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THE WETLAND CORPS
Wetland Delineation • Habitat Management Plans • Riparian Restoration • Mitigation • Biological Evaluation
PARCEL 12108-75-00070 WETLAND DELINEATION REPORT
AND BUFFER MITIGATION PLAN
Grapeview,Washington
Mason County
4, ✓J by
Prepared for:
Terrie Anderson U
Prepared by:
Lee Boad and Heather Lane
June 2017
PO Box 2854,Belfair,WA 98528 cell:36o-62o-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetlandcorps@hotmall.com
AV
THE WETLAND CORPS
Wetland Delineation • Habitat Management Plans • Riparian Restoration • Mitigation • Biological Evaluation
PARCEL 12108-75-00070 WETLAND DELINEATION REPORT
AND BUFFER MITIGATION PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROJECT DESCRIPTION....................................................................................... 1
PROPERTYDESCRIPTION.................................................................................... I
METHODOLOGY..............................................................................2
BACKGROUND INFORMATION...........................................................3
WETLAND DELINEATION RESULTS....................................................4
APPLICABLE SETBACKS ...................................................................................... 4
ANALYSISOF EFFECTS.........................................................................................5
MITIGATIONMEASURES......................................................................................6
MONITORING...........................................................................................................8
SUMMARY.................................................................................................................9
REFERENCES.......................................................................................................... 10
Figures
Figure 1. Site Vicinity Map
Figure 2. Site Map
Figure 3. National Wetland Inventory Map
Figure 4. Mason County Soil Survey Map
Figure 5. DNR Water Resource Map
Ar
THE WETLAND CORPS
Wetland Delineation - Habitat Management Plans - Riparian Restoration - Mitigation - Biological Evaluation
June, 2017 Project TWC17W99
Page 1 of 9
PARCEL 12108-75-00070 WETLAND DELINEATION REPORT AND
BUFFER MITIGATION PLAN
150 E Stretch Island Road
Grapeview,Washington
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The details of a Wetland Delineation Report and Buffer Mitigation Plan for the above
referenced property (Parcel Number 12108-75-00070) are discussed in full in this report.
The site is found in Section 8, Township 21 North, Range 01 West WM (Figure 1. Vicinity
Map).
The purpose of this Wetland Buffer Mitigation Plan(WBMP) is to address potential impacts
resulting from the proposed construction of an access road to be located within the buffer of
a Category III Wetland. The wetland meets criteria for a Category III Wetland with low
habitat function, and therefore requires a buffer of 60 feet with an additional 15-foot access
road setback in Mason County.
The intent of this proposal is to protect the natural features of the property by condensing
the road to the minimum size necessary to access the proposed building site. The road will
be located approximately 40 feet from the wetland at the nearest point and occupy an area of
approximately 2,160 square feet within the wetland buffer.
The objectives of this WBMP are as follows:
■ To evaluate the potential adverse effects to critical area functions as well as fish and
wildlife habitat resulting from the establishment of the access road within the
wetland buffer.
■ To identify possible mitigation measures that could be implemented to offset the
adverse effects resulting from the portion of the road being constructed within the
wetland buffer.
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
The property is accessed from East Stretch Island Road North which represents the western
boundary of the property. The ownership is forested with scattered cleared areas. The central
portion of the property contains a depressional wetland complex with seasonal open water
components.
PO Box 2854,Grapeview,WA 98528 cell:36o-620-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetlandcorps@hotmail.com
Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Buffer Mitigation Plan
TWC No.17W99
June 2017
Page No.2
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Photo 1. Mason County G agery of the property with property lines shown in green and
approximate wetland area circled in yellow.
The property is surrounded primarily by residential parcels of similar size and shape.
Topography throughout the western portion of the parcel generally slopes easterly toward the
depressional wetland area. The eastern portion of the property is flat.
METHODOLOGY
Consistent with procedures detailed in the Washington State Wetlands Identification and
Delineation Manual (Washington State Department of Ecology, 2011) (2011 Manual),
preliminary information was gathered on the project site prior to the field review and
delineation. General information sources included: 1974 United States Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS)National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps, the Soil Survey of Mason County
Area, Washington (USDA, 1980), the Washington Department of Natural Resources Water
Resource Map, and Mason County's critical areas regulations.
Field Delineation
The methodology used for this wetland delineation was consistent with the technical
approaches articulated in the 2011 Manual. This document is the wetland delineation manual
that is used in determining wetland areas when applying state and local government
regulations under the Shoreline Management Act and the Growth Management Act in
Washington State.
The extent and location of suspect wetlands were determined during field work performed in
June, 2017. Field work was conducted under overcast conditions with an ambient
temperature ranging between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The time of year and recent
precipitation history were considered in assessing the extent of the suspect wetlands presumed
to exist on site.
PO Box 2854,Belfair,WA 98528 cell:36o-62o-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetiandcorps@hotmail.com
Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Buffer Mitigation Plan
TWC No.17W99
June 2017
Page No.3
Specific field methodology used in determining the extent and location of wetland areas
include:
1. As part of the initial project site reconnaissance, the site was walked to determine the
general extent and location of potential wetland areas;
2. Wetland and upland sample plots were established in the identified potential wetland
areas and in the adjacent upland area; and
3. Wetland boundaries were determined by noting localized topography and vegetation
patterns and comparing parameters of hydrology, soil, and vegetation with data
collected at the wetland and upland sample plots.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Mason County Soil Survey
The soil survey of Mason County indicates one onsite soil type, (USDA, 1980):
Map Unit Map Unit Name Acres in Percent of
Symbol AOI AOI
Bd Bellingham silt loam, 0 to 3 2.9 25.4%
percent slopes
Ha Harstine gravelly ashy sandy 2.3 20.4%
loam, 6 to 15 percent slopes
Hb Harstine gravelly ashy sandy 2.8 24 7%
loam, 15 to 30 percent slopes
Ld Lystair sandy loam, 0 to 5 3.3 29.5%
percent slopes
Totals for Area of Interest 11.3 100.0%
A detailed soil description can be found in Appendix B Mason County Soil Survey Text. The
Mason County Soil Survey map is shown in Figure 4.
National Wetlands Inventory
The USFWS NWI map (online wetlands mapper) shows no wetlands within the site location.
The nearest mapped wetland is directly to the sound and is associated with the wetland on
site.
Department of Natural Resources Water Resource Map
The Department of Natural Resources Water Resource Map shows no streams within the
subject property or in locations where they would be associated with the on-site wetland.
(Figure 5. DNR Stream Map).
PO Box 2854, Belfair,WA 98528 cell:36o-62o-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetiandcorps@hotmail.com
Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Buffer Mitigation Plan
TWC No.17W99
June 2017
Page No.4
WETLAND DELINEATION RESULTS
The identified wetland is an isolated depressional wetland supported by a seasonal water table
and surrounding runoff. It extends south off the property.
Vegetation
The majority of the wetland is dominated by a community of slough sedge (Carex obnupta,
OBL), scattered willow(Salix sp), and alder(Alnus rubra).
Soils
The profiles within the wetland test pits consisted of a single layer profile consisting a dark
silt loam 10YR 3/1 and 10YR 2/1. Wetland hydric soils are indicated by a loamy mineral soil
containing a low-chroma(equaling one) in all wetland test pits.
Hydrology
Wetland hydrology is indicated by drift lines, FAC-neutral vegetation, drainage patterns,
water stained leaves, and presumed inundation during the growing season.
WETLAND EVALUATION
The identified wetland was classified as a depressional wetland per Washington State Wetland
Rating System for Western Washington (Hruby 2004). Based on functional attributes
associated with the wetland including habitat, water quality, and hydrology functions, it has
been rated as a Category III wetland, scoring 43 points on the state rating form. The score for
water quality functions in this wetland is 18, hydrological functions scored 6, and the score
for habitat functions is 18 (see Appendix C for rating form). According to Table 8.52.110 of
Mason County Code, the base buffer width for Category III Wetlands meeting the above
criteria for Moderate Impact Land Use is 60 feet with an additional 15-foot building setback.
Moderate Impact Land Use is described as single-family residential lots, residential
subdivisions with 1 unit/acre or less, Moderate-intensity open space (parks), New agriculture
(moderate-intensity such as orchards and hay fields), and transportation enhancement
proj ects.
APPLICABLE SETBACKS
The project site is within the jurisdiction of Mason County. Table 8.52.110 of Mason
County Code identifies wetland buffers adopted by Mason County.
The applicable setback for this project is as follows:
Wetland Category Buffer Building Setback
PO Box 2854, Belfair,WA 98528 cell:36o-62o-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetlandcorps@hotmaii.com
Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Buffer Mitigation Plan
TWC No.17W99
June 2017
Page No.5
ANALYSIS OF PROJECT EFFECTS
The project lies within the regulated buffer of a Category III Wetland. Project scale in the
protected area is as follows:
Development Type Habitat Tye Project scale
Access road Category III Wetland buffer 2,160 sq. ft.
Vegetation Disturbance
The proposed access road will be situated over an area occupied by native herbaceous
upland vegetation. With recommended planting of native vegetation described below, the
project will result in an overall net benefit of native vegetation abundance and diversity
within the parcel.
Designated Critical Habitat for Salmonids
Designated Critical Habitat for Salmonids is not within the vicinity of the project area.
Therefore, none of the proposed actions are likely to destroy or adversely modify designated
critical habitat. Actions described in this plan are not expected to jeopardize the continued
existence of any listed species.
Noise Pollution
A slight increase in noise from construction activities is likely to occur during daylight
construction hours. No nesting sites are located within the radii of concern that would be
impacted by noise associated with the establishment of the access road.
Temporary Increase in Sediment and Turbidity During Construction
The proposed work has the potential to temporarily increase turbidity and suspended
sediment within the project area. Best Management Practices have been recommended to
minimize the adverse effects to sediment supply and turbidity during project
implementation.
Light and Glare
The proposed project will not result in increased light and glare within the buffer. No
impacts to the use of the site by wildlife species are likely to result from light and glare
associated with this project.
PO Box 2854, Belfair,WA 98528 cell:36o-62o-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetiandcorps@hotmail.com
Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Buffer Mitigation Plan
TWC No.17W99
June 2017
Page No.6
MITIGATION MEASURES
Avoidance
The proposed access road site has been located to minimize the need for significant native
vegetation removal or additional significant earthmoving. Positioning the access road further
from the wetland would require displacement of native vegetation from within the buffer and
additional earthwork.
Minimization Mitigation
The proposed project minimizes impacts to the wetland buffer by limiting the access road
footprint to 2,160 square feet(see Figure 2. Site Map).
Uhancement RecommendatioN
To compensate for the proposed project being located within the wetland buffer,
in the form of invasive species removal and native vegetation restoration within th-dW
wetland bufft. total buffer enhancement area of 2,500 square tea wil1.cjxjn a _,of
eve species and planted with native trees and shrubs. The area is located adjacent to the
wetland.
Prior to installation of native plants, any invasive species will be uprooted and disposed of
off site. This can be done either by hand or using a rubber tracked excavator. Best
Management Practices are outlined below to be followed during this work.
The following plant species are recommended for installation within the buffer enhancement
area. The species have been chosen based on their versatility and tolerance to on-site
conditions. Other native plants may be used upon review by either county staff or a qualified
wetland specialist. The use of potted plants as opposed to bare root seedlings is preferable
due to the increased survival rate.
Trees
Douglas Fir(Pseudotsuga menziesii)
Big Leaf Maple(Acer macrophyllum)
Cascara(Rhamnus purshiana)
Shrubs
Nootka rose(Rosa nutkana)
Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus)
Salmonberry(Rubus discolor)
Snowberry(Symphoricarpos albus)
Indian plum(Oemleria cerasifor)
Pacific Willow(Salix lusida)
Hooker willow(Salix hookeriana)
Scouler willow(Salix scouleriana)
Sitka willow(Salix sitchensis)
Beaked hazelnut(Corylus cornuta)
PO Box 2854, Belfair,WA 98528 cell:36o-62o-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetiandcorps hotmail.com
Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Buffer Mitigation Plan
TWC No.17W99
June 2017
Page No.7
Oceanspray(Holodiscus discolor)
Pacific ninebark(Physocarpus capitatus)
Western thimbleberry(Rubus parviflorus)
It is recommended that plantings be installed within the identified zone to achieve a density
of ten feet on center for trees and five feet on center for shrubs. A minimum of two tree and
four shrub species from the above list are recommended. This density will provide a
moderately dense, structurally diverse plant community within the Enhancement Zone. To
fulfill the above mentioned planting density recommendation, the Enhancement Zone will be
planted with a total of 10 trees and 90 shrubs. Any volunteer vegetative species may be
counted toward target densities.
Typically, planting should occur during winter dormancy. The optimum time for planting is
during February and March; however, the need to complete the project in a timely manner
may call for planting to occur outside optimum time periods. All installed vegetation shall be
marked with colored flagging to facilitate monitoring inspections. The monitoring program
is outlined to insure project effectiveness.
Best Management Practices
Recommended Best Management Practices for this project are as follows:
• Perform excavation and site preparation work during dry weather.
• Install silt fencing between the work area and the wetland to prevent erosion and
siltation of waters(See diagram below).
• Minimize amount of erodible soils at any given time to the maximum extent feasible.
• Check all equipment daily for leaks. Refueling and lubrication of equipment should
occur off site. Do not store any fuel, lubricants, chemicals, or hazardous substances
outside overnight within the project area.
• Do not apply any chemicals when there is a possibility of rain.
• Comply with all permits and requirements of the governing authority.
PO Box 2854,Belfair,WA 98528 cell:36o-62o-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetlandcorps@hotmail.com
Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Buffer Mitigation Plan
TWC No.17W99
June 2017
Page No.8
HIGH
CONSTRUCTION
STEEL POST FENCE
f
FIAR
10 FT FM%SPACM mm
WpE SUPPORT FENCE
6 FT-SPACMO MiflIOIIT
.ME SUPPORT FENCE
FILTER FABRIC
PONDDIG HT.
STEEL POST �Rum-
'RUNOFF
T
12'WN.
4'r6'TRENCH
WITH COMPACTED
BACKFILL
Silt Fence Diagram
Silt fence Installation
The presence of exposed soil associated with site preparation work poses a risk of erosion and
siltation to the wetland during storm events. It is recommended that silt fencing be installed
between the work areas and the wetland to avoid siltation. The silt fence should be inspected
and repaired if necessary after each storm event. Sediment should be removed from the fence
and deposited to an area that will not contribute to regulated waters. The fence can be
removed once the project is complete and soil has stabilized.
MONITORING
Monitoring of the site will begin the first fall following planting and maintained on a
seasonal basis. The information gathered will provide the following: 1) condition of
reintroduced plant species; 2) the use of the site by wildlife species; 3) any disturbance
caused by the development and its effect on the protected zone and associated aquatic
habitat; 4) any occurrence of exotic species within the Enhancement Zone; 5) any corrective
measures that may be deemed necessary to provide desired conditions. i ,.
AW ait and submiftd,to 111e 71rect6r of Meson County.
PO Box 2854,Belfair,WA 98528 cell:36o-62o-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetiandcorps@hotmail.com
Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Buffer Mitigation Plan
TWC No.17W99
June 2017
Page No.9
SUMMARY
This report addresses the establishment of an access road to occupy an area of 2,100 square
feet within the regulated buffer of a Category III Wetland. The access road is proposed 40
feet from the wetland. Best Management Practices are recommended to insure no negative
impacts to the wetland. Mitigation recommendations include native vegetation
enhancement of 2,500 square feet of the wetland buffer (see Figure 2. Site Map). No
impacts to water quality or aquatic habitat are predicted.
Mitigation Measures and Best Management Practices have been identified to avoid,
minimize, and mitigate for impacts associated with the proposed project.
We trust this information is sufficient for your needs at this time. Thank you for choosing
The Wetland Corps as your wetland consultant. If you have any questions feel free to call.
Respectfully submitted,
Lee Boad
Senior Ecologist
Heather Lane
Staff Wetland&Natural Resource Specialist
PO Box 2854,Belfair,WA 98528 cell:36o-62o-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetiandcorps@hotmaii.com
REFERENCES
Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet and E.T. LaRoe, 1979. Classification of
Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service document FWS/OBS-79/31. 84 pp. Washington, D.C.
Hitchcock, L.C. and A. Cronquist, 1973. Flora of the Pacific Northwest.
University of Washington Press.. 730 pp.
Hruby, T., 2004. Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington—Revised.
Washington State Department of Ecology Publication#04-06-025.
Munsell Soil Color Charts, 1998. GretagMacbeth. New Windsor,New York.
Pojar, J. and A. MacKinnon, 1994. Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast. Lone
PinePublishing. 528 pp. Vancouver, British Columbia.
Speare-Cooke, S., 1997. A Field Guide to the Common Wetland Plants of
Western Washington and Northwestern Oregon. Seattle Audubon Society.
417 pp.
US Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. Soil Survey of Mason
County Area, Washington. September, 1951.
US Fish and Wildlife Service. National Wetlands Inventory. 1978.
Washington State Department of Ecology, 1997. Washington State Wetland
Identification and Delineation Manual. Ecology Publication#96-94,
various pagination. Olympia, Washington.
Washington State Department of Ecology, 1993. Washington State Wetlands
Rating System, Western Washington Second Edition. 61 pp.Ecology
Publication#93-74. Olympia, Washington.
Washington State Department of Ecology, 1999. Methods for Assessing
Wetland Functions for Reverine and Depressional Wetlands in the
Lowlands of Western Washington. Ecology Publication#99-115. Olympia,
Washington.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service, 1993. National List of Plant Species that
Occur in Wetlands Region 9—Northwest. Resource Management Group
PO Box 2854,Grapeview,WA 98528 cell:36o-620-o618,Office:370-372-2421 e-mail:wetiandcorps@hotmaii.com
Measure
Approximate
Site Location Graph ew
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112
122.799
Bureau of Land Management, Esn, HERE,Garmin, INCREMENT P, NG;
Section 8 Township 21 North Range 1 West
FIGURE 1. SITE VICINITY MAP
Project: Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Report
Project Number: TWC 17 0099
Client: Terrie Anderson
Location: Grapeview, WA
THE WETLAND CORPS Date: 6/2017
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JUkoeflon Am e Q✓a u 0
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This site map was created by Don Zech and
edited by TWC by coordinating
measurements and information from several
sources, including the Mason County
Assessor Aerial Photo 2009 and GoogleEarth
aerial images and field review. All locations
FIGURE 2. SITE MAP
Project: Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Report
Project Number: TWC 17 0099
Client: Terrie Anderson
THE WETLAND CORPS Location: Grapeview, WA
Date: 6/2017
Approximate
Parcel Location
i�.5. Fish ar+�i Wildlife Service,!National Standards and Support Team,anr... esry
Figure adapted from the Figure 3. NWI Map
NWI Mapping Website
Section 8 Township 21 North Range 1 West
FIGURE 3. NWI WETLANDS MAP
Project: Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Report
Project Number: TWC 17 0099
THE WETLAND CORPS Client: Terrie Anderson
Location: Grapeview, WA
Date: 6 2017
N
Map Unit Map Unit Name Acres in Percent of
Symbol AOI AOI
Bd Bellingham silt loam, 0 to 3 2.9 25.4%
percent slopes
Ha Harstine gravelly ashy sandy 2.3 20.4%
loam, 6 to 15 percent slopes
Hb Harstine gravelly ashy sandy 2.8 24 7%
loam, 15 to 30 percent slopes
Ld Lystair sandy loam, 0 to 5 3.3 29.5%
percent slopes
Totals for Area of Interest 11.3 100.0%
FIGURE 4. MASON COUNTY SOIL SURVEY
Project: Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Report
Project Number: TWC 17 0099
W777 Client: Terrie Anderson
THE WETLAND CORPS Location: Grapeview, WA
Date: 6/2017
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Approximate
Parcel Location
f
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1 F
a
J
1�
YYater Bodies
■ F1atslGrawel Bars
. Ice
. Man Made Features
open Water
. Wet Area
Streams
Streams
Type S
Type F
Type N, Np,Ns
U,unknown
•-• X,non-typed per WAC 222-16
Project: Parcel 12108-75-00070 Wetland Report
Project Number: TWC 17 0099
Client: Terrie Anderson
-Irr Location: Grapeview,WA
THE WETLAND CORPS Date: 6/2017
APPENDIX B
Soil Survey Text
BELLINGHAM SERIES
The Bellingham series consists of very deep, poorly drained soils formed in loess,
alluvium, and lacustrine sediments. These soils are in depressions. Slopes of 0 to 3
percent. The average annual precipitation is about 48 inches and the mean annual
temperature is about 50 degrees F.
TAXONOMIC CLASS: Fine,mixed, superactive, nonacid, mesic Vertic Endoaquepts
TYPICAL PEDON: Bellingham silty clay loam -pasture. (Colors are for moist soil
unless otherwise noted. All textures are apparent field textures.)
Ap--O to 5 inches; black (10YR 2/1) silty clay loam, dark gray (10YR 4/1) dry; strong
fine granular structure; hard, friable, moderately sticky and moderately plastic; many fine
roots; moderately acid(pH 5.8): abrupt smooth boundary. (4 to 6 inches thick)
Bgl--5 to 8 inches; gray (5Y 511) silty clay, light gray(N 7/) dry; few fine distinct
yellowish brown(1 OYR 5/8)redox concentrations; weak medium prismatic structure;
very hard, firm, moderately sticky and moderately plastic; many fine roots; many
medium tubular and vesicular pores; moderately acid(pH 6.0); clear smooth boundary. (2
to 13 inches thick)
Bg2--8 to 14 inches; dark gray(5Y 4/1) silty clay, light gray (N 70 dry; few fine distinct
yellowish brown(I OYR 5/8)redox concentrations; moderate medium prismatic structure;
very hard, firm, very sticky and very plastic; common fine roots; many medium tubular
and interstitial pores; thin patchy pressure faces on peds and lining pores; slightly acid
(pH 6.2); clear smooth boundary. (4 to 18 inches thick)
Bg3--14 to 22 inches; gray(5Y 511) clay, light gray (N 7/) dry; many medium distinct
yellowish brown(I OYR 5/8) redox concentrations; moderate medium prismatic structure;
very hard, firm, very sticky and very plastic; common fine roots; many medium tubular
and interstitial pores; continuous pressure faces on peds; slightly acid(pH 6.4); clear
smooth boundary. (0 to 10 inches thick)
Bg4--22 to 48 inches; dark gray(5Y 4/1) clay, white (5Y 8/1) dry; many medium distinct
yellowish brown(1 OYR 5/8) redox concentrations; moderate medium prismatic structure;
very hard, firm, very sticky and very plastic; few fine roots; common fine relic grass
leaves; few medium tubular and interstitial pores; continuous pressure faces on peds;
neutral (pH 6.6); gradual smooth boundary. (0 to 40 inches thick)
Bg5-48 to 60 inches; gray (5Y 5/1) silty clay, white(5Y 8/1) dry; many medium distinct
yellowish brown(1OYR 5/8)redox concentrations; moderate medium prismatic structure;
very hard, firm, very sticky and very plastic; common fine roots; many medium tubular
and interstitial pores; continuous pressure faces on peds; slightly acid(pH 6.4)
TYPE LOCATION: Thurston County, Washington; 8 miles northwest of Olympia,
about 2,100 feet east and 400 feet south of the NW corner sec. 34, T. 19 N., R. 3 W.
RANGE IN CHARACTERISTICS: Thickness of the solum is 40 to 60 inches or more.
The particle-size control section is 35 to 60 percent clay and 0 to 2 percent rounded
pebbles. The mean annual soil temperature is 47 to 52 degrees F. It is assumed the solum
to a depth of 40 inches has a linear extensibility of 2 to 3 inches.
The A horizon has value of 2 or 3 moist, 3 through 5 dry, and chroma of 1 through 3.
Some pedons have strong brown to dark brown redox concentrations. This horizon has
moderate or strong granular or angular blocky structure. It is moderately acid or slightly
acid.
The Bg horizon has hue of 10YR, 2.5Y, 5Y, 513G, or 5GY, value of 3 through 6 moist, 5
through 8 dry, and chroma of 0 through 3. It has few to many fine and medium dark
reddish brown, yellowish red, strong brown, yellowish brown, or dark yellowish brown
redox concentrations. It is clay loam, silty clay loam, silty clay, or clay. This horizon has
weak or moderate prismatic or angular blocky structure. It has weak or distinct pressure
faces on some peds. It is moderately acid through moderately alkaline.
The C horizon, where present,has hue of 2.5Y, 5Y, or 513, value of 3 through 6 moist, 4
through 8 dry, and chroma of 1 or 2 moist and dry. It has yellowish red or strong brown
redox concentrations. This horizon is clay loam, silty clay loam, silty clay, or clay with
some pedons having thin layers of sandy loam or silt loam. It is moderately acid through
moderately alkaline.
COMPETING SERIES: There are no competing series.
GEOGRAPHIC SETTING: Bellingham soils are in depressions at elevations of 20 to
600 feet. Slopes are 0 to 3 percent. These soils formed in loess, alluvium and lacustrine
sediments. The climate is characterized by cool, dry summers and cool, moist winters.
Average annual precipitation is 25 to 60 inches. Average January temperature is about 39
degrees F; average July temperature is about 64 degrees F; and the mean annual
temperature is about 50 degrees F. Frost-free season is 150 to 210 days.
GEOGRAPHICALLY ASSOCIATED SOILS: These are the Alderwood, Clallam,
Elwha, Everett, Kitsap, Labounty, McKenna, Sadie, Skipop , and Whatcom soils. All of
these soils lack an aquic moisture regime except Labounty and McKenna soils. Also,
Alderwood soils have a cemented layer. Clallam, Elwha, McKenna, and Sadie soils have
a densic contact with dense very compact glacial till at depths of 20 to 40 inches. Everett
soils are sandy-skeletal. Kitsap soils are fine-silty. Labounty soils are fine-loamy.
Skipopa soils have an argillic horizon with a silt loam surface mantle that qualifies as
aquandic. Whatcom soils are fine-loamy.
DRAINAGE AND PERMEABILITY: Poorly drained; ponded or very slow runoff;
slow permeability. A water table occurs at or near the surface from November through
April unless the soil is drained.
USE AND VEGETATION: Bellingham soils are used primarily for cropland and
pasture. Grass-legume hay is the principal crop.Native vegetation is predominantly red
alder,western redcedar, bigleaf maple,western hemlock and Douglas-fir with an
understory of western swordfern, trailing blackberry, western brackenfern, thimbleberry,
salmonberry, huckleberry, and Douglas spirea.
DISTRIBUTION AND EXTENT: This series is of moderate extent in the Puget Sound
Area and on the north end of the Olympic Peninsula; MLRA 2.
MLRA SOIL SURVEY REGIONAL OFFICE (MO) RESPONSIBLE: Portland,
Oregon
SERIES ESTABLISHED: Eastern Puget Sound Basin, Washington, 1909.
REMARKS: Diagnostic horizons and other features are: Soil is not considered a vertic
intergrade based on similar soil data from lab pedon#81P0515. Characterization data are
available; sample numbers S77WA-9-3, S81 WA-073-3. Diagnostic horizons and features
recognized in this pedon are an ochric epipedon and a gleyed cambic horizon from 5 to
60 inches.
In the past this series has been interpreted as having an apparent or a perched water table.
The series is considered to have Endo saturation. For areas mapped with perched water
tables and a moist or dry zone is present below the layer perching the water, a new series
will need to be proposed.
HARSTINE SERIES
Landscape--glacial drift plains
Landform--ridges
Slope--0 to 45 percent
Parent material--sandy glacial drift with an influence of volcanic ash over dense
glaciomarine deposits
Mean annual precipitation--about 890 mm
Mean annual air temperature--about 11 degrees C
Depth class--moderately deep to a densic horizon
Drainage class--moderately well drained
Soil moisture regime--xeric
Soil temperature regime--mesic
Soil moisture subclass--typic
TAXONOMIC CLASS: Coarse-loamy, isotic, mesic Vitrandic Dystroxerepts
TYPICAL PEDON: Harstine gravelly ashy sandy loam, forested
Oi--O to 1 cm; slightly decomposed twigs and needles; very strongly acid(pH 4.8);
abrupt wavy boundary
Oe--1 to 3 cm; decayed needles; very strongly acid(pH 4.8); abrupt wavy boundary
Bwl--3 to 15 cm; gravelly ashy sandy loam, brown(IOYR 5/3)dry, dark yellowish
brown(IOYR 3/4) moist;weak very fine subangular blocky structure; soft, very friable,
slightly plastic; many roots; 28 percent gravel and 2 percent cobbles; very strongly acid
(pH 5.0); clear wavy boundary
Bw2--15 to 36 cm; gravelly ashy sandy loam, yellowish brown(IOYR 5/4) dry, dark
brown(7.5YR 3/4) moist; weak fine subangular blocky structure; soft, very friable; many
roots; 28 percent gravel and 2 percent cobbles; strongly acid(pH 5.4); clear wavy
boundary
Bw3--36 to 56 cm; gravelly ashy sandy loam, pale brown(IOYR 6/3) dry, brown(IOYR
4/3)moist; weak fine subangular blocky structure; soft, very friable; many roots; 28
percent gravel and 2 percent cobbles; strongly acid(pH 5.4); gradual wavy boundary
Bw4--56 to 81 cm; gravelly ashy sandy loam, light yellowish brown(10YR 6/4) dry, dark
yellowish brown(IOYR 4/4)moist; weak fine subangular blocky structure; soft, very
friable; many roots; 28 percent gravel and 2 percent cobbles; moderately acid(pH 5.6);
abrupt wavy boundary
2Cdl--81 to 97 cm; dense glacial till that breaks to gravelly loamy sand, light brownish
gray(IOYR 6/2)dry, grayish brown(2.5Y 5/2)moist; massive; very firm, hard; few roots
in fractures; 22 percent gravel and 13 percent cobbles; moderately acid (pH 5.8); gradual
wavy boundary
2Cd2--97 to 155 cm; dense glacial till that breaks to gravelly loamy sand, grayish brown
(2.5Y 5/2) dry, light brownish gray(IOYR 6/2) dry; massive; very firm, hard; few roots
in fractures; 22 percent gravel and 13 percent cobbles; moderately acid(pH 5.8)
TYPE LOCATION: Pierce County, Washington; 49 m east and 1219 m north of the
southwest corner of section 36,T. 22 N., R.1 E., at an elevation of 120 m, on a 4-percent
slope; latitude 47.352001, longitude -122.835000, datum WGS 84 (coordinates estimated
from PLSS details)
RANGE IN CHARACTERISTICS:
Mean annual soil temperature--9 to 11 degrees C
Moisture control section--dry 60 to 80 days
Depth to densic contact--50 to 100 cm
Particle-size control section
*Content of rock fragments--0 to 35 percent gravel, 0 to 3 percent cobbles
*Content of clay--5 to 15 percent
*Reaction--4.5 to 6.0
*Thickness of volcanic ash influence--18 to 100 cm
Estimated properties of layers influenced by volcanic ash
*Content of volcanic glass in 0.02 to 2 mm fraction--5 to 20 percent
*Ammonium oxalate Al plus 1/2 Fe--0.4 to 1.0 percent
A horizon(where present)
Hue--7.5YR, 10YR
Value--3 or 4 dry or moist
Chroma--2 or 3 dry or moist
Thickness--thin
Bw horizon
Hue--7.5YR, 10YR
Value--3 or 4 moist, 5 to 7 dry
Chroma--3 or 4 dry or moist
Redoximorphic features--fine faint in some pedons
Combined thickness--61 to 102 cm
2Cd horizon
Hue--10YR, 2.5Y
Value-4 to 6 dry or moist
Chroma--2 to 4 dry or moist
Texture--coarse sandy loam, loamy sand, sand
Content of rock fragments--0 to 35 percent gravel, 0 to 25 percent cobbles
Redoximorphic features--none to common faint concentrations along fractures
Thickness of 2Cd1 horizon--13 to 18 cm
COMPETING SERIES:
E1Capitan, Leidig--very deep; buried A horizon
Gilligan, Sulsavar, Vader, Sentinel--very deep
Poulsbo--E horizon 3 to 10 cm thick
Tenino--less than 50 percent sand in control section; 2C horizon with more than 60
percent rock fragments
GEOGRAPHIC SETTING:
Elevation--sea level to 120 m
Climate--marine; cool, dry summers; mild, moist winters
Mean annual precipitation--762 to 1397 mm
Mean annual air temperature--11 degrees C
Frost-free season--180 to 200 days
GEOGRAPHICALLY ASSOCIATED SOILS:
Bow, Kitsan--more than 18 percent clay
Indianola--sandy
Neilton--no duripan
DRAINAGE AND SATURATED HYDRAULIC CONDUCTIVITY:
Drainage class--moderately well drained
Saturated hydraulic conductivity(Ksat)--moderately high to densic horizon; low below
densic horizon
Perched water table--61 to 100 cm at times in January through April
USE AND VEGETATION:
Use--timber production, hay and pasture, urban development, wildlife habitat
Native vegetation--Douglas-fir,madrone, western hemlock, red alder, vine maple, salal,
swordfern, Oregon grape
DISTRIBUTION AND EXTENT: Northwestern Washington; MLRA 2; moderate
extent
SOIL SURVEY REGIONAL OFFICE (SSRO) RESPONSIBLE: Portland, Oregon
SERIES ESTABLISHED: Mason County, Washington; 1948
REMARKS:
Diagnostic horizons and other features in this pedon
*Ochric epipedon
*Cambic horizon--zone from 3 to 81 cm
*Depth to densic contact--81 cm
*Densic horizon--zone from 81 to 155 cm
*Volcanic glass--zone from 3 to 81 cm
*Oxyaquic feature--perched water table at a depth of 61 to 100 cm at times in January
through April
*Depth to lithologic discontinuity--81 cm
*Particle-size control section--zone from 28 to 81 cm
4/1994--The classification was updated, and the nomenclature of Bsim horizon was
changed. The Harstine soils are on the border of criteria for sandy and coarse-loamy
families.
1/2000--The classification was changed from mixed, mesic Vitrandic Durochrepts to
isotic, mesic Vitrandic Dystroxerepts based on revisions to Soil Taxonomy. The Bsim
horizon was changed to a Bsm horizon.
1/2013--This official series description(OSD)was updated as part of the soil data join
recorrelation initiative. English units were converted to metric units, competing series
were updated, 213sm horizon was changed to Cd horizon,reference to cementation was
removed from 2Cd1 horizon, ashy modifier was added to textures, and standardized
Vitrandic subgroup volcanic glass characteristics were added to range of characteristics.
Further investigation is needed to confirm the presence of volcanic glass in the series.
Further investigation is also need to determine whether the 2Cd horizon is cemented with
silica, which would make it a 2Bgm horizon.
12/2015--This official series description was updated according to SSR01 Technical
Note--Content and Format of Official Series Descriptions(revised 12/2015). Most of the
changes were in formatting; no major technical changes were made.
ADDITIONAL DATA:
Riverside Soil Survey Laboratory data--73Wash-655-66 and 68 (R7357 and R7366)
Appendix C
Washington State Wetland Rating System Form
Wetland name or number
WETLAND RATING FORM — WESTERN WASHINGTON
Version 2—Updated July 2006 to increase accuracy and reproducibility among users
Updated Oct.2008 with the new WDFW definitions for priority habitats
Name of wetland(if known):Mason Parcel: 12108-75-00070 Wetland Date of site visit: 6/17
Rated by:Heather Lane Trained by Ecology? Yes 0 No L1 Date of training:10/06
SEC: 8 TOWNSHP: 21N RNGE: 1 W Is S/T/R in Appendix D? Yes❑ No
Map of wetland unit: Figure 2 Estimated size<3 acres
SUMMARY OF RATING
Category based on FUNCTIONS provided by wetland: ❑ I ❑ II ® III ❑ IV
Category I = Score>70 Score for Water Quality Functions 18
Category 11 = Score 51 -69 Score for Hydrologic Functions 6
Category III = Score 30—50 Score for Habitat Functions 19
Category IV = Score <30 TOTAL Score for Functions 43
Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTCS of Wetland ❑ I ❑ II ® Does not apply
Final Category(choose the"highest" category from above") III
Summary of basic information about the wetland unit.
Wetland Unit has Special Wetland HGM Class
Characteristics 1, uesl for Rating
Estuarine ❑ De ressional
Natural Heritage Wetland Riverine ❑
Bog Lake-fringe
Mature Forest Sloe ❑
Old Growth Forest Flats ❑
Coastal Lagoon Freshwater Tidal
Interdunal ❑
None of the above ® Check if unit has multiple ❑
HGM classes present
Does the wetland being rated meet any of the criteria below? If you answer YES to any of the questions below you will
need to protect the wetland according to the regulations regarding the special characteristics found in the wetland.
Check List for Wetlands that Need Additional Protection YES NO
in addition to the protection recommended for its category)
SP 1. Has the wetland unit been documented as a habitat for any Federally listed Threatened or
Endangered animal or plant species (TIE species)? ❑
For the purposes of this rating system,"documented"means the wetland is on the appropriate
state or federal database.
SP2. Has the wetland unit been documented as habitat for any State listed Threatened or
Endangered animal species? For the purposes of this rating system, "documented"means the ❑
wetland is on the appropriate state database. Note: Wetlands with State listed plant species
are categorized as Category 1 Natural Heritage Wetlands (see p. 19 of data form).
SP30 Does the wetland unit contain individuals of Priority species listed by the WDFW or the state? ❑
SP4. Does the wetland unit have a local significance in addition to its functions? For example,the
wetland has been identified in the Shoreline Master Program,the Critical Areas Ordinance, or ❑
in a local management plan as having special significance.
To complete the next part of the data sheet you will need to determine the Hydro¢eomorphic Class of the wetland beine rated.
The hydgeomotplic classification groups wetlands in to those that f mcdon in similar ways. This simplifies the questions needed to answer how well the wetland
fimdions.The Hydrogeomotlim Class of a wetland can be deW mined using the key below. See p.24 for mote demiled instruction on classifying wetla<&
Wetland Rating Form—Western Washington,Version 2(7/06),updated with new WDFW definitions Oct.2008 Page 1 of 12
Wetland name or number
Classification of Vegetated Wetlands for Western Washington
If the hydrologic criteria listed in each question do not apply to the entire unit being rated,you probably have a unit with
multiple HGM classes. In this case, identify which hydrologic criteria in questions 1-7 apply, and go to Question 8.
1. Are the water levels in the entire unit usually controlled by tides(i.e. except during floods)?
®NO—go to 2 ❑ YES—the wetland class is Tidal Fringe
If yes, is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow below 0.5 ppt(parts per thousand)?
❑YES—Freshwater Tidal Fringe ❑NO—Saltwater Tidal Fringe(Estuarine)
Ifyour wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Riverine wetlands. If it is a Saltwater Tidal Fringe it
is rated as an Estuarine wetland Wetlands that were call estuarine in the fast and second editions of the rating system are called Salt
Water Tidal Fringe in the Hydrogeomorphic Classification. Estuarine wetlands were categorized separately in the earlier editions,and
this separation is being kept in this revision. To maintain consistency between editions,the term"Estuarine"wetland is kept. Please
note,however,that the characteristics that define Category I and 11 estuarine wetlands have changed(see p. ).
2. The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is only source(>90%) of water to it. Groundwater and surface water
runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
®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 meet both of the following criteria?
❑ The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a body of permanent open water(without any vegetation on
the surface)where at least 20 acres(8ha) in size;
❑ At least 30%of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 (2 m)?
®NO—go to 4 ❑ YES—The wetland class is Lake-fringe(Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland 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?
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these types of wetlands except occasionally in very small and
shallow depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually<3 ft diameter and less than 1 foot deep).
®NO—go to 5 ❑ YES—The wetland class is Slope
5. Does the entire wetland 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 two years.
NOTE: The riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is notJlooding..
®NO—go to 6 ❑ YES—The wetland class is Riverine
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at some time of
the year. This means that any outlet, if present is higher than the interior of the wetland.
❑NO—go to 7 ® YES—The wetland class is Depressional
7. Is the entire wetland 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 your wetland. NOTE: Use this table only if the class that is recommended in
the second column represents 10%or more of the total area of the wetland unit being rated If the area of the 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.
Slope +Riverine Riverine
Slope+Depressional Depressional
Slope+Lake-fringe Lake-fringe
Depressional +Riverine along stream within boundary Depressional
Depressional+Lake-fringe Depressional
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other class of Treat as ESTUARINE under wetlands with special
freshwater wetland characteristics
If you are unable still to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland, or you have more than 2 HGM classes
within a wetland boundary, classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Wetland Rating Form—Western Washington,Version 2(7/06),updated with new WDFW definitions Oct.2008 Page 2 of 12
Wetland name or number
WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONS—indicators that wetland functions to improve water quality. 6aiy .
per boxx)
D 1 Does the wetland have the potential to improve water quality? (see p.38)
D 1.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland:
• Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it(no outlet).....................................points=3 Figurer
• Unit has an intermittently flowing, OR highly constricted,permanently flowing outlet...points=2
• Unit has an unconstricted,or slightly constricted, surface outlet(permanently flowing)..points= 1
• Unit is a"flat"depression(Q.7 on key),or in the Flats class,with permanent surface 2
outflow and no obvious natural outlet and/or outlet is a man-made ditch.....................points= 1 ❑
(ff ditch is not permanentlyflowing treat unit as "intermittent! owin ' Provide photo or drawing
D 1.2 The soil 2 inches below the surface(or duff layer)is clay or organic(use NRCS definitions) 0
YES points=4 NO points=0
D 1.3 Characteristics of persistent vegetation(emergent, shrub, and/or forest Cowardin class):
• Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation>=95%of area.........................................points=5 Figure[l
• Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation>= 1/2 of area...........................................points=3
• Wetland has persistent, ungrazed vegetation>= 1/10 of area.........................................points= 1
• Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation < 1/10 of area............................................points=0 5
Map of Cowardin vegetation classes
D 1.4 Characteristics of seasonal ponding or inundation: This is the area of the wetland that is ponded for at
least 2 months, but dries out sometime during the year. Do not count the area that is permanently Figure II
ponded. Estimate area as the average condition 5 out of 10 years.
• Area seasonally ponded is> 1/2 total area of wetland.....................................................points=4
• Area seasonally ponded is> 1/4 total area of wetland.....................................................points=2 2
• Area seasonally ponded is< 1/4 total area of wetland.....................................................points=0
Map of H dro eriods
Total for D 1 Add the points in the boxes above I 9
D 2 Does the wetland have the opportunity to improve water quality? (seep. 44)
Answer YES if you know or believe there are pollutants in groundwater or surface water coming into
the wetland that would otherwise reduce water quality in streams, lakes or groundwater downgradient
from the wetland? Note which of the following conditions provide the sources of pollutants. A unit
ma have pollutants coming from several sources, but any single source would qualify as opportunity.
Grazing in the wetland or within 150 ft
Untreated stormwater discharges to wetland
Tilled fields or orchards within 150 ft.of wetland
A stream or culvert discharges into wetland that drains developed areas,residential areas,farmed
fields,roads,or clear-cut logging
Residential, urban areas,golf courses are within 150 ft. of wetland
Wetland is fed by groundwater high in phosphorus or nitrogen Multiplier
Other
®YES multiplier is 2 ❑ NO multiplier is 1 2
♦ TOTAL—Water Qualitj Functions Multielz the score from D1 by 132;then add score to table on p. I
HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS—Indicators that wetland unit fiutetions to reduce ftooding and sCrcatn d 'on.
D 3 Does the wetland have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion? (see p,46)'
D 3.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland unit
• Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it(no outlet).....................................points=4
• Unit has an intermittently flowing, OR highly constricted permanently flowing outlet....points=2
• Unit is a"flat"depression(Q.7 on key)or in the Flats class,with permanent surface 2
outflow and no obvious natural outlet and/or outlet is a man-made ditch.....................points= 1 ❑
(If ditch is not permanently flowing treat unit as "intermittently flowing')
• Unit has an unconstricted or slightly constricted surface outlet (permanently-flowing)........points=0
D 3.2 Depth of storage during wet periods. Estimate the height of ponding above the bottom of the outlet. For
units with no outlet measure from the surface of permanent water or deepest part(if dry).
• Marks of ponding are 3 ft.or more above the surface or bottom of the outlet..................points=7
• The wetland is a"headwater"wetland............................................................................points=5 1
• 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
• Wetland is flat(yes to Q2 or Q.7 on key)but has small depressions on the surface that trap water.points=1
• Marks of ponding less than 0.5 ft....................................................................................points=0
D 3.3 Contribution of wetland unit to storage in the watershed: Estimate the ratio oft e 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 unit..............................................points=5 3
• 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 unit is in the FLATS class....................................................................................points=5
Total for D 3 Add the points in the boxes above 6
Wetland Rating Form—Western Washington,Version 2(7/06),updated with new WDFW definitions Oct.2008 Page 3 of 12
Wetland name or number
D 4 Does the wetland have the opportunity to reduce flooding and erosion? (seep. 49)
Answer YES if the unit is in a location in the watershed where the flood storage,or reduction in water velocity,
it provides helps protect downstream property and aquatic resources from flooding or excessive and/or erosive
flows. Answer NO if the water coming into the wetland is controlled by a structure such as flood gate,tide
gate,flap valve,reservoir etc.OR you estimate that more than 90%of the water in the wetland is from
groundwater in areas where damaging groundwater flooding does not occur. Note which of the following
indicators of opportunity apply.
Wetland is in a headwater of a river or stream that has flooding problems.
Wetland drains to a river or stream that has flooding problems
Wetland has no outlet and impounds surface runoff water that might otherwise flow into a river or
stream that has flooding problems Multiplier
❑ Other
❑YES multiplier is 2 ® NO multiplier is 1
♦ TOTAL—Hydrologic Functions Multiply the score from D3 by 134;then add score to table on p. I
Comments:
Wetland Rating Form—Western Washington,Version 2(7/06),updated with new WDFW definitions Oct.2008 Page 4 of 12
Wetland name or number
A i' AT 1lr TION&=Indtcat th*vretltg4d i6ne ims to,*"ii t' ►abit
H 1 'Does the wetland have the potential to provide habitat for many species?
H 1.1 Vegetation structure (see P. 72): Figure
Check the types of vegetation classes present(as defined by Cowardin)—Size threshold for each class is
114 acre or more than 10%of the area if unit is smaller than 2.5 acres.
Aquatic Bed
Emergent plants
Scrub/shrub(areas where shrubs have>30%cover)
Forested(areas where trees have>30%cover)
1 the unit has a forested class check if:
r]The forested class has 3 out of 5 strata(canopy, sub-canopy, shrubs,herbaceous, moss/ground-cover)
that each cover 20%within the forested polygon. 2
Add the number of vegetation types that qualify. 1 you have: Map of Cowardin vegetation classes
4 structures or more.......points=4 3 structures.............points=2
2 structures....................points= 1 1 structure...............points=0
H 1.2 Hydroperiods (see p.73):
Check the types of water regimes (hydroperiods)present within the wetland. The water regime has to Figure[1
cover more than 10%of the wetland or 114 acre to count(see text for descriptions of hydroperiods).
Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present points=3
Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 or more 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 2
Freshwater tidal wetland.............=2 points Map of hydroperiods
H 1.3 Richness of Plant Species (see p. 75):
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft' (different patches of the same
species can be combined to meet the size threshold)
You do not have to name the species. Do not include Eurasian Milfoil, reed canarygrass,purple
loosestrife, Canadian Thistle. If you counted: > 19 species.......................points 2
5— 19 species....................points= 1 ]
List species below if you want to: <5 species.........................points=0
H 1.4 Interspersion of Habitats(see p. 76):
Decided from the diagrams below whether interspersion between Cowardin vegetation(described in H1.1),or
the classes and unvegetated areas(can include open water or mudflats)is high,medium,low,or none.
CD O (4)
Figure II
None=0 points Low=1 point Moderate=2 points
[riparian braided charnels]
High =3 points 2
Note: If you have 4 or more classes or 3 vegetation classes and open water,the rating is always"high".
Use map of Cowardin classes
H 1.5 Special Habitat Features(seep. 77):
Check the habitat features that are present in the wetland. The number of checks is the number of points
9ou put into the next column.
Large,downed,woody debris within the wetland(>4 in.diameter and 6 ft. long)
Standing snags(diameter at the bottom>4 inches)in the wetland
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft. (2m)and/or overhanging vegetation extends at least 3.3
ft. (lm)over a stream(or ditch)in,or contiguous with the unit,for at least 33 ft. (10m)
❑ 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 turned grey/brown)
®At least 1/4 acre of thin-stemmed persistent vegetation 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 each stratum of plants
NOTE: The 20%stated in early printings of the manual on page 78 is an error. 4
H 1 TOTAL Score—potential for providing habitat Add the points in the column above 11
Wetland Rating Form—Western Washington,Version 2(7/06),updated with new WDFW definitions Oct.2008 Page 8 of 12
Wetland name or number
$2 Does the wetland have the opportunity to provide habitat for many species? (only 1 scot
per box
H 2.1 Buffers (see P. 80):
Choose the description that best represents condition of buffer of wetland unit. The highest scoring Figure❑
criterion that applies to the wetland is to be used in the rating. See text for definition of"undisturbed".
❑ 100m(330 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas, or open water>
95%of circumference. No structures are within the undisturbed part of buffer
(relatively undisturbed also means no grazing,no landscaping,no daily human use).............points=5
❑ 100m(330 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas,or open water>
50%circumference........................................................................................................points=4
❑ 50m(170 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas,or open water
>95%circumference....................................................................................................points=4
❑ 100m(330 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas,or open water>
25%circumference........................................................................................................points=3
❑ 50m(170 ft) of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas, or open water for
>50%circumference....................................................................................................points=3
If buffer does not meet any of the criteria above:
®No paved areas(except paved trails)or buildings within 25m (80 ft)of wetland>95%
circumference. Light to moderate grazing or lawns are OK ..........................................points=2
❑No paved areas of buildings within 50m of wetland for>50%circumference. Light
to moderate grazing or lawns are OK.............................................................................points=2
❑ Heavy grazing in buffer.....................................................................................................points= 1
❑ Vegetated buffers are<2m wide(6.6 ft)for more than 95%circumference
(e.g.tilled fields,paving,basalt bedrock extend to edge of wetland).............................points=0
❑ Buffer does not meet any of the criteria above...................................................................points=1 2
Arial photo showing buffers
H 2.2 Corridors and Connections(seep. 81)
H 2.2.1 Is the wetland part of a relatively undisturbed and unbroken vegetated corridor(either riparian
or upland)that is at least 150 ft.wide, has at least a 30%cover of shrubs,forest or native
undisturbed prairie,that connects to estuaries, other wetlands or undisturbed uplands that are at
least 250 acres in size? (Dams in riparian corridors, heavily used gravel roads,paved roads,
are considered breaks in the corridor).
❑YES=4 points(go to H 2.3) ® NO=go to H 2.2.2
H. 2.2.2 Is the wetland part of a relatively undisturbed and unbroken vegetated corridor(either riparian
or upland)that is at least 50 ft.wide,has at least 30%cover of shrubs or forest,and connects to
estuaries, other wetlands or undisturbed uplands that are at least 25 acres in size? OR a Lake-
fringe wetland, if it does not have an undisturbed corridor as in the question above?
❑YES=2 points(go to H 2.3) ❑ NO=go to H 2.2.3
H. 2.2.3 Is the wetland:
• Within 5 mi(8km)of a brackish or salt water estuary OR
• Within 3 miles of a large field or pasture(>40 acres)OR ®YES= 1 point 1
• Within 1 mile of a lake greater than 20 acres? ❑ NO=0 points
Comments:
Wetland Rating Form—Western Washington,Version 2(7/06),updated with new WDFW definitions Oct.2008 Page 9 of 12
Wetland name or number
H 2.3 Near or adjacent to other priority habitats listed by WDFW(see p. 82): (see new and complete
descriptions of WDFW priority habitats,and the counties in which they can be found, in the PHS report
http:Ilwdfw.wa.gov/hab/phslist.htm)
Which of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft.(100m)of the wetland unit?
NOTE:the connections do not have to be relatively undisturbed.
❑Aspen Stands:Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 0.4 ha(1 acre).
❑Biodiversity Areas and Corridors:Areas of habitat that are relatively important to various species of native fish
and wildlife(full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 152).
❑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 20 trees/ha(8 trees/acre)>81 cm(32 in)dbh or>
200 years of age.(Mature forests)Stands with average diameters exceeding 53 cm(21 in)dbh;crown cover
may be less that 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:Woodlands Stands of pure oak or oakiconifer associations where canopy coverage of the oak
component is important(full descriptions in WDFW PHS report p. 158).
❑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).
❑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:pp. 167-169 and glossary in Appendix A).
❑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 7.6 in(25 ft)high and occurring below 5000 ft.
❑Talus:Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.15-2.0 in(0.5-6.5 ft),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>51 cm(20 in)in
western Washington and are>2 in(6.5 ft)in height.Priority logs are>30 cm(12 in)in diameter at the largest
end,and>6 in(20 ft)long. If wetland has 3 or more priority habitats=4 points
If wetland has 2 priority habitats=3 points
If wetland has 1 priority habitat=1 point
No habitats=0 points 2
Note:All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this list.
Nearby wetlands are addressed in question H 2.4
H 2.4 Wetland Landscape: Choose the one description of the landscape around the wetland that best fits(see p. 84)
• There are at least 3 other wetlands within 1/2 mile,and the connections between them are
relatively undisturbed(light grazing between wetlands OK,as is lake shore with some boating,
but connections should NOT be bisected by paved roads,fill,fields,or other development....points=5 ❑
• The wetland is Lake-fringe on a lake with little disturbance and there are 3 other lake-fringe
wetlands within 1/2 mile................................................................................................points=5 ❑
• There are at least 3 other wetlands within 1/2 mile, BUT the connections between them are
disturbed........................................................................................................................points=3
• The wetland fringe on a lake with disturbance and there are 3 other lake-fringe wetlands
within1/2 mile...............................................................................................................points=3 ❑
• There is at least 1 wetland within 1/2 mile......................................................................points=2 ❑
_ 3
• There are no wetlands within 1/2 mile............................................................................points=0 ❑
H 2 TOTAL Score—opportunity for providing habitat Add the scores from 112.1, 112.2, H2.3, 112.4 11
TOTAL for H 1 from page 8 8
♦ Total Score for Habitat Functions Add the points for H I and H 2;then record the result on p. I J
Comments:
Wetland Rating Form—Western Washington,Version 2(7/06),updated with new WDFW definitions Oct.2008 Page 10 of 12