HomeMy WebLinkAboutRS_Environmental_Assessment_Report_210420_v1ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT REPORT
MADSEN CREEK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
CITY OF RENTON
Prepared for
City of Renton Surface Water Utility
Prepared by
Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
Note:
Some pages in this document have been purposely skipped or blank pages inserted
so that this document will copy correctly when duplexed.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT REPORT
MADSEN CREEK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
CITY OF RENTON
Prepared for
City of Renton Surface Water Utility Engineering
Contact: Joe Farah, PE
1055 South Grady Way
Renton, Washington 98057
Telephone: 425-430-7293
and
Watershed Science & Engineering Inc.
Contact: Jeff Johnson, PE
506 Second Avenue, Suite 2700
Seattle, Washington 98104
Telephone: 206-521-3000
Prepared by
Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
Contact: Shelby Petro, PWS
2200 Sixth Avenue, Suite 1100
Seattle, Washington 98121
Telephone: 206-441-9080
September 14, 2018
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CONTENTS
Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................................................ v
Introduction....................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Project Setting ......................................................................................................................................................... 1
Objectives.................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Methods and Materials ................................................................................................................................................. 7
Review of Available Information....................................................................................................................... 7
Wetland Delineation and Reconnaissance ................................................................................................... 7
Wetland Classification, Rating, and Functional Assessment .................................................................. 8
Wetland Classification .............................................................................................................................. 8
Wetland Rating ........................................................................................................................................... 9
Wetland Functional Assessment .......................................................................................................... 9
Precipitation Evaluation ........................................................................................................................... 9
Stream Delineation .............................................................................................................................................. 10
Stream Classification ........................................................................................................................................... 10
Stream Habitat Assessment ............................................................................................................................. 14
Physical Stream Habitat ......................................................................................................................... 14
Fish Passage ............................................................................................................................................... 14
Floodplain Conditions ............................................................................................................................ 15
Riparian Habitat Conditions ................................................................................................................. 15
Upland Habitat Characterization ........................................................................................................ 15
Results ............................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Analysis of Available Information .................................................................................................................. 17
Previously Mapped Wetlands and Streams ................................................................................... 17
Documented Fish and Wildlife Habitat Use ................................................................................... 19
Precipitation Data .................................................................................................................................... 20
Soils ............................................................................................................................................................... 20
Wetland Delineation and Reconnaissance Results .................................................................................. 22
Wetland Delineations ............................................................................................................................. 22
Wetland Reconnaissance ...................................................................................................................... 24
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Evaluation of Wetland Functions ................................................................................................................... 54
Wetland A ................................................................................................................................................... 54
Wetlands B and C ..................................................................................................................................... 56
Wetlands D, E, and F ............................................................................................................................... 56
Wetlands G, H, and I ............................................................................................................................... 57
Stream Delineation and Reconnaissance Results .................................................................................... 58
Stream Habitat Assessment Results .............................................................................................................. 60
Physical Stream Habitat Conditions .................................................................................................. 60
Fish Passage ............................................................................................................................................... 62
Floodplain Conditions ............................................................................................................................ 63
Riparian Habitat Conditions ................................................................................................................. 64
Upland Habitat Assessment and Wildlife Use ............................................................................... 65
Regulatory Implications .............................................................................................................................................. 67
Clean Water Act Sections 404 and 401 ........................................................................................................ 67
Washington State Laws ...................................................................................................................................... 68
City of Renton Code ............................................................................................................................................ 68
King County Code ................................................................................................................................................ 70
References........................................................................................................................................................................ 71
APPENDICES
Appendix A Wetland Delineation Methods
Appendix B Stream Habitat Assessment Methods
Appendix C Wetland Rating Forms and Figures
Appendix D Wetland Delineation Data Forms
Appendix E Stream Habitat Assessment Results
Appendix F Photographic Log
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TABLES
Table ES-1. Wetlands Delineated in Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area. ................... vi
Table ES-2. Stream Classifications and Buffer Widths in the Madsen Creek Improvement
Project Study Area. ............................................................................................................................. vii
Table 1. Stream Reaches in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area. .................... 12
Table 2. Fish Species Mapped in or near the Study Area for the Madsen Creek
Improvement Project. ........................................................................................................................ 19
Table 3. Precipitation Characteristics Inferred in the Study Area Preceding Field
Investigations. ...................................................................................................................................... 20
Table 4. Wetlands Delineated in Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area. .................. 23
Table 5. Summary for Wetland A. .................................................................................................................. 43
Table 6. Summary for Wetland B. .................................................................................................................. 45
Table 7. Summary for Wetland C. .................................................................................................................. 47
Table 8. Summary for Wetland D. .................................................................................................................. 48
Table 9. Summary for Wetland E. .................................................................................................................. 49
Table 10. Summary for Wetland F.................................................................................................................... 50
Table 11. Summary for Wetland G. .................................................................................................................. 51
Table 12. Summary for Wetland H................................................................................................................... 52
Table 13. Summary for Wetland I..................................................................................................................... 53
Table 14. Individual Wetland Function Scores for Wetlands in the Madsen Creek
Improvement Project Study Area. ................................................................................................ 55
Table 15. Summary of Madsen Creek Characteristics in the Study Area. ......................................... 59
Table 16. Stream Classifications and Buffer Widths in the Madsen Creek Improvement
Project Study Area. ............................................................................................................................. 69
FIGURES
Figure 1. Vicinity Map for the Madsen Creek Improvement Project. ................................................... 2
Figure 2. Site Map for the Madsen Creek Improvement Project. .......................................................... 3
Figure 3. Stream Reaches and Stream Habitat Survey Site Locations in the Madsen
Creek Improvement Project. ........................................................................................................... 13
Figure 4. Previously Mapped Wetlands, Streams, and Habitats in the Madsen Creek
Improvement Project Study Area. ................................................................................................ 18
Figure 5. Mapped Soils in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area. ......................... 21
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Figure 6. Key to Wetland, Stream, and Buffer Figures 6-1 to 6-8 in the Madsen Creek
Improvement Project Study Area. ................................................................................................ 25
Figure 6-1. Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project
Study Area. ............................................................................................................................................ 27
Figure 6-2. Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project
Study Area. ............................................................................................................................................ 29
Figure 6-3. Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project
Study Area. ............................................................................................................................................ 31
Figure 6-4. Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project
Study Area. ............................................................................................................................................ 33
Figure 6-5. Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project
Study Area. ............................................................................................................................................ 35
Figure 6-6. Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project
Study Area. ............................................................................................................................................ 37
Figure 6-7. Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project
Study Area. ............................................................................................................................................ 39
Figure 6-8. Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project
Study Area. ............................................................................................................................................ 41
Figure 7. Vegetative Communities in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study
Area. ......................................................................................................................................................... 66
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report describes the methods and results of a wetland and stream delineation and stream
habitat assessment for the Madsen Creek Improvement Project in accordance with current
federal, state, and local regulations and guidance. Madsen Creek is a perennial, fish-bearing
stream that is a tributary of the Cedar River. To address flooding and sedimentation issues
resulting from development in the Madsen Creek drainage basin, King County completed
several modifications to the Madsen Creek channel in the 1970s and 1980s including channel
realignment, construction of a sediment basin, construction of a high-flow channel, and other
stream channel modifications. Despite these historical modifications, flooding still occurs both
north and south of State Route 169 and on the east side of 149th Avenue Southeast and
adjacent residential properties. Furthermore, the Madsen Creek Channel constructed in
Ron Regis Park can no longer convey its design flow due to sedimentation within the channel.
The City of Renton (City) has received a King County Flood Control District Flood Reduction
Grant to identify and evaluate existing conditions at the downstream end of the Madsen Creek
drainage basin; survey the drainage basin; develop and evaluate alternatives for flood
improvements; and prepare preliminary designs of the preferred alternative. The study area is
located within the city of Renton and within unincorporated King County.
Wetland scientists from Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc. (Herrera) conducted a wetland
assessment in accordance with the Regional Supplement to the US Army Corps of Engineers
Wetlands Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Environmental
Laboratory 2010), which is consistent with the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation
Manual (Environmental Laboratory 1987).
In June and July 2018, Herrera delineated nine wetlands in the study area (Table ES-1).
Wetland A is a large, complex depressional and riverine wetland associated with the Cedar River
and Madsen Creek. Wetlands B and C are depressional wetlands, and Wetlands D, E, F G, H,
and I are riverine wetlands associated with Madsen Creek.
The ordinary high water mark (OHWM) of streams within the study area was delineated using
the definition in City of Renton Code and according to methods in the publication Determining
the Ordinary High Water Mark for Shoreline Management Act Compliance in Washington State
(Anderson et al. 2016). Herrera scientists flagged the OHWM of the Madsen Creek low-flow
channel within the delineation study area (Table ES-2) in June and July of 2018.
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Table ES-1. Wetlands Delineated in Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
Wetland
Name
Size of Wetland
(square feet/acre)
USFWS
Classificationb
Hydrogeomorphic
Classificationc
Ecology Rating
Category
(2004/2014)
City of Renton
Standard Buffer
Width
(feet)d
King County
Standard Buffer
Width
(feet)e
Wetland A –a PEM, PSS, PFO Depressional, Riverine II | II 225 200
Wetland B –a PSS, PFO Depressional NA | II 100 NA
Wetland C –a PSS, PFO Depressional, Slope NA | II 100 NA
Wetland D 2,785/0.64 PSS, PFO Riverine NA | I 150 NA
Wetland E 562/0.01 PFO Riverine II | II 150 100
Wetland F 322/0.01 PEM, PSS Riverine NA | II 150 NA
Wetland G 53/0.0 PFO Riverine NA | II 150 NA
Wetland H 145/0.0 PFO Riverine NA | II 150 NA
Wetland I –a PSS Riverine NA | II 100 NA
a Wetland extends outside delineation study area and was not delineated in its entirety.
b US Fish and Wildlife Service classification is based on Federal Geographic Data Committee (2013): palustrine emergent (PEM), palustrine scrub-shrub (PSS), palustrine forested (PFO).
c Hydrogeomorphic classification is based on Brinson (1993).
d Wetland A’s buffer width, as determined by Renton’s Shoreline Master Program (RMC 4-3-090.D.d), is based upon wetland category and habitat function. All other wetland buffer
widths are determined by Renton’s critical area regulations and are based upon land uses, wetland rating and habitat score (RMC 4-3-050-G.2).
e King County standard buffers widths are based upon wetland rating score, location, habitat function level, and intensity of adjacent land use (KCC 21A.24.325).
NA = not applicable
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Table ES-2. Stream Classifications and Buffer Widths in the
Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
Name
WDNR
Water Typea
City of
Renton
Water Typeb
King County
Water Typec
City of
Renton
Buffer Width
(feet)d
King County
Buffer Width
(feet)e
Madsen Creek
(low-flow channel)
F F F 115 115
Madsen Creek
(high-flow bypass channel)
F F F 115 115
a The Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) water typing system uses definitions outlined in the Washington
Administrative Code (WAC 222-16-031).
b The City of Renton types streams in accordance with RMC 4-3-050-G.7.a.
c King County stream types are classified in accordance with KCC 21A.24.355.
d Buffer widths classified for streams in Renton (RMC 4-3-050-G.2).
e Buffer widths classified for streams within a UGA in unincorporated King County (KCC 21A.24.358).
Herrera scientists conducted a qualitative stream habitat assessment within the study area in
July 2018, from approximately 100 feet upstream of the sediment basin in Madsen Creek to the
confluence with the Cedar River. Representative portions of each reach were assessed for
physical stream habitat, floodplain, and riparian conditions. Potential fish passage constraints
were assessed. In general, salmonid spawning and rearing habitat were lacking throughout the
study area. Much of the channel substrate does not support spawning; physical stream habitat
complexity was generally poor; functional large woody debris was lacking; banks were unstable;
and floodplain connectivity was limited due to berms and other anthropogenic features
associated with the adjacent development. Riparian vegetation, while dense and providing good
cover, was dominated by invasive species in many reaches and is associated with poor fish cover
and altered stream ecology. Although some portions of Madsen Creek had suitable salmonid
spawning and rearing habitat, those locations were generally fragmented and separated from
other suitable habitat areas by long culverts and sections of poor habitat.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 1
INTRODUCTION
The City of Renton (City) seeks to improve upon existing flooding conditions in the lower
reaches of Madsen Creek where it flows through residential areas and a City park. The City has
received a King County Flood Control District Flood Reduction Grant to investigate existing
conditions, identify and develop alternatives, and design preliminary flood reduction
improvements. The wetland, stream delineation, and stream habitat assessments described in
this report were performed to support the Madsen Creek Improvement Project (hereafter
referred to as the project).
This report describes the conditions of wetlands and streams in the study area, wetland and
stream ratings and required buffer widths per applicable regulations, and stream habitat
conditions.
P ROJECT S ETTING
The project is located in the city of Renton and unincorporated King County, in Sections 22
and 23, Township 23 and Range 05E of the Willamette Meridian (Figure 1). The Madsen Creek
drainage basin is within the Lower Cedar River Watershed and Water Resource Inventory Area
(WRIA) 8: Cedar-Sammamish.
The 43-acre study area encompassed for the assessments described in this report is located at
the base of the hillslope within the Cedar River Valley, and includes both the low flow and high-
flow bypass channels of Madsen Creek from just upstream of the instream sediment basin to the
confluence with the Cedar River and includes the area within 200 feet of the stream channels
(Figure 2). The topography of the study area is generally flat due to its landscape position within
the Cedar River Valley. For the wetland and stream delineations, the study area is further divided
into delineation and reconnaissance study areas, as the more detailed delineation work was
focused within the areas most likely to be impacted by potential future project work. The
delineation portion of the study area includes the two Madsen Creek channels and areas within
200 feet of the channel within Renton city limits: Ron Regis Park, the State Route (SR) 169 right
of way, and the west and south half of the New Life Church property. The reconnaissance
portion of the study area includes King County-owned parcels east of Ron Regis Park and west
of 149th Avenue Southeast, King County-owned parcels east of 149th Avenue Southeast, and
the right of way of 149th Avenue Southeast. Privately owned parcels within the northern half of
the study area were not accessible and were observed from the right of way or from King
County-owned parcels.
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LakeSammamish
Cedar River
Madsen Creek
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Bellevue
Burien
Covington
Issaquah
Kent
Mercer Island
Maple Valley
Newcastle
Renton
Seattle
Sammamish
SeaTac
Tukwila
Pictometry, King County
King County, Aerial (2017)
0 2 41
Miles
Legend
Study area
County boundary
City limits
Stream(King County)
Roads
PACIFIC OCEANOREGON
WASHINGTON
Area of
map detail
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\vicinity_map_letter.mxd
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Figure 1.Vicinity Map for the Madsen CreekImprovement Project.
Cedar River
Madsen Creek High Flow ChannelKing County
Madsen Creek Low Flow Cha
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King County
Ron Regis Park
New LifeChurch
Elliott Bridge ReachMitigation Site
WonderlandEstates
SedimentBasin
Renton
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K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\Fig2_SiteMap_letter.mxd
Figure 2.Site Map for the Madsen CreekImprovement Project.
E
Legend
Delineation study area
Reconnaissance study area
Jurisdiction boundary
Roads
Parcel
Elliott Bridge Reach Mitigation Site
Stream
September 2018
4 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
The study area includes both developed and undeveloped areas. Developed areas consist of
recreational fields, paved roads and driveways, and residential housing. Undeveloped areas are
located north of Ron Regis Park near the Cedar River and areas south of the New Life Church’s
recreation field. Two habitat restoration sites along Madsen Creek are located within the study
area: 1) King County recently constructed the Elliott Bridge Reach Off-Channel Habitat and
Floodplain Reconnection Project mitigation site (King County 2013a, 2017) at the north end of
149th Avenue Southeast amid the Madsen Creek confluence with the Cedar River (Figure 2), and
2)a small restoration site on the New Life Church property is located between the church
recreation field and Madsen Creek near SR 169.
O BJECTIVES
The objectives of the wetland and stream assessments were to:
•Delineate (flag) all wetlands and streams in the delineation study area.
•Identify wetlands and confirm previously delineated wetlands (Herrera 2013) within the
reconnaissance study area.
•Classify vegetation classes within delineated wetlands using the US Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) classification system (Federal Geographic Data Committee 2013).
•Classify all delineated wetlands using the hydrogeomorphic classification system
recognized in Washington State (Brinson 1993).
•Classify all delineated wetlands and assess their functions using the Washington State
Wetland Rating System for Western Washington: 2014 Update (Hruby 2014), which is the
classification system required by Renton Municipal Code (RMC 4-3-050.G.9.c), and the
Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington–Revised (Hruby 2004),
which is the classification system required by King County Code for those wetlands
located within King County jurisdiction (KCC 21A.24.318).
•Determine wetland categories and classes; stream type; and applicable wetland and
stream buffer widths required by RMC 4-3-050.G and KCC 21A.24.325 and
KCC 21A.24.358.
•Characterize upland vegetative habitats.
•Classify all streams within the study area according to the Washington Department of
Natural Resources (WDNR) Forest Practices Water Typing as described in Washington
Administrative Code (WAC) 222-16-031.
•Characterize existing stream habitat conditions.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 5
•Identify existing and potential future use of the available aquatic habitat by key salmonid
species, where possible.
•Identify local, state and federal regulations and guidance applicable to potential flood
improvement project impacts on wetlands, streams, and their buffers.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 7
METHODS AND MATERIALS
Evaluating the presence, extent, and type of wetlands and streams requires a review of available
information about the site (e.g., surveys, studies), followed by onsite delineation of wetlands and
streams. The following sections describe the research methods and field protocols for the
wetland and stream evaluations completed for the project. More information about the
methodology used in the wetland and stream delineation is available in Appendix A.
R EVIEW OF AVAILABLE I NFORMATION
Available literature was reviewed to determine the historical and current presence of wetlands
and streams within and near the study area. Sources of information included:
•Aerial photographs of the study area (USDA 2015; Pictometry International Corp. 2017)
•Topographic map of the study area (King County 2018c)
•National Wetlands Inventory map for the study area (USFWS 2018a)
•King County iMap Interactive Mapping Tool (King County 2018b)
•City of Renton maps (Renton 2018a and 2018b)
•Hydrographic data (stream locations) for King County (King County 2013b)
•Washington State Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) data (WDFW 2018a)
•SalmonScape mapping system (WDFW 2018b)
•Washington Department of Natural Resources Forest Practices Application Review
System (FPARS) (WDNR 2018)
•Climate data (NRCS 2018a)
•Soil survey maps and descriptions for the study area (NRCS 2018b, 2018c, 2018d)
W ETLAND DELINEATION AND RECONNAISSANCE
On June 13, 15, 19, and 26, and July 12 and 13, 2018, wetland scientists from Herrera
Environmental Consultants, Inc. (Herrera) conducted wetland delineations in accordance with the
Regional Supplement to the US Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual: Western
September 2018
8 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Environmental Laboratory 2010, which is consistent with
the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual [Environmental Laboratory 1987]). The
methods in those manuals use a three-parameter approach for identifying and delineating
wetlands and rely on the presence of field indicators for hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils,
and hydrology (Appendix A). The wetland delineation work for the project was performed
according to procedures specified under the routine wetland determination method
(Environmental Laboratory 1987).
To identify potential wetlands, Herrera scientists evaluated field conditions by traversing the
study area and noting apparent wetlands, streams, and other aquatic features. For portions of
the study area where permission to access properties was not provided, Herrera staff evaluated
field conditions by observing them from adjacent, accessible properties.
Within the delineation portion of the study area, a test plot was established for each area that
appeared to have potential wetland characteristics. For each test plot, data on dominant plant
species, soil conditions, and evidence of hydrologic conditions were recorded on wetland
determination data forms (Appendix C). Plants, soils, and hydrologic conditions were also
analyzed and documented in adjacent uplands to each test plot. Based on collected data, a
determination of wetland or upland was made for each area examined. Within the
reconnaissance portion of the study area, wetland conditions were evaluated using the three-
parameter approach, but data was not recorded at test plots, nor were wetland boundaries
flagged.
Following confirmation of wetland conditions within the delineation portion of the study area,
Herrera staff delineated wetland boundaries by placing sequentially numbered, pink-and-black-
striped flagging along the wetland perimeters. Test plot locations were marked with orange
flagging. Wetland boundary flag locations were then surveyed by Pacific Geomatic Services
(PGS). During the field visits to complete the wetland delineations, Herrera scientists also noted
observations of wildlife species and signs of their presence.
W ETLAND C LASSIFICATION, RATING, AND F UNCTIONAL
A SSESSMENT
Wetland Classification
Wetlands observed within the study area were classified according to the USFWS classification
system (Federal Geographic Data Committee 2013), which evaluates attributes including
vegetation class, hydrologic regime, salinity, and substrate. The wetlands were also classified
using a hydrogeomorphic system, which evaluates attributes such as the position of the wetland
within the surrounding landscape, the source and location of water just before it enters the
wetland, and the pattern of water movement in the wetland (Brinson 1993).
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 9
Wetland Rating
Herrera rated the wetlands using the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology)
Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington: 2014 Update (Hruby 2014) for
wetlands within the city of Renton (RMC 4-3-050.G.9.c) and the Washington State Wetland
Rating System for Western Washington–Revised (Hruby 2004) for wetlands within unincorporated
King County (KCC 21A.24.318), both hereafter referred to as the 2014 or 2004 Ecology rating
system. The Ecology rating systems categorize wetlands according to specific attributes such as
rarity; sensitivity to disturbance; hydrologic, water quality, and habitat functions; and special
characteristics (e.g., mature forested wetland or bog). The total score for all functions determines
the wetland rating. The rating system consists of four categories, with Category I wetlands
exhibiting outstanding functions and/or special characteristics and Category IV wetlands
exhibiting minimal attributes and functions. The rating categories are used to identify permitted
uses in the wetland and its buffer, to determine the width of buffers needed to protect the
wetland from impacts related to adjacent development, and to identify the mitigation ratios
required to compensate for potential impacts on wetlands.
Wetland Functional Assessment
Wetland functions are those physical and chemical processes that occur within a wetland, such
as water storage, nutrient cycling, and maintenance of diverse plant communities and habitat
that benefit wildlife. Wetland functions are grouped into three broad categories: water quality,
hydrologic, and habitat (Hruby 2004, 2014).
•Water quality functions include the potential for removing sediment, nutrients, heavy
metals, and toxic organic compounds in the water passing through the wetland.
•Hydrologic functions include reducing the velocity of stormwater, recharging and
discharging groundwater, and providing flood storage.
•Habitat functions include providing food, water, and shelter for fish, shellfish, birds,
amphibians, and mammals. Wetlands also serve as breeding grounds and nurseries for
numerous species.
Precipitation Evaluation
Precipitation characteristics in the weeks and months preceding wetland delineation work are
important to understand with respect to potential for drier or wetter than normal wetland
conditions on the site. The methodology used for the antecedent precipitation evaluation is
described in Appendix A. Precipitation data were obtained from the Natural Resources
Conservation Service WETS database (NRCS 2018a). The historical average measurements were
based on data collected in Washington (WETS Station Seattle Tacoma Intl AP, Latitude 47.4444
degrees, Longitude 122.3138 degrees) for the period of record 1981 to 2010. The Seattle
Tacoma Intl AP station is approximately 7 miles west of the study area.
September 2018
10 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
S TREAM D ELINEATION
On June 13, 15, 19, and 26, 2018, Herrera staff delineated the ordinary high water marks
(OHWMs) of streams within the study area using the definition provided by Renton Municipal
Code (RMC 4-11-150) and methods in the publication Determining the Ordinary High Water
Mark for Shoreline Management Act Compliance in Washington State (Anderson et al. 2016).
According to Renton’s definition, the OHWM of streams is “the mark found by examining the
bed and banks of a stream, lake, pond, or tidal water and ascertaining where the presence and
action of waters are so common and usual, and so long continued in all ordinary years, as to
mark upon the soil a character distinct from that of the abutting upland …”
To delineate the OHWMs along the Madsen Creek low-flow channels, the bed and adjacent
banks of the stream channels were examined for indications of regular high water events.
Factors considered when assessing changes in vegetation included:
•Scour (removal of vegetation and exposure of gravel, sand, or other soil substrate)
•Drainage patterns
•Elevation of floodplain benches
•Changes in sediment texture across the floodplain
•Sediment layering
•Sediment or vegetation deposition
•Changes in vegetation communities across the floodplain
Herrera scientists hung blue flags on the site to indicate the horizontal location of the OHWMs
along the stream channels. The locations of the OHWM flags were then surveyed by PGS. The
OHWMs of the Madsen Creek high and low-flow channel sections within the reconnaissance
study area were not flagged. The high-flow channel was defined by the channel centerline
surveyed by PGS in June and July 2018. The low-flow channel depth is relatively uniform
throughout Reach C (see the discussion of reach definitions below), and therefore the OHWM of
the low-flow channel in that area south of SR 169 was visually estimated using LiDAR
topography (King County 2018c).
S TREAM C LASSIFICATION
Streams within the study area were classified per Renton’s stream typing system
(RMC 4-3-050-G.7.a), King County’s water typing system (KCC 21A.24.355), and the Washington
Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) water typing system (WAC 222-16-031). The Renton
stream rating system consists of four types: S, F, Np, or Ns. Type S waters are those that are
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 11
inventoried as “Shorelines of the State” under the Revised Code of Washington (RCW)
Chapter 90.58. Type F waters are those that are known to be used by fish, have the physical
characteristics to potentially be used by fish, and have perennial or seasonal flows. Type Np
waters do not contain fish or fish habitat and have perennial flows but include intermittent dry
portions of the perennial channel below the uppermost point of perennial flow. Type Ns waters
do not contain fish or fish habitat, have intermittent flows, and must be physically connected by
an above ground channel system to Type S, F, or Np waters.
The King County aquatic area (stream) typing system is based primarily on fish, wildlife, and
human use, and consists of four types: S, F, N, and O. Type S aquatic areas are those surface
waters that are inventoried as “Shorelines of the State” under King County’s Shoreline
Management Master Program (KCC Title 25), pursuant to Revised Code of Washington (RCW)
Chapter 90.58. Aquatic areas may include segments of streams where the mean annual flow is
greater than 20 cubic feet per second, marine shorelines, and lakes that are greater than
20 acres in size. Type F aquatic areas are those that contain fish or fish habitat. King County
defines fish habitat as “habitat that is used by anadromous or resident salmonids at any life
stage at any time of year, including potential habitat likely to be used by anadromous or
resident salmonids” (KCC 21A.06.578). Type F aquatic areas also include waters diverted for use
by a federal, state or tribal fish hatchery (KCC 21A.24.355). Type N aquatic areas include all
segments that are not Type S or F waters and that are physically connected to Type S or F
aquatic areas by an aboveground channel system, stream, or wetland. Type O aquatic areas are
not Type S, F, or N aquatic areas and are not physically connected to Type S, F, or N aquatic
areas by an aboveground channel system, pipe or culvert, stream, or wetlands.
Streams within the study area were also classified using the WDNR water typing system based
on WAC 222-16-031. That system is based primarily on fish, wildlife, and human uses, and
consists of four stream types: S, F, Np, and Ns. Type S streams are those surface waters that are
inventoried as “Shorelines of the State” pursuant to RCW Chapter 90.58.030. Type F streams and
waterbodies are those known to be used by fish or that meet the physical criteria to be
potentially used by fish. Type F streams may be perennial or seasonal. Physical criteria for fish
use include stream segments having a defined channel of 2 feet or greater within the bankfull
width in western Washington and having a gradient of 16 percent or less. Type Np streams have
flow year-round and may have spatially intermittent dry reaches downstream of perennial flow.
Type Np streams do not meet the physical criteria of a Type F stream and have been proven not
to contain fish. Type Ns streams do not have surface flow during at least some portion of the
year and do not meet the physical criteria of a Type F stream.
Stream channels within the study area were divided into nine reaches to provide detailed
resolution of existing characteristics and flooding potential. The reach extents are based on
changes in geomorphic conditions or locations of significant physical features such as road
crossings (e.g., SR 169). The reaches are listed in Table 1 and shown on Figure 3.
September 2018
12 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Table 1. Stream Reaches in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
Reach Description
A Madsen Creek upstream of sediment basin
B Primary sediment basin
C
Madsen Creek natural (low flow) channel from primary sediment basin to culvert under high-flow bypass
channel
D Madsen Creek low-flow channel from culvert under high-flow bypass channel to 149th Avenue Southeast
E Madsen Creek low-flow channel from 149th Avenue Southeast through Ron Regis Park
F Madsen Creek open water wetland downstream of Ron Regis Park to Cedar River
G High-flow bypass channel upstream of SR 169
H High-flow bypass channel downstream of SR 169
I Ditch along east side of 149th Avenue Southeast
Cedar River
Madsen Creek High Flow ChannelKing County
Madsen CreekLow Flow Cha
n
n
e
l
King County
Reach F
Reach E
Reach I
Reach H
Reach C
Reach A
Reach B
Reach G
Reach D
Ron Regis Park
New LifeChurch
Elliott Bridge ReachMitigation Site
WonderlandEstates
Renton
SE RENTON-
M
A
P
L
E
V
A
L
L
E
Y
R
D
(
S
R
-
1
6
9
)MAPLE DR145TH AVE SESE JO
N
E
S
R
D
154TH PL SESE 155TH PL
140TH
W
A
Y
S
E
1
4
2
N
D
P
L
S
E150THLNSE152ND AVE SESE 154TH ST
SE 153RD PL 149TH AVE SEOAK DRSE JO
N
E
S
P
L
PINE DRA1
B1 C1
C2
C3C4
D1
D2
E1
E2
E3
F1F2 F3
G1
H1
H2
I1
Pictometry, King County
0 400 800200
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\Fig3_ChannelReaches_letter.mxd
Figure 3.Stream Reaches and Stream HabitatSurvey Site Locations in the MadsenCreek Improvement Project Study Area.
E
Legend
King County, Aerial (2017)
A Madsen Creek upstream of sediment basin
C Madsen Creek natural channel from primary sediment basin to culvert under high flow bypass channelD Madsen Creek channel from culvert under high flow bypass to 149th Avenue SEE Madsen Creek channel from 149th Avenue SE through Ron Regis ParkF Madsen Creek open water wetland downstream of Ron Regis Park to Cedar RiverG High flow bypass channel upstream from SR-169H High flow bypass channel downstream from SR-169I Ditch along east side of 149th Avenue SE
Jurisdiction boundaryStudy area
B Primary sediment basin.
A1 Habitat survey location Elliott Bridge Reach Mitigation Site
September 2018
14 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
S TREAM HABITAT A SSESSMENT
Stream habitat assessment field surveys were completed on July 17 and 18, 2018, by Herrera
scientists. Herrera used a qualitative survey approach following specific proven protocols for
describing the physical stream habitat conditions within representative sub-reaches of Madsen
Creek and the high-flow bypass channel. These research methods and field survey protocols,
which have been used successfully in other stream habitat assessments in the Puget Sound
lowland region and for other developing watersheds in western Washington, are described in
the following sections. More information about the methodology used in the stream habitat
assessment is provided in Appendix B.
Physical Stream Habitat
The following physical stream habitat parameters were assessed for each stream reach.
•Channel type (adapted from Montgomery and Buffington 1997)
•Bankfull channel dimensions (WDNR 2004)
•Channel gradient
•Substrate material (Ecology 2006)
•Physical habitat complexity (McBride 2001; Ecology 2006)
•Functional large woody debris (LWD) status (adapted from Ralph et al. 1994; Beechie and
Sibley 1997; and Fox and Bolton 2007)
•Riffle gravel embeddedness (Comings et al. 2000)
•Riffle gravel cementation (Comings et al. 2000)
•Bank conditions (EPA 1999; Henshaw and Booth 2000)
Fish Passage
Stream culverts and open channel reaches were examined in the field for potential fish passage
barriers. The field survey included assessment of culvert size, length, and whether the culvert
outlet is perched above the channel bed, and assessment of features that may hinder or
completely block upstream fish passage under certain hydrologic conditions. Although a
thorough fish passage barrier analysis was not completed for this study, Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) guidance (WDFW 2009; Barnard et al. 2013) was
referenced during the field assessment.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 15
Floodplain Conditions
Floodplain connectivity refers to how regularly stream flows access adjacent floodplain areas.
Floodplain connectivity is important for providing refuge habitat for rearing and migrating fish
during high flows and is a key focus of habitat restoration efforts in the Cedar River and many of
its tributaries in the project vicinity.
Floodplain conditions were assessed using field evidence of vegetation conditions and
topographic and vegetative indicators of occasional inundation, such as sediment deposited
over organic debris, low topographic benches, and the type of vegetation growing near the
stream channel. For this qualitative stream survey, floodplain connectivity was characterized
using three general categories: low, medium, and high (adapted from May et al. 1997). Low
floodplain connectivity signifies that streamflows rarely exceed the horizontal and vertical limits
of the active/bankfull channel. Medium floodplain connectivity signifies evidence that
streamflows occasionally exceed the limits of the active/bankfull channel. High floodplain
connectivity signifies evidence that streamflows frequently exceed the limits of the
active/bankfull channel and inundate significant portions of the adjacent floodplain or overbank
areas.
Riparian Habitat Conditions
The following riparian habitat condition parameters were assessed for each representative
stream reach.
•Vegetation condition (adapted from WFPB [1997] and OWEB [1999])
•Riparian width (WFPB 1997; OWEB 1999)
Upland Habitat Characterization
Upland habitat characteristics were noted by Herrera staff during the wetland and stream
delineation field work. Upland vegetation communities were characterized according to the
dominant vegetation (e.g., riparian forested, scrub-shrub upland, herbaceous upland) and
according to any special features, such as location of a restoration site. Wildlife presence, or
evidence of species presence, were noted as well, but comprehensive surveying, sampling or
documentation was not undertaken to define wildlife use of the study area.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 17
RESULTS
This section describes the results of the wetland and stream delineations. It includes findings
from review of information obtained from various references, and analysis of wetland and
stream conditions in the study area as observed during field investigations.
A NALYSIS OF AVAILABLE I NFORMATION
The available existing information compiled for the wetland and stream delineation is
summarized in the following subsections.
Previously Mapped Wetlands and Streams
The National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) shows one palustrine forested and palustrine scrub-
shrub wetland within the Madsen Creek channel in Ron Regis Park (USFWS 2018a; Figure 4).
WDFW PHS data (WDFW 2018a) and King County iMap (2018) data do not indicate any
wetlands within the study area. Renton (2018) indicates there are three wetlands between the
sediment basin and the church buildings in the southernmost section of the study area as well
as a large wetland in Ron Regis Park. In previous work in support of the Elliott Bridge Reach
restoration project (King County 2013a, 2017), Herrera (2013) delineated three wetlands within
the current study area: a depressional, emergent wetland located within the high-flow bypass
channel of Madsen Creek; a depressional scrub-shrub wetland east of the high-flow bypass
channel; and a depressional scrub-shrub wetland located along 149th Avenue Southeast
(Figure 4). Where the naming of wetlands overlap with the 2013 Herrera report, the report year
is added to the name for clarity, e.g., Wetland A (2018) for wetlands delineated for this study
and Wetland A (2013) for wetlands identified in the 2013 Herrera report.
Madsen Creek flows north through the study area. Downstream of the sediment basin, Madsen
Creek diverges into a low-flow channel with perennial waters and a high-flow bypass channel.
Both Madsen Creek channels discharge into the Cedar River (King County 2018). FPARS and
SalmonScape map the low-flow channel as a Type F fish-bearing water and the high-flow bypass
channel as a Type N non-fish bearing water (WDNR 2018; WDFW 2018b). Renton (2018)
classifies both the high and low-flow channels of Madsen Creek as Type F streams. There are five
stream culverts within the study area, but none are currently classified as fish passage barriers
(WDFW 2018c), although the WDFW assessments of those culverts are outdated. See the ‘Fish
Passage’ methods and results section below for further discussion.
###
#
#
Cedar River
Madsen Creek High Flow ChannelKing County
Madsen Creek
King County
WonderlandEstates
Ron Regis Park
New LifeChurch
Renton
SE RENTON-
M
A
P
L
E
V
A
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(
S
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6
9
)154TH PL SEPictometry, King County, City of Renton, King County, WDFW
0 400 800200
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\Fig4_PrevMappedWLandStr_letter.mxd
Figure 4.Previously Mapped Wetlands, Streams,and Habitats in the Madsen CreekImprovement Project Study Area.
E
Legend
Wetland Type (NWI)
Freshwater Emergent Wetland
Freshwater Forested/Shrub Wetland
Freshwater Pond
Riverine
#Culvert (WDFW)
Study area Wetlands (City of Renton)
Wetland area (HEC, 2013)
Stream (King County)
Jurisdiction boundary
Roads
Parcel
Biodiversity area and corridor (WDFW)
Stream (WDFW)
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 19
Documented Fish and Wildlife Habitat Use
Several salmonid species occur in the Madsen Creek low-flow channel (WDFW 2018a; WDFW
2018b; Table 2) but salmonid use of the high-flow bypass channel has not been documented
(WDNR 2018; WDFW 2018a; WDFW 2018b). According to PHS data (WDFW 2018a), two
biodiversity areas and corridors (defined as an area of habitat relatively important to various
species of native fish and wildlife) are located in the project vicinity: one is within the southern
portion of the study area, and the second is adjacent to the study area on the north side of the
Cedar River (Figure 4). According to the eBird website, 48 species of birds have been observed in
Ron Regis Park (eBird 2012).
Table 2. Fish Species Mapped in or near the Study Area for the Madsen Creek
Improvement Project.
Salmonid Fish Species
Distribution
and Locationa Federal Statusb State Statusc
King County
Species of Local
Importance?d
Bull trout
(Salvelinus confluentus) Cedar River
Threatened
(Coastal/Puget
Sound DPS)
State Candidate Yes
Summer/Fall Chinook
Salmon (Oncorhynchus
tshawytscha)
Documented
Presence, Madsen
Creek, Cedar River
Threatened
(Puget Sound ESU)
State Candidate Yes
Coho Salmon
(Oncorhynchus kisutch)
Documented
Presence, Madsen
Creek, Cedar River
__ __ Yes
Winter Steelhead
(Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Documented
Presence, Madsen
Creek, Cedar River
Threatened
(Puget Sound DPS)
__ Yes
Sockeye Salmon
(Oncorhynchus nerka)
Documented
Presence, Madsen
Creek, Cedar River
__ __ Yes
Kokanee Salmon
(Oncorhynchus nerka)
Documented
Presence, Cedar
River
__ __ Yes
Resident Coastal Cutthroat
(Oncorhynchus clarki clarki)
Documented
Presence, Madsen
Creek, Cedar River
__ __ Yes
a Fish distribution is based on SalmonScape (WDFW 2018b) and PHS mapping (WDFW 2018a)
b US Fish and Wildlife Service endangered species list (USFWS 2018b) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS 2018).
c Washington State Species of Concern Lists (WDFW 2018d).
d Species protected in the King County Comprehensive Plan and Critical Areas Ordinance (KCC 21A.24.382).
DPS = Distinct Population Segment
ESU = Evolutionarily Significant Unit
September 2018
20 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Precipitation Data
During the 2-week period preceding the first day of delineation fieldwork (June 1–14, 2018),
rainfall was relatively low with 0.43 inch of total rainfall recorded at the SeaTac airport rain gage
(NRCS 2018a). Precipitation was evaluated for two 3-month periods (from March 1 to May 31,
2018, and from April 1 to June 30, 2018) prior wetland delineations. Precipitation recorded at the
SeaTac airport rain gage in the months of March through June 2018 was as follows relative to
historical records in these months: the recorded total depths in March, May, and June were dry,
and the recorded total depth in April was wet. In aggregate, the precipitation conditions in the
3 months prior to June and the 3 months prior to July fall within a normal range (Table 3) due to
the abnormally wet month of April.
Table 3. Precipitation Characteristics Inferred in the Study Area Preceding Field
Investigations.
Prior Month
WETS Rainfall
Percentile
(inches) 2018 Measured
Rainfall (inches)
2018 Condition
(Dry, Wet, or
Normal)
2018 Characteristics
for
Three-Month Periods 30th 70th
March 2.93 4.28 2.44 Dry March–May: Normal
April–June: Normal April 1.81 3.24 5.69 Wet
May 1.27 2.32 0.12 Dry
June 0.98 1.88 0.63 Dry
Source: WETS Station: SEATTLE TACOMA INTL AP, WA, 1981–2010; NRCS 2018a.
Soils
Three soil series are mapped within the study area: Alderwood and Kitsap soils, very steep;
Newberg silt loam; and Puyallup fine sandy loam (NRCS 2018d) (Figure 5). Each of these soil
types is described below. The soil in most of the study area is composed of Newberg silt loam,
while a smaller portion near the Cedar River is mapped as Puyallup fine sandy loam. The
Alderwood and Kitsap soils are on the slopes of the southern valley wall at the southern end of
the study area.
Alderwood and Kitsap Soils, Very Steep
The Alderwood soil series is a deep, well-drained soil that occurs on glacially modified hills and
ridges with slopes of 8 to 15 percent (NRCS 2018b). Alderwood soils occupy areas of historical
glacial moraines and till plains, and are derived from glacial basal till with some volcanic ash.
Alderwood soil is considered to be hydric (NRCS 2018c).
The Kitsap soil series is a very deep, moderately well drained soil formed in lacustrine sediments,
found on terraces and escarpments with slopes of 0 to 70 percent (NRCS 2018b). Kitsap soil is
considered to be hydric (NRCS 2018c).
King County
King County
WonderlandEstates
Renton
Rh
Py
AkF
AkF
Ur
Py
Ng
AgC
W
W
Pc
Rh
AkFAkF
AkF
Ma
Pictometry, King County
0 400 800200
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\mapped_soils_letter.mxd
Figure 5.Mapped Soils in the Madsen CreekImprovement Project Study Area.
E
Legend
Study area
Jurisdiction boundary
Soil type
AgC - Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 8% to 15% slopes
AkF - Alderwood and Kitsap soils, very steep
Ma - Mixed alluvial land
Ng - Newberg silt loam
Pc - Pilchuck loamy fine sand
Py - Puyallup fine sandy loam
Rh - Riverwash
Ur - Urban land
W - Water
September 2018
22 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Newberg Silt Loam
Newberg soils are deep and somewhat excessively drained, formed from loam, sandy alluvium,
sedimentary, and basic igneous rocks (NRCS 2018b). Newberg soils occur in floodplains.
Newberg soil is considered to be hydric (NRCS 2018c).
Puyallup Fine Sandy Loam
Puyallup fine sandy loam is a well-drained soil formed from recent alluvium. Puyallup soils occur
on floodplains and low terraces (NRCS 2018b). Puyallup silt loam is considered to be hydric
(NRCS 2018c).
W ETLAND DELINEATION AND RECONNAISSANCE R ESULTS
Weather conditions during the wetland delineation and reconnaissance fieldwork consisted of
daytime high temperatures ranging from 70 to 87 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) with light rain on the
first day and sunny conditions during the rest of the fieldwork. All wetland delineation fieldwork
occurred within the growing season (as defined in Appendix A).
Wetland Delineations
Herrera scientists delineated nine wetlands in the study area: Wetland A (2018), Wetland B,
Wetland C (2018), Wetland D (2018), Wetland E, Wetland F, Wetland G, Wetland H, and
Wetland I (Table 4; Figure 6, Figures 6-1 through 6-8). Wetland A (2018) and Wetland I extend
outside the delineation study area and were only partially delineated (see Figures 6-1 and 6-8).
Only wetland boundaries adjacent to Madsen Creek for Wetland B and Wetland C (2018) were
delineated (Figure 6-8), as only the encumbering boundaries for these wetlands were required
for this analysis of existing conditions.
Wetland A (2018) is a large, complex depressional/riverine wetland located between recreational
fields in Ron Regis Park and the Cedar River. The Cedar River and Madsen Creek contribute to
the hydrology of the northern and eastern portions of this wetland via overbank flooding, and
wetland hydrology is also supported by precipitation and a high groundwater table. Parts of the
Elliott Bridge Reach mitigation site (King County 2013a, 2017) are likely within the boundary of
Wetland A (2018). Wetland conditions in this area are influenced by beaver activity within the
mitigation site, which has created permanent ponding where Madsen Creek enters the
mitigation site (Figure 6-1).
Wetland B is a depressional wetland and Wetland C (2018) is a slope/depressional wetland; they
are located near the church buildings (Figures 6-7 and 6-8) within the southern portion of the
study area. One other wetland (hereafter referred to as unnamed wetland), which was not
delineated for this study because other nearby wetlands are closer to Madsen Creek, is located
at the base of the hillslope and just east of Wetland B. Berms separate the unnamed wetland
and Wetlands B and C (2018), and an additional berm separates Wetland B and Wetland C
(2018) from the stream channel.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 23
Table 4. Wetlands Delineated in Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
Wetland
Name
Size of Wetland
(square feet/acre)
USFWS
Classificationb
Hydrogeomorphic
Classificationc
Ecology Rating
Category
(2004/2014)
City of Renton
Standard Buffer
Width
(feet)d
King County
Standard Buffer
Width
(feet)e
Wetland A –a PEM, PSS, PFO Depressional, Riverine II | II 225 200
Wetland B –a PSS, PFO Depressional NA | II 100 NA
Wetland C –a PSS, PFO Depressional, Slope NA | II 100 NA
Wetland D 2,785/0.64 PSS, PFO Riverine NA | I 150 NA
Wetland E 562/0.01 PFO Riverine II | II 150 100
Wetland F 322/0.01 PEM, PSS Riverine NA | II 150 NA
Wetland G 53/0.0 PFO Riverine NA | II 150 NA
Wetland H 145/0.0 PFO Riverine NA | II 150 NA
Wetland I –a PSS Riverine NA | II 100 NA
a Wetland extends outside delineation study area and was not delineated in its entirety.
b US Fish and Wildlife Service classification is based on Federal Geographic Data Committee (2013): palustrine emergent (PEM), palustrine scrub-shrub (PSS), palustrine forested (PFO).
c Hydrogeomorphic classification is based on Brinson (1993).
d Wetland A’s buffer width, as determined by Renton’s Shoreline Master Program (RMC 4-3-090.D.d), is based upon wetland category and habitat function. All other wetland buffer
widths are determined by Renton’s critical area regulations and are based upon land uses, wetland rating and habitat score (RMC 4-3-050-G.2).
e King County standard buffers widths are based upon wetland rating score, location, habitat function level, and intensity of adjacent land use (KCC 21A.24.325).
NA = not applicable
September 2018
24 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
There is a small culvert, approximately 6 inches in diameter, on the northern side of Wetland C
(2018) that drains into the unnamed wetland. The unnamed wetland has a constructed outlet,
through which water appears to flow overland into Wetland B during high water events.
Wetland B drains into Madsen Creek via a small, narrow channel, approximately 1 foot in width.
No surface water connection to or from Wetland C (2018) was observed. Hydrology within
Wetland B is supported by a high groundwater table and precipitation. Wetland C (2018) and
the unnamed wetland are likely supported by a high groundwater table, precipitation and
hillslope seeps.
Wetlands D (2018), E, F, G, H, and I are riverine wetlands subject to overbank flooding from
Madsen Creek (Figures 6-2, 6-4, 6-5, 6-7, and 6-8). These wetlands each contain multiple units
that occur on both the left and right banks of the stream. Non-delineated Wetland I units
continue downstream on both sides of the stream in the reconnaissance portion of the study
area.
Wetland Reconnaissance
Herrera scientists confirmed conditions of previously delineated wetlands, Wetland A (2013),
Wetland C (2013), and Wetland D (2013), in the reconnaissance portion of the study area.
Detailed descriptions of these wetlands can be found in Herrera (2013). Within the Madsen
Creek low-flow channel south of SR 169, several more riverine wetlands were identified; similar
to the other Madsen Creek riverine wetlands listed above, these narrow, scrub-shrub dominated
wetlands are influenced by overbank flooding. Common vegetation within these wetlands
includes red alder (Alnus rubra), Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), and willow species
(Salix spp.). These riverine, scrub-shrub or forested wetlands are similar to Wetlands G and H and
would likely rate as Category II wetlands, which require a 100-foot buffer in the city of Renton
(see the “City of Renton Code” section below). No wetlands were identified within the high-flow
bypass channel south of SR 169.
Wetland buffer widths are shown on Figures 6-1 through 6-8 to display potential regulatory
constraints. Where wetland and stream buffers overlap, only the widest (outermost) buffer is
shown. Detailed descriptions, including representative photographs of each wetland, are
provided in Tables 5 through 13. Wetland delineation data forms (Appendix C) and Ecology
wetland rating forms and figures (Appendix D) are provided for each wetland.
Renton
King County
King County
Madsen Creek1
2
8
3
4
6
5
7Madsen Creek High Flow ChannelCed
a
r
R
i
v
e
r
Pictometry, King County
Figure 6.Key to Wetland, Stream, and Buffer Figures 6-1 to 6-8 in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
King County, Aerial (2017)
0 220 440110
Feet
Legend
Study area
Sheet reference
Jurisdictional boundary
Stream (King County)
Delineated and estimated stream
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\Fig6_OverviewWLandStrBuffers_11x17.mxd
E
""
Renton
King CountyWetland A (2018)Cat. II, 225 feet (Renton)200 feet (KC)
Wetland A (2013)Cat. IV, 50 feet (KC)
Elliott Bridge ReachMitigation Site
Madsen CreekHigh Flow BypassType F, (115 ft)DELINEATION STUDY AREARECONNAISSANCE STUDY AREAWetland D (2013)Cat. IV, 50 feet (KC)
Approximate location of beaver dam
Ron Regis Park
200ft
115ft225ft
149THAVESESEJONESPL
Ce
d
a
r
R
i
v
e
r
TP-A-WET
TP-A-UPL
Figure 6-1.Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
0 100 20050Feet
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Study area
Jurisdictional boundary
Elliott Bridge Reach Mitigation Site
Delineated wetland boundary
Estimated wetland boundary
Wetland area
Wetland area (HEC, 2013)
Critical area buffer (Delineated)
Critical area buffer (Estimated)
Stream (King County)
Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM)
Centerline (Surveyed)
Test pit
""Approximate location of beaver dam
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\FigX_WLandStrBuffers_11x17.mxd
E
8
2 4 5
7
6
3
1
Wetland D (2013)Cat. IV, 50 feet (KC)
King County
Renton
Wetland A (2018)Cat. II, 225 feet (Renton)200 feet (KC)
Wetland D Cat. I, 150 feet (Renton)
Wetland E Cat. II, 150 feet (Renton)100 feet (KC)DELINEATION STUDY AREARECONNAISSANCE STUDY AREAWetland F Cat. II, 150 feet (Renton)
Madsen CreekType F, 115-feet
Ron Regis Park 225ft
115ftMAPLE DRPINE DRSE 153RD PL
SE RENTON-
M
A
P
L
E
V
A
L
L
E
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(
S
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6
9
)149TH AVE SETP-D-UPL
TP-D-WET
TP-E-UPL TP-E-WET
TP-F-WET
TP-F-UPL
Figure 6-2.Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
0 70 14035Feet
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Study area
Jurisdictional boundary
Elliott Bridge Reach Mitigation Site
Delineated wetland boundary
Estimated wetland boundary
Wetland area
Critical area buffer (Delineated)
Critical area buffer (Estimated)
Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM)
Test pit
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32
Madsen CreekHigh Flow BypassType F, 115-feet
Renton
King County
Wetland C (2013)Cat. IV, 50 feet (KC)
DELINEATION
S
T
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A
R
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A
RECONNAISS
A
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C
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S
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Wetland A (2013)Cat. IV, 50 feet (KC)
115ft
50ft
SERENTON-MAPLEVALLEYRD(SR-169)150THLNSEFigure 6-3.Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
0 60 12030Feet
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Study area
Jurisdictional boundary
Delineated wetland boundary
Wetland area
Wetland area (HEC, 2013)
Critical area buffer (Delineated)
Critical area buffer (Estimated)
Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM)
Centerline (Surveyed)
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Wetland ECat. II, 150 feet (Renton)100 feet (KC)
Wetland DCat. I, 150 feet (Renton)
Wetland FCat. II, 150 feet (Renton)
Wetland GCat. II, 150 feet (Renton)
DELINEATION
S
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RECONNAISS
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Renton
King County115ft115ft
150ftPINE DR
MAPLE DROAKDR149TH AVE SESERENTON-MAPLEVALLEYRD
(
SR-169)
TP-E-UPL TP-E-WET
TP-F-WETTP-F-UPL
TP-G-WETTP-G-UPL
Figure 6-4.Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
0 50 10025Feet
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Study area
Jurisdictional boundary
Delineated wetland boundary
Estimated wetland boundary
Wetland area
Critical area buffer (Delineated)
Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM)
Centerline (Surveyed)
OHWM (estimated)
Test pit
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Renton
King County
Madsen CreekHigh Flow BypassType F, 115-feet Madsen CreekType F, 115-feet
Wetland HCat. II, 150 feet (Renton)
Wetland GCat. II, 150 feet (Renton)
DELINEATION S
T
U
D
Y
A
R
E
A
RECONNAISSA
N
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DELINEATION S
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150f
t 150TH LN SESE RENTON-
M
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R
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(
S
R
-
1
6
9
)
TP-H-UPL
TP-G-WETTP-G-UPL
TP-H-WET
Figure 6-5.Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
0 50 10025Feet
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Study area
Jurisdictional boundary
Delineated wetland boundary
Wetland area
Critical area buffer (Delineated)
Critical area buffer (Estimated)
Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM)
Centerline (Surveyed)
OHWM (estimated)
Test pit
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Madsen CreekHigh Flow BypassType F, 115-feet
Madsen CreekType F, 115-feet
Renton
RECONNAISSANCE STUDY AREANew Life Church
115ftBIRCH DRFigure 6-6.Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
0 50 10025Feet
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Study area
Jurisdictional boundary
Critical area buffer (Delineated)
Critical area buffer (Estimated)
Centerline (Surveyed)
OHWM (estimated)
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((Wetland I unitscontinue downstream
Renton
DELINEATION STUDY A
R
E
ARECONNAISSANCE STU
D
Y
A
R
E
ARECONNAISSANCE STUDY AREARECONNAISSANCE STUDY AREAWetlands observedalong stream
Madsen CreekType F, 115-feet
Madsen CreekHigh Flow BypassType F, 115-feet
Wetland ICat. II, 100 feet (Renton)
Wetland BCat. II, 100 feet (Renton)
New Life Church115f
t
100ftBIRCH DR
TP-B-UPL
TP-B-WET
TP-I-UPL
TP-I-WET
Figure 6-7.Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
0 50 10025Feet
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Study area
Jurisdictional boundary
Delineated wetland boundary
Estimated wetland boundary
Wetland area
Critical area buffer (Delineated)
Critical area buffer (Estimated)
Estimated wetland location
Centerline (Surveyed)
OHWM (estimated)((Culvert
Test pit
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((Wetland BCat. II, 100 feet (Renton)
Wetland ICat. II, 100 feet (Renton)
Wetland CCat. II, 100 feet (Renton)
Madsen CreekType F, 115-feet
Madsen CreekHigh Flow BypassType F, 115-feet
Renton
DELINEATION STUDY A
R
E
ARECONNAISSANCE STU
D
Y
A
R
E
A
Wetland I unitscontinue downstream
Unnamed wetlandlocation, Cat. II,100 feet (Renton)
Sediment Basin
New Life Church115f
t
100ftTP-C-UPL
TP-C-WET
TP-B-UPL
TP-B-WET
TP-I-UPL
TP-I-WET
Figure 6-8.Wetlands, Streams, and Buffers in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
0 60 12030Feet
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Study area
Jurisdictional boundary
Delineated wetland boundary
Estimated wetland boundary
Wetland area
Critical area buffer (Delineated)
Critical area buffer (Estimated)
Estimated wetland location
Centerline (Surveyed)
OHWM (estimated)((Culvert
Test pit
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September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 43
Table 5. Summary for Wetland A.
Wetland Name Wetland A
Location South of Cedar River; north and west of Ron Regis Park
Local Jurisdiction City of Renton,
King County
WRIA 8
(Cedar-
Sammamish)
Wetland Rating Category II (2004)
Category II (2014)
Buffer Width 225 feet
(Renton shoreline
jurisdiction)
200 feet
(King County)
Cowardin
Classification
Palustrine
emergent,
palustrine scrub-
shrub, palustrine
forested
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Depressional,
Riverine
Wetland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-A-WET
Upland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-A-UPL
Wetland Size Size not determined. Wetland extends beyond study area.
Dominant Vegetation Dominant vegetation in palustrine emergent areas includes reed canarygrass (Phalaris
arundinacea) and broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia). Scrub-shrub communities are
dominated by Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus) but also include Sitka willow
(Salix sitchensis) and Pacific willow (Salix lasiandra). The palustrine scrub-shrub
communities include Pacific willow, salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis), Japanese knotweed
(Polygonum cuspidatum), reed canarygrass, American speedwell (Veronica americana),
and ornamental jewelweed (Impatiens glandulifera). Palustrine forested areas consist of
red alder (Alnus rubra), black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera) and Pacific willow with
an understory of reed canarygrass and Himalayan blackberry. In the Elliott Bridge
mitigation site and surrounding area, scrub-shrub and forested communities include
willow species (Salix spp), Himalayan blackberry, black cottonwood, red alder, western
red cedar (Thuja plicata), and reed canarygrass.
September 2018
44 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Table 5 (continued). Summary for Wetland A.
Soils Wetland soils (soil pit TP-A-WET) were examined to a 20-inch depth and exhibited
hydric characteristics. The top 5 inches of soil were a 10YR 3/2 loam with 2 percent
distinct 10YR 4/6 redoximorphic concentrations (RMC) in the matrix. From 5 to
20 inches, the soil was a 10YR 4/1 loamy sand with 5 percent prominent 7.5YR 3/4 RMC
and 15 percent distinct 10YR 4/6 RMC in the matrix. This profile meets the hydric soil
indicator for a depleted below dark surface (A11) and sandy redox (S5).
Upland soils (soil pit TP-A-UPL) were examined to a 15-inch depth before reaching a
restrictive layer and did not exhibit any hydric characteristics.
Hydrology At TP-A-WET, soils were not saturated, nor was a water table present. Therefore,
secondary indicators (two minimum required) were used to confirm wetland hydrology:
saturation visible on aerial imagery (C9), geomorphic position (D2), and FAC-neutral test
(D5). Hydrologic inputs to this wetland include a shallow groundwater table,
precipitation, and Madsen Creek flows. A beaver dam is causing permanent flooding in
the Elliott Bridge mitigation site, increasing hydrology for this wetland.
Rationale for
Delineation
All three wetland parameters are met.
Rationale for
Local Rating
King County Code classifies wetlands according to the 2004 Ecology rating system
(Hruby 2004). Renton uses the 2014 rating system (Hruby 2014). According to both
systems, Wetland A is rated as a Category II wetland.
Buffer Condition The buffer of Wetland A includes relatively undisturbed areas, residential areas, and
ballfields in Ron Regis Park. The Cedar River and undeveloped forested areas border the
wetland to the north and west. Actively used ball fields illuminated with bright lighting
at night in Ron Regis Park are south of the wetland. A residential property is located on
the southeastern boundary.
Note: Wetland boundaries and wetland area are indicated in yellow. Stream location and flow direction are indicated in blue.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 45
Table 6. Summary for Wetland B.
Wetland Name Wetland B
Location On New Life Church property, west of the church buildings, south of Madsen Creek, and
east of Wetland C.
Local Jurisdiction City of Renton
WRIA 8
(Cedar-Sammamish)
Wetland Rating
(2014)
Category II
Renton Buffer
Width
100 feet
Cowardin
Classification
Palustrine scrub-
shrub, Palustrine
forested
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Depressional
Wetland
Data Forms
Appendix C,
TP-B-WET
Upland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-B-UPL
Wetland Size Size not determined. Wetland B extends beyond study area.
Dominant Vegetation Wetland B is composed of forested and scrub-shrub communities. The Wetland B
canopy layer is dominated by red alder and Pacific willow, with salmonberry, lady fern
(Athyrium cyclosorum), skunk cabbage (Lysichiton americanus), American speedwell, tall
mannagrass (Glyceria elata), ornamental jewelweed, creeping buttercup (Ranunculus
repens), water parsley (Oenanthe sarmentosa), and giant horsetail (Equisetum telmateia)
in the understory.
Soils Wetland soils (soil pit TP-B-WET) were examined to a 20-inch depth and exhibited hydric
characteristics. The top 12 inches of soil were a 5Y 5/1 loamy sand with 20 percent
prominent 7.5YR 4/4 RMC in the matrix. From 12 to 20 inches, the soil was a 5Y 5/1
sandy loam with 20 percent prominent 7.5YR 4/6 RMC in the matrix. This profile meets
the hydric soil indicator for a depleted matrix (F3).
Upland soils (soil pit TP-B-UPL) were examined to an 18-inch depth and did not meet the
criteria for any hydric soil indicators.
Hydrology At TP-B-WET, soils were saturated to the surface and a water table was present to 1 inch
below ground surface. Hydrologic inputs to this wetland include a shallow groundwater
table, precipitation, and some overflow during high water events from the unnamed
wetland to the east.
Rationale for
Delineation
All three wetland parameters are met.
Rationale for
Local Rating
Wetland B is rated as a Category II wetland (Hruby 2014).
September 2018
46 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Table 6 (continued). Summary for Wetland B.
Buffer Condition Buffer areas immediately surrounding the wetland include relatively undisturbed
forested upland and wetland areas and Madsen Creek. A PHS biodiversity habitat and
corridor is mapped south of the wetland. A playground is approximately 90 feet east of
the wetland, and a utility road is approximately 130 feet to the west. The buffer north of
the wetland includes native and nonnative vegetation including black cottonwood,
salmonberry, bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum), red alder, Himalayan blackberry, and
Japanese knotweed. South of the wetland, the mixed deciduous/coniferous forest
includes bigleaf maple, red alder, western red cedar, Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii),
osoberry (Oemleria cerasiformis), beaked hazelnut (Corylus cornuta), and sword fern
(Polystichum munitum).
Note: Wetland boundaries and wetland area are indicated in yellow.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 47
Table 7. Summary for Wetland C.
Wetland Name Wetland C
Location On New Life Church property, west of the church buildings, south of Madsen Creek, and
west of Wetland B.
Local Jurisdiction City of Renton
WRIA 8
(Cedar-Sammamish)
Wetland Rating
(2014)
Category II
Renton Buffer
Width
100 feet
Cowardin
Classification
Palustrine scrub-
shrub, Palustrine
forested
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Depressional, Slope
Wetland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-C-WET
Upland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-C-UPL
Wetland Size Size not determined. Wetland C extends beyond study area.
Dominant Vegetation Wetland C is composed of forested and scrub-shrub communities. Dominant plants
include red alder and Pacific willow in the canopy with salmonberry, devil’s club
(Oplopanax horridus), lady fern, skunk cabbage, American speedwell, small-fruited
bulrush (Scirpus microcarpus), tall mannagrass, ornamental jewelweed, creeping
buttercup, and giant horsetail in the understory.
Soils Wetland soils (soil pit TP-C-WET) were examined to a 14-inch depth and exhibited
hydric characteristics. The top 10 inches of soil were 10YR 2/1 sandy clay loam. From
10 to 14 inches, the soil was a 5Y 4/1 sandy loam with 15 percent prominent 7.5YR 4/6
RMC in the matrix. This profile meets the hydric soil indicator for depleted below dark
surface (A11).
Upland soils (soil pit TP-C-UPL) were examined to a 10-inch depth before reaching a
restrictive layer and did not exhibit any hydric characteristics.
Hydrology At TP-C-WET, soils were saturated to the surface and surface water was observed
directly adjacent to the soil pit. Hydrologic inputs to this wetland include a shallow
groundwater table and precipitation.
Rationale for
Delineation
All three wetland parameters are met.
Rationale for
Local Rating
Wetland C is rated as a Category II wetland (Hruby 2014).
Buffer Condition The buffer area immediately surrounding the wetland includes relatively undisturbed
forested upland, other wetlands, and Madsen Creek. A PHS biodiversity habitat and
corridor is mapped south of the wetland. A playground is approximately 230 feet east
of the wetland, and a utility road is approximately 50 feet to the west. The buffer north
of the wetland includes native and nonnative vegetation including black cottonwood,
salmonberry, bigleaf maple, red alder, Himalayan blackberry, and Japanese knotweed.
South of the wetland, the mixed deciduous/coniferous forest includes bigleaf maple,
red alder, western red cedar, Douglas fir, osoberry, beaked hazelnut, and sword fern.
Note: Wetland boundaries and wetland area are indicated in yellow.
September 2018
48 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Table 8. Summary for Wetland D.
Wetland Name Wetland D
Location Located between the bridges at 149th Avenue Southeast and Ron Regis Park driveway.
Local Jurisdiction City of Renton
WRIA 8
(Cedar-Sammamish)
Wetland Rating
(2014)
Category I
Renton Buffer
Width
150 feet
Cowardin
Classification
Palustrine scrub-
shrub, Palustrine
forested
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Riverine
Wetland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-D-WET
Upland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-D-UPL
Wetland Size 2,785 square feet/0.64 acre
Dominant Vegetation Wetland D is composed of forested and scrub-shrub communities. Dominant vegetation
includes Pacific and Sitka willow, salmonberry, Himalayan blackberry, Japanese
knotweed, American speedwell, and bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara).
Soils Wetland soils (soil pit TP-D-WET) were examined to a 20-inch depth and exhibited hydric
characteristics. The top 5 inches of soil was 10YR 3/1 silty clay loam with 10 percent
prominent 7.5YR 5/8 RMC in the matrix. From 5 to 11 inches below the surface, the soil
was 5Y 4/1 silty clay loam with 10 percent prominent 7.5YR 4/6 and 10 percent
prominent 7.5YR 4/4 RMC in the matrix. From 11 to 20 inches below the surface, the soil
was N3/silty loam with 10 percent 10YR 5/6 RMC in the matrix. This profile meets the
hydric soil indicator for depleted matrix (F3) and redox dark surface (F6).
Upland soils (soil pit TP-D-UPL) were examined to an 18-inch depth and did not exhibit
any hydric characteristics.
Hydrology At TP-D-WET, soils were saturated at 6 inches below the surface, and a water table was
measured at 11 inches depth. The main hydrologic input to this wetland is Madsen Creek
flow.
Rationale for
Delineation
All three wetland parameters are met.
Rationale for
Local Rating
Wetland D is rated as a Category I wetland (Hruby 2014).
Buffer Condition The buffer area immediately surrounding the wetland consists of an approximately 4- to
10-foot-wide riparian, deciduous forest. Beyond the forested area, mowed lawn grasses,
paved trails and a road, and residential properties comprise the buffer.
Note: Wetland boundaries and wetland area are indicated in yellow. Stream location and flow direction are indicated in blue.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 49
Table 9. Summary for Wetland E.
Wetland Name Wetland E
Location Wetland E is located east of the 149th Avenue Southeast culvert along Madsen Creek.
Local Jurisdiction City of Renton
WRIA 8
(Cedar-Sammamish)
Wetland Rating Category II
(2004 and 2014)
Buffer Width 150 feet (Renton)
100 feet
(King County)
Cowardin
Classification
Palustrine forested
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Riverine
Wetland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-E-WET
Upland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-E-UPL
Wetland Size 562 square feet/0.01 acre
Dominant Vegetation The palustrine forested community is dominated by Pacific willow, black cottonwood,
Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia), and red alder in the canopy with red-osier dogwood,
Himalayan blackberry, salmonberry, spiraea hardhack (Spiraea douglasii), Sitka willow,
rose sp., bittersweet nightshade, giant horsetail and reed canarygrass in the understory.
Soils Wetland soils (soil pit TP-E-WET) were examined to an 18-inch depth and exhibited
hydric characteristics. The top 1 inch of soil was a 7.5YR 3/1 clay loam with 3 percent
distinct 7.5YR 5/4 RMC in the matrix. From 1 to 18 inches below the surface, the soil was
10YR 3/1 loam with 25 percent prominent 7.5YR 4/6 RMC in the matrix. This profile
meets the hydric soil indicator for redox dark surface (F6).
Upland soils (soil pit TP-E-UPL) were examined to a 16-inch depth and did not exhibit
any hydric characteristics.
Hydrology At TP-E-WET, soils were saturated at 10 inches below the surface. The main hydrologic
input to this wetland is overbank flooding from Madsen Creek.
Rationale for
Delineation
All three wetland parameters are met.
Rationale for
Local Rating
King County Code classifies wetlands according to the Ecology rating system (Hruby
2004), and Renton uses the 2014 Ecology rating system (Hruby 2014). According to both
systems, Wetland E is rated as a Category II wetland.
Buffer Condition The buffer area immediately surrounding the wetland consists of an approximately 3- to
5-foot-wide riparian, deciduous forest. Beyond the forested area, mowed lawn grasses,
paved trails and roads, and residential properties comprise the buffer.
Note: Wetland boundaries and wetland area are indicated in yellow. Stream location and flow direction are indicated in blue.
September 2018
50 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Table 10. Summary for Wetland F.
Wetland Name Wetland F
Location Wetland F is located south of SR 169 and east of 150th Avenue Southeast along Madsen
Creek
Local Jurisdiction City of Renton
WRIA 8
(Cedar-Sammamish)
Wetland Rating
(2014)
Category II
Renton Buffer
Width
150 feet
Cowardin
Classification
Palustrine emergent,
Palustrine scrub-
shrub
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Riverine
Wetland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-F-WET
Upland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-F-UPL
Wetland Size 322 square feet/0.01 acre
Dominant Vegetation Wetland F is composed of palustrine scrub-shrub and emergent communities. Dominant
vegetation includes red alder, Sitka willow and Pacific willow saplings, reed canarygrass,
American speedwell, small-fruited bulrush, and soft rush (Juncus effusus).
Soils Wetland soils (soil pit TP-F-WET) were examined to a 19-inch depth and exhibited hydric
characteristics. The top 3 inches of soil were a 10YR 3/1 loamy sand with 5 percent
prominent 7.5YR 5/8 RMC in the matrix. From 3 to 9 inches below the surface, the soil
was 10YR 3/1 loamy sand with 20 percent prominent 5YR 5/8 RMC in the matrix. From
9 to 12 inches below the surface, the soil was 10YR 2/1 loam sandy with 5 percent
prominent 5YR 4/6 RMC in the matrix. From 12 to 19 inches below the surface, the soil
was 10YR 3/1 loam sandy with 15 percent prominent 5YR 4/6 RMC in the matrix. This
profile meets the hydric soil indicator for sandy redox (S5).
Upland soils (soil pit TP-F-UPL) were examined to a 16-inch depth and did not exhibit
any hydric characteristics.
Hydrology At TP-F-WET, soils were saturated at 7 inches below the surface, and a water table was
present at 15 inches depth. The main hydrologic input to this wetland is overbank
flooding from Madsen Creek.
Rationale for
Delineation
All three wetland parameters are met.
Rationale for
Local Rating
Wetland F is rated as a Category II wetland (Hruby 2014).
Buffer Condition The buffer area immediately surrounding the wetland consists of a gravel maintenance
driveway north of the wetland and shrub vegetation, consisting of red-osier dogwood,
and arborvitae. Roads and driveways surround the wetland on all sides.
Note: Wetland boundaries and wetland area are indicated in yellow. Stream location and flow direction are indicated in blue.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 51
Table 11. Summary for Wetland G.
Wetland Name Wetland G
Location Located on New Life Church property south of SR 169, west of Wetland H along Madsen
Creek
Local Jurisdiction City of Renton
WRIA 8
(Cedar-Sammamish)
Wetland Rating
(2014)
Category II
Renton Buffer
Width
150 feet
Cowardin
Classification
Palustrine forested
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Riverine
Wetland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-G-WET
Upland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-G-UPL
Wetland Size 53 square feet
Dominant Vegetation The palustrine forested community is dominated by Pacific willow and Oregon ash in the
canopy with red-osier dogwood, Himalayan blackberry, rose sp., small-fruited bulrush,
reed canarygrass, giant horsetail, and colonial bentgrass (Agrostis capillaris) in the
understory.
Soils Wetland soils (soil pit TP-G-WET) were examined to a 20-inch depth and exhibited hydric
characteristics. The top 10 inches of soil was a 10YR 3/2 clay loam. From 10 to 20 inches
below the surface, the soil was 2.5YR 2.5/1 clay loam with 15 percent prominent 5YR 5/8
RMC in the matrix. Hydrogen sulfide odor (A4) was detected at the soil pit. This profile
meets the hydric soil indicator for redox dark surface (F6) and hydrogen sulfide (A4).
Upland soils (TP-G-UPL) were examined to a 20-inch depth and did not exhibit any
hydric characteristics.
Hydrology At TP-G-WET, soils were saturated at 12 inches below the surface. Wetland hydrology
indicator hydrogen sulfide odor (C1) was also observed. Hydrologic input includes
overbank flooding from Madsen Creek.
Rationale for
Delineation
All three wetland parameters are met.
Rationale for
Local Rating
Wetland G is rated as a Category II wetland (Hruby 2014).
Buffer Condition The buffer area immediately surrounding the wetland consists of mixed coniferous-
deciduous forest, including a buffer restoration site located between the stream and the
church play fields (approximately 100 feet south of stream). SR 169 is to the north
beyond the forested area.
Note: Wetland boundaries and wetland area are indicated in yellow. Stream location and flow direction are indicated in blue.
September 2018
52 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Table 12. Summary for Wetland H.
Wetland Name Wetland H
Location Located on New Life Church property south of SR 169, east of Wetland G along Madsen
Creek
c Local Jurisdiction City of Renton
WRIA 8
(Cedar-Sammamish)
Wetland Rating
(2014)
Category II
Renton Buffer
Width
150 feet
Cowardin
Classification
Palustrine forested
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Riverine
Wetland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-H-WET
Upland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-H-UPL
Wetland Size 145 square feet
Dominant Vegetation The forested community is dominated by Pacific willow and Oregon ash in the canopy
with red-osier dogwood, Himalayan blackberry, giant horsetail, and colonial bentgrass
in the understory.
Soils Soils were examined to a 20-inch depth and exhibited hydric characteristics. At
TP-H-WET, the top 2 inches of soil was a 10YR 3/2 loamy sand. From 2 to 15 inches
below the surface, the soil was 2.5YR 3/1 loamy sand with 25 percent prominent 7.5YR
4/6 RMC in the matrix. From 15 to 20 inches below the surface, the mixed matrix was
10YR 4/1 sand with 3 percent prominent 10YR 5/8 RMC in the matrix; the second matrix
color was a 10YR 2/1 sand. Hydrogen sulfide (A4) odor was detected at the soil pit. This
profile meets the hydric soil indicator for redox dark surface (F6) and hydrogen sulfide
(A4).
Upland soils (TP-H-UPL) were examined to a 20-inch depth and did not exhibit any
hydric characteristics.
Hydrology At TP-H-WET, soils were saturated at 4 inches below the surface, and a water table was
observed at 6 inches depth. Hydrogen sulfide (indicator C1) was detected at the soil pit.
Hydrologic input includes overbank flooding from Madsen Creek.
Rationale for
Delineation
All three wetland parameters are met.
Rationale for
Local Rating
Wetland H is rated as a Category II wetland (Hruby 2014).
Buffer Condition The buffer area immediately surrounding the wetland consists of mixed coniferous-
deciduous forest, including a buffer restoration site located between the stream and the
church playfields (approximately 100 feet south of stream). SR 169 is to the north
beyond the forested area.
Note: Wetland boundaries and wetland area are indicated in yellow. Stream location and flow direction are indicated in blue.
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Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 53
Table 13. Summary for Wetland I.
Wetland Name Wetland I
Location On New Life Church property, west of the church buildings, along Madsen Creek, and
north of Wetland B.
Local Jurisdiction City of Renton
WRIA 8
(Cedar-Sammamish)
Wetland Rating
(2014)
Category II
Renton Buffer
Width
100 feet
Cowardin
Classification
Palustrine scrub-
shrub
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Riverine
Wetland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-I-WET
Upland
Data Form
Appendix C,
TP-I-UPL
Wetland Size Total size of Wetland I was not determined. Not all wetland units within Wetland I were
delineated.
Dominant Vegetation Dominant vegetation in the scrub-shrub community includes salmonberry, Himalayan
blackberry, youth on age (Tolmiea menziesii), creeping buttercup, giant horsetail and
stinging nettle (Urtica dioica).
Soils Soils were examined to a 20-inch depth and exhibited hydric characteristics. At
TP-I-WET, the top 9 inches of soil was a 7.5YR 3/2 clay loam with 15 percent prominent
2.5YR 4/8 RMC in the matrix and pore linings and 15 percent 10YR 6/3 depletions in the
matrix. From 9 to 20 inches below the surface, the soil was 5Y 4/1 loamy sand with
20 percent prominent 7.5YR 5/8 RMC in the matrix. This profile meets the hydric soil
indicator for redox dark surface (F6), depleted matrix (F3), and depleted below dark
surface (A11).
Upland soils (TP-D-UPL) were examined to a depth of 20 inches and did not exhibit any
hydric characteristics.
Hydrology At TP-D-WET, soils were saturated at 15 inches below the surface, and oxidized
rhizospheres along living roots (C3) support evidence of wetland hydrology. Hydrologic
inputs to this wetland include overbank flooding from Madsen Creek and precipitation.
Rationale for
Delineation
All three wetland parameters are met.
Rationale for
Local Rating
Wetland I is rated as a Category II wetland (Hruby 2014).
Buffer Condition The buffer area immediately surrounding the wetland consists of mixed coniferous-
deciduous forest. The church play fields are located north of the wetland, the church is to
the east, and a residential neighborhood is to the west. A PHS biodiversity habitat and
corridor is located to the south.
Note: Wetland boundaries and wetland area are indicated in yellow. Stream location and flow direction are indicated in blue.
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54 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
E VALUATION OF W ETLAND FUNCTIONS
Wetland functions for each wetland within the study area were evaluated according to data in
the 2014 Ecology rating form (Hruby 2014). This system generates a qualitative functional rating
(high, moderate, or low) for each of the functions (water quality, hydrology, and habitat)
provided by wetlands. A summary of the function scores, the total wetland score, and the
associated rating (category) for each wetland is provided in Table 14.
Wetland A
The functions of Wetland A were evaluated using the depressional HGM classification, as it
contains both depressional and riverine HGM classes. The wetland occurs in a topographic
depression in which water ponds or is saturated to the surface during parts of the year and
receives overbank flood waters from the Cedar River and Madsen Creek.
Wetland A has a moderate potential at the site level to improve water quality (i.e., remove
toxins), as the abundance of persistent vegetation and seasonal ponding supports the removal
of nutrients, particularly nitrogen. The surrounding landscape has moderate potential to support
water quality functions at the site as adjacent land uses generate pollutants that enter the
wetland, such as paved roads, ballfields, and dogs. The water quality functions provided by
Wetland A have a high value to society because the wetland is located within a basin (Madsen
Creek and Cedar River) with a Section 303(d) impaired water (Ecology 2018b) and because of the
potential to capture some of the high sediment loading carried in Madsen Creek, which is the
impetus for this study.
The wetland has low potential to reduce flooding and stream degradation at the site level, as
temporarily trapped water can readily drain to the Cedar River and it is supplied by a large
contributing basin that includes the Cedar River basin and the Madsen Creek drainage basin.
The surrounding landscape has moderate potential to support hydrologic functions because
much of the land around the wetland is impacted by intensive land uses, such as dense
residential areas, and the ballfields that are immediately adjacent to the wetland. Wetland A has
a high value to society because it captures surface water that may otherwise contribute to
flooding down-gradient of the wetland.
The wetland has a high potential for habitat at the site level. It has emergent, scrub-shrub and
forested classes with multiple strata and four hydroperiods (permanent, seasonal, occasional
flooding and saturation), which lends to a higher interspersion of habitats, and additionally has a
high richness of plant species with multiple special habitat features (e.g., large, downed woody
debris and snags). The wetland has low potential for habitat on a landscape level as much of the
surrounding landscape has high intensity land uses, including residential properties and ball
fields. The habitat provided by the site has a high value to society because there are three
priority habitats within 100 meters of the wetland (WDFW 2008), it provides habitat for
threatened or endangered species, and is mapped as a location for WDFW priority species, such
as steelhead and coho salmon.
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Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 55
Table 14. Individual Wetland Function Scores for Wetlands in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
Wetland
Name
Water Quality Functions Ratinga Functions Hydrologic Ratinga Habitat Functions Ratinga
Total
Scoreb
Washington
State
Department
of Ecology
Rating
Categoryc
Site
Potential
Landscape
Potential Value
Site
Potential
Landscape
Potential Value
Site
Potential
Landscape
Potential Value
A M M H L M H H L H 20 II
B M M H M M H M M H 21 II
C M M H M M H M M H 21 II
D M H H M H H M M H 23 I
E M H H M H H L M H 22 II
F M H H L M H L M H 20 II
G L H H L H H L M H 20 II
H M H H M H H L M H 22 II
I M H H M H H L M H 22 II
a Qualitative ratings of H (high), M (moderate), and L (low) are based on the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) rating system (Hruby 2014).
b Total score is derived by adding all qualitative ratings together. Low ratings are worth 1 point, Moderate ratings are worth 2 points, and High ratings are worth 3 points.
c Wetland category is based on the Ecology rating system (Hruby 2014).
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56 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Wetlands B and C
The functions of Wetlands B and C were evaluated using the depressional HGM classification.
Wetland B occurs in a topographic depression in which water ponds or is saturated to the
surface during parts of the year. Wetland C occurs within a topographic depression and is
located on a slope in which water emanates from seeps. These wetlands were grouped for this
analysis as they are both depressional wetlands and because of their similarity in landscape
position relative to developed and undeveloped areas.
Wetlands B and C have moderate potential at the site level to improve water quality (i.e., remove
toxins), as the abundance of persistent vegetation and seasonal ponding supports the removal
of nutrients, particularly nitrogen. Furthermore, Wetland C has a highly restricted outlet that
supports an even longer retention time of water than Wetland B, which has an intermittently
flowing outlet to Madsen Creek. The surrounding landscape has moderate potential to support
water quality functions in Wetlands B and C, because adjacent land consists of both
undeveloped forested upland and impervious surfaces on the church property that can generate
pollutants. The water quality functions provided by Wetland B and Wetland C have a high value
to society because the wetlands are located within a drainage basin with a Section 303(d)
impaired water (Ecology 2018b) and because of the potential to capture some of the high
sediment loading carried in Madsen Creek, which is the impetus for this study.
Wetlands B and C have moderate potential to reduce flooding and stream degradation at the
site level, as trapped water supplied by a small sized contributing basin drains to Madsen Creek
during high water events. The surrounding landscape has moderate potential to support
hydrologic functions because of the presence of impervious surfaces on the church property
that can generate excess runoff. The wetlands have a high value to society because they capture
surface water that may otherwise contribute to flooding down-gradient of them.
Wetlands B and C have a moderate potential for habitat at the site level. They have scrub-shrub
and forested communities with multiple strata that contain a moderate diversity of plant species
with few invasive plants. Some large downed woody debris within the wetlands provides habitat
for animal species. The wetlands have moderate potential for habitat on a landscape level due to
a large amount of moderate to high quality habitat that is fragmented. Habitat provided by the
site has a high value to society, because there are three priority habitats within 100 meters of
the wetlands (WDFW 2008).
Wetlands D, E, and F
The functions of Wetlands D, E, and F were evaluated based on their riverine HGM class. The
wetlands occur along Madsen Creek and receive water from overbank flooding. These wetlands
were grouped for this analysis due to their similarity in landscape position relative to developed
areas.
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Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 57
The presence of some depressions and trees/shrubs in the wetlands provide moderate potential
at the site level to improve water quality by filtering and trapping sediments and associated
pollutants. The surrounding landscape has a high potential to support water quality functions at
the wetland sites, because they are in an urban growth area (UGA) and adjacent land uses (e.g.,
roads) generate pollutants that enter the wetlands. The wetlands have a high value to society
because they drain into Madsen Creek, a tributary of the Cedar River, which is a Section 303(d)
impaired water (Ecology 2018b) and because of the potential to capture some of the high
sediment loading carried in Madsen Creek, which is the impetus for this study.
The wetlands have a low (Wetland F) to moderate (Wetlands D and E) potential to reduce
flooding and erosion at the site level, as they provide little storage capacity of flood waters, but
have a high cover of plants that can decrease flow velocities during floods. The surrounding
landscape, which is located in a UGA, has moderate (Wetland F) to high (Wetlands D and E)
potential to support hydrologic functions at the wetland sites. This is because the creek is
connected to its floodplain, allowing for retention of overbank flood waters (i.e., the stream
channel is not downcut in Wetlands D and E); the streamflow is not controlled by a dam(s),
which allows the wetlands to perform flood water attenuation functions, and a UGA is located
upgradient. The wetlands have a high value to society because they capture water that
otherwise would contribute to downgradient flooding, which is known to damage human and
natural resources.
The wetlands have a low (Wetlands E and F) to moderate (Wetland D) potential to provide
habitat, because they each have one to two vegetation classes and hydroperiods, which lend to
a low to moderate interspersion of habitats. The wetlands have a moderate to high richness of
plant species, and Wetlands D and E have multiple special habitat features (e.g., large, downed
woody debris and overhanging vegetation). The wetlands have a moderate potential for habitat
on a landscape level, due to a large percentage of moderate to high quality habitat that is
fragmented. Habitat provided by the sites is highly valuable to society as reflected by laws,
regulations or policies, because they provide habitat for threatened or endangered species, and
they are within an area mapped as a location for WDFW priority species, such as steelhead and
coho salmon.
Wetlands G, H, and I
The functions of Wetlands G, H, and I were evaluated based on their riverine HGM class. These
wetlands occur along Madsen Creek and primarily receive water from overbank flooding. These
wetlands were grouped for this analysis due to their similarity in landscape position relative to
developed and undeveloped areas.
The presence of trees/shrubs in Wetlands H and I provide moderate potential to improve water
quality by filtering and trapping sediments and associated pollutants; Wetland G has no
potential at the site level to improve water quality as is does not contain dense vegetation or
depressions. The surrounding landscape has a high potential to support water quality functions
at the sites, because their contributing basins are located in a UGA and adjacent land uses (e.g.,
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58 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
roads) generate pollutants that enter the wetlands. The wetlands have a high value to society
because they are located on Madsen Creek, a tributary of the Cedar River, which is a
Section 303(d) impaired water (Ecology 2018b) and because of the potential to capture some of
the high sediment loading carried in Madsen Creek, which is the impetus for this study.
These wetlands have a low to moderate potential to reduce flooding and erosion at the site
level, as they provide little storage capacity of flood waters (Wetlands G, H, and I), but have a
high cover of plants that can slow down flow velocities during floods (Wetlands H and I). The
surrounding landscape, which is in a UGA, has high potential to support hydrologic functions at
the sites, because the stream is connected to its floodplain, allowing for retention of overbank
flood waters (i.e., the stream channel is not downcut), and the streamflow is not controlled
upstream by a dam(s), which allows the wetlands to perform flood water attenuation functions.
The wetlands have a high value to society because they capture water that otherwise would
contribute to flooding downgradient, which is known to damage human and natural resources.
These wetlands have a low potential to provide habitat, because they each have relatively low
plant structure and one to two hydroperiods, which lend to a low to moderate interspersion of
habitats. The wetlands have a moderate richness of plant species and have multiple special
habitat features (e.g., large, downed woody debris, overhanging vegetation, and low invasive
plant cover). The wetlands have a moderate potential for habitat on a landscape level, due to a
large amount of moderate to high quality habitat that is fragmented. The habitat provided by
the sites has a high value to society because there are three priority habitats within 100 meters
of the wetlands (WDFW 2008), they provide habitat for threatened or endangered species, and
they are within an area mapped as a location for WDFW priority species, such as steelhead and
coho salmon.
S TREAM D ELINEATION AND R ECONNAISSANCE RESULTS
Stream characteristics, including a representative photograph within the delineation study area,
are summarized in Table 15. A wetland (Herrera 2013) is located within the high-flow bypass
channel (Reach H) (Figure 4). The delineated and estimated OHWM of the low-flow channel,
surveyed centerline for the high-flow bypass channel, and buffer widths are shown on
Figures 6-1 through 6-8. As the wetland and stream buffers overlap, only the most encumbering
buffer (or the outermost buffer) is shown as the critical area buffer on these figures.
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Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 59
Table 15. Summary of Madsen Creek Characteristics in the Study Area.
Stream Name Madsen Creek: high-flow bypass and low-flow channels
Location Madsen Creek drainage basin; Lower Cedar River drainage basin
Local
Jurisdiction
City of Renton,
unincorporated King
County
DNR
Stream Type
High-flow bypass
channel: F
Low-flow channel: F
Local
Stream Rating
Renton: F
(both channels)
King County: F (both
channels)
Local
Jurisdiction
Buffer Width
Renton: 115 feet
King County: 115 feet
Documented Fish Use The Madsen Creek low-flow channel has documented presence of fall Chinook
salmon, coho salmon, winter steelhead, resident cutthroat trout, and sockeye
salmon, and no salmonids have been documented in the high-flow bypass channel
(WDFW 2018a, 2018b).
Connectivity The headwater of Madsen Creek is Lake Desire, located upslope and southeast of
the study area (Figure 1). Two tributaries that appear to originate amid residential
development drain into Madsen Creek approximately 3,500 feet south of the study
area. Madsen Creek discharges into the Cedar River.
Riparian/Buffer Condition The riparian buffer of both channels is of low to moderate condition within the
study area. Nonnative invasive vegetation such as Himalayan blackberry, Japanese
knotweed, bittersweet nightshade, and ornamental jewelweed are growing adjacent
to the stream. These invasive plants outcompete native vegetation and provide little
bank stabilization compared to native riparian plants. The riparian forested and
scrub-shrub communities are dominated by red alder, red-osier dogwood, Oregon
ash, salmonberry, and willow species, in addition to the nonnative species
mentioned above. Riparian buffers are narrow within most of the study area, as the
stream and buffer are restricted by development and roads.
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60 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
S TREAM HABITAT A SSESSMENT R ESULTS
Madsen Creek is a heavily modified system resulting from intensive land development in much
of its drainage basin. The high-flow bypass channel was constructed in the historical stream
channel location in the study area, starting downstream of the sediment basin. There are
culverts along the high-flow channel beneath SR 169 and at the outlet to the river (two 4-foot-
diameter culverts) that were not designed to provide fish passage. The low-flow channel is
bordered by church playfields, residential properties, and roadways upstream of SR 169, and by
roadways, residential property, and park playfields downstream of SR 169 before converging
with Wetland A and joining the Cedar River. The following section summarizes the overall
physical channel, floodplain, and riparian habitat conditions based on review of available
information and field surveys at selected locations along the length of Madsen Creek. A
summary of the results of the qualitative assessment are presented in Appendix E, Table E-1.
Representative photographs of each reach are provided in Appendix F.
Physical Stream Habitat Conditions
The observed physical stream habitat conditions in the study area do not meet the habitat
conditions suitable for consistently supporting salmonid spawning and rearing. Substrate in the
low flow stream channel largely consists of sand and fines; stream complexity is generally poor;
functional LWD in the channel is lacking; banks are unstable; and floodplain connectivity is
limited. While dense vegetation is in the riparian corridor provides good cover, invasive species
are prevalent and hinder effective fish habitat cover and furthermore contribute to altered
stream ecology. While the overall habitat for fish is poor, some portions of the Madsen Creek
low-flow channel within the study area may be suitable for salmonid spawning and rearing but
these are fragmented and separated from other suitable habitat by long culverts and sections of
poor habitat. The habitat conditions as defined by various metrics are described below.
Channel Type
Stream reaches and habitat survey site locations are depicted in Figure 3. The low-flow channel
of Madsen Creek transitions from steeper reaches upstream to flatter reaches downstream,
beginning with a constructed step-pool channel type (Reach A) upstream of the sediment basin
and transitioning to dune/ripple and pool/riffle channel types (Reaches B and C) downstream.
These are alluvial channel types, typically driven by stream processes. Through the culverts and
under SR 169, the low-flow channel becomes a glide (Reach D) before transitioning to a dune-
ripple channel type (Reach E) and finally to a wetland near the confluence with the Cedar River
(Reach F, see description for Wetland A). Within the high-flow bypass channel (Reaches G
and H), the channel type is excavated/constructed. These reaches are inundated with water only
during high flows and cannot sustain suitable salmonid spawning and rearing habitat (such as
appropriate substrate and riparian condition).
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Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 61
Bankfull Dimensions and Channel Gradient
In general, Madsen Creek is narrow, confined, and has a low gradient in the study area. Except
for the sediment basin (Reach B) and lower reaches of Wetland A (Reach F), the bankfull width is
less than 15 feet. The bankfull depth is 2.5 feet or less throughout the length of the low-flow
channel. The channel gradient is highest in the step-pool habitat (4 to 8 percent) upstream of
the sediment basin (Reach A) but is otherwise low (1 to 2 percent in Reaches B, C.1, C.2, D.1, E.2,
G.2, and H; and less than 1 percent in Reaches C.3, C.4, D.2, E.1, F, and I).
Substrate Material, Embeddedness and Cementation
Channel substrates throughout the study area are dominated by sands and fines, with gravel
and cobble present only in the uppermost reaches (A.1, C.1, C.2, and C.3). Riffle substrate
becomes increasingly embedded moving from upstream (0 to 25 percent in A.1 through C.1;
25 to 50 percent in C.2; 50 to 75 percent in C.3) to downstream (75 to 100 percent in C.4
through I.1). Cementation is rated as “Good” to “Fair” in the upper reaches (A.1, C.1, C.2, C.3)
where gravels are present and mostly loose, and “Poor” in the lower reaches (the high-flow
bypass channel, and the ditch [C.4 through I.1]) where the substrate is dominated by sands and
fines. The substrate type, cementation, and embeddedness hinder salmonid spawning and
rearing. Suitable substrate material is found in the farthest upstream reaches (A.1 through C.2)
and downstream reaches (E.1 through F.3).
Physical Habitat Complexity
Consistent with LWD presence or absence (see description of functional LWD below), habitat
complexity in reaches with LWD rate as “Good” (A.1, C.4, F.1, F.2, F.3) to “Fair” (C.1, C.2, E.2, E.3)
according to the stream complexity metric; and habitat complexity in reaches that do not have
functional LWD rate as “Poor” (B.1, C.3, D.1, D.2, E.1, G.1 through I.1). The “Good” to “Fair” stream
complexity ratings are characterized by good riparian buffers (>50 feet vegetated), with some
presence and recruitment of LWD, unarmored and unconfined channel bed and banks, some
access to bedload gravels, and hydrologic connectivity to floodplains and wetlands. These
conditions support variable channel units (riffles, pools) and diverse microtopography (bars,
floodplain benches), which provide a variety of habitats under varying flow conditions and are
important for supporting spawning and/or rearing habitat for fish.
The type of and amount of fish cover and human influence vary significantly between reaches.
Fish cover in the upstream reaches (Reaches A, B, and C) consists mainly of overhanging
vegetation, undercut banks, and small (less than 4-inch-diameter woody organic debris). Human
influences in these reaches includes trash, culverts, paved roads close to the stream, and
clearings for residential development and park uses. Reach D has a significant amount of human
influence with the adjacent paved road, paved trail, culverts, trash, and a clearing for residential
development. Fish cover in Reach D is dominated by overhanging vegetation and undercut
banks. The fish cover in Reaches E and F includes undercut banks, overhanging vegetation,
aquatic macrophytes, roots of live trees, and small woody organic debris. Human influence
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62 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
decreases downstream of Reach D; but the paved road, park ballfields, nearby residences, and
fences near the stream hinder habitat in Reach E. The high-flow bypass reaches (Reaches G, H,
and I) lack fish cover and have very little overhanging vegetation. The high-flow bypass reaches
are influenced by many anthropogenic factors that degrade habitat, including culverts,
recreational fields, residential areas, fences, and paved roads.
The channel sinuosity varies slightly between reaches. The majority of the stream length in the
study area (Reaches A, B, C, and E) has low/minor sinuosity (1.0 to 1.2); the farthest downstream
reach of the low-flow channel in Wetland A (Reach F) has higher sinuosity (1.2 to 1.5); and
Reach D and the high-flow bypass channel reaches (Reaches G, H, and I) are straight (no
sinuosity) (1.0).
Functional LWD
Functional LWD, defined as woody material greater than 4 inches in diameter and 6 feet in
length, is lacking throughout much of the study area, with LWD present only in some reaches
(Reaches C, E, and F) of Madsen Creek. In several reaches there is neither enough LWD present
in the channel (Reaches A, B, D, G, H, and I) nor enough LWD recruitment potential (Reaches C,
D, E, F, G, H, and I) from the adjacent riparian area to qualify them as “properly functioning”
habitat. Therefore, reaches are classified as “at risk” (survey locations A.1, C.1, C.4, F.1, F.2, F.3) or
“not properly functioning” (survey locations B.1, C.2, C.3, D.1 through E.3, G.1 through I.1) based
on LWD presence. The lack of LWD limits channel resiliency to watershed or localized changes,
reduces the physical stream complexity, and limits the amount of cover and refuge for rearing
salmonids.
Bank Conditions
Bank conditions vary among reaches. Armored banks observed in Reaches A, H, and I have less
than 5 percent erosion and do not exhibit active erosion. Slightly unstable banks were observed
in Reach B and at survey sites C.1, F.1, and G, with less than 30 percent erosion and with active
erosion apparent on at least one bank. Moderately unstable banks, as observed at survey sites
C.2, C.3, C.4, D.1, E.2, E.3, F.2, and F.3, have between 30 to 60 percent erosion with active erosion
observed along both banks. Completely unstable banks, observed at survey sites D.2 and E.1,
show signs of bank failure and erosion along 60 and 100 percent of the bank, respectively, with
active erosion observed along both banks.
Fish Passage
Potential manmade fish passage barriers were examined in the field, including: four culverts in
the low-flow channel, three culverts in the high-flow bypass channel, and a potential fish
passage barrier upstream of the sediment basin. According to WDFW’s Fish Passage Application
(2018c), the sediment basin was last assessed for fish passage in 2003, and the culverts
downstream of it were last assessed in 2005 (WDFW 2018c). Therefore, the conditions of these
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Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 63
structures and their effects on fish passage may have changed since they were last assessed in
detail. In addition, the past assessments would not have been based on WDFW’s updated
guidance for the design of stream crossing structures in support of fish passage (Barnard et al.
2013).
Culverts conveying the low-flow channel of Madsen Creek include a 24-inch-diameter, 20-foot-
long culvert between Reaches B and C; an 8-foot-wide, 2-foot-high, 30-foot-long box culvert
between Reaches C and D; an 8-foot-wide, 3-foot-high, 120-foot-long box culvert in the middle
of Reach D; and a 24-inch-diameter 60-foot-long culvert between Reaches D and E. Eddies and
backwater areas were observed at the upstream end of culvert crossing SR 169 (between D.1
and D.2) and the upstream end of the culvert below 149th Avenue Southeast (between D.2 and
E.1) at the time of the stream habitat assessment, which occurred during base flow conditions.
While the box culverts appear to allow upstream fish passage, the length of the culverts and
hydraulic conditions during high-flow periods may render some or all of them impassable.
Although salmonids were observed upstream of culverts in the lower portions of Reach C, it was
not confirmed if these were anadromous salmonids.
The culverts conveying the high-flow bypass channel between Reaches B and G and between
Reaches G and H are both 3 feet high and 8 feet wide and are 75 feet and 130 feet long,
respectively. A third culvert located between the downstream end of Reach H and the Cedar
River was not accessible and therefore could not be assessed. A large weir located in the
upstream end of the culvert between Reaches B and G would prevent fish from entering the
culvert. Although the culverts along the high-flow bypass may be passable, the inherent flow
characteristics of this channel (conveying high flows only) probably inhibit passage. If fish are
unable to pass through the culverts at the high-flow bypass outlet to the river, they do not have
the opportunity to attempt to pass through culverts farther upstream.
Within Reach A, fish use is presumed according to WAC 222-16-031, as the 4 to 8 percent
gradient of Reach A would not restrict the movement of fish. Pool areas between log weirs may
offer some refuge during high flow conditions, but there is minimal fish cover that would
otherwise provide refuge, such as LWD or boulders. Despite a relatively low gradient in Reach A,
fish passage may be impeded during high flow conditions by the large height difference of the
step-pools that may exceed salmonid jump height capabilities; however, Reach A was not
observed during high flow events, and thus corresponding water surface elevation drops were
not measured. Reach A was noted as an area of possible high flow velocities and potentially
high water surface drops that could affect fish passage under various flow conditions.
Floodplain Conditions
The degree of floodplain connectivity varied widely between sites surveyed in the field
(Appendix E, Table E-1) and was correlated with the amount of available wetland habitat and the
channel gradient. Floodplain connectivity is rated “low” in the upstream reaches where the
channel gradient is high (A.1), in the sediment basin (B.1), in the channelized areas (D.1 and D.2),
in the high-flow bypass channel (G.1, G.2, H.1, H.2), and in the ditch (I.1). The floodplain
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64 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
connectivity rating is “medium” in the forested channel areas (C.1, C.2, C.3, C.4, E.1, E.2, E.3), and
high in Reach F within the Elliott Bridge mitigation site (F.1, F.2, F.3).
Riparian Habitat Conditions
Riparian habitat conditions vary widely among the sites and reaches evaluated in this
assessment. The results for each survey site are described below and presented in Appendix E,
Table E-1.
Vegetation Condition
Stream channel vegetative cover, which provides an indication of shading and temperature
abatement, ranged from 100 percent in intact forested areas to less than 10 percent in areas
where vegetation had been cleared on roadsides and near a road right-of-way (Appendix E,
Table E-1).
Adjacent to Reach A is a large mixed forest canopy that is dominated by mature trees (80 to
200 years old; >21 inches diameter at breast height) (WDFW 2008), including conifers (such as
western red cedar and Douglas fir) and mature deciduous trees (such as black cottonwood, red
alder, and big-leaf maple). Deciduous riparian stands are present throughout the middle reaches
(Reaches B, C, and E). These are dominated by red alder, black cottonwood, Pacific and Sitka
willow, and Oregon ash with an understory of red-osier dogwood, salmonberry, snowberry, and
vine maple.
Riparian vegetation along the high-flow bypass channel (Reaches G and H) and within Reach D
and Reach F along the low-flow channel is regularly maintained to prevent dense and tall
growth, and therefore the riparian habitat in these reaches is low functioning. Vegetation is
considered low functioning for habitat purposes when it does not provide fish cover via
overhanging the channel, does not contribute organic debris or forage material to the channel,
and/or does not have a well-developed canopy to provide shade for water temperature control.
The ditch along 149th Avenue Southeast (Reach I), which is also maintained through mowing
and is low functioning, consists of young forested or scrub/shrub riparian habitat along
residential clearings (see Herrera [2013] for a description of the ditched wetland). The results of
the vegetation condition assessment are provided in Appendix E, Table E-1.
Riparian habitat conditions are influenced by the high intensity development directly adjacent to
the stream channels and within the upper Madsen Creek watershed. Development activities in
the watershed have allowed for the introduction of nonnative species that are adapted to
frequent disturbance and can outcompete native vegetation. Invasive species were found along
the stream channel in all reaches and sites assessed. Common invasive species observed include
reed canarygrass, Himalayan blackberry, field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), Japanese
knotweed, bittersweet nightshade, tansy ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris), and ornamental jewelweed.
The presence of nonnative, invasive vegetation often results in loss of biodiversity, changes in
ecosystem function, and shifts in the trajectories of plant succession. Furthermore, invasive plant
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 65
species often provide poor conditions for fish habitat and movement. Himalayan blackberry and
Japanese knotweed form dense stands on stream banks in the study area; these species lack
deep roots that provide bank stability and furthermore do not contribute to woody debris
recruitment. Bittersweet nightshade, which was observed growing within the low flow stream
channel, can create dense mats of vegetation that may hinder or block fish passage and create
false gravel beds.
Riparian Width
Riparian buffers in the study area range from 0 feet (adjacent to and passing beneath SR 169) to
over 600 feet (Appendix E, Table E-1). Areas with wide, intact buffers coincide with the upstream
end of the study area where there is minimal development in close proximity to the creek
(Reach A) and the downstream end in Wetland A near the Elliott Bridge Reach mitigation site
(Reach F).
Upland Habitat Assessment and Wildlife Use
Despite the highly developed landscape, the biodiversity area and corridor (WDFW 2018a) south
of the study area and the Cedar River corridor to the north provide some connection to upland
habitats within the study area. A variety of habitats are located within the study area, such as
wetlands with emergent, scrub-shrub and forested vegetation classes, upland shrub and
forested areas, herbaceous grass communities, and forested riparian corridors along Madsen
Creek and the Cedar River (Figure 7).
The varied landscape provides habitat for birds, frogs, deer, small mammals adapted to urban
areas, and fish. Species directly observed or evidence of species observed in wetland and upland
areas during the field survey work include Anna’s hummingbird (Calypte anna), common
yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas), barn swallow (Hirundo rustica), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), a
woodpecker species, black-capped chickadee (Poecile atricapillus), Western wood-peewee
(Contopus sordidulus), Columbian black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus), beaver
(Castor canadensis), and garter snakes (Thamnophis sp.). Salmonids (Oncorhynchus spp.) were
observed in several reaches during the stream habitat assessment, both downstream and
upstream of the SR 169 crossing.
Cedar River
Madsen Creek High Flow ChannelKing County
Madsen Creek
King County
Wetland A(2013)
Wetland C(2013)
Wetland D(2013)
WonderlandEstates
Ron RegisPark
NewLifeChurch
Elliott Bridge ReachMitigation Site
Renton
Wetland H(2018)
Wetland G(2018)
Wetland C(2018)
Wetland B(2018)
Wetland D(2018)
Wetland A(2018)
Wetland E(2018)
Wetland F(2018)
Wetland I(2018)
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Figure 7.Vegetative Communities in the MadsenCreek Improvement Project Study Area.
E
Legend
Study area
Jurisdiction boundary
Wetland boundary
Estimated wetland boundary
Wetland area (HEC, 2018)
Wetland area (HEC, 2013)
Upland vegetative community
Riparian forest
Forested upland
Herbaceous upland
Restoration site
Scrub-shrub upland King County, Aerial (2017)
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 67
REGULATORY IMPLICATIONS
Regulations associated with wetlands and streams imposed by the federal government,
Washington State, the City of Renton, and King County will apply to any future flood reduction
project activities in the study area. Federal laws regulating wetlands and streams include
Sections 404 and 401 of the Clean Water Act (United States Code, Title 33, Chapter 1344
[33 USC 1344]). Washington State laws and programs designed to control the loss of wetland
acreage include the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA); Section 401 of the Clean Water Act
(administered in Washington by Ecology, as mandated by the Washington State Water Pollution
Control Act); and the state Hydraulic Code (WAC 220-110). Renton Municipal Code 4-3-050 and
King County Code 21A.24 specify wetland and stream categories, required buffer widths,
development standards, and mitigation requirements for critical areas within its jurisdiction.
The implications of these federal, state and local government regulations on potential future
project actions are described below.
C LEAN WATER ACT S ECTIONS 404 AND 401
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act regulates the placement or removal of soil or other fill,
grading, or alteration (hydrologic or vegetative) in waters of the United States, including
wetlands and streams (33 USC 1344). The Seattle District of the US Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE) administers the permitting program in Renton and throughout King County under the
act. Section 404 permits include nationwide (general) permits for projects involving small areas
of fill, grading, or alteration, and individual permits for projects that require larger areas of
wetland disturbance. USACE does not regulate wetland buffers. The time and resources required
to obtain a Section 404 permit are important considerations for any project subject to
Section 404 permitting, which is likely to be the case for any flood improvement action taken in
the Madsen Creek system. Permit applications require substantial effort (though the wetland
and stream delineation work documented in this report constitutes part of that effort), and it can
take more than a year to obtain a Section 404 permit from the USACE Seattle District upon
determination that an application is complete.
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act requires that proposed dredge (removal) and fill activities
permitted under Section 404 be reviewed and certified to ensure that such activities meet state
water quality standards. Section 401 certification is administered in Washington by Ecology for
all Section 404 permits. Certification is granted without the need for a separate permit from
Ecology for projects that qualify for a Section 404 nationwide permit, meet specific Section 401
certification conditions of the nationwide permit, and meet Ecology’s 401 General Conditions. If
those conditions are not met, Ecology requires an Individual Section 401 Water Quality
Certification permit. Obtaining a Section 401 certification from Ecology generally does not
September 2018
68 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
require much more time than is needed for the 404 permit from USACE (the reviews are linked),
and usually does not require extensive documentation of potential water quality impacts and
mitigation measures. The Section 401 certification review process is more of an administrative
step as compared to the Section 404 permit review process.
WASHINGTON STATE L AWS
Washington laws and programs designed to control the loss of wetland acreage include SEPA
and Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (a federal law that is implemented in the state by
Ecology, as noted above and as mandated by the Washington State Water Pollution Control
Act). The WDFW administers the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) program under the state
Hydraulic Code (WAC 220-110), which was specifically designed to protect fish life. An HPA is
required for projects that will use, divert, obstruct, or change the natural flow or bed of any of
the salt or fresh waters of the state.
Depending on the magnitude of a proposed flood reduction action(s), satisfying SEPA could
require a relatively low level of effort to prepare a SEPA environmental checklist or a substantial
effort if the action rises to a level of potential environmental impacts that triggers preparation of
an environmental impact statement (EIS). If a checklist suffices, the SEPA process can typically be
taken care of in 4 months or fewer, if no appeal is filed. If an EIS is needed, the SEPA process can
take up to a few years to complete. The types of actions that may be taken in the future to
reduce flooding along Madsen Creek can probably avoid the need for an EIS.
In addition to satisfying SEPA requirements, any action taken to reduce flooding in lower
Madsen Creek that alters the creek channel in any way below the ordinary high water level, or
otherwise affects flow conveyance in the creek, will require obtaining a HPA. It is common for
projects in streams to have to incorporate “habitat friendly” features (such as LWD) as a
condition(s) of the HPA. Compared to the time required to obtain a Section 404 permit from the
USACE, HPAs can be acquired much more quickly, as long as the project is designed in ways that
satisfy prevailing HPA conditions. A SEPA determination is required for a complete HPA
application.
C ITY OF RENTON CODE
The City of Renton requires buffers from wetland boundaries and the OHWM of streams
(RMC 4-3-050-G.2). Renton assigns wetland buffer widths based upon land uses, wetland rating
and habitat score. Stream buffers are assigned based on water type.
Wetlands A, B, C, E, F, G, H, and I are Category II wetlands with moderate habitat function scores,
and Wetland D is a Category I wetland with a moderate habitat score. Wetlands A, D, E, F, G,
and H are located in areas of “other land uses,” which are not low impact land uses. Wetlands B,
C, and I are located in areas of low impact land uses. Wetlands B, C, and I require a 100-foot
buffer width, while Wetlands D, E, F, G, and I require a 150-foot buffer width. Wetland A buffers
are discussed below under the shoreline code.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 69
The Madsen Creek low-flow channel is considered fish bearing. The high-flow bypass channel is
regulated under Renton code as a Type F stream, because it may potentially be used by fish
during high water events due to its connection to the Cedar River. A 115-foot buffer width
applies to both channel types. Within the reconnaissance study area, the approximate boundary
of the stream buffer of the high-flow bypass channel was derived based on the surveyed
centerline of the channel and LiDAR imagery, as opposed to delineating the OHWM along its
banks in the field. Stream buffer widths were applied to the LiDAR-estimated OWHM
(Figures 6-1 through 6-8).
The Cedar River is regulated by the City (and County) as a Shoreline of the State (Type S water).
Areas adjacent to the river are therefore within shoreline jurisdiction and are regulated by the
City of Renton Shoreline Master Program (SMP) (RMC 4-3-090). The Cedar River shoreline within
the study area is designated as Urban Conservancy, which aims to protect, conserve, restore, and
manage open space areas, floodplain, and other sensitive lands that are located in urban or
developed areas while allowing for compatible uses (Renton 2015). Wetlands within the City’s
shoreline jurisdiction are regulated under RMC 4-3-090.D.d. Wetland buffers are determined
based upon wetland category using the 2004 Ecology rating system (RMC 4-3-090.D.d.ii) and
habitat score as described earlier in this report. The entirety of Wetland A falls within the City’s
shoreline jurisdiction. As a Category II wetland with a high habitat score (31 points), Wetland A
requires a 225-foot buffer width under the SMP.
Streams within shoreline jurisdiction are regulated under Renton’s Critical Area Regulations
(RMC 4-3-050) except for provisions under RMC 4-3-0903D.c.ii, which do not apply in shoreline
jurisdiction (RMC 4-3-090.D.c.i). Therefore, the stream buffer width of 115 feet for Madsen Creek
also applies within the shoreline jurisdiction (Table 16).
Table 16. Stream Classifications and Buffer Widths in the
Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
Name
WDNR
Water Typea
City of
Renton
Water Typeb
King County
Water Typec
City of
Renton
Buffer Width
(feet)d
King County
Buffer Width
(feet)e
Madsen Creek
(low-flow channel)
F F F 115 115
Madsen Creek
(high-flow bypass channel)
F F F 115 115
a The Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) water typing system uses definitions outlined in the Washington
Administrative Code (WAC 222-16-031).
b The City of Renton types streams in accordance with RMC 4-3-050-G.7.a.
c King County stream types are classified in accordance with KCC 21A.24.355.
d Buffer widths classified for streams in Renton (RMC 4-3-050-G.2).
e Buffer widths classified for streams within a UGA in unincorporated King County (KCC 21A.24.358).
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70 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
A proposed flood reduction action(s) in lower Madsen Creek would almost certainly involve
impacts that trigger City and/or County stream and buffer protection requirements. These
requirements would trigger a need to incorporate “habitat friendly” project elements that
prevent degradation of the stream and/or buffer habitat, similar to what is needed to obtain a
HPA as described above.
KING C OUNTY CODE
King County requires both wetland and aquatic area (stream) buffers to protect ecological
functions and values. Determination of wetland buffers depends on factors such as its location
within or outside the UGA, habitat function level, and intensity of adjacent land use impact
(KCC 21A.24.325). Stream buffers as measured from the ordinary high water mark of the channel
are assigned based on location within or outside the UGA and stream type (KCC 21A.24.358).
Wetland A and Wetland E are located within unincorporated King County jurisdiction. As both
wetlands are located in a UGA, the standard buffer width applies. As documented in this report,
Wetlands A and E have 200-foot and 100-foot regulatory buffers, respectively.
The low-flow channel and high-flow channel of Madsen Creek are both classified as Type F
waters per County code, which have a standard buffer width of 115 feet.
Shoreline jurisdiction in King County is regulated within the study area as Conservancy Shoreline
and Residential Shoreline under King County’s Shoreline Master Program (SMP) (KCC 21A.25).
The purpose of the conservancy environmental designation is to conserve areas that are a high
priority for restoration and also provide recreational opportunities. The residential
environmental designation accommodates commercial and residential uses. Critical areas
located within shoreline jurisdiction are regulated by the King County’s critical area ordinance
(KCC 21A.24).
The regulatory implications of implementing a flood reduction project that impacts a wetland or
the high-flow bypass channel or associated buffer(s) in King County jurisdiction include the need
to incorporate features that prevent degradation of aquatic and/or upland habitat
characteristics, similar to what would be required for a project in the City’s jurisdiction.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton 71
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Accessed August 3, 2018. <http://wdfw.wa.gov/mapping/salmonscape/index.html>.
WDFW. 2018c. Washington State Fish Passage Map Application. Washington Department of Fish
and Wildlife. Accessed August 10, 2018.
<http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/habitat/fish_passage/data_maps.html>.
WDFW. 2018d. Washington State Species of Concern Lists. Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife. Accessed August 10, 2018.
<http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/endangered/lists/search.php?searchby=StateStatus&search=
SC&orderby=AnimalType>.
WDNR. 2018. Forest Practices Application Review System (FPARS). Washington Department of
Natural Resources. Accessed August 10, 2018. < https://www.dnr.wa.gov/programs-and-
services/forest-practices/forest-practices-application-review-system-fpars>
WFPB. 1997. Board Manual: Standard Methodology for Conducting Watershed Analysis. Under
Chapter 222-22 WAC. Version 4.0. Washington Forest Practices Board, Olympia, Washington.
November.
APPENDIX A
Wetland Delineation Methods
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WETLAND DELINEATION METHODS
The wetland delineation for the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Phase 1was performed in
accordance with the Regional Supplement to the US Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands
Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Environmental Laboratory
2010), which is consistent with the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual
(Environmental Laboratory 1987). These methods use a three-parameter approach for
identifying and delineating wetlands: the presence of field indicators for hydrophytic vegetation,
hydric soils, and hydrology. This wetland delineation was performed according to procedures
specified for the routine wetland determination method (Environmental Laboratory 1987).
H YDROPHYTIC VEGETATION
Hydrophytic vegetation is characterized by the ability to grow, effectively compete, reproduce,
and persist in anaerobic soil conditions resulting from periodic or long-term saturation
(Environmental Laboratory 1987). Vegetation must meet at least one of the four indicators
(described below) that are used to determine the presence of hydrophytic vegetation in
wetlands. Problematic and atypical situations for hydrophytic vegetation are also described in
the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) delineation manual and supplement (Environmental
Laboratory 1987, 2010).
Plant Species Identification
Plant species were identified using Flora of the Pacific Northwest (Hitchcock and Cronquist 1987)
and A Field Guide to the Common Wetland Plants of Western Washington and Northwestern
Oregon (Cooke 1997). The indicator status of each plant species is based on the National
Wetland Plant List (Lichvar 2016) for the Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region.
Dominant Species Determination
Dominant species are those that contribute more than other species to the character of a plant
community. To determine dominance, a vegetation sampling area is determined by the field
biologist to accurately characterize the plant community that occurs in the area to be evaluated.
These are commonly circular sampling areas, centered on the location of the test plot (where
soil and hydrologic data is also collected). The radius of the circle is determined in the field,
based on site conditions. In large wetlands, a typical sampling radius would be 2 to 5 meters for
tree and sapling/shrub species, and 1 meter for herbaceous species. In a small or narrow
wetland (or upland), the radius might be reduced to accurately sample wetland or upland areas,
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thereby avoiding an overlap into an adjacent community having different vegetation, soils, or
hydrologic conditions (Environmental Laboratory 2010).
Within the vegetation sampling area, a complete list of plant species that occur in the sampling
area is compiled and the species divided into four strata: tree, shrub (including saplings, see
criteria below), herb, and woody vines. A plant is included in the tree stratum if it is a woody
plant 3 inches in diameter at breast height (dbh) or greater; in the shrub stratum if it is a woody
plant less than 3 inches dbh (including tree saplings under 3 inches dbh); in the herb stratum if it
is an herbaceous (non-woody) plant; and in the woody vine stratum if it is a woody vine of any
height (Environmental Laboratory 2010). To be included in the sampling, 50 percent or more of
the plant base must be within the radius of the sampling area. For trees specifically, more than
50 percent of the trunk (diameter) must be within the sampling radius to be included.
A rapid test, dominance test (e.g., the 50/20 rule), or prevalence index are commonly used to
determine which species are considered dominant and to assess whether the criteria for
hydrophytic vegetation are met at each test plot (Environmental Laboratory 2010). Additional
hydrophytic vegetation indicators are discussed in the following section.
To conduct a rapid test (Indicator 1 on the wetland determination data form), the dominant
species are evaluated visually and if all are FACW or OBL, the vegetation data passes the rapid
test. To conduct a dominance test (Indicator 2 on the wetland determination data form), the
absolute areal coverage of the plant species within a stratum are totaled, starting with the most
abundant species and including other species in descending order of coverage, until the
cumulative coverage exceeds 50 percent of the total coverage for the stratum. The plant species
that constitute this first 50 percent of areal coverage are considered the dominant species in the
stratum. In addition, any other any single plant species that constitutes at least 20 percent of the
total percent cover in the stratum is also considered a dominant species (Environmental
Laboratory 2010). The indicator status category for each plant (shown in Table A-1) is also listed
on the wetland determination form. If more than 50 percent of the dominant species across all
strata are rated OBL, FACW, or FAC, the hydrophytic vegetation dominance test (Indicator 2) is
met.
The prevalence index (Indicator 3 on the wetland determination data form) is a weighted-
average wetland indicator status of all plant species in the sampling plot, where weighting is by
abundance (Environmental Laboratory 2010). This method is used where indicators of hydric soil
and wetland hydrology are present, but the vegetation initially fails the rapid and dominance
tests (Indicators 1 and 2). To determine the prevalence index, the absolute cover of each species
in each stratum is determined. All species (across all strata) are organized into wetland indicator
status groups (i.e., OBL, FACW, FAC, FACU, or UPL) and their cover values are summed within the
groups. The formula for the prevalence index is applied. If the prevalence index (which ranges
from 1.0 to 5.0) equals 3.0 or less, this hydrophytic vegetation indicator is met.
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Table A-1. Plant Indicator Status Categories.
Indicator Status
Indicator
Symbol Definition
Obligate wetland plants OBL Plants that occur almost always (estimated probability >99%) in
wetlands under natural conditions but also occur rarely (estimated
probability <1%) in upland areas
Facultative wetland plants FACW Plants that usually occur (estimated probability >67%) in wetlands under
natural conditions but also occur (estimated probability 1% to 33%) in
upland areas
Facultative plants FAC Plants with a similar likelihood (estimated probability 33% to 67%) of
occurring in both wetlands and upland areas
Facultative upland plants FACU Plants that sometimes occur (estimated probability 1% to 33%) in
wetlands but occur more often (estimated probability >67% to 99%) in
upland areas
Obligate upland plants UPL Plants that rarely occur (estimated probability <1%) in wetlands under
natural conditions
DRYUPLFACUFACFACWOBLWET→←−−−−
Source: Environmental Laboratory (1987).
Additional Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators
The presence of morphological adaptations to wetland conditions in plants that lack a published
hydrophytic vegetation indicator status or with an indicator status of FACU or drier is also a
hydrophytic vegetation indicator (Indicator 4). Evidence of physiological, morphological, or
reproductive adaptations indicating growth in hydrophytic conditions can include, but are not
limited to, buttressed roots, adventitious roots, multi-stemmed trunks, or tussocks. To determine
whether Indicator 4 is met, the morphological features must be observed on more than
50 percent of the individuals of a FACU species (or species without a published indicator status)
living in an area where hydric soil and wetland hydrology are present. On the wetland
determination data form, the indicator status of the species with morphological adaptations
would be changed to FAC (with supporting notes), and the dominance test (Indicator 2) and/or
prevalence index (Indicator 3) would then be recalculated.
Wetland non-vascular plants, referred to as bryophytes and consisting of mosses, liverworts, and
hornworts, may also meet the hydric vegetation criteria, under Indicator 5 (Environmental
Laboratory 2010). These plants must be present in areas containing hydric soils and wetland
hydrology. The percent cover of wetland specialist bryophytes is determined in 10-inch-by-
10-inch square plots placed at the base of hummocks, if present. The summed cover of wetland
specialist bryophytes must be more than 50 percent of the total bryophyte cover in the
vegetation sampling area.
The problematic hydrophytic vegetation indicator section in the USACE regional supplement
further explains how to interpret situations in which hydric soils and wetland hydrology are
present but hydrophytic vegetation Indicators 1 through 5 are lacking (Environmental
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Laboratory 2010). Procedures for looking at settings such as areas with active vegetation
management (e.g., farms), areas dominated by aggressive invasive species, active floodplains,
and low terraces are described, as well as explanations for specific situations, such as seasonal
shifts in plant communities, extended drought conditions, and riparian areas.
H YDRIC SOILS
A hydric soil is a soil that is saturated, flooded, or inundated long enough during the growing
season to develop anaerobic conditions that favor the growth and regeneration of hydrophytic
vegetation (Environmental Laboratory 1987, 2010). The evaluation of existing soil maps
(developed by the US Department of Agriculture [USDA] Natural Resources Conservation Service
[NRCS] and other sources) is used to understand hydric soil distribution and to identify the likely
locations of hydric soils (by verifying their inclusion on the hydric soils list). Comparison of these
mapped soils to conditions found on site help verify the presence of hydric soils.
For onsite soils characterization, hydric soils data were obtained generally by digging test pits at
least 20 inches deep and 4 inches wide. Hydric soil conditions were evaluated using indicators
outlined in Field Indicators of Hydric Soils in the United States (NRCS 2017) and adopted by the
Regional Supplement to the US Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual: Western
Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Environmental Laboratory 2010).
Hydric soil indicators applicable to the Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast region include,
but are not limited to, the presence of organic soils (i.e., histosols or histic epipedons); sulfidic
material (i.e., hydrogen sulfide); depleted, gleyed, or reduced soil matrices; and/or the presence
of iron or manganese concretions (Environmental Laboratory 2010). Soil color characterization
(i.e., hue, value, and chroma) is a critical tool in determining depleted, gleyed, and reduced soil
conditions. Soil color was evaluated by comparing soil colors at test plots to standardized color
samples in Munsell Soil Color Charts (Munsell Color 2000).
W ETLAND HYDROLOGY
Wetland hydrology is indicated by site conditions that demonstrate the periodic inundation or
saturation to the soil surface for a sufficient duration during the total growing season. A
sufficient duration during the growing season is defined as 14 or more consecutive days of
flooding, ponding, or presence of a water table at 12 inches or less from the soil surface
(Environmental Laboratory 2010). The growing season is the period of consecutive frost-free
days, or the longest period during which the soil temperature stays above biological zero (41°F),
when measured at 12 inches below the soil surface.
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Two indicators of biological activity can be used to determine whether the growing season has
begun and is ongoing (Environmental Laboratory 2010):
• Occurrence of aboveground growth and development of at least two non-evergreen
vascular plant species growing within the wetland. Examples of this growth include the
emergence or elongation of leaves on woody plants and the emergence or opening of
flowers.
• Soil temperature, which can be measured once during a single site visit, should be at
least 41°F or higher at a depth of 12 inches.
For this assessment, onsite hydrologic indicators were examined at the test plots. Primary
hydrologic indicators used in this delineation included the presence of surface water, standing
water in the test pit at a depth of 12 inches or less, saturation in the root zone at a depth of
12 inches or less, hydrogen sulfide odor, and oxidized rhizospheres surrounding living root. If at
least one primary hydrologic indicator is not present, two secondary hydrologic indicators are
required to confirm wetland hydrology. Secondary hydrologic indicators included saturation
visible on aerial imagery, geomorphic position, and FAC-neutral vegetation test.
A NTECEDENT PRECIPITATION ANALYSIS
Analyzing climatic conditions and local weather patterns are important in assessing vegetation,
soil conditions, and hydrology for wetland delineations (Environmental Laboratory 1987, 2010).
Information on precipitation that precedes a site visit is valuable in helping determine whether
conditions observed at a site are reflective of normal rainfall. The NRCS (1997) provides
methodology for the analysis of normal environmental conditions using antecedent rainfall
measurements. For this method, “normal precipitation” is defined as ranges of normal
precipitation or values falling within defined thresholds, in this case, the 30th and
70th percentile thresholds (Sprecher and Warne 2000). These ranges for a particular site are
provided by WETS tables, which can be accessed through the NRCS National Water and Climate
Center (NRCS 2018) and are calculated using long-term data (30 years) recorded at National
Weather Service meteorological stations. USDA WETS tables display monthly average rainfall
data (50th percentile) in addition to the upper and lower limits at which there is a 30 percent
chance that rainfall will be more or less than the average (30th and 70 percentiles) (NRCS 2017).
USDA WETS tables use climatological probabilities and are calculated on the basis of the most
recent three decades of data, as factors such as climate change and different recording
technologies may alter probabilities (Sprecher and Warne 2000). Currently, the 30-year range
from 1981 to 2010 is used. This method makes the assumptions that rainfall is evenly distributed
within a month, that antecedent precipitation can be properly evaluated for a 3-month period
(i.e., assumes that evapotranspiration is the same in each season), that antecedent precipitation
affects different systems similarly, and that snowmelt has the same contribution to hydrology as
rainfall (Sprecher and Warne 2000).
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To determine whether recent precipitation is reflective of normal precipitation, a representative
weather station near the site is selected; as other conditions may affect precipitation (e.g.,
elevation, aspect, and proximity to mountains), the nearest station may not be the most
representative of the site (Environmental Laboratory 2010). The procedure for determining
normal precipitation uses measured rainfall data from the 3 months prior to the month of the
site visit. For example, if the site visit occurs in September, precipitation data from June, July, and
August would be analyzed. The recorded rainfall of each month is first compared to the long
term range of normal precipitation (30th and 70th percentiles) and is determined to have a
“normal” condition if it falls within this range; if the recorded data is higher or lower than the
range, then it is determined to have a “wet” or “dry” condition, respectively. The condition is
then given a value, “1” for “dry,” “2” for “normal,” and “3” for “wet,” and this value is multiplied
by the weighted monthly value, where the most recent month (one month prior) is weighted
heavier (3) than 3 months prior (1). The sum of this product is then used to determine whether
the entire 3-month period is “drier than normal” (6–9), “normal” (10–14) or “wetter than normal”
(15–18). While this method is useful for comparing a short-term time period to normal, this
method is limited in that it discounts analysis of daily precipitation patterns within a given
month (Sprecher and Warne 2000, Sumner et al. 2009).
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REFERENCES
Cooke, S. 1997. A Field Guide to the Common Wetland Plants of Western Washington and
Northwest Oregon. Seattle Audubon Society and Washington Native Plant Society, Seattle,
Washington. June.
Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual. Technical
Report Y-87-1. US Army Corps of Engineers, Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg,
Mississippi. January.
Environmental Laboratory. 2010. Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetlands
Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region. Technical Report TR-08-13.
US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Wetlands Regulatory
Assistance Program, Vicksburg, Mississippi.
Hitchcock, C.L., and A. Cronquist. 1987. Flora of the Pacific Northwest. University of Washington
Press, Seattle, Washington.
Lichvar, R.W., D.L. Banks, W.N. Kirchner, and N.C. Melvin. 2016. The National Wetland Plant List:
2016 wetland ratings. Phytoneuron 2016-30:1–17. US Army Corps of Engineers. Accessed
June 27, 2016. <http://rsgisias.crrel.usace.army.mil/NWPL/>.
Munsell Color. 2000. Munsell Soil Color Charts. New Windsor, New York.
NRCS. 1997. Hydrology Tools for Wetland Determination. Chapter 19, Engineering field
handbook. D.E. Woodward, ed. USDA-NRCS, Fort Worth, Texas.
NRCS. 2017. Field Indicators of Hydric Soil in the United States, Version 8.1. L.M. Vasilas,
G.W. Hurt, and J.F. Berkowitz, eds. US Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources
Conservation Service, in cooperation with the National Technical Committee for Hydric Soils.
NRCS. 2018. Agricultural Applied Climate Information System. US Department of Agriculture,
Natural Resources Conservation Service. Accessed January 25, 2018.
<https://efotg.sc.egov.usda.gov/efotg_locator.aspx>.
Sprecher, S., and A. Warne. 2000. Accessing and Using Meteorological Data to Evaluate Wetland
Hydrology. Technical Report TR-WRAP-00-01. US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research
and Development Center, Operations Division Regulatory Branch, Vicksburg, Mississippi. April.
Sumner, J.P., M.J. Vepraskas, and R.K. Kolka. 2009. Methods to Evaluate Normal Rainfall for
Short-term Wetland Hydrology Assessment. Wetlands 29(3):1049–1062.
APPENDIX B
Stream Habitat Assessment Methods
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STREAM HABITAT ASSESSMENT METHODS
The stream habitat assessment provides a qualitative assessment of physical channel elements.
This field survey focused on the physical stream habitat, floodplain conditions, riparian habitat
conditions, and human influences. Upland habitat types and wildlife observations were also
noted. The stream habitat assessment was completed for representative sample locations
selected for each reach of Madsen Creek and the high-flow bypass channel (See Table 1 and
Figure 3 in the report). Observations were made from walking the stream channel within each
sample location.
Physical Stream Habitat
Herrera selected specific proven protocols for describing the geomorphic and habitat conditions
of a representative subsample of Madsen Creek stream reaches. The protocols have been used
successfully in other rapid channel assessments in the Puget Sound lowland region, and for
other developing watersheds in Western Washington and Oregon.
Channel Type
Stream types were classified based primarily on the Montgomery and Buffington (1997) process-
based classification system. Channel types include cascade, step pool, plane bed, pool/riffle,
dune/ripple, bedrock, and colluvial. Additional channel types were added to describe channel
types typically found in urban areas like Madsen Creek that do not fit into the Montgomery and
Buffington’s (1997) classification system or other typical stream classification systems (e.g.,
Rosgen 1996). These additional channel types (defined below) include: excavated/constructed,
glide – cohesive rectangular, impounded, wetland, and other. Forced channel types, such as
riffle/pool or step pool created by the placement of large woody debris (LWD) in the channel
were classified as that basic channel type, and description of the significant morphological
influence of the LWD or another forcing factor were noted.
• Excavated/constructed. A channel reach that has been mechanically altered or
constructed. It has not been formed by natural processes of erosion and deposition. This
channel type may or may not be engineered, and bed/bank material may consist of
natural material (fines, sand, gravel, cobble, boulder) or imported material (riprap,
blasted bedrock, gabion baskets, concrete). Excavated or constructed channel typically
consist of highly simplified planform (straight, with clear angle changes) and cross-
sectional geometry (rectangular or trapezoidal). Constructed channels are not necessarily
stable.
• Glide – cohesive rectangular. This channel type is defined as having a stable, single-
thread, low gradient, low-sinuosity (<1.2) channel with vertical, fine-grained cohesive
banks and a low width-depth ratio.
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• Impounded. A stream reach that is influenced by manmade dams where the backwater
effect of the dam obscures a defined channel or effects geomorphic processes
significantly enough to impact channel process and form.
• Wetland. A wetland reach (either natural or constructed) is a stream reach with
undefined or poorly defined channel. This channel type is common in headwater reaches.
Wetland channel types are not fluvial or alluvial and are dominated by wetlands and/or
vegetation instead of fluvial process. (This definition of wetland does not correspond to
the definition by the US Army Corps of Engineers (Environmental Laboratory 1987, 2010),
which is used for wetland delineations and not stream channel classifications).
• Other. A channel or stream reach that cannot be classified based on the above choices.
An example of this type might include naturally impounded areas formed by beaver
activity.
Bankfull Channel Width and Bankfull Channel Depth
Bankfull channel width (BFW) and bankfull depth (BFD) were measured at intervals through a
geomorphic reach and approximately average values were recorded. Bankfull width is defined as
the distance perpendicular to the channel between bankfull stage indicators of the right and left
banks (for a single thread channel). Bankfull depth is defined as the vertical distance from the
channel thalweg (deepest point on a cross section) to the bankfull stage (Harrelson et al. 1994).
BFW and BFD were measured at different locations along the stream profile depending on the
stream’s channel type. Bankfull depth was measured at riffles in the riffle/pool or plane bed
channels, and at runs or glides on step pool, cascade, dune/ripple, rectangular glide, or bedrock
channels. Excavated/constructed channels do not have a true, natural bankfull width and depth
that relates to the hydrology and geology of the system. In cases where excavated/constructed
channels were encountered, they were treated as plane bed channels and bankfull channel
dimensions were recorded at uniform riffles.
Before channel width and depth was measured, the bankfull stage was determined. For the
purposes of this qualitative stream survey, we assumed that the bankfull stage defines the active
channel and does not include portions of the overbank and floodplain. The Ordinary High Water
Mark (OHWM) stage may or may not be equivalent to the bankfull stage (Anderson et al. 2016).
Bankfull width and depth measurements in the field were completed using combinations of
typical indicators described in several commonly cited references (Harrelson et al. 1994; Rosgen
1996). Typical bankfull indicators include:
• Clear, natural scour lines on the bank.
• The lowest extent of persistent woody vegetation.
• The presence of a floodplain at the elevation of incipient flooding.
• Changes in vegetation communities.
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• The top of the zone of washed roots.
• Break in slope of the bank.
• The lowest extent of lichen or moss on bedrock or bank boulders.
• Bank undercuts.
• Change in particle size of bank material (e.g., the boundary between cobble and fines).
• Elevation of the highest deposition features, such as point bars.
In instances where actively incising or widening channels did not exhibit clear bankfull
indicators, the field staff measured the depth to the top of the bank, as indicated in a break in
slope from bank to floodplain surface.
Channel Gradient
Channel gradient was estimated as the local water surface slope using a clinometer over each of
the assessed reaches.
Substrate Material
Substrate material is an important metric for determining the suitability of a habitat for salmonid
spawning and rearing. For example, reaches with a primary substrate of gravel are more likely to
be suitable for spawning in riffles and pool tail-outs (Groot and Margolis 1991). Primary and
secondary stream bed substrate were classified for all geomorphic reaches. Visual estimates
were made based on relative surface area covered by different size classes of sediment. Primary
substrate refers to the most common size class; secondary substrate refers to the second most
common size class. Primary and secondary stream bed substrate were categorized using the
protocol shown in Table B-1.
Table B-1. Substrate Material Categories.
Category Size Class Size Class Comparison
Fines <62 µm, estimated Non-gritty
Sand 63 µm to 2 mm Gritty to ladybug
Gravel 2 mm to 1.25 inch Ladybug to tennis ball
Cobble 1.25 inch to 10 inch Tennis ball to basketball
Boulder >10 inch Basketball to car
Bedrock Non-alluvial bedrock Larger than car
Cohesive fines Non-alluvial erosion-resistant clays Hardened fines
Source: Ecology 2006
µm = micrometer
mm = millimeter
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Physical Habitat Complexity
Physical habitat complexity is important for determining a habitats’ suitability for supporting fish
habitat and includes fish cover and the amount of human influence. A metric of physical habitat
complexity, based on the metric developed by McBride (2001), is a measure used to
distinguished between a channel that is naturally diverse with riffles and pools and one that has
become uniform and simplified through natural or anthropogenic influence. The metric uses
classifications of excellent, good, fair, and poor to assess whether the physical channel
conditions were consistent with the existing and designated beneficial uses, which include
salmon spawning and rearing habitat.
• “Excellent” channel reaches are diverse with complex structures. They show variety in
channel units (pools, riffles, glides) and have side channel and/or debris jams. The
channel has microtopography and variable channel geometry.
• “Good” channel reaches are less diverse and complex structure. They have some variety
in channel units, but less frequent side channels and/or debris jams. The reaches show
some heterogeneity in microtopography and channel geometry.
• “Fair” channel reaches show little diversity or complexity in structure. They show little
variety in channel units and have very few side channels and/or debris jams. There is little
heterogeneity in microtopography and channel geometry.
• “Poor” channel reaches are simple in structure and show no variety in channel units.
These reaches have no side channels or debris jams and very little variety in channel
geometry. They have homogenous microtopography.
Although the physical habitat complexity metric is qualitative and subjective, the same observer
applied the rank to all reaches; therefore, the results should be consistent for use in this analysis.
The type and amount of fish cover was estimated for each stream reach. Types of fish cover
include filamentous algae, macrophytes (emergent, submergent or floating vegetation), woody
debris (greater than 1 foot), brush/wood (less than 1 foot), live trees or roots, overhanging
vegetation over the stream, undercut banks, boulders, artificial structures, and bryophytes.
The human influence metric is based on the presence or absence of defined types of
anthropogenic features observed along each stream reach. Types of human influence include
buildings, clearing/lot, human foot path, landfill/trash, logging, mining, park/lawn, pasture,
paved road/railroad, pipes (inlet/outlet), row crops, unpaved trail for motorized vehicles, and
wall/dike/riprap.
A stream’s sinuosity is its tendency to move laterally within a floodplain channel, often creating
an S-shaped pattern over time. Channel sinuosity is another metric on physical habitat
complexity. Sinuosity was estimated visually based on the following categories.
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•Straight (1.0) – this rating was reserved for excavated/constructed channels
•Low (1.0 to 1.2)
•Medium (1.2 to 1.5)
•High (>1.5)
Due to the tight confines and dense vegetation typically encountered on the surveyed reaches,
it was impractical to take more specific measurements of sinuosity.
Functional Large Woody Debris
Functional LWD, defined as woody material greater than 4-inches in diameter and 6-feet in
length, is an important component of fish habitat, creates habitat diversity and complexity. Large
wood within the channel will collect and sort substrate, create pools and riffles, and provide
cover for fish. Each representative reach was rated on the amount of functional LWD present in
the channel. Reaches were described using protocol that combined components of existing
LWD protocols from the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS 1996) matrix of Pathways and
Indicators based on several LWD studies (Ralph et al. 1994; Beechie and Sibley 1997; Fox and
Bolton 2007). Reaches were categorized based on the function LWD criteria in Table B-2.
Table B-2. Functional LWD Criteria.
Rating Criteria
Properly Functioning
BFW 0 to 20 feet: Approximately one piece every 8 to 10 feet of channel.
BFW 20 to 100 feet: Approximately one piece every 5 to 6 feet of channel.
To classify as LWD, pieces must exceed 4 inches in diameter and 6 feet in length. In
addition, the reach must have an adequate source for LWD recruitment in the adjacent
riparian area.
At Risk
Meets LWD quantity requirements for classification as Properly Functioning but lacks
adequate sources of LWD recruitment in adjacent riparian areas to maintain the
standard.
Not Properly Functioning
Does not meet LWD quantity requirements for classification as Properly Functioning or
At Risk. Reach may or may not have an adequate source for LWD recruitment in the
adjacent riparian areas. When sources for LWD recruitment were present, this
information was recorded in the notes.
Note. Adapted from National Marine Fisheries Service (1996) Matrix of Pathways and Indicators.
BFW = Bankfull width
LWD = large woody debris
Riffle Gravel Embeddedness
The embeddedness of gravel in riffles is an indicator of the fine sediment that is present in the
creek bed. Fine sediment in urban creeks is often the result of upstream bank erosion or outfalls
carrying fine sediments and dust from roads. The embeddedness of gravels in a riffle was
September 2018
B-6 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
determined by estimating the percent of the perimeters of random cobbles and gravels (located
along the longitudinal profile) surrounded by fine sediment. The overall embeddedness for each
reach was then grouped into one of four categories: 0 to 25 percent, 25 to 50 percent, 50 to
75 percent, and greater than 75 percent (McBride 2001; Ecology 2006).
Riffle Gravel Cementation
An abundance of fine sediments can cause “cementation” of substrates, which can impede redd
construction by salmonids. The degree of cementation of riffle gravels was measured by
examining the hardening and compaction of the substrate. The methodology for describing
riffle gravel cementation was adapted from Comings et al. (2000) and McBride (2001)
(Table B-3).
Table B-3. Riffle Gravel Cementation.
Classification Description
Poor
Gravel and cobbles are cemented throughout riffle (concrete-like).
Very difficult to penetrate riffle surface.
A lot of fine material released downstream with heel pressure (rich plume).
Fair
Gravel and cobbles are compacted and tight (perhaps only loose at the downstream end of
a riffle).
Considerable effort needed to penetrate the riffle surface.
Substantial fine material released with heel pressure.
Good
Gravel and cobbles are tight, but still loose at the downstream end of the riffle.
Some effort needed to penetrate riffle surface.
Some fine material released with heel pressure.
Excellent
Gravel and cobbles are loose throughout the riffle.
Very easy to penetrate riffle surface with heel pressure.
Very little fine material released with heel pressure.
Source: Adapted from Comings et al., 2000; and McBride 2001.
Bank Conditions
Bank conditions were characterized by documenting observations of active bank erosion,
estimating the percent eroded banks, and by using a bank stability classification metric.
Active bank erosion was assessed using the following conditions:
• None – little or no bank erosion documented on reach.
• Left bank – bank erosion concentrated on the left bank.
• Right bank – bank erosion concentrated on the right bank.
• Both banks – active bank erosion documented on both banks.
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton B-7
Bank erosion was characterized using the bank stability protocol from the Environmental
Protection Agency’s Rapid Bioassessment Protocols for use in Streams and Wadeable Rivers
(US EPA 1999).
The percent stream bank erosion was classified using the following categories (US EPA 1999):
• Optimal – less than 5 percent eroded banks.
• Suboptimal – 5 to 30 percent eroded banks.
• Marginal – 30 to 60 percent eroded banks.
• Poor – 60 to 100 percent eroded banks.
Bank stability was characterized using a protocol developed by Henshaw and Booth (2000) and
summarized by Scholz and Booth (2001) in which a stream reach is classified as stable, slightly
unstable, moderately unstable, or completely unstable based on indicators such as bank
vegetation, undercutting/erosion/scalloping, exposed tree roots, and downed trees. An
additional category, forced stable, was included to describe banks that have been stabilized by
unnatural processes such as armoring with riprap (Table B-4).
Table B-4. Streambank Stability Classification Criteria.
Category Class Description
Stable 4
Perennial vegetation to waterline.
No raw or undercut banks (some erosion on outside of meander bends OK).
No recently exposed roots.
No recent tree falls.
Slightly
Unstable 3
Perennial vegetation to waterline in most places.
Some scalloping of banks.
Minor erosion and/or bank undercutting.
Recently exposed tree roots rare but present.
Moderately
Unstable 2
Perennial vegetation to waterline sparse (mainly scoured or stripped by lateral
erosion).
Bank held by hard points (trees, boulders) and eroded bank elsewhere.
Extensive erosion and bank undercutting.
Recently exposed tree roots and fine root hairs common.
Completely
Unstable 1
No perennial vegetation at waterline.
Banks held only by hard points.
Severe erosion of both banks.
Recently exposed tree roots common.
Tree falls and/or severely undercut trees common.
Source: Henshaw and Booth 2001.
September 2018
B-8 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Riparian Habitat Conditions
Riparian habitat conditions were assessed by noting the vegetation type and condition and the
riparian width, by describing the type of fish cover present, and by noting upland habitat
conditions.
Vegetation Condition
The qualitative assessment of vegetation condition within the representative reaches includes an
assessment of vegetation type, tree size, and stand density of the riparian corridor (Table B-5).
Presence of invasive species was noted at each sampling station.
Table B-5. Riparian Vegetation Condition.
Vegetation Types
Conifer Mostly conifer trees (>70% of the area)
Deciduous Mostly deciduous trees (>70% of the area)
Mixed Mixed conifer/deciduous trees
Brush Shrub/brush species (>70% of the area), including blackberry vines
Grass Grass/meadow (>70% of the area)
None No riparian vegetation (>70% of the area)
Tree Size Classes
Regeneration <4-inch average diameter at breast height (DBH)
Small 4- to 12-inch average DBH
Large >12-inch average DBH
Nonforest Applies to vegetation Brush, Grass, and None
Stand Density
Dense <1/3 ground exposed
Sparse >1/3 ground exposed
Nonforest Applies to vegetation Brush, Grass, and None
Source: Adapted from WFPB 1997 and OWEB 1999.
Riparian Width
The width of the riparian corridor was estimated using a scale on aerial images, and the
corresponding riparian width category was selected as Narrow (<25 feet wide), Medium (25 to
50 feet wide), and Wide (>50 feet wide). When wider than 50 feet, an approximate width is
provided (WFPB 1997; OWEB 1999).
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton B-9
REFERENCES
Beechie, T.J., and T.H. Sibley. 1997. Relationships between channel characteristics, woody debris,
and fish habitat in northwestern Washington streams. Transactions of the American Fisheries
Society 126:217–229.
Comings, K., H. Wachter, T. Garrido, and D. Booth. 2000. 1998–1999 Facilities and Resources
Monitoring Report for Blakely and Redmond Ridge Urban Planned Developments. Prepared for
King County, Department of Natural Resources, Water and Land Resources Division, Seattle,
Washington, by the Center for Urban Water Resources Management, University of Washington,
Seattle, Washington.
Ecology. 2006. Status and Trends Monitoring for Watershed Health and Salmon Recovery:
Quality Assurance Monitoring Plan. Washington State Department of Ecology Publication
No. 06-03-203. December.
Fox, M., and S. Bolton. 2007. A Regional and Geomorphic Reference for Quantities and Volumes
of Instream Wood in Unmanaged Forested Basins of Washington State. North American Journal
of Fisheries Management 27:342–359.
Groot, C., and L. Margolis. 1991. Pacific Salmon Life Histories. University of British Columbia
Press, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Harrelson, C.C., C.L. Rawlins, and J.P. Potyondy. 1994. Stream channel reference sites: An
illustrated guide to field technique. General Technical Report RM-245. US Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station, For Collins,
Colorado.
Henshaw, P. and D. Booth. 2000. Natural restabilization of stream channels in urban watersheds.
Journal of the American Water Resources Association 36(6):1219–1236.
McBride, M. 2001. Spatial effects of urbanization on physical conditions in Puget Sound lowland
streams. Master’s Thesis, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
Montgomery, D.R., and J.M. Buffington. 1997. Channel-reach morphology in mountain drainage
basins. GSA Bulletin 109(5):596–611.
OWEB. 1999. Component V Riparian/Wetlands Assessment. Oregon Watershed Enhancement
Board, Salem, Oregon.
Ralph, S.C., G.C. Poole, L.L. Conquest, and R.J. Naiman. 1994. Stream channel morphology and
woody debris in logged and unlogged basins of western Washington. Canadian Journal of
Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences 51:37–51.
Rosgen, D. 1996. Applied River Morphology. Wildland Hydrology, Pagosa Spring, Colorado.
September 2018
B-10 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton
Sholz, J.G., and D.B. Booth. 2001. Monitoring small urban streams: Strategies and protocols for
humid-region lowland systems. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment 71(2):143–164.
US EPA. 1999. Rapid Bioassessment Protocols for Use in Streams and Wadeable Rivers.
US Environmental Protection Agency, 841-B-99-002.
WFPB. 1997. Board Manual: Standard Methodology for Conducting Watershed Analysis. Under
Chapter 222-22 WAC. Version 4.0. Washington Forest Practices Board. Olympia, Washington.
November.
APPENDIX C
Wetland Rating Forms and Figures
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
Name of wetland (or ID #): Date of site visit: 6/19/2018
Rated by Trained by Ecology? Yes No Date of training 2015 Oct.
HGM Class used for rating Wetland has multiple HGM classes? Yes No
NOTE: Form is not complete with out the figures requested (figures can be combined ).
Source of base aerial photo/map
OVERALL WETLAND CATEGORY II (based on functions or special characteristics )
1. Category of wetland based on FUNCTIONS
Category I - Total score = 23 - 27 Score for each
X Category II - Total score = 20 - 22 function based
Category III - Total score = 16 - 19 on three
Category IV - Total score = 9 - 15 ratings
(order of ratings
is not
important )
L H 9 = H, H, H
M L 8 = H, H, M
HHTotal 7 = H, H, L
7 = H, M, M
6 = H, M, L
6 = M, M, M
5 = H, L, L
5 = M, M, L
4 = M, L, L
3 = L, L, L
2. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
XNone of the above
Coastal Lagoon
Interdunal
Value
Score Based on
Ratings 76720
H
CHARACTERISTIC Category
Estuarine
Wetland of High Conservation Value
Bog
Mature Forest
Old Growth Forest
Depressional & Flats
RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington
List appropriate rating (H, M, L)
HydrologicImproving
Water Quality
MSite Potential
Landscape Potential
Habitat
M
FUNCTION
Madsen Creek - Wetland A
Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear
King County aerial (2017)
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 1 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
Maps and Figures required to answer questions correctly for
Western Washington
Depressional Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes C1
Hydroperiods C7
Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods )C7
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )C7
Map of the contributing basin C12
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) C19
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) C20
Riverine Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Ponded depressions
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure )
Map of the contributing basin
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Lake Fringe Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Slope Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
(can be added to another figure )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
To answer questions:
D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4
D 1.4, H 1.2
D 1.1, D 4.1
D 2.2, D 5.2
D 4.3, D 5.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
D 3.1, D 3.2
D 3.3
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
R 1.1
R 2.4
R 1.2, R 4.2
R 4.1
R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 1.2
L 2.2
L 3.1, L 3.2
L 3.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
R 3.1
R 3.2, R 3.3
To answer questions:
L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4
S 3.1, S 3.2
S 3.3
S 4.1
S 2.1, S 5.1
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
S 1.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
C14
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 2 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
For questions 1 -7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides except during floods?
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe - go to 1.1
1.1 Is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NO - 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 unit meet all of the following criteria?
NO - go to 4 YES - The wetland class is Lake Fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ),
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
NO - go to 5 YES - The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years.
NO - go to 6 YES - The wetland class is Riverine
NOTE: The Riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
If hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1 - 7 apply, and go to
Question 8.
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m).
HGM Classification of Wetland in Western Washington
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands.
If it is Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is an Estuarine wetland and is not scored. This method cannot be
used to score functions for estuarine wetlands.
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
plants on the surface at any time of the year) at least 20 ac (8 ha) in size;
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.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow
depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 ft deep).
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding
from that stream or river,
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 3 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
NO - go to 7 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NO - go to 8 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS:
7. Is the entire wetland unit 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.
8. 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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE
HYDROLOGIC 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 the wetland unit being scored.
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at
some time during the year? This means that any outlet, if present, is higher than the interior of the wetland.
Riverine
Treat as
ESTUARINE
Slope + Lake Fringe
Depressional + Riverine along stream
within boundary of depression
Depressional + Lake Fringe
Riverine + Lake Fringe
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 HGM class listed in column 2 is less than 10%
of the unit; classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area.
HGM classes within the wetland unit
being rated
Slope + Riverine
Slope + Depressional
Depressional
Depressional
If you are still unable to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or if you have more than
2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other
class of freshwater wetland
HGM class to
use in rating
Riverine
Depressional
Lake Fringe
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 4 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
D 1.1. Characteristics of surface water outflows from the wetland:
points = 3
points = 2
points = 1
points = 1
Yes = 4 No = 0
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed, plants > 95% of area points = 5
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed, plants > ½ of area points = 3
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed plants > 1/10 of area points = 1
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed plants < 1/10 of area points = 0
D 1.4. Characteristics of seasonal ponding or inundation:
This is the area that is ponded for at least 2 months. See description in manual.
Area seasonally ponded is > ½ total area of wetland points = 4
Area seasonally ponded is > ¼ total area of wetland points = 2
Area seasonally ponded is < ¼ total area of wetland points = 0
Total for D 1 Add the points in the boxes above 8
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
D 2.1. Does the wetland unit receive stormwater discharges? Yes = 1 No = 0 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
D 2.3. Are there septic systems within 250 ft of the wetland? Yes = 1 No = 0 0
Source Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for D 2 Add the points in the boxes above 2
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 or 4 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for D 3 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
D 3.3. Has the site been identified in a watershed or local plan as important
for maintaining water quality (answer YES if there is a TMDL for the basin in
which the unit is found )?
D 1.2. The soil 2 in below the surface (or duff layer) is true clay or true organic
(use NRCS definitions ).
D 1.3. Characteristics and distribution of persistent plants (Emergent, Scrub-shrub, and/or
Forested Cowardin classes):
D 2.4. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are
not listed in questions D 2.1 - D 2.3?
D 3.1. Does the wetland discharge directly (i.e., within 1 mi) to a stream, river,
lake, or marine water that is on the 303(d) list?
D 2.2. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that
generate pollutants?
D 3.2. Is the wetland in a basin or sub-basin where an aquatic resource is on the 303(d) list?
D 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society?
1
1
2
0
5
DEPRESSIONAL AND FLATS WETLANDS
1
1
Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality
D 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality?
1
Wetland has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet
that is permanently flowing
Wetland has an intermittently flowing stream or ditch, OR highly
constricted permanently flowing outlet.
Wetland is a depression or flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key)
with no surface water leaving it (no outlet).
Wetland is a flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key), whose outlet is
a permanently flowing ditch.
2
D 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 5 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
D 4.1. Characteristics of surface water outflows from the wetland:
points = 4
points = 2
points = 1
points = 0
Marks of ponding are 3 ft or more above the surface or bottom of outlet points = 7
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
The wetland is a “headwater” wetland points = 3
Wetland is flat but has small depressions on the surface that trap water points = 1
Marks of ponding less than 0.5 ft (6 in)points = 0
The area of the basin is less than 10 times the area of the unit points = 5
The area of the basin is 10 to 100 times the area of the unit points = 3
The area of the basin is more than 100 times the area of the unit points = 0
Entire wetland is in the Flats class points = 5
Total for D 4 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
D 5.1. Does the wetland unit receive stormwater discharges? Yes = 1 No = 0 0
D 5.2. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that generate excess runoff?
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for D 5 Add the points in the boxes above 1
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
points = 2
points = 1
Flooding from groundwater is an issue in the sub-basin. points = 1
points = 0
There are no problems with flooding downstream of the wetland. points = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for D 6 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
1
0
D 5.3. Is more than 25% of the contributing basin of the wetland covered with intensive human
land uses (residential at >1 residence/ac, urban, commercial, agriculture, etc.)?
The existing or potential outflow from the wetland is so constrained
by human or natural conditions that the water stored by the wetland
cannot reach areas that flood. Explain why
2
2
3
D 4.2. Depth of storage during wet periods: Estimate the height of ponding above the bottom of
the outlet. For wetlands with no outlet, measure from the surface of permanent water or if dry, the
deepest part.
D 4.3. Contribution of the wetland 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.
D 6.1. The unit is in a landscape that has flooding problems. Choose the description that best
matches conditions around the wetland unit being rated. Do not add points. Choose the highest
score if more than one condition is met.
D 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood
conveyance in a regional flood control plan?
Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that the site functions to reduce flooding and stream degradation
D 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion?
0
Wetland is a depression or flat depression with no surface water
leaving it (no outlet)
Wetland has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet
that is permanently flowing
Wetland has an intermittently flowing stream or ditch, OR highly
constricted permanently flowing outlet
Wetland is a flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key), whose outlet is
a permanently flowing ditch
0
D 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support hydrologic function of the site?
D 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society?
The wetland captures surface water that would otherwise flow down-gradient into areas
where flooding has damaged human or natural resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds):
Flooding occurs in a sub-basin that is immediately down-
gradient of unit.
Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-
gradient.
DEPRESSIONAL AND FLATS WETLANDS
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 6 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat
H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat?
Aquatic bed 4 structures or more: points = 4
Emergent 3 structures: points = 2
Scrub-shrub (areas where shrubs have > 30% cover)2 structures: points - 1
Forested (areas where trees have > 30% cover)1 structure: points = 0
If the unit has a Forested class, check if :
H 1.2. Hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present: points = 3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present: points = 2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present: points = 1
Saturated only 1 types present: points = 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
H 1.3. Richness of plant species
If you counted: > 19 species points = 2
5 - 19 species points = 1
< 5 species points = 0
H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats
None = 0 points Low = 1 point Moderate = 2 points
All three diagrams
in this row are
HIGH = 3 points
3
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime
has to cover more than 10% of the wetland or ¼ ac to count (see text for descriptions of
hydroperiods ).
3
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2.Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do
not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple
loosestrife, Canadian thistle 2
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion among Cowardin plants classes
(described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats)
is high, moderate, low, or none. If you have four or more plant classes or three classes and open
water, the rating is always high.
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes.
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
4
H 1.1. Structure of plant community: Indicators are Cowardin classes and strata within the
Forested class. Check the Cowardin plant classes in the wetland. Up to 10 patches may be
combined for each class to meet the threshold of ¼ ac or more than 10% of the unit if it is smaller
than 2.5 ac. Add the number of structures checked.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 7 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
H 1.5. Special habitat features:
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long)
Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland
Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 17
Rating of Site Potential If Score is: 15 - 18 = H 7 - 14 = M 0 - 6 = L Record the rating on the first page
H 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the habitat function of the site?
H 2.1 Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit ).
Calculate:
13 % undisturbed habitat + ( 4 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 15%
If total accessible habitat is:
> 1/3 (33.3%) of 1 km Polygon points = 3
20 - 33% of 1 km Polygon points = 2
10 - 19% of 1 km Polygon points = 1
< 10 % of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.2. Undisturbed habitat in 1 km Polygon around the wetland.
Calculate:
29 % undisturbed habitat + ( 11 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 34.5%
Undisturbed habitat > 50% of Polygon points = 3
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and in 1-3 patches points = 2
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and > 3 patches points = 1
Undisturbed habitat < 10% of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.3 Land use intensity in 1 km Polygon: If
> 50% of 1 km Polygon is high intensity land use points = (-2)
≤ 50% of 1km Polygon is high intensity points = 0
Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above 0
Rating of Landscape Potential If Score is: 4 - 6 = H 1 - 3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page
Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2
It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)
It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species
Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) with in 100m points = 1
Site does not meet any of the criteria above points = 0
Rating of Value If Score is: 2 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number
of points.
It has been categorized as an important habitat site in a local or
regional comprehensive plan, in a Shoreline Master Plan, or in a
watershed plan
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft (2 m) and/or overhanging plants extends
at least 3.3 ft (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the wetland, for at
least 33 ft (10 m)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 weathered where wood is exposed )
At least ¼ ac of thin-stemmed persistent plants or woody branches are present in areas
that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians )
5
It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the
Department of Natural Resources
2
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see
H 1.1 for list of strata )
1
1
-2
H 3.0. Is the habitat provided by the site valuable to society?
H 3.1. Does the site provide habitat for species valued in laws, regulations, or policies? Choose
only the highest score that applies to the wetland being rated .
It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant
or animal on the state or federal lists)
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 8 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.
Priority habitats listed by WDFW (see complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in
which they can be found, in: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Priority Habitat and Species
List. Olympia, Washington. 177 pp.
Oregon White Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy
coverage of the oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158 – see
web link above ).
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 form of a
dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161 – see web link above ).
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 – see web link on previous page ).
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 > 20 in (51 cm) in western Washington and are > 6.5 ft (2 m) in height. Priority logs are > 12
in (30 cm) in diameter at the largest end, and > 20 ft (6 m) long.
Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.5 - 6.5 ft (0.15 - 2.0 m),
composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May
be associated with cliffs.
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.
Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are
addressed elsewhere.
WDFW Priority Habitats
Count how many of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft (100 m) of the wetland unit: NOTE : This
question is independent of the land use between the wetland unit and the priority habitat.
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 ).
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 8 trees/ac (20 trees/ha)
> 32 in (81 cm) dbh or > 200 years of age. Mature forests – Stands with average diameters
exceeding 21 in (53 cm) dbh; crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of
snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80-200
years old west of the Cascade crest.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00165/wdfw00165.pdf or access the list from here:
http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 9 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. List the category when the appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0. Estuarine Wetlands
Does the wetland 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 1.1 No = Not an estuarine wetland
SC 1.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2.Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV)
SC 2.1.
Yes - Go to SC 2.2 No - Go to SC 2.3
SC 2.2. Is the wetland listed on the WDNR database as a Wetland of High Conservation Value?
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 2.3. Is the wetland in a Section/Township/Range that contains a Natural Heritage wetland?
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf
Yes - Contact WNHP/WDNR and to SC 2.4 No = Not WHCV
SC 2.4.
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 3.0. Bogs
SC 3.1.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No - Go to SC 3.2
SC 3.2.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog
SC 3.3.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No - Go to SC 3.4
SC 3.4.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog
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 in deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the plant species in Table 4 are present,
the wetland is a bog.
Is an area with peats or mucks forested (> 30% cover) with Sitka spruce, subalpine fir,
western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Engelmann
spruce, or western white pine, AND any of the species (or combination of species) listed
in Table 4 provide more than 30% of the cover under the canopy?
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Is the wetland 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?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing,
and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. (If non-native species are
Spartina , see page 25)
At least ¾ 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 two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with
open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation
Value and listed it on their website?
Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list
of Wetlands of High Conservation Value?
Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation
in bogs? Use the key below. If you answer YES you will still need to rate the
wetland based on its functions .
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soil horizons, either peats or mucks,
that compose 16 in or more of the first 32 in of the soil profile?
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are
less than 16 in deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic
ash, or that are floating on top of a lake or pond?
Does an area with peats or mucks have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground
level, AND at least a 30% cover of plant species listed in Table 4?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 10 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland A
SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands
Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section
SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
Yes - Go to SC 5.1 No = Not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1. Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions?
The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2)
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
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
Yes - Go to SC 6.1 No = Not an interdunal wetland for rating
SC 6.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 6.2
SC 6.2. Is the wetland 1 ac or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 ac or larger?
Yes = Category II No - Go to SC 6.3
SC 6.3.
Yes = Category III No = Category IV
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing),
and has less than 20% cover of aggressive, opportunistic plant species (see list of
species on p. 100).
At least ¾ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft buffer of shrub, forest, or un-
grazed or un-mowed grassland.
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland
based on its habitat functions.
Is the wetland 1 ac or larger and scores an 8 or 9 for the habitat functions on the form
(rates H,H,H or H,H,M for the three aspects of function)?
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 ac, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and
1 ac?
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 ponded 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 bottom )
Does the wetland have at least 1 contiguous acre of forest that meets one of these
criteria for the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife’s forests as priority habitats? If you
answer YES you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests (west of Cascade crest): Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/ac
(20 trees/ha) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height
(dbh) of 32 in (81 cm) or more.
Mature forests (west of the Cascade Crest): Stands where the largest trees are 80-
200 years old OR the species that make up the canopy have an average diameter (dbh)
exceeding 21 in (53 cm).
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 11 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
Name of wetland (or ID #): Date of site visit: 6/15/2018
Rated by Trained by Ecology? Yes No Date of training 10/15, 3/15
HGM Class used for rating Wetland has multiple HGM classes? Yes No
NOTE: Form is not complete with out the figures requested (figures can be combined ).
Source of base aerial photo/map
OVERALL WETLAND CATEGORY III (based on functions or special characteristics )
1. Category of wetland based on FUNCTIONS
Category I - Total score = 23 - 27 Score for each
X Category II - Total score = 20 - 22 function based
Category III - Total score = 16 - 19 on three
Category IV - Total score = 9 - 15 ratings
(order of ratings
is not
important )
M M 9 = H, H, H
M M 8 = H, H, M
HHTotal 7 = H, H, L
7 = H, M, M
6 = H, M, L
6 = M, M, M
5 = H, L, L
5 = M, M, L
4 = M, L, L
3 = L, L, L
2. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
X
Depressional & Flats
RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington
List appropriate rating (H, M, L)
HydrologicImproving
Water Quality
MSite Potential
Landscape Potential
Habitat
M
FUNCTION
Madsen Creek - Wetland B
Anna Hoenig, Shelby Petro
King County Aerial (2017)
Coastal Lagoon
Interdunal
Value
Score Based on
Ratings 77721
H
CHARACTERISTIC Category
Estuarine
Wetland of High Conservation Value
Bog
Mature Forest
Old Growth Forest
None of the above
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 1 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
Maps and Figures required to answer questions correctly for
Western Washington
Depressional Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes C6
Hydroperiods C6
Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods )C6
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )C6
Map of the contributing basin C13
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) C19
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) C20
Riverine Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Ponded depressions
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure )
Map of the contributing basin
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Lake Fringe Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Slope Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
(can be added to another figure )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
C17
S 3.1, S 3.2
S 3.3
S 4.1
S 2.1, S 5.1
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
S 1.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 3.1, L 3.2
L 3.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
R 3.1
R 3.2, R 3.3
To answer questions:
L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
R 1.1
R 2.4
R 1.2, R 4.2
R 4.1
R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 1.2
L 2.2
D 1.1, D 4.1
D 2.2, D 5.2
D 4.3, D 5.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
D 3.1, D 3.2
D 3.3
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
To answer questions:
D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4
D 1.4, H 1.2
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 2 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
For questions 1 -7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides except during floods?
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe - go to 1.1
1.1 Is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NO - 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 unit meet all of the following criteria?
NO - go to 4 YES - The wetland class is Lake Fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ),
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
NO - go to 5 YES - The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years.
NO - go to 6 YES - The wetland class is Riverine
NOTE: The Riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands.
If it is Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is an Estuarine wetland and is not scored. This method cannot be
used to score functions for estuarine wetlands.
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
plants on the surface at any time of the year) at least 20 ac (8 ha) in size;
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.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow
depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 ft deep).
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding
from that stream or river,
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
HGM Classification of Wetland in Western Washington
If hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1 - 7 apply, and go to
Question 8.
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m).
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 3 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
NO - go to 7 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NO - go to 8 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS:
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other
class of freshwater wetland
HGM class to
use in rating
Riverine
Depressional
Lake Fringe
If you are still unable to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or if you have more than
2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Riverine
Treat as
ESTUARINE
Slope + Lake Fringe
Depressional + Riverine along stream
within boundary of depression
Depressional + Lake Fringe
Riverine + Lake Fringe
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 HGM class listed in column 2 is less than 10%
of the unit; classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area.
HGM classes within the wetland unit
being rated
Slope + Riverine
Slope + Depressional
Depressional
Depressional
7. Is the entire wetland unit 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.
8. 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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE
HYDROLOGIC 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 the wetland unit being scored.
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at
some time during the year? This means that any outlet, if present, is higher than the interior of the wetland.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 4 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
D 1.1. Characteristics of surface water outflows from the wetland:
points = 3
points = 2
points = 1
points = 1
Yes = 4 No = 0
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed, plants > 95% of area points = 5
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed, plants > ½ of area points = 3
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed plants > 1/10 of area points = 1
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed plants < 1/10 of area points = 0
D 1.4. Characteristics of seasonal ponding or inundation:
This is the area that is ponded for at least 2 months. See description in manual.
Area seasonally ponded is > ½ total area of wetland points = 4
Area seasonally ponded is > ¼ total area of wetland points = 2
Area seasonally ponded is < ¼ total area of wetland points = 0
Total for D 1 Add the points in the boxes above 11
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
D 2.1. Does the wetland unit receive stormwater discharges? Yes = 1 No = 0 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
D 2.3. Are there septic systems within 250 ft of the wetland? Yes = 1 No = 0 0
Source Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for D 2 Add the points in the boxes above 1
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 or 4 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for D 3 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
1
0
Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality
D 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality?
2
Wetland has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet
that is permanently flowing
Wetland has an intermittently flowing stream or ditch, OR highly
constricted permanently flowing outlet.
Wetland is a depression or flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key)
with no surface water leaving it (no outlet).
Wetland is a flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key), whose outlet is
a permanently flowing ditch.
4
D 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site?
DEPRESSIONAL AND FLATS WETLANDS
D 3.3. Has the site been identified in a watershed or local plan as important
for maintaining water quality (answer YES if there is a TMDL for the basin in
which the unit is found )?
D 1.2. The soil 2 in below the surface (or duff layer) is true clay or true organic
(use NRCS definitions ).
D 1.3. Characteristics and distribution of persistent plants (Emergent, Scrub-shrub, and/or
Forested Cowardin classes):
D 2.4. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are
not listed in questions D 2.1 - D 2.3?
D 3.1. Does the wetland discharge directly (i.e., within 1 mi) to a stream, river,
lake, or marine water that is on the 303(d) list?
D 2.2. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that
generate pollutants?
D 3.2. Is the wetland in a basin or sub-basin where an aquatic resource is on the 303(d) list?
D 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society?
1
1
2
0
5
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 5 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
D 4.1. Characteristics of surface water outflows from the wetland:
points = 4
points = 2
points = 1
points = 0
Marks of ponding are 3 ft or more above the surface or bottom of outlet points = 7
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
The wetland is a “headwater” wetland points = 3
Wetland is flat but has small depressions on the surface that trap water points = 1
Marks of ponding less than 0.5 ft (6 in)points = 0
The area of the basin is less than 10 times the area of the unit points = 5
The area of the basin is 10 to 100 times the area of the unit points = 3
The area of the basin is more than 100 times the area of the unit points = 0
Entire wetland is in the Flats class points = 5
Total for D 4 Add the points in the boxes above 10
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
D 5.1. Does the wetland unit receive stormwater discharges? Yes = 1 No = 0 0
D 5.2. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that generate excess runoff?
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for D 5 Add the points in the boxes above 1
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
points = 2
points = 1
Flooding from groundwater is an issue in the sub-basin. points = 1
points = 0
There are no problems with flooding downstream of the wetland. points = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for D 6 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
DEPRESSIONAL AND FLATS WETLANDS
D 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society?
The wetland captures surface water that would otherwise flow down-gradient into areas
where flooding has damaged human or natural resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds):
Flooding occurs in a sub-basin that is immediately down-
gradient of unit.
Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-
gradient.
Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that the site functions to reduce flooding and stream degradation
D 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion?
2
Wetland is a depression or flat depression with no surface water
leaving it (no outlet)
Wetland has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet
that is permanently flowing
Wetland has an intermittently flowing stream or ditch, OR highly
constricted permanently flowing outlet
Wetland is a flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key), whose outlet is
a permanently flowing ditch
5
D 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support hydrologic function of the site?
1
0
D 5.3. Is more than 25% of the contributing basin of the wetland covered with intensive human
land uses (residential at >1 residence/ac, urban, commercial, agriculture, etc.)?
The existing or potential outflow from the wetland is so constrained
by human or natural conditions that the water stored by the wetland
cannot reach areas that flood. Explain why
2
2
3
D 4.2. Depth of storage during wet periods: Estimate the height of ponding above the bottom of
the outlet. For wetlands with no outlet, measure from the surface of permanent water or if dry, the
deepest part.
D 4.3. Contribution of the wetland 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.
D 6.1. The unit is in a landscape that has flooding problems. Choose the description that best
matches conditions around the wetland unit being rated. Do not add points. Choose the highest
score if more than one condition is met.
D 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood
conveyance in a regional flood control plan?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 6 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat
H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat?
Aquatic bed 4 structures or more: points = 4
Emergent 3 structures: points = 2
Scrub-shrub (areas where shrubs have > 30% cover)2 structures: points - 1
Forested (areas where trees have > 30% cover)1 structure: points = 0
If the unit has a Forested class, check if :
H 1.2. Hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present: points = 3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present: points = 2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present: points = 1
Saturated only 1 types present: points = 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
H 1.3. Richness of plant species
If you counted: > 19 species points = 2
5 - 19 species points = 1
< 5 species points = 0
H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes.
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
2
H 1.1. Structure of plant community: Indicators are Cowardin classes and strata within the
Forested class. Check the Cowardin plant classes in the wetland. Up to 10 patches may be
combined for each class to meet the threshold of ¼ ac or more than 10% of the unit if it is smaller
than 2.5 ac. Add the number of structures checked.
None = 0 points Low = 1 point Moderate = 2 points
All three diagrams
in this row are
HIGH = 3 points
1
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime
has to cover more than 10% of the wetland or ¼ ac to count (see text for descriptions of
hydroperiods ).
1
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2.Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do
not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple
loosestrife, Canadian thistle 1
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion among Cowardin plants classes
(described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats)
is high, moderate, low, or none. If you have four or more plant classes or three classes and open
water, the rating is always high.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 7 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
H 1.5. Special habitat features:
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long)
Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland
Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 7
Rating of Site Potential If Score is: 15 - 18 = H 7 - 14 = M 0 - 6 = L Record the rating on the first page
H 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the habitat function of the site?
H 2.1 Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit ).
Calculate:
23 % undisturbed habitat + ( 9 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 27.5%
If total accessible habitat is:
> 1/3 (33.3%) of 1 km Polygon points = 3
20 - 33% of 1 km Polygon points = 2
10 - 19% of 1 km Polygon points = 1
< 10 % of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.2. Undisturbed habitat in 1 km Polygon around the wetland.
Calculate:
37 % undisturbed habitat + ( 23 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 48.5%
Undisturbed habitat > 50% of Polygon points = 3
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and in 1-3 patches points = 2
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and > 3 patches points = 1
Undisturbed habitat < 10% of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.3 Land use intensity in 1 km Polygon: If
> 50% of 1 km Polygon is high intensity land use points = (-2)
≤ 50% of 1km Polygon is high intensity points = 0
Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If Score is: 4 - 6 = H 1 - 3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page
Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2
It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)
It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species
Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) with in 100m points = 1
Site does not meet any of the criteria above points = 0
Rating of Value If Score is: 2 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
2
1
0
H 3.0. Is the habitat provided by the site valuable to society?
H 3.1. Does the site provide habitat for species valued in laws, regulations, or policies? Choose
only the highest score that applies to the wetland being rated .
It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant
or animal on the state or federal lists)
It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the
Department of Natural Resources
2
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see
H 1.1 for list of strata )
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft (2 m) and/or overhanging plants extends
at least 3.3 ft (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the wetland, for at
least 33 ft (10 m)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 weathered where wood is exposed )
At least ¼ ac of thin-stemmed persistent plants or woody branches are present in areas
that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians )
2
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number
of points.
It has been categorized as an important habitat site in a local or
regional comprehensive plan, in a Shoreline Master Plan, or in a
watershed plan
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 8 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00165/wdfw00165.pdf or access the list from here:
http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/
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.
Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are
addressed elsewhere.
WDFW Priority Habitats
Count how many of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft (100 m) of the wetland unit: NOTE : This
question is independent of the land use between the wetland unit and the priority habitat.
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 ).
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 8 trees/ac (20 trees/ha)
> 32 in (81 cm) dbh or > 200 years of age. Mature forests – Stands with average diameters
exceeding 21 in (53 cm) dbh; crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of
snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80-200
years old west of the Cascade crest.
Priority habitats listed by WDFW (see complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in
which they can be found, in: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Priority Habitat and Species
List. Olympia, Washington. 177 pp.
Oregon White Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy
coverage of the oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158 – see
web link above ).
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 form of a
dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161 – see web link above ).
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 – see web link on previous page ).
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 > 20 in (51 cm) in western Washington and are > 6.5 ft (2 m) in height. Priority logs are > 12
in (30 cm) in diameter at the largest end, and > 20 ft (6 m) long.
Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.5 - 6.5 ft (0.15 - 2.0 m),
composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May
be associated with cliffs.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 9 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. List the category when the appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0. Estuarine Wetlands
Does the wetland 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 1.1 No = Not an estuarine wetland
SC 1.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2.Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV)
SC 2.1.
Yes - Go to SC 2.2 No - Go to SC 2.3
SC 2.2. Is the wetland listed on the WDNR database as a Wetland of High Conservation Value?
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 2.3. Is the wetland in a Section/Township/Range that contains a Natural Heritage wetland?
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf
Yes - Contact WNHP/WDNR and to SC 2.4 No = Not WHCV
SC 2.4.
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 3.0. Bogs
SC 3.1.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No - Go to SC 3.2
SC 3.2.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog
SC 3.3.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No - Go to SC 3.4
SC 3.4.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog
Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation
Value and listed it on their website?
Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list
of Wetlands of High Conservation Value?
Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation
in bogs? Use the key below. If you answer YES you will still need to rate the
wetland based on its functions .
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soil horizons, either peats or mucks,
that compose 16 in or more of the first 32 in of the soil profile?
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are
less than 16 in deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic
ash, or that are floating on top of a lake or pond?
Does an area with peats or mucks have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground
level, AND at least a 30% cover of plant species listed in Table 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 in deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the plant species in Table 4 are present,
the wetland is a bog.
Is an area with peats or mucks forested (> 30% cover) with Sitka spruce, subalpine fir,
western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Engelmann
spruce, or western white pine, AND any of the species (or combination of species) listed
in Table 4 provide more than 30% of the cover under the canopy?
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Is the wetland 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?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing,
and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. (If non-native species are
Spartina , see page 25)
At least ¾ 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 two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with
open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 10 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland B
SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands
Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section
SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
Yes - Go to SC 5.1 No = Not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1. Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions?
The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2)
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
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
Yes - Go to SC 6.1 No = Not an interdunal wetland for rating
SC 6.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 6.2
SC 6.2. Is the wetland 1 ac or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 ac or larger?
Yes = Category II No - Go to SC 6.3
SC 6.3.
Yes = Category III No = Category IV
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form
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 ponded 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 bottom )
Does the wetland have at least 1 contiguous acre of forest that meets one of these
criteria for the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife’s forests as priority habitats? If you
answer YES you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests (west of Cascade crest): Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/ac
(20 trees/ha) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height
(dbh) of 32 in (81 cm) or more.
Mature forests (west of the Cascade Crest): Stands where the largest trees are 80-
200 years old OR the species that make up the canopy have an average diameter (dbh)
exceeding 21 in (53 cm).
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing),
and has less than 20% cover of aggressive, opportunistic plant species (see list of
species on p. 100).
At least ¾ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft buffer of shrub, forest, or un-
grazed or un-mowed grassland.
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland
based on its habitat functions.
Is the wetland 1 ac or larger and scores an 8 or 9 for the habitat functions on the form
(rates H,H,H or H,H,M for the three aspects of function)?
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 ac, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and
1 ac?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 11 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
Name of wetland (or ID #): Date of site visit: 6/15/2018
Rated by Trained by Ecology? Yes No Date of training 10/15, 3/15
HGM Class used for rating Wetland has multiple HGM classes? Yes No
NOTE: Form is not complete with out the figures requested (figures can be combined ).
Source of base aerial photo/map
OVERALL WETLAND CATEGORY II (based on functions or special characteristics )
1. Category of wetland based on FUNCTIONS
Category I - Total score = 23 - 27 Score for each
X Category II - Total score = 20 - 22 function based
Category III - Total score = 16 - 19 on three
Category IV - Total score = 9 - 15 ratings
(order of ratings
is not
important )
M M 9 = H, H, H
M M 8 = H, H, M
HHTotal 7 = H, H, L
7 = H, M, M
6 = H, M, L
6 = M, M, M
5 = H, L, L
5 = M, M, L
4 = M, L, L
3 = L, L, L
2. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
X
Depressional & Flats
RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington
List appropriate rating (H, M, L)
HydrologicImproving
Water Quality
MSite Potential
Landscape Potential
Habitat
M
FUNCTION
Madsen Creek - Wetland C
Anna Hoenig, Shelby Petro
King County aerial 2017
Coastal Lagoon
Interdunal
Value
Score Based on
Ratings 77721
H
CHARACTERISTIC Category
Estuarine
Wetland of High Conservation Value
Bog
Mature Forest
Old Growth Forest
None of the above
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 1 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
Maps and Figures required to answer questions correctly for
Western Washington
Depressional Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes C6
Hydroperiods C6
Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods )C6
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )C6
Map of the contributing basin C13
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) C19
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) C20
Riverine Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Ponded depressions
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure )
Map of the contributing basin
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Lake Fringe Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Slope Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
(can be added to another figure )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
C17
S 3.1, S 3.2
S 3.3
S 4.1
S 2.1, S 5.1
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
S 1.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 3.1, L 3.2
L 3.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
R 3.1
R 3.2, R 3.3
To answer questions:
L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
R 1.1
R 2.4
R 1.2, R 4.2
R 4.1
R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 1.2
L 2.2
D 1.1, D 4.1
D 2.2, D 5.2
D 4.3, D 5.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
D 3.1, D 3.2
D 3.3
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
To answer questions:
D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4
D 1.4, H 1.2
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 2 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
For questions 1 -7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides except during floods?
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe - go to 1.1
1.1 Is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NO - 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 unit meet all of the following criteria?
NO - go to 4 YES - The wetland class is Lake Fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ),
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
NO - go to 5 YES - The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years.
NO - go to 6 YES - The wetland class is Riverine
NOTE: The Riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands.
If it is Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is an Estuarine wetland and is not scored. This method cannot be
used to score functions for estuarine wetlands.
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
plants on the surface at any time of the year) at least 20 ac (8 ha) in size;
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.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow
depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 ft deep).
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding
from that stream or river,
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
HGM Classification of Wetland in Western Washington
If hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1 - 7 apply, and go to
Question 8.
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m).
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 3 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
NO - go to 7 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NO - go to 8 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS:
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other
class of freshwater wetland
HGM class to
use in rating
Riverine
Depressional
Lake Fringe
If you are still unable to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or if you have more than
2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Riverine
Treat as
ESTUARINE
Slope + Lake Fringe
Depressional + Riverine along stream
within boundary of depression
Depressional + Lake Fringe
Riverine + Lake Fringe
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 HGM class listed in column 2 is less than 10%
of the unit; classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area.
HGM classes within the wetland unit
being rated
Slope + Riverine
Slope + Depressional
Depressional
Depressional
7. Is the entire wetland unit 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.
8. 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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE
HYDROLOGIC 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 the wetland unit being scored.
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at
some time during the year? This means that any outlet, if present, is higher than the interior of the wetland.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 4 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
D 1.1. Characteristics of surface water outflows from the wetland:
points = 3
points = 2
points = 1
points = 1
Yes = 4 No = 0
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed, plants > 95% of area points = 5
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed, plants > ½ of area points = 3
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed plants > 1/10 of area points = 1
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed plants < 1/10 of area points = 0
D 1.4. Characteristics of seasonal ponding or inundation:
This is the area that is ponded for at least 2 months. See description in manual.
Area seasonally ponded is > ½ total area of wetland points = 4
Area seasonally ponded is > ¼ total area of wetland points = 2
Area seasonally ponded is < ¼ total area of wetland points = 0
Total for D 1 Add the points in the boxes above 11
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
D 2.1. Does the wetland unit receive stormwater discharges? Yes = 1 No = 0 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
D 2.3. Are there septic systems within 250 ft of the wetland? Yes = 1 No = 0 0
Source Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for D 2 Add the points in the boxes above 1
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 or 4 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for D 3 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
1
0
Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality
D 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality?
2
Wetland has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet
that is permanently flowing
Wetland has an intermittently flowing stream or ditch, OR highly
constricted permanently flowing outlet.
Wetland is a depression or flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key)
with no surface water leaving it (no outlet).
Wetland is a flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key), whose outlet is
a permanently flowing ditch.
4
D 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site?
DEPRESSIONAL AND FLATS WETLANDS
D 3.3. Has the site been identified in a watershed or local plan as important
for maintaining water quality (answer YES if there is a TMDL for the basin in
which the unit is found )?
D 1.2. The soil 2 in below the surface (or duff layer) is true clay or true organic
(use NRCS definitions ).
D 1.3. Characteristics and distribution of persistent plants (Emergent, Scrub-shrub, and/or
Forested Cowardin classes):
D 2.4. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are
not listed in questions D 2.1 - D 2.3?
D 3.1. Does the wetland discharge directly (i.e., within 1 mi) to a stream, river,
lake, or marine water that is on the 303(d) list?
D 2.2. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that
generate pollutants?
D 3.2. Is the wetland in a basin or sub-basin where an aquatic resource is on the 303(d) list?
D 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society?
1
0
2
0
5
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 5 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
D 4.1. Characteristics of surface water outflows from the wetland:
points = 4
points = 2
points = 1
points = 0
Marks of ponding are 3 ft or more above the surface or bottom of outlet points = 7
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
The wetland is a “headwater” wetland points = 3
Wetland is flat but has small depressions on the surface that trap water points = 1
Marks of ponding less than 0.5 ft (6 in)points = 0
The area of the basin is less than 10 times the area of the unit points = 5
The area of the basin is 10 to 100 times the area of the unit points = 3
The area of the basin is more than 100 times the area of the unit points = 0
Entire wetland is in the Flats class points = 5
Total for D 4 Add the points in the boxes above 8
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
D 5.1. Does the wetland unit receive stormwater discharges? Yes = 1 No = 0 0
D 5.2. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that generate excess runoff?
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for D 5 Add the points in the boxes above 1
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
points = 2
points = 1
Flooding from groundwater is an issue in the sub-basin. points = 1
points = 0
There are no problems with flooding downstream of the wetland. points = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for D 6 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
DEPRESSIONAL AND FLATS WETLANDS
D 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society?
The wetland captures surface water that would otherwise flow down-gradient into areas
where flooding has damaged human or natural resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds):
Flooding occurs in a sub-basin that is immediately down-
gradient of unit.
Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-
gradient.
Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that the site functions to reduce flooding and stream degradation
D 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion?
2
Wetland is a depression or flat depression with no surface water
leaving it (no outlet)
Wetland has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet
that is permanently flowing
Wetland has an intermittently flowing stream or ditch, OR highly
constricted permanently flowing outlet
Wetland is a flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key), whose outlet is
a permanently flowing ditch
3
D 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support hydrologic function of the site?
1
0
D 5.3. Is more than 25% of the contributing basin of the wetland covered with intensive human
land uses (residential at >1 residence/ac, urban, commercial, agriculture, etc.)?
The existing or potential outflow from the wetland is so constrained
by human or natural conditions that the water stored by the wetland
cannot reach areas that flood. Explain why
2
2
3
D 4.2. Depth of storage during wet periods: Estimate the height of ponding above the bottom of
the outlet. For wetlands with no outlet, measure from the surface of permanent water or if dry, the
deepest part.
D 4.3. Contribution of the wetland 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.
D 6.1. The unit is in a landscape that has flooding problems. Choose the description that best
matches conditions around the wetland unit being rated. Do not add points. Choose the highest
score if more than one condition is met.
D 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood
conveyance in a regional flood control plan?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 6 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat
H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat?
Aquatic bed 4 structures or more: points = 4
Emergent 3 structures: points = 2
Scrub-shrub (areas where shrubs have > 30% cover)2 structures: points - 1
Forested (areas where trees have > 30% cover)1 structure: points = 0
If the unit has a Forested class, check if :
H 1.2. Hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present: points = 3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present: points = 2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present: points = 1
Saturated only 1 types present: points = 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
H 1.3. Richness of plant species
If you counted: > 19 species points = 2
5 - 19 species points = 1
< 5 species points = 0
H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes.
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
2
H 1.1. Structure of plant community: Indicators are Cowardin classes and strata within the
Forested class. Check the Cowardin plant classes in the wetland. Up to 10 patches may be
combined for each class to meet the threshold of ¼ ac or more than 10% of the unit if it is smaller
than 2.5 ac. Add the number of structures checked.
None = 0 points Low = 1 point Moderate = 2 points
All three diagrams
in this row are
HIGH = 3 points
1
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime
has to cover more than 10% of the wetland or ¼ ac to count (see text for descriptions of
hydroperiods ).
1
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2.Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do
not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple
loosestrife, Canadian thistle 1
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion among Cowardin plants classes
(described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats)
is high, moderate, low, or none. If you have four or more plant classes or three classes and open
water, the rating is always high.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 7 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
H 1.5. Special habitat features:
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long)
Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland
Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 7
Rating of Site Potential If Score is: 15 - 18 = H 7 - 14 = M 0 - 6 = L Record the rating on the first page
H 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the habitat function of the site?
H 2.1 Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit ).
Calculate:
23 % undisturbed habitat + ( 9 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 27.5%
If total accessible habitat is:
> 1/3 (33.3%) of 1 km Polygon points = 3
20 - 33% of 1 km Polygon points = 2
10 - 19% of 1 km Polygon points = 1
< 10 % of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.2. Undisturbed habitat in 1 km Polygon around the wetland.
Calculate:
37 % undisturbed habitat + ( 23 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 48.5%
Undisturbed habitat > 50% of Polygon points = 3
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and in 1-3 patches points = 2
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and > 3 patches points = 1
Undisturbed habitat < 10% of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.3 Land use intensity in 1 km Polygon: If
> 50% of 1 km Polygon is high intensity land use points = (-2)
≤ 50% of 1km Polygon is high intensity points = 0
Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If Score is: 4 - 6 = H 1 - 3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page
Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2
It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)
It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species
Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) with in 100m points = 1
Site does not meet any of the criteria above points = 0
Rating of Value If Score is: 2 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
2
1
0
H 3.0. Is the habitat provided by the site valuable to society?
H 3.1. Does the site provide habitat for species valued in laws, regulations, or policies? Choose
only the highest score that applies to the wetland being rated .
It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant
or animal on the state or federal lists)
It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the
Department of Natural Resources
2
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see
H 1.1 for list of strata )
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft (2 m) and/or overhanging plants extends
at least 3.3 ft (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the wetland, for at
least 33 ft (10 m)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 weathered where wood is exposed )
At least ¼ ac of thin-stemmed persistent plants or woody branches are present in areas
that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians )
2
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number
of points.
It has been categorized as an important habitat site in a local or
regional comprehensive plan, in a Shoreline Master Plan, or in a
watershed plan
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 8 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00165/wdfw00165.pdf or access the list from here:
http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/
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.
Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are
addressed elsewhere.
WDFW Priority Habitats
Count how many of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft (100 m) of the wetland unit: NOTE : This
question is independent of the land use between the wetland unit and the priority habitat.
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 ).
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 8 trees/ac (20 trees/ha)
> 32 in (81 cm) dbh or > 200 years of age. Mature forests – Stands with average diameters
exceeding 21 in (53 cm) dbh; crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of
snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80-200
years old west of the Cascade crest.
Priority habitats listed by WDFW (see complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in
which they can be found, in: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Priority Habitat and Species
List. Olympia, Washington. 177 pp.
Oregon White Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy
coverage of the oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158 – see
web link above ).
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 form of a
dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161 – see web link above ).
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 – see web link on previous page ).
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 > 20 in (51 cm) in western Washington and are > 6.5 ft (2 m) in height. Priority logs are > 12
in (30 cm) in diameter at the largest end, and > 20 ft (6 m) long.
Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.5 - 6.5 ft (0.15 - 2.0 m),
composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May
be associated with cliffs.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 9 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. List the category when the appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0. Estuarine Wetlands
Does the wetland 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 1.1 No = Not an estuarine wetland
SC 1.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2.Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV)
SC 2.1.
Yes - Go to SC 2.2 No - Go to SC 2.3
SC 2.2. Is the wetland listed on the WDNR database as a Wetland of High Conservation Value?
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 2.3. Is the wetland in a Section/Township/Range that contains a Natural Heritage wetland?
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf
Yes - Contact WNHP/WDNR and to SC 2.4 No = Not WHCV
SC 2.4.
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 3.0. Bogs
SC 3.1.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No - Go to SC 3.2
SC 3.2.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog
SC 3.3.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No - Go to SC 3.4
SC 3.4.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog
Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation
Value and listed it on their website?
Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list
of Wetlands of High Conservation Value?
Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation
in bogs? Use the key below. If you answer YES you will still need to rate the
wetland based on its functions .
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soil horizons, either peats or mucks,
that compose 16 in or more of the first 32 in of the soil profile?
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are
less than 16 in deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic
ash, or that are floating on top of a lake or pond?
Does an area with peats or mucks have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground
level, AND at least a 30% cover of plant species listed in Table 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 in deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the plant species in Table 4 are present,
the wetland is a bog.
Is an area with peats or mucks forested (> 30% cover) with Sitka spruce, subalpine fir,
western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Engelmann
spruce, or western white pine, AND any of the species (or combination of species) listed
in Table 4 provide more than 30% of the cover under the canopy?
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Is the wetland 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?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing,
and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. (If non-native species are
Spartina , see page 25)
At least ¾ 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 two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with
open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 10 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number: Wetland C
SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands
Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section
SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
Yes - Go to SC 5.1 No = Not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1. Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions?
The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2)
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
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
Yes - Go to SC 6.1 No = Not an interdunal wetland for rating
SC 6.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 6.2
SC 6.2. Is the wetland 1 ac or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 ac or larger?
Yes = Category II No - Go to SC 6.3
SC 6.3.
Yes = Category III No = Category IV
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form
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 ponded 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 bottom )
Does the wetland have at least 1 contiguous acre of forest that meets one of these
criteria for the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife’s forests as priority habitats? If you
answer YES you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests (west of Cascade crest): Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/ac
(20 trees/ha) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height
(dbh) of 32 in (81 cm) or more.
Mature forests (west of the Cascade Crest): Stands where the largest trees are 80-
200 years old OR the species that make up the canopy have an average diameter (dbh)
exceeding 21 in (53 cm).
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing),
and has less than 20% cover of aggressive, opportunistic plant species (see list of
species on p. 100).
At least ¾ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft buffer of shrub, forest, or un-
grazed or un-mowed grassland.
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland
based on its habitat functions.
Is the wetland 1 ac or larger and scores an 8 or 9 for the habitat functions on the form
(rates H,H,H or H,H,M for the three aspects of function)?
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 ac, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and
1 ac?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 11 WSDOT Adapted Form - March 2, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
Name of wetland (or ID #): Date of site visit: 6/26/2018
Rated by Trained by Ecology? Yes No Date of training Oct-15
HGM Class used for rating Wetland has multiple HGM classes? Yes No
NOTE: Form is not complete with out the figures requested (figures can be combined ).
Source of base aerial photo/map
OVERALL WETLAND CATEGORY I (based on functions or special characteristics )
1. Category of wetland based on FUNCTIONS
X Category I - Total score = 23 - 27 Score for each
Category II - Total score = 20 - 22 function based
Category III - Total score = 16 - 19 on three
Category IV - Total score = 9 - 15 ratings
(order of ratings
is not
important )
M M 9 = H, H, H
H M 8 = H, H, M
HHTotal 7 = H, H, L
7 = H, M, M
6 = H, M, L
6 = M, M, M
5 = H, L, L
5 = M, M, L
4 = M, L, L
3 = L, L, L
2. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
X
King County Aerial, 2017
None of the above
Riverine & Fresh Water Tidal
Coastal Lagoon
Interdunal
Value
Score Based on
Ratings 88723
H
Improving
Water Quality
MSite Potential
Landscape Potential
Habitat
H
FUNCTION
CHARACTERISTIC Category
Estuarine
Wetland of High Conservation Value
Bog
Mature Forest
Old Growth Forest
RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington
List appropriate rating (H, M, L)
Hydrologic
Madsen Creek - Wetland D
Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 1 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
Maps and Figures required to answer questions correctly for
Western Washington
Depressional Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
Map of the contributing basin
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Riverine Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes C2
Hydroperiods C8
Ponded depressions C8
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )C8
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants C2
Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure )C8
Map of the contributing basin C18
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) C19
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) C20
Lake Fringe Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Slope Wetlands
Map of:Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
(can be added to another figure )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
To answer questions:
L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4
R 3.2, R 3.3
S 3.1, S 3.2
S 3.3
To answer questions:
D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4
D 1.4, H 1.2
D 1.1, D 4.1
D 2.2, D 5.2
D 4.3, D 5.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
D 3.1, D 3.2
D 3.3
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
R 1.1
R 2.4
R 1.2, R 4.2
R 4.1
C15
L 2.2
L 3.1, L 3.2
L 3.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
R 3.1
R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 1.2
S 4.1
S 2.1, S 5.1
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
S 1.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 2 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
For questions 1 -7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides except during floods?
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe - go to 1.1
1.1 Is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NO - 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 unit meet all of the following criteria?
NO - go to 4 YES - The wetland class is Lake Fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ),
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
NO - go to 5 YES - The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years.
NO - go to 6 YES - The wetland class is Riverine
NOTE: The Riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
If hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1 - 7 apply, and go to
Question 8.
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
plants on the surface at any time of the year) at least 20 ac (8 ha) in size;
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.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow
depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 ft deep).
HGM Classification of Wetland in Western Washington
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m).
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands.
If it is Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is an Estuarine wetland and is not scored. This method cannot be
used to score functions for estuarine wetlands.
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding
from that stream or river,
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 3 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
NO - go to 7 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NO - go to 8 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS:
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at
some time during the year? This means that any outlet, if present, is higher than the interior of the wetland.
If you are still unable to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or if you have more than
2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other
class of freshwater wetland
HGM class to
use in rating
Riverine
Depressional
Lake Fringe
Depressional
Depressional
Riverine
Treat as
ESTUARINE
Slope + Lake Fringe
7. Is the entire wetland unit 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.
8. 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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE
HYDROLOGIC 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 the wetland unit being scored.
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 HGM class listed in column 2 is less than 10%
of the unit; classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area.
HGM classes within the wetland unit
being rated
Slope + Riverine
Slope + Depressional
Depressional + Riverine along stream
within boundary of depression
Depressional + Lake Fringe
Riverine + Lake Fringe
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 4 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
Depressions cover > 3/4 area of wetland points = 8
Depressions cover > ½ area of wetland points = 4
Depressions present but cover < ½ area of wetland points = 2
No depressions present points = 0
Trees or shrubs > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 8
Trees or shrubs > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 3
Trees, shrubs, and ungrazed herbaceous < 1/3 area of the wetland points = 0
Total for R 1 Add the points in the boxes above 6
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 2.1. Is the wetland within an incorporated city or within its UGA? Yes = 2 No = 0 2
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Other Sources Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for R 2 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 - 6 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 3 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality
R 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality?
0
R 3.1. Is the wetland along a stream or river that is on the 303(d) list or on a
tributary that drains to one within 1 mi?1
R 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society?
R 1.1. Area of surface depressions within the Riverine wetland that can trap sediments during a
flooding event:
R 1.2. Structure of plants in the wetland (areas with >90% cover at person height, not Cowardin
classes)
R 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site?
R 2.2. Does the contributing basin to the wetland include a UGA or
incorporated area?
0
0
R 3.3. Has the site been identified in a watershed or local plan as important
for maintaining water quality? (answer YES if there is a TMDL for the
drainage in which the unit is found )
2
0
6
R 3.2. Is the wetland along a stream or river that has TMDL limits for
nutrients, toxics, or pathogens?
R 2.3. Does at least 10% of the contributing basin contain tilled fields,
pastures, or forests that have been clearcut within the last 5 years?
R 2.5. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are
not listed in questions R 2.1 - R 2.4?
1
R 2.4. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that
generate pollutants?1
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 5 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
R 4.1. Characteristics of the overbank storage the wetland provides:
If the ratio is more than 20 points = 9
If the ratio is 10 - 20 points = 6
If the ratio is 5 - < 10 points = 4
If the ratio is 1 - < 5 points = 2
If the ratio is < 1 points = 1
Forest or shrub for > 1/3 area OR emergent plants > 2/3 area points = 7
Forest or shrub for > 1/10 area OR emergent plants > 1/3 area points = 4
Plants do not meet above criteria points = 0
Total for R 4 Add the points in the boxes above 9
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 5.1. Is the stream or river adjacent to the wetland downcut? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
R 5.2. Does the up-gradient watershed include a UGA or incorporated area? Yes = 1 No = 0 1
R 5.3 Is the up-gradient stream or river controlled by dams? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
Total for R 5 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 6.1. Distance to the nearest areas downstream that have flooding problems?
Choose the description that best fits the site.
points = 2
Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-gradient points = 1
No flooding problems anywhere downstream points = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 6 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
2
R 4.2. Characteristics of plants that slow down water velocities during floods: Treat large woody
debris as forest or shrub. Choose the points appropriate for the best description (polygons need
to have >90% cover at person height. These are NOT Cowardin classes ).7
R 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the hydrologic functions of the site?
R 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society?
The sub-basin immediately down-gradient of the wetland has
flooding problems that result in damage to human or natural
resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds)
2
Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that site functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion
R 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion?
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Estimate the average width of the wetland perpendicular to the direction of the flow and the width
of the stream or river channel (distance between banks). Calculate the ratio: (average width of
wetland)/(average width of stream between banks).
R 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood
conveyance in a regional flood control plan?2
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 6 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat
H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat?
Aquatic bed 4 structures or more: points = 4
Emergent 3 structures: points = 2
Scrub-shrub (areas where shrubs have > 30% cover)2 structures: points - 1
Forested (areas where trees have > 30% cover)1 structure: points = 0
If the unit has a Forested class, check if :
H 1.2. Hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present: points = 3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present: points = 2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present: points = 1
Saturated only 1 types present: points = 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
H 1.3. Richness of plant species
If you counted: > 19 species points = 2
5 - 19 species points = 1
< 5 species points = 0
H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats
All three diagrams
in this row are
HIGH = 3 points
2
Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do
not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple
loosestrife, Canadian thistle 2
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion among Cowardin plants classes
(described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats)
is high, moderate, low, or none. If you have four or more plant classes or three classes and open
water, the rating is always high.
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime
has to cover more than 10% of the wetland or ¼ ac to count (see text for descriptions of
hydroperiods ).
1
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2.
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes.
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
2
H 1.1. Structure of plant community: Indicators are Cowardin classes and strata within the
Forested class. Check the Cowardin plant classes in the wetland. Up to 10 patches may be
combined for each class to meet the threshold of ¼ ac or more than 10% of the unit if it is smaller
than 2.5 ac. Add the number of structures checked.
Moderate = 2 pointsNone = 0 points Low = 1 point
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 7 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
H 1.5. Special habitat features:
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long)
Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland
Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 9
Rating of Site Potential If Score is: 15 - 18 = H 7 - 14 = M 0 - 6 = L Record the rating on the first page
H 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the habitat function of the site?
H 2.1 Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit ).
Calculate:
16 % undisturbed habitat + ( 6 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 19%
If total accessible habitat is:
> 1/3 (33.3%) of 1 km Polygon points = 3
20 - 33% of 1 km Polygon points = 2
10 - 19% of 1 km Polygon points = 1
< 10 % of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.2. Undisturbed habitat in 1 km Polygon around the wetland.
Calculate:
35 % undisturbed habitat + ( 18 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 44%
Undisturbed habitat > 50% of Polygon points = 3
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and in 1-3 patches points = 2
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and > 3 patches points = 1
Undisturbed habitat < 10% of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.3 Land use intensity in 1 km Polygon: If
> 50% of 1 km Polygon is high intensity land use points = (-2)
≤ 50% of 1km Polygon is high intensity points = 0
Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above 2
Rating of Landscape Potential If Score is: 4 - 6 = H 1 - 3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page
Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2
It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)
It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species
Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) with in 100m points = 1
Site does not meet any of the criteria above points = 0
Rating of Value If Score is: 2 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
1
1
0
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number
of points.
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft (2 m) and/or overhanging plants extends
at least 3.3 ft (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the wetland, for at
least 33 ft (10 m)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 weathered where wood is exposed )
At least ¼ ac of thin-stemmed persistent plants or woody branches are present in areas
that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians )
It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the
Department of Natural Resources
2
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see
H 1.1 for list of strata )
2
It has been categorized as an important habitat site in a local or
regional comprehensive plan, in a Shoreline Master Plan, or in a
watershed plan
H 3.0. Is the habitat provided by the site valuable to society?
H 3.1. Does the site provide habitat for species valued in laws, regulations, or policies? Choose
only the highest score that applies to the wetland being rated .
It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant
or animal on the state or federal lists)
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 8 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.
WDFW Priority Habitats
Count how many of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft (100 m) of the wetland unit: NOTE : This
question is independent of the land use between the wetland unit and the priority habitat.
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 ).
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 8 trees/ac (20 trees/ha)
> 32 in (81 cm) dbh or > 200 years of age. Mature forests – Stands with average diameters
exceeding 21 in (53 cm) dbh; crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of
snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80-200
years old west of the Cascade crest.
Priority habitats listed by WDFW (see complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in
which they can be found, in: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Priority Habitat and Species
List. Olympia, Washington. 177 pp.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00165/wdfw00165.pdf or access the list from here:
http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/
Oregon White Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy
coverage of the oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158 – see
web link above ).
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 form of a
dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161 – see web link above ).
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 – see web link on previous page ).
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 > 20 in (51 cm) in western Washington and are > 6.5 ft (2 m) in height. Priority logs are > 12
in (30 cm) in diameter at the largest end, and > 20 ft (6 m) long.
Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.5 - 6.5 ft (0.15 - 2.0 m),
composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May
be associated with cliffs.
Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are
addressed elsewhere.
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.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 9 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. List the category when the appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0. Estuarine Wetlands
Does the wetland 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 1.1 No = Not an estuarine wetland
SC 1.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2.Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV)
SC 2.1.
Yes - Go to SC 2.2 No - Go to SC 2.3
SC 2.2. Is the wetland listed on the WDNR database as a Wetland of High Conservation Value?
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 2.3. Is the wetland in a Section/Township/Range that contains a Natural Heritage wetland?
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf
Yes - Contact WNHP/WDNR and to SC 2.4 No = Not WHCV
SC 2.4.
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 3.0. Bogs
SC 3.1.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No - Go to SC 3.2
SC 3.2.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog
SC 3.3.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No - Go to SC 3.4
SC 3.4.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog
Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation
Value and listed it on their website?
Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list
of Wetlands of High Conservation Value?
Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation
in bogs? Use the key below. If you answer YES you will still need to rate the
wetland based on its functions .
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soil horizons, either peats or mucks,
that compose 16 in or more of the first 32 in of the soil profile?
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are
less than 16 in deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic
ash, or that are floating on top of a lake or pond?
Does an area with peats or mucks have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground
level, AND at least a 30% cover of plant species listed in Table 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 in deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the plant species in Table 4 are present,
the wetland is a bog.
Is an area with peats or mucks forested (> 30% cover) with Sitka spruce, subalpine fir,
western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Engelmann
spruce, or western white pine, AND any of the species (or combination of species) listed
in Table 4 provide more than 30% of the cover under the canopy?
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Is the wetland 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?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing,
and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. (If non-native species are
Spartina , see page 25)
At least ¾ 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 two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with
open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 10 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland D
SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands
Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section
SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
Yes - Go to SC 5.1 No = Not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1. Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions?
The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2)
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
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
Yes - Go to SC 6.1 No = Not an interdunal wetland for rating
SC 6.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 6.2
SC 6.2. Is the wetland 1 ac or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 ac or larger?
Yes = Category II No - Go to SC 6.3
SC 6.3.
Yes = Category III No = Category IV
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland
based on its habitat functions.
Is the wetland 1 ac or larger and scores an 8 or 9 for the habitat functions on the form
(rates H,H,H or H,H,M for the three aspects of function)?
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 ac, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and
1 ac?
At least ¾ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft buffer of shrub, forest, or un-
grazed or un-mowed grassland.
Does the wetland have at least 1 contiguous acre of forest that meets one of these
criteria for the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife’s forests as priority habitats? If you
answer YES you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests (west of Cascade crest): Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/ac
(20 trees/ha) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height
(dbh) of 32 in (81 cm) or more.
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 ponded 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 bottom )
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing),
and has less than 20% cover of aggressive, opportunistic plant species (see list of
species on p. 100).
Mature forests (west of the Cascade Crest): Stands where the largest trees are 80-
200 years old OR the species that make up the canopy have an average diameter (dbh)
exceeding 21 in (53 cm).
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 11 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
Name of wetland (or ID #): Date of site visit: 6/26/2018
Rated by Trained by Ecology? Yes No Date of training Oct-15
HGM Class used for rating Wetland has multiple HGM classes? Yes No
NOTE: Form is not complete with out the figures requested (figures can be combined ).
Source of base aerial photo/map
OVERALL WETLAND CATEGORY II (based on functions or special characteristics )
1. Category of wetland based on FUNCTIONS
Category I - Total score = 23 - 27 Score for each
X Category II - Total score = 20 - 22 function based
Category III - Total score = 16 - 19 on three
Category IV - Total score = 9 - 15 ratings
(order of ratings
is not
important )
M L 9 = H, H, H
H M 8 = H, H, M
HHTotal 7 = H, H, L
7 = H, M, M
6 = H, M, L
6 = M, M, M
5 = H, L, L
5 = M, M, L
4 = M, L, L
3 = L, L, L
2. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
X
King County Aerial 2017
None of the above
Riverine & Fresh Water Tidal
Coastal Lagoon
Interdunal
Value
Score Based on
Ratings 88622
H
Improving
Water Quality
MSite Potential
Landscape Potential
Habitat
H
FUNCTION
CHARACTERISTIC Category
Estuarine
Wetland of High Conservation Value
Bog
Mature Forest
Old Growth Forest
RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington
List appropriate rating (H, M, L)
Hydrologic
Madsen Creek - Wetland E
Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 1 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
Maps and Figures required to answer questions correctly for
Western Washington
Depressional Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
Map of the contributing basin
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Riverine Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes C2
Hydroperiods C8
Ponded depressions C8
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )C8
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants C2
Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure )C8
Map of the contributing basin C18
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) C19
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) C20
Lake Fringe Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Slope Wetlands
Map of:Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
(can be added to another figure )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
To answer questions:
L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4
R 3.2, R 3.3
S 3.1, S 3.2
S 3.3
To answer questions:
D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4
D 1.4, H 1.2
D 1.1, D 4.1
D 2.2, D 5.2
D 4.3, D 5.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
D 3.1, D 3.2
D 3.3
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
R 1.1
R 2.4
R 1.2, R 4.2
R 4.1
C15
L 2.2
L 3.1, L 3.2
L 3.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
R 3.1
R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 1.2
S 4.1
S 2.1, S 5.1
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
S 1.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 2 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
For questions 1 -7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides except during floods?
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe - go to 1.1
1.1 Is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NO - 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 unit meet all of the following criteria?
NO - go to 4 YES - The wetland class is Lake Fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ),
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
NO - go to 5 YES - The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years.
NO - go to 6 YES - The wetland class is Riverine
NOTE: The Riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
If hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1 - 7 apply, and go to
Question 8.
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
plants on the surface at any time of the year) at least 20 ac (8 ha) in size;
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.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow
depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 ft deep).
HGM Classification of Wetland in Western Washington
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m).
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands.
If it is Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is an Estuarine wetland and is not scored. This method cannot be
used to score functions for estuarine wetlands.
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding
from that stream or river,
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 3 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
NO - go to 7 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NO - go to 8 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS:
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at
some time during the year? This means that any outlet, if present, is higher than the interior of the wetland.
If you are still unable to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or if you have more than
2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other
class of freshwater wetland
HGM class to
use in rating
Riverine
Depressional
Lake Fringe
Depressional
Depressional
Riverine
Treat as
ESTUARINE
Slope + Lake Fringe
7. Is the entire wetland unit 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.
8. 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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE
HYDROLOGIC 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 the wetland unit being scored.
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 HGM class listed in column 2 is less than 10%
of the unit; classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area.
HGM classes within the wetland unit
being rated
Slope + Riverine
Slope + Depressional
Depressional + Riverine along stream
within boundary of depression
Depressional + Lake Fringe
Riverine + Lake Fringe
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 4 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
Depressions cover > 3/4 area of wetland points = 8
Depressions cover > ½ area of wetland points = 4
Depressions present but cover < ½ area of wetland points = 2
No depressions present points = 0
Trees or shrubs > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 8
Trees or shrubs > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 3
Trees, shrubs, and ungrazed herbaceous < 1/3 area of the wetland points = 0
Total for R 1 Add the points in the boxes above 10
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 2.1. Is the wetland within an incorporated city or within its UGA? Yes = 2 No = 0 2
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Other Sources Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for R 2 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 - 6 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 3 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality
R 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality?
0
R 3.1. Is the wetland along a stream or river that is on the 303(d) list or on a
tributary that drains to one within 1 mi?1
R 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society?
R 1.1. Area of surface depressions within the Riverine wetland that can trap sediments during a
flooding event:
R 1.2. Structure of plants in the wetland (areas with >90% cover at person height, not Cowardin
classes)
R 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site?
R 2.2. Does the contributing basin to the wetland include a UGA or
incorporated area?
0
0
R 3.3. Has the site been identified in a watershed or local plan as important
for maintaining water quality? (answer YES if there is a TMDL for the
drainage in which the unit is found )
2
2
8
R 3.2. Is the wetland along a stream or river that has TMDL limits for
nutrients, toxics, or pathogens?
R 2.3. Does at least 10% of the contributing basin contain tilled fields,
pastures, or forests that have been clearcut within the last 5 years?
R 2.5. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are
not listed in questions R 2.1 - R 2.4?
1
R 2.4. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that
generate pollutants?1
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 5 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
R 4.1. Characteristics of the overbank storage the wetland provides:
If the ratio is more than 20 points = 9
If the ratio is 10 - 20 points = 6
If the ratio is 5 - < 10 points = 4
If the ratio is 1 - < 5 points = 2
If the ratio is < 1 points = 1
Forest or shrub for > 1/3 area OR emergent plants > 2/3 area points = 7
Forest or shrub for > 1/10 area OR emergent plants > 1/3 area points = 4
Plants do not meet above criteria points = 0
Total for R 4 Add the points in the boxes above 9
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 5.1. Is the stream or river adjacent to the wetland downcut? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
R 5.2. Does the up-gradient watershed include a UGA or incorporated area? Yes = 1 No = 0 1
R 5.3 Is the up-gradient stream or river controlled by dams? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
Total for R 5 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 6.1. Distance to the nearest areas downstream that have flooding problems?
Choose the description that best fits the site.
points = 2
Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-gradient points = 1
No flooding problems anywhere downstream points = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 6 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
2
R 4.2. Characteristics of plants that slow down water velocities during floods: Treat large woody
debris as forest or shrub. Choose the points appropriate for the best description (polygons need
to have >90% cover at person height. These are NOT Cowardin classes ).7
R 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the hydrologic functions of the site?
R 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society?
The sub-basin immediately down-gradient of the wetland has
flooding problems that result in damage to human or natural
resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds)
2
Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that site functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion
R 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion?
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Estimate the average width of the wetland perpendicular to the direction of the flow and the width
of the stream or river channel (distance between banks). Calculate the ratio: (average width of
wetland)/(average width of stream between banks).
R 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood
conveyance in a regional flood control plan?2
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 6 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat
H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat?
Aquatic bed 4 structures or more: points = 4
Emergent 3 structures: points = 2
Scrub-shrub (areas where shrubs have > 30% cover)2 structures: points - 1
Forested (areas where trees have > 30% cover)1 structure: points = 0
If the unit has a Forested class, check if :
H 1.2. Hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present: points = 3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present: points = 2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present: points = 1
Saturated only 1 types present: points = 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
H 1.3. Richness of plant species
If you counted: > 19 species points = 2
5 - 19 species points = 1
< 5 species points = 0
H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats
All three diagrams
in this row are
HIGH = 3 points
1
Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do
not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple
loosestrife, Canadian thistle 1
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion among Cowardin plants classes
(described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats)
is high, moderate, low, or none. If you have four or more plant classes or three classes and open
water, the rating is always high.
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime
has to cover more than 10% of the wetland or ¼ ac to count (see text for descriptions of
hydroperiods ).
1
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2.
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes.
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
1
H 1.1. Structure of plant community: Indicators are Cowardin classes and strata within the
Forested class. Check the Cowardin plant classes in the wetland. Up to 10 patches may be
combined for each class to meet the threshold of ¼ ac or more than 10% of the unit if it is smaller
than 2.5 ac. Add the number of structures checked.
Moderate = 2 pointsNone = 0 points Low = 1 point
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 7 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
H 1.5. Special habitat features:
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long)
Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland
Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 6
Rating of Site Potential If Score is: 15 - 18 = H 7 - 14 = M 0 - 6 = L Record the rating on the first page
H 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the habitat function of the site?
H 2.1 Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit ).
Calculate:
16 % undisturbed habitat + ( 6 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 19%
If total accessible habitat is:
> 1/3 (33.3%) of 1 km Polygon points = 3
20 - 33% of 1 km Polygon points = 2
10 - 19% of 1 km Polygon points = 1
< 10 % of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.2. Undisturbed habitat in 1 km Polygon around the wetland.
Calculate:
35 % undisturbed habitat + ( 18 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 44%
Undisturbed habitat > 50% of Polygon points = 3
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and in 1-3 patches points = 2
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and > 3 patches points = 1
Undisturbed habitat < 10% of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.3 Land use intensity in 1 km Polygon: If
> 50% of 1 km Polygon is high intensity land use points = (-2)
≤ 50% of 1km Polygon is high intensity points = 0
Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If Score is: 4 - 6 = H 1 - 3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page
Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2
It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)
It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species
Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) with in 100m points = 1
Site does not meet any of the criteria above points = 0
Rating of Value If Score is: 2 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
2
1
0
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number
of points.
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft (2 m) and/or overhanging plants extends
at least 3.3 ft (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the wetland, for at
least 33 ft (10 m)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 weathered where wood is exposed )
At least ¼ ac of thin-stemmed persistent plants or woody branches are present in areas
that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians )
It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the
Department of Natural Resources
2
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see
H 1.1 for list of strata )
2
It has been categorized as an important habitat site in a local or
regional comprehensive plan, in a Shoreline Master Plan, or in a
watershed plan
H 3.0. Is the habitat provided by the site valuable to society?
H 3.1. Does the site provide habitat for species valued in laws, regulations, or policies? Choose
only the highest score that applies to the wetland being rated .
It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant
or animal on the state or federal lists)
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 8 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.
WDFW Priority Habitats
Count how many of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft (100 m) of the wetland unit: NOTE : This
question is independent of the land use between the wetland unit and the priority habitat.
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 ).
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 8 trees/ac (20 trees/ha)
> 32 in (81 cm) dbh or > 200 years of age. Mature forests – Stands with average diameters
exceeding 21 in (53 cm) dbh; crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of
snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80-200
years old west of the Cascade crest.
Priority habitats listed by WDFW (see complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in
which they can be found, in: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Priority Habitat and Species
List. Olympia, Washington. 177 pp.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00165/wdfw00165.pdf or access the list from here:
http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/
Oregon White Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy
coverage of the oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158 – see
web link above ).
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 form of a
dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161 – see web link above ).
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 – see web link on previous page ).
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 > 20 in (51 cm) in western Washington and are > 6.5 ft (2 m) in height. Priority logs are > 12
in (30 cm) in diameter at the largest end, and > 20 ft (6 m) long.
Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.5 - 6.5 ft (0.15 - 2.0 m),
composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May
be associated with cliffs.
Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are
addressed elsewhere.
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.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 9 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. List the category when the appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0. Estuarine Wetlands
Does the wetland 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 1.1 No = Not an estuarine wetland
SC 1.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2.Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV)
SC 2.1.
Yes - Go to SC 2.2 No - Go to SC 2.3
SC 2.2. Is the wetland listed on the WDNR database as a Wetland of High Conservation Value?
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 2.3. Is the wetland in a Section/Township/Range that contains a Natural Heritage wetland?
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf
Yes - Contact WNHP/WDNR and to SC 2.4 No = Not WHCV
SC 2.4.
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 3.0. Bogs
SC 3.1.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No - Go to SC 3.2
SC 3.2.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog
SC 3.3.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No - Go to SC 3.4
SC 3.4.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog
Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation
Value and listed it on their website?
Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list
of Wetlands of High Conservation Value?
Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation
in bogs? Use the key below. If you answer YES you will still need to rate the
wetland based on its functions .
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soil horizons, either peats or mucks,
that compose 16 in or more of the first 32 in of the soil profile?
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are
less than 16 in deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic
ash, or that are floating on top of a lake or pond?
Does an area with peats or mucks have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground
level, AND at least a 30% cover of plant species listed in Table 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 in deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the plant species in Table 4 are present,
the wetland is a bog.
Is an area with peats or mucks forested (> 30% cover) with Sitka spruce, subalpine fir,
western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Engelmann
spruce, or western white pine, AND any of the species (or combination of species) listed
in Table 4 provide more than 30% of the cover under the canopy?
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Is the wetland 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?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing,
and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. (If non-native species are
Spartina , see page 25)
At least ¾ 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 two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with
open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 10 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland E
SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands
Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section
SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
Yes - Go to SC 5.1 No = Not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1. Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions?
The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2)
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
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
Yes - Go to SC 6.1 No = Not an interdunal wetland for rating
SC 6.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 6.2
SC 6.2. Is the wetland 1 ac or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 ac or larger?
Yes = Category II No - Go to SC 6.3
SC 6.3.
Yes = Category III No = Category IV
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland
based on its habitat functions.
Is the wetland 1 ac or larger and scores an 8 or 9 for the habitat functions on the form
(rates H,H,H or H,H,M for the three aspects of function)?
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 ac, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and
1 ac?
At least ¾ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft buffer of shrub, forest, or un-
grazed or un-mowed grassland.
Does the wetland have at least 1 contiguous acre of forest that meets one of these
criteria for the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife’s forests as priority habitats? If you
answer YES you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests (west of Cascade crest): Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/ac
(20 trees/ha) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height
(dbh) of 32 in (81 cm) or more.
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 ponded 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 bottom )
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing),
and has less than 20% cover of aggressive, opportunistic plant species (see list of
species on p. 100).
Mature forests (west of the Cascade Crest): Stands where the largest trees are 80-
200 years old OR the species that make up the canopy have an average diameter (dbh)
exceeding 21 in (53 cm).
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 11 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
Name of wetland (or ID #): Date of site visit: 6/26/2018
Rated by Trained by Ecology? Yes No Date of training Oct-15
HGM Class used for rating Wetland has multiple HGM classes? Yes No
NOTE: Form is not complete with out the figures requested (figures can be combined ).
Source of base aerial photo/map
OVERALL WETLAND CATEGORY II (based on functions or special characteristics )
1. Category of wetland based on FUNCTIONS
Category I - Total score = 23 - 27 Score for each
X Category II - Total score = 20 - 22 function based
Category III - Total score = 16 - 19 on three
Category IV - Total score = 9 - 15 ratings
(order of ratings
is not
important )
L L 9 = H, H, H
M M 8 = H, H, M
HHTotal 7 = H, H, L
7 = H, M, M
6 = H, M, L
6 = M, M, M
5 = H, L, L
5 = M, M, L
4 = M, L, L
3 = L, L, L
2. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
X
RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington
List appropriate rating (H, M, L)
Hydrologic
Madsen Creek - Wetland F
Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear
Riverine & Fresh Water Tidal
Coastal Lagoon
Interdunal
Value
Score Based on
Ratings 86620
H
Improving
Water Quality
MSite Potential
Landscape Potential
Habitat
H
FUNCTION
CHARACTERISTIC Category
Estuarine
Wetland of High Conservation Value
Bog
Mature Forest
Old Growth Forest
King County Aerial 2017
None of the above
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 1 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
Maps and Figures required to answer questions correctly for
Western Washington
Depressional Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
Map of the contributing basin
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Riverine Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes C3
Hydroperiods C9
Ponded depressions C9
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )C9
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants C3
Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure )C9
Map of the contributing basin C18
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) C19
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) C20
Lake Fringe Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Slope Wetlands
Map of:Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
(can be added to another figure )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
H 1.2
S 1.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
C16
L 2.2
L 3.1, L 3.2
L 3.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
R 3.1
R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 1.2
S 4.1
S 2.1, S 5.1
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
To answer questions:
D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4
D 1.4, H 1.2
D 1.1, D 4.1
D 2.2, D 5.2
D 4.3, D 5.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
D 3.1, D 3.2
D 3.3
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
R 1.1
R 2.4
R 1.2, R 4.2
R 4.1
To answer questions:
L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4
R 3.2, R 3.3
S 3.1, S 3.2
S 3.3
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 2 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
For questions 1 -7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides except during floods?
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe - go to 1.1
1.1 Is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NO - 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 unit meet all of the following criteria?
NO - go to 4 YES - The wetland class is Lake Fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ),
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
NO - go to 5 YES - The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years.
NO - go to 6 YES - The wetland class is Riverine
NOTE: The Riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding
from that stream or river,
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m).
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands.
If it is Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is an Estuarine wetland and is not scored. This method cannot be
used to score functions for estuarine wetlands.
HGM Classification of Wetland in Western Washington
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
plants on the surface at any time of the year) at least 20 ac (8 ha) in size;
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.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow
depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 ft deep).
If hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1 - 7 apply, and go to
Question 8.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 3 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
NO - go to 7 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NO - go to 8 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS:
being rated
Slope + Riverine
Slope + Depressional
Depressional + Riverine along stream
within boundary of depression
Depressional + Lake Fringe
Riverine + Lake Fringe
7. Is the entire wetland unit 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.
8. 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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE
HYDROLOGIC 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 the wetland unit being scored.
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 HGM class listed in column 2 is less than 10%
of the unit; classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area.
HGM classes within the wetland unit
If you are still unable to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or if you have more than
2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other
class of freshwater wetland
HGM class to
use in rating
Riverine
Depressional
Lake Fringe
Depressional
Depressional
Riverine
Treat as
ESTUARINE
Slope + Lake Fringe
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at
some time during the year? This means that any outlet, if present, is higher than the interior of the wetland.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 4 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
Depressions cover > 3/4 area of wetland points = 8
Depressions cover > ½ area of wetland points = 4
Depressions present but cover < ½ area of wetland points = 2
No depressions present points = 0
Trees or shrubs > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 8
Trees or shrubs > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 3
Trees, shrubs, and ungrazed herbaceous < 1/3 area of the wetland points = 0
Total for R 1 Add the points in the boxes above 6
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 2.1. Is the wetland within an incorporated city or within its UGA? Yes = 2 No = 0 2
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Other Sources Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for R 2 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 - 6 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 3 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
1
R 2.4. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that
generate pollutants?1
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
R 3.3. Has the site been identified in a watershed or local plan as important
for maintaining water quality? (answer YES if there is a TMDL for the
drainage in which the unit is found )
2
0
6
R 3.2. Is the wetland along a stream or river that has TMDL limits for
nutrients, toxics, or pathogens?
R 2.3. Does at least 10% of the contributing basin contain tilled fields,
pastures, or forests that have been clearcut within the last 5 years?
R 2.5. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are
not listed in questions R 2.1 - R 2.4?
Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality
R 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality?
0
R 3.1. Is the wetland along a stream or river that is on the 303(d) list or on a
tributary that drains to one within 1 mi?1
R 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society?
R 1.1. Area of surface depressions within the Riverine wetland that can trap sediments during a
flooding event:
R 1.2. Structure of plants in the wetland (areas with >90% cover at person height, not Cowardin
classes)
R 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site?
R 2.2. Does the contributing basin to the wetland include a UGA or
incorporated area?
0
0
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 5 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
R 4.1. Characteristics of the overbank storage the wetland provides:
If the ratio is more than 20 points = 9
If the ratio is 10 - 20 points = 6
If the ratio is 5 - < 10 points = 4
If the ratio is 1 - < 5 points = 2
If the ratio is < 1 points = 1
Forest or shrub for > 1/3 area OR emergent plants > 2/3 area points = 7
Forest or shrub for > 1/10 area OR emergent plants > 1/3 area points = 4
Plants do not meet above criteria points = 0
Total for R 4 Add the points in the boxes above 5
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 5.1. Is the stream or river adjacent to the wetland downcut? Yes = 0 No = 1 0
R 5.2. Does the up-gradient watershed include a UGA or incorporated area? Yes = 1 No = 0 1
R 5.3 Is the up-gradient stream or river controlled by dams? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
Total for R 5 Add the points in the boxes above 2
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 6.1. Distance to the nearest areas downstream that have flooding problems?
Choose the description that best fits the site.
points = 2
Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-gradient points = 1
No flooding problems anywhere downstream points = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 6 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood
conveyance in a regional flood control plan?2
R 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society?
The sub-basin immediately down-gradient of the wetland has
flooding problems that result in damage to human or natural
resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds)
2
Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that site functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion
R 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion?
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Estimate the average width of the wetland perpendicular to the direction of the flow and the width
of the stream or river channel (distance between banks). Calculate the ratio: (average width of
wetland)/(average width of stream between banks).
1
R 4.2. Characteristics of plants that slow down water velocities during floods: Treat large woody
debris as forest or shrub. Choose the points appropriate for the best description (polygons need
to have >90% cover at person height. These are NOT Cowardin classes ).4
R 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the hydrologic functions of the site?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 6 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat
H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat?
Aquatic bed 4 structures or more: points = 4
Emergent 3 structures: points = 2
Scrub-shrub (areas where shrubs have > 30% cover)2 structures: points - 1
Forested (areas where trees have > 30% cover)1 structure: points = 0
If the unit has a Forested class, check if :
H 1.2. Hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present: points = 3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present: points = 2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present: points = 1
Saturated only 1 types present: points = 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
H 1.3. Richness of plant species
If you counted: > 19 species points = 2
5 - 19 species points = 1
< 5 species points = 0
H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats
None = 0 points Low = 1 point
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime
has to cover more than 10% of the wetland or ¼ ac to count (see text for descriptions of
hydroperiods ).
1
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2.
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes.
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
1
H 1.1. Structure of plant community: Indicators are Cowardin classes and strata within the
Forested class. Check the Cowardin plant classes in the wetland. Up to 10 patches may be
combined for each class to meet the threshold of ¼ ac or more than 10% of the unit if it is smaller
than 2.5 ac. Add the number of structures checked.
Moderate = 2 points
All three diagrams
in this row are
HIGH = 3 points
1
Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do
not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple
loosestrife, Canadian thistle 1
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion among Cowardin plants classes
(described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats)
is high, moderate, low, or none. If you have four or more plant classes or three classes and open
water, the rating is always high.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 7 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
H 1.5. Special habitat features:
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long)
Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland
Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Site Potential If Score is: 15 - 18 = H 7 - 14 = M 0 - 6 = L Record the rating on the first page
H 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the habitat function of the site?
H 2.1 Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit ).
Calculate:
16 % undisturbed habitat + ( 8 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 20%
If total accessible habitat is:
> 1/3 (33.3%) of 1 km Polygon points = 3
20 - 33% of 1 km Polygon points = 2
10 - 19% of 1 km Polygon points = 1
< 10 % of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.2. Undisturbed habitat in 1 km Polygon around the wetland.
Calculate:
37 % undisturbed habitat + ( 21 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 47.5%
Undisturbed habitat > 50% of Polygon points = 3
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and in 1-3 patches points = 2
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and > 3 patches points = 1
Undisturbed habitat < 10% of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.3 Land use intensity in 1 km Polygon: If
> 50% of 1 km Polygon is high intensity land use points = (-2)
≤ 50% of 1km Polygon is high intensity points = 0
Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If Score is: 4 - 6 = H 1 - 3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page
Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2
It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)
It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species
Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) with in 100m points = 1
Site does not meet any of the criteria above points = 0
Rating of Value If Score is: 2 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the
Department of Natural Resources
2
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see
H 1.1 for list of strata )
0
It has been categorized as an important habitat site in a local or
regional comprehensive plan, in a Shoreline Master Plan, or in a
watershed plan
H 3.0. Is the habitat provided by the site valuable to society?
H 3.1. Does the site provide habitat for species valued in laws, regulations, or policies? Choose
only the highest score that applies to the wetland being rated .
It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant
or animal on the state or federal lists)
2
1
0
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number
of points.
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft (2 m) and/or overhanging plants extends
at least 3.3 ft (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the wetland, for at
least 33 ft (10 m)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 weathered where wood is exposed )
At least ¼ ac of thin-stemmed persistent plants or woody branches are present in areas
that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians )
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 8 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.
Oregon White Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy
coverage of the oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158 – see
web link above ).
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 form of a
dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161 – see web link above ).
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 – see web link on previous page ).
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 > 20 in (51 cm) in western Washington and are > 6.5 ft (2 m) in height. Priority logs are > 12
in (30 cm) in diameter at the largest end, and > 20 ft (6 m) long.
Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.5 - 6.5 ft (0.15 - 2.0 m),
composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May
be associated with cliffs.
Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are
addressed elsewhere.
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.
WDFW Priority Habitats
Count how many of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft (100 m) of the wetland unit: NOTE : This
question is independent of the land use between the wetland unit and the priority habitat.
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 ).
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 8 trees/ac (20 trees/ha)
> 32 in (81 cm) dbh or > 200 years of age. Mature forests – Stands with average diameters
exceeding 21 in (53 cm) dbh; crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of
snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80-200
years old west of the Cascade crest.
Priority habitats listed by WDFW (see complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in
which they can be found, in: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Priority Habitat and Species
List. Olympia, Washington. 177 pp.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00165/wdfw00165.pdf or access the list from here:
http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 9 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. List the category when the appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0. Estuarine Wetlands
Does the wetland 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 1.1 No = Not an estuarine wetland
SC 1.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2.Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV)
SC 2.1.
Yes - Go to SC 2.2 No - Go to SC 2.3
SC 2.2. Is the wetland listed on the WDNR database as a Wetland of High Conservation Value?
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 2.3. Is the wetland in a Section/Township/Range that contains a Natural Heritage wetland?
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf
Yes - Contact WNHP/WDNR and to SC 2.4 No = Not WHCV
SC 2.4.
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 3.0. Bogs
SC 3.1.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No - Go to SC 3.2
SC 3.2.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog
SC 3.3.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No - Go to SC 3.4
SC 3.4.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Is the wetland 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?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing,
and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. (If non-native species are
Spartina , see page 25)
At least ¾ 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 two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with
open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation
Value and listed it on their website?
Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list
of Wetlands of High Conservation Value?
Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation
in bogs? Use the key below. If you answer YES you will still need to rate the
wetland based on its functions .
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soil horizons, either peats or mucks,
that compose 16 in or more of the first 32 in of the soil profile?
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are
less than 16 in deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic
ash, or that are floating on top of a lake or pond?
Does an area with peats or mucks have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground
level, AND at least a 30% cover of plant species listed in Table 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 in deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the plant species in Table 4 are present,
the wetland is a bog.
Is an area with peats or mucks forested (> 30% cover) with Sitka spruce, subalpine fir,
western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Engelmann
spruce, or western white pine, AND any of the species (or combination of species) listed
in Table 4 provide more than 30% of the cover under the canopy?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 10 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland F
SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands
Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section
SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
Yes - Go to SC 5.1 No = Not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1. Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions?
The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2)
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
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
Yes - Go to SC 6.1 No = Not an interdunal wetland for rating
SC 6.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 6.2
SC 6.2. Is the wetland 1 ac or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 ac or larger?
Yes = Category II No - Go to SC 6.3
SC 6.3.
Yes = Category III No = Category IV
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form
Does the wetland have at least 1 contiguous acre of forest that meets one of these
criteria for the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife’s forests as priority habitats? If you
answer YES you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests (west of Cascade crest): Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/ac
(20 trees/ha) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height
(dbh) of 32 in (81 cm) or more.
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 ponded 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 bottom )
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing),
and has less than 20% cover of aggressive, opportunistic plant species (see list of
species on p. 100).
Mature forests (west of the Cascade Crest): Stands where the largest trees are 80-
200 years old OR the species that make up the canopy have an average diameter (dbh)
exceeding 21 in (53 cm).
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland
based on its habitat functions.
Is the wetland 1 ac or larger and scores an 8 or 9 for the habitat functions on the form
(rates H,H,H or H,H,M for the three aspects of function)?
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 ac, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and
1 ac?
At least ¾ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft buffer of shrub, forest, or un-
grazed or un-mowed grassland.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 11 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
Name of wetland (or ID #): Date of site visit: 7/132018
Rated by Trained by Ecology? Yes No Date of training Oct-15
HGM Class used for rating Wetland has multiple HGM classes? Yes No
NOTE: Form is not complete with out the figures requested (figures can be combined ).
Source of base aerial photo/map
OVERALL WETLAND CATEGORY II (based on functions or special characteristics )
1. Category of wetland based on FUNCTIONS
Category I - Total score = 23 - 27 Score for each
X Category II - Total score = 20 - 22 function based
Category III - Total score = 16 - 19 on three
Category IV - Total score = 9 - 15 ratings
(order of ratings
is not
important )
L L 9 = H, H, H
H M 8 = H, H, M
HHTotal 7 = H, H, L
7 = H, M, M
6 = H, M, L
6 = M, M, M
5 = H, L, L
5 = M, M, L
4 = M, L, L
3 = L, L, L
2. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
X
RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington
List appropriate rating (H, M, L)
Hydrologic
Madsen Creek - Wetland G
Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear
Riverine & Fresh Water Tidal
Coastal Lagoon
Interdunal
Value
Score Based on
Ratings 77620
H
Improving
Water Quality
LSite Potential
Landscape Potential
Habitat
H
FUNCTION
CHARACTERISTIC Category
Estuarine
Wetland of High Conservation Value
Bog
Mature Forest
Old Growth Forest
King County Aerial 2017
None of the above
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 1 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
Maps and Figures required to answer questions correctly for
Western Washington
Depressional Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
Map of the contributing basin
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Riverine Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes C4
Hydroperiods C10
Ponded depressions C10
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure ) C10
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants C4
Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure ) C10
Map of the contributing basin C18
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) C19
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) C20
Lake Fringe Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Slope Wetlands
Map of:Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
(can be added to another figure )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
H 1.2
S 1.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
C16
L 2.2
L 3.1, L 3.2
L 3.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
R 3.1
R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 1.2
S 4.1
S 2.1, S 5.1
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
To answer questions:
D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4
D 1.4, H 1.2
D 1.1, D 4.1
D 2.2, D 5.2
D 4.3, D 5.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
D 3.1, D 3.2
D 3.3
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
R 1.1
R 2.4
R 1.2, R 4.2
R 4.1
To answer questions:
L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4
R 3.2, R 3.3
S 3.1, S 3.2
S 3.3
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 2 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
For questions 1 -7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides except during floods?
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe - go to 1.1
1.1 Is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NO - 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 unit meet all of the following criteria?
NO - go to 4 YES - The wetland class is Lake Fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ),
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
NO - go to 5 YES - The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years.
NO - go to 6 YES - The wetland class is Riverine
NOTE: The Riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding
from that stream or river,
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m).
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands.
If it is Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is an Estuarine wetland and is not scored. This method cannot be
used to score functions for estuarine wetlands.
HGM Classification of Wetland in Western Washington
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
plants on the surface at any time of the year) at least 20 ac (8 ha) in size;
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.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow
depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 ft deep).
If hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1 - 7 apply, and go to
Question 8.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 3 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
NO - go to 7 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NO - go to 8 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS:
being rated
Slope + Riverine
Slope + Depressional
Depressional + Riverine along stream
within boundary of depression
Depressional + Lake Fringe
Riverine + Lake Fringe
7. Is the entire wetland unit 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.
8. 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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE
HYDROLOGIC 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 the wetland unit being scored.
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 HGM class listed in column 2 is less than 10%
of the unit; classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area.
HGM classes within the wetland unit
If you are still unable to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or if you have more than
2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other
class of freshwater wetland
HGM class to
use in rating
Riverine
Depressional
Lake Fringe
Depressional
Depressional
Riverine
Treat as
ESTUARINE
Slope + Lake Fringe
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at
some time during the year? This means that any outlet, if present, is higher than the interior of the wetland.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 4 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
Depressions cover > 3/4 area of wetland points = 8
Depressions cover > ½ area of wetland points = 4
Depressions present but cover < ½ area of wetland points = 2
No depressions present points = 0
Trees or shrubs > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 8
Trees or shrubs > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 3
Trees, shrubs, and ungrazed herbaceous < 1/3 area of the wetland points = 0
Total for R 1 Add the points in the boxes above 0
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 2.1. Is the wetland within an incorporated city or within its UGA? Yes = 2 No = 0 2
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Other Sources Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for R 2 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 - 6 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 3 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
1
R 2.4. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that
generate pollutants?1
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
R 3.3. Has the site been identified in a watershed or local plan as important
for maintaining water quality? (answer YES if there is a TMDL for the
drainage in which the unit is found )
2
0
0
R 3.2. Is the wetland along a stream or river that has TMDL limits for
nutrients, toxics, or pathogens?
R 2.3. Does at least 10% of the contributing basin contain tilled fields,
pastures, or forests that have been clearcut within the last 5 years?
R 2.5. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are
not listed in questions R 2.1 - R 2.4?
Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality
R 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality?
0
R 3.1. Is the wetland along a stream or river that is on the 303(d) list or on a
tributary that drains to one within 1 mi?1
R 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society?
R 1.1. Area of surface depressions within the Riverine wetland that can trap sediments during a
flooding event:
R 1.2. Structure of plants in the wetland (areas with >90% cover at person height, not Cowardin
classes)
R 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site?
R 2.2. Does the contributing basin to the wetland include a UGA or
incorporated area?
0
0
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 5 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
R 4.1. Characteristics of the overbank storage the wetland provides:
If the ratio is more than 20 points = 9
If the ratio is 10 - 20 points = 6
If the ratio is 5 - < 10 points = 4
If the ratio is 1 - < 5 points = 2
If the ratio is < 1 points = 1
Forest or shrub for > 1/3 area OR emergent plants > 2/3 area points = 7
Forest or shrub for > 1/10 area OR emergent plants > 1/3 area points = 4
Plants do not meet above criteria points = 0
Total for R 4 Add the points in the boxes above 2
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 5.1. Is the stream or river adjacent to the wetland downcut? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
R 5.2. Does the up-gradient watershed include a UGA or incorporated area? Yes = 1 No = 0 1
R 5.3 Is the up-gradient stream or river controlled by dams? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
Total for R 5 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 6.1. Distance to the nearest areas downstream that have flooding problems?
Choose the description that best fits the site.
points = 2
Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-gradient points = 1
No flooding problems anywhere downstream points = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 6 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood
conveyance in a regional flood control plan?2
R 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society?
The sub-basin immediately down-gradient of the wetland has
flooding problems that result in damage to human or natural
resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds)
2
Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that site functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion
R 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion?
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Estimate the average width of the wetland perpendicular to the direction of the flow and the width
of the stream or river channel (distance between banks). Calculate the ratio: (average width of
wetland)/(average width of stream between banks).
2
R 4.2. Characteristics of plants that slow down water velocities during floods: Treat large woody
debris as forest or shrub. Choose the points appropriate for the best description (polygons need
to have >90% cover at person height. These are NOT Cowardin classes ).0
R 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the hydrologic functions of the site?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 6 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat
H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat?
Aquatic bed 4 structures or more: points = 4
Emergent 3 structures: points = 2
Scrub-shrub (areas where shrubs have > 30% cover)2 structures: points - 1
Forested (areas where trees have > 30% cover)1 structure: points = 0
If the unit has a Forested class, check if :
H 1.2. Hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present: points = 3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present: points = 2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present: points = 1
Saturated only 1 types present: points = 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
H 1.3. Richness of plant species
If you counted: > 19 species points = 2
5 - 19 species points = 1
< 5 species points = 0
H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats
None = 0 points Low = 1 point
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime
has to cover more than 10% of the wetland or ¼ ac to count (see text for descriptions of
hydroperiods ).
1
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2.
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes.
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
1
H 1.1. Structure of plant community: Indicators are Cowardin classes and strata within the
Forested class. Check the Cowardin plant classes in the wetland. Up to 10 patches may be
combined for each class to meet the threshold of ¼ ac or more than 10% of the unit if it is smaller
than 2.5 ac. Add the number of structures checked.
Moderate = 2 points
All three diagrams
in this row are
HIGH = 3 points
1
Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do
not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple
loosestrife, Canadian thistle 1
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion among Cowardin plants classes
(described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats)
is high, moderate, low, or none. If you have four or more plant classes or three classes and open
water, the rating is always high.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 7 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
H 1.5. Special habitat features:
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long)
Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland
Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 6
Rating of Site Potential If Score is: 15 - 18 = H 7 - 14 = M 0 - 6 = L Record the rating on the first page
H 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the habitat function of the site?
H 2.1 Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit ).
Calculate:
16 % undisturbed habitat + ( 8 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 20%
If total accessible habitat is:
> 1/3 (33.3%) of 1 km Polygon points = 3
20 - 33% of 1 km Polygon points = 2
10 - 19% of 1 km Polygon points = 1
< 10 % of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.2. Undisturbed habitat in 1 km Polygon around the wetland.
Calculate:
37 % undisturbed habitat + ( 21 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 47.5%
Undisturbed habitat > 50% of Polygon points = 3
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and in 1-3 patches points = 2
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and > 3 patches points = 1
Undisturbed habitat < 10% of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.3 Land use intensity in 1 km Polygon: If
> 50% of 1 km Polygon is high intensity land use points = (-2)
≤ 50% of 1km Polygon is high intensity points = 0
Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If Score is: 4 - 6 = H 1 - 3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page
Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2
It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)
It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species
Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) with in 100m points = 1
Site does not meet any of the criteria above points = 0
Rating of Value If Score is: 2 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the
Department of Natural Resources
2
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see
H 1.1 for list of strata )
2
It has been categorized as an important habitat site in a local or
regional comprehensive plan, in a Shoreline Master Plan, or in a
watershed plan
H 3.0. Is the habitat provided by the site valuable to society?
H 3.1. Does the site provide habitat for species valued in laws, regulations, or policies? Choose
only the highest score that applies to the wetland being rated .
It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant
or animal on the state or federal lists)
2
1
0
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number
of points.
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft (2 m) and/or overhanging plants extends
at least 3.3 ft (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the wetland, for at
least 33 ft (10 m)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 weathered where wood is exposed )
At least ¼ ac of thin-stemmed persistent plants or woody branches are present in areas
that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians )
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 8 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.
Oregon White Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy
coverage of the oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158 – see
web link above ).
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 form of a
dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161 – see web link above ).
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 – see web link on previous page ).
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 > 20 in (51 cm) in western Washington and are > 6.5 ft (2 m) in height. Priority logs are > 12
in (30 cm) in diameter at the largest end, and > 20 ft (6 m) long.
Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.5 - 6.5 ft (0.15 - 2.0 m),
composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May
be associated with cliffs.
Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are
addressed elsewhere.
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.
WDFW Priority Habitats
Count how many of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft (100 m) of the wetland unit: NOTE : This
question is independent of the land use between the wetland unit and the priority habitat.
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 ).
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 8 trees/ac (20 trees/ha)
> 32 in (81 cm) dbh or > 200 years of age. Mature forests – Stands with average diameters
exceeding 21 in (53 cm) dbh; crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of
snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80-200
years old west of the Cascade crest.
Priority habitats listed by WDFW (see complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in
which they can be found, in: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Priority Habitat and Species
List. Olympia, Washington. 177 pp.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00165/wdfw00165.pdf or access the list from here:
http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 9 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. List the category when the appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0. Estuarine Wetlands
Does the wetland 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 1.1 No = Not an estuarine wetland
SC 1.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2.Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV)
SC 2.1.
Yes - Go to SC 2.2 No - Go to SC 2.3
SC 2.2. Is the wetland listed on the WDNR database as a Wetland of High Conservation Value?
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 2.3. Is the wetland in a Section/Township/Range that contains a Natural Heritage wetland?
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf
Yes - Contact WNHP/WDNR and to SC 2.4 No = Not WHCV
SC 2.4.
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 3.0. Bogs
SC 3.1.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No - Go to SC 3.2
SC 3.2.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog
SC 3.3.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No - Go to SC 3.4
SC 3.4.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Is the wetland 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?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing,
and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. (If non-native species are
Spartina , see page 25)
At least ¾ 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 two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with
open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation
Value and listed it on their website?
Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list
of Wetlands of High Conservation Value?
Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation
in bogs? Use the key below. If you answer YES you will still need to rate the
wetland based on its functions .
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soil horizons, either peats or mucks,
that compose 16 in or more of the first 32 in of the soil profile?
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are
less than 16 in deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic
ash, or that are floating on top of a lake or pond?
Does an area with peats or mucks have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground
level, AND at least a 30% cover of plant species listed in Table 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 in deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the plant species in Table 4 are present,
the wetland is a bog.
Is an area with peats or mucks forested (> 30% cover) with Sitka spruce, subalpine fir,
western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Engelmann
spruce, or western white pine, AND any of the species (or combination of species) listed
in Table 4 provide more than 30% of the cover under the canopy?
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 10 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland G
SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands
Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section
SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
Yes - Go to SC 5.1 No = Not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1. Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions?
The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2)
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
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
Yes - Go to SC 6.1 No = Not an interdunal wetland for rating
SC 6.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 6.2
SC 6.2. Is the wetland 1 ac or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 ac or larger?
Yes = Category II No - Go to SC 6.3
SC 6.3.
Yes = Category III No = Category IV
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form
Does the wetland have at least 1 contiguous acre of forest that meets one of these
criteria for the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife’s forests as priority habitats? If you
answer YES you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests (west of Cascade crest): Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/ac
(20 trees/ha) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height
(dbh) of 32 in (81 cm) or more.
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 ponded 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 bottom )
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing),
and has less than 20% cover of aggressive, opportunistic plant species (see list of
species on p. 100).
Mature forests (west of the Cascade Crest): Stands where the largest trees are 80-
200 years old OR the species that make up the canopy have an average diameter (dbh)
exceeding 21 in (53 cm).
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland
based on its habitat functions.
Is the wetland 1 ac or larger and scores an 8 or 9 for the habitat functions on the form
(rates H,H,H or H,H,M for the three aspects of function)?
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 ac, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and
1 ac?
At least ¾ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft buffer of shrub, forest, or un-
grazed or un-mowed grassland.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 11 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
Name of wetland (or ID #): Date of site visit: 7/132018
Rated by Trained by Ecology? Yes No Date of training Oct-15
HGM Class used for rating Wetland has multiple HGM classes? Yes No
NOTE: Form is not complete with out the figures requested (figures can be combined ).
Source of base aerial photo/map
OVERALL WETLAND CATEGORY (based on functions or special characteristics )
1. Category of wetland based on FUNCTIONS
Category I - Total score = 23 - 27 Score for each
X Category II - Total score = 20 - 22 function based
Category III - Total score = 16 - 19 on three
Category IV - Total score = 9 - 15 ratings
(order of ratings
is not
important )
M L 9 = H, H, H
H M 8 = H, H, M
HHTotal 7 = H, H, L
7 = H, M, M
6 = H, M, L
6 = M, M, M
5 = H, L, L
5 = M, M, L
4 = M, L, L
3 = L, L, L
2. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
X
King County Aerial 2017
None of the above
Riverine & Fresh Water Tidal
Coastal Lagoon
Interdunal
Value
Score Based on
Ratings 88622
H
Improving
Water Quality
MSite Potential
Landscape Potential
Habitat
H
FUNCTION
CHARACTERISTIC Category
Estuarine
Wetland of High Conservation Value
Bog
Mature Forest
Old Growth Forest
RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington
List appropriate rating (H, M, L)
Hydrologic
Madsen Creek - Wetland H
Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 1 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
Maps and Figures required to answer questions correctly for
Western Washington
Depressional Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
Map of the contributing basin
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Riverine Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes C4
Hydroperiods C10
Ponded depressions C10
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure ) C10
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants C4
Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure ) C10
Map of the contributing basin C18
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) C19
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) C20
Lake Fringe Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Slope Wetlands
Map of:Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
(can be added to another figure )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
To answer questions:
L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4
R 3.2, R 3.3
S 3.1, S 3.2
S 3.3
To answer questions:
D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4
D 1.4, H 1.2
D 1.1, D 4.1
D 2.2, D 5.2
D 4.3, D 5.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
D 3.1, D 3.2
D 3.3
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
R 1.1
R 2.4
R 1.2, R 4.2
R 4.1
C16
L 2.2
L 3.1, L 3.2
L 3.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
R 3.1
R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 1.2
S 4.1
S 2.1, S 5.1
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
S 1.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 2 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
For questions 1 -7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides except during floods?
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe - go to 1.1
1.1 Is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NO - 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 unit meet all of the following criteria?
NO - go to 4 YES - The wetland class is Lake Fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ),
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
NO - go to 5 YES - The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years.
NO - go to 6 YES - The wetland class is Riverine
NOTE: The Riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
If hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1 - 7 apply, and go to
Question 8.
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
plants on the surface at any time of the year) at least 20 ac (8 ha) in size;
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.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow
depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 ft deep).
HGM Classification of Wetland in Western Washington
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m).
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands.
If it is Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is an Estuarine wetland and is not scored. This method cannot be
used to score functions for estuarine wetlands.
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding
from that stream or river,
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 3 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
NO - go to 7 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NO - go to 8 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS:
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at
some time during the year? This means that any outlet, if present, is higher than the interior of the wetland.
If you are still unable to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or if you have more than
2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other
class of freshwater wetland
HGM class to
use in rating
Riverine
Depressional
Lake Fringe
Depressional
Depressional
Riverine
Treat as
ESTUARINE
Slope + Lake Fringe
7. Is the entire wetland unit 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.
8. 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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE
HYDROLOGIC 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 the wetland unit being scored.
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 HGM class listed in column 2 is less than 10%
of the unit; classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area.
HGM classes within the wetland unit
being rated
Slope + Riverine
Slope + Depressional
Depressional + Riverine along stream
within boundary of depression
Depressional + Lake Fringe
Riverine + Lake Fringe
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 4 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
Depressions cover > 3/4 area of wetland points = 8
Depressions cover > ½ area of wetland points = 4
Depressions present but cover < ½ area of wetland points = 2
No depressions present points = 0
Trees or shrubs > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 8
Trees or shrubs > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 3
Trees, shrubs, and ungrazed herbaceous < 1/3 area of the wetland points = 0
Total for R 1 Add the points in the boxes above 6
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 2.1. Is the wetland within an incorporated city or within its UGA? Yes = 2 No = 0 2
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Other Sources Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for R 2 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 - 6 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 3 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality
R 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality?
0
R 3.1. Is the wetland along a stream or river that is on the 303(d) list or on a
tributary that drains to one within 1 mi?1
R 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society?
R 1.1. Area of surface depressions within the Riverine wetland that can trap sediments during a
flooding event:
R 1.2. Structure of plants in the wetland (areas with >90% cover at person height, not Cowardin
classes)
R 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site?
R 2.2. Does the contributing basin to the wetland include a UGA or
incorporated area?
0
0
R 3.3. Has the site been identified in a watershed or local plan as important
for maintaining water quality? (answer YES if there is a TMDL for the
drainage in which the unit is found )
2
0
6
R 3.2. Is the wetland along a stream or river that has TMDL limits for
nutrients, toxics, or pathogens?
R 2.3. Does at least 10% of the contributing basin contain tilled fields,
pastures, or forests that have been clearcut within the last 5 years?
R 2.5. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are
not listed in questions R 2.1 - R 2.4?
1
R 2.4. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that
generate pollutants?1
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 5 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
R 4.1. Characteristics of the overbank storage the wetland provides:
If the ratio is more than 20 points = 9
If the ratio is 10 - 20 points = 6
If the ratio is 5 - < 10 points = 4
If the ratio is 1 - < 5 points = 2
If the ratio is < 1 points = 1
Forest or shrub for > 1/3 area OR emergent plants > 2/3 area points = 7
Forest or shrub for > 1/10 area OR emergent plants > 1/3 area points = 4
Plants do not meet above criteria points = 0
Total for R 4 Add the points in the boxes above 6
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 5.1. Is the stream or river adjacent to the wetland downcut? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
R 5.2. Does the up-gradient watershed include a UGA or incorporated area? Yes = 1 No = 0 1
R 5.3 Is the up-gradient stream or river controlled by dams? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
Total for R 5 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 6.1. Distance to the nearest areas downstream that have flooding problems?
Choose the description that best fits the site.
points = 2
Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-gradient points = 1
No flooding problems anywhere downstream points = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 6 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
2
R 4.2. Characteristics of plants that slow down water velocities during floods: Treat large woody
debris as forest or shrub. Choose the points appropriate for the best description (polygons need
to have >90% cover at person height. These are NOT Cowardin classes ).4
R 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the hydrologic functions of the site?
R 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society?
The sub-basin immediately down-gradient of the wetland has
flooding problems that result in damage to human or natural
resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds)
2
Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that site functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion
R 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion?
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Estimate the average width of the wetland perpendicular to the direction of the flow and the width
of the stream or river channel (distance between banks). Calculate the ratio: (average width of
wetland)/(average width of stream between banks).
R 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood
conveyance in a regional flood control plan?2
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 6 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat
H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat?
Aquatic bed 4 structures or more: points = 4
Emergent 3 structures: points = 2
Scrub-shrub (areas where shrubs have > 30% cover)2 structures: points - 1
Forested (areas where trees have > 30% cover)1 structure: points = 0
If the unit has a Forested class, check if :
H 1.2. Hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present: points = 3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present: points = 2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present: points = 1
Saturated only 1 types present: points = 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
H 1.3. Richness of plant species
If you counted: > 19 species points = 2
5 - 19 species points = 1
< 5 species points = 0
H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats
All three diagrams
in this row are
HIGH = 3 points
1
Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do
not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple
loosestrife, Canadian thistle 1
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion among Cowardin plants classes
(described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats)
is high, moderate, low, or none. If you have four or more plant classes or three classes and open
water, the rating is always high.
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime
has to cover more than 10% of the wetland or ¼ ac to count (see text for descriptions of
hydroperiods ).
1
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2.
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes.
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
1
H 1.1. Structure of plant community: Indicators are Cowardin classes and strata within the
Forested class. Check the Cowardin plant classes in the wetland. Up to 10 patches may be
combined for each class to meet the threshold of ¼ ac or more than 10% of the unit if it is smaller
than 2.5 ac. Add the number of structures checked.
Moderate = 2 pointsNone = 0 points Low = 1 point
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 7 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
H 1.5. Special habitat features:
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long)
Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland
Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 5
Rating of Site Potential If Score is: 15 - 18 = H 7 - 14 = M 0 - 6 = L Record the rating on the first page
H 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the habitat function of the site?
H 2.1 Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit ).
Calculate:
16 % undisturbed habitat + ( 8 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 20%
If total accessible habitat is:
> 1/3 (33.3%) of 1 km Polygon points = 3
20 - 33% of 1 km Polygon points = 2
10 - 19% of 1 km Polygon points = 1
< 10 % of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.2. Undisturbed habitat in 1 km Polygon around the wetland.
Calculate:
37 % undisturbed habitat + ( 21 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 47.5%
Undisturbed habitat > 50% of Polygon points = 3
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and in 1-3 patches points = 2
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and > 3 patches points = 1
Undisturbed habitat < 10% of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.3 Land use intensity in 1 km Polygon: If
> 50% of 1 km Polygon is high intensity land use points = (-2)
≤ 50% of 1km Polygon is high intensity points = 0
Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If Score is: 4 - 6 = H 1 - 3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page
Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2
It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)
It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species
Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) with in 100m points = 1
Site does not meet any of the criteria above points = 0
Rating of Value If Score is: 2 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
2
1
0
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number
of points.
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft (2 m) and/or overhanging plants extends
at least 3.3 ft (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the wetland, for at
least 33 ft (10 m)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 weathered where wood is exposed )
At least ¼ ac of thin-stemmed persistent plants or woody branches are present in areas
that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians )
It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the
Department of Natural Resources
2
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see
H 1.1 for list of strata )
1
It has been categorized as an important habitat site in a local or
regional comprehensive plan, in a Shoreline Master Plan, or in a
watershed plan
H 3.0. Is the habitat provided by the site valuable to society?
H 3.1. Does the site provide habitat for species valued in laws, regulations, or policies? Choose
only the highest score that applies to the wetland being rated .
It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant
or animal on the state or federal lists)
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 8 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.
WDFW Priority Habitats
Count how many of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft (100 m) of the wetland unit: NOTE : This
question is independent of the land use between the wetland unit and the priority habitat.
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 ).
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 8 trees/ac (20 trees/ha)
> 32 in (81 cm) dbh or > 200 years of age. Mature forests – Stands with average diameters
exceeding 21 in (53 cm) dbh; crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of
snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80-200
years old west of the Cascade crest.
Priority habitats listed by WDFW (see complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in
which they can be found, in: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Priority Habitat and Species
List. Olympia, Washington. 177 pp.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00165/wdfw00165.pdf or access the list from here:
http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/
Oregon White Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy
coverage of the oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158 – see
web link above ).
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 form of a
dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161 – see web link above ).
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 – see web link on previous page ).
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 > 20 in (51 cm) in western Washington and are > 6.5 ft (2 m) in height. Priority logs are > 12
in (30 cm) in diameter at the largest end, and > 20 ft (6 m) long.
Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.5 - 6.5 ft (0.15 - 2.0 m),
composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May
be associated with cliffs.
Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are
addressed elsewhere.
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.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 9 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. List the category when the appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0. Estuarine Wetlands
Does the wetland 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 1.1 No = Not an estuarine wetland
SC 1.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2.Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV)
SC 2.1.
Yes - Go to SC 2.2 No - Go to SC 2.3
SC 2.2. Is the wetland listed on the WDNR database as a Wetland of High Conservation Value?
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 2.3. Is the wetland in a Section/Township/Range that contains a Natural Heritage wetland?
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf
Yes - Contact WNHP/WDNR and to SC 2.4 No = Not WHCV
SC 2.4.
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 3.0. Bogs
SC 3.1.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No - Go to SC 3.2
SC 3.2.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog
SC 3.3.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No - Go to SC 3.4
SC 3.4.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog
Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation
Value and listed it on their website?
Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list
of Wetlands of High Conservation Value?
Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation
in bogs? Use the key below. If you answer YES you will still need to rate the
wetland based on its functions .
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soil horizons, either peats or mucks,
that compose 16 in or more of the first 32 in of the soil profile?
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are
less than 16 in deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic
ash, or that are floating on top of a lake or pond?
Does an area with peats or mucks have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground
level, AND at least a 30% cover of plant species listed in Table 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 in deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the plant species in Table 4 are present,
the wetland is a bog.
Is an area with peats or mucks forested (> 30% cover) with Sitka spruce, subalpine fir,
western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Engelmann
spruce, or western white pine, AND any of the species (or combination of species) listed
in Table 4 provide more than 30% of the cover under the canopy?
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Is the wetland 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?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing,
and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. (If non-native species are
Spartina , see page 25)
At least ¾ 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 two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with
open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 10 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland H
SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands
Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section
SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
Yes - Go to SC 5.1 No = Not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1. Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions?
The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2)
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
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
Yes - Go to SC 6.1 No = Not an interdunal wetland for rating
SC 6.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 6.2
SC 6.2. Is the wetland 1 ac or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 ac or larger?
Yes = Category II No - Go to SC 6.3
SC 6.3.
Yes = Category III No = Category IV
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland
based on its habitat functions.
Is the wetland 1 ac or larger and scores an 8 or 9 for the habitat functions on the form
(rates H,H,H or H,H,M for the three aspects of function)?
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 ac, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and
1 ac?
At least ¾ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft buffer of shrub, forest, or un-
grazed or un-mowed grassland.
Does the wetland have at least 1 contiguous acre of forest that meets one of these
criteria for the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife’s forests as priority habitats? If you
answer YES you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests (west of Cascade crest): Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/ac
(20 trees/ha) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height
(dbh) of 32 in (81 cm) or more.
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 ponded 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 bottom )
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing),
and has less than 20% cover of aggressive, opportunistic plant species (see list of
species on p. 100).
Mature forests (west of the Cascade Crest): Stands where the largest trees are 80-
200 years old OR the species that make up the canopy have an average diameter (dbh)
exceeding 21 in (53 cm).
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 11 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
Name of wetland (or ID #): Date of site visit: 7/132018
Rated by Trained by Ecology? Yes No Date of training Oct-15
HGM Class used for rating Wetland has multiple HGM classes? Yes No
NOTE: Form is not complete with out the figures requested (figures can be combined ).
Source of base aerial photo/map
OVERALL WETLAND CATEGORY II (based on functions or special characteristics )
1. Category of wetland based on FUNCTIONS
Category I - Total score = 23 - 27 Score for each
X Category II - Total score = 20 - 22 function based
Category III - Total score = 16 - 19 on three
Category IV - Total score = 9 - 15 ratings
(order of ratings
is not
important )
M L 9 = H, H, H
H M 8 = H, H, M
HHTotal 7 = H, H, L
7 = H, M, M
6 = H, M, L
6 = M, M, M
5 = H, L, L
5 = M, M, L
4 = M, L, L
3 = L, L, L
2. Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
X
King County Aerial 2017
None of the above
Riverine & Fresh Water Tidal
Coastal Lagoon
Interdunal
Value
Score Based on
Ratings 88622
H
Improving
Water Quality
MSite Potential
Landscape Potential
Habitat
H
FUNCTION
CHARACTERISTIC Category
Estuarine
Wetland of High Conservation Value
Bog
Mature Forest
Old Growth Forest
RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington
List appropriate rating (H, M, L)
Hydrologic
Madsen Creek - Wetland I
Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 1 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
Maps and Figures required to answer questions correctly for
Western Washington
Depressional Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
Map of the contributing basin
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Riverine Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes C5
Hydroperiods C11
Ponded depressions C11
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure ) C11
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants C5
Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure ) C11
Map of the contributing basin C18
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) C19
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) C20
Lake Fringe Wetlands
Map of: Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
Slope Wetlands
Map of:Figure #
Cowardin plant classes
Hydroperiods
Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants
(can be added to another figure )
Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure )
1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including
polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat
Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website)
Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web)
To answer questions:
L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4
R 3.2, R 3.3
S 3.1, S 3.2
S 3.3
To answer questions:
D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4
D 1.4, H 1.2
D 1.1, D 4.1
D 2.2, D 5.2
D 4.3, D 5.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
D 3.1, D 3.2
D 3.3
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
R 1.1
R 2.4
R 1.2, R 4.2
R 4.1
C17
L 2.2
L 3.1, L 3.2
L 3.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
R 3.1
R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
L 1.2
S 4.1
S 2.1, S 5.1
To answer questions:
H 1.1, H 1.4
H 1.2
S 1.3
H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 2 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
For questions 1 -7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides except during floods?
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe - go to 1.1
1.1 Is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NO - 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 unit meet all of the following criteria?
NO - go to 4 YES - The wetland class is Lake Fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ),
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
NO - go to 5 YES - The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years.
NO - go to 6 YES - The wetland class is Riverine
NOTE: The Riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
If hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1 - 7 apply, and go to
Question 8.
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
plants on the surface at any time of the year) at least 20 ac (8 ha) in size;
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.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and shallow
depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 ft diameter and less than 1 ft deep).
HGM Classification of Wetland in Western Washington
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m).
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands.
If it is Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is an Estuarine wetland and is not scored. This method cannot be
used to score functions for estuarine wetlands.
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding
from that stream or river,
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 3 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
NO - go to 7 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NO - go to 8 YES - The wetland class is Depressional
NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS:
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at
some time during the year? This means that any outlet, if present, is higher than the interior of the wetland.
If you are still unable to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or if you have more than
2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other
class of freshwater wetland
HGM class to
use in rating
Riverine
Depressional
Lake Fringe
Depressional
Depressional
Riverine
Treat as
ESTUARINE
Slope + Lake Fringe
7. Is the entire wetland unit 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.
8. 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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE
HYDROLOGIC 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 the wetland unit being scored.
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 HGM class listed in column 2 is less than 10%
of the unit; classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90% of the total area.
HGM classes within the wetland unit
being rated
Slope + Riverine
Slope + Depressional
Depressional + Riverine along stream
within boundary of depression
Depressional + Lake Fringe
Riverine + Lake Fringe
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 4 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
Depressions cover > 3/4 area of wetland points = 8
Depressions cover > ½ area of wetland points = 4
Depressions present but cover < ½ area of wetland points = 2
No depressions present points = 0
Trees or shrubs > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 8
Trees or shrubs > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 2/3 area of the wetland points = 6
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 1/3 area of the wetland points = 3
Trees, shrubs, and ungrazed herbaceous < 1/3 area of the wetland points = 0
Total for R 1 Add the points in the boxes above 8
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 2.1. Is the wetland within an incorporated city or within its UGA? Yes = 2 No = 0 2
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Other Sources Yes = 1 No = 0
Total for R 2 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 - 6 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 1 No = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 3 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality
R 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality?
0
R 3.1. Is the wetland along a stream or river that is on the 303(d) list or on a
tributary that drains to one within 1 mi?1
R 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society?
R 1.1. Area of surface depressions within the Riverine wetland that can trap sediments during a
flooding event:
R 1.2. Structure of plants in the wetland (areas with >90% cover at person height, not Cowardin
classes)
R 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site?
R 2.2. Does the contributing basin to the wetland include a UGA or
incorporated area?
0
0
R 3.3. Has the site been identified in a watershed or local plan as important
for maintaining water quality? (answer YES if there is a TMDL for the
drainage in which the unit is found )
2
0
8
R 3.2. Is the wetland along a stream or river that has TMDL limits for
nutrients, toxics, or pathogens?
R 2.3. Does at least 10% of the contributing basin contain tilled fields,
pastures, or forests that have been clearcut within the last 5 years?
R 2.5. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are
not listed in questions R 2.1 - R 2.4?
1
R 2.4. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that
generate pollutants?1
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 5 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
R 4.1. Characteristics of the overbank storage the wetland provides:
If the ratio is more than 20 points = 9
If the ratio is 10 - 20 points = 6
If the ratio is 5 - < 10 points = 4
If the ratio is 1 - < 5 points = 2
If the ratio is < 1 points = 1
Forest or shrub for > 1/3 area OR emergent plants > 2/3 area points = 7
Forest or shrub for > 1/10 area OR emergent plants > 1/3 area points = 4
Plants do not meet above criteria points = 0
Total for R 4 Add the points in the boxes above 6
Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 - 16 = H 6 - 11 = M 0 - 5 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 5.1. Is the stream or river adjacent to the wetland downcut? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
R 5.2. Does the up-gradient watershed include a UGA or incorporated area? Yes = 1 No = 0 1
R 5.3 Is the up-gradient stream or river controlled by dams? Yes = 0 No = 1 1
Total for R 5 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
R 6.1. Distance to the nearest areas downstream that have flooding problems?
Choose the description that best fits the site.
points = 2
Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-gradient points = 1
No flooding problems anywhere downstream points = 0
Yes = 2 No = 0
Total for R 6 Add the points in the boxes above 4
Rating of Value If score is: 2 - 4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
2
R 4.2. Characteristics of plants that slow down water velocities during floods: Treat large woody
debris as forest or shrub. Choose the points appropriate for the best description (polygons need
to have >90% cover at person height. These are NOT Cowardin classes ).4
R 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the hydrologic functions of the site?
R 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society?
The sub-basin immediately down-gradient of the wetland has
flooding problems that result in damage to human or natural
resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds)
2
Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that site functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion
R 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion?
RIVERINE AND FRESHWATER TIDAL FRINGE WETLANDS
Estimate the average width of the wetland perpendicular to the direction of the flow and the width
of the stream or river channel (distance between banks). Calculate the ratio: (average width of
wetland)/(average width of stream between banks).
R 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood
conveyance in a regional flood control plan?2
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 6 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat
H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat?
Aquatic bed 4 structures or more: points = 4
Emergent 3 structures: points = 2
Scrub-shrub (areas where shrubs have > 30% cover)2 structures: points - 1
Forested (areas where trees have > 30% cover)1 structure: points = 0
If the unit has a Forested class, check if :
H 1.2. Hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present: points = 3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present: points = 2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present: points = 1
Saturated only 1 types present: points = 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
H 1.3. Richness of plant species
If you counted: > 19 species points = 2
5 - 19 species points = 1
< 5 species points = 0
H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats
All three diagrams
in this row are
HIGH = 3 points
1
Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do
not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple
loosestrife, Canadian thistle 1
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion among Cowardin plants classes
(described in H 1.1), or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or mudflats)
is high, moderate, low, or none. If you have four or more plant classes or three classes and open
water, the rating is always high.
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water regime
has to cover more than 10% of the wetland or ¼ ac to count (see text for descriptions of
hydroperiods ).
1
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2.
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes.
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
0
H 1.1. Structure of plant community: Indicators are Cowardin classes and strata within the
Forested class. Check the Cowardin plant classes in the wetland. Up to 10 patches may be
combined for each class to meet the threshold of ¼ ac or more than 10% of the unit if it is smaller
than 2.5 ac. Add the number of structures checked.
Moderate = 2 pointsNone = 0 points Low = 1 point
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 7 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
H 1.5. Special habitat features:
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long)
Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland
Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 5
Rating of Site Potential If Score is: 15 - 18 = H 7 - 14 = M 0 - 6 = L Record the rating on the first page
H 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the habitat function of the site?
H 2.1 Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit ).
Calculate:
23 % undisturbed habitat + ( 9 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 27.5%
If total accessible habitat is:
> 1/3 (33.3%) of 1 km Polygon points = 3
20 - 33% of 1 km Polygon points = 2
10 - 19% of 1 km Polygon points = 1
< 10 % of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.2. Undisturbed habitat in 1 km Polygon around the wetland.
Calculate:
37 % undisturbed habitat + ( 23 % moderate & low intensity land uses / 2 ) = 48.5%
Undisturbed habitat > 50% of Polygon points = 3
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and in 1-3 patches points = 2
Undisturbed habitat 10 - 50% and > 3 patches points = 1
Undisturbed habitat < 10% of 1 km Polygon points = 0
H 2.3 Land use intensity in 1 km Polygon: If
> 50% of 1 km Polygon is high intensity land use points = (-2)
≤ 50% of 1km Polygon is high intensity points = 0
Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above 3
Rating of Landscape Potential If Score is: 4 - 6 = H 1 - 3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page
Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2
It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)
It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species
Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) with in 100m points = 1
Site does not meet any of the criteria above points = 0
Rating of Value If Score is: 2 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page
2
1
0
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number
of points.
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft (2 m) and/or overhanging plants extends
at least 3.3 ft (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in, or contiguous with the wetland, for at
least 33 ft (10 m)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 weathered where wood is exposed )
At least ¼ ac of thin-stemmed persistent plants or woody branches are present in areas
that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by amphibians )
It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the
Department of Natural Resources
2
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see
H 1.1 for list of strata )
2
It has been categorized as an important habitat site in a local or
regional comprehensive plan, in a Shoreline Master Plan, or in a
watershed plan
H 3.0. Is the habitat provided by the site valuable to society?
H 3.1. Does the site provide habitat for species valued in laws, regulations, or policies? Choose
only the highest score that applies to the wetland being rated .
It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant
or animal on the state or federal lists)
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 8 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.
WDFW Priority Habitats
Count how many of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft (100 m) of the wetland unit: NOTE : This
question is independent of the land use between the wetland unit and the priority habitat.
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 ).
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 8 trees/ac (20 trees/ha)
> 32 in (81 cm) dbh or > 200 years of age. Mature forests – Stands with average diameters
exceeding 21 in (53 cm) dbh; crown cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of
snags, and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80-200
years old west of the Cascade crest.
Priority habitats listed by WDFW (see complete descriptions of WDFW priority habitats, and the counties in
which they can be found, in: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Priority Habitat and Species
List. Olympia, Washington. 177 pp.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/00165/wdfw00165.pdf or access the list from here:
http://wdfw.wa.gov/conservation/phs/list/
Oregon White Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where canopy
coverage of the oak component is important (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158 – see
web link above ).
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 form of a
dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 161 – see web link above ).
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 – see web link on previous page ).
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 > 20 in (51 cm) in western Washington and are > 6.5 ft (2 m) in height. Priority logs are > 12
in (30 cm) in diameter at the largest end, and > 20 ft (6 m) long.
Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.5 - 6.5 ft (0.15 - 2.0 m),
composed of basalt, andesite, and/or sedimentary rock, including riprap slides and mine tailings. May
be associated with cliffs.
Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are
addressed elsewhere.
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.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 9 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. List the category when the appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0. Estuarine Wetlands
Does the wetland 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 1.1 No = Not an estuarine wetland
SC 1.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2.Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV)
SC 2.1.
Yes - Go to SC 2.2 No - Go to SC 2.3
SC 2.2. Is the wetland listed on the WDNR database as a Wetland of High Conservation Value?
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 2.3. Is the wetland in a Section/Township/Range that contains a Natural Heritage wetland?
http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/datasearch/wnhpwetlands.pdf
Yes - Contact WNHP/WDNR and to SC 2.4 No = Not WHCV
SC 2.4.
Yes = Category I No = Not WHCV
SC 3.0. Bogs
SC 3.1.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No - Go to SC 3.2
SC 3.2.
Yes - Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog
SC 3.3.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No - Go to SC 3.4
SC 3.4.
Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog
Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation
Value and listed it on their website?
Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list
of Wetlands of High Conservation Value?
Does the wetland (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetation
in bogs? Use the key below. If you answer YES you will still need to rate the
wetland based on its functions .
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soil horizons, either peats or mucks,
that compose 16 in or more of the first 32 in of the soil profile?
Does an area within the wetland unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are
less than 16 in deep over bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic
ash, or that are floating on top of a lake or pond?
Does an area with peats or mucks have more than 70% cover of mosses at ground
level, AND at least a 30% cover of plant species listed in Table 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 in deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the plant species in Table 4 are present,
the wetland is a bog.
Is an area with peats or mucks forested (> 30% cover) with Sitka spruce, subalpine fir,
western red cedar, western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Engelmann
spruce, or western white pine, AND any of the species (or combination of species) listed
in Table 4 provide more than 30% of the cover under the canopy?
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Is the wetland 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?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing,
and has less than 10% cover of non-native plant species. (If non-native species are
Spartina , see page 25)
At least ¾ 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 two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions with
open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 10 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland name or number Wetland I
SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands
Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section
SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
Yes - Go to SC 5.1 No = Not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1. Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions?
The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2)
Yes = Category I No = Category II
SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
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
Yes - Go to SC 6.1 No = Not an interdunal wetland for rating
SC 6.1.
Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 6.2
SC 6.2. Is the wetland 1 ac or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 ac or larger?
Yes = Category II No - Go to SC 6.3
SC 6.3.
Yes = Category III No = Category IV
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)? If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland
based on its habitat functions.
Is the wetland 1 ac or larger and scores an 8 or 9 for the habitat functions on the form
(rates H,H,H or H,H,M for the three aspects of function)?
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 ac, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and
1 ac?
At least ¾ of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft buffer of shrub, forest, or un-
grazed or un-mowed grassland.
Does the wetland have at least 1 contiguous acre of forest that meets one of these
criteria for the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife’s forests as priority habitats? If you
answer YES you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests (west of Cascade crest): Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8 trees/ac
(20 trees/ha) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast height
(dbh) of 32 in (81 cm) or more.
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 ponded 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 bottom )
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation, grazing),
and has less than 20% cover of aggressive, opportunistic plant species (see list of
species on p. 100).
Mature forests (west of the Cascade Crest): Stands where the largest trees are 80-
200 years old OR the species that make up the canopy have an average diameter (dbh)
exceeding 21 in (53 cm).
Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update
Rating Form - Effective January 1, 2015 11 WSDOT Adapted Form - January 14, 2015
Wetland A
6/19/18
Rated by Yes No Date: 2015 Oct
SEC: 22 TWNSHP: 23N RNGE: 05E
Figure C1 19 acres
Category based on FUNCTIONS provided by wetland:
I II III IV
16
6
31
53
Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
III
Final Category (choose the "highest" category from above) II
Wetland Class
Depressional
Natural Heritage Wetland
Check if unit has
multiple HGM classes
present
Coastal Lagoon
None of the above
Interdunal
Comments:
Mature Forest
Category III = Score 30-50
Category IV = Score <30
Score for Habitat Functions
TOTAL score for functions
Estuarine
Bog Lake-fringe
Category II = Score 51-69
Score for Water Quality Functions
Check the appropriate type and class of wetland being rated.
SUMMARY OF RATING
Category I = Score >=70
Wetland Type
Score for Hydrologic Functions
Freshwater Tidal
Flats
Does not Apply
Riverine
Old Growth Forest
Slope
Wetland name or number:
Date of site visit:
Map of wetland unit: Estimated size:
Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear Trained by Ecology?
Is S/T/R in Appendix D? Yes No
WETLAND RATING FORM - WESTERN WASHINGTON
Name of wetland (if known):
Version 2 - Updated July 2006 to increase accuracy and reproducibility among users
Updated Oct. 2008 with the new WDFW definitions for priority habitats
Madsen Creek - Wetland A
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 1 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
Does the wetland unit being rated meet any of the criteria below?
YES NO
SP1.
SP2.
SP3.
SP4.
Does the wetland unit contain individuals of Priority species listed by the
WDFW for the state?
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 management plan as having special
significance.
To complete the next part of the data sheet, you will need to determine the Hydrogeomorphic Class of
the wetland being rated .
The hydrogeomorphic classification groups wetlands into those that function in similar ways. This simplifies the
questions needed to answer how well the wetland functions. The Hydrogeomorphic Class of a wetland can be
determined using the key below. See p. 24 for more detailed instructions on classifying wetlands.
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 categorized
as Category I Natural Heritage Wetlands (see p. 19 of data form).
For the purposes of this rating system, "documented" means the wetland is on the
appropriate state or federal database.
If you answer YES to any of the questions below, you will need to protect the wetland
according to the regulations regarding the special characteristics found in the wetland.
Check List for Wetlands That May Need Special Protection (in addition to the
protection recommended for its category)
Has the wetland unit been documented as a habitat for any federally listed
Threatened or Endangered animal or plant species (T/E species)?
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 2 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
1.
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)
2.
NO - go to 3 YES - the wetland class is Flats
3.
NO - go to 4 YES - the wetland class is Lake-fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4.
NO - go to 5 YES - the wetland class is Slope
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.
Classification of Vegetated Wetlands in Western Washington
If the hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, indentify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1-7 apply and go to
Question 8.
Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides (i.e., except during floods)?
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 feet (2 m)?
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 distinct banks.
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and
shallow depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 feet in diameter and less than 1
foot deep).
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
If YES, is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe, use the forms for Riverine wetlands. If it
is Saltwater Tidal Fringe, it is rated as an Estuarine wetland. Wetlands that were called estuarine in the
first and second editions of the rating system are called Saltwater 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 term "Estuarine" wetland is
being kept. Please note, however, that the characteristics that define Category I and II estuarine wetlands
have changed (see p. xx).
If your wetland can be classified as a "Flats" wetland, use the form for Depressional wetlands.
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water (without any
vegetation on the surface) at least 20 acres (8 ha) in size;
Does the entire wetland unit meet both of the following criteria?
YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 3 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
5.
NO - go to 6 YES - the wetland class is Riverine
6.
NO - go to 7 YES - the wetland class is Depressional
7.
NO - go to 8 YES - the wetland class is Depressional
8.
Slope + Depressional Depressional
Slope + Lake-fringe
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 once every two years.
Lake-fringe
Slope + Riverine Riverine
Class to Use in Rating
Is the entire wetland unit 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 ground water in the
area. The wetland may be ditched, but has no obvious natural outlet.
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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE HYDROLOGIC
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 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 being rated. If the area of the second
class is less than 10% of the unit, classify the wetland using the class that represent more than 90% of the total area.
Depressional + Lake-fringe Depressional
Saltwater Tidal Fringe and any other class of freshwater wetland Treat as ESTUARINE
under wetlands with
special characteristics
If you are unable still to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or you have more than 2 HGM
classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Depressional + Riverine along stream within boundary Depressional
Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
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.
HGM Classes Within a Delineated Wetland Boundary
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 4 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
D 1.Points
D 1.1
Points = 3
Points = 2
Points = 1
Points = 1
Figure __
D 1.2
Points = 4
Points = 0
D 1.3
Points = 5
Points = 3
Points = 1
Points = 0
Figure __
D 1.4
Points = 4
Points = 2
Points = 0
Figure __
D 2.
Multiplier
2
Other:
Residential, urban areas, golf courses are within 150 feet of wetland.
Multiply the score from D 1. by D 2.
YES - multiplier is 2
Map of Cowardin vegetation classes
Tilled fields or orchards within 150 feet of wetland.
Does the wetland unit have the opportunity to improve water quality? (see p. 44)
Answer YES if you know or believe there are pollutants in ground water or surface water coming into
the wetland that would otherwise reduce water quality in streams, lakes, or ground water downgradient
from the wetland. Note which of the following conditions provide the sources of pollutants:
Grazing in the wetland or within 150 feet.
Add the points in the boxes above
Untreated stormwater discharges to wetland.
A stream or culvert discharges into wetland that drains developed areas, residential areas,
farmed fields, roads, or clear-cut logging.
Wetland is fed by ground water high in phosphorus or nitrogen.
16TOTAL - Water Quality Functions
Add score to table on p. 1
NO - multiplier is 1
Area seasonally ponded is >1/4 total area of wetland.
Does the wetland unit have the potential to improve water quality? (see p. 38)
Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland:
2
1Unit has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet (permanently
flowing ).
Characteristics of persistent vegetation (emergent, shrub, and/or forest Cowardin class):
Total for D 1
Provide photo or drawing
Area seasonally ponded is >1/2 total area of wetland.
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation >=1/10 of area.
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation >=95% of area.
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation >=1/2 of area.
The soil 2 inches below the surface (or duff layer) is clay or organic (use NRCS definitions):
Area seasonally ponded is <1/4 total area of wetland.
Map of hydroperiods
Unit is a flat depression (Q. 7 on key) or in the Flats class, with permenent
surface outflow and no obvious natural outlet and/or outlet is a man-made
ditch. (If ditch is not permanently flowing, treat unit as "intermittently
flowing.")
NO
0
5
D Depressional and Flats Wetlands
Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation <1/10 of area
Characteristics of seasonal ponding or inundation.
WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONS - Indicators that wetland functions to improve water quality.
Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it (no outlet)
Unit has an intermittently flowing, or highly constricted permanently flowing
outlet.
8
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 ponded. Estimate area as the
average condition 5 out of 10 years.
YES
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 5 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
D 3.Points
D 3.1
Points = 4
Points = 2
Points = 1
Points = 0
D 3.2
Points = 7
Points = 5
Points = 5
Points = 3
Points = 1
Points = 0
D 3.3
Points = 5
Points = 3
Points = 0
Points = 5
D 4.
Multiplier
Other:2
Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland:
Wetland has no outlet and impounds surface runoff water that might otherwise flow
into a river or stream that has flooding problems.
Wetland drains to a river or stream that has flooding problems.
Contribution of wetland to storage in the watershed.
The area of the basin is <10 times the area of the unit.
Depth of storage during wet periods.
Does wetland unit have the potential to reduce flooding/erosion? (see p. 46)
Wetland is in a headwater of a river or stream that has flooding problems.
0
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 between 2 feet to <3 feet from surface or bottom of outlet.
Marks of ponding are less than 0.5 feet.
Entire unit is in the Flats class (basin=wetland)
Marks are at least 0.5 feet to <2 feet from surface or bottom of outlet.
Note which of the following indicators of opportunity apply:
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.
HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS - Indicators that wetland functions to reduce flooding/stream degradation.
D Depressional and Flats Wetlands
0
Add the points in the boxes above
The area of the basin is >100 times the area of the unit.
Estimate the ratio of the area of upstream basin contributing surface water to the wetland to
the area of the wetland itself.
The area of the basin is 10 to 100 times the area of the unit.
Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it (no outlet).
TOTAL - Hydrologic Functions
Add score to table on p. 1 6
Does wetland unit have the opportunity to reduce flooding/erosion? (see p. 49)
Answer YES if the unit is in a location in the watershed where the flood storage, or reduction
in water velocity, helps protect downstream property and aquatic resources from flooding or
excessive and/or erosive flows.
3
Marks of ponding are 3 feet or more above the surface or bottom of outlet.
Total for D 3
Wetland is flat (yes to Q. 2 or Q. 7 on key) but has small depressions on the
surface that trap water.
Unit has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet
(permanently flowing ).
3The wetland is a "headwater" wetland.
Unit has an intermittently flowing, OR highly constricted permanently
flowing outlet.
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. (If ditch is not permanently flowing, treat unit at
"intermittently flowing.")
Multiply the score from D 3. by D 4.
YES - multiplier is 2 NO - multiplier is 1
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 6 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
H 1.Points
H 1.1
Points = 4
Points = 2
Points = 1
Points = 0
Figure __
H 1.2
Points = 3
Points = 2
Points = 1
Points = 0
Figure __
H 1.3
>19 species Points = 2
5-19 species Points = 1
<5 species Points = 0
9
3
1 type present
Total for page
List species below if you want to:
Freshwater tidal wetland = 2 points
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 sq. ft. (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 Milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple loosestrife,
Canadian Thistle.
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water
regime has to cover more than 10% of the wetland if less than 2.5 acres in size or 1/4 acre to
count (see text for descriptions of hydroperiods).
Permanently flooded or inundated
Seasonally flooded or inundated
2 types presentOccasionally flooded or inundated
Saturated only
Permanently flowing stream or river in, or adjacent to, the wetland
Seasonally flowing stream in, or adjacent to, the wetland
Map of hydroperiods
Lake-fringe wetland = 2 points
Richness of Plant Species (see p. 75)
If you counted:
Aquatic bed
3 types present
Add the number of vegetation types that qualify. If you have:
If the unit has a forested class, check if:
Emergent plants
Forested (areas where trees have >30% cover)
Vegetation structure (see p. 72)
Does the wetland unit have the potential to provide habitat for many species?
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes
4
2
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that wetland functions to provide important habitat.
4 structures or more
3 structures
4 or more types present
1 structure
Hydroperiods (see p. 73)
Map of Cowardin classes
Scrub/shrub (areas where shrubs have >30% cover)
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
2 structures
Check the types of vegetation classes present (as defined by Cowardin). Size threshold for
class is 1/4 acre or more than 10% of the area if unit is smaller than 2.5 acres.
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 7 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
H 1.4 Points
[riparian
braided
channels]
H 1.5
3
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (>4 inches in diameter and 6 feet
long).
High = 3 points
Special Habitat Features (see p. 77)
Moderate = 2 points
Interspersion of Habitats (see p. 76)
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion between Cowardin vegetation classes
(described in H 1.1) or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or
mudflats) is high, medium, low, or none.
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in each stratum of plants.
H 1. TOTAL Score - potential for providing habitat
Add the scores from H1.1, H1.2, H1.3, H1.4, H1.5
Comments:
Note: The 20% stated in early printings of the manual on page 78 is an error.
At least 1/4 acre of thin-stemmed presistent vegetation or woody branches are present
in areas that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by
amphibians ).
None = 0 points Low = 1 point
Stable steep banks of fine material that might be used by beaver/muskrat for denning
(>30° slope) OR signs of recent beaver activity are present (cut shrubs or trees that
have not yet turned brown/gray ).
NOTE: If you have four or more vegetation types or three vegetation types and open water,
the rating is always "high". Use map of Cowardin vegetation classes.
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.
Standing snags (diameter at the bottom >4 inches) in the wetland.
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 feet (2 m) and/or overhanging vegetation
extends at least 3.3 feet (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in or contiguous with the
wetland, for at least 33 feet (10 m).5
17
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 8 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
H 2.Points
H 2.1
Points = 5
Points = 4
Points = 4
Points = 3
Points = 3
Points = 2
Points = 2
Points = 1
Points = 0
Points = 1
Figure __
H 2.2
H 2.2.1
H 2.2.2
H 2.2.3
5
3
NO = go to H 2.2.2
NO = go to H 2.2.3YES = 2 points (go to H 2.3 )
Is the wetland part of a relatively undisturbed/unbroken vegetated corridor (either riparian or
upland) at least 50 feet 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 = 4 points (go to H 2.3 )
Is the wetland part of a relatively undisturbed/unbroken vegetated corridor (riparian or upland)
at least 150 feet wide, has at least 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, and paved roads are
considered breaks in the corridor.)
within 3 miles of a large field or pasture > 40 acres in size OR
Is the wetland:
Heavy grazing in buffer.
Vegetated buffers are <2 m wide (6.6 feet) for more than 95% of the
circumference (e.g., tilled fields, paving, basalt bedrock extend to edge
of wetland).
Buffer does not meet any of the criteria above.
Corridors and Connections (see p. 81)
Aerial photo showing buffers
within 1 mile of a lake greater than 20 acres in size?
YES = 1 point NO = 0 points
100 m (330 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas,
or open water >95% of circumference. No structures are within
undisturbed part of buffer (relatively undisturbed also means no
grazing, no landscaping, no daily human use ).
100 m (330 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas,
or open water >50% of circumference.
50 m (170 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or
open water >95% circumference.
100 m (330 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas,
or open water for >25% circumference.
If buffer does not meet any of the criteria above:
50 m (170 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or
open water for >50% circumference.
No paved areas (except paved trails) or buildings within 25 m (80 feet)
of wetland >95% circumference. Light to moderate grazing, or lawns
are OK.
No paved areas or buildings within 50 m of wetland for >50%
circumference. Light to moderate grazing, or lawns are OK.
within 5 miles (8 km) of a brackish or salt water estuary OR
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."
Does the wetland unit have the opportunity to provide habitat for many species?
Buffers (see p. 80)
Total for page
2
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 9 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
H 2.3 Points
3+ priority habitats = 4 points
2 priority habitats = 3 points No habitats = 0 points
Oregon white Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where
canopy coverage of the oak component is 25% (full descrptions in WDFW PHS
report p. 158 ).
Westside Prairies: Herbaceous, non-forested plant communities that can either take
the form of a dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p.
161 ).
Aspen stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen >0.4 ha (1 acre).
If wetland has:
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.
1 priority habitat = 1 point
Near or Adjacent to Other Priority Habitats Listed by WDFW (see p. 82)
Caves: 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.
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 ).
Which of the following priority habitats are within 330 feet (100 m) of the wetland unit?
NOTE: the connections do not have to be relatively undisturbed. These are DFW definitions.
Check with your local DFW biologist if there are any questions
4
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/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
than 100%; decay, decadance, numbers of snags, and quantity of large downed
material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80 - 200 years old west of the
Cascade crest.
Note: all vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list.
Nearby wetlands are addressed in question H 2.4
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.
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over
bedrock.
Cliffs: Greater than 7.6 m (25 ft) high and occuring below 5,000 ft.
Riparian: The area adjacent to aquatic systems with flowing water that contains
elements of both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems which mutually influence each
other.
Instream: The combination of physical, biological, and chemical processes and
conditions that interact to provide functional life hsitory requirements for instream
fish and wildlife resources.
Nearshore: Relatively undisturbed nearshore habitats. These include Coastal
Nearshore, Open Coastal Nearshore, and Puget Sound Nearshore. (full descriptions
of habitats and the definition of relatively undisturbed are in WDFW report pp. 167-
169 and glossary in Appendix A).
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 10 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
H 2.4 Points
Points = 5
Points = 5
Points = 3
Points = 3
Points = 2
Points = 0
31
The wetland is Lake-fringe on a lake with disturbance, and there are 3
other Lake-fringe wetlands within 1/2 mile.
There is at least 1 wetland within 1/2 mile.
The wetland is Lake-fringe on a lake with little disturbance and there
are 3 other Lake-fringe wetlands within 1/2 mile.
Total Score for Habitat Functions - add the points for H1 and H2, and record the result on p. 1
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).
There are at least 3 other wetlands within 1/2 mile, BUT the connections
between them are disturbed.
There are no wetlands within 1/2 mile.
Wetland Landscape (see p. 84)
Choose the one description of the landscape around the wetland that best fits.
H 2. TOTAL Score - opportunity for providing habitat
Add the scores from H2.1, H2.2, H2.3, H2.4
5
14
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 11 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
SC 1.0
SC 1.1
SC 1.2
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. Check the appropriate Category when the appropriate
criteria are met.
Please determine if the wetland meets the attributes described below and choose the appropriate answers and
Category.
Wetland Type
With a salinity greater than 0.5 ppt.
NO - not an estuarine wetland
Estuarine Wetlands (see p. 86)
Does the wetland unit meet the following criteria for Estuarine wetlands?
The dominant water regime is tidal,
Vegetated, and
YES = Go to SC 1.1
YES = Category I
Is the wetland unit at least 1 acre in size and meeting at least two of the following three
conditions?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation,
grazing, and has <10% cover of non-native plant species. If the non-native Spartina
spp. are the only species that cover >10% of the wetland, then the wetland should be
given a dual rating (I/II). The area of Spartina would be rated a Category II while the
relatively undisturbed upper marsh with native species would be a Category I. Do not,
however, exclude the area of Spartina in determining the size threshold of 1 acre.
Category
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?
NO = Go to SC 1.2
At least 3/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 foot buffer of shrub, forest,
or ungrazed or unmowed grassland.
The wetland has at least two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions
with open water, or continguous freshwater wetlands.
NO = Category II
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
YES = Category I
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 12 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
SC 2.0 Category
SC 2.1
NO
SC 2.2
SC 3.0
1.
2.
3.
4.
YES - is a bog for purpose of rating
NO - not a Heritage wetland
Has DNR identified the wetland as a high quality undisturbed wetland or as a site with state
Threatened or Endangered plant species?
Is the unit forested (>30% cover) with sitka spruce, subalpine fir, western redcedar,
western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Englemann's spruce, or western
white pine, WITH any of the species (or combination of species) on bog species plant
list in Table 3 as a significant component of the ground cover (>30% coverage of
total shrub/herbaceous cover )?
NO - not a bog for purpose of rating
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.
NO - go to Q. 4
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 (>30% of total shrub and herbaceous cover consists of
species in Table 3)?
NO - go to Q. 2
YES - go to Q. 3 NO - not a bog for purpose of rating
YES - Category I
Does the unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are <16 inches deep over
bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic ash, or that are floating
on a lake or pond?
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 the soil profile? (See
Appendix B for a field key to identify organic oils.)
Bogs ( see p. 87)
Does the wetland unit (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.
YES = Category I
YES - go to Q. 3
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.
Is the wetland unit 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
WNHP/DNR.)
S/T/R information from Appendix D or accessed from WNHP/DNR web site
YES - contact WNHP/DNR (see p. 79) and go to SC 3.2
Natural Heritage Wetlands (see p. 87)
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 13 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
SC 4.0 Category
SC 5.0
SC 5.1
YES = Category I NO - not a forested wetland w/ special characteristics
Does the wetland unit have at least 1 acre of forest that meets one of these criteria for the
Department of Fish and Wildlife's forests as priority habitat? If you answer Yes, you will still
need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests: (west of Cascade Crest) Stands of at least 2 tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8
trees/acre (20/hectare) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast
height (dbh) of 32 inches (81 cm) or more.
At least 3/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 foot buffer of shrub, forest,
or ungrazed or unmowed grassland.
The wetland is larger than 1/10 acre (4,350 square feet).
YES = Category I
Does the wetland meet all of the following 3 conditions?
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation,
grazing), and has less than 20% cover of invasive plant species (see list of invasive
species on p. 74).
YES = go to SC 5.1
The lagoon in which the wetland is located contains surface water that is saline or
brackish (>.5 ppt) during most of the year in at leat a portion of the lagoon (needs to
be measured near the bottom ).
Forested Wetlands (see p. 90)
NOTE: The criterion for dbh is based on measurements for upland
forests. 200-year-old trees in wetlands will often have a smaller dbh
because their growth rates are often smaller. The DFW criterion is an
"OR" so old-growth forests do not necessarily have to have trees of this
diameter.
Mature forests: (west of the Cascade Crest) Stands where the largest trees are 80 -
200 years old OR have average diameters (dbh) exceeding 21 inches (53 cm); crown
cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of snags, and quantity of
large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth.
Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons (see p. 91)
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wtland in a coastal lagoon?
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.
NO = Category II
NO - not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 14 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
SC 6.0 Category
SC 6.1
SC 6.2
NA
YES = Category II NO - go to SC 6.2
Is the wetland unit between 0.1 and 1 acre, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1
and 1 acre?
YES = Category III
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
Choose the "highest" rating if wetland falls into several categories, and record on p. 1.
Is wetland 1 acre or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 acre or larger?
If you answered NO for all types, enter "Not Applicable" on p. 1.
Ocean Shores-Copalis - lands west of SR 1115 and SR 109.
If you answer YES, you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Is the wetland unit west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)?
YES - go to SC 6.1 NO - not an interdunal wetland for rating
Long Beach Peninsula - lands west of SR 103
Grayland-Westport - lands west of SR 105
In practical terms, that means the following geographic areas:
Interdunal Wetlands (see p. 93)
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 15 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
Wetland E
7/12/18
Rated by Yes No Date: 2015 Oct.
SEC: 23 TWNSHP: 23 RNGE: 05E
Figure C2 560 SQFT
Category based on FUNCTIONS provided by wetland
I II III IV
20
18
14
52
Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
III
Final Category (choose the "highest" category from above) II
Wetland Class
Depressional
Natural Heritage Wetland
Wetland name or number:
Date of site visit:
Map of wetland unit: Estimated size:
Does not Apply
Estuarine
Bog
Mature Forest
Check the appropriate type and class of wetland being rated.
Riverine
Slope
Lake-fringe
WETLAND RATING FORM - WESTERN WASHINGTON
Name of wetland (if known):
Version 2 - Updated July 2006 to increase accuracy and reproducibility among users
Madsen Creek Project - Wetland E
Is S/T/R in Appendix D? Yes No
Wetland Type
FlatsOld Growth Forest
Anna Hoenig Trained by Ecology?
Category III = Score 30-50
Category IV = Score <30
Score for Habitat Functions
TOTAL score for functions
SUMMARY OF RATING
Category I = Score >=70
Category II = Score 51-69
Score for Water Quality Functions
Score for Hydrologic Functions
Interdunal
Check if multiple HGM
classes are present
Freshwater Tidal
None of the above
Coastal Lagoon
Comments:
Updated Oct. 2008 with the new WDFW definitions for priority habitats
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 1 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
Does the wetland unit being rated meet any of the criteria below?
YES NO
SP1.
SP2.
SP3.
SP4.
To complete the next part of the data sheet, you will need to determine the Hydrogeomorphic Class of
the wetland being rated .
The hydrogeomorphic classification groups wetlands into those that function in similar ways. This simplifies the
questions needed to answer how well the wetland functions. The Hydrogeomorphic Class of a wetland can be
determined using the key below. See p. 24 for more detailed instructions on classifying wetlands.
For the purposes of this rating system, "documented" means the wetland is on the
appropriate state or federal database.
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 management plan as having special
significance.
Has the wetland unit been documented as a habitat for any federally listed
Threatened or Endangered (T/E) plant or 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
categorized as Category I Natural Heritage Wetlands.
Does the wetland unit contain individuals of Priority species listed by the
WDFW for the state?
If you answer YES to any of the questions below, you will need to protect the wetland
according to the regulations regarding the special characteristics found in the wetland.
Check List for Wetlands That May Need Special Protection (in addition to the
protection recommended for its category)
Has the wetland unit been documented as habitat for any state listed Threatened
or Endangered animal species?
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 2 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
1.
NO - go to 2 YES - the wetland class is Tidal Fringe
NO - Saltwater Tidal Fringe (Estuarine)
2.
NO - go to 3 YES - the wetland class is Flats
3.
NO - go to 4 YES - the wetland class is Lake-fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4.
NO - go to 5 YES - the wetland class is Slope
Classification of Vegetated Wetlands in Western Washington
Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
If YES, is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt (parts per thousand)?
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe, use the forms for Riverine wetlands. If it
is Saltwater Tidal Fringe, it is rated as an Estuarine wetland. Wetlands that were called estuarine in the
first and second editions of the rating system are called Saltwater 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 term "Estuarine" wetland is
being kept. Please note, however, that the characteristics that define Category I and II estuarine wetlands
have changed (see p. xx).
If your wetland can be classified as a "Flats" wetland, use the form for Depressional wetlands.
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of open water (without any vegetation on the
surface) where at least 20 acres (8 ha) are permanently inundated (ponded or flooded);
The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is only source (>90%) of water to it. Groundwater and surface
Does the entire wetland unit meet both of the following criteria?
YES - Freshwater Tidal Fringe
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in very small and
shallow depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually <3 feet in diameter and less than 1
foot deep).
If the hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated, you probably have a unit
with multiple HGM classes. In this case, indentify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1-7 apply and go to
Question 8.
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.
Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides (i.e., except during floods)?
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 feet (2 m)?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual ).
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded.
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 3 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
5.
NO - go to 6 YES - the wetland class is Riverine
6.
NO - go to 7 YES - the wetland class is Depressional
7.
NO - go to 8 YES - the wetland class is Depressional
8.
Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
Depressional
Depressional
Slope + Lake-fringe
Slope + Depressional
Lake-fringe
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 of flooding along its sides. GO BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE HYDROLOGIC
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 second class is less than 10% of the unit, classify the wetland using the class that represents more than
90% of the total area.
Slope + Riverine Riverine
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 once every two years.
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.
Is the entire wetland unit located in a very flat area with no obvious depression and no stream or river running
through it and providing water? The wetland seems to be maintained by higher ground water in the area. The
wetland may be ditched, but has no obvious natural outlet.
Saltwater Tidal Fringe and any other class of freshwater wetland Treat as ESTUARINE
under wetlands with
special characteristics
Depressional + Riverine along stream within boundary
HGM Classes Within a Delineated Wetland Boundary Class to Use in Rating
If you are unable still to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or you have more than 2 HGM
classes within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Depressional + Lake-fringe Depressional
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 4 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
R 1.Points
R 1.1
Points = 8
Points = 4
Points = 2
Points = 0
Figure __
R 1.2
Points = 8
Points = 6
Points = 6
Points = 3
Points = 0
Figure __
R 2.
Multiplier
2
Other:
If depressions >1/2 of area of unit, draw polygons on aerial photo or map
Depressions present but cover <1/2 area of wetland
Area of surface depressions within the riverine wetland that can trap sediments during a
flooding event:
Depressions cover >3/4 area of wetland
Depresssions cover >1/2 area 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 feet of wetland
Add score to table on p. 1
Multiply the score from R 1. by R 2.
The river or stream linked to the wetland has a contributing basin where human activities have
raised levels of sediments, toxic compounds, or nutrients in the river water above standards for
water quality
Total for R 1 Add the points in the boxes above
Ungrazed, herbaceous plants >1/3 area of the unit
Trees, shrubs, and ungrazed herbaceous <1/3 area of unit
Tilled fields or orchards within 150 feet of wetland
Does the wetland unit have the opportunity to improve water quality? (see p. 53)
No depressions are present
R Riverine and Freshwater Tidal Fringe Wetlands
Trees or shrubs >2/3 area of the unit
Does the wetland unit have the potential to improve water quality? (see p. 52)
WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONS - Indicators that wetland functions to improve water quality.
Characteristics of the vegetation in the unit (areas with >90% cover at person height):
Trees or shrubs >1/3 area of the unit
Ungrazed, herbaceous plants >2/3 area of the unit
Grazing in the wetland or within 150 feet
Untreated stormwater discharges to wetland
Provide photo or drawing
Answer YES if you know or believe there are pollutants in ground water or surface water coming into
the wetland that would otherwise reduce water quality in streams, lakes, or ground water 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 an opportunity.
NO - multiplier is 1YES - multiplier is 2
Aerial photo or map showing polygons of different vegetation types
10
2
8
20TOTAL - Water Quality Functions
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 5 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
R 3.Points
R 3.1
Points = 9
Points = 6
Points = 4
Points = 2
Points = 1
Figure __
R 3.2
Points = 7
Points = 4
Points = 0
Figure __
9
R 4.
Other:Multiplier
2
Forest or shrub for >1/10 area OR herbaceous plants >1/3 area
HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS - Indicators that wetland functions to reduce flooding/stream erosion.
2
Does the wetland unit have the potential to reduce flooding/erosion? (see p. 54)
Characteristics of the overbank storage the unit provides:
If the ratio is more than 20
18
If the ratio is between 10 - 20
Add score to table on p. 1
YES - multiplier is 2 NO - multiplier is 1
Estimate the average width of the wetland unit perpendicular to the direction of the flow and the width of the
stream or river channel (distance between banks). Calculate the ratio: (average width of unit)/(average width of
stream between banks).
If the ratio is <1
Multiply the score from R 3. by R 4.TOTAL - Hydrologic Functions
There are natural resources downstream (e.g. salmon redds) that can be damaged by
flooding
Vegetation does not meet above criteria
If the ratio is 1 - <5
Note which of the following indicators of opportunity apply:
Does the wetland unit have the opportunity to reduce flooding/erosion?
(see p.57)
7
R Riverine and Freshwater Tidal Fringe Wetlands
If the ratio is 5 - <10
Aerial photo or map shoing polygons of different vegetation types
Aerial photo or map showing average widths
There are human structures and activities downstream (roads, buildings, bridges,
farms) that can be damaged by flooding
Total for R 3 Add the points in the boxes above
Characteristics of vegetation that slow down water velocities during floods:
Answer YES if the unit is in a location in the watershed where the flood storage, or reduction
in water velocity, helps protect downstream property and aquatic resources from flooding or
excessive and/or erosive flows.
Forest or shrub for >1/3 area OR herbaceous plants >2/3 area
Treat large woody debris as "forest or shrub". Choose points appropriate for the best
description (polygons need to have >90% cover at person height NOT Cowardin classes).
Answer NO if the major source of water to the wetland is controlled by a reservoir or the wetland is
tidal fringe along the sides of a dike.
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 6 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
H 1.Points
H 1.1
Points = 4
Points = 2
Points = 1
Points = 0
Figure __
H 1.2
Points = 3
Points = 2
Points = 1
Points = 0
Figure __
H 1.3
>19 species Points = 2
5-19 species Points = 1
<5 species Points = 0
3
1
Total for page
1
1
Forested (areas where trees have >30% cover)
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 sq. ft. (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 Milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple loosestrife,
Canadian Thistle.
Richness of Plant Species (see p. 75)
Saturated only
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods) present within the wetland. The water
regime has to cover more than 10% of the wetland if less than 2.5 acres in size or 1/4 acre to
count (see text for descriptions of hydroperiods).
If the unit has a forested class, check if:
Map of hydroperiods
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present
4 structures or more
3 structures
1 type present
Permanently flowing stream or river in, or adjacent to, the wetland
Seasonally flowing stream in, or adjacent to, the wetland
Map of Cowardin vegetation classes
Hydroperiods (see p. 73)
Does the wetland unit have the potential to provide habitat for many species?
2 types presentOccasionally flooded or inundated
Vegetation structure (see p. 72)
Add the number of vegetation types that qualify. If you have:
HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that wetland functions to provide important habitat.
Scrub/shrub (areas where shrubs have >30% cover)
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.
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes
Lake-fringe wetland = 2 points
Freshwater tidal wetland = 2 points
If you counted:
2 structures
1 structure
Check the types of vegetation classes present (as defined by Cowardin). Size threshold for
class is 1/4 acre or more than 10% of the area if unit is smaller than 2.5 acres.
Aquatic bed
Emergent plants
List species below if you want to:
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 7 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
H 1.4 Points
[riparian
braided
channels]
H 1.5
2
2
7
Standing snags (diameter at the bottom >4 inches) in the wetland.
Moderate = 2 points
Note: The 20% stated in early printings of the manual on page 78 is an error.
Comments:
At least 1/4 acre of thin-stemmed presistent vegetation or woody branches are present
in areas that are permanently or seasonally inundated (structures for egg-laying by
amphibians ).
None = 0 points Low = 1 point
Stable steep banks of fine material that might be used by beaver/muskrat for denning
(>30° slope) OR signs of recent beaver activity are present (cut shrubs or trees that
have not yet turned brown/gray ).
NOTE: If you have four or more vegetation types or three vegetation types and open water,
the rating is always "high". Use map of Cowardin classes
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.
Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (>4 inches in diameter and 6 feet
long).
Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in each stratum of plants.
H 1. TOTAL Score - potential for providing habitat
Add the scores from H1.1, H1.2, H1.3, H1.4, H1.5
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 feet (2 m) and/or overhanging vegetation
extends at least 3.3 feet (1 m) over a stream (or ditch) in or contiguous with the
wetland, for at least 33 feet (10 m).
High = 3 points
Special Habitat Features (see p. 77)
Interspersion of Habitats (see p. 76)
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion between Cowardin vegetation classes
(described in H 1.1) or the classes and unvegetated areas (can include open water or
mudflats) is high, medium, low, or none.
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 8 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
H 2.Points
H 2.1
Points = 5
Points = 4
Points = 4
Points = 3
Points = 3
Points = 2
Points = 2
Points = 1
Points = 0
Points = 1
Figure __
H 2.2
H 2.2.1
H 2.2.2
H 2.2.3
1
Aerial photo showing buffers
0
within 5 miles (8 km) of a brackish or salt water estuary OR
100 m (330 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas,
or open water >50% of circumference.
50 m (170 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or
open water >95% circumference.
100 m (330 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas,
or open water for >25% circumference.
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."
Does the wetland unit have the opportunity to provide habitat for many species?
Buffers (see p. 80)
Buffer does not meet any of the criteria above.
Corridors and Connections (see p. 81)
NO = go to H 2.2.2
Is the wetland part of a relatively undisturbed/unbroken vegetated corridor (riparian or upland)
at least 150 feet wide, has at least 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, and paved roads are
considered breaks in the corridor.)
NO = 0 pointsYES = 1 point
Total for page
Heavy grazing in buffer.
Vegetated buffers are <2 m wide (6.6 feet) for more than 95% of the
circumference (e.g., tilled fields, paving, basalt bedrock extend to edge
of wetland).
If buffer does not meet any of the criteria above:
50 m (170 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas, or
open water for >50% circumference.
No paved areas (except paved trails) or buildings within 25 m (80 feet)
of wetland >95% circumference. Light to moderate grazing, or lawns
are OK.
No paved areas or buildings within 50 m of wetland for >50%
circumference. Light to moderate grazing, or lawns are OK.
100 m (330 feet) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas, rocky areas,
or open water >95% of circumference. No structures are within
undisturbed part of buffer (relatively undisturbed also means no
grazing, no landscaping, no daily human use ).
YES = 4 points (go to H 2.3 )
Is the wetland:
within 3 miles of a large field or pasture > 40 acres in size OR
within 1 mile of a lake greater than 20 acres in size?
1
NO = go to H 2.2.3YES = 2 points (go to H 2.3 )
Is the wetland part of a relatively undisturbed/unbroken vegetated corridor (either riparian or
upland) at least 50 feet 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?
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 9 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
H 2.3 Points
3+ priority habitats = 4 points
2 priority habitats = 3 points
If wetland has:
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.
No habitats = 0 points
3
Note: all vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list.
Nearby wetlands are addressed in question H 2.4
Cliffs: Greater than 7.6 m (25 ft) high and occuring below 5,000 ft.
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 ).
Which of the following priority habitats are within 330 feet (100 m) of the wetland unit?
NOTE: the connections do not have to be relatively undisturbed. These are DFW definitions.
Check with your local DFW biologist if there are any questions
Near or Adjacent to Other Priority Habitats Listed by WDFW (see p. 82)
Oregon white Oak: Woodland stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where
canopy coverage of the oak component is 25% (full descrptions in WDFW PHS
report p. 158 ).
Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over
bedrock.
Riparian: The area adjacent to aquatic systems with flowing water that contains
elements of both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems which mutually influence each
Westside Prairies: Herbaceous, non-forested plant communities that can either take
the form of a dry prairie or a wet prairie (full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p.
161 ).
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 than 100%; decay, decadence, number of snags, and quantity of large
downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth; 80 - 200 years old
west of the Cascade crest.
Caves: 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.
Nearshore: Relatively undisturbed nearshore habitats. These include Coastal
Nearshore, Open Coastal Nearshore, and Puget Sound Nearshore. (full descriptions
of habitats and the definition of relatively undisturbed are in WDFW report pp. 167-
169 and glossary in Appendix A).
Aspen stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen >0.4 ha (1 acre).
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.
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.
1 priority habitat = 1 point
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 10 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
Points = 5
Points = 5
Points = 3
Points = 3
Points = 2
Points = 0
14Total Score for Habitat Functions - add the points for H1 and H2, and record the result on p. 1
The wetland is Lake-fringe on a lake with disturbance, and there are 3
other Lake-fringe wetlands within 1/2 mile.
There is at least 1 wetland within 1/2 mile.
Choose the one description of the landscape around the wetland that best fits.
H 2. TOTAL Score - opportunity for providing habitat
The wetland is Lake-fringe on a lake with little disturbance and there
are 3 other Lake-fringe wetlands within 1/2 mile.
There are at least 3 other wetlands within 1/2 mile, BUT the connections
between them are disturbed.
Add the scores from H2.1, H2.2, H2.3, H2.4 7
3
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).
There are no wetlands within 1/2 mile.
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 11 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
SC 1.0
SC 1.1
SC 1.2
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation,
grazing, and has <10% cover of non-native plant species. If the non-native Spartina
spp. are the only species that cover >10% of the wetland, then the wetland should be
given a dual rating (I/II). The area of Spartina would be rated a Category II while the
relatively undisturbed upper marsh with native species would be a Category I. Do not,
however, exclude the area of Spartina in determining the size threshold of 1 acre.
At least 3/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 foot buffer of shrub, forest,
or ungrazed or unmowed grassland.
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?
NO = Go to SC 1.2
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. Check the appropriate Category when the appropriate
criteria are met.
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Category
Is the wetland unit at least 1 acre in size and meeting at least two of the following three
conditions?
YES - Go to SC 1.1
YES = Category I NO = Category II
Please determine if the wetland meets the attributes described below and choose the appropriate answers and
Category.
Wetland Type
With a salinity greater than 0.5 ppt.
NO - not an estuarine wetland
Estuarine Wetlands (see p. 86)
Vegetated, and
YES = Category I
The wetland has at least two of the following features: tidal channels, depressions
with open water, or continguous freshwater wetlands.
Does the wetland unit meet the following criteria for Estuarine wetlands?
The dominant water regime is tidal,
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 12 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
SC 2.0 Category
SC 2.1
NO
SC 2.2
SC 3.0
1.
2.
3.
4.
NO - go to Q. 2YES - go to Q. 3
YES - go to Q. 3
Does the unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks, that are <16 inches deep over
bedrock, or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or volcanic ash, or that are floating
on a lake or pond?
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 the soil profile? (See
Appendix B for a field key to identify organic oils.)
Natural Heritage Wetlands (see p. 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.
Is the wetland unit 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
WNHP/DNR.)
S/T/R information from Appendix D or accessed from WNHP/DNR web site
YES - contact WNHP/DNR (see p. 79) and go to SC 3.2
YES = Category I
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 (>30% of total shrub and herbaceous cover consists of
species in Table 3)?
NO - not a Heritage wetland
Bogs ( see p. 87)
Does the wetland unit (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and vegetations
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.
Has DNR identified the wetland as a high quality undisturbed wetland or as a site with state
Threatened or Endangered plant species?
Is the unit forested (>30% cover) with sitka spruce, subalpine fir, western redcedar,
western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Englemann's spruce, or western
white pine, WITH any of the species (or combination of species) on bog species plant
list in Table 3 as a significant component of the ground cover (>30% coverage of
total shrub/herbaceous cover )?
NO - not a bog for purpose of rating
YES - is a bog for purpose of rating
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.
NO - go to Q. 4
YES = Category I
NO - not a bog for purpose of rating
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 13 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
SC 4.0 Category
SC 5.0
SC 5.1
NO - not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
Does the wetland meet all of the following 3 conditions?
Does the wetland unit have at least 1 acre of forest that meets one of these criteria for the
Department of Fish and Wildlife's forests as priority habitat? If you answer Yes, you will still
need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Old-growth forests: (west of Cascade Crest) Stands of at least 2 tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings; with at least 8
trees/acre (20/hectare) that are at least 200 years of age OR have a diameter at breast
height (dbh) of 32 inches (81 cm) or more.
NO - not a forested wetland w/ special characteristics
Forested Wetlands (see p. 90)
Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons (see p. 91)
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wtland in a coastal lagoon?
NOTE: The criterion for dbh is based on measurements for upland
forests. 200-year-old trees in wetlands will often have a smaller dbh
because their growth rates are often smaller. The DFW criterion is an
"OR" so old-growth forests do not necessarily have to have trees of this
diameter.
Mature forests: (west of the Cascade Crest) Stands where the largest trees are 80 -
200 years old OR have average diameters (dbh) exceeding 21 inches (53 cm); crown
cover may be less than 100%; decay, decadence, numbers of snags, and quantity of
large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth.
The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling, cultivation,
grazing), and has less than 20% cover of invasive plant species (see list of invasive
species on p. 74).
YES = go to SC 5.1
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 (>.5 ppt) during most of the year in at leat a portion of the lagoon (needs to
be measured near the bottom ).
At least 3/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 foot buffer of shrub, forest,
or ungrazed or unmowed grassland.
The wetland is larger than 1/10 acre (4,350 square feet).
YES = Category I
YES = Category I NO = Category II
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 14 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
SC 6.0 Category
SC 6.1
SC 6.2
Is the wetland unit west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)?
YES - go to SC 6.1 NO - not an interdunal wetland for rating
If you answered NO for all types, enter "Not Applicable" on p. 1.
Long Beach Peninsula - lands west of SR 103
Grayland-Westport - lands west of SR 105
In practical terms, that means the following geographic areas:
Interdunal Wetlands (see p. 93)
NA
YES = Category II NO - go to SC 6.2
Is the unit between 0.1 and 1 acre, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is between 0.1 and 1
acre?
YES = Category III
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
Choose the "highest" rating if wetland falls into several categories, and record on p. 1.
Ocean Shores-Copalis - lands west of SR 1115 and SR 109.
Is wetland 1 acre or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is 1 acre or larger?
If you answer Yes, you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
Wetland Rating Form - Western Washington 15 Herrera Environmental Consultants, Inc.
CedarRiverMadsen CreekWetland A
SE RENTON-MAPLE VALLEY RD (SR-169)Pictometry, King County
0 250 500125
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC1_CowardinWLA_letter.mxd
Figure C-1.Cowardin Class for Wetland A.ELegend
Wetland boundary
Road
Parcel
Stream / River
Cowardin class
Palustrine Emergent
Palustrine Forested
Palustrine Scrub-Shrub
King County, Aerial (2017)
Wetland D
Wetland E
Mad
s
e
n
C
r
e
e
k
149TH AVE SESE
R
E
N
T
O
N
-
M
A
P
L
E
V
A
L
L
E
Y
R
D
(
S
R
-
1
6
9
)
Pictometry, King County
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC2_CowardinPlantCoverWLDE_letter.mxd
Legend
Wetland boundary
Road
Stream
Parcel
Type
Trees and Shrub >1/3 area
Trees and Shrub >2/3 area
Cowardin class
Palustrine Forested
Palustrine Scrub-Shrub King County, Aerial (2017)
0 50 10025
Feet
Figure C-2.Cowardin Class and Plant Cover of Trees, Shrubs, and Herbaceous Plants for Wetlands D and E.
E
Wetland E has a palustrine forested community with trees and shrub >2/3 area.
Wetland F
Madsen Cree
k
OAK DRSERENTON-MAPLEVALLEYRD(SR-169)
Pictometry, King County
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC3_CowardinPlantCoverWLF_letter.mxd
Legend
Wetland boundary
Road
Stream
Parcel
Cowardin class
Palustrine Emergent
Palustrine Scrub-Shrub
Plant cover
Herbaceous plants (> 6 in high) > 2/3 area King County, Aerial (2017)
0 20 4010
Feet
Figure C-3.Cowardin Class and Plant Cover of Trees, Shrubs, and Herbaceous Plants for Wetland F.
E
Wetland H
Wetland G
M
adsen
Creek
SE RENTON-
M
A
P
L
E
V
A
L
L
E
Y
R
D
(
S
R
-
1
6
9
)150TH LN SEK:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC4_CowardinPlantCoverWLGH_letter.mxd
Legend
Wetland boundary
Road
Stream
Parcel
Plant cover
Trees and shrub >1/3 area
Cowardin class
Palustrine Forested
King County, Aerial (2018)
0 30 6015
Feet
Figure C-4.Cowardin Class and Plant Cover of Trees, Shrubs, and Herbaceous Plants for Wetlands G and H.
E
Note: Wetland G has little plant cover.
Madsen CreekMadsen Creek High Flow ChannelWetland I
Pictometry, King County
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC5_CowardinPlantCoverWLI_letter.mxd
Legend
Wetland boundary
Road
Stream
150-foot boundary
Plant cover
Trees and shrubs >2/3 area
Cowardin class
Palustrine Scrub-Shrub
King County, Aerial (2017)
0 80 16040
Feet
Figure C-5.Cowardin Class and Plant Cover of Trees, Shrubs, and Herbaceous Plants for Wetland I.
E
#*
#*
Wetland B
Wetland C Madsen CreekMadsen Creek High Flow ChannelPictometry, King County
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC6_CowardinHydroperiodWLBC_letter.mxd
Legend
Wetland boundary
Road
Stream
#*Outlet
150-foot boundary
Hydroperiod
Saturated only
Seasonally flooded
Cowardin class
Palustrine Forested
Palustrine Scrub-Shrub King County, Aerial (2017)
0 100 20050
Feet
Figure C-6.Cowardin Class, Hydroperiod, 150-Foot Boundary, and Location of Outlet for Wetlands B and C.
E
Wetland A
150ft Madsen CreekCedarRi
verSERENTON-MAPLEVALLEYRD(SR-169)SE 153RD PLSEJONESPL149TH AVE S
E
Pictometry, King County
0 250 500125
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC7_Hydroperiod_150ftBdryWLA_letter.mxd
Figure C-7.Hydroperiod, 150-Foot Boundary, and Location of Outlet for Wetland A.EKing County, Aerial (2017)
Note: Wetland A outlets to the Cedar River alongits boundary.
Legend
Wetland boundary
Road
Parcel
150-foot boundary
Hydroperiod
Permanently flooded
Seasonally flooded
Occasionally flooded
Saturated only
Madsen CreekWetland D
Wetland E
SE RENTON-MAPLE VALLEY RD (SR-169)149TH AVE S
E
Pictometry, King County
0 120 24060
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC8_Hydroperiod_150ftBdryWLDE_letter.mxd
Figure C-8.Hydroperiod, 150-Foot Boundary, Ponded Depressions, and Wetland to Stream Width Ratio for Wetlands D and E.ELegend
Wetland boundary
Road
Parcel
Stream
150-foot boundary
Hydroperiod
Permanently flowing stream
Saturated only
King County, Aerial (2017)
Note: Ponded depressions cover <1/2 area of Wetland E. No ponded depressions in Wetland D.
Average width of wetland / average width of stream:Wetland D = 2Wetland E = 2
Wetland E
Wetland F
Madsen Creek High Flow ChannelMadsen CreekSE RENTON-MAPLE VALLEY RD (SR-169)Pictometry, King County
0 60 12030
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC9_Hydroperiod_150ftBdryWLF_letter.mxd
Figure C-9.Hydroperiod, 150-Foot Boundary, Ponded Depressions, and Wetland to Stream Width Ratio for Wetland F.ELegend
Wetland boundary
Wetland area
Road
Parcel
Stream
150-foot boundary
Hydroperiod
Saturated only
King County, Aerial (2017)
No ponded depressions in wetland F.
Average width of wetland / average width of stream:Wetland F = 0.5
Wetland G
Wetland HMadsen Creek High Flow ChannelMadse
n
C
r
e
e
k
S
E
R
E
N
T
O
N
-
M
A
P
L
E
V
A
L
L
E
Y
R
D
(
S
R
-
1
6
9
)
Pictometry, King County
0 60 12030
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC10_Hydroperiod_150ftBdryWLGH_letter.mxd
Figure C-10.Hydroperiod, 150-Foot Boundary, Ponded Depressions, and Wetland to Stream Width Ratio for Wetlands G and H.
E
Legend
Wetland boundary
Road
Parcel
Stream
150-foot boundary
Hydroperiod
Saturated only
King County, Aerial (2017)
No ponded depressions in Wetlands G or H.
Average width of wetland / average width of stream:Wetland G = 1.3Wetland H = 1.5
Wetland I
Wetland C
Wetland B Madsen CreekMadsenCreekHighFlowChannelWetland I
Pictometry, King County
0 80 16040
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC11_Hydroperiod_150ftBdryWLI_letter.mxd
Figure C-11.Hydroperiod, 150-Foot Boundary, Ponded Depressions, and Wetland to Stream Width Ratio for Wetland I.
E
Legend
Wetland boundary
Wetland area
Road
Parcel
150-foot boundary
Hydroperiod
Permanently flowing stream
Saturated only
King County, Aerial (2017)
No ponded depressions in Wetland I.
Average width of wetland / average width of stream:Wetland I = 1.2
Wetland A
Cedar River
Snoqualmie River
GreenRiver
King County, Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User
Community
0 5 102.5
Miles
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC12_ContributingBasinWLA_letter.mxd
Figure C-12.Map of Contributing Basin for Wetland A.
E
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Wetland area
Wetland A contributing basin
Waterbody
Contour (ft)
Wetland C
Wetland B
Pictometry, King County, King County
0 100 20050
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC13_ContributingBasinWLBC_letter.mxd
Figure C-13.Map of Contributing Basin for Wetlands Band C.
E
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Wetland boundary
Contributing basin
Wetland B
Wetland C
Stream
Contour (ft)
Wetland area
M a d s enCreek
M
a
d
s
e
n
Creek
Molasse s Cre
e
k
C e d a r R i v er
Wetland A
Pictometry, King County
0 1,200 2,400600
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC14_Habitat1KM_WLA_letter.mxd
Figure C-14.Habitat Within a 1-km Boundary of Wetland A.
E
Legend
Wetland area
Wetland boundary
Stream
1-km boundary
Habitat typesRelatively undisturbed habitatRelatively undisturbed and accessible habitatModerate/Low Intensity Land UseModerate/Low Intensity and accessible habitat King County, Aerial (2017)
Wetland D Wetland E
M o lassesCreek
Madsen Creek
CedarRiverPictometry, King County
0 1,200 2,400600
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC15_Habitat1KM_WLDE_letter.mxd
Figure C-15.Habitat Within a 1-km Boundary of Wetlands D and E.ELegend
Wetland boundary
Stream
1-km boundary
Habitat typesRelatively undisturbed habitatRelatively undisturbed and accessible habitatModerate/Low Intensity Land UseModerate/Low Intensity and accessible habitat King County, Aerial (2017)
Wetland F Wetland H
Wetland G
M
o
l
assesCreekM a d s e n C reekM
adse
n
Cree
k
C e d a r River
Pictometry, King County
0 1,000 2,000500
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC16_Habitat1KM_WLFGH_letter.mxd
Figure C-16.Habitat Within a 1-km Boundary of Wetlands F, G, and H.
E
Legend
Wetland boundary
Stream
1-km boundary
Habitat typesRelatively undisturbed habitatRelatively undisturbed and accessible habitatModerate/Low Intensity Land UseModerate/Low Intensity and accessible habitat King County, Aerial (2017)
Wetland I
Wetland C
Wetland B
C e d a r River
Ma d s en C r e e k
Pictometry, King County
0 1,000 2,000500
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC17_Habitat1KM_WLBCI_letter.mxd
Figure C-17.Habitat Within a 1-km Boundary of Wetlands B, C, and I.
E
Legend
Wetland boundary
Stream
1-km boundary
Habitat typesRelatively undisturbed habitatRelatively undisturbed and accessible habitatModerate/Low Intensity Land UseModerate/Low Intensity and accessible habitat King County, Aerial (2017)
Wetland I
Wetlands D and E
Wetlands F, G, and H Cedar River
King County, Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics,
CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User
Community
0 2,000 4,0001,000
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC18_ContributingBasinWLDEFGHI_letter.mxd
Figure C-18.Map of Contributing Basin for Wetlands D,E, F, G, H, and I.
E
King County, Aerial (2017)
Legend
Wetland boundary
Waterbody
Contour (ft)
Contributing basin
Wetlands B, C, and I
Wetland A
Wetlands F, G, and H
Wetlands D and E
MolassesC
reek
Ma d s e n C reekC eda r River
Pictometry, King County
0 2,000 4,0001,000
Feet
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC19_303dWaters_letter.mxd
Figure C-19.303(d) Waters in the Vicinity of WetlandsA, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, and I.
E
Legend
Wetland area
Wetland boundary
Stream
303(d) listed waters (Dept. of Ecology)
King County, Aerial (2017)
WRIA 8
0 1.5 30.75
Miles
K:\Projects\Y2018\18-06779-000\Project\Report\RatingFigures\FigC20_TMDL_WRIA8_letter.mxd
Figure C-20.TMDL for WRIA 8 Cedar Sammamish.
E
Source: WA Department of Ecology (2018)
Legend
Study area
Approved
In Development
TMDLs
APPENDIX D
Wetland Delineation Data Forms
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-A-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
90
5
5
15
10
10
0
0
0
0
0
0
5
Yes No
P. annua representative of lawn grasses that are presumed FAC
10.0%
0.0%
10.0%
0.0%
100.0%0
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%0 0
0.0%0 0
0.0%110 330
25 1000
0 0
66.7%FAC 135 4303.7%FAC
3.1853.7%FAC
11.1%FACU
7.4%FACU
7.4%FAC
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
135
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
13-Jun-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N22Shelby Petro, Anna Hoenig
top of berm convex
NAD 1983 H-122.145047.4682LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Poa annua
Ranunculus repens
Plantago major
Taraxacum officinale
Cerastium fontanum
Trifolium repens
(Plot size: 3m
(Plot size:2m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-A-UPLSoilSampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-15 10YR 3/4 100 Loamy Sand
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-A-WET
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
0
0
0
0
15
5
0
0
0
40
60
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
25
Yes No
bare ground consists of dead material from reed canarygrass and Himalayan blackberry stalks
40.0%
0.0%
40.0%
0.0%
100.0%0
75.0%FAC
25.0%FACW
0.0%0 0
0.0%105 210
0.0%15 45
0 020
0 0
40.0%FACW 120 25560.0%FACW
2.1250.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
100
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
13-Jun-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N22Shelby Petro, Anna Hoenig
depression concave
NAD 1983 H -122.1451 47.4684LRR A
Puyallup fine sandy loam None
Rubus armeniacus
Salix sitchensis
Phalaris arundinacea
Impatiens glandulifera
(Plot size: 3m
(Plot size:2m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-A-WET
soil damp but not saturated
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-5
5-20
5-20
10YR
10YR
3/2
4/1
98
80
10YR
7.5YR
10YR 4/6
3/4
4/6 2
5
15 C
C
C M
M
M Loamy Sand
Loamy Sand
Loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-B-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
50
0
0
0
60
5
30
5
0
10
5
10
30
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
3100.0%FAC
0.0%
40.0%
0.0%
75.0%50
60.0%FAC
5.0%FACU
30.0%FACU 0 0
5.0%FAC 2 4
0.0%156 468
50 200100
0 0
17.2%FAC 208 6728.6%FACU
3.23117.2%FACU
51.7%FAC
1.7%FACW
1.7%FAC
1.7%FACW
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
58
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
15-Jun-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Shelby Petro, Anna Hoenig
Berm none
NAD 1983 H -122.1409 47.4629LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Alnus rubra
Rubus spectabilis
Oemleria cerasiformis
Rubus parviflorus
Rubus armeniacus
Urtica dioica
Polystichum munitum
Dicentra formosa
Tolmiea menziesii
Impatiens glandulifera
Rumex crispus
Phalaris arundinacea
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
Located on artificial berm between wetland and stream. Does not meet any soil indicators.
TP-B-UPL
dry
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%
gravel
1
0-4
4-14
14-18
10YR
7.5YR
10YR
3/2
3/2
4/2
100
98
93
7.5YR
7.5YR 3/4
3/4 2
7 C
C M
M Sandy Loam
Sandy Loam
Loamy Sand
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-B-WET
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
20
0
0
0
5
5
5
7
0
30
50
10
10
5
70
5
5
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
6100.0%FACW
0.0%
70.0%
0.0%
85.7%20
22.7%FACW
22.7%FAC
22.7%FACU 75 75
31.8%FAC 85 170
0.0%62 186
5 2022
0 0
16.2%FAC 227 45127.0%FACW
1.9875.4%FAC
5.4%FAC
2.7%OBL
37.8%OBL
2.7%FACW
2.7%FACW
0.0%
0.0%
185
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
Wetland B. Surrounded by berms. Outlets to Madsen Creek.
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
15-Jun-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Shelby Petro, Anna Hoenig
depression concave
NAD 1983 H -122.1409 47.4628LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Salix lasiandra
Salix lasiandra
Alnus rubra
Sambucus racemosa
Rubus spectabilis
Athyrium cyclosorum
Glyceria elata
Solanum dulcamara
Ranunculus repens
Veronica americana
Oenanthe sarmentosa
Phalaris arundinacea
Impatiens glandulifera
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-B-WET
1
0
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-12
12-20
5Y
5Y
5/1
5/1
80
80
7.5YR
7.5YR 4/6
4/4 20
20 C
C M
M Sandy Loam
Loamy Sand
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-C-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
70
0
0
0
80
10
0
0
0
5
15
7
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
3100.0%FACU
0.0%
40.0%
0.0%
75.0%70
88.9%FAC
11.1%FAC
0.0%0 0
0.0%5 10
0.0%112 336
70 28090
5 25
15.6%FACW 192 65146.9%FAC
3.39121.9%FAC
15.6%UPL
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
32
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
15-Jun-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Shelby Petro, Anna Hoenig
Berm convex
NAD 1983 H -122.1414 47.4628LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Acer macrophyllum
Rubus spectabilis
Rubus armeniacus
Phalaris arundinacea
Tolmiea menziesii
Ranunculus repens
Convolvulus arvensis
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-C-UPLSoilSampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
fill
10
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%
fill rocks
1
0-10 10YR 3/4 100 Loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-C-WET
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
90
10
0
0
30
0
0
0
0
60
20
7
5
30
15
10
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
490.0%FAC
10.0%FACW
40.0%
0.0%
100.0%100
100.0%FAC
0.0%
0.0%105 105
0.0%40 80
0.0%132 396
0 030
0 0
40.8%OBL 277 58113.6%FACW
2.0974.8%FAC
3.4%FAC
20.4%OBL
10.2%OBL
6.8%FACW
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
147
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
Wetland C
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
15-Jun-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Shelby Petro, Anna Hoenig
depression concave
NAD 1983 H -122.1414 47.4627LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Alnus rubra
Salix lasiandra
Rubus spectabilis
Lysichiton americanum
Equisetum telmateia
Tolmiea menziesii
Athyrium cyclosorum
Scirpus microcarpus
Oenanthe sarmentosa
Phalaris arundinacea
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-C-WET
1
0
0
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-10
10-14
10YR
5Y
2/1
4/1
100
85 7.5YR 4/6 15 C M Sandy Loam
Sandy Clay Loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-D-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
50
90
50
0
40
100
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
226.3%FAC
47.4%UPL
526.3%FAC
0.0%
40.0%190
28.6%FACU
71.4%FACU
0.0%0 0
0.0%0 0
0.0%100 300
140 560140
90 450
0.0%330 13100.0%
3.9700.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
26-Jun-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N22Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear
depression concave
NAD 1983 H -122.1431 47.4666LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Alnus rubra
Sorbus aucuparia
Betula papyrifera
Symphoricarpos albus
Reynoutria X bohemica
(Plot size: 3m
(Plot size:2m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-D-UPLSoilSampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-18 10YR 3/2 100 Loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-D-WET
1.0 0.6
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
20
0
0
0
40
30
0
0
0
30
5
5
1
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
3100.0%FACU
0.0%
40.0%
0.0%
75.0%20
57.1%FAC
42.9%FAC
0.0%35 35
0.0%0 0
0.0%78 234
20 8070
0 0
69.8%OBL 133 34911.6%OBL
2.62411.6%FAC
2.3%FAC
4.7%FAC
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
43
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
Wetland D
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
26-Jun-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N22Anna Hoenig, Eliza Spear
Terrace none
NAD 1983 H -122.1432 47.4666LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Acer platanoides
Salix scoulerana
Rubus armeniacus
Lysichiton americanum
Veronica americana
Poa palustris
Cardamine oligosperma
Ranunculus repens
(Plot size: 3m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-D-WET
11
6
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-5
5-11
5-11
11-20
10YR
5Y
N
3/1
4/1
3/
90
80
90
7/5YR
7.5YR
7.5YR
10YR 5/6
4/4
4/6
5/8 10
10
10
10 C
C
C
C M
M
M
M Silty loam
Silty Clay Loam
Silty Clay Loam
Silty Clay Loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-E-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
60
20
0
0
15
30
10
5
0
20
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
475.0%FAC
25.0%UPL
50.0%
0.0%
80.0%80
25.0%FAC
50.0%FAC
16.7%FACW 0 0
8.3%FACW 35 70
0.0%105 315
0 060
20 100
100.0%FACW 160 4850.0%
3.0310.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
20
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
12-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
Terrace none
NAD 1983 H -122.1423 47.4663LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Populus balsamifera
Prunus laurocerasus
Rosa nutkana
Rubus armeniacus
Fraxinus latifolia
Salix lasiandra
Equisetum hyemale
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
landscaping cloth 1" depth
TP-E-UPLSoilSampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%
gravel, cobble
1
0-16 10YR 3/2 100 Loamy Sand
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-E-WET
5.0 2.9
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
60
15
0
0
15
15
30
15
0
3
3
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
80
Yes No
980.0%FACW
20.0%FACW
90.0%
0.0%
100.0%75
20.0%FAC
20.0%FACW
40.0%FACW 0 0
20.0%FACW 141 282
0.0%20 60
0 075
0 0
27.3%FACW 161 34227.3%FACW
2.12445.5%FAC
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
11
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
Concrete block in soil pit @ 15" depth; cobble at 18" depth; Ecology block 2 ft upslope of test pit
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
12-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
Terrace none
NAD 1983 H -122.1422 47.4663LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Salix lasiandra
Fraxinus latifolia
Rubus armeniacus
Salix sitchensis
Salix lasiandra
Cornus alba
Equisetum telmateia
Equisetum hyemale
Poa palustris
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-E-WET
10
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
cobble
18"
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-1
1-18
7.5YR
10YR
3/1
3/1
97
75
7.5YR
7.5YR 4/6
5/4 3
25 C
C M
M Clay Loam
Clay Loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-F-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
0
0
0
0
10
25
0
0
0
15
5
60
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
Poa pratensis used to represent common lawn grasses, which are presumed to be FAC.
20.0%
0.0%
30.0%
0.0%
66.7%0
28.6%FAC
71.4%FACU
0.0%0 0
0.0%0 0
0.0%70 210
45 18035
0 0
18.8%FACU 115 3906.3%FACU
3.39175.0%FAC
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
80
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
12-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
roadside slope none
NAD 1983 H -122.1420 47.4658LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Rubus armeniacus
Symphoricarpos albus
Hypericum perforatum
Hypochaeris radicata
Poa pratensis
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size:
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
dry
TP-F-UPLSoilSampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-16 7.5YR 3/2 100 Loamy Sand
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-F-WET
5.0 2.9
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
0
0
0
0
60
5
5
0
0
100
50
40
5
7
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
30.0%
0.0%
30.0%
0.0%
100.0%0
85.7%FAC
7.1%FACW
7.1%FACW 45 45
0.0%160 320
0.0%67 201
0 070
0 0
49.5%FACW 272 56624.8%FACW
2.08119.8%OBL
2.5%OBL
3.5%FAC
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
202
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
12-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
Terrace none
NAD 1983 H -122.1420 47.4658LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Alnus rubra
Salix lasiandra
Salix sitchensis
Phalaris arundinacea
Juncus effusus
Scirpus microcarpus
Veronica americana
Poa pratensis
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-F-WET
15
7
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-3
3-9
9-12
12-19
10YR
10YR
10YR
10YR
3/1
3/1
2/1
3/1
95
80
95
85
7.5YR
5YR
5YR
5YR 4/6
4/6
5/8
5/8 5
20
5
15 C
C
C
C M
M
M
M Loamy Sand
Loamy Sand
Loamy Sand
Loamy Sand
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-G-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
65
0
0
0
60
40
10
0
0
5
65
5
5
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
Plots ends at stream
4100.0%FACW
0.0%
40.0%
0.0%
100.0%65
54.5%FAC
36.4%FACW
9.1%FACU 0 0
0.0%110 220
0.0%130 390
20 80110
0 0
5.9%FACU 260 69076.5%FAC
2.6545.9%FACW
5.9%FACU
5.9%FAC
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
85
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
13-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
Terrace none
NAD 1983 H -122.1408 47.4655LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Salix sitchensis
Rubus armeniacus
Cornus alba
Symphoricarpos albus
Hedera helix
Poa palustris
Equisetum telmateia
Lapsana communis
Ranunculus repens
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-G-UPLSoilSampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-20 10YR 2/2 100 silty loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-G-WET
50.0 26.6
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
50
50
0
0
25
0
0
0
0
100
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
plots end at stream edge
450.0%FACW
50.0%FACW
40.0%
0.0%
100.0%100
100.0%FAC
0.0%
0.0%0 0
0.0%100 200
0.0%126 378
0 025
0 0
99.0%FAC 226 5781.0%FAC
2.5580.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
101
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
13-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
slope none
NAD 1983 H -122.1408 47.4655LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Salix lasiandra
Fraxinus latifolia
Rubus armeniacus
Poa palustris
Plantago major
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-G-WET
12
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-10
10-20
10YR
2.5YR
3/2
2.5/1
100
85 5YR 5/8 15 C M Clay Loam
Clay Loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-H-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
80
0
0
0
10
30
15
5
0
20
5
2
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
plots end at stream edge
3100.0%FACW
0.0%
40.0%
0.0%
75.0%80
16.7%FACU
50.0%FACW
25.0%FACU 0 0
8.3%FACU 115 230
0.0%25 75
32 12860
0 0
62.5%FAC 172 43315.6%FACW
2.5176.3%FACU
15.6%FAC
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
32
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
13-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
Terrace none
NAD 1983 H -122.1401 47.4654LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Fraxinus latifolia
Mahonia nervosa
Cornus alba
Symphoricarpos albus
Mahonia aquifolium
Poa palustris
Equisetum telmateia
Lapsana communis
Ranunculus repens
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-H-UPLSoilSampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-20 10YR 3/2 100 silty loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-H-WET
3.0 1.7
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
50
0
0
0
100
0
0
0
0
30
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
65
Yes No
plots end at stream edge
3100.0%FACW
0.0%
30.0%
0.0%
100.0%50
100.0%FACW
0.0%
0.0%0 0
0.0%180 360
0.0%5 15
0 0100
0 0
85.7%FACW 185 37514.3%FAC
2.0270.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
35
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
build up of sediment on stream bank
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
13-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
Terrace concave
NAD 1983 H -122.1401 47.4654LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Salix lasiandra
Cornus alba
Equisetum telmateia
Poa palustris
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-H-WET
6
4
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%
mixed matrix
mixed matrix
1
0-2
2-15
15-20
15-20
10YR
2.5YR
10YR
10YR
3/2
3/1
4/1
2/1
100
75
37
60
7.5YR
10YR 5/8
4/6 25
3 C
C M
M
sand
Sand
Loamy Sand
Loamy Sand
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-I-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
60
25
0
0
25
5
5
0
0
5
5
5
5
15
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
670.6%FACU
29.4%FAC
80.0%
0.0%
75.0%85
71.4%FAC
14.3%FACU
14.3%FACU 0 0
0.0%5 10
0.0%75 225
76 30435
0 0
13.9%FAC 156 53913.9%FACW
3.45513.9%FAC
13.9%FACU
41.7%FAC
2.8%FACU
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
36
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
13-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
Top of berm none
NAD 1983 H -122.1412 47.4629LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Acer macrophyllum
Alnus rubra
Rubus spectabilis
Rubus laciniatus
Oemleria cerasiformis
Athyrium cyclosorum
Equisetum telmateia
Tolmiea menziesii
Reynoutria japonica
Urtica dioica
Geranium robertianum
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-I-UPLSoilSampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%
gravel, cobble
gravel, cobble
1
0-4
4-20
7.5YR
10YR
2.5/2
3/2
100
100 Loamy Sand
Sandy Loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-I-WET
7.0 4.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
0
0
0
0
80
10
20
0
0
10
30
5
40
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
5
Yes No
30.0%
0.0%
30.0%
0.0%
100.0%0
72.7%FAC
9.1%FAC
18.2%FAC 0 0
0.0%15 30
0.0%180 540
0 0110
0 0
11.8%FACW 195 57035.3%FAC
2.9235.9%FACW
47.1%FAC
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
85
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
13-Jul-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Eliza Spear, Anna Hoenig
Terrace none
NAD 1983 H -122.1412 47.4629LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Rubus spectabilis
Rubus armeniacus
Ribes bracteosum
Equisetum telmateia
Ranunculus repens
Impatiens glandulifera
Athyrium cyclosorum
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-I-WET
15
Soil Sampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-9
9-20
7.5YR
5YR
3/2
4/1
70
80
2.5YR
10YR
7.5YR 5/8
6/3
4/8 15
15
20 C
D
C M, PL
M
M Loamy Sand
Clay Loam
Clay Loam
2 -
3 -
4 -
5 - Wetland Non-Vascular Plants
Indicators of hydric soil and wetland hydrology must
be present, unless disturbed or problematic.
Hydrophytic Vegetation Indicators:
Dominance Test is > 50%
Prevalence Index is ≤3.0 1
1
1
Morphological Adaptations (Provide supporting
data in Remarks or on a separate sheet)
Problematic Hydrophytic Vegetation (Explain)
1
1
1 - Rapid Test for Hydrophytic Vegetation
TP-Z-UPL
0.0 0.0
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
10
0
0
0
5
0
0
0
0
100
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Yes No
3100.0%FAC
0.0%
30.0%
0.0%
100.0%10
100.0%FAC
0.0%
0.0%0 0
0.0%100 200
0.0%15 45
0 05
0 0
100.0%FACW 115 2450.0%
2.1300.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
100
0.0%
0.0%
0
, or Hydrology
Prevalence Index = B/A =
1.
2.
3.
4.
(A/B)
Project/Site:
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Applicant/Owner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sampling Date:
Lat.: Long.:
Sampling Point:
Investigator(s):
= Total Cover
% Bare Ground in Herb Stratum:
Landform (hillslope, terrace, etc.):
T
Number of Dominant Species
That are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
1.
2.
Remarks:
OBL species
FACW species
FAC species
FACU species
UPL species
Column Totals:
x 1 =
x 2 =
x 3 =
x 4 =
x 5 =
(A)
(A)
Are Vegetation
(B)
Are "Normal Circumstances" present?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Soil Map Unit Name:
Datum:
Are climatic/hydrologic conditions on the site typical for this time of year?
Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?
NWI classification:
Remarks:
Tree Stratum
Sapling/Shrub Stratum
*Indicator suffix = National status or professional decision assigned because Regional status not defined by FWS.
R
Absolute
% Cover
Are Vegetation
Section, Township, Range: S
significantly disturbed?
Is the Sampled Area
within a Wetland?
Local relief (concave, convex, none):
naturally problematic?
Slope:
(If needed, explain any answers in Remarks.)
, Soil
Summary of Findings - Attach site map showing sampling point locations, transects, important features, etc.
% /
, Soil
Hydric Soil Present?
Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Woody Vine Stratum
(B)
Herb Stratum
= Total Cover
Subregion (LRR):
Indicator
Status
°
= Total Cover
= Total Cover
Hydrophytic
Vegetation
Present?
US Army Corps of Engineers
(If no, explain in Remarks.)
Dominance Test worksheet:
City/County:
Percent of dominant Species
That Are OBL, FACW, or FAC:
Total Number of Dominant
Species Across All Strata:
Prevalence Index worksheet:
State:
Total % Cover of: Multiply by:
, or Hydrology
Dominant
Species?
Rel.Strat.
Cover
reed canarygrass field between Madsen Creek and church parking lot
0 0.0%
WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORM - Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region
15-Jun-18Madsen Creek Renton
City of Renton WA
0523N23Shelby Petro, Anna Hoenig
Swale concave
LRR A
Newberg silt loam None
Populus balsamifera
Rubus armeniacus
Phalaris arundinacea
(Plot size: 3 m
(Plot size:2 m
(Plot size:1 m
(Plot size: 1 m
)
)
)
)
VEGETATION -Use scientific names of plants.
TP-Z-UPLSoilSampling Point:
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Type: C=Concentration. D=Depletion. RM=Reduced Matrix, CS=Covered or Coated Sand Grains ²Location: PL=Pore Lining. M=Matrix
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No Yes No
Hydric Soil Indicators: (Applicable to all LRRs, unless otherwise noted.) Indicators for Problematic Hydric Soils :
Restrictive Layer (if present):
Hydric Soil Present?
Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation and
wetland hydrology must be present,
unless disturbed or problematic.
Histosol (A1)
Histic Epipedon (A2)
Black Histic (A3)
Hydrogen Sulfide (A4)
Depleted Below Dark Surface (A11)
Thick Dark Surface (A12)
Sandy Muck Mineral (S1)
Sandy Redox (S5)
Stripped Matrix (S6)
Loamy Mucky Mineral (F1) (except in MLRA 1)
Loamy Gleyed Matrix (F2)
Depleted Matrix (F3)
Redox Dark Surface (F6)
Depleted Dark Surface (F7)
Redox depressions (F8)
2 cm Muck (A10)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Type:
Depth (inches):
Hydrology
Remarks:
Surface Water (A1)
High Water Table (A2)
Saturation (A3)
Water Marks (B1)
Sediment Deposits (B2)
Drift deposits (B3)
Algal Mat or Crust (B4)
Iron Deposits (B5)
Inundation Visible on Aerial Imagery (B7)
Salt Crust (B11)
Dry Season Water Table (C2)Aquatic Invertebrates (B13)
Hydrogen Sulfide Odor (C1)
Oxidized Rhizospheres on Living Roots (C3)
Presence of Reduced Iron (C4)
Recent Iron Reduction in Tilled Soils (C6)
Other (Explain in Remarks)
Surface Soil Cracks (B6)
Sparsely Vegetated Concave Surface (B8)
Drainage Patterns (B10)
Frost Heave Hummocks (D7)
Stunted or Stressed Plants (D1) (LRR A)
Saturation Visible on Aerial Imagery (C9)
Geomorphic Position (D2)
FAC-neutral Test (D5)
Primary Indicators (minimum of one required; check all that apply)
Wetland Hydrology Indicators:
Field Observations:
Surface Water Present?
Water Table Present?
Saturation Present?
(includes capillary fringe)
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Depth (inches):
Wetland Hydrology Present?
Describe Recorded Data (stream gauge, monitor well, aerial photos, previous inspections), if available:
Remarks:
US Army Corps of Engineers Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast - Version 2.0
Secondary Indicators (minimum of two required)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (except MLRA
1, 2, 4A, and 4B)
Sandy Gleyed Matrix (S4)
Red Parent Material (TF2)
Water-Stained Leaves (B9) (MLRA 1, 2,
4A, and 4B)
Shallow Aquitard (D3)
Raised Ant Mounds (D6) (LRR A)
3
3
1
Profile Description: (Describe to the depth needed to document the indicator or confirm the absence of indicators.)
Depth
(inches) Color (moist) Color (moist)
Matrix Redox Features
%Loc²Texture RemarksType%1
0-10
0-10
10-20
10-20
10YR
10YR
10YR
10YR
3/2
4/3
3/2
4/3
50
50
37
60 7.5YR 5/8 3 C M Loamy Sand
Loamy Sand
Sandy Loam
Sandy Loam
APPENDIX E
Stream Habitat Assessment Results
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton E-1
Table E-1. Stream Habitat Conditions in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
Site
Channel
Type
Bankfull Dimensions
Channel
Gradient
Substrate Type Substrate Condition
Physical
Habitat
Complexity
Functional
LWD
Bank
Stability
Floodplain
Connectivity
Vegetation
Condition
(Type, Tree
Size, Stand
Density)
Riparian
Buffer
Width Fish Cover Human Influences BFW BFD Primary Secondary Embeddedness Cementation
A.1 Step pool 15 feet 1.5 feet 4 to 8% Cobble Gravel N/A N/A Good At Risk Armored/
Revetment Low
Mixed,
Large,
Dense
Wide
(600 feet)
Boulders,
overhanging
vegetation
Installed log weirs, pipe
B.1 Impounded 60 feet >5 feet <1% Sand Sand N/A N/A Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Slightly
Unstable Low
Deciduous,
Small,
Sparse
Wide
(60 feet) Macrophyte Weir, culverts, flow control
structure
C.1 Pool/Riffle 5.7 feet 0.5 foot 1 to 2% Gravel Cobble 0 to 25% Good Fair At Risk Slightly
Unstable Medium
Mixed,
Large,
Dense
Wide
(90 feet)
Brush, overhanging
vegetation, undercut
banks
Trash
C.2 Pool/Riffle 13.5 feet 0.5 foot 1 to 2% Gravel Sand 25 to 50% Fair Fair Not Properly
Functioning
Moderately
Unstable Medium
Mixed,
Small,
Dense
Wide
(70 feet)
Brush, overhanging
vegetation, undercut
bank
Clearing/park, paved road
C.3 Pool/Riffle 8 feet 1.2 foot <1% Gravel Sand 50 to 75% Good Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Moderately
Unstable Medium
Mixed,
Small,
Dense
Wide
(70 feet)
Brush, overhanging
vegetation, LWD,
live tree/root wad,
undercut bank
Bridge, clearing/park,
paved road
C.4 Dune/Ripple 6.5 feet 1 foot <1% Sand Sand N/A N/A Good At Risk Moderately
Unstable Medium
Mixed,
Small,
Dense
Medium
Brush, overhanging
vegetation, LWD,
live tree/root wad,
undercut bank
Bridge, clearing/park,
paved road, culvert
D.1 Glide 6 feet 2 feet 1 to 2% Sand Fines N/A N/A Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Moderately
Unstable Low
Coniferous,
Small,
Sparse
Narrow
Macrophyte,
overhanging
vegetation, undercut
bank, culvert
Culverts, trash, paved road,
clearing/house
D.2 Glide 10 feet 2.5 feet <1% Sand Fines N/A N/A Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Completely
Unstable Low
Deciduous,
Small,
Dense
Narrow
Undercut banks,
roots/live trees,
overhanging
vegetation
Paved road, paved trail,
trash, clearing/house
E.1 Glide 12 feet 2.5 feet <1% Sand Fines N/A N/A Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Completely
Unstable Medium
Deciduous,
Small,
Dense
Medium
Undercut banks,
overhanging
vegetation,
macrophyte,
brush/wood
Fence, paved road
E.2 Dune/Ripple 10 feet 1.5 foot 1 to 2% Sand Fines N/A N/A Fair Not Properly
Functioning
Moderately
Unstable Medium
Mixed,
Small,
Dense
Medium
Undercut banks,
brush/wood,
overhanging
vegetation,
roots/live trees,
macrophytes
Trash, bridge,
clearing/park, paved road
E.3 Dune/Ripple 12 feet 1.5 foot <1% Sand Fines N/A N/A Fair Not Properly
Functioning
Moderately
Unstable Medium
Deciduous,
Small,
Dense
Medium
Undercut banks,
macrophyte,
overhanging
vegetation,
brush/wood, LWD
Fence, clearing/park,
clearing/house, trash
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton E-3
Table E-1 (continued). Stream Habitat Conditions in the Madsen Creek Improvement Project Study Area.
Site
Channel
Type
Bankfull Dimensions
Channel
Gradient
Substrate Type Substrate Condition
Physical
Habitat
Complexity
Functional
LWD
Bank
Stability
Floodplain
Connectivity
Vegetation
Condition
(Type, Tree
Size, Stand
Density)
Riparian
Buffer
Width Fish Cover Human Influences BFW BFD Primary Secondary Embeddedness Cementation
F.1 Dune/Ripple 10 feet 1.5 foot <1% Fines Sand N/A N/A Good At Risk Slightly
Unstable High
Mixed,
Large,
Dense
Wide
(100 feet)
Undercut banks,
overhanging
vegetation, live
tree/root wad
Fence, trash, clearing/park
F.2 Wetland 200 feet 2 feet <1% Fines Sand N/A N/A Good At Risk Moderately
Unstable High
Mixed,
Large,
Dense
Wide
(375 feet)
Overhanging
vegetation, LWD,
macrophyte
F.3 Wetland 200 feet 2 feet <1% Fines Sand N/A N/A Good At Risk Moderately
Unstable High
Mixed,
Large,
Dense
Wide
(390 feet)
Overhanging
vegetation, LWD,
brush, macrophyte
Fence, clearing/house
G.1 Excavated/
Constructed 6.5 feet 1.5 foot 4 to 8% Boulder Fines N/A N/A Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Slightly
Unstable Low
Grass,
Nonforest,
Nonforest
Narrow Overhanging
vegetation
Artificial ditch, trash,
unpaved road, paved road,
clearing/park,
clearing/house
G.2 Excavated/
Constructed 13 feet 2.5 feet 1 to 2% Fines Fines N/A N/A Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Slightly
Unstable Low
Grass,
Nonforest,
Nonforest
Narrow Overhanging
vegetation
Artificial ditch, trash,
unpaved road, paved road,
clearing/park,
clearing/house
H.1 Excavated/
Constructed NA NA 1 to 2% Sand Fines N/A N/A Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Armored/
Revetment Low
Grass,
Nonforest,
Nonforest
Wide
(150 feet) Macrophyte Culvert, paved road, trail,
fence
H.2 Excavated/
Constructed NA NA 1 to 2% Sand Fines N/A N/A Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Armored/
Revetment Low
Grass,
Nonforest,
Nonforest
Wide
(150 feet)
Overhanging
vegetation, culvert
Culvert, paved road, trail,
fence
I.1 Excavated/
Constructed 5 feet 2 feet <1% Fines Fines N/A N/A Poor/Simple Not Properly
Functioning
Armored/
Revetment Low
Mixed,
Small,
Sparse
Narrow Bridge, macrophytes
Artificial ditch,
wall/dike/revetment,
clearing/house, paved road
N/A = not applicable; for example, there was no riffle present in sampled sub-reach for metric to be evaluated.
APPENDIX F
Photographic Log
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton: Photographic Log F-1
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT REPORT—
MADSEN CREEK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT,
CITY OF RENTON: PHOTOGRAPHIC LOG
Photo
Number Photo Description
1 Reach A: Step-pool habitat surrounded by a mixed coniferous-deciduous upland forest.
2 Reach B: Sediment basin.
3 Reach C: Pool-riffle habitat through forested area adjacent to New Life Church recreation fields.
4 Reach D: Ditched stream with little cover and no sinuosity adjacent to State Route 169.
5 Reach E: Pool-riffle habitat through forested area adjacent to Ron Regis park.
6 Reach F: Glide and wetland habitat through Wetland A.
7 Reach G: High-flow bypass channel adjacent to New Life Church recreation fields.
8 Reach H: High-flow bypass channel between State Route 169 and Cedar River.
September 2018
F-2 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton: Photographic Log
1
2
3
September 2018
Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton: Photographic Log F-3
4 5
September 2018
F-4 Environmental Assessment Report—Madsen Creek Improvement Project, City of Renton: Photographic Log
6 7
8