Memo to Eng re civils.pdf
MEMORANDUM
Date:January 8, 2008
To:Jeanie McConnell, Engineering Program Manager
From:Mike Clugston, Planner
Subject:
WICHERS SHORT PLAT (S-07-48) CIVILS REVIEW
The following are my comments regarding the civil drawing submitted by Rick Wichers for his short plat
nd
at 21821 92 Avenue West.
1) Spreader Trench: The spreader trench cannot be located in the proposed position in the wetland
buffer. The applicant applied for a reduced wetland buffer of 30'. This was approved since
mitigation was offered. The spreader trench was originally proposed to be about 40' to the west of
where the civil drawings now show it and, most importantly, it was outside of the buffer area.
Regardless, a condition of plat approval was that the project biologist would review the placement of
the spreader trench:
The proposed placement of the spreader trench shown on the Preliminary Development
Plan must be approved by the project biologist to ensure it does not negatively impact the
wetland buffer improvements.
That said, the critical areas code states that some things can go into a Cat 3/4 buffer (ECDC
23.50.040.F.8 Wetland Development Standards, Buffer Uses):
(8)(c) - Storm Water Management Facilities. Storm water management facilities, limited
to outfalls, pipes and conveyance systems, storm water dispersion outfalls and bioswales,
may be allowed within the outer 25 percent of a standard or modified buffer for Category
3 or 4 wetlands only; provided, that:
i. No other location is feasible; and
ii. The location and function of such facilities will not degrade the functions or values of
the wetland.
In the end, it is preferable for the spreader trench to be outside the wetland buffer. However, if it
must be inside, it must comply with 23.50.040.F.8.c. Either way, the project biologist needs to
approve the location and state that the position of the trench will not negatively impact the wetland.
Mike Clugston
Planner