08-100196Grett
E N V I R 0 N
e Associates=
MENTAL CONSULTANTS
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM
Prepared by: Grette AssociatesLLc July 30, 2008
Prepared for: City of Federal Way Grette File No.: 205.006
Attention: Matthew Herrera
Re: Eichholtz — Wetland Review
Federal Way #: 08-100196-00-AD
1.0 Introduction
Grette Associates has contracted with The City of Federal Way (City) to assist in a wetland review basic
service, which includes verification of the wetland status, wetland evaluation and categorization for the Bill
Eichholtz property. In addition, Grette Associates reviewed the following documents provided by the City; a
City Wetland Inventory Field Form completed December 18, 1998 and the associated City Wetland Inventory
Map. The property is located at 33049 38`h Avenue South, in Federal Way, Washington (Subject Property).
The Subject Property is recorded as King County Tax Parcel 614360-0155. A site visit was conducted on
February 14, 2008.
2.0 Review
A Grette Associates biologist conducted a thorough review of the documents provided, including a 2005 aerial
photographs obtained from the King County iMAP website. The review goals were to examine the site in an
unbiased manner using the best available science in order to determine the extent of wetlands on and adjacent
to the Subject Property.
The review focused on verifying the accuracy of the documents obtained and compliance with the
requirements of Federal Way City Code (FWCQ Chapter 22, Article XIV-Critical Areas. In addition, a site
assessment was conducted on February 14, 2008. The site assessment included a verification of the City
determined wetland boundary and ordinary high water mark (OHWM) of North Lake. The wetland
categorization was also evaluated during the site assessment.
3.0 Subject Property Description
The Subject Property is an approximately 0.56 acre parcel that is developed as residential property abutting the
east shoreline of North Lake; a lake identified as a lake of the state comprising approximately 55 acres in size.
The east property boundary abuts 38th Avenue South and North Lake abuts the west boundary. Single-family
residences are found north and south of the Subject Property. A rock bulkhead extends along the Subject
Property shoreline and continues off -site to the north and south. The land has a low to moderate downward
slope from 38th Avenue South to the lake.
Vegetation on the property is dominated by Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii, FACU), beaked hazelnut
(Corylus cornuta, FACU), western red cedar (Thuja plicata, FAC), rhododendron (Rhododendron
macrophyllum, NOL), salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis, FAC+), sword fern (Polystichum munitum, FACU),
English ivy (Hedeaa helix, NOL), and variegated mint (not identified). Two western red cedar trees are found
WENATCHEE TACOMA
509-663-6300 253-573-9300
Fax 509-664-1882 Fax 253-573-9321
151 S. WORTHEN ST. STE. 101 • WENATCHEE, WA 98801 2111 NORTH 30TH STREET • TACOMA, WA 98403
on the Subject Property and along the upland edge of the bulkhead and were used to locate the City identified
wetland boundary.
A single-family wood dwelling is located on the Subject Property, approximately 50 feet landward from the
bulkhead, with a detached shed and garage found upslope of the residence. The OHWM of the lake was
determined using water lines observed on the bulkhead.
4.0 Findings
Based on the initial review of Federal Way wetland maps, the subject property abuts North Lake and a lake
fringe wetland approximately 25,000 square feet in area that extends northward along the shoreline, abutting
the subject property on the west (Federal Way Zoning Map #69). This wetland was rated as a Category I
wetland by Sheldon & Associates (1998) and is shown on the current zoning map as a narrow band adjacent to
the lake.
The narrow wetland associated with a lake is referred to in the Washington State Wetland Rating System for
Western Washington as a lake fringe wetland (Hruby 2004, revised) and forms a separation between the deep
(open) water habitat and shoreline. The Washington State Wetlands Identification and Delineation Manual
describes deepwater aquatic habitat (open water) areas as those areas that are permanently inundated at a mean
annual water depth >6.6 feet (2 meters) or <6.6 feet and do not support rooted emergent or woody plant
species (Washington Department of Ecology 1997). Lake Fringe wetlands are those areas less than 6.6 feet
and support rooted emergent and woody vegetation (iris, cattail, water lily, willow, etc.) and do not extend into
open water areas of the lake. In addition, lake fringe wetlands can be characterized and rated separately when
the band of emergent vegetation disappears or is narrow (<1 foot) for at least 33 feet (Hrubry 2004, revised).
Because this review was conducted during the dormant time of year, most wetland plants were not readily
visible; as such plants identified during the 1998 study or those that were observed during the February
14, 2008 review were used to rate the wetland; with aerial photo interpretation being used to determine the
area of wetland for jurisdiction and rating purposes.
A preliminary review of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Priority Habitat and
Species database and the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) Natural Heritage Database
was conducted; resulting in no indication of any endangered, threatened, or potentially extirpated plant, fish or
animal species associated with the wetland. North Lake contains fish and the outlet
Wetland categories and associated buffers within Federal Way are determined using the following criteria
(FWCC 22-1357):
(1) Category I wetlands meet one of the following criteria:
a. Contain the presence of species or documented habitat recognized by state or federal
agencies as endangered, threatened or potentially extirpated plant, fish or animal species, or
b. Contain the presence of plant associations of infrequent occurrence, irreplaceable ecological
functions, or exceptional local significance including but not limited to estuarine systems, peat
bogs and fens, mature forested wetlands, groundwater exchange areas, significant habitat or
unique educational sites, or
c. Have three or more wetland classes, one of which is open water.
(2) Category 11 wetlands are greater than 2,500 square feet in area, do not exhibit the
characteristics of Category 1 wetlands, and meet one of the following criteria:
a. Are contiguous with water bodies or tributaries to water bodies which under normal
circumstances contain or support a fish population, including streams where flow is intermittent,
or
WENATCHEE TACOMA
509-663-6300 253-573-9300
Fax 509-664-1882 Fax 253-573-9321
151 S. WORTHEN ST. STE. 101 • WENATCHEE, WA 98801 2111 NORTH 30TH STREET 9 TACOMA, WA 98403
b. Are greater than one acre in size in its entirety; or
c. Are less than or equal to one acre in size in its entirety and have two or more wetland classes,
with neither class dominated by non-native invasive species.
(3) Category 111 wetlands are greater than 2,500 square feet in area and do not exhibit those
characteristics of Category 1 or 11 wetlands.
(b) Standard buffer widths for regulated wetlands are established as follows:
(1) Category 1 wetlands shall have a standard buffer width of 200 feet.
(2) Category 11 wetlands shall have a standard buffer width of 100 feet.
(3) Category 111 wetlands shall have a standard buffer width of 50 feet for wetlands that are
greater than 10,000 square feet in area, and shall have a standard buffer width of 25 feet for
wetlands that are between 2,500 to 10, 000 square feet in area.
This assessment used on -site and off -site methodologies to identify and estimate wetland areas. Through
aerial photo interpretation and using the existing bulkhead and nearby trees as reference points, this assessment
concludes that the OWHM of the lake is accurate and located along the edge of the bulkhead. Based on aerial
photo interpretation, bathymetric mapping of the lake, review of previous wetland mappings (Federal Way
Zoning Map #69), and on -site observations; emergent vegetation is found along the shoreline adjacent to the
subject property and extends north and south of property, creating a lake fringe wetland. The estimated width
of emergent vegetation is greater than one (1) foot and comprises more than 2,500 square feet.
5.0 Conclusion
It is the conclusion of this review that because a lake fringe wetland found waterward of the subject property
bulkhead comprises more than 2,500 square feet and the lake is known to contain fish populations, the lake
fringe wetland qualifies as a regulated Category II wetland criteria as described in FWCC 22-1357 (Wetland
Categories and Standard Buffers), specifically FWCC 22-135 7.(2). a (see Section 4). This lake fringe wetland
would require a standard 100-foot wide buffer.
The review of previous data and site assessment was conducted using the best available scientific information
and methodologies and the best professional judgment of Grette Associates staff biologists. It should be
recognized that delineation of wetland boundaries is an inexact science and different individuals and agencies
may have differing opinions on exact boundaries.
GRETTE ASSOCIATES, LLC
y
James H. Carsner, PWS
Senior Biologist
WENATCHEE
509-663-6300
Fax 509-664-1882
151 S. WORTHEN ST. STE. 101 • WENATCHEE, WA 98801
TACOMA
253-573-9300
Fax 253-573-9321
2111 NORTH 30TH STREET • TACOMA, WA 98403
FILE
CITY OF
�. Federal
February 26, 2008
William Eichholtz
33049 38`i' Avenue South
Federal Way, WA 98001
CITY HALL
33325 8th Avenue South
y Mailing Address: PO Box 9718
Federal Way, WA 98063-9718
(253) 835-7000
www.cityoffederalway.com
RE: File #08-100196-00-AD; EICHHOLTZ WETLAND VERIFICATION
33049 38'h Avenue South, Federal Way
Dear Mr. Eichholtz:
On January 14, 2008, the City of Federal Way received your request for wetland basic review service
regarding the existence of a Category I wetland on the above -referenced property. The City's wetland
inventory has designated a portion of your property a Category I wetland. Pursuant to Federal Way City Code
(FWCC) 22-1356, any development activity within 200 feet of wetland areas require the applicant to submit a
wetland report prepared by a qualified professional approved by the City. On February 14, 2008, James
Carsner, Senior Biologist from Grette Associates, performed an on -site analysis and submitted a technical
memorandum of the results. T
FINDINGS
Mr. Cartier's analysis did find the existence of a Category I wetland as defined by FWCC 22-1357(a)(1). The
specific finding for Mr. Carver's conclusion is as follows: "this wetland area would be considered part of a
significant habitat (Habitat Conservation Area) by being within an area listed as Waters of the State (WAC
173-20-360). This would qualify this wetland as a Category I." Mr. Carsner further stated that "[i]t is the
conclusion of this review that the wetland is a Category I and the standard 200-foot-wide wetland buffer would
extend landward of the bulkhead as required by FWCC 22-1332 — Setback areas."
The intended site improvements, in which you met with the City's Development Review Committee (DRC)
staff to discuss December 20, 2007, are now subject to State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). Those
improvements were the short subdivision of one existing single-family residential lot into two single-family
residential lots and exterior improvements to the existing single-family residence. The 2008 SEPA checklist
with project fee is $903.50. This fee is in addition, but not limited to, the City's short subdivision, substantial
shoreline development permit, and concurrency administrative fees.
CLOSING
Please find the enclosed information regarding SEPA environmental review. The preapplication conference
that you attended December 20, 2007, is valid for one year. If you have any questions regarding the
information in this letter, please contact me at 253-835-2638 or matt.herrera@cityoffederalway.com.
Sincerely,
Matthew Herrera
Associate Planner
enc: Grette Associates Technical Memorandum Bulletin #050 `Environmental Checklist'
Doc. LD. 44312
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RECEIVED BY
DEVELOPMENT EPARfMEN
CITY Or _ ••-•��r�
Federal Way
Date:
FEB 0 6 2008
CITY OF FEDERAL WAY
WETLANDS CONSULTANT AUTHORIZATION FORM
January 16, 2008
City: City of Federal Way
Department of Community Development Services
PO Box 9718
Federal Way, WA 98063-9718
Consultant: Matthew Boyle
Grette Associates
2111 North 30th Street
Tacoma, WA 98403
Project: Eichholtz Short Plat — Wetland Status Verification and Delineation
File No.: 08-100196-00-AD
Project Proponent: Bill Eichholtz
33049 38th Avenue South
Federal Way, WA 98001
Parcel #614360-0155
253-224-6851
Project Planner: Matthew Herrera, Associate Planner (253-835-2638)
Documents Provided:
o Wetland Review Basic Service Request
o Map indicating Category I wetland according to Federal Way wetland
inventory.
o Wetland Inventory Field Form
Task Scope: Background: According to the Federal Way Critical Areas Map, the above -
referenced site contains a Category I wetland in addition to being located on
the shore of North Lake. Federal Way City Code (FWCC) 22-1357 limits
improvement activity within a 200-foot buffer of Category I wetlands. The
proponent would like to make improvements to the existing house and
subdivide the parcel. Proponent maintains no wetland exists on or within 200
feet of property.
Grette Associates is requested to perform the following tasks.
1. Verify the existence of Category I wetland as defined in FWCC 22-
1357, Article XIV, "Critical Areas," Division 7, "Regulated
Wetlands" within 200 feet of subject property.
2. If wetland does exist, provide d€I-i v.- apart, and identify) r:
wetland category. a' E �„ J ed J.
Task Cost: Not to exceed S 1050.00 without a prior written amendment to this Task
Authorization. This amount is based on the City's flat fee for `Wetland and
Stream Review Basic Service.' The proponent would like to make
improvements to the existing house and subdivide the parcel.
Acceptance:
City of Federal Way (Planner)
— r
(Consultant)
(Project Proponent)
Date
Date
Date
Doc. [ D. 43765
CITY OF
�. Federal Way
January 17, 2008
Matthew Boyle
Grette Associates
2111 North 30'h Street
Tacoma., WA 98403
FILE
CITY HALL
33325 8th Avenue South
Mailing Address: PO Box 9718
Federal Way, WA 98063-9718
(253) 835-7000
www.cityoffederalway.com
RE: File #08-100196-00-AD; AUTHORIZATION TO PROCEED
Eichholtz Wetland Status Verification and Delineation, 33049 381' Ave. S., Federal Way
Dear Mr. Boyle:
The purpose of this letter is to authorize the services of Grette Associates in verification of the wetland
status, categorization and delineation for the Eichholtz property, tax parcel 614360-0155.
Authorization to Proceed
On January 14, 2008, Bill Eichholtz formally requested a wetland review basic service. A copy of the Mr.
Eichholtz request is enclosed with the Wetlands Consultant Authorization Form. At this time, funds in the
amount of $1,050.00 have been received by the City. Please sign and return a copy of the enclosed
wetland consultant task authorization. A final copy signed by the applicant will be forwarded to your
attention.
Please consider this letter as an authorization to proceed with your review of Mr. Eichholtz property as
detailed in the City's January 16, 2008 Authorization Form.
I can be reached at 253-835-2638 if you have any questions about this project request.
Sincerely,
0 k
Matthew Herrera
Associate Planner
enc: Wetland Consultant Authorization Form signed by City
Wetland and Stream Review Basic Service Form
Vicinity Map
City of Federal Way Wetland Inventory Form — Wetland #16-21-04-189
Doc. LA 43772
N
City of Federal Way
Wetland Inventory Field Form
Wetland Number 1/4 SecYTwn/Rng
Location (address/cross-streets) Ala r F y�� „a[�clS� �w �y S
Team Members— /YZ /11 Date Field Check::
Base Map #: _ 7� bq 4 S-S � Windshield Acces ite Acc s/ Site Not Accessed
FIELD DATA
Cnwarriin Class
Dominant SDD
% total W L
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Notable Wildlife Features Cn i,-),q�1-
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Snags:#'s 6" 1�2" 2-.24" Heights:
L�
Inlet present N; width ` flow N / Outlet present:&N; width 3 �-4"'.404 N
None Observed None Observed
Sourcesp/N)
strea culvert: (diam) sheet flow floodplain seeps
Human Disturbances: pv5i jcn a I �G s o // 5 how �l � l a w y/u P
o-F' c.�q-�� G►� S�'��a� �Ya� O�C�S.
Buffer Conditions: AG/60 ,n,'--e-j 4'C5.4
OFFICE DATA 964.
NRCS Soil Unit: A d WL Rating
Approximate Size:
500 tos 2,500 sq.ft z 1 acre, s 2 acre
z 2,500 sf, s '/2 acre z 2 acre, s 5 acre
z'/2 acre, s 1 acre (:Z!acre
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