20-104332-UP-Critical Areas Assessment April 16 2016HABITAT TECHNOLOGIES
CRITICAL AREAS ASSESSMENT
AND STREAM CORRIDOR BUFFER
ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM FOR THE
DEVELOPMENT OF A SINGLE FAMILY
HOMESITE
PARCEL 7202500070
South 293rd Street
City of Federal Way, King County, Washington
This document has been revised to incorporate changes to the City of Federal
Way's Critical Areas Ordinance effective June 30, 2015
This document also incorporates modifications pursuant to City of Federal Way
review comments dated March 24, 2016
prepared for
Ms. Irina Dmitroychuk
prepared by
HABITAT TECHNOLOGIES
P.O. Box 1088
Puyallup, Washington 98371-1088
253-845-5119
AUG11 2016
CITY OF FCEDS RAL WAy
APRIL 5, 2016
wetlands, streams, fisheries, wildlife — mitigation and permitting solutions
P.O. Box 1088, Puyallup, Washington 98371
voice 253-845-5119 contact@habitattechnologies.net
INTRODUCTION
This document details the culmination of activities and onsite evaluations undertaken to
complete an onsite critical areas assessment (i.e. wetlands, surface water drainages,
critical fish and wildlife habitats) of a presently vacant parcel (Parcel 720250070 -
project site) located along South 293d Street within the City of Federal Way, King
County, Washington (part of Section 5, Township 21 North, Range 04 East, W.M.)
(Figure 1). Included within this document is a buffer enhancement program to ensure
that the development of this homesite does not adversely impact the biological or
physical functions of an onsite Type Ns Stream. The project site was located within a
residential community and accessed via South 293`d Street - an existing paved public
roadway. The project site had been modified by prior land uses actions, the
development of South 293rd Street, the development of adjacent single family
homesites, and the placement of public utilities. An intermittent drainage corridor (a City
of Federal Way Type Ns Stream) was located within a ravine along the eastern
boundary of the project site. Immediately north (downstream) of the project site the
surface water within this drainage corridor was captured within a culvert and taken
downslope to the north and then to the east.
The onsite assessment and evaluation of critical areas within and immediately adjacent
to the project site was completed following the methods and procedures defined in the
Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (1987 Manual) with the 2010 Regional
Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Western
Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region (2010 Supplement); the guidance provided for
the Washington State Wetlands Identification and Delineation Manual (Wash Manual);
the State of Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) Forest Practice
Rules (WAC 222-16-030); and the City of Federal Way Title 19 - Critical Areas
Ordinance. Additional assessment was completed during October 2015 to ensure
consistency with modifications to the City of Federal Way Title 19 - Critical Areas
Ordinance which became effective June 30, 2015.
The evaluation and characterization of onsite and adjacent critical areas (i.e. wetlands,
surface water drainages, wildlife habitats) is a vital element in land use planning. The
goal of this approach is to ensure that present and proposed planned site development,
to include the establishment of protective buffers, does not result in adverse
environmental impacts to identified wetlands or other critical areas.
PROJECT SITE DESCRIPTION
The project site was vacant, approximately 9,622 square feet (0.22 acres) in total size,
irregular in shape, and located within an urban residential area dominated by similarly
sized lots with existing single family homesites. The project site was vacant and the
western portion of the project site had been managed to control the establishment of
Himalayan blackberries (Rubus procera). The eastern portion of the project site was
dominated by a ravine that included an intermittent surface water drainage. The ravine
area was dominated by a mixed forest plant community that had undergone prior
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clearing actions. A public sewer utility corridor was present along the northern
boundary of the project site. In addition, prior land use actions had installed a capture
system to covey the seasonal surface water from within the intermittent drainage
generally around the residential community located to the north and downslope of the
northeastern corner of the project site.
Directions to Project Site: From northbound on Pacific Highway South through the
City of Federal Way turn west onto 320th Street South and continue to 1 st Way South.
Turn north onto 1st Way South and continue to South 293"t Street. Turn east onto
South 293rd Street and continue to the project site.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
NATIONAL WETLAND INVENTORY
The National Wetland Inventory (NWI) mapping completed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service was reviewed as a part of this assessment (Figure 2). This mapping resource
did not identify any wetlands or surface water drainages within the project site.
STATE OF WASHINGTON PRIORITY HABITATS AND SPECIES
The State of Washington Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) Mapping was reviewed as
a part of this assessment (Figure 3). This mapping resource did not identify any
wetlands or surface water drainages within or immediately adjacent to the project site.
This mapping resource did identify a surface water drainage well offsite to the east.
STATE OF WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE
The State of Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) mapping was
reviewed as a part of this assessment. This mapping resource did not identify any
streams within the project site (Figure 4). This mapping resource did identify a stream
offsite to east of the project site. This offsite stream was identified to provide habitats
for coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch).
STATE OF WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
The State of Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) mapping was
reviewed as a part of this assessment (Figure 5). This mapping resource did not
identify any streams within the project site. This mapping resource identified a stream
offsite to the east as noted in the WDFW mapping above. This offsite stream was
further identified as a Type F Water (fish -bearing) and included a Type U Water
(unknown) to the east of the project site.
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KING COUNTY MAPPING
The King County inventory mapping was reviewed as a part of this assessment (Figure
6). This mapping resource did not identify any wetlands or streams within the project
site.
SOILS MAPPING
The soil mapping inventory completed by the Soils Conservation Service was reviewed
as a part of this assessment (Figure 7). This mapping resource identified the soil
throughout the project site as Alderwood and Kitsap soils — very steep (AkF). This soil
series is not as listed as a "hydric" soils.
WASHINGTON STATE NATURAL HERITAGE PROGRAM
The Washington State Natural Heritage Program was reviewed as a part of this
assessment. This resource did not identify any high quality, undisturbed wetland or a
wetland that supports state Threatened, Endangered, or Sensitive plant species within
the Section/Township/Range of the project site.
ONSITE ANALYSIS
CRITERIA FOR CRITICAL AREAS IDENTIFICATION
The City of Federal Way has identified that the following areas of the environment are
designated as critical areas pursuant to RCW 36.70A.030(5) (14.30.010):
a) Critical aquifer recharge areas and wellhead protection areas;
b) Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas;
c) Frequently flooded areas;
d) Geologically hazardous areas;
e) Regulated wetlands; and
f) Streams.
For the purpose of this document only fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas,
wetlands, and streams were assessed.
Wetlands: Wetlands are transitional areas between aquatic and upland habitats. In
general terms, wetlands are lands where the extent and duration of saturation with
water is the primary factor determining the nature of soil development and the types of
plant and animal communities living in the soil and on its surface (Cowardin, et al.,
1979). Wetlands are generally defined within land use regulations as "areas that are
inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient
to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation
typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions" (1987 Manual). Wetlands exhibit
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three essential characteristics, all of which must be present for an area to meet the
established criteria within the 1987 Manual. These essential characteristics are:
1. Hydrophytic Vegetation: A predominance of plants that are typically
adapted for life in saturated soils.
2. Hydric Soil: A soil that is saturated, flooded, or ponded long enough during
the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper horizons.
3. Wetland Hydrology: Permanent or periodic inundation, or soil saturation to
the surface, at least seasonally.
Streams: A stream (aquatic area) is generally defined as a location where surface
waters produce a defined channel or bed. A defined channel or bed is typically an area
which demonstrates clear evidence of the passage of water and includes, but not limited
to, bedrock channels, gravel beds, sand and silt beds, and defined channel swales. A
stream need not contain water year-round. A stream typically does not include irrigation
ditches, canals, storm or surface water run-off devices, or other artificial watercourses
unless the constructed watercourse conveys a stream which naturally occurred prior to
the construction of such watercourse.
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservations Areas: "Fish and wildlife habitat
conservation areas" are defined by the City of Federal Way as the management of land
for maintaining species in suitable habitats within their natural geographic distribution so
that isolated subpopulations are not created. Habitat conservation areas include but are
not limited to such areas as.
a) Areas with which endangered, threatened, and sensitive species have a primary
association;
b) Habitats and species of local importance;
c) Commercial and recreational shellfish areas;
d) Kelp and eelgrass beds; herring and smelt spawning areas;
e) Naturally occurring ponds under 20 acres and their submerged aquatic beds that
provide fish and wildlife habitat;
f) Waters of the state;
g) Lakes, ponds and streams planted with game fish by a governmental or tribal
entity;
h) State natural area preserves and natural resource conservation areas; or
i) Streams.
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STUDY METHODS
Habitat Technologies completed a series of onsite assessments between July and
September 2014. Additional onsite assessment was completed during October 2015.
In addition, Habitat Technologies has completed similar assessments for parcels
located within the general area of the project site. The objective of this evaluation was
to define and delineate potential critical areas (wetlands, drainage corridors, and critical
habitats) that may be present within or immediately adjacent to the project area. Onsite
activities were completed in accordance with criteria and procedures established in the
1987 !Manual with 2010 Supplement, guidance provided for the Wash. (Manual, the City
of Federal Way Title 19, and the WDNR Forest Practice Rules.
FIELD OBSERVATION
The project site was accessed via an existing paved public roadway — South 293`d
Street - that formed the western boundary of the project site. The entire project site had
been impacted by prior land use actions to include prior forest harvest, prior clearing
and grading, the placement of imported fill materials, the placement of public facilities,
and the development of adjacent parcels. The project site was located within an urban
residential area dominated by similarly sized lots with existing single family homesites.
The area offsite to the east was vacant and dominated by a mixed forest plant
community.
Plant Communities
The plant community throughout the entire project site had been modified by prior land
use actions, onsite and offsite. The western portion of the project site had been cleared
and somewhat leveled as a part of the development of South 293`d Street, the
development of adjacent homesites, and the placement of public utilities. The plant
community throughout the western portion of the project site includes areas of dense
thickest of blackberries intermixed with areas dominated by a variety of grasses, herbs,
shrubs, and sapling trees. Observed species included sapling red alder (Alnus rubra),
sapling black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa), Himalayan blackberry (Rubus procera),
evergreen blackberry (Rubus laciniatus), Pacific blackberry (Rubus ursinus), Scots
broom (Cytisus scoparius), bracken fern (Pteridium aquilium), Canadian thistle (Cirsium
arvensis), bluegrass (Poa spp.), nettle (Urtica dioica), English plantain (Plantago major),
cats ear (Hypochaeris glabra), trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), and reed canarygrass
(Phalaris arundinacea). This plant community was identified as non-hydrophytic in
character (i.e. typical of non -wetlands).
The plant community within the eastern portion of the project site was dominated by a
mixture of trees and shrubs and appeared to extend offsite to the east. Observed
species included Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), Western red cedar (Thuja
plicata), red alder, black cottonwood, Pacific madrone (Arbutus menziesii), cherry
(Prunus spp.), Sitka willow (Salix sitchensis), Himalayan blackberry, evergreen
blackberry, reed canarygrass, rose (Rosa spp.), snowberry (Symphoricarpus albus),
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vine maple (Ater circinatum), holly (Ilex spp.), hazelnut (Corylus cornuta), snowberry
(Symphoricarpus albus), sword fern (Polystichum munitum), salal (Gaultheria shallon),
and thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus). This plant community as indentified as non-
hydrophytic in character.
An intermittent drainage corridor was identified within a ravine in the eastern portion of
the project site. The area of active seasonal surface flow within this corridor was
generally lacking of a plant community. However, a scattering of lady fern (Athyrium
filix-femina) were present along the edge of active seasonal surface flow (see photos).
OFFSITE: The plant community within the parcel directly to the north was similar to the
plant community within the western portion of the project site. As noted above, the plant
community within the area to the east was similar to the forested plant community within
the eastern portion of the project site. The plant community offsite to the south was
managed as a part of the existing single family homesite.
Hydrology
The majority of the project site appeared to drain moderately well and did not exhibit
seasonal hydrology patterns typical of wetland areas.
An intermittent surface water drainage corridor was located within the bottom of the
ravine within the eastern portion of the project site. This corridor appeared to originate
offsite to the south/southeast within a forested area and to continue generally northward
through the eastern portion of the project site. At the northeast corner of the project site
prior land use actions had installed a surface water capture system that conveyed
seasonal surface water to the north and then to the northeast. This surface water
capture system was located in the area of the buried public utility corridor.
• Soils
As identified at representative sample plots throughout the project site the onsite soil
appeared to drain moderately well and did not exhibit field indicators of "hydric" soil
characteristics. The soil throughout the western portion of the project site had been
modified by prior land use actions to include clearing, grading, and the import of fill
materials. The onsite soil exhibited a texture of gravelly loam to very gravelly loam.
• Wildlife Species and Habitats
The project site had been modified and manipulated by prior and ongoing land use
activities. The parcel directly to the east was dominated by a mixed forest plant
community. The areas offsite to the north, west, and south were dominated by
residential development.
Wildlife Observations: The project site provided limited habitats for a variety of wildlife
species. The--majorityof the-witdtife,species-observed were atso noted to be using
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offsite habitats. The project site did not provide habitats for fish species or suitable
spawning habitats for amphibians.
Wildlife species observed or that would be expected onsite or within the immediate
vicinity of the project site based on existing habitats would include tree swallow
(Tachycineta bicolor), violet green shallow (Tachycineta thallassina), song sparrow
(Melospiza melodia), dark eyed junco (Junco hyemalis), American crow (Corvus
brachynchos), starling (Sturnus vulgaris), American robin (Turdus migratorius), bushtit
(Psaltriparus minimus), house finch (Passer domesticus), Steller's jay (Cyanocitta
stellen), black -capped chickadee (Parus atricapillus), brown creeper (Certhia
americana), red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), Northern flicker (Colaptes auratus),
pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus), hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus), purple
finch (Carpodacus purpureus), black tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus), coyote (Canis
latrans), opossum (Didelphis virginianus), eastern squirrel (Sciurus griseus), striped
skunk (Mephitis mephitis), raccoon (Procyon lotor), eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus
floridanus), deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus),
shrew (Sorex spp.), bats (Myotis spp.), common garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis),
and Pacific treefrogs (Hyla regilla).
Movement Corridors: The project site has been modified by prior land uses and was
generally bound by existing urban developments. The movement of wildlife appeared
restricted by the development of adjacent homesites and residential developments, and
both public and private roadways. The project site is within the seasonal migratory
pathways for a variety of passerine birds.
State Priority Species: Priority species require protective measures for their survival
due to their population status, sensitivity to habitat alteration, and/or recreational,
commercial, or tribal importance.
Game Species: "Game species" are regulated by the State of Washington
through recreational hunting bag limits, harvest seasons, and harvest area
restrictions. Observed or documented "game species" within and adjacent to the
project site included black -tailed deer.
State Candidate: State Candidate species are presently under review by the
State of Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) for possible listing
as endangered, threatened, or sensitive. One State Candidate species - pileated
woodpecker — may use the habitats provided offsite to the east.
State Monitored: State Monitored species are native to Washington but require
habitat that has limited availability, are indicators of environmental quality, require
further assessment, have unresolved taxonomy, may be competing with other
species of concern, or have significant popular appeal. No critical habitat was
identified onsite for State Monitored species. However, a single State Monitored
species — great blue heron — has been documented offsite along the shoreline of
Puget Sound.
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State Sensitive: State Sensitive species are native to Washington, are
vulnerable to decline, and are likely to become endangered or threatened
throughout a significant portion of its range without cooperative management or
removal of threats. No critical habitat was identified onsite for State Sensitive
species. However, a single State Sensitive species — bald eagle — has been
documented offsite along the shoreline of Puget Sound.
State Threatened: State Threatened species are species native to the state of
Washington and are likely to become an endangered species within the
foreseeable future throughout a significant portion of its range within the state
without cooperative management or removal of threats. Neither the project site
nor areas within the immediate vicinity of the project site were not observed to
provide critical habitats for State Threatened species.
State Endangered: State endangered species are species native to the state of
Washington and are seriously threatened with extinction throughout all or a
significant portion of its range within the state. Neither the project site nor areas
within the immediate vicinity of the project site were not observed to provide
critical habitats for State Endangered species.
Federally Listed Species: The project site has not been documented to provide
critical habitats for federally listed species. A single, federally listed species of concern
— bald eagle — has been documented to use the habitats associated with the shoreline
of Puget Sound. A second species of concern — coho salmon — is identified to use the
habitats associated with a stream located offsite to the east.
CRITICAL AREAS DETERMINATION
Onsite critical areas assessment activities were completed in accordance with criteria
and procedures established in the 1987 Manual with 2010 Supplement, guidance
provided for the Wash. Manual, City of Federal Way Title 19, and the WDNR Forest
Practice Rules. This assessment identified that no portion of the project site exhibited
characteristics associated with a wetland.
This assessment did identify an intermittent surface water drainage corridor within the
eastern portion of the project site. This surface water drainage was identified as not
providing direct habitats for fish species and was separated from downstream habitats
by gradient, a surface water capture and conveyance system (buried culverts), and prior
land use actions. However, the seasonal flow from this corridor appeared to enter Cold
Creek in the area adjacent to the Lakehaven Treatment Facility offsite to the
north/northeast via a system of buried culverts.
As noted in the initial October 2014 report this intermittent surface water drainage
corridor appeared best defined as a City of Federal Way Miner Sirearri and included a
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few wetland indicators waterward of the ordinary high water mark. However, with the
City's modification of Title 19 which became effective June 30, 2015 this intermittent
surface water drainage corridor would be defined as a Type Ns Stream (a seasonal
non -fish habitat stream). The standard buffer for a City of Federal Way Type Ns Stream
is 35 feet measured perpendicular to the edge of the ordinary high water mark.
The City of Federal Way Type Ns Stream would also be identified as a City of Federal
Way Habitat Conservation Area. This stream does not provide direct habitats for
federally or state listed endangered, threatened, and sensitive species and does not
provide direct habitats for species of local importance. However, this stream would be
defined as a "Water of the State," and as a "Stream" pursuant to provisions of the City of
Federal Way Title 19.
SELECTED DEVELOPMENT ACTION
The Selected Development Action for Parcel 720250070 focuses on the planning and
development of a new single family homesite within the western portion of the project
site consistent with the City of Federal Way Comprehensive Plan and local zoning.
The Selected Development Action would avoid any direct impact to the identified Mioor-"
Stream. However, because of the limited size of the existing parcel and the location of
the identified City of Federal Way-M4myrStream in the eastern portion of the parcel the
development of the new single family homesite would require the unavoidable
encroachment into the outer, western portion of the standard 35-foot City of Federal
Way buffer associated with the identified Type Ns Stream (see Site Plan).
As outlined in City of Federal Way 19.145.330 (effective June 30, 2015) the City may
approve a request for an intrusion into a stream buffer using the Process III in Chapter
19.65. Stream buffer intrusions may be permitted with a buffer enhancement plan and
that the established final buffer would function as an equivalent or higher level that the
standard buffer. These functions include habitat, water quality, stormwater retention
capabilities, groundwater recharge, and erosion protection. The City may approve a
stream buffer intrusion based on the following criteria:
(a) The action will not adversely affect water quality;
(b) The action will not adversely affect the existing quality of wildlife habitat within
the stream or setback area;
(c) The action will not adversely affect drainage or stormwater retention
capabilities;
(d) The action will not lead to unstable earth conditions nor create erosion
hazards;
(e) The action will not be materially detrimental to any other property in the area of
the subject property nor to the city as a whole, including the loss of
significant open space; and
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(f) The action is necessary for reasonable development of the subject property not
otherwise prohibited by the shoreline master program.
As presently outlined in the overall site development plan, all six (6) of the specific
criteria can be met as a part of the site development permitting package. In particular,
the required reduction of the standard buffer width is the minimum necessary for the
reasonable development of a new single family homesite within this irregularly shaped
parcel. In addition, the homesite development would retain the existing plant
community along the western and eastern sides of the identified minor stream, would
use the appropriate Best Management Practices to ensure no adversely affect onsite or
downstream water quality, would not adversely affect drainage or stormwater retention
capabilities of the project site, would not adversely affect the existing quality of the
habitat within the buffer reduction area, and would not be materially detrimental to other
properties in the area.
STREAM BUFFER ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM
As a part of the development of the new single family homesite, the buffer area
associated with the western side of the Type Ns Stream shall be enhanced through the
removal of invasive species; the removal of existing garbage and yard waste; and the
planting of native shrubs to provide terrestrial and aquatic habitats, as well as to provide
erosion control protection. The overall GOAL of this Stream Buffer Enhancement
Program is to enhance the plant community within the western side of the buffer area
adjacent to the homesite development area. To meet this GOAL the following actions
shall be implemented:
Existing invasive shrubs (i.e. blackberries), along with an assortment of existing
garbage within the retained stream buffer shall be removed prior to planting
activities. The invasive shrubs shall be removed using hand -methods that also
removal as much of the root structure as possible without adversely impacting
the soil profile. All removed plants and garbage shall be taken to an approved
offsite disposal site. Upon invasive plant and garbage removal jute mapping
shall be properly placed throughout the enhancement areas for erosion control.
2. The established western stream buffer shall be planted with a variety of native
shrubs common to the local area and which provide a variety of habitats for local
wildlife. Plant placement shall use the "pit plant" method which would place each
plant within a planting pit approximately twice the size of the existing rootball.
The pit with plant would then be re -filled with a mixture of 50% native soil and
50% plant material compost. Following installation a 2-inch layer of well
composted mulch shall placed around the base of each plant. Each plant shall
also be flagged for identification during subsequent invasive species control
actions.
3. All planting actions and plant placements shall be completed at
the direction of the project biologist.
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4. The outer boundary of the established western stream buffer shall be fenced with
a two -rail, split -rail fence (or other fence approved by the City) and posted with
standard City of Federal Way buffer boundary signs to limit human intrusions.
5. Upon the completion of onsite planting activities an implementation report shall
be submitted to the City of Federal Way. Following acceptance of the
implementation report by the City of Federal Way, the property owner shall
undertake a five-year monitoring and maintenance program to ensure the
survival of the planted trees and shrubs and the establishment of a viable buffer
plant community.
To achieve the defined GOAL, the following OBJECTIVE and PERFORMANCE
CRITERIA have are defined:
Objective A. The established western stream buffer area shall exhibit an enhanced
scrub vegetation class within five years following initial planting.
Performance Criterion #A1: As defined by plant counts 100% of the shrubs
initially planted shall exhibit survival through the end of the first growing season
following initial planting.
Performance Criterion #A2: As defined by plant counts 80% of the shrubs
initially planted shall exhibit survival through the end of the second, third, fourth,
and fifth growing seasons following initial planting.
Performance Criterion #A3: As defined by aerial coverage non-native shrub
species (blackberries, Scot's broom) shall not exceed 10% at the end of the first,
second, third, fourth, or five year monitoring periods following initial planting.
SELECTED PLANTS
The plants selected for the buffer areas shall be obtained as nursery stock. These
selected species are native and commonly occur in the local area. The plant species
prescribed are selected to increase plant diversity, increase wildlife habitats, and
enhance the buffer environment. Consistent with comments provided by City of Federal
Way review (Grette Assoc. letter of March 24, 2016) groundcover plants have been
added to help stabilize the surface soil following blackberry removal and to provide
additional habitat value.
NUMBER
COMMON NAME (ID) - SCIENTIFIC NAME
SIZE
10
Vine maple (ACC) — Acer circinatum
1 gal
10
Oceanspra (HOD) — Holodiscus discolor
1 gal
10
Hazelnut (COC) — Corylus cornuta
1 gal
10
Flowering currant (RIS) — Ribes sanguineum
1 gal
10
Black twinber (LOI) — Lonicera involucrata
1 gal
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10
Red osier dogwood COS — Cornus stolonifera
40*
Kinnikinnick (ARU) — Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
425*
Salal (GAS — Gaultheria shallon
q
25*
Oregon rape BEN — Berberis nervosa
25*
Common sword fern (POM) — Polystichum munitum
1 gal
175
TOTAL
* added ground cover plants
IMPLEMENTATION INSPECTION
Essential to the success of the stream buffer enhancement program is the accurate
inspection of onsite activities immediately prior to and during the initial planting. These
activities include pre -implementation site inspection, onsite inspection and technical
direction during planting activities, and post -planting site inspection and evaluation. The
pre -implementation site inspection allows the property owner and the project biologist to
evaluate and, if necessary, undertake minor adjustments in the onsite implementation
steps. These steps include analysis of project site elevation features, project
sequencing and timing, unforeseen required minor modifications to the original
establishment plan, and the establishment of environmental protections (silt fences,
etc.) required during implementation. The project biologist shall perform implementation
oversight and address minor unforeseen implementation difficulties to assure that the
intent of the stream buffer enhancement program is met.
The project biologist shall also be responsible for ensuring that the species and sizes of
native plants selected and noted within the planting plan are utilized during
implementation. If selected native species become unavailable, the project biologist
shall consult with the City of Federal Way for substitute plant species to assure that the
intent of the compensatory mitigation program is met. Post -implementation site
inspection/ evaluation shall include the preparation of a "record -drawings" which shall
be submitted to the City of Federal Way and along with an implementation report and
photo documentation.
PROJECT MONITORING
Following the successful completion of the stream buffer enhancement program a five-
year monitoring and evaluation program shall be undertaken. The purpose of this
monitoring program is to ensure the success of the selected enhancement actions as
measured by an established set of performance criteria. This monitoring shall also
provide valuable information on the effectiveness of enhancement procedures.
STANDARDS OF SUCCESS
The evaluation of the success of the stream buffer enhancement program shall be
based on a 100% count of desirable shrub. The defined performance criteria shall be
applied at the times of yearly monitoring. Shrubs shall be visually evaluated to
determine the rate of survivorship, health, and vigor of each plant.
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1. As a part of each monitoring period the project biologist shall count the
number of live plants which were planted within the enhanced buffer. Plants
shall be identified to species and observations of general plant condition
(i.e., plant health, amount of new growth) are to be recorded for each plant.
2. As a part of each monitoring period the project biologist shall assess the
number of undesirable invasive plants and estimate the aerial coverage (as
if the observer were looking straight down from above) of these invasive
plants. Undesirable plants include blackberries, Scot's broom, tansy
ragwort, reed -can arygrass, and plants listed_ in the Washington State
Noxious Weed List.
3. As a part of each monitoring period the project biologist shall count the
number of desirable "volunteer" plants and estimate the aerial coverage of
these plants within the enhanced buffer.
4. As a part of each monitoring period the project biologist shall take
photographs that show the entire stream buffer enhancement program area.
During the five-year monitoring period the photos shall be taken in the same
direction and at the same location to provide a series of photos. These
photos shall show plant growth, plant species, and plant coverage.
5. Upon the completion of each annual monitoring period the project biologist
shall prepare a letter report defining the onsite observations and overall
plant survival. Each report shall include photo documentation of the
enhanced buffer. Each report shall be provided to the City of Federal Way.
MONITORING
YEAR
I PLANT COMMUNITY MONITORING
SUBMITTAL OF MONITORING
REPORT
YEAR-1
On or about Ap ril 15,
201 x+1
On or about Sept. 15, 201 x+1
Report due Oct. 7,
201 x+1
YEAR-2
On or about A ril 15,
201 x+2
On or about Sept. 15,
201 x+2
Report due Oct. 7,
201 x+2
YEAR-3
On or about Sept. 15,
201 x+3
Report due Oct. 7,
201 x+3
YEAR-4
On or about Sept. 15,
201 x+4
Report due Oct. 7,
201 x+4
YEAR-5
On or about Sept. 15,
201 x+5
Report due Oct. 7,
201 x+5
201 x represents the implementation year.
VEGETATION MAINTENANCE PLAN
Maintenance of the stream buffer enhancement program may be required to assure the
long-term health and welfare of the associated environmental functions. Such
maintenance shall be identified during the monitoring period and undertaken only
following discussion and coordination with the City of Federal Way. The overall
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objective is to establish an undisturbed plant community that does not require
maintenance. Activities may include, but are not limited to, the removal of invasive non-
native vegetation and the irrigation of selected areas. Established maintenance
activities include the removal of any trash within the stream buffer.
REMOVAL OF INVASIVE NON-NATIVE VEGETATION
As a contingency, should the removal of invasive non-native vegetation become
necessary, the project team shall contact the City of Federal Way to establish and
define specific actions to be taken. Resultant contingency plan activities shall be
implemented when the ongoing vegetation monitoring program indicates that plants
listed in the Washington State Noxious Weed List, blackberries, reed canarygrass, or
Scot's broom are becoming dominant in the community or exceed 10% of the aerial
coverage of the planting areas. The following maintenance program shall also be
enacted to limit the re-establishment of invasive species. In addition, during all removal
actions the removal crew shall ensure the continued effectiveness of the jute matting
and repair/replace all non -effective matting.
MONITORING
FIRST REMOVAL
SECOND REMOVAL
THIRD REMOVAL
YEAR
ACTION
ACTION
ACTION
YEAR-1
On or about April 20,
On or about May 30,
On or about July 15,
201x+1
201x+1
201x+1
YEAR-2
On or about April 20,
On or about May 30,
On or about July 15,
201x+2
201x+2
201x+2
YEAR-3
On or about April 20,
On or about July 15,
201x+3
201x+4
YEAR-4
On or about April 20,
On or about July 15,
201x+4
201x+4
YEAR-5
On or about April 20,
On or about July 15,
201x+5
201x+5
* Based on a year X implementation.
CONTINGENCY PLAN
As a contingency, should the proposed stream buffer enhancement program fail to meet
the performance criteria, the landowner shall undertake the required remedial actions.
Where plant survival is the failing component, the project proponent shall replant and
ensure the success of this second planting which shall be held to the same standard of
success as measured by performance criteria and monitoring processes.
Where non-native, invasive vegetation exceeds 10% aerial coverage the project
proponent shall undertake removal actions. Such removal actions shall be completed
using hand tools or pulling the plants by hand to remove the invasive vegetation without
disrupting the soil profile. All cut or pulled vegetation shall be removed from the
mitigation area and disposed in an approved location. Herbicides shall only be used
following approval by the City of Federal Way. All herbicide application shall be
completed by a licensed professional. Should additional remedial actions be required,
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the landowner shall meet with the City of Federal Way to establish and define actions to
be taken to meet the desired goal of this stream buffer enhancement program.
TEMPORARY IRRIGATION
The landowner shall ensure that a minimum of one (1) inch of water is supplied each
week to the restore buffer area between May 1 and October 15 for a least the first two
years following initial planting. The calculated amount of required water shall include
both natural rainfall and temporary irrigation. The need for additional years of irrigation
shall be determined based on site conditions and overall plant survival. The amount of
water supplied to the mitigation -area shall -be -increased at -the direction of the -City of
Federal Way or if onsite monitoring defines such a need.
A temporary irrigation system may be installed at the time of buffer planting. The
temporary irrigation system may utilize above ground sprinklers, a drip system, or a
manual hose system. The final selected irrigation system shall be detailed within the
implementation report following the planting of the buffer area.
FINANCIAL GUARANTEE
Financial guarantees shall be provided for this project and shall be defined in two parts.
Part One (Implementation Guarantee) shall be associated with the initial onsite
compensation elements of the proposed buffer program. Part Two (Performance
Guarantee) shall be associated with the monitoring and reporting elements of the
proposed buffer program. These guarantees shall be held by the City of Federal Way
and be equal to 120% of the actual estimated costs for identified activities. This
increased percentage shall allow for adequate funds to be available as a contingency
should actions be required to meet the goals of these plans. The Implementation
Guarantee shall be deemed to be released by the City of Federal Way upon the
successful completion of the initial onsite buffer program elements and the acceptance
by the City of Federal Way. The Performance Guarantee shall be deemed to be
released upon meeting the established performance criteria and acceptance by the City
of Federal Way of the required reporting documents.
Implementation Guarantee
TASK
ASSOCIATED COST
Initial team meeting to define works areas and timing _
$ 250.00
Site preparation for planting buffer area (invasive species and
garbage removal: 4-person crew 3hrs plus disposal)
$ 300.00
175 shrubs and installation ($10/each)
$ 1,750.00
Split rail fence installation and buffer posting 64ft at $8/ft
$ 575.00
Jute mat placement
$ 455.00
Implementation report 3 hrs at $120/hr).
$ 360.00
SUB -TOTAL
$3,690.00
_
Required 20% Contingency
$ 738.00
IMPLEMENTATION GUARANTEE TOTAL
$ 4,428.00
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Performance Guarantee
TASK _ ASSOCIATED COST
Year -One onsite monitoring with expenses and travel $ 550.00
Two times for plants (4 hrs at $100/hr)
Annual report with photos 1.5 hrs at $100/hr
Year -Two onsite monitoring with expenses and travel $ 550.00
Two times for plants (4 hrs at $100/hr)
Annual report with photos (1.5 hrs at $100/hr)
Year -Three onsite monitoring with expenses and travel
One time for plants (2.5 hrs at $100/hr)
Annual report with photos (1 hrs at $100/hr)
Year -Four onsite monitoring with expenses and travel
One time for plants (2.5 hrs at $100/hr)
Annual report with photos (1 hrs at $100/hr)
Year -Five onsite monitoring with expenses and travel
One time for plants (2.5 hrs at $120/hr)
Annual report with photos (1 hrs at $120/hr)
Invasive species control program (3 time for years one and
two; 2 times years three, four, and five. 2 person crew 2 hrs
each visit with disposal)
Irrigation system set-up and water ears one and two)
SUB -TOTAL
Reauired 20% Continaencv
PERFORMANCE GUARANTEE TOTAL
STANDARD OF CARE
$ 350.00
$ 350.00
350.00
$ 1, 500.00
$ 300.00
$3,950.00
$ 790.00
$ 4,740.00
This document has been completed by Habitat Technologies for use by Ms. Irina
Dmitroychuk. Prior to extensive site planning the findings documented in this
document should be reviewed and verified by City of Federal Way. Habitat
Technologies has provided professional services that are in accordance with the degree
of care and skill generally accepted in the nature of the work accomplished. No other
warranties are expressed or implied. Habitat Technologies is not responsible for design
costs incurred before this document is approved by the appropriate resource and
permitting agencies.
Bryan W. Peck
Wetland Biologist
1rhomaJ D. Dewiliq
Thomas D. Deming, PWS
Habitat Technologies
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FIGURES
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REFERENCE LIST
Adamus, P.R., E.J. Clairain Jr., R.D. Smith, and R.E. Young. 1987. Wetland Evaluation
Technique (WET); Volume II: Methodology, Operational Draft Technical Report Y-87,
U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Mississippi.
Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of Wetlands
and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. Office of Biological Services, U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, FWS/OBS-79/31.
Environmental Laboratory. 1987. "Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual,"
Technical Report Y-87-1, US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg,
Miss.
Hitchcock, C.L., A. Cronquist. 1977. Flora of the Pacific Northwest. University of
Washington Press. Seattle, Washington.
Hruby, T. 2004. Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington.
Revised, Washington State Department of Ecology Publication #04-06-025.
Hruby, T. 2014. Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington:
2014 Update. Publication #14-06-029. Olympia, WA: Washington Department of
Ecology.
Reppert, R.T., W. Sigleo, E. Stakhiv, L. Messman, and C. Meyers. 1979. Wetland
Values - Concepts and Methods for Wetland Evaluation. Research Report 79-R1, U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, Institute for Water Resources, Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 2010. Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers
Wetland Delineation Manual: Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast Region, ed. J.S.
Wakeley, R.W. Lichvar, and C.V. Noble. ERDC/EL TR-08-13.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soils Conservation Service. Soils Survey of King
County Area Washington, February 1979.
Washington State Department of Ecology. 1997. Washington State Wetlands
Identification and Delineation Manual. Publication Number 96-94.
Washington State Department of Fisheries, Catalog of Washington Streams and
Salmon Utilization, Volume 1, 1
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PHOTOS
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View southward of the surface water drainage within the project site at the entry of the
surface water capture and conveyance system at the northeast corner of the project site.
View northward at the entry into the surface water capture and conveyance system at
the northeast corner of the project site.
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View northward of the surface water capture and conveyance system continuing offsite
to the north.
View southward at the northeast corner of the project site of the ravine and stream
corridor in the eastern portion of the project site.
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View northward from the southern boundary project site at the ravine and stream
corridor in the eastern portion of the project site.
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