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160804 MAD (Wetland Delineation Report).pdfRevised Wetland and Stream Delineation Report New Madrona K-8 Project City of Edmonds, Washington Revised August 4, 2016 Submitted To: Ms. Taine Wilton Edmonds School District #15 20420 68th Avenue West Lynnwood, Washington 98036 By: Shannon & Wilson, Inc. 400 N 34th Street, Suite 100 Seattle, Washington 98103 21-1-22082-002 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 i TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1.0 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................1 2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................1 3.0 METHODS .............................................................................................................................2 4.0 DOCUMENT REVIEW .........................................................................................................3 5.0 WETLAND DELINEATION ................................................................................................3 5.1 Wetland A ..................................................................................................................3 5.2 Wetland B ...................................................................................................................4 5.3 Wetland C ...................................................................................................................5 5.4 Uplands .......................................................................................................................6 6.0 REGULATIONS ....................................................................................................................6 6.1 Federal Regulations ....................................................................................................6 6.2 State Regulations ........................................................................................................7 6.3 City of Edmonds (City) ..............................................................................................8 6.3.1 Wetlands Regulations ..................................................................................8 6.3.2 Other Critical Areas ...................................................................................10 7.0 CLOSURE ............................................................................................................................11 8.0 REFERENCES .....................................................................................................................12 TABLES 1 Wetland Impact Compensatory Mitigation Ratios ..................................................7 2 Required Measures to Minimize Impacts (ECDC 23.50.040(F)(2) .........................8 FIGURES 1 Vicinity Map 2 Wetland Delineation Map TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.) 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 ii APPENDICES A Wetland Delineation Methodology B Wetland Determination Data Forms – Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region C Wetland Rating Forms – Western Washington D Important Information About Your Wetland Delineation/Mitigation and/or Stream Classification Report 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 1 REVISED WETLAND AND STREAM DELINEATION REPORT NEW MADRONA K-8 PROJECT CITY OF EDMONDS, WASHINGTON 1.0 INTRODUCTION Shannon & Wilson, Inc. (Shannon & Wilson) was contracted by the City of Edmonds School District (District) No. 15 to conduct a wetland and stream delineation for the New Madrona K-8 Project, located in Edmonds, Washington (Figure 1). The District plans to construct a new Madrona K-8 school on the south side of the approximately 40-acre property, located at 9300 236th Street SW (Snohomish County tax parcel 27033600404600). The project is located within Section 36 of Township 27 N, Range 4 E, Willamette Meridian. The wetland and stream delineation is intended to assist the District and design team in the site selection and conceptual design process. The scope of services for our wetland and stream delineation was limited to the following tasks:  Conduct a background review of information relating to the site.  Complete a wetland delineation on project site.  Estimate approximate wetland boundaries within 200 feet of the property boundary.  Delineate the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) of onsite streams.  Categorize wetlands using the 2014 Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington.1  Complete a wetland delineation report describing our findings including categories and standard buffer widths. 2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION The approximately 40-acre property is dissected by two steeply sloped wooded areas running in north-south alignments; one is a ravine located along the eastern property boundary and the other is a forested incline located near the middle of the property. The existing Madrona Elementary School is located in the northeast corner of the property and the former Woodway Elementary School is located in the opposite southwest corner of the property. Recreational areas including a track and baseball field, and soccer fields are located in the southeast and northwest corners of the property. The areas surrounding the property consist primarily of residential development. 1 The original scope also included wetland categorization under the 2004 Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington, but a subsequent City critical areas regulations update rendered those forms obsolete and they are not included in this final report. 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 2 The property is well used by local residents for recreation. During our site visits, we observed many people walking dogs in trail systems located throughout the sloped wooded areas as well, as many joggers on the track. A series of catch basin grates were observed along the inside of the track. The survey performed for the property shows that these storm drains, along with storm drain from the existing Madrona Elementary School, discharge to the top of the steep wooded slope in the middle of the property. The survey also identifies storm drain discharges to the top of the wooded ravine located on the eastern property boundary. 3.0 METHODS Shannon & Wilson conducted the wetland delineation fieldwork on July 6 and 7, 2015. Potential wetlands were identified using methods described in the Corps Wetlands Delineation Manual (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers [Corps] Waterways Experiment Station, 1987) and the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Corps Engineer Research and Development Center, 2010). Potential wetland areas were determined using the triple-parameter approach, which considers vegetation types, soil conditions, and hydrologic conditions. For an area to be considered wetland, it must display each of the following: (a) dominant plant species that are considered hydrophytic by the accepted classification indicators, (b) soils that are considered hydric under federal definition, and (c) indications of wetland hydrology, in accordance with the federal definition. Appendix A provides a detailed description of methodology used. Typically, the OHWM of streams are delineated following the guidance within Ecology’s technical report Determining the Ordinary High Water Mark on Streams in Washington State (Ecology, 2010). However, no onsite streams were observed; therefore, no OHWM delineations occurred. Identified wetlands were delineated by using pink “wetland boundary” flagging and pink pin flags. Data point locations were marked with orange flagging and orange pin flags. 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 3 4.0 DOCUMENT REVIEW Prior to conducting fieldwork, we reviewed the following background information:  U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Web Soil Survey interactive mapping system  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Wetland Inventory (NWI) Wetlands Mapper interactive mapping system  Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) SalmonScape mapping system  WDFW PHS on the Web interactive mapping system The NRCS web soil survey identifies the site soils as Alderwood gravelly, sandy loam; 15 to 30 percent slopes; Alderwood-Urban land complex; 2 to 8 percent slopes; and 8 to 15 percent slopes (USDA, 2015). These soil series are identified as non-hydric, however they may contain areas of hydric inclusions. Neither the NWI map, the WDFW SalmonScape application, nor the WDFW PHS on the Web application identify streams, wetlands, or other fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas on the property (USFWS, 2015 and WDFW, 2015 and 2016). 5.0 WETLAND DELINEATION Three wetlands (identified as Wetland A, B, and C) were delineated in the project area (Figure 2). Descriptions of the wetland and adjoining uplands follow. Vegetation is described below by common name, with the scientific name and indicator status in parentheses for the first use. Soils are described with the associated Munsell® Color Charts color. Wetlands were characterized according to the updated 2014 version of the “Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington” (Ecology, 2014) as required by the City, Corps, and Ecology (see Appendix B for Wetland Determination Data Forms and Appendix C for Wetland Rating Forms). 5.1 Wetland A Wetland A (approximately 0.02 acre) was delineated on the steep, wooded slope located in the middle of the property, approximately 100 feet downgradient from a storm drain outfall identified on the survey. A trail system on the slope allows human and pet access to the wetland. Wetland A is classified as a palustrine scrub-shrub wetland according to the Cowardin classification and is a slope wetland according to hydrogeomorphic classification. 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 4 Dominant vegetation in Wetland A includes a shrub strata of salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis, FAC), English laurel (Prunus laurocerasus, NI), mountain ash (Sorbus sitchensis, FAC), as well as an emergent strata of lady fern (Athyrium cyclosorum, FAC) (see Appendix B, Data Sheet DP-7). Soil in Wetland A is generally characterized by a surface horizon of black (10YR 2/1) loam extending to 5 inches below ground surface (bgs), underlain by a grayish brown (10YR 5/2) sand with dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/6) redoximorphic concentrations in the matrix. Soil observed in Wetland A meets the depleted below dark surface (A11) and depleted matrix (F3) hydric soil indicators. During the site visit, groundwater seeps were observed in Wetland A. Hydrology in Wetland A is likely predominantly supported by natural groundwater seeps. Although surface water flow may contribute to the wetland’s hydrology during and after rainfall, surface flow is not expected to be a significant contribution to the wetland’s hydrology. No evidence of surface water inputs, such as channelized flow, were observed during the fieldwork. Water in the data pit was observed at 11.5 inches bgs and the soil was saturated to the surface. Wetland A was rated according to Ecology’s 2014 wetland rating manual (Ecology, 2014). Wetland A is rated as a Category IV wetland (Appendix C). 5.2 Wetland B Wetland B (approximately 0.4 acre) was delineated within the wooded ravine located on the eastern property boundary. A network of walking paths run adjacent to and through parts of the wetland. Wetland B is classified as a palustrine forested wetland according to the Cowardin classification and as a depressional wetland according to the hydrogeomorphic classification. Dominant vegetation in Wetland B includes a forested strata of western red cedar (Thuja plicata, FAC) and red alder (Alnus rubra, FAC), as well as an emergent strata of slough sedge (Carex obnupta, OBL), yellow-flag iris (Iris pseudocorus, OBL), and reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea, FACW) (see Appendix B, Data Sheet DP-3). Soil in Wetland B is generally characterized by a black (10YR 2/1) silt loam extending to 4 inches bgs underlain by a very dark gray (10YR 3/1) silt loam with gray (10YR 6/1) depletions and dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/6) and grayish brown (10YR 5/2) redoximorphic concentrations extending to 17 inches bgs, underlain by a very dark gray (10YR 3/1) silt loam extending to 18 inches bgs, underlain by a very dark gray (10YR 3/1) silt loam with gray (10YR 6/1) depletions and dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/6) and grayish brown (10YR 5/2) 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 5 redoximorphic concentrations extending to at least 20 inches bgs. The redoximorphic and depletions observed in the soil below 4 inches bgs appeared blocky and mixed up within the matrix suggesting that the soil may have been disturbed in the past. Soils observed in Wetland B meet the redox dark surface (F6) hydric soil indicator. Wetland B is located downgradient of the storm drain outlets associated with the existing Madrona Elementary School and the play fields. Drainage patterns were observed upgradient of Wetland B in the ravine. While these areas showed indication of past surface water flow, they were not dominated by hydric vegetation and did not meet wetland hydric soil indicators. Hydrology in Wetland B is likely predominantly supported by surface flow from the surrounding ravine, the storm drain inputs from the school, and a seasonally high groundwater table. Wetland B was rated according to Ecology’s 2014 wetland rating manual (Ecology, 2014). Wetland B is rated as a Category III wetland (Appendix C). 5.3 Wetland C Wetland C (approximately 0.1 acre) was delineated south of Wetland A along the steep wooded slope located in the middle of the property. A trail system on the slope allows human and pet access to the wetland. Wetland C is classified as a palustrine emergent wetland according to the Cowardin classification and as a slope wetland according to hydrogeomorphic classification. Dominant vegetation in Wetland C includes a shrub strata of western red cedar, an emergent strata of lady fern, and creeping nightshade (Solanum dulcamara, FAC) (see Appendix B, Data Sheet DP-6). Soil in Wetland C is generally characterized by a black (10YR 2/1) loam, underlain by a grayish brown (10YR 5/2), gravelly, loamy sand with dark yellowish brown (10YR 4/4) redoximorphic concentrations in the matrix extending to at least 14 inches bgs. Soils observed in Wetland C meet the depleted below dark surface (A11) and the depleted matrix (F3) hydric soil indicators. During the site visit, groundwater seeps were observed throughout Wetland C. Wetland C is likely predominantly supported by natural groundwater seeps. Although surface water flow may contribute to the wetland’s hydrology during rainfall, surface flow is not expected to be a significant contribution to the wetland’s hydrology. . No evidence of surface water inputs to the wetland were observed during the fieldwork. Soil in the data pit was saturated to the surface. Wetland C was rated according to Ecology’s 2014 wetland rating manual (Ecology, 2014). Wetland C is rated as a Category IV wetland (Appendix C). 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 6 5.4 Uplands Uplands observed on the project site consist predominantly of developed school structures and recreational facilities as well as portions of the wooded slope and. The play fields are dominated by a variety of grasses, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale, facultative upland [FACU]), hairy cat’s ear (Hypochaeris radicata, FACU), and clover (Trifolium repens, facultative [FAC]). The wooded areas are dominated by western red cedar, Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii, FACU), hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla, FACU), red elderberry (Sambucus racemosa, FACU), holly (Ilex aquifolium, FACU), English laurel, sword fern (Polystichum munitum, FACU), and English ivy (Hedera helix, FACU) (see Appendix B, Data Sheets DP-1, DP-2, DP-4, and DP-5). Upland soils on the property generally consisted of a surface horizon comprised of dark yellowish brown (10YR 3/4) to black (5YR 2.5/1) loam in the upper 2 to 5 inches bgs, underlain by dark yellowish brown (10YR 3/4 and 4/4) to light olive brown (2.5Y 5/3) loamy sand to silt loam extending to at least 16 inches bgs. In areas closer to the wetland boundaries, redoximorphic concentrations were observed below 5 inches. However, the soil profiles in these areas do not meet wetland hydric soil indicators. No saturation was observed in the upland soils although surface drainage patterns were observed in the ravine and below storm drain outfalls on the western slope. 6.0 REGULATIONS Several local, state, and federal regulations apply to development proposals in and/or near wetlands and streams. A summary of applicable regulatory implications is given below. 6.1 Federal Regulations The Corps’ review process under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) is required for projects involving discharges of dredges or fill materials into waters of the United States, including non-isolated wetlands and streams. We did not observe a hydrologic surface connection between the onsite wetlands and a Water of the U.S. Therefore, the Corps may consider the onsite wetlands to be isolated and not subject to the CWA. However, this determination would need to be made by the Corps through a “Jurisdictional Determination.” If the Corps takes jurisdiction over the site wetlands, impacts to the wetlands would require compensatory wetland mitigation. The Corps, in cooperation with Ecology, has developed guidance for conducting wetland mitigation in western Washington (Ecology and others, 2006). For unavoidable impacts to Category III and Category IV wetlands, the Corps and Ecology 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 7 recommend the on-site and in-kind permittee-responsible mitigation ratios shown in Table 1 based on area (area of mitigation: area of wetland impact.) TABLE 1 WETLAND IMPACT COMPENSATORY MITIGATION RATIOS Wetland Category Reestablishment or Creation Rehabilitation Reestablishment or Creation (R/C) and Rehabilitation (RH) Reestablishment or Creation (R/C) and Enhancement (E) Enhancement Only III 2:1 4:1 1:1 R/C and 2:1 RH 1:1 R/C and 4:1 E 8:1 IV 1.5:1 3:1 1:1 R/C and 1:1 RH 1:1 R/C and 2:1 E 6:1 6.2 State Regulations Ecology has been authorized to implement Section 401 of the CWA for Water Quality Certification in Washington for most projects that require Corps permits under CWA Section 404. Typically, projects requiring a CWA Section 404 permit also require a CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification. If the onsite wetlands are determined to be isolated, the project would not require a Section 401 Water Quality Certification. The purpose of the 401 certification process is to ensure that federally permitted or federally funded activities comply with the federal CWA, state water quality laws, and any other applicable state laws. Some general requirements for Section 401, if it is required, include pollution spill prevention and response measures, disposal of excavated or dredged material in upland areas, use of fill material that does not compromise water quality, clear identification of construction boundaries, and provision for site access to the permitting agency for inspection. If the Corps does not take jurisdiction over the onsite wetlands under the CWA, Ecology still has regulatory authority to protect isolated wetlands under the State Water Pollution Control Act (Chapter 90.48 Revised Code of Washington). Ecology would perform an administrative review of the project and would issue an Administrative Order for unavoidable impacts to isolated wetlands. 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 8 6.3 City of Edmonds (City) 6.3.1 Wetlands Regulations The City regulates wetlands and wetland buffers under Chapter 23.50 of the Edmonds Community Development Code (ECDC) (City, 2016).2 Based on our field observations and using the 2014 Wetland Rating System for Western Washington, Wetlands A and C are Category IV wetlands and Wetland B is a Category III wetland (Appendix C). The City requires a 60-foot standard buffer around Category III wetlands and a 40-foot standard buffer around Category IV wetlands, with implementation of the following minimization measures when applicable (Table 2 and Figure 2) (ECDC 23.50.040(F)(1-2)). TABLE 2 REQUIRED MEASURES TO MINMINIZE IMPACTS (ECDC 23.50.040(F)(2)) Disturbance Required Measures to Minimize Impacts Lights Direct lights away from wetland. Noise • Locate activity that generates noise away from wetland. • If warranted, enhance existing buffer with native vegetation plantings adjacent to noise source immediately adjacent to the outer wetland buffer. Toxic runoff • Route all new, untreated runoff away from wetland while ensuring wetland is not dewatered. • Establish covenants limiting use of pesticides within 150 feet of wetlands. • Apply integrated pest management. Stormwater runoff • Retrofit stormwater detention and treatment for roads and existing adjacent development. • Prevent channelized flow from lawns that directly enters the buffer. • Use Low Impact Development (LID) techniques (per Puget Sound Action Team publication on LID techniques). Change in water regime Infiltrate or treat, detain, and disperse into buffer new runoff from impervious surfaces and new lawns. Pets and human disturbance • Use privacy fencing OR plant dense vegetation to delineate buffer edge and to discourage disturbance using vegetation appropriate for the ecoregion. • Place wetland and its buffer in a separate tract or protect with a conservation easement. Dust Use best management practices to control dust. Disruption of corridors or connections • Maintain connections to offsite areas that are undisturbed. • Restore corridors or connections to offsite habitats by replanting. 2 The Edmonds City Council adopted revisions to these regulations in May 2016, so all code references below are taken from the track changes version of the code provided in the Council’s agenda packet. Accordingly, there remain some typographical errors in that version with respect to section numbering. 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 9 In accordance with ECDC 23.50.040(F)(2), the City may require increased buffer widths on a case-by-case basis when a larger buffer is necessary to protect wetland functions and values. The City bases this determination on the following criteria:  A larger buffer is needed to protect other critical areas;  The buffer or adjacent uplands has a slope greater than 15 percent or is susceptible to erosion and standard erosion control measures will not prevent adverse impacts to the wetland;  The buffer area has minimal vegetative cover. In lieu of increasing the buffer width where existing buffer vegetation is inadequate to protect the wetland functions and values, development and implementation of a wetland buffer enhancement plan may substitute.  The wetland and/or buffer is occupied by a federally listed threatened or endangered species, a bald eagle nest, a great blue heron rookery, or a species of local importance; and it is determined by the director that an increased buffer width is necessary to protect the species. ECDC 23.50.040(G) allows for buffer reduction only when existing buffer vegetation is inadequate; the buffers of the existing wetlands are primarily densely vegetated with a mix of native tree and shrub species so this provision may not be applicable. Based on our understanding of the current development proposal, there may be some small areas of existing buffer that are lawn and ballfields that would be impacted. Under ECDC 23.50(G)(3), the City allows for buffer averaging with buffer enhancement if the following requirements are met:  The buffer averaging and enhancement plan provides evidence that wetland functions and values will be: ― Increased or retained through plan implementation for those wetlands where existing buffer vegetation is generally intact; or ― Increased through plan implantation for those wetlands where existing buffer vegetation is inadequate to protect the functions and values of the wetland.  The wetland contains variations in sensitivity due to existing physical characteristics or the character of the buffer varies in slope, soils, or vegetation, and the wetland would benefit from a wider buffer in places and would not be adversely impacted by a narrower buffer in other places;  The total area contained in the buffer area, or the total buffer area existing on a subject parcel for wetlands extending off-site, after averaging is no less than that which would be contained within a standard buffer; and 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 10  The buffer width at any single location is not reduced by more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the standard o buffer width. However, wetland buffer averaging that also modifies the erosion hazard area and/or its buffer would not be allowed by the ECDC without a geotechnical analysis and demonstration that the wetland buffer averaging and erosion or landslide hazard area buffer modification would not adversely impact the wetlands. Wetland buffer reduction through buffer enhancement may also be allowed if buffer averaging is not feasible on site (ECDC 23.50.040(G)(4)). ECDC 23.50.040(G)(8) describes potential permitted uses within wetland buffers, including conservation and restoration activities, passive recreation (such as trails), and stormwater management facilities. The proposed development of a new school and fire access road are not allowed uses within wetland buffers. If buffer averaging or reduction with enhancement is not sufficient to address the need for placement of structures, then a variance and additional buffer mitigation would be required. 6.3.2 Other Critical Areas The City regulates critical areas including wetlands (addressed in Section 6.3.1), fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas, geologically hazardous areas, critical aquifer recharge areas, frequently flooded areas, and shorelines under ECDC Title 23 Natural Resources. Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas include streams, state priority habitats and areas associated with state priority species, and federally designated threatened or endangered species, among others. The site investigation and document reviews did not identify any streams or other fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas on site or within 225 feet. This scope of services did not include professional assessment of other regulated critical areas. However, some observations about potential geologically hazardous areas is warranted given the affect this critical area can have on site development, particularly when it overlaps with wetlands and wetland buffers. Based on soils mapping, available topographic information, and the City’s definitions of geologically hazardous areas (ECDC 23.80.020), the presence of erosion and/or landslide hazard areas on the eastern and western sides of the property at or near Wetlands A, B, and C and their buffers seems likely. A geotechnical report would be required to establish the appropriate building setback and buffer from the top and toe of any erosion or landslide hazards. An additional analysis would be required to alter the hazard area, the minimum building setback and any required buffer (ECDC 23.80.070(A)(1-2)). A hazards analysis must demonstrate the following: 21-1-22082-002-R1f-rev/wp/lk 21-1-22082-002 12 8.0 REFERENCES City of Edmonds (Edmonds), 2016, City of Edmonds City Code Chapter 23.50 Wetlands: Edmonds, Wash., May 2016. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service, 2015, Web soil survey. Available: http://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/HomePage.htm. Accessed: August 2015. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Waterways Experiment Station, 1987, Corps of Engineers wetlands delineation manual: Vicksburg, Miss., U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Waterways Experiment Station, Wetlands Research Program Technical Report Y-87-1, 143 p., available: http://www.wli.nrcs.usda.gov/delineation/. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Engineer Research and Development Center, 2010, Regional supplement to the Corps of Engineers wetland delineation manual: western mountains, valleys, and coast region (version 2.0): Vicksburg, Miss., U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Engineer Research and Development Center, Final report ERDC/EL TR-10-3, 152 p. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), 2015, Web map service: FWS_Wetlands_WMS: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Open geographical information systems consortium version: 1.3. Available: http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/Data/WebMapServices. Accessed: August 2015. Washington State Department of (Ecology), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Seattle District, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 10, 2006, Wetland Mitigation in Washington State – Part 1: Agency Policies and Guidance (Version 1): Olympia, Wash, Washington State Department of Ecology, Publication no. 06-06-11a. Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology), 2010, Determining the ordinary high water mark on streams in Washington State, second review draft: Lacey, Wash., Washington State Department of Ecology, Publication no. 08-06-001. Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology), 2014, Washington State wetland rating system for western Washington: Olympia, Wash., Washington State Department of Ecology, Publication no. 14-06-029, 126 p. Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), 2015, SalmonScape mapping application, accessed July 2015, available: http://apps.wdfw.wa.gov/salmonscape/map.html Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), 2016, PHS on the Web mapping application, accessed March 2016, available: http://apps.wdfw.wa.gov/phsontheweb/ 104 NE 205th St 238th St SW 236th St SW 240th St SW Lake Ballinger PROJECT LOCATION 99 5 VICINITY MAP FIG. 1 Wetland Delineation Report New Madrona K-8 Project Edmonds, Washington Map adapted from aerial imagery provided by Google Earth Pro, reproduced by permission JUDQWHGE\*RRJOH(DUWK0DSSLQJ6HUYLFH NOTE August 2016 21-1-22082-002 Fi l e n a m e : J: \ 2 1 1 \ 2 2 0 8 2 - 0 0 2 \ 2 1 - 1 - 2 2 0 8 2 - 0 0 2 F i g 1 - V i c m a p . d w g D a t e : 08 - 0 3 - 2 0 1 6 L o g i n : SA C Seattle Tacoma Washington Project Location 90 5 MT 97 0 2,000 4,000 Approximate Scale in Feet DP-6 DP-2 DP-7 DP-4 DP-5 DP-3 DP-1 WETLAND DELINEATION MAP FIG. 2 Wetland Delineation Report New Madrona K-8 Project Edmonds, Washington Map adapted from aerial imagery provided by Google Earth Pro, reproduced by permission JUDQWHGE\*RRJOH(DUWK0DSSLQJ6HUYLFH NOTE August 2016 21-1-22082-002 Fi l e n a m e : J: \ 2 1 1 \ 2 2 0 8 2 - 0 0 2 \ 2 1 - 1 - 2 2 0 8 2 - 0 0 2 F i g 2 - S i t e P l a n . d w g D a t e : 08 - 0 3 - 2 0 1 6 L o g i n : SA C MT 0 200 400 Scale in Feet Data Point and Designation Wetland Boundary Wetland Buffer LEGEND WETLAND A CATEGORY IV WETLAND C CATEGORY IV WETLAND B CATEGORY III DP-2 60 Foot Buffer 40 Foot Buffer 21-1-22082-002 APPENDIX A WETLAND DELINEATION METHODOLOGY AppendixA_Methodology (Western Mtns) Dec 2012/ 21-1-22082-002 A-i APPENDIX A WETLAND DELINEATION METHODOLOGY TABLE OF CONTENTS Page A.1 WETLAND VEGETATION .......................................................................................... A-1 A.2 HYDRIC SOILS ............................................................................................................. A-3 A.3 WETLAND HYDROLOGY .......................................................................................... A-3 A.4 DISCLAIMER ................................................................................................................ A-4 A.5 REFERENCES ............................................................................................................... A-4 TABLE A-1 Definitions of Plant Indicator Status ................................................................... A-2 AppendixA_Methodology (Western Mtns) Dec 2012/ 21-1-22082-002 A-1 APPENDIX A WETLAND DELINEATION METHODOLOGY The triple-parameter approach, as required in the Washington State Department of Ecology’s (Ecology’s) 1997 Washington State Wetlands Identification and Delineation Manual, the United States Army Corps of Engineers’ (the Corps’) 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual, and the Corps’ 2010 Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Version 2.0) was used to identify and delineate the wetlands on the site described in this report. The triple-parameter approach requires that vegetation, soils, and hydrology are each evaluated to determine the presence or absence of wetlands. An area is considered to be a wetland if each of the following is met: (a) dominant hydrophytic vegetation is present in the area, (b) the soils in the area are hydric, and (c) the necessary hydrologic conditions within the area are met. A determination of wetland presence was made by conducting a Routine Delineation. Corresponding upland and wetland plots were recorded to characterize surface and subsurface conditions and more accurately determine the boundaries of on-site wetlands. A.1 WETLAND VEGETATION Hydrophytic plants are plant species specially adapted for saturated and/or anaerobic conditions. These species can be found in areas where there is a significant duration and frequency of inundation, which produces permanently or periodically saturated soils. Hydrophytic species, due to morphological, physiological, and reproductive adaptations, have the ability to grow, effectively compete, reproduce, and thrive in anaerobic soil. Indicators of hydrophytic vegetation are based on the wetland indicator status of plant species on the national wetland plant list (Lichvar, 2012). Plants are categorized as Obligate (OBL), Facultative Wetland (FACW), Facultative (FAC), Facultative Upland (FACU), or Upland (UPL). Species in the facultative categories (FACW, FAC, and FACU) are recognized as occurring in both wetlands and non- wetlands to varying degrees. Most wetlands are dominated mainly by species rated as OBL, FACW, or FAC (Table A-1). AppendixA_Methodology (Western Mtns) Dec 2012/ 21-1-22082-002 A-2 TABLE A-1 PLANT INDICATOR STATUS GROUPS Plant Indicator Status Categories Obligate Wetland (OBL) – Plants that almost always occur in wetlands. Facultative Wetland (FACW) – Plants that usually occur in wetlands, but may occur in non-wetlands. Facultative (FAC) – Plants that occur in wetlands or non-wetlands. Facultative Upland (FACU) – Plants that usually occur in non-wetlands, but may occur in wetlands. Obligate Upland (UPL) – Plants that almost never occur in wetlands. (Lichvar, 2012) The approximate percentage of absolute cover for each of the different plant species occurring within the tree, sapling/shrub, woody vine, and herbaceous strata was determined. Trees within a 30-foot radius; sapling/shrubs and woody vines within a 15-foot radius; and herbaceous species within a 5-foot radius of each data point were identified and noted. However, where site conditions merited it, the dimensions of the tree, sapling/shrub, woody vine, and herbaceous strata were modified. The dominance test is the primary hydrophytic vegetation indicator and it is used in all wetland delineations. Dominant plant species are considered to be those that, when cumulatively totaled in descending order of absolute percent cover, exceed 50 percent of the total absolute cover for each vegetative stratum. Any additional species individually representing 20 percent or greater of the total absolute cover for each vegetative strata are also considered dominant. Hydrophytic vegetation is considered to be present when greater than 50 percent of the dominant plant species within the area had an indicator status of OBL, FACW, or FAC. If a plant community does not meet the dominance test in areas where hydric soils and wetland hydrology are present, vegetation is reevaluated using the prevalence index, plant morphological adaptations for living in wetlands, and/or abundance of bryophytes (e.g., mosses) adapted to living in wetlands. The prevalence index is a weighted average that takes into account the abundance of all plant species within the sampling area to determine if hydrophytic vegetation is more or less prevalent. Using the prevalence index, all plants within the sampling area are grouped by wetland indicator status and absolute percent cover is summed for each group. Total cover for each indicator status group is weighted by the following multipliers: OBL=1, FACW=2, FAC=3, FACU=4, UPL=5. The prevalence index is calculated by dividing the sum of the weighted totals by the sum of total cover in the sampling area. A prevalence index of 3.0 or less indicates that hydrophytic vegetation is present. AppendixA_Methodology (Western Mtns) Dec 2012/ 21-1-22082-002 A-3 A.2 HYDRIC SOILS Hydric soils are defined as soils that formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part (USDA SCS, 1994). Repeated periods of saturation and inundation for more than a few days, in combination with soil microbial activity, causes depletion in oxygen (anaerobic conditions) and results in delayed decomposition of organic matter and reduction of iron, manganese, and sulfur elements. As a result of these processes, most hydric soils develop distinctive characteristics observable in the field during both wet and dry periods. (USDA NRCS, 2010). These characteristics may be exhibited as an accumulation of organic matter; bluish-gray, green-gray, or low chroma and high value soil colors; mottling or other concentrations of iron and manganese; and/or hydrogen sulfide odor similar to a rotten egg smell. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has developed official hydric soil indicators as summarized in Field Indicators of Hydric Soils in the United States (USDA NRCS, 2010). These indicators were developed to assist in delineation of hydric soils and are based predominantly on hydric soils near the margins of wetlands. Some hydric soils, including soils within the wettest parts of wetlands, may lack any of the approved hydric soil indicators. If a hydric soil indicator is present, the soil is determined to be hydric. If no hydric soil indicator is present, additional site information is used to assess whether the soil meets the definition of hydric soil. Identification of hydric soils was aided through observation of surface hydrologic characteristics and indicators of wetland hydrology (e.g., drainage patterns). Soil characteristics were observation at several data points, placed both inside and outside the wetland. Holes were dug with a shovel to the depth needed to document an indicator or to confirm the absence of hydric soil indicators. Soil organic content was estimated visually and texturally. Soil colors were examined in the field immediately after sampling. Dry soils were moistened. Soil colors were determined through analysis of the hue, value, and chroma best represented in the Munsell® Soil Color Chart. A.3 WETLAND HYDROLOGY Wetland hydrology is determined by observable evidence that inundation or soil saturation have occurred during a significant portion of the growing season repeatedly over a period of years so that wet condition have been sufficient to produce wetland vegetation and hydric soils. Wetland hydrology indicators give evidence of a continuing wetland hydrologic regime. Wetland hydrology criteria were considered to be satisfied if it appeared that wetland hydrology was AppendixA_Methodology (Western Mtns) Dec 2012/ 21-1-22082-002 A-4 present for at least 5 to 12.5 percent (12 to 31 days) of the growing season. The growing season in western Washington is typically considered to be from March 1 to October 31 (244 days). However, the growing season is considered to have begun when: (a) evidence of plant growth has begun on two non-evergreen vascular plants, and (b) the soil reaches a temperature of 41 degrees Fahrenheit at 12 inches. The Seattle District Corps of Engineers requires 14 consecutive days of inundation or saturation for a wetland hydrology to be considered present. Wetland hydrology was evaluated by direct visual observation of surface inundation or soil saturation in data plots. The area near each data point was examined for indicators of wetland hydrology. Wetland hydrology indicators are categorized as primary or secondary based on their estimated reliability. Wetland hydrology was considered present if there was evidence of one primary indicator or at least two secondary indicators. Some primary indicators include surface water, a shallow water table or saturated soils observed within 12 inches of the surface, dried watermarks, drift lines, sediment deposits, water-stained leaves, and algal mat/crust. Some secondary indicators include a water table within 12 to 24 inches of the surface during the dry season; drainage patterns; a landscape position in a depression, drainage, or fringe of a water body; and a shallow restrictive layer capable of perching water within 12 inches of the surface. A.4 DISCLAIMER This methodology was prepared for reference use only and is not intended to replace Ecology’s 1997 Washington State Wetlands Identification and Delineation Manual, the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual, or the Corps’ 2010 Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (Version 2.0). A.5 REFERENCES Munsell Color, 1992, Munsell soil color charts: Newburgh, N.Y., Macbeth Division of Kollmorgen Instruments Corporation, 1 v. Lichvar, R. W., 2012, The national wetland plant list: U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Engineer Research and Development Center, Report ERDCC/CRREL TR-12-11, 224 p., available: http://rsgisias.crrel.usace.army.mil/NWPL/doc/proc 2012/ERDC-CRREL TR-12-11 NWPL 2012.pdf. AppendixA_Methodology (Western Mtns) Dec 2012/ 21-1-22082-002 A-5 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Engineer Research and Development Center, 2010, Regional supplement to the Corps of Engineers wetlands delineation manual: western mountains, valleys and coast region, Version 2.0: Vicksburg, Miss., U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Engineer Research and Development Center, Report ERDC/EL TR-10-3, 153 p. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Waterways Experiment Station, 1987, Corps of Engineers wetlands delineation manual: Vicksburg, Miss., U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Waterways Experiment Station, Wetlands Research Program Technical Report Y-87-1, 143 p., available: http://www.wli.nrcs.usda.gov/delineation/. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Conservation Service (SCS), 1994, Changes in hydric soils of the United States: Washington, D.C., Office of the Federal Register, FR 59 (133): 35680-35681, July 13. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS), 2010, Field indicators of hydric soils in the United States, Version 7.0, L.M. Vasilas, G.W. Hurt, and C.V. Noble (eds.), USDA, NRCS, in cooperation with the National Technical Committee for Hydric Soils. Washington State Department of Ecology, 1997, Washington state wetlands identification and delineation manual: Olympia, Wash., Washington State Department of Ecology, Report 96-94. 21-1-22082-002 APPENDIX B WETLAND DETERMINATION DATA FORMS – WESTERN MOUNTAINS, VALLEYS, AND COAST REGION 21-1-22082-002 APPENDIX C WETLAND RATING FORMS – WESTERN WASHINGTON Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 1 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 Score for each function based on three ratings (order of ratings is not important) 9 = H,H,H 8 = H,H,M 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 RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington Name of wetland (or ID #): _________________________________ Date of site visit: _____ Rated by____________________________ Trained by Ecology?__ Yes ___No Date of training______ HGM Class used for rating_________________ Wetland has multiple HGM classes?___Y ____N NOTE: Form is not complete without 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 _______Category II – Total score = 20 - 22 _______Category III – Total score = 16 - 19 _______Category IV – Total score = 9 - 15 FUNCTION Improving Water Quality Hydrologic Habitat Circle the appropriate ratings Site Potential H M L H M L H M L Landscape Potential H M L H M L H M L Value H M L H M L H M L TOTAL Score Based on Ratings 2.Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland CHARACTERISTIC CATEGORY Estuarine I II Wetland of High Conservation Value I Bog I Mature Forest I Old Growth Forest I Coastal Lagoon I II Interdunal I II III IV None of the above A Wetland A 7/6 and 7/7/15 S. Corbin (PWS)X 10/09 and 10/14 XSlope Google Earth X 445 13 X IV 10/09 and 5/14 Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 2 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 Maps and figures required to answer questions correctly for Western Washington Depressional Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4 Hydroperiods D 1.4, H 1.2 Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods) D 1.1, D 4.1 Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure) D 2.2, D 5.2 Map of the contributing basin D 4.3, D 5.3 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) D 3.1, D 3.2 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) D 3.3 Riverine Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes H 1.1, H 1.4 Hydroperiods H 1.2 Ponded depressions R 1.1 Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure) R 2.4 Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants R 1.2, R 4.2 Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure) R 4.1 Map of the contributing basin R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) R 3.1 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) R 3.2, R 3.3 Lake Fringe Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4 Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants L 1.2 Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure) L 2.2 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) L 3.1, L 3.2 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) L 3.3 Slope Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes H 1.1, H 1.4 Hydroperiods H 1.2 Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants S 1.3 Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants (can be added to figure above) S 4.1 Boundary of 150 ft buffer (can be added to another figure) S 2.1, S 5.1 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) S 3.1, S 3.2 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) S 3.3 A 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 3 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 HGM Classification of Wetlands in Western Washington 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 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. 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. 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? ___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; ___At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m). 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 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, ____The water leaves the wetland without being impounded. NO – go to 5 YES – The wetland class is Slope 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). 5.Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria? ____The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding from that stream or river, ____The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years. For questions 1-7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated. 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, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1-7 apply, and go to Question 8. A X X X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 4 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 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 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. NO – go to 7 YES – The wetland class is 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. NO – go to 8 YES – The wetland class is Depressional 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 HGM class to use in rating Slope + Riverine Riverine Slope + Depressional Depressional Slope + Lake Fringe Lake Fringe Depressional + Riverine along stream within boundary of depression Depressional Depressional + Lake Fringe Depressional Riverine + Lake Fringe Riverine Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other class of freshwater wetland Treat as ESTUARINE 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. A Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 11 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 SLOPE WETLANDS Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality S 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality? S 1.1. Characteristics of the average slope of the wetland: (a 1% slope has a 1 ft vertical drop in elevation for every 100 ft of horizontal distance) Slope is 1% or less points = 3 Slope is > 1%-2% points = 2 Slope is > 2%-5% points = 1 Slope is greater than 5% points = 0 S 1.2. The soil 2 in below the surface (or duff layer) is true clay or true organic (use NRCS definitions): Yes = 3 No = 0 S 1.3. Characteristics of the plants in the wetland that trap sediments and pollutants: Choose the points appropriate for the description that best fits the plants in the wetland. Dense means you have trouble seeing the soil surface (>75% cover), and uncut means not grazed or mowed and plants are higher than 6 in. Dense, uncut, herbaceous plants > 90% of the wetland area points = 6 Dense, uncut, herbaceous plants > ½ of area points = 3 Dense, woody, plants > ½ of area points = 2 Dense, uncut, herbaceous plants > ¼ of area points = 1 Does not meet any of the criteria above for plants points = 0 Total for S 1 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 = H 6-11 = M 0-5 = L Record the rating on the first page S 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site? S 2.1. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft on the uphill side of the wetland in land uses that generate pollutants? Yes = 1 No = 0 S 2.2. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are not listed in question S 2.1? Other sources ________________ Yes = 1 No = 0 Total for S 2 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 1-2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page S 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society? S 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? Yes = 1 No = 0 S 3.2. Is the wetland in a basin or sub-basin where water quality is an issue? At least one aquatic resource in the basin is on the 303(d) list. Yes = 1 No = 0 S 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 unit is found. Yes = 2 No = 0 Total for S 3 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Value If score is: 2-4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page X 0 0 2 2 X 1 dog walkers/ dog poop 1 2 X 0 1 0 1 XX 31 Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 12 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 SLOPE WETLANDS Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that the site functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion S 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and stream erosion? S 4.1. Characteristics of plants that reduce the velocity of surface flows during storms: Choose the points appropriate for the description that best fits conditions in the wetland. Stems of plants should be thick enough (usually > 1/8 in), or dense enough, to remain erect during surface flows . Dense, uncut, rigid plants cover > 90% of the area of the wetland points = 1 All other conditions points = 0 Rating of Site Potential If score is: 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page S 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the hydrologic functions of the site? S 5.1. Is more than 25% of the area within 150 ft upslope of wetland in land uses or cover that generate excess surface runoff? Yes = 1 No = 0 Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page S 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society? S 6.1. Distance to the nearest areas downstr eam that have flooding problems: The sub-basin immediately down-gradient of site has flooding problems that result in damage to human or natural resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds) points = 2 Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-gradient points = 1 No flooding problems anywhere downstream points = 0 S 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood conveyance in a regional flood control plan? Yes = 2 No = 0 Total for S 6 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Value If score is: 2-4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS: A 0 X 0 X 1 0 1 X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 13 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes. HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat? 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. ____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: ____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 H 1.2. Hydroperiods 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). ____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 type 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 Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft 2. Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple loosestrife, Canadian thistle If you counted: > 19 species points = 2 5 - 19 species points = 1 < 5 species points = 0 H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats 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. None = 0 points Low = 1 point Moderate = 2 points All three diagrams in this row are HIGH = 3points A X 0 X 0 1 0 X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 14 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 H 1.5. Special habitat features: Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number of points. ____Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long). ____Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland ____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) ____Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see H 1.1 for list of strata) Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 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 functions of the site? H 2.1. Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit). Calculate: % undisturbed habitat + [(% moderate and low intensity land uses)/2] = _______% 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: % undisturbed habitat + [(% moderate and low intensity land uses)/2] = _______% 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 1 km Polygon is high intensity points = 0 Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 4-6 = H 1-3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page 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. Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2  It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)  It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant or animal on the state or federal lists)  It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species  It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the Department of Natural Resources  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 Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) within 100 m 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 A X 1 2 X 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -2 -2 X 1 X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 15 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 WDFW Priority Habitats 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/) 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.  Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).  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).  Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.  Old-growth/Mature forests: Old-growth west of Cascade crest – Stands of at least 2 tree species, 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.  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).  Caves: A naturally occurring cavity, recess, void, or system of interconnected passages under the earth in soils, rock, ice, or other geological formations and is large enough to contain a human.  Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.  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.  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. Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are addressed elsewhere. A X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 16 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS Wetland Type Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. Circle the category when the appropriate criteria are met. Category 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. 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? Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2 Cat. I SC 1.2. Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?  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. Yes = Category I No = Category II Cat. I Cat. II SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV) SC 2.1. Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list of Wetlands of High Conservation Value? 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 a 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 go to SC 2.4 No = Not a WHCV SC 2.4. Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation Value and listed it on their website? Yes = Category I No = Not a WHCV Cat. I SC 3.0. Bogs 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. SC 3.1. 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? Yes – Go to SC 3.3 No – Go to SC 3.2 SC 3.2. 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? Yes – Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog SC 3.3. 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? Yes = Is a Category I bog No – Go to SC 3.4 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. SC 3.4. 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? Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog Cat. I A Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 17 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands 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). Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section Cat. I SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?  The wetland lies in a depression adjacent to marine waters that is wholly or partially separated 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) 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 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.  The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2) Yes = Category I No = Category II Cat. I Cat. II SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands 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. 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. 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)? 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. 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? Yes = Category III No = Category IV Cat I Cat. II Cat. III Cat. IV Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form A N/A Wetland A Notes: - Entire wetland is scrub-shrub Cowardin class - Entire wetland is saturated - Dense, uncut vegetation is ~ 60% of wetland - Dense ridgid vegetation ~50% of wetland Wetland A Rating Figure 1. Cowardin Class, Hydroperiod and Pollutant Generating Surfaces Pollutant generating surface within 150 foot buffer 100% of 1 km buffer= high intensity land use Wetland A Rating Figure 2. One Kilometer Buffer Land Use Wetland A Rating Figure 3. Section 303(d) Ecology Screen Capture Wetland A Rating Figure 4. WRIA 8 TMDL Screen Capture Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 1 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 Score for each function based on three ratings (order of ratings is not important) 9 = H,H,H 8 = H,H,M 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 RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington Name of wetland (or ID #): _________________________________ Date of site visit: _____ Rated by____________________________ Trained by Ecology?__ Yes ___No Date of training______ HGM Class used for rating_________________ Wetland has multiple HGM classes?___Y ____N NOTE: Form is not complete without 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 _______Category II – Total score = 20 - 22 _______Category III – Total score = 16 - 19 _______Category IV – Total score = 9 - 15 FUNCTION Improving Water Quality Hydrologic Habitat Circle the appropriate ratings Site Potential H M L H M L H M L Landscape Potential H M L H M L H M L Value H M L H M L H M L TOTAL Score Based on Ratings 2.Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland CHARACTERISTIC CATEGORY Estuarine I II Wetland of High Conservation Value I Bog I Mature Forest I Old Growth Forest I Coastal Lagoon I II Interdunal I II III IV None of the above A 477 18 X S Corbin, (PWS)X 10/09 and 5/ 14 Depressional Wetland B X Google Earth III X 7/6 and 7/7/15 B Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 2 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 Maps and figures required to answer questions correctly for Western Washington Depressional Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4 Hydroperiods D 1.4, H 1.2 Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods) D 1.1, D 4.1 Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure) D 2.2, D 5.2 Map of the contributing basin D 4.3, D 5.3 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) D 3.1, D 3.2 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) D 3.3 Riverine Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes H 1.1, H 1.4 Hydroperiods H 1.2 Ponded depressions R 1.1 Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure) R 2.4 Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants R 1.2, R 4.2 Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure) R 4.1 Map of the contributing basin R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) R 3.1 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) R 3.2, R 3.3 Lake Fringe Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4 Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants L 1.2 Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure) L 2.2 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) L 3.1, L 3.2 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) L 3.3 Slope Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes H 1.1, H 1.4 Hydroperiods H 1.2 Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants S 1.3 Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants (can be added to figure above) S 4.1 Boundary of 150 ft buffer (can be added to another figure) S 2.1, S 5.1 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) S 3.1, S 3.2 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) S 3.3 1 1 B 1 1 1 2 3 4 5 Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 3 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 HGM Classification of Wetlands in Western Washington 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 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. 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. 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? ___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; ___At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m). 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 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, ____The water leaves the wetland without being impounded. NO – go to 5 YES – The wetland class is Slope 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). 5.Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria? ____The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding from that stream or river, ____The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years. For questions 1-7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated. 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, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1-7 apply, and go to Question 8. B Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 4 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 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 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. NO – go to 7 YES – The wetland class is 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. NO – go to 8 YES – The wetland class is Depressional 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 HGM class to use in rating Slope + Riverine Riverine Slope + Depressional Depressional Slope + Lake Fringe Lake Fringe Depressional + Riverine along stream within boundary of depression Depressional Depressional + Lake Fringe Depressional Riverine + Lake Fringe Riverine Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other class of freshwater wetland Treat as ESTUARINE 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. B Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 5 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 DEPRESSIONAL AND FLATS WETLANDS 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? D 1.1. Characteristics of surface water outflows from the wetland: Wetland is a depression or flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key) with no surface water leaving it (no outlet). points = 3 Wetland has an intermittently flowing stream or ditch, OR highly constricted permanently flowing outlet. points = 2 Wetland has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet that is permanently flowing points = 1 Wetland is a flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key), whose outlet is a permanently flowing ditch. points = 1 D 1.2. The soil 2 in below the surface (or duff layer) is true clay or true organic (use NRCS definitions).Yes = 4 No = 0 D 1.3. Characteristics and distribution of persistent plants (Emergent, Scrub-shrub, and/or Forested Cowardin classes): 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 Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12-16 = H 6-11 = M 0-5 = L Record the rating on the first page D 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site? D 2.1. Does the wetland unit receive stormwater discharges? Yes = 1 No = 0 D 2.2. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft of the wetland in land uses that generate pollutants? Yes = 1 No = 0 D 2.3. Are there septic systems within 250 ft of the wetland? Yes = 1 No = 0 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? Source_______________ Yes = 1 No = 0 Total for D 2 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 or 4 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page D 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society? 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? Yes = 1 No = 0 D 3.2. Is the wetland in a basin or sub-basin where an aquatic resource is on the 303(d) list? Yes = 1 No = 0 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)? Yes = 2 No = 0 Total for D 3 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Value If score is: 2-4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page B 3 0 1 4 8 X residential, dog poop from dog walkers 1 1 0 1 3 0 1 0 1 X X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 6 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 DEPRESSIONAL AND FLATS WETLANDS 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? D 4.1. Characteristics of surface water outflows from the wetland: Wetland is a depression or flat depression with no surface water leaving it (no outlet) points = 4 Wetland has an intermittently flowing stream or ditch, OR highly constricted permanently flowing outletpoints = 2 Wetland is a flat depression (QUESTION 7 on key), whose outlet is a permanently flowing ditch points = 1 Wetland has an unconstricted, or slightly constricted, surface outlet that is permanently flowing points = 0 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. 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 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. 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 Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12-16 = H 6-11 = M 0-5 = L Record the rating on the first page D 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support hydrologic functions of the site? D 5.1. Does the wetland receive stormwater discharges? Yes = 1 No = 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 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.)? Yes = 1 No = 0 Total for D 5 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 3 = H 1 or 2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page D 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society? 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 . 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. points = 2 Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-gradient. points = 1 Flooding from groundwater is an issue in the sub-basin. points = 1 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 _____________ points = 0 There are no problems with flooding downstream of the wetland. points = 0 D 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood conveyance in a regional flood control plan? Yes = 2 No = 0 Total for D 6 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Value If score is: 2-4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page B 4 3 3 10 X 1 1 1 3 X 1 1 X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 13 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes. HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat? 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. ____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: ____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 H 1.2. Hydroperiods 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). ____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 type 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 Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft 2. Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple loosestrife, Canadian thistle If you counted: > 19 species points = 2 5 - 19 species points = 1 < 5 species points = 0 H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats 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. None = 0 points Low = 1 point Moderate = 2 points All three diagrams in this row are HIGH = 3points B X 0 X X 1 1 0 Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 14 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 H 1.5. Special habitat features: Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number of points. ____Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long). ____Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland ____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) ____Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see H 1.1 for list of strata) Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 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 functions of the site? H 2.1. Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit). Calculate: % undisturbed habitat + [(% moderate and low intensity land uses)/2] = _______% 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: % undisturbed habitat + [(% moderate and low intensity land uses)/2] = _______% 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 1 km Polygon is high intensity points = 0 Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 4-6 = H 1-3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page 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. Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2  It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)  It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant or animal on the state or federal lists)  It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species  It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the Department of Natural Resources  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 Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) within 100 m 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 B X X X 3 5 X 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -2 -2 X 1 X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 15 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 WDFW Priority Habitats 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/) 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.  Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).  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).  Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.  Old-growth/Mature forests: Old-growth west of Cascade crest – Stands of at least 2 tree species, 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.  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).  Caves: A naturally occurring cavity, recess, void, or system of interconnected passages under the earth in soils, rock, ice, or other geological formations and is large enough to contain a human.  Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.  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.  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. Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are addressed elsewhere. X B Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 16 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS Wetland Type Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. Circle the category when the appropriate criteria are met. Category 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. 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? Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2 Cat. I SC 1.2. Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?  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. Yes = Category I No = Category II Cat. I Cat. II SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV) SC 2.1. Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list of Wetlands of High Conservation Value? 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 a 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 go to SC 2.4 No = Not a WHCV SC 2.4. Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation Value and listed it on their website? Yes = Category I No = Not a WHCV Cat. I SC 3.0. Bogs 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. SC 3.1. 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? Yes – Go to SC 3.3 No – Go to SC 3.2 SC 3.2. 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? Yes – Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog SC 3.3. 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? Yes = Is a Category I bog No – Go to SC 3.4 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. SC 3.4. 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? Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog Cat. I B Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 17 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands 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). Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section Cat. I SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?  The wetland lies in a depression adjacent to marine waters that is wholly or partially separated 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) 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 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.  The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2) Yes = Category I No = Category II Cat. I Cat. II SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands 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. 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. 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)? 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. 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? Yes = Category III No = Category IV Cat I Cat. II Cat. III Cat. IV Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form B N/A Wetland B Rating Figure 1. Cowardin Class, Hydroperiod, and Pollutant Generating Surface Pollutant Generating Surface in 150 foot buffer Wetland B Notes: - No outlet present - Entire wetland is forested Cowardin classs Area inside blue polygon = seasonally inundated Area outside blue polygon = saturated Wetland B Rating Figure 2. Contributing Basin Wetland B Contributing Basin Wetland B Rating Figure 3. 1 Kilometer Buffer 100% High Intensity Land Use Wetland B Rating Figure 4. 303d Screen Shot Wetland B Rating Figure 5. WRIA 8 TMDL Screen Shot Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 1 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 Score for each function based on three ratings (order of ratings is not important) 9 = H,H,H 8 = H,H,M 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 RATING SUMMARY – Western Washington Name of wetland (or ID #): _________________________________ Date of site visit: _____ Rated by____________________________ Trained by Ecology?__ Yes ___No Date of training______ HGM Class used for rating_________________ Wetland has multiple HGM classes?___Y ____N NOTE: Form is not complete without 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 _______Category II – Total score = 20 - 22 _______Category III – Total score = 16 - 19 _______Category IV – Total score = 9 - 15 FUNCTION Improving Water Quality Hydrologic Habitat Circle the appropriate ratings Site Potential H M L H M L H M L Landscape Potential H M L H M L H M L Value H M L H M L H M L TOTAL Score Based on Ratings 2.Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland CHARACTERISTIC CATEGORY Estuarine I II Wetland of High Conservation Value I Bog I Mature Forest I Old Growth Forest I Coastal Lagoon I II Interdunal I II III IV None of the above C Wetland C S. Corbin (PWS)X 10/09 and 5/14 Slope X Google Earth 7/6 and 7/7/15 6 4 4 14 X IV X 5 13 Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 2 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 Maps and figures required to answer questions correctly for Western Washington Depressional Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes D 1.3, H 1.1, H 1.4 Hydroperiods D 1.4, H 1.2 Location of outlet (can be added to map of hydroperiods) D 1.1, D 4.1 Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure) D 2.2, D 5.2 Map of the contributing basin D 4.3, D 5.3 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) D 3.1, D 3.2 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) D 3.3 Riverine Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes H 1.1, H 1.4 Hydroperiods H 1.2 Ponded depressions R 1.1 Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure) R 2.4 Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants R 1.2, R 4.2 Width of unit vs. width of stream (can be added to another figure) R 4.1 Map of the contributing basin R 2.2, R 2.3, R 5.2 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) R 3.1 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) R 3.2, R 3.3 Lake Fringe Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes L 1.1, L 4.1, H 1.1, H 1.4 Plant cover of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants L 1.2 Boundary of area within 150 ft of the wetland (can be added to another figure) L 2.2 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) L 3.1, L 3.2 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) L 3.3 Slope Wetlands Map of: To answer questions: Figure # Cowardin plant classes H 1.1, H 1.4 Hydroperiods H 1.2 Plant cover of dense trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants S 1.3 Plant cover of dense, rigid trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants (can be added to figure above) S 4.1 Boundary of 150 ft buffer (can be added to another figure) S 2.1, S 5.1 1 km Polygon: Area that extends 1 km from entire wetland edge - including polygons for accessible habitat and undisturbed habitat H 2.1, H 2.2, H 2.3 Screen capture of map of 303(d) listed waters in basin (from Ecology website) S 3.1, S 3.2 Screen capture of list of TMDLs for WRIA in which unit is found (from web) S 3.3 C 11 1 1 1 2 3 4 Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 3 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 HGM Classification of Wetlands in Western Washington 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 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. 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. 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? ___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; ___At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft (2 m). 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 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, ____The water leaves the wetland without being impounded. NO – go to 5 YES – The wetland class is Slope 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). 5.Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria? ____The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank flooding from that stream or river, ____The overbank flooding occurs at least once every 2 years. For questions 1-7, the criteria described must apply to the entire unit being rated. 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, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1-7 apply, and go to Question 8. C Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 4 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 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 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. NO – go to 7 YES – The wetland class is 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. NO – go to 8 YES – The wetland class is Depressional 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 HGM class to use in rating Slope + Riverine Riverine Slope + Depressional Depressional Slope + Lake Fringe Lake Fringe Depressional + Riverine along stream within boundary of depression Depressional Depressional + Lake Fringe Depressional Riverine + Lake Fringe Riverine Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other class of freshwater wetland Treat as ESTUARINE 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. C Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 11 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 SLOPE WETLANDS Water Quality Functions - Indicators that the site functions to improve water quality S 1.0. Does the site have the potential to improve water quality? S 1.1. Characteristics of the average slope of the wetland: (a 1% slope has a 1 ft vertical drop in elevation for every 100 ft of horizontal distance) Slope is 1% or less points = 3 Slope is > 1%-2% points = 2 Slope is > 2%-5% points = 1 Slope is greater than 5% points = 0 S 1.2. The soil 2 in below the surface (or duff layer) is true clay or true organic (use NRCS definitions): Yes = 3 No = 0 S 1.3. Characteristics of the plants in the wetland that trap sediments and pollutants: Choose the points appropriate for the description that best fits the plants in the wetland. Dense means you have trouble seeing the soil surface (>75% cover), and uncut means not grazed or mowed and plants are higher than 6 in. Dense, uncut, herbaceous plants > 90% of the wetland area points = 6 Dense, uncut, herbaceous plants > ½ of area points = 3 Dense, woody, plants > ½ of area points = 2 Dense, uncut, herbaceous plants > ¼ of area points = 1 Does not meet any of the criteria above for plants points = 0 Total for S 1 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Site Potential If score is: 12 = H 6-11 = M 0-5 = L Record the rating on the first page S 2.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the water quality function of the site? S 2.1. Is > 10% of the area within 150 ft on the uphill side of the wetland in land uses that generate pollutants? Yes = 1 No = 0 S 2.2. Are there other sources of pollutants coming into the wetland that are not listed in question S 2.1? Other sources ________________ Yes = 1 No = 0 Total for S 2 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 1-2 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page S 3.0. Is the water quality improvement provided by the site valuable to society? S 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? Yes = 1 No = 0 S 3.2. Is the wetland in a basin or sub-basin where water quality is an issue? At least one aquatic resource in the basin is on the 303(d) list. Yes = 1 No = 0 S 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 unit is found. Yes = 2 No = 0 Total for S 3 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Value If score is: 2-4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page C 0 0 0 0 X 0 1Dog walkers/ dog poop 1 0 1 2 3 X X X 0 1 Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 12 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 SLOPE WETLANDS Hydrologic Functions - Indicators that the site functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion S 4.0. Does the site have the potential to reduce flooding and stream erosion? S 4.1. Characteristics of plants that reduce the velocity of surface flows during storms: Choose the points appropriate for the description that best fits conditions in the wetland. Stems of plants should be thick enough (usually > 1/8 in), or dense enough, to remain erect during surface flows . Dense, uncut, rigid plants cover > 90% of the area of the wetland points = 1 All other conditions points = 0 Rating of Site Potential If score is: 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page S 5.0. Does the landscape have the potential to support the hydrologic functions of the site? S 5.1. Is more than 25% of the area within 150 ft upslope of wetland in land uses or cover that generate excess surface runoff? Yes = 1 No = 0 Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page S 6.0. Are the hydrologic functions provided by the site valuable to society? S 6.1. Distance to the nearest areas downstr eam that have flooding problems: The sub-basin immediately down-gradient of site has flooding problems that result in damage to human or natural resources (e.g., houses or salmon redds) points = 2 Surface flooding problems are in a sub-basin farther down-gradient points = 1 No flooding problems anywhere downstream points = 0 S 6.2. Has the site been identified as important for flood storage or flood conveyance in a regional flood control plan? Yes = 2 No = 0 Total for S 6 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Value If score is: 2-4 = H 1 = M 0 = L Record the rating on the first page NOTES and FIELD OBSERVATIONS: C 0 X 0 X 1 0 1 X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 13 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes. HABITAT FUNCTIONS - Indicators that site functions to provide important habitat H 1.0. Does the site have the potential to provide habitat? 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. ____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: ____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 H 1.2. Hydroperiods 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). ____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 type 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 Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft 2. Different patches of the same species can be combined to meet the size threshold and you do not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian milfoil, reed canarygrass, purple loosestrife, Canadian thistle If you counted: > 19 species points = 2 5 - 19 species points = 1 < 5 species points = 0 H 1.4. Interspersion of habitats 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. None = 0 points Low = 1 point Moderate = 2 points All three diagrams in this row are HIGH = 3points C X 0 X 0 1 0 X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 14 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 H 1.5. Special habitat features: Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number of points. ____Large, downed, woody debris within the wetland (> 4 in diameter and 6 ft long). ____Standing snags (dbh > 4 in) within the wetland ____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) ____Invasive plants cover less than 25% of the wetland area in every stratum of plants (see H 1.1 for list of strata) Total for H 1 Add the points in the boxes above 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 functions of the site? H 2.1. Accessible habitat (include only habitat that directly abuts wetland unit). Calculate: % undisturbed habitat + [(% moderate and low intensity land uses)/2] = _______% 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: % undisturbed habitat + [(% moderate and low intensity land uses)/2] = _______% 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 1 km Polygon is high intensity points = 0 Total for H 2 Add the points in the boxes above Rating of Landscape Potential If score is: 4-6 = H 1-3 = M < 1 = L Record the rating on the first page 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. Site meets ANY of the following criteria: points = 2  It has 3 or more priority habitats within 100 m (see next page)  It provides habitat for Threatened or Endangered species (any plant or animal on the state or federal lists)  It is mapped as a location for an individual WDFW priority species  It is a Wetland of High Conservation Value as determined by the Department of Natural Resources  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 Site has 1 or 2 priority habitats (listed on next page) within 100 m 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 C X 1 2 X 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -2 -2 X 1 X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 15 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 WDFW Priority Habitats 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/) 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.  Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 1 ac (0.4 ha).  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).  Herbaceous Balds: Variable size patches of grass and forbs on shallow soils over bedrock.  Old-growth/Mature forests: Old-growth west of Cascade crest – Stands of at least 2 tree species, 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.  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).  Caves: A naturally occurring cavity, recess, void, or system of interconnected passages under the earth in soils, rock, ice, or other geological formations and is large enough to contain a human.  Cliffs: Greater than 25 ft (7.6 m) high and occurring below 5000 ft elevation.  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.  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. Note: All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list because they are addressed elsewhere. C X Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 16 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS Wetland Type Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. Circle the category when the appropriate criteria are met. Category 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. 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? Yes = Category I No - Go to SC 1.2 Cat. I SC 1.2. Is the wetland unit at least 1 ac in size and meets at least two of the following three conditions?  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. Yes = Category I No = Category II Cat. I Cat. II SC 2.0. Wetlands of High Conservation Value (WHCV) SC 2.1. Has the WA Department of Natural Resources updated their website to include the list of Wetlands of High Conservation Value? 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 a 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 go to SC 2.4 No = Not a WHCV SC 2.4. Has WDNR identified the wetland within the S/T/R as a Wetland of High Conservation Value and listed it on their website? Yes = Category I No = Not a WHCV Cat. I SC 3.0. Bogs 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. SC 3.1. 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? Yes – Go to SC 3.3 No – Go to SC 3.2 SC 3.2. 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? Yes – Go to SC 3.3 No = Is not a bog SC 3.3. 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? Yes = Is a Category I bog No – Go to SC 3.4 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. SC 3.4. 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? Yes = Is a Category I bog No = Is not a bog Cat. I C Wetland name or number ______ Wetland Rating System for Western WA: 2014 Update 17 Rating Form – Effective January 1, 2015 SC 4.0. Forested Wetlands 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). Yes = Category I No = Not a forested wetland for this section Cat. I SC 5.0. Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?  The wetland lies in a depression adjacent to marine waters that is wholly or partially separated 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) 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 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.  The wetland is larger than 1/10 ac (4350 ft2) Yes = Category I No = Category II Cat. I Cat. II SC 6.0. Interdunal Wetlands 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. 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. 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)? 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. 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? Yes = Category III No = Category IV Cat I Cat. II Cat. III Cat. IV Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics If you answered No for all types, enter “Not Applicable” on Summary Form Wetland C Notes: - Entire wetland is emergent Cowardin class - Entire wetland is saturated - Dense, uncut vegetation is ~ 10% of wetland - Dense rigid vegetation ~10% of wetland Wetland C Rating Figure 1. Cowardin Class, Hydroperiod, Pollutant Generating Surfaces Pollutant generating surface within 150 foot buffer 100% of 1 km buffer= high intensity land use Wetland C Rating Figure 2. One Kilometer Buffer Land Use Intensity Wetland C Rating Figure 3. Section 303(d) Ecology Screen Shot Wetland C Rating Figure 3. WRIA 8 TMDL Screen Shot 21-1-22082-002 APPENDIX D IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR WETLAND DELINEATION/MITIGATION AND/OR STREAM CLASSIFICATION REPORT Page 1 of 2 1/2016 SHANNON & WILSON, INC. Geotechnical and Environmental Consultants Attachment to and part of Report 21-1-22082-002 Date: August 4, 2016 To: Ms. Taine Wilton Edmonds School District #15 IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR WETLAND DELINEATION/MITIGATION AND/OR STREAM CLASSIFICATION REPORT A WETLAND/STREAM REPORT IS BASED ON PROJECT-SPECIFIC FACTORS. Wetland delineation/mitigation and stream classification reports are based on a unique set of project-specific factors. These typically include the general nature of the project and property involved, its size, and its configuration; historical use and practice; the location of the project on the site and its orientation; and the level of additional risk the client assumed by virtue of limitations imposed upon the exploratory program. The jurisdiction of any particular wetland/stream is determined by the regulatory authority(s) issuing the permit(s). As a result, one or more agencies will have jurisdiction over a particular wetland or stream with sometimes confusing regulations. It is necessary to involve a consultant who understands which agency(s) has jurisdiction over a particular wetland/stream and what the agency(s) permitting requirements are for that wetland/stream. To help reduce or avoid potential costly problems, have the consultant determine how any factors or regulations (which can change subsequent to the report) may affect the recommendations. Unless your consultant indicates otherwise, your report should not be used:  If the size or configuration of the proposed project is altered.  If the location or orientation of the proposed project is modified.  If there is a change of ownership.  For application to an adjacent site.  For construction at an adjacent site or on site.  Following floods, earthquakes, or other acts of nature. Wetland/stream consultants cannot accept responsibility for problems that may develop if they are not consulted after factors considered in their reports have changed. Therefore, it is incumbent upon you to notify your consultant of any factors that may have changed prior to submission of our final report. Wetland boundaries identified and stream classifications made by Shannon & Wilson are considered preliminary until validated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) and/or the local jurisdictional agency. Validation by the regulating agency(s) provides a certification, usually written, that the wetland boundaries verified are the boundaries that will be regulated by the agency(s) until a specified date, or until the regulations are modified, and that the stream has been properly classified. Only the regulating agency(s) can provide this certification. MOST WETLAND/STREAM "FINDINGS" ARE PROFESSIONAL ESTIMATES. Site exploration identifies wetland/stream conditions at only those points where samples are taken and when they are taken, but the physical means of obtaining data preclude the determination of precise conditions. Consequently, the information obtained is intended to be sufficiently accurate for design, but is subject to interpretation. Additionally, data derived through sampling and subsequent laboratory testing are extrapolated by the consultant who then renders an opinion about overall conditions, the likely reaction to proposed construction activity, and/or appropriate design. Even under optimal circumstances, actual conditions may differ from those thought to exist because no consultant, no matter how qualified, and no exploration program, no matter how comprehensive, can reveal what is hidden by earth, rock, and time. Nothing can be done to prevent the unanticipated, but steps can be taken to help reduce their impacts. For this reason, most experienced owners retain their consultants through the construction or wetland mitigation/stream classification stage to identify variances, to conduct additional evaluations that may be needed, and to recommend solutions to problems encountered on site. Page 2 of 2 1/2016 WETLAND/STREAM CONDITIONS CAN CHANGE. Since natural systems are dynamic systems affected by both natural processes and human activities, changes in wetland boundaries and stream conditions may be expected. Therefore, delineated wetland boundaries and stream classifications cannot remain valid for an indefinite period of time. The Corps typically recognizes the validity of wetland delineations for a period of five years after completion. Some city and county agencies recognize the validity of wetland delineations for a period of two years. If a period of years have passed since the wetland/stream report was completed, the owner is advised to have the consultant reexamine the wetland/stream to determine if the classification is still accurate. Construction operations at or adjacent to the site and natural events such as floods, earthquakes, or water fluctuations may also affect conditions and, thus, the continuing adequacy of the wetland/stream report. The consultant should be kept apprised of any such events and should be consulted to determine if additional evaluation is necessary. THE WETLAND/STREAM REPORT IS SUBJECT TO MISINTERPRETATION. Costly problems can occur when plans are developed based on misinterpretation of a wetland/stream report. To help avoid these problems, the consultant should be retained to work with other appropriate professionals to explain relevant wetland, stream, geological, and other findings, and to review the adequacy of plans and specifications relative to these issues. DATA FORMS SHOULD NOT BE SEPARATED FROM THE REPORT. Final data forms are developed by the consultant based on interpretation of field sheets (assembled by site personnel) and laboratory evaluation of field samples. Only final data forms customarily are included in a report. These data forms should not, under any circumstances, be drawn for inclusion in other drawings because drafters may commit errors or omissions in the transfer process. Although photographic reproduction eliminates this problem, it does nothing to reduce the possibility of misinterpreting the forms. When this occurs, delays, disputes, and unanticipated costs are frequently the result. To reduce the likelihood of data form misinterpretation, contractors, engineers, and planners should be given ready access to the complete report. Those who do not provide such access may proceed under the mistaken impression that simply disclaiming responsibility for the accuracy of information always insulates them from attendant liability. Providing the best available information to contractors, engineers, and planners helps prevent costly problems and the adversarial attitudes that aggravate them to a disproportionate scale. READ RESPONSIBILITY CLAUSES CLOSELY. Because a wetland delineation/stream classification is based extensively on judgment and opinion, it is far less exact than other design disciplines. This situation has resulted in wholly unwarranted claims being lodged against consultants. To help prevent this problem, consultants have developed a number of clauses for use in written transmittals. These are not exculpatory clauses designed to foist the consultant's liabilities onto someone else; rather, they are definitive clauses that identify where the consultant's responsibilities begin and end. Their use helps all parties involved recognize their individual responsibilities and take appropriate action. Some of these definitive clauses are likely to appear in your report, and you are encouraged to read them closely. Your consultant will be pleased to give full and frank answers to your questions. THERE MAY BE OTHER STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO REDUCE RISK. Your co nsultant will be pleased to discuss other techniques or designs that can be employed to mitigate the risk of delays and to provide a variety of alternatives that may be beneficial to your project. Contact your consultant for further information.