AGEMOH Z<><E "' '-.. '/), -·/, ' --.....__ ----........._ '-. ""'"""' I --........._ --~ >-.. ""~ I ~ 21)' WOC OTY Of / '-", , EASEMENT REC • b=0"20'29" R•27J9.79' L•16.J2' L_l (2212000000) ~ EASTPORT SHORES ~ CONDOM!N!UMS (322405903$ ' '-', ~ '-._ REN70N lfl\UTY NO . '\. 7510080741 AND I I OUARTER CORNER {NOT FOUND OR SEARCHED FOR) SECTION CORNER QUARTER CORNER TAX LOT / PARCEL NUMBER CREEK OR RIVER EDGE OF CRAVEL OR DIRT EASEMENT LINE PROPERTY LINE EXISTING RIGHT-Of-WAY LINE SECTION LINE ."-I ' I (322-4059040 PAOPERTY COAIER TABLE (PROPERTY CORNERS SET ON CREEK BANK AS FOi.LOWS:) ~ Pt SET 5/8" REBAR Will, 2" ALUMINUM CAf' N45"E-25' FROM CORNER LOCATION P2 SET 5/8" REBAR wrn1 2" ALUWINUW CAP N45"E 22' FROM CORNER LOCATI(),I P3 SET 5/8" REBAR \UH 2" ALUMINUM CAP N45'E 26' FROM CORNER LOCATION P4 SET 5/8" REBAR WITH 2" ALUl,HNUM CAf' N45'E 32' FROM CORNER LOCATION P5 SET 5/8" REBAR WITH 2" ALUWINUW CAP N45'E JO' FROM CORNER LOCATICfl P6 SET 5/8" REBAR 1111TH 2" ALUMINUM CAP N45'E 20' FROM CORNER LOCATION P7 SET 5/8"" REBAR 1111TH 2" ALUWINUM CAP N45'E 24' FROM CORNER LOC-'TION PB SET 5/8" REBAR 1111TH 2" ALUWINUM CAP N45'E 25' FROM CORNER LOC-'TION P9 SET 5/8" REBAR WITH 2" ALUMINUM CAP N0115'41-W 28' FROM CORNER LOCATION '-. 7510080743 &I WIDE sn.llTARY """' '-"'"'NT R£C. NO SEELOT2 DETAR. I.B"T N45"37'39"W 117.95' 125' N68'49'0CiW 492.~ --SR 405 CENTERLINE PER W.S.D.O.T. REC<Hl OF ~\'£Y REC. NO. 2003121D900003 R=2864.79 L,,.200.00 T•2'00'00" p .. o.58 K=100.00 ,.,,.755,94 t:l ! 8l;! ~~ ~~ i ,:~ I e/ ;, 31 } i -:;;":--.. · 1· i! ~' ~ FOi.MD 2" AL.UWINUW CAP IN 1 1/4" ~ON PIPE i;; ~ J1 .I. 32 -A__ S88'5f22t: J.} 'i -----y ~28.~32] CTY OF RENTON MONI..IMEtH ID fl66 NORTH 58347.931 EAST 397335.034 ; • i ; 32 = • §1§ SHEET_2_QF_2_ SCALE AS NOTED MAY CREEK SHORT PLAT aTY OF FENTON, WASHINGTON ~AVID EVANS AND ASSOCIATES INC, 415-118th Avenue SE Bellevue Washington 98005-3518 Phone: 425.519.6500 SURVEYB)_JMJ_, ____ _ RB..D BOOK IN FIL£ DRAWN DEV/GGW 5 10 11 CHECKED_~OE~V~---- A..E F£NT00000014_ I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I LISTED AND PROPOSED ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES AND CRITICAL HABITAT; CANDIDATE SPECIES; AND SPECIES OF CONCERN IN KING COUNTY AS PREPARED BY THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE WASHINGTON FISH AND WILDLIFE OFFICE (Revised December 15, 2010) LISTED Bull trout (Sa/velinus confluentus) -Coastal-Puget Sound DPS Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis) Gray wolf (Canis lupus) Grizzly bear (Ursus arclos = U. a. horribilis) Marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoralus) Northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina) Major concerns that should be addressed in your Biological Assessment of project impacts to listed animal species include: 1. 2. 3. Level of use of the project area by listed species. Effect of the project on listed species' primary food stocks, prey species, and foraging areas in all areas influenced by the project. Impacts from project activities and implementation (e.g .• increased noise levels, increased human activity and/or access, loss or degradation of habitat) that may result in disturbance to listed species and/or their avoidance of the project area. Castilleja /evisecta (golden paintbrush) [historic] Major concerns that should be addressed in your Biological Assessment of project impacts to listed plant species include: 1. Distribution of taxon in project vicinity. 2. Disturbance (trampling, uprooting, collecting. etc.) of individual plants and Joss of habitat. 1. Changes in hydrology where taxon is found. DESIGNATED Critical habitat for bull trout Critical habitat for the marbled murrelet Critical habitat for the northern spotted owl PROPOSED Revised critical habitat for bull trout CANDIDATE Fisher (Martes pennanti) -West Coast DPS North American wolverine (Gula gu/o /uteus)-contiguous U.S. DPS Oregon spotted frog (Rana pretiosa) [historic] Yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus) SPECIES OF CONCERN Bald eagle (Ha/iaeetus /eucocepha/us) Belier's ground beetle (Agonum belleri) Cascades frog (Rana cascadae) Hatch's click beetle (Eanus hatchi) Larch Mountain salamander (Plethodon larselli) Long-eared myotis (Myotis evotis). Long-legged myotis (Myotis volans) Northern goshawk (Accipiter genii/is) Northern sea otter (Enhydra tuttis kenyoni) Northwestern pond turtle (Emys (= C/emmys) mannorata marmorata) Olive-sided flycatcher (Con/opus cooperi) Pacific lamprey (Lampetra tridentata) Pacific Townsend's big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii townsendii) Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) River lamprey (Lampetra ayresi) Tailed frog (Ascaphus truei) Valley silverspot (Speyeria zerene bremeri) Western toad (Bufo boreas) Aster curtus (white-top aster) Botrychium pedunculosum (stalked moonwort) Cimicifuga elate (tall bugbane) I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 1, I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Endangered Species Act Status of West Coast Salmon & Steelhead (l/pd11udJ11fy 1, lllO'i) 'c, ; __ . _)_;;:zp:c f}J;//:i!ff ~::tf!~!!'J.i~f~g~,(t\: nder Rev,ew :lii"-,~ '. ;,;':~}.'i!!lll\,1\;;r{ So.:keye Salmon (Oncorhynchu.1 nerka) Baker River Nat Warranted 4 Okanogan River Not Warranted _, __ Lake Wenatchee Nut Warranted 6 _Quinalt Lake Not Warranted Lake Pleasant Sacramento River Winter-nm Chinook Salmon J:lppc:r Columbia River Sp.!!!,lg-run (0. tsha.,,,,ytscha) JO Snake River Sp.!!!,lg1Summer-run 11 Snake River Fall-run 12 _E!lget Sound 13 Lower Columbia River 14 Jlppc:r Willamette River " Central Vallcylip.!!!.ig-nm 16 California Coastal 17 Cen~y Fall and Late Fall-nm 18 J:.lpper Klamath-Trinity Rivers 19 Oregon Coast Nol Warranted 20 _ Washington Coast N"t Warranted 21 Middle Columbia River sp.!!!,lg-run Nol Warranted 22 _!!pp,,::r Columbia River summer/fall-run Not Warranted 23 Southcm Oregon and Northern California Coast Not Warranted 24 Deschutes River sununer/fall-run " Central California Coast Coho Salmon 26 Southern Oregon/Northern California (0. Hrulch) 27 tower Columbia River . Critical habitat 28 J.2.!:!:gon Coast 29 Southwest Washington 30 J1iget Sound/Strait of Georgia 31 01 ic Peninsula Chum Salmon 32 Hood Canal Summer-run (0. keta) 33 Columbia River 34 ~get Sound/Strait of Georgia 35 Pacific Coast 36 Southern California Steelhead 37 J!p~r Colwnbia River (0. mykiss) " Central California Coast 39 South Central California Coast 40 Snake River Basin 41 tower Columbia River 42 California Central Valley __ 43 J!p~r Willamette River 44 Middle Columbia River 4' Northern California 46 On.:a:on Coast 47 Southwest Washington 4H _Q!y,!!.lpic Peninsula 49 Puget Sound . Critical habitat ,0 Klamath Mountains Province Not Warrantr:d Pink Salmon " (0. garbuscha) ~.r.ear Not Warrantr:d " Odd-ear Not Warranted The ESA defines 11 "species" 10 include any distinct population segment of any species of~·ertebrate fish or wildlife. For Pacific salmon, NOAA Fisheries Service considers an evolutionarily significant unit, or "ESU," a "species" under the ESA. For Pacific stcelhelld, NOAA Fisheries Service has delineated distinct population segments (DPSs) for consideration as "species" under the ESA. ·1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Wetland name or number Wetland A WETLAND RATING FORM -WESTERN WASHINGTON Version 2 -Updated July 2006 to increase accuracy and reproducibility among users Updated Oct. 2008 with the new WDFW definitions for priority habitats Name of wetland (if known):. __ ___,W.,_e"'t"'la"'n"d'-A,:,_ _______________ _ Rated by:. ____ =S~co=t=t~S~w~a=rt~s~-----Trained by Ecology? Yes_x_ No Date of site visit: __ ~3'-=-.,2,_l.:..-ILl'- Date of training: __ _,l_;l.:..-1'-'5"'-"06"- SEC: __ ~3~2 __ TWNSHP:_~2~4""N~ RNGE:_~5~E~ Is Sff/R in Appendix D? Yes. ___ _ No X Map of wetland unit: Figure _______ Estimated size. _____ _ SUMMARY OF RATING Category based on FUNCTIONS provided by wetland: -----II ____ _ III __ ..,x.____ IV ___ _ Category I = Score > 70 Category II = Score 51 -69 Category III = Score 30 -50 Score for Water Quality Functions Score for Hydrologic Functions Score for Habitat Functions 8 4 18 Category IV= Score< 30 TOTAL Score for Functions 30 ._ _____ .. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTCS of Wetland II Does not apply __ ... x,_ __ Final Category (choose the "highest" category from above") :;>:,wct~~ff~llit· ha·s·~sP,e"'Ci31 ~·: !'·' <"'.'.~':'. ~·-l..,•"~-'40\~'U} q "' :_, ·:;,_Cha~llcteristics_~4,t_r)i.,:, .. .i' Estuarine Natural Heritage Wetland Bog Mature Forest Old Growth Forest Coastal Lae:oon lnterdunal None of the above ~)~~~ X Denressional X Riverine Lake-frinl!e Slone Flats Freshwater Tidal Check if unit has multiple HGM classes oresent SP2. Has the wetland unit been documented as habitat/or any State listed Threatened or Endangered animal species? For the purposes of this rating system, "documented" means the wetland is on the appropriate state database. Note: Wetlands with State listed plant species are cate orized as Cate o I Natural Herita e Wetlands see . 19 of data form . SP3. SP4. Does the wetland unit have a local significance in addition to its functions? For example, the wetland has been identified in the Shoreline Master Program, the Critical Areas Ordinance, or in a local mana ement Ian as havin s ecial si nificance. III X X X To complete the next part of the data sheet you will need to detennine the Hydrogeomomhic Class of the wetland being rated. The hydrogeom:,rphic classification groops wetlands in to lhase that fimction in similar way.;. This simplifies lhe questions needed to answer how well the wetland fimctions. The Hydrogoomrnphic Clas; ofa wetland can be detennined using the key below. Seep. 24 for more detailed instructions on clas.sifying wetlands. Wetland Rating Form·-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW·definitions Oct. 2008 Page 1 of9 Wetland name or number Wetland A Classification of Vegetated Wetlands for Western Washington If the hydrolcigic criteria liste"il iri each HUestion do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit with mump·1erHaM·c1a·s~e~',fri'fth~·.6~~e;,idJntiJy ~hich hydro10'J3iC c~heria in queStions t-7 apply, and go to Questions. 1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides (i.e. except during floods)? · lill2J-go to 2 YES -the wetland class is Tidal Fringe If yes, is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)? YES -Freshwater Tidal Fringe NO -Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine) lf your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands. lf it is a Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is rated as an Estuarine wetland Wetlands that were call estuarine in the first and second editions of the rating system are cailed Salt Water Tidal Fringe in the Hydrogeomorphic Classification. Estuarine wetlands were categorized separately in the earlier editions, and this separation is being kept in this revision. To maintain consistency between editions, the tern, "Estuarine" wetland is kept. Please note, however, that the characteristics that define Category I and II estuarine wetlands have changed (see P· ). 2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is only source (>90%) of water to it. Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit. lill2J-go to 3 YES -The wetland class is Flats If your wetland can be classified as a "Flats" wetland, use the form for Depressional wetlands. 3. Does the entire wetland meet both of the following criteria? ___ The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of pennanent open water (without any vegetation on the surface) where at least 20 acres (Sha) in size; ___ At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 (2 m)? IN§!-go to 4 YES -The wetland class is Lake-fringe (Lacustrine Fringe) 4. Does the entire wetland meet all of the following criteria? ___ The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual). The water flows through the wetland in one direction (unidirectional) and usually comes from seeps. It may ---flow subsurface, as sheetflow, or in a swale without dis.tinct banks. ___ The water leaves the wetland without being impounded? NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these types of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow de ressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 foot deep). 0 -go to 5 YES -The wetland class is Slope 5. Does the entire wetland meet all of the following criteria? 6. 7. 8. ___ The unit is in a valley or stream channel where it gets inundated by overbank flooding from that stream or river. ___ The overbank flooding occurs at least once every two years. NOTE: The riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding .. !N§)-go to 6 YES -The wetland class is Riverine Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at some time of the year. This means that any outlet, if present is hi her than the interior of the wetland. NO -o to 7 ES -The wetland class is De ressionaI Is the entire wetland located in a very flat area with no obvious depression and no overban,k flooding. The unit does not pond surface water more than a few inches. The unit seems to be maintained by high groundwater in the area. The wetland may be ditched, but has no obvious natural outlet. No go to 8 YES -The wetland class is Depressional Your wetland unit seems to be difficult to classify and probably contains several different HGM classes. For example, seeps at the base of a slope may grade into a riverine floodplain, or a small stream within a depressional wetland has a zone offlooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF nIE HYDROLOGlC REGIMES DESCRIBED IN QUESTIONS 1-7 APPLY TO DIFFERENT AREAS IN THE UNIT (make a rough sketch to help you decide). Use the following table to identify the appropriate class to use for the rating system if you have several HGM classes present within your wetland. NOTE: Use this table only if the class that is recommended in the second column represents 10% or more of the total area of the wetland unit being rated. If the area of the class listed in column 2 is less than IO% of the uni~ classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area. }i!Jlli-JGN/._GJb~ith"fnT{H~ilaMi,;J;Tii(b~'ili'r/'?'at'ell~ &\;Zi l.t~l.,~:·; }lfGM:ClaSS"to'· Ule.''./11' Rdfi/it/ · 7{''''. ·: ~.·:'·P-!i Slone+ Riverine Riverine Slone+ Denressional Deoressional Slone+ Lake-frinoe Lake-frinee Denressional + Riverine alono stream within boundarv Denressional + Lake~frinoe Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other class of freshwater wetland Denressional Denressional Treat as ESTUARINE under wetlands with special characteristics Wetland Rating Fofl'!l-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 2 of9 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Wetland name or number Wetland A Dl D2 • D3 e s a .. a la eun s Does the wetland have the potential to improve water qu_ality? D 1.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland: O•D (0111)' l sci:'iri ._.-'.P1:=r ~oX}' '.,-'A'·. ·.'",'.,? ,\ (see p.38) • Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it (no outlet) ........................................... loomts = 31 Figure~ • Unit has an intermittently flowing, OR highly constricted, permanently flowing outlet ........ points= 2 • Unit has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet (permanently flowing) ....... points= 1 • Unit is a "flat" depression (Q.7 on key), or in the Flats class, with permanent surface 3 outflow and no obvious natural outlet and/or outlet is a man-made ditch ..................... ~ ..... points= I (ff ditch is not vermanentlv flowine treat unit as "intermittent/li nowine") Provide ohoto or drawine D 1.2 The soil 2 inches below the surface (or duff layer) is clay or organic (use NRCS definitions) YES points -4 NO points -0 D 1.3 Characteristics of persistent vegetation (emergent, shrub, and/or forest Cowardin class): • Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation>= 95% of area (Himalayan blackberry) ....... IIJomts = 5) Figure~ • Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation>= 1/2 of area .............................................. points= 3 • Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation>= 1/10 of area ............................................... points= I • Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation< 1/10 of area ................................................ points= 0 5 Mao of Cowardin vel!etation classes D 1.4 Characteristics of seasonal pondmg or mundatrnn: This is the area of the wetland that is ponded for at least 2 months, but dries out sometime during the year. Do not count the area that is permanently Figure ~ ponded. Estimate area as the average condition 5 out of JO years. • Area seasonally ponded is> 1/2 total area of wetland .......................................................... points= 4 • Area seasonally ponded ~s ~ 1/4 total area of wetland .......................................................... ~oints,: 2 o • Area seasonally ponded 1s 1/4 total area of wetland .......................................................... _omts -OI Man of Hvdroneriods __ _ Add the noints in the boxes above r 8 , Total for D I Does the wetland have the opportunity to improve water quality? Answer YES if you know or believe there arc pollutants in groundwater or surface water coming into the wetland that would otherwise reduce water quality in streams, lakes or groundwater downgradient from the wetland? Note which of the following conditions provide the sources of pollutants. A unit may have pollutants coming from several sources, but any single source would qualify as opportunity. __ Grazing in the wetland or within 150 ft __ Untreated stormwater discharges to wetland Tilled fields or orchards within 150 ft. of wetland __ A stream or culvert discharges into wetland that drains developed areas, residential areas, farmed fields, roads, or clear-cut logging __ Residential, urban areas, golf courses are within 150 ft. of wetland __ Wetland is fed by groundwater high in phosphorus or nitrogen Other ------------~~~------------------!Nol multiplier is 1 YES multiplier is 2 TOTAL Water Oualitv Functions Multiolv the score from DI bv D2; then add score to table on o. 1 HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS ,;-:Jndifators·:thafWetlarid iifiit fohctions to ·rcdUCe flcfodirfo and sfreaiTfdel!radcitiOn. Does the wetland have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion? D 3.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland unit • Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it (no outlet) ......................................... [)omts = 4[ • Unit has an intermittently flowing, OR highly constricted permanently flowing outlet ......... points= 2 • Unit is a "flat" depression (Q.7 on key) or in the Flats class, with permanent surface outflow and no obvious natural outlet and/or outlet is a man-made ditch ........................... points= 1 (If ditch is not permanently flowing treat unit as "intermittently flowing") • Unit has an unconstricted. or sli2htlv constricted. surface outlet lnermanentlv flowinal ....... ooints = 0 D 3.2 Depth of storage during wet periods. Estimate the height of ponding above the bottom of the outlet. For units with no outlet measure from the surface of permanent water or deepest part (if dry). • Marks of ponding are 3 ft. or more above the surface or bottom of the outlet ...................... points = 7 • The wetland is a "headwater" wetland .................................................................................. points= 5 • Marks of ponding between 2 ft. to < 3 ft. from surface or bottom of outlet ........................... points = 5 • Marks are at least 0.5 ft. to< 2 ft. from surface or bottom of outlet ...................................... points= 3 • Wetland is flat (yes to Q.2 or Q.7 on key)but has small depressions on the surface that trap water noints = I • Marks ofnondinl! less than 0.5 ft ........................................................................................ .lnomts = 01 D 3.3 Contributrnn of wetland umt to storage in the watershed: Estimate the ratio of the area of upstream basin contributing surface water to the wetland to the area of the wetland unit itself. • The area of the basin is less than 10 times the area of unit .................................................... points = 5 • The area of the bas~n ~s IO to 100 times .the area of the unit .................................................. :oints,: 3 • The area of the basm 1s more than I 00 times the area of the umt.. ...................................... )Q.otnts -OI ----(seep. 44) Multiplier l 8 (see p.46) 4 0 0 1---+----·~E~n~t~ir~e~u~n~i~t ~is~i~n~t~h~e~F~L=A=T~S~c~l~a~ss~ .. ~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~·-~ .. ~ .. ~ .. ~ .. ~--~"~"~"~"~"~"~"~ .. ~· n~,o~i~n~ts~-~s~. ----. Total for D 3 Add the voints in the boxes above 4 • .__ .... __________ ...;;;;,,.;;.;., ___________________________ == .. ---...r Wetland Rating Forrn -Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 3 of9 . Wetland name or number Wetland A ----------------------------------------------... ---D 4 Does the wetland have the opportunity to reduce flooding and erosion? (seep. 49) • Answer YES if the unit is in a location in the watershed where the flood storage, or reduction in water velocity, it provides helps protect downstream property and aquatic resources from flooding or excessive and/or erosive flows. Answer NO if the water coming into the wetland is controlled by a structure such as flood gate, tide gate, flap valve, reservoir etc. OR you estimate that more than 90% of the water in the wetland is from groundwater in areas where damaging groundwater flooding does not occur. Note which of the following indicators of opportunity apply. Wetland is in a headwater of a river or stream that has flooding problems. Wetland drains to a river or stream that has flooding problems Wetland has no outlet and impounds surface runoff water that might otherwise flow into a river or Multiplier stream that has flooding problems Other l YES multiplier is 2 ic Functions Multi D4; then add score to table on . 1 4 H t Does the wetland have the potential to provide habitat for many species? HU H 1.2 H 1.3 H 1.4 Vegetation structure (see P. 72): F. Check the types of vegetation classes present (as defined by Cowardin)-Size threshold/or each class is igure 1/4 acre or more than 10% of the area if unit is smaller than 2.5 acres. __ Aquatic Bed __ Emergent plants __ Scrub/shrub (areas where shrubs have> 30% cover) __x Forested (areas where trees have> 30% cover) If the unit has a forested class check if: __ The forested class has 3 out of5 strata (canopy, sub-canopy, shrubs, herbaceous, moss/ground- cover) that each cover 20% within the forested polygon. Add the number of vegetation types that qualify. If you have: 4 structures or more ....... points = 4 2 structures.................... oints = 1 Hydroperiods (seep. 73): Map of Cowardin vegetation classes 3 structures................... oints = 2 I structure . ........... ........ 01nts = Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime has to cover more than I 0% of the wetland or J/4 acre to count (see text for descriptions of hydroperiods). Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present points= 3 X Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 or more types present.. .... ~oints = 2 Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present. .................. ojnts = 11 X Saturated only · I type present .................... pomts = 0 Permanently flowing stream or river in, or adjacent to, the wetland Seasonally flowing stream in, or adjacent to, the wetland Lake-fringe wetland .............••.. = 2 points Freshwater tidal wetland ......... = 2 points Map of hydroperiods Richness of Plant Species (seep. 75): Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft 2 (different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold) You do not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian Mi/foil, reed canarygrass, purple loosestrife, Canadian Thistle. If you counted: > 19 species ...................... points= 2 5 -19 species.................... oints = I List species below if/.ou want to: < 5 species........................ 01nts = Wetland is dominate by Himalayan blackberry, with some salmon berry in one lobe, but red a der ts alon ed e. Interspersion of Habitats (seep. 76): Decided from the diagrams below whether interspersion between Cowardin vegetation (described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats) is high, medium, low, or none. 0 Figure_ 0 Wetland Rating Fann-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 4 of9 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Wetland name or number Wetland A Note: lfyou have 4 or more classes Figure_ or 3 vegetation classes and H2 open water, the rating is None = 0 poinLc; tow 1::: I point Moderate = 2 points always "high". Use map of Cowardin classes. ( riparian hraidi.:d channels] Hih..-3 in H 1.5 Special Habitat Features (seep. 77): Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number of points you put into the next column. _x_ Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland(> 4 in. diameter and 6 ft. long) ..ls._ Standing snags (diameter at the bottom> 4 inches) in the wetland Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft. (2m) and/or overhanging vegetation extends at least 3.3 ft. (lm) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the unit, for at least 33 ft. (I Om) Stable steep banks of fine material that might be used by beaver or muskrat for denning (> 30 degree slope) OR signs of recent beaver activity are present (cut shrubs or trees that have not yet turned grey/brown) At least l/4 acre of thin-stemmed persistent vegetation or woody branches are present in areas that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians) Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in each stratum of plants NOTE: The 20% stated in early printings of the manual on page 78 is an error. Does the wetland have the opportunity to provide habitat for many species? H 2.1 Buffers (see P. 80): Choose the description that best represents condition of buffer of wetland unit. The highest scoring criterion that applies to the· wetland is to be used in the rating. See text for definition of "undisturbed". 100m (330 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water > 95% of circumference. No structures are within the undisturbed part of buffer (relatively undisturbed also means no grazing, no landscaping, no daily human use) ............. points= 5 100m (330 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water > 50o/o circumference .................................................................................................... points= 4 __x__ 50m (170 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water > 95% circumference .................................................................................................... fpoints = 41 100m (330 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water > 25% circumference .................................................................................................... points= 3 50m ( 170 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water for> 50% circumference .............................................................................................. points= 3 If buffer docs not meet any of the criteria above: No paved areas (except paved trails) or buildings within 25m (80 ft) of wetland> 95% circumference. Light to moderate grazing or lawns are OK .................................. points= 2 No paved areas of buildings within 50m of wetland for> 50% circumference. Light to moderate grazing or lawns are OK ............ : ...................................................... points= 2 Heavy grazing in buffer ................................................................................................ points= 1 Vegetated buffers are< 2m wide (6.6 ft) for more than 95% circumference (e.g. tilled fields, paving, basalt bedrock extend to edge of wetland) ............................. points-0 Buffer does not meet any of the criteria above .............................................................. points= 1 Arial photo showing buffers H 2.2 Corridors and Connections (seep. 81) H 2.2.l ls the wetland part ofa relatively undisturbed and unbroken vegetated corridor (either riparian or upland) that is at least 150 ft,. wide, has at least a 3.0% cover of shrubs, forest or native undisturbed prairie, that .connects to estuaries, other wetlands or undisturbed uplands that are at least 250 acres in size? (Dams in riparian corridors, heavily used gravel roads, paved roads, are considered breaks in the corridor). YES -4 points (go to H 2.3) ~ -go to H 2.2.2 H. 2.2.2 Is the wetland part ofa relatively undisturbed and unbroken vegetated corridor (either riparian or upland) that is at least 50 ft. wide, has at least 30% cover of shrubs or forest, and connects to estuaries, other wetlands or uridisturbed uplands that are at least 25 acres in size? OR a Lake- fringe wetland, if it does not have an undisturbed corridor as in the question above? ES -2 oints (go to H 2.3) NO -go to H 2.2.3 Wetland Rating Form -Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 2 4 (only 1 scor er box Figure_ 4 2 Page 5 of9 Wetland name or number Wetland A I H. 2.2.3 Is the wetland: • Within 5 mi (8km) of a brackish or salt water estuary OR • Within 3 miles of a large field or pasture(> 40 acres) OR YES -1 point I • Within 1 mile of a lake greater than 20 acres? NO -o points Comments: 1- I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Wetland Rating Fonn-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06}, updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 6 of9 I I 1 I Wetland name or number Wetland A I 'I H 2.3 Near or adjacent to other Qriority habitats listed by WDFW (see p. 82): (see new and complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in which they can be found, in the PHS report htt~://wdfw. wa.~ovlhabl~hslist.htm) I Which of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft. (IOOm) of the wetland unit? NOTE: the connections do not have to be relatively undisturbed. __ Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 0.4 ha (1 acre). __ Biodiversity Areas and Corridors: Areas of habitat that are relatively important to various species of native fish and wildlife (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 152). __ Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock. __ Old-growth/Mature forests: (Old-growth west of Cascade crest) Stands of at· least 2 tree species, fonning a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 20 trees/ha (8 trees/acre)> 81 cm (32 in) I dbh or> 200 years of age. (Mature forests) Stands with average diameters exceeding 53 cm (21 in) dbh; crown cover may be less that 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of snags, and quantity of large downed inaterial is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80 -200 years old west of the Cascade crest. __ Oregon white Oak: Woodlands Stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy coverage of the I oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158). _X __ Riparian: The area adjacent to aquatic systems with flowing water that contains elements of both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems which mutually influence each other. __ Westside Prairies: Herbaceous, non-forested plant communities that can either take the fonn of a dry prairie or I a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161). 3 __ Instream: The combination of physical, biological, and chemical processes and conditions that interact to provide functional life history requirements for instream fish and wildlife resources. __ Nearshore: Relatively undisturbed nearshore habitats. These include Coastal Nearshore, Open Coast Nearshore, and Puget Sound Nearshore. (full descriptions of habitats and the definition of relatively undisturbed are in WDFW report: pp. 167-169 ond glossary in Appendix A). __ Caves: A naturally occurring cavity, recess, void, or system of interconnected passages under the earth in soils, rock, ice, or other geological fonnations and is large enough to contain a human. __ Cliffs: Greater than 7.6 m (25 ft) high and occurring below 5000 ft. __ Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.15 -2.0 m (0.5 -6.5 ft), composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentaiy rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May be associated with cliffs. I _x_ Snags and Logs: Trees are considered snags if they are dead or dying and exhibit sufficient decay characteristics to enable cavity excavation/use by wildlife. Priority snags have a diameter at breast height of> 51 cm (20 in) in western Washington and are> 2 m (6.5 ft) in height. Priority logs are> 30 cm (12 in) in diameter at the largest end, and> 6 m (20 ft) long. I If wetland has 3 or more priority habitats= 4 points If wetland has 2 priority habitats~ 13 point~ If wetland has 1 priority habitat= I point No habitats= 0 points Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list. Nearby wetlands are I addressed in question H 2.4) H 2.4 Wetland LandscaQe: Choose the one description of the landscape around the wetland that best fits (seep. 84) • There are at least 3 other wetlands within 1/2 mile, and the connections between them are I I relatively undisturbed (light grazing between wetlands OK, as is lake shore with some boating, but connections should NOT be bisected by paved roads, fill, fields, or other development ......... h,oints = 51 • The wetland is Lake-fringe on a lake with little disturbance and there are 3 other lake-fringe wetlands within 1/2 mile ..................................................................................................... points= 5 5 • There are at least 3 other wetlands within 1/2 mile, BUT the connections between them are disturbed ............................................................................................................................. points= 3 • The wetland fringe on a lake with disturbance and there are 3 other lake-fringe wetlands within 1/2 mile .................................................................................................................... points= 3 I I • There is at least I wetland within l/2 mile ........................................................................... points= 2 • There are no wetlands within 1/2 mile .................................................................................. noints = 0 . ---~ H 2 TOT AL Score -opportunity for providing habitat Add the scores from H2.1, H2.2, H2.3, H2.4 I 14 -I TOTAlforH 1frompage8~ =~=-C • Total Score for Habitat Functions Add the points for H I and H 2; then record the result on p. 1 i 18 I ----· I Comments: I I Wetland Rating Fann -Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 7 of9 Wetland name or number Wetland A .. •. ,,. ,, S- ,ct SC2 SC3 CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS Please determine if the wetland meets the attributes described below and circle the appropriate answers and Category. i.Wetland ;ryjfe., .. ,h.v)·iitJria that appl/,!9thI weilaniJ, Circle the Category When the approfJi-iate r. J·~;{f/:'f,/:f,;•(/"1'ti!2( ·•·< /~ ,X:{'f, /•,If.",;" " i: ;: : ·'t··-·:·.':t::·:., .·t. -.·. . Estuarine wetlands? (see p.86) Does the wetland unit meet the following criteria for Estuarine wetlands? __ The dominant water regime is tidal, --Vegetated, and __ With a salinity greater than 0.5 ppt. ~ YES = Go to SC I.I SC l.l Is the wetland unit within a National Wildlife Refuge, National Park, National Estuary Reserve, Natural Area Preserve, State Park or Educational, Environmental, or Scientific Reserve designated under WAC 332-30-151? YES = Category 1 NO= go to SC 1.2 SC 1.2 Is the wetland at least I acre in size and meets at least two of the following conditions? YES = Category I NO= Category II --The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no dikinp, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing, and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. I the non-native Spartina spp,. are only species that cover more than 10% of the wetland, then the wetland should be given a dual rating (1/11). The area of Spartina would be rated a Category II while the relativei undisturbed upper marsh with native species·would be a Category I. Do not, however, exclu e the area of Spartina in determining the size threshold of I acre. --At least 3/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft. buffer of shrub, forest, or un-grazed or un-mowed grassland The wetland has at least 2 of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with open water, --or contiguous freshwater wetlands. Natural Heritage Wetlands (seep. 87) Natural Heritage wetlands have been identified by the Washington Natural Heritage Program/DNR as either high quality undisturbed wetlands or wetlands that support state Threatened, Endangered, or Sensitive plant species. SC 2.1 ls the wetland being rated in a Section/Township/Range that contains a natural heritage wetland? (This question is used to screen out most sites before you need to contact WNHPIDNR.) S/T/R information from Appendix D or accessed from WNHP/DNR web site X YES __ Contact WNHP/DNR (seep. 79) and go to SC 2.2 ~ SC 2.2 Has DNR identified the wetland as a high quality undisturbed wetland or as a site with state threatened or endangered plant species? YES = Category I NO not a Heritage Wetland Bogs (seep. 87) Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation in bogs? Use the key below to identify if the wetland is a bog. lfyo11 answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland based on its function. I. Does the unit have organic soil horizons (i.e. layers of organic soil), either peats or mucks, that compose 16 inches or more of the first 32 inches of soil profile? (See Appendix 8 for a field key to identify organic soils)? YES= go to question 3 ~goto question 2 2. Does the wetland have organic soils, either peats or mucks that are less than 16 inches deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic ash, or that are floating on a lake or pond? YES = go to question 3 ~ = is not a bog for purpose of rating 3. Does the unit have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground level, AND other plants, if present, consist of the "bog" species listed in Table 3 as a significant component of the vegetation (more than 30% of the total shrub and herbaceous cover consists of species in Table 3)? YES = ls a bog for purpose of rating NO= go to question 4 NOTE: If you are uncertain about the extent of mosses in the understory you may substitute that criterion by measuring the pH of the water that seeps into a hole dug at least 16" deep.' If the pH is less than 5.0 and the "bog" plant species in Table 3 are present, the wetland is a bog. 4. Is the unit forested(> 30% cover) with sitka spruce, subalpine fir, western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Englemann's spruce, or western white pine. WITH any of the species (or combination of species) on the bog species plant list in Table 3 as a significant component of the ground cover (> 30% coverage of the total shrub/herbaceous cover)? YES = Category I NO = Is not a bog for purpose of rating Wetland Rating Fenn -Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 I I I I I Cat. I I Cat. I Cat. II I Dual Rating I 1/11 I I I Cat I I I I I I Cat. I I I Page 8 of9 I I Wetland name or number Wetland A I ,C4 Forested Wetlands (seep. 90) Does the wetland have at least 1 acre of forest that meet one of these criteria for the Department of Fish and Wildlife's forests as priority habitats? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland I based on its function. --Old-growth forests: (west of Cascade Crest) Stands of at least two three species forming a . multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/acre (20 trees/hectare) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height (dbh) of 32 inches (81 cm or I more). NOTE: The criterion for dbh is based on measurements for upland forests. Two-hundred year old trees in wetlands will often have a smaller dbh because their growth rates are often slower. The DFW criterion is and "OR" so old-growth forests do not necessarily have to have trees of this diameter. I --Mature forests: (west of the Cascade Crest) Stands where the largest trees are 80 -200 years old OR have an average diameters (dbh) exceeding 21 inches (53 cm); crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of snags, and quantity oflarge downed material is generally I less than that found in old-growth. Cat. I YES = Category I li«i! = not a forested wetland with special characteristics ,cs Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons (seep. 91) Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon? --The wetland lies in a depression adjacent to marine waters that is wholly or partially separated I from marine waters by sandbanks, gravel banks, shingle, or, less frequently, rocks. --The lagoon in which the wetland is located contains surface water that is saline or brackish {> 0.5 ppt) during most of the year in at least a portion of the lagoon (needs to be measured near the I bottom.) YES= Go to SC 5.1 ~ ___ not a wetland in a coastal lagoon SC 5. I Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions? --The wetland is relatively undis.turbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing) and has I less than 20% cover of invasive plant species (see list of invasive species on p. 74). --At least 3/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a I 00 ft. buffer of shrub, forest, or un-grazed or un-mowed grassland. Cat. I __ The wetland is larger than 1/10 acre (4350 square ft.) I YES = Category I NO = Category II Cat. II SC6 lnterdunal Wetlands (seep. 93) ls the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland Ownership or I WBUO)? YES= Go to SC 6.1 ~ ___ not an interdunal wetland for rating I/you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions. In practical terms that means the following geographic areas: I • Long Beach Peninsula --lands west of SR 103 • Grayland-Westport --lands west of SR 105 • Ocean Shores-Copalis-lands west of SR 115 and SR 109 SC 6.1 ls the wetland one acre or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is one acre or larger? YES = Category II NO =goto SC 6.2 Cat. II I SC 6.2 ls the wetland between 0.1 and 1 acre, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and I acre? YES= Category Ill Cat. Ill Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics I • Choose the "highest" rating if wetland falls into several categories, and record on p . I. lfyou answered NO for all types enter "Not Applicable" on p. 1 NA Comments: I I I I I Wetlan~ Rating Form -Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 9 of9 WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM -Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast.Region Project Site: Fawcett Parcel City/County: King Sampling Date: 3-21-11 Applicant/Owner: lnvestigator(s}: Parcel No.: 3224059043 Scott Swarts State: WA Sampling Point DP 1 Wet. A Section, Township, Range: S 32, T24N, RSE Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.): Floodplain !,.at Local relief (concave, convex, none): concave Subregion (LRR): A Soil Map Unit Name: Norma sandy loam Are climatic/ hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes Are Vegetation 181, Soil D, Or Hydrology 0. significantly disturbed? Are Vegetation D. Soil D, Or Hydrology D, naturally problematic? Long: Datum: llll No NWI classification: 0 (If no, explain in Remarks.) Are "Normal Circumstances" present? (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS -Attach site map showing sampling point locations transects, important features, etc. Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes llll No D Hydric Soil Present? Yes llll No D Is the Sampling Area within a Wetland? Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes llll No D Slope(%): O -2 NA Yes llll No Yes llll No D D Remarks: Area has been historically graded and cleared. Although mature cottonwood along stream channel and other native trees (alder and maple) are present, the understory Is dominated by Himalayan blackberry, Japanese knotweed, and reed canarygrass. Some native shrubs are present. Some clusters of FACW species are present but these areas lacked hydrology. VEGETATION -Use scientific names of olants Tree Stratum (Plot Size: 10) Absolute Dominant Indicator Dominance Test Worksheet: li2ru ~ ~ 1. Red alder (Alnus rubra} 30 Yes FAC Number of Dominant Species That Are 1 (A) 2. OBL, FACW, or FAC: 3. Total Number of Dominant Species Across 2 (8) 4. All Strata: = Total Cover Percent of Dominant Species Thal Are 50 (A/8) Saplioo!Shrub Stratum (Plot Size: 5) OBL, FACW, or FAC: 5. Beaked hazelnut (Corylus cornuta) 45 Yes FACU Prevalence Index worksheet: 6. Total% Cover of: Mullipl~ b~: 7. OBL species x1 = 8. FACW species x2 = 9. FAC species x3 = c Total Cover FACU species x4 = Herb Stratum (Plot Size: 5) UPL species xS = 10. Himalayan blackberry (Rubus annenfacus) 20 Yes FACU Column Totals: (A) (8) 11. Prevalence Index = 8/A = 12. Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators: 13. Dominance Test is >50% 14. Prevalence Index is !;3.01 15. Morphological Aclaptations1 (Provide supporting data in 16. Remarks or on a separate sheet) 17. Wetland Non-Vascular Plants 1 18. Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation, (Explain) 19. 20. 1lndicalors of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be present, = Total Cover unless disturbed or problematic. yYoog~ Vine §tratum (Plot Size: ) 1. 2. = Total Cover Hydrophytlc Vegetation % Bare Ground in Herb Stratum 90 Present? Yes llll No D Remarks: Disregard beaked hazelnut as It Is rooted on upland "hill" whlle wetland Is at base. Hazelnut Is overhanging DP 1. Red alder along edges. Wetland interior dominated by Himalayan blackberry. Wetland Is small and isolated, situated within low area. OP 1 is In the lowest area where water ponds, and most of the ground In this spot Is bare. US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valley, and Coast-Interim Version I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Project Site: Fawcett SOIL Samnlinn Point DP 1 Wet. A Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the Indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.) I ·I Depth Matrix Redox Features (inches) Color (moist) % Color (Moist) % Type1 Loc 2 Texture Remarks --------- 0-8 10YR 2/1 85 SYR 3/4 15 C M Silt loam Some sand I 8-14 10YR 3/1 80 SYR 3/4 20 C M Sandy sill More sand 14+ gleyed Gray sand I I 1Type: C= Concentration, D=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Coverad or Coated Sand Grains. 2Location: PL=Pore lining, M=Matrix Hydrlc Soll Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils3: D Histosol (A 1) D Sandy Redox (S5) D 2 cm Muck (A10) I D Hislic Epipedon (A2) D Stripped Matrix (S6) D Red Parent Material (TF2) D Black Histic (A3) D Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except MLRA 1) D Other (Explain in Remarks) D Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) D Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) D Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11) D Depleted Matrix (F3) I D Thick Dark Surface (A12) 181 Redox Dark Surface (F6) D Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1) D Depleted Dark Surface (F7) 3lndicators of hydrophytic vegetation and wetland D Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) D Redox Depressions (F8) hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or nroblematic. I Restrictive Layer (If present): Type: Depth (Inches): Hydrlc Salls Present? Yes 181 No D Remarks: I I HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: I Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply) Secondary Indicators (2 or more required) D Surface Water (A1) 181 Water-Stained Leaves (B9) D Water-Stained Leaves (89) D High Water Table (A2) (except MLRA 1, 2, 4A, and 48) (MLRA 1, 2, 4A, and 48) I 181 Saturation (A3) D Salt Crust (B 11) D Drainage Patterns (B10) D Water Marks (81) D Aquatic Invertebrates (813) D Dry-Season Waler Table (C2) D Sediment Deposits (B2) D Hydrogen SUifide Odor (C1) D Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9) D Drift Deposits (83) D Oxidized Rhizospheres along Living Roots (C3) D Geomorµh(c Position (02) I D Algal Mat or Crust (B4) D Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) D Shallow Aquitard (03) D Iron Deposits (B5) D Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6) D FAC-Neutral Test (05) D Surface Soil Cracks (86) D Stunted or Stresses Plants (01) (LRR A) D Raised Ant Mounds (06) (LRR A) I D Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (87) D Other (Explain in Remarks) D Frost-Heave Hummocks (07) 181 Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes D No 181 Depth (inches): I Water Table Present? Yes 181 No D Depth (inches): 7 Saturation Present? Yes 181 No D Depth (inches): surface Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes 181 No D (includes capillary fringe) D8scribe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available: I Remarks: I US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valley, and Coast-Interim Version · I WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM -Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region Fawcett Parcel City/County: King Sampling Date: 3-21-11 Project Site; ApplicanVOwner: lnvestigator(s): Parcel No.: 3224059043 Scott Swarts State: WA Sampling Point: OP 2 Wet. A Section, Township, Range: S 32, T24N, RSE Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.): Floodplain Lat: local relief (concave, convex, none): concave Subregion (LRR): A Soil Map Unit Name: Norma sandy loam Are climatic/ hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year? Yes Are Vegetation 0. Soil 0, Or Hydrology D, significantly disturbed? Are Vegetation 0. Soil D. Or Hydrology D. naturally problematic? Long: Datum: NWI classification: No D {If no, explain in Remarks.) Are "Normal Circumstances" present? (If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS -Attach site map showing sampling point locations transects, Important features etc . Hydrophytic Vegetation Present? Yes D No 181 Hydric Soil Present? Yes D No 181 Is the Sampling Area within a Wetland? Welland Hydrology Present? Yes D No 181 Sl9pe (%): O -2 NA Yes No Yes D No D 181 Remarks: Upland plot near Wetland A under old growth beaked hazelnut ..•• Island with one big hazelnut in middle surrounded by a ring of sword fern In what Is otherwise a sea of mostly Hlmalayan blackberry. VEGETATION -Use scientific names of nlants Tree Stratum {Plot Size: 10) Absolute Dominant Indicator Dominance Test Worksheet: ~ ~ ~ 1. Red alder {Alnus rubra) 15 No FAC Number of Dominant Species That Are 0 (A) 2. OBL, FACW, or FAC: 3. Total Number of Dominant Species Across 1 (B) 4. All Strata: = Total Cover Percent of Dominant Species That Are 100 (A/B) Sapling/Shrub Stratum (Plot Size: 5) OBL, FACW, or FAC: - 5. Beaked hazelnut (Co,ylus cornuta) 100 Yes FACU Prevalence Index worksheet: 6. Total% CQver of; Multii;ili b~t 7. OBL species x1 = 8. FACW species x2 = 9. FAC species x3 = = Total Cover FACU species x4 = Herb Stratum (Plot Size: 5) UPL species x5 = 10. Column Totals: (A) (B) 11. Prevalence Index = 8/A = 12. Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators: 13. Dominance Test is >50% 14. Prevalence Index is ~3.01 - 15. Morphological Adaptations 1 (Provide supporting data in 16. Remarks or on a separate sheet) 17. Wetland Non-Vascular Plants 1 18. Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation 1 (Explain) 19. 20. 1 lndicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must be present, = Total Cover unless disturbed or problematic. yYQQg~ Vjne §tral!dm {Plot Size: ) 1. 2. = Total Cover Hydrophytlc Vegetation % Bare Ground in Herb Stratum 90 Present? Yes D No 181 Remarks: Moss US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valley, end Coast-Interim Version I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Project Site: Fawcett SOIL Samr linn Point: DP 2 Wet. A I Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or conflnn the absence of indicators.) I Depth Matrix Redox Features (inches) Color (moist) % Color (Moist) % Type' Loe' Texture Remarks --------- 0-3 10YR 3/2 100 M Silt loam Some sand I 3-16+ 10YR 3/3 65 M Silt loam Other 35% sand clusters 10YR 4/4 I I 1Type: C= Concentration, O=Depletion, RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains. 2Location: PL=Pore lining, M=Matrix . Hydrlc Soll Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils3: D Histosot (A 1) D Sandy Redox (S5) D 2 cm Muck (A10) I D Histic Epipedon (A2) D Stripped Matrix (S6) D Red Parent Material (TF2) D Black Histic (A3) D Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except MLRA 1) D Other (Explain in Remarks) D Hydrogen Sulfide (A4) D Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2) D Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11) D Depleted Matrix (F3) I D Thick Dark Surface {A12) D Redox Dark S(!rface {F6) D Sandy Mucky Mineral (S1) D Depleted Dark Surface (F7) 3 1ndicators of hydrophytic vegetation and wetland D Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4) D Redox Depressions (F8) hydrology must be present, unless disturbed or nroblemalic. I Restrictive Layer (If present): Type: Depth (Inches): Hydrlc Soils Present? Yes D No 181 Remarks: I I HYDROLOGY Wetland Hydrology Indicators: I Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply) Secondary Indicators (2 or more required) D Surface Water (A 1) D Water-Stained Leaves (B9) D Water-Stained Leaves (89) D High Water Table (A2) (except MLRA 1, 2, 4A, and 4B) (MLRA 1, 2, 4A, and 4B) I D Saturation (A3) D Salt Crust (B11) D Drainage Patterns (810) D Water Marks (B 1) D Aquatic Invertebrates (813) D Dry-Season Water Table (C2) D Sediment Deposits (82) D Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1) D Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9) D Drift Deposits (83) D Oxidized Rhizospheres along living Roots (C3) D Geomorphic Position (D2) I D Algal Mat or Crust (84) D Presence of Reduced Iron (C4) D Shallow Aquitard (D3) D Iron Deposits (B5) D Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6) D FAG-Neutral Test (D5) D Surface Soil Cracks (86) D Stunted or Stresses Plants {D1) (LRR A) D Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A) I D Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (87) D Other (Explain in Remarks) D Frost-Heave Hummocks (D7) D Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (88) Field Observations: Surface Water Present? Yes D No 181 Depth (inches): I Water Table Present? Yes D No 181 Depth (inches): Saturation Present? Yes D No 181 Depth (inches): Wetland Hydrology Present? Yes D No 181 (includes capillary fringe) Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitoring well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available: I Remarks: Upland data plot elevated above wetland. I US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valley, and Coast-Interim Version I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Wetland name or number ---------------------- B _____ _ WETLAND RATING FORM -WESTERN WASHINGTON Version 2 -Updated July 2006 to increase accuracy and reproducibility among users Updated Oct. 2008 with the new WDFW definitions for priority habitats Name of wetland (ifknown): ____ W-'--'--'e'-'t,,la,,,n"'d'--'B"---'-("-o'-'ff"-s"i.,,te,.,) ____________ Date of site visit: __ ~3-~2~1_-~l l~ Rated by: _____ ~S=c~o=tt~S=w=a~rt=s ___ _ Trained by Ecology? Yes __ No ___ Date oftraining: __ ~l~l_-~15~-~0~6- SEC: __ ~3=2 __ TWNSHP:_~24~N~ RNGE:_=5E~-ls S/T/R in Appendix D? Yes ____ No X Map of wetland unit: Figure _______ Estimated size _____ _ SUMMARY OF RATING Category based on FUNCTIONS provided by wetland: -----II _____ lll_~X~- Category 1 = Score > 70 Category II = Score 51 -69 Category Ill = Score 30 -50 Category IV= Score < 30 Score for Water Quality Functions Score for Hydrologic Functions Score for Habitat Functions TOT AL Score for Functions 22 10 15 47 IV ___ _ Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTCS of Wetland -----II _____ Does not apply __ =X~-- Final Category (choose the "highest'; category from above") c Wetland Old Growth Forest Coastal La oon Interdunal None of the above X Freshwater Tidal Check if unit has multiple HGM classes resent in~aildition Jo~tlie.1 rotection-r.ecommendcd}for,,iits cate or X pn SPl. Has the wetland unit been documented as a habitat/or any Federally listed Threatened or Endangered animal or plant species (TIE species)? For the purposes of this rating system, Hdocumented" means the wetland is on the appropriate state or federal database. SP2. Has the wetland unit been documented as habitat for any State listed Threatened or Endangered animal species? For the purposes of this rating system, "documented" means the wetland is on the appropriate state database. Note: Wetlands with State listed plant species are cate orized as Cate o l Natural Herita e Wetlands see . 19 of data form. SP3. SP4. Does the wetland unit have a local significance in addition to its functions? For example, the wetland has been identified in the Shoreline Master Program, the Critical Areas Ordinance, or in a local mana ement Ian as havin s ecial si nificance. X X X X To complete the next part of the data sheet you will need to determine the Hydrogeomomhic Class of the wetland being rated. The hydrogeorroiphic classification groups wetlands in lo !hose !hat fimction in similar ways. This simplifies the questions needed lo answer howwell lhe wedand functions. The Hydrogeomorphic Class of a we&nd can be determined using 1he key below. Seep. 24 for mere detailed irntroctions on classifying wetlands. Wetland Rating Fonn-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page I of 8 L Wetland name or number B ____ _ Classification of Vegetated Wetlands for Western Washington If th.e hydrologic.critefla listed in e~ch question donot apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit with mii'ltlJ)fe~HdKtci~~~~~s1f:ITi'ftlii'ftb?fS;~;#id~Otfry ~hi~h''h}'1i~010gic C~itefia in questiofls 1-7 apply. and go to Question 8. , I. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides (i.e. except during floods)? ~ -go to 2 YES -the wetland class is Tidal Fringe If yes, is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)? YES -Freshwater Tidal Fringe NO -Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine) If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetl~ds. If ii is a Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is rated as an Estuarine wetland Wetlands that were call estuarine in the first and second editions of the rating system are called Salt Water Tidal Fringe in the Hydrogeomorphic Classification. Estuarine wetlands were categorized separately in the earlier editions, and this separation is being kept in this revision. To maintain consistency between editions, the tenn "Estuarine" wetland is kept. Please note, however, that the characteristics that define Category I and II estuarine wetlands have changed (see P· )· 2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is only source (>90%) of water to it. Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit. ~ -go to 3 YES -The wetland class is Flats If your wetland can be classified as a "Flats" wetland, use the form for Depressional wetlands. 3. Does the entire wetland meet both of the following criteria? ___ The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any vegetation on the surface) where at least 20 acres (Sha) in size; ___ At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 (2 m)? IR9]-go to 4 YES -The wetland class is Lake-fringe (Lacustrine Fringe) 4. Does the entire wetland meet all of the following criteria? Yes The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual). Yes The water flows through the wetland in one direction (unidirectional) and usually comes from seeps. It may flow subsurface, as sheetflow, or in a swale without distinct banks. No The water leaves the wetland without being impounded? NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these types of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow de ressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 fl diameter and less than 1 foot deep). 0 -go to 5 YES -The wetland class is Slo e 5. Does the entire wetland meet all of the following criteria? No The unit is in a valley or stream channel where it gets inundated by overbank flooding from that stream or river. No The overbank flooding occurs at least once every two years. NOTE: The riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.. NO -go to 6 YES -The wetland class is Riverine 6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at some time of the year. This means that any outlet, if present is higher than the interior of the wetland. IR9]-go to 7 YES -The wetland class is Depression al 7. Is the entire wetland located in a very flat area with no obvious depression and no overbank flooding. The unit does not pond surface water more than a few inches. The unit seems to be maintained by high groundwater in the area. The wetland may be ditched, but has no obvious natural outlet. ffi-go to 8 YES -The wetland class is Depressional 8. Your wetland unit seems to be difficult to classify and probably contains several different HOM classes. For example, seeps at the base of a slope may grade into a riverine floodplain, or a small stream within a depressional wetland has a zone of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE HYDRO LOGIC REGIMES DESCRJBED IN QUESTIONS 1-7 APPLY TO DIFFERENT AREAS IN TIIE UNIT (make a rough sketch to help you decide). Use the following table to identify the appropriate class to use for the rating system if you have several HOM classes present within your wetland. NOTE: Use this table only if the class that is recommended in the second column represents I 0% or more of the total area of the wetland unit being rated. If the area of the class listed in column 2 is less than I 0% of the unit, classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area. fjfJfffGMIGlasses_,withlnf'ihe,we_tl'3n'ti .T!nit'(li~TiTrl!rOml .m -,,8;.if,;!'HGMC/ass'to'.Use'in~Rci'/in'li:)'. '-':'!~ ,,,~ ::· ', ,.,· Slone+ Riverine Riverine Slone + Denresslonal Deoressional Slope+ Lake-fringe Lake-fringe Depressional + Riverine along stream within boundary Depressional Deoressional + Lake-frine:e Deoressional Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other class of Treat as ESTUARINE under wetlands with special freshwater wetland characteristics Wetland Rating Form-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 2 of8 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Wetland name or number B _____ _ I Denr."'""iuna n Ela edan Hom . \V'~~T_?~.{~y,iti;.±Y _FlJ~R!IO~i-·:. ~-'i,~~,i~lf\Wft'~~t:;;H?,}f!iJ?i_i~1's t~ r~f EoY~' ;pt~~-:r~~~fity t:;· j'., ,\·:-, .. :\·,;. :\{~"· _ (Oflly'l i£0rt . .; ·:pefbO~) ·:: I DI Does the wetland have the J!Otential to improve water quality? (see p.38) Dl.l Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland: • Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it (no outlet) ........................................... ~oints = 3 Figure_ • Unit has an intermittently flowing, OR highly constricted, permanently flowing outlet ........ oints = 21 I • Unit has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet (permanently flowing) ....... points= I • Unit is a "flat" depression (Q.7 on key), or in the Flats class, with permanent surface 2 outflow and no obvious natural outlet and/or outlet is a man-made ditch ........................... points= 1 (If ditch is not nermanentlv flowinr_r treat unit as "interrnittentlv flowinr_r "J Provide ohoto or drawinu I D 1.2 The soil 2 inches below the surface (or duff layer) is clay!iiiilorganic (use NRCS definitions) 0 YES ooints = 4 O ooints = 0 D 1.3 Characteristics of persistent vegetation (emergent, shrub, and/or forest Cowardin class): Figure_ • Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation>= 95% of area ............................................... loomts = SI • Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation > = 1 /2 of area ................................................. points = 3 I . Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation>= 1/10 of area ............................................... points= l • Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation < 1/10 of area .................................................. points = 0 5 Mao of Cowardin ve2etation classes D 1.4 Characteristics ot seasonal ponding or mundation: This is the area of the wetland that is ponded for at least 2 months, but dries out sometime during the year. Do not count the area that is permanently Figure_ I ponded. Estimate area as the average condition 5 out of JO years. . Area seasonally ponded is> 1/2 total area of wetland .......................................................... fi,oints = 4\ • Area seasonally ponded is> 1/4 total area of wetland .......................................................... points= 2 . 4 • Area seasonally ponded is< 1/4 total area of wetland ...... . .... ....................................... _ ...... points= 0 I Mao of Hvdrooeriods r----Total for D 1 Add the voints in the boxes above _ lJ __ D2 Does the wetland have the opportunity to improve water quality? (seep. 44) I Answer YES if you know or believe there are pollutants in groundwater or surface water coming into the wetland that would otherwise reduce water quality in streams, lakes or groundwater downgradient from the wetland? Note which of the following conditions provide the sources of pollutants. A unit may have pollutants corning from several sources, but any single source would qualify as opportunity. --Grazing in the wetland or within 150 ft I ~ Untreated stormwater discharges to wetland --Tilled fields or orchards within 150 ft. of wetland --A stream or culvert discharges into wetland that drains developed areas, residential areas, farmed fields, roads, or clear-cut logging Multiplier ...L Residential, urban areas, golf courses are within 150 ft. of wetland I --Wetland is fed by groundwater high in phosphorus or nitrogen --Other i iYEsl multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is 1 • TOTAL Water Ouali"' Functions Multinlv the score from DI bv D2· then add score to table on o. I 22 I ·•··· ,-iHYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS~ Il1dicato-rs·th.it-Wdl<lh'd iibit-funCtic'.ins to·rediiCe flOcidinf! ririd stream de!!i'a~datiOn. D3 Does the wetland have the (!Otential to reduce flooding and erosion? (see p.46]. D 3.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland unit I . Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it (no outlet) ........................................... Jiioints = 4 • Unit has an intermittently flowing, OR highly constricted permanently flowing outlet ......... 01nts -21 . Unit is a "flat" depression (Q.7 on key) or in the Flats class, with permanent surface 2 outflow and no obvious natural outlet and/or outlet is a man-made ditch ........................... points= I I (1/ ditch is not permanently flowing treat unit as "intermittently flowing") • Unit has an unconstricted. or slig_htlv constricted. surface outlet inermanentlv flowiw.,1 ....... noints -0 D 3.2 Depth of storage during wet periods. Estimate the height of ponding above the bottom of the outlet. For units with no outlet measure from the surface of permanent water or deepest part (if dry). I • Marks of ponding are 3 ft. or more above the surface or bottom of the outlet ....................... points= 7 • The wetland is a "headwater" wetland .................................................................................. points= 5 3 • Marks of ponding between 2 ft. to< 3 ft. from surface or bottom of outlet.. ......................... ~oints = 5 • Marks are at least 0.5 ft. to< 2 ft. from surface or bottom of outlet. ..................................... omts = 31 I I • Wetland is flat (yes to Q.2 or Q.7 on key)but has small depressions on the surface that trap water points= 1 • Marks of ponding less than 0.5 ft.. ....................................... : ............................................... ooints = 0 D 3.3 Contribut10n of wetland unit to stora~e in the watershed: Estimate the ratio oJ the area oJ upstream basin contributing surface water tot e wetland to the area of the wetland unit itself. . The area of the basin is less than 10 times the area of unit.. .................................................. points= 5 0 • The area of the bas~n ~s 10 to 100 times .the area of the unit .................................................. Jiioints: 3 . The area of the basm 1s more than 100 times the area of the umt.. ....................... : ................ 01nts-OI . Entire unit is in the FLATS class ......................................................................................... noints = 5 Add the points in the boxes above• ----. Total for D 3 _.J._..J I I Wetland Rating Form-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 3 of8 Wetland name or number B ____ _ I ----D4 Does the wetland have the opportunity to reduce flooding and erosion? (seep. 49) Answer YES if the unit is in a location in the watershed where the flood storage, or reduction in water velocity, it provides helps protect downstream property and aquatic resources from flooding or excessive and/or erosive flows. Answer NO if the water coming into the wetland is controlled bh a structure such as flood frate, tide gate, flap valve, reservoir etc. OR you estimate that more than 90% oft e water in the wetland is rom groundwater in areas where damaging groundwater flooding does not occur. Note which of the following indicators of opportunity apply. __ Wetland is in a headwater of a river or stream that has flooding problems. I I __ Wetland drains to a river or stream that has flooding problems __ Wetland has no outlet and impounds surface runoff water that might otherwise flow into a river or Multiplier stream that has flooding problems K Other Water is from imQervious surfaces. No downstream flooding I but downstream anuatic resources and sedimentation nroblems at stream delta. i IYESI multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is 1 • TOTAL -Hvdrologic Functions Multiply the score from D3 by D4; then add score to table on o. 1 10 I I . I l n .}ff:'•' ,"'X:,0-, '-OF:· _.,.,.,,;_.;,pi,' ~;<'•.'.'1.&-lo: ;\1\1'.''f,··'·' -·".;,'"':•. ,<J\';.'.<··'.'.<'Y{_;,.'<° ~;'~' '_· (only l_scon :'!HABITAT FUNCTI iCa'tors that wctlalld fu'fictirinS to'··proVide.important habitat. '-.. ,:. ,,;.,, h,, ',,., . .;)tl>'.'H~'W , .. ,,." ' ,-"'. . ' . '' ' •," . '· '· per box) I HI Docs the wetland have the potential to provide habitat for many species? H I.I Vegetation structure (see P. 72): Figure Check the types of vegetation classes present (as defined by Cowardin)-Size threshold/or each class is -I //4 acre or more than 10% of the area if unit is smaller than 2.5 acres. __ Aquatic Bed __x Emergent plants __x Scrub/shrub (areas where shrubs have> 30% cover) I __x Forested (areas where trees have> 30% cover) If the unit has a forested class check if: 2 __ The forested class has 3 out of 5 strata (canopy, sub-canopy, shrubs, herbaceous, moss/ground- cover) that each cover 20% within the forested polygon. Add the number of vegetation types that qualify. I/you have: Map of Cowardin vegetation classes 4 structures or more ....... points = 4 3 structures ................... fDomts -21 2 structures .................... ooints = I l structure .................... nomts = 0 H 1.2 Hydroperiods (seep. 73): Figure_ Check the types of water regimes (hydro periods) present within the wetland. The water regime has to I I cover more than I 0% of the wetland or I /4 acre to count (see text for descriptions of hydro periods). __ Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present ~oints = 3 _x Seasoi:ially flooded or in1:1ndated 3 or more types present. ..... o!nts -21 _x Occasionally flooded or mundated 2 types present.. ................. pomts -1 __x Saturated only 1 ty{.e present .................... points= 0 --Permanently flowing stream or river in, or adjacent to, the wet and 2 --Seasonally flowing stream in, or adjacent to, the wetland --Lake-fringe wetland ................. = 2 points --Freshwater tidal wetland ......... = 2 points Map of hydropcriods I I H 1.3 Richness of Plant SQecies (seep. 75): Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft 2 (different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold) You do not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian Mi/foil, reed canarygrass, purple I, loosestrife, Canadian Thistle. If you counted: > 19 specie~ ...................... goints :_ 2 I 5 -19 species .................... 01nts -ii List species below if you want to: < 5 species ........................ pomts -0 I H 1.4 Interspersion of Habitats (seep. 76): Decided from the diagrams below whether interspersion between Cowardin vegetation (described in Hl.l), or I the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats) is high, medium, low, or none. I I I Wetland Rating Form-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WOFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page4of8 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Wetland name or number B _____ _ Note: If you have 4 or more classes Figure_ or 3 vegetation classes and H2 open water, the rating is None "" 0 poinLc; Low "' 1 point Moderate "' 2 points always "high". Use map ofCowardin classes. .. . . ~,;)~ "'•Ii!!<.iiil';.~,. / (riparian hmid1:d channels] H 1.5 Special Habitat Features (seep. 77): Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number of points you put into the next column. _x Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland(> 4 in. diameter and 6 ft. long) ____x Standing snags (diameter at the bottom> 4 inches) in the wetland Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft. (2m) and/or overhanging vegetation extends at least 3.3 ft. (lm) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the unit, for at least 33 ft. (!Om) Stable steep banks of fine material that might be used by beaver or muskrat for denning (> 30 degree slope) OR si~ns of recent beaver activity are present (cut shrubs or trees that have not yet turned grey/brown) ____x_ At least 1/4 acre of thin-stemmed persistent vegetation or woody branches arc present in areas that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures/or egg-laying by amphibians) __ Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in each stratum of plants NOTE: The 20% stated in early printings of the manual on page 78 is an error. Does the wetland have the opportunity to provide habitat for many species? H 2.1 Buffers (see P. 80): Choose the description that best represents condition of buffer of wetland unit. The highest scoring criterion that applies to the wetland is to be used in the rating. See text/or definition of "undisturbed". 100m (330 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water ' > 95% of circumference. No structures are within the undisturbed part of buffer (relatively undisturbed also means no grazing, no landscaping, no daily human use) ............. points= 5 IOOm (330 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water > 50o/o circumference .................................................................................................... points= 4 50m ( 170 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water > 95% circumference .................................................................................................... points= 4 1 OOm (330 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water > 25% circumference .................................................................................................... points= 3 50m (170 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or open water for> 50% circumference .............................................................................................. points= 3 If buffer does not meet any of the criteria .above: No paved areas (except paved trails) or buildings within 25m (80 ft) of wetland> 95% circumference. Light to moderate grazing or lawns are OK .................................. points= 2 No paved areas of buildings within 50m of wetland for> 50% circumference. Light to moderate grazing or lawns are OK ................................................................... points= 2 Heavy grazing in buffer ................................................................................................ points= 1 ...x_ Vegetated buffers are< 2m wide (6.6 ft) for more than 95% circumference (e.g. tilled fields, paving, basalt bedrock extend to edge ofwetland) ............................. IPoints = O! __ Buffer does not meet any of the criteria above .............................................................. points= 1 Arial photo showing buffers H 2.2 Corridors and Connections (seep. 81) H 2.2. l Is the wetland part of a relatively undisturbed and unbroken vegetated corridor ( either riparian or upland) that is at least 150 ft. wide, has at least a 30% cover of shrubs, forest or native undisturbed prairie, that connects to estuaries, other wetlands or undisturbed uplands that are at least 250 acres in size? (Dams in riparian corridors, heavily used gravel roads, paved roads, are considered breaks in the corridor). YES= 4 points (go to H 2.3) ~=go to H 2.2.2 H. 2.2.2 Is the wetland part of a relatively undisturbed and unbroken vegetated corridor (either riparian or upland) that is at least 50 ft. wide, has at least 30% cover of shrubs or forest, and connects to estuaries, other wetlands or undisturbed uplands that are at least 25 acres in size? OR a Lake· fringe wetland, if it does not have an undisturbed corridor as in the question above? YES= 2 points (go to H 2.3) =goto H 2.2.3 Wetland Rating Fonn -Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 3 9 (only 1 scor er box Figure_ 0 Page 5 of8 Wetland name or number B ____ _ I H. 2.2.3 Is the wetland: • Within 5 mi (8km) of a brackish or salt water estuary OR • Within 3 miles of a large field or pasture(> 40 acres) OR !vEs! = I point I • Within 1 mile of a lake greater than 20 acres? NO= 0 points H 2.3 Near or adjacent to other griority habitats listed by WDFW (seep. 82): (see new and complete I descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in which they can be found, in the PHS report ht!J2.:llwdti:,,. wa.gov!habl~hslist.htm) Which of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft. (100m) of the wetland unit? NOTE: the connections do not have to be relatively undisturbed. I __ Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 0.4 ha (I acre). __ Biodiversity Areas and Corridors: Areas of habitat that are relatively important to various species of native fish and wildlife (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 152). __ Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock. I __ Old-growth/Mature forests: (Old-growth west of Cascade crest) Stands of at least 2 tree species, forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 20 trees/ha (8 trees/acre)> 81 cm (32 in) dbh or> 200 years of age. (Mature forests) Stands with average diameters exceeding 53 cm (21 in) dbh; crown cover may be less that l 00%; decay, decadence, numbers of snags, and quantity of large downed material is I generally less than that found in old-growth; 80 -200 years old west of the Cascade crest. __ Oregon white Oak: Woodlands Stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy coverage of the oak component is important (Juli descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158). __ Riparian: The area adjacent to aquatic systems with flowing water that contains elements of both aquatic and I terrestrial ecosystems which mutually influence each other. __ Westside Prairies: Herbaceous, non-forested plant communities that can either take the form ofa dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161). 0 __ lnstream: The combination of physical, biological, and chemical processes and conditions that interact to I provide functional life history requirements for instrealTI fish and wildlife resources. __ Nearshore: Relatively undisturbed nearshore habitats. These include Coastal Nearshore, Open Coast Nearshore, and Puget Sound Nearshore. (full descriptions of habitats and the definition of relatively undisturbed are in WDFW report: pp. 167-/69 and glossary in Appendix A). I __ Caves: A naturally occurring cavity, recess, void, or system of interconnected passages under the earth in soils, rock, ice, or other geological formations and is large enough to contain a human. __ Cliffs: Greater than 7.6 m (25 ft) high and occurring below 5000 ft. I __ Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.15 -2.0 m (0.5 -6.5 ft), composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May be associated with cliffs. __ Snags and Logs: Trees arc considered snags if they are dead or dying and exhibit sufficient decay characteristics to enable cavity excavation/use by wildlife. Priority snags have a diameter at breast height of> 51 cm (20 in) in I western Washington and are> 2 m (6.5 ft) in height. Priority logs are> 30 cm (12 in) in diameter at the largest end, and> 6 m (20 ft) long. If wetland has 3 or more priority habitats= 4 points If wetland has 2 priority habitats= 3 points If wetland has I priority habitat -I point !No habitats -0 point~ I Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list. Nearby wetlands are addressed in auestion H 2.4) H 2.4 Wetland Landscan:e: Choose the one description of the landscape around the wetland that best fits (seep. 84) I • There are at least 3 other wetlands within 1/2 mile, and the connections between them are relatively undisturbed (light grazing between wetlands OK, as is lake shore with some boating, but connections should NOT be bisected by paved roads, fill, fields, or other development.. ....... ~oints = 51 I . The wetland is Lake.fringe on a lake with little disturbance and there are 3 other lake.fringe wetlands within 1/2 mile ..................................................................................................... points= 5 5 • There are at least 3 other wetlands within 1 /2 mile, BUT the connections between them are disturbed ............................................................................................................................. points= 3 I . The wetland fringe on a lake with disturbance and there are 3 other lake.fringe wetlands within 1/2 mile ............................................................................................................. :······Points = 3 • There is at least I wetland within 1/2 mile ........................................................................... points= 2 I . There are no wetlands within 1/2 mile .................................................................................. noints = 0 H 2 TOTAL Score -opportunity for providing habitat Add the scores from H2.l, H2.2, H2.3, H2.4. -6--. TOTAL for H 1 from page 8 j -----1 -l--{ • Total Score for Habitat Functions Add the points for H l and H 2; then record the result on p. 1 15 ---~ Comments: I I Wetland Rating Fann-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 6 of8 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Wetland name or number B _____ _ SCI SC2 SC3 CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS Please determine if the wetland meets the attributes described below and circle the appropriate answers and Category. Wetland Jr·.· e · .Che2k'~Jfan criieriii'iiidi'a'·,•t lo'1ize:tii'e,1a'ii'd .. :,c;;:c/e the'.'o&te'7i ·when · ··~. ·" ·· · ·1· };~·i ~ ', ' .-. '·*''':''" -<~ -,)".P ' '>'/~"'i·<J< .",,Hy.,.' -'"'i"''"re"!~""; ,.,,_~, .PP,,Y,);i,·,_ic,•s:,,•r"'/;f: ',),;, _,,, " .,.,.:-:,,,.)"'IP' -__,,i,.,-r,,_,.,., .. ,,,fJ,\-ry _,_.,,_ ,,r,•s.• -~('§'.;,}~' :_.;p;/· .·,f;:;:;/ ,',_::·,~; r:'.-"' critei-iiiaremet. · . ,i·,,; .o: .. Y ;:o::;,,: /f'''.,):':·,:'.!,,;F .. r,.,',.., :,., ·>.·,'!! · ·' .. :;,:, ·> · ,.,,, ,. . ·. ,, ·:,:,: Estuarine wetlands? (see p.86) <' Does the wetland unit meet the following criteria for Estuarine wetlands? '\. . >. __ The dominant water regime is tidal, i ·>_'! --Vegetated, and ,,,,. ' With a salinity greater than 0.5 ppt. ,, .·•, -- YES -Go to SC 1.1 ~ " ,-_,., SC I. I ls the wetland unit within a National Wildlife Refuge, National Park, National Estuary Reserve, Natural Area Preserve, State Park or Educational, Environmental, or Scientific Reserve designated under WAC Cat. I 332-30-151? . YES -Category I NO = go to SC 1.2 SC 1.2 Is the wetland at least I acre in size and meets at least two of the following conditions? YES -Category I NO= Category II Cat. I --The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no dikinf, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing, and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. I the non-native Spartina sPJ:.·· are only species Cat. II that cover more than 10% of the wetland, then the wetland should be given a ua\ rating (I/11). The area of Spartina would be rated a Category II while the relatively undisturbed upper marsh with native species would be a Category l. Do not, however, exclude the area of Spartina in determininf the size threshold of I acre. Dual --At least 3/ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft. buffer of shrub, forest, or un-grazed Rating or un-mowed grassland 1/11 --The wetland has at least 2 of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands. Natural Heritage Wetlands (seep. 87) Natural Heritage wetlands have been identified by the Washington Natural Heritage Prograrn/DNR as either high quality undisturbed wetlands or wetlands that support state Threatened, Endangered,. or Sensitive plant species. SC 2.1 Is the wetland being rated in a Section/Township/Range that contains a natural heritage wetland? (This question is used to screen out most sites before you need to contact WNHPIDNR.) S/T/R information from Appendix D or accessed from WNHP/DNR web site X YES __ Contact WNHP/DNR (seep. 79) and go to SC 2.2 ~ SC 2.2 Has DNR identified the wetland as a high quality undisturbed wetland or as a site with state threatened or endangered plant species? Cat I YES = Category I NO not a Heritage Wetland Bogs (seep. 87) Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation in bogs? Use the key below to identify if the wetland is a bog. If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland based on its function. . I. Does the unit have organic soil horizons (i.e. layers of organic soil), either peats or mucks, that compose 16 inches or more of the first 32 inches of soil profile? (See Appendix B for a field key to identify organic soils)? YES= go to question 3 ~=go to question 2 2. Does the wetland have organic soils, either peats or mucks that are less than 16 inches deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic ash, or that are floating on a lake or pond? YES = go to question 3 ~ = is not a bog for purpose of rating 3. Does the unit have more than 70% cover of mosses· at ground level, AND other plants, if present, consist of the "bog" species listed in Table 3 as a significant component of the vegetation (more than 30% of the total shrub and herbaceous cover consists of species in Table 3)? YES = Is a bog for purpose of rating NO= go to question 4 NOTE: If you are uncertain about the extent of mosses in the understory you may substitute that criterion by measuring the pH of the water that seeps into a hole dug at least 16" deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the "bog" plant species in Table 3 are present, the wetland is a bog. 4. Is the unit forested(> 30% cover) with sitka spruce, subalpine fir, western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Englemann's spruce, or western white pine. WITH any of the species (or combination of species) on the bog species plant list in Table 3 as a significant component of the ground cover(> 30% coverage of the total shrub/herbaceous cover)? Cat. I YES = Category I NO = Is not a bog for purpose of rating Wetland Rating Form-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 7 of8 Wetland name or number B ____ _ I SC4 Forested Wetlands (seep. 90) Does the wetland have at' least l acre of forest that meet one of these criteria for the Department of Fish and Wildlife's forests as priority habitats? Jfyou answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland I based on its function. --Old-growth forests: (west of Cascade Crest) Stands of at least two three species forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/acre (20 trees/hectare) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height ( dbh) of 32 inches (81 cm or I more). NOTE: The criterion for dbh is based on measurements for upland forests. Two-hundred year old trees in wetlands will often have a smaller dbh because their growth rates are often slower. The DFW criterion is and "OR" so old-groWth forests do not necessarily have to have trees of this diameter. I --Mature forests: (west of the Cascade Crest) Stands where the largest trees are 80 -200 years old OR have an average diameters (dbh) exceeding 21 inches (53 cm); crown cover may be less than I 00%; decay, decadence, numbers of snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth. Cat. I YES = Category I liiol = X not a forested wetland with special characteristics scs Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons (seep. 91) Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon? I I --The wetland lies in a depression adjacent to marine waters that is wholly or partially separated from marine waters by sandbanks, gravel banks, shingle, or, less frequently, rocks. --The lagoon in which the wetland is located contains surface water that is saline or brackish(> 0.5 ppt) during most of the year in at least a portion of the lagoon (needs to be measured near the I bottom.) ~ __ X_ not a wetland in a coastal lagoon YES= Go to SC 5.1 SC 5.1 Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions? __ The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing) and has I Jess than 20% cover of invasive plant species (see list of invasive species on p. 74). --At least 3/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft. buffer of shrub, forest, or un-grazed or un-mowed grassland. Cat. I --The wetland is larger than 1/10 acre (4350 square ft.) I YES = Category I NO = Category II Cat. II SC6 lnterdunal Wetlands (seep. 93) ls the wetland west of the 1889 _line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland Ownership or I WBUO)? YES= Go to SC 6.1 ~ __ X_ not an interdunal wetland for rating If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions. In practical terms that means the following geographic areas: I • Long Beach Peninsula --lands west of SR 103 • Gray land-Westport --lands west of SR 105 • Ocean Shores-Copalis -lands west of SR 115 and SR l 09 SC6.I Is the wetland one acre or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is one acre or larger? YES = Category II NO =goto SC 6.2 Cat. II I' SC 6.2 Is the wetland between 0.1 and 1 acre, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and I acre? YES = Category Ill Cat. III Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics I • Choose the "highest" rating if wetland falls into several categories, and record on p. J . If you answered NO for all types enter "Not Applicable" on p. I NA Comments: I I I I I Wetland Rating Fonn-Western Washington, Version 2 (7/06), updated with new WDFW definitions Oct. 2008 Page 8 of8 I