HomeMy WebLinkAboutMEP2008-00015 Cancelled - MEP Permit / Conditions - 2/11/2008 PERMIT NO.: tx301S
DATE RECEIVED:
MASON COUNTY
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
RESOURCE ORDINANCE (Chapter 17.01 MCC)
\O 411 N. 5TH Street/P.O. Box 279, Shelton, WA 98584 RECEIVED
ENVIRONMENTAL PERMIT APPLICATION FES 0 8 20"
MASON ENVIRONMENTAL PERMIT CONDITIONAL USE ❑"I CEC ' - r
The purpose of the Resource Ordinance is to protect Mason County's natural resource lands and critical
areas and is under the authority of Chapters 36.32, 36.70A, 39.34, 58.17, 76.09, 84.33, 84.34 and 90.58
RCW.
PLEASE PRINT
1.
Owner: �U �� WIZ (e r Owner Mailing Address:
(-;7 Z W. a - i r-nir f I�ct
Site Address: e
rL`7 Z (�; H � fi,��av ��[ City: S h State: Q)4 Zip:2 �`
City: !;16' (4,,, State (,4,1/4 Zip: . l/Lien/Title Holder
Phone: Daytime(
// Address: c(cK/i A. My/ �
Fire District#: VQy 4 vi
City: /(cc,r-d 4 State:_W_A__ Zip:
k Signature4 i J4(!__ _
2. Parcel Number: Legal description:
Parcel Size: 4cre I R 3 &P C PT)t! %X 4 o
s� 78 KIV 00,71 AW 6F�
3. Directions to site:
-2;. Mi fd 367Z W, /7n.,f0r 41 7Z+ d ,
State what sections require a permit: In-Holding Lands, Chapter 17.01.062 ❑
4' Long-Term Commercial Forest,Chapter 17.10.060 ❑ Wetlands,Chapter 17.01.070 'A
Mineral Resource Lands, Chapter 17.01.066 ❑ Frequently Flooded Areas,Chapter 17.01.090 ❑
Aquifer Recharge Areas, Chapter 17.01.080 ❑ Landslide Hazard Areas, Chapter 17.01.100 ❑
Erosion Hazard Areas,Chapter 17.01.104 ❑ Seismic Hazard Areas, Chapter 17.01.102 ❑
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas,Chapter 17.01.110 0
5.
Identify current use of property with existing improvements:
�>r•sf�»6 Wtob:l.e Ltowc.P o�^ 9roye�-�, -
6.
Identify and describe the proposed project,including the type of materials to be used,construction methods,principle
dimensions and other pertinent information(Attach additional sheets if 1
needed):_ _��w 5�:e k- f `Z- Pcproo..., Z z �rgyu�s.
/'..r�o-,%e- r,&N-a fLk ed� la r zo'. Ncuc 7.
Will there be an alteration of a wetland and/or wetland vegetation area? Yes ❑ No
8. Any water on or adjacent to property:
Saltwater ❑ Lake ❑ River ❑ Pond ❑ Wetland>( Seasonal Runoff ❑
Other
g. If septic is located on project site,include records.
Connect to septic?)W Community Septic? ❑ Public Water Supply? ❑ Well? ❑
10.
Type of Job: New X Add ❑ Alt ❑ Repair ❑ Demolition ❑ Other
This permit is granted pursuant to the Resource Ordinance (Chapter 17.01 MCC)and nothing in this permit
shall excuse the applicant from compliance with any other federal, state, or local statutes, ordinances, or
regulations applicable to this project, but not inconsistent with the Resource Ordinance. The permit may be
rescinded pursuant to the event the permittee fails to comply with the conditions of this ordinance.
MASON ENVIRONMENTAL PERMIT: $560.00/$-,35ZI0(with another permit)
MASON CONDITIONAL USE ENVIR.PERMIT: $1,350.00
HABITAT MANAGEMENT PLAN: $395.00
(:\PLANNING\C&R\ENVIRONMENTAL REVISED 01-16-07
i
Show the following on the site plan
Lot Dimensions Flood Zones
Existing Structures Fences
Water Lines Driveways
Drainage Plans Shorelines
Septic System Topography Indicate Directional by (N,S,E,W,etc.)
Proposed Improvements Easements In relation to plot plan
Name if Flanking Street
APPLICANT TO DRAW SITE PLAN BELOW:
<�;O--
I �
APPLICANT TO DRAW TOPOGRAPHY BELOW:
MASON COUNTY RESOURCE ORDINANCE July 2003
Publication cost is the responsibility of the applicant. Final permit processing will not occur until
advertising fees have been paid to the newspaper by the applicant. The Shelton-Mason County Journal
will bill the applicant directly.
I /WE understand that I /WE must sign and date the attached acknowledgment indicating and that I /
WE understand that is MY/ OUR responsibility. I /WE must submit the signed page as part of
application in order for it to be considered as complete.
oz /&A Jo9'
DATE
OWNER 0
Tc,tII(&_ 5, 1 �
APPLICANT
MASON COUNTY RESOURCE ORDINANCE Jul, NO',
LIST OF ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS
WITHIN 300 FEET OF YOUR PROPERTY BOUNDARIES
FOR CONDITIONAL USE AND VARIANCE
Addresses are to be obtained from the Mason County Assessor's Office, Bldg. 1, Second Floor.
A
. -/ /
"W fj
J"fA4RWiltermood
1Associates, Inc.
February 6, 2008
Julia Smetzler
3672 W. Dayton Airport Road
Shelton, WA 98584
RE: Wetland Categorization and Single Family Buffer Confirmation for property
located at 3672 W. Dayton Airport Road, Tax Parcel No. 420082490030,
Mason County Case Number BLD2008-00048
Dear Julia:
Mason County Department of Community Development has requested a wetland
categorization to continue the review of the building permit application submitted for
the above referenced parcel. According to the site plan provided by you, a new
home is proposed on a parcel already containing a single family home but the new
home will be situated nearest the road. The wetland is a long linear system that
crosses the very northwest corner and as it extends toward the southwest, there is
increasing distance between it and this property. The wetland was not formally
delineated during the field visit but its location across the property and on the
adjacent west property is roughly indicated on the attached drawing. The
determination of the wetland boundary was conducted per the Washington State
Wetlands Identification and Delineation Manual (DOE Publication No. 96-94). The
distance was measured between the closest point of the wetland and the proposed
homesite and the off-site portion of this wetland appears to be about 130.5 feet from
the new house and about 100 feet from the west line of this property (see drawing).
According to the site plan we received, the new home is at least 165 feet from the
wetland as it crosses the northwest corner and the existing home, driveway and
drainfield are between the two areas. There are no other wetlands on or within 250
feet of the property boundaries.
The wetland is categorized using the Revised 2004 Washington State Wetlands
Rating System for Western Washington in accordance with the Mason County
Critical Areas Ordinance to determine the appropriate buffer width. The attached
rating form indicates that the wetland meets the criteria for a depressional Category
III system scoring 47 points on the rating form because it has potential and
opportunity to perform water quality, hydrologic and habitat functions scoring 18,
12 and 17 points for each function, respectively. The Mason County CAO requires
60 foot buffers for Category III wetlands for moderate intensity land use activities
1015 S.W.Harper Road,Port Orchard,Washington 98367 (360)876-2403 Fax(360)876-2053 i•1
Smetzler
February 6, 2008
Page 2
(single family homes). The proposed homesite is about 130 feet from the identified
wetland boundary so it is well outside the required 60 foot buffer. The driveway lies
along the west property line with forest between the wetland and property line so
there will be no new impact to the wetland as a result of homesite construction.
If you have any questions concerning this wetland categorization, please feel free to
contact me at (360) 876-2403.
Sincerely,
V hn Everitt
Wetland Specialist
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TOPOGRAPHY -.
Wetland name or number
WETLAND RATING FORM —WESTERN WASHINGTON
Version 2 -Updated June 2006 to increase accuracy and reproducibility among users
Name of wetland(if known): Date of site visit:
Rated by�N Trained by Ecology? Yes_kNo_ Date of trainin ig I-i 5 b
SEC: _TWNSHP: RNGE: Is S/T/R in Appendix D? Yes_ No x
Map of wetland unit: Figure _—__ Estimated size �—�17�r,�er 11- I rv4d
SUMMARY OF RATING
Category based on FUNCTIONS provided by wetland
I II 111--4 IV
Score for Water Quality Functions �8
Category I = Score >=70
Category II=Score 51-69 Score for Hydrologic Functions tz
Category III = Score 30-50 k Score for Habitat Functions f7
Category IV = Score < 30 TOTAL score for Functions
Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS of wetland
I II Does not Apply
Final Category (choose the"highest" category from above)
Summary of basic information about the wetland unit
�e-tatt<d iln�if lifts Specia{ WetlandHGM Class
ra�teri�tics used f4rRatin
Estuarine De ressional X
Natural Heritage Wetland Riverine
Bog Lake-fringe
Mature Forest Slope
Old Growth Forest Flats
Coastal Lagoon Freshwater Tidal
Interdunal
None of the above CheckA46
HGM
ltermood
Wetland Rating Form- western Washington ociates, Inc.
version 2
1015 S.W. tyarptr Read
Port Orchard, WA 98367--9306
(36o)876-2403 Fax(360)876-20,�3
Wetland name or number
Does the wetland unit 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 May 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 I Natural Heritage Wetlands see p. 19 of data form).
SP3. Does the wetland unit contain individuals of Priority species listed by the
WDFWfor 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 eg omorphic Class of the wetland being rated.
The hydrogeomorphic classification groups wetlands into those that function in similar ways. This
simplifies the questions needed to answer how well the wetland functions. The Hydrogeomorphic
Class of a wetland can be determined using the key below. See p. 24 for more detailed instructions
on classifying wetlands.
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington 2 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
Classification of Wetland Units in 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 AGM 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)?
0—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 Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is rated as an Estuarine wetland. Wetlands that
were called estuarine in the first 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 II estuarine
wetlands have changed (see p. ).
2.The entire wetland unit is flat and precipitation is the only source (>90%) of water to it.
Groundwater and surface water runoff are NOT sources of water to the unit.
9-go to 3 YES—The wetland class is Fiats
If your wetland can be classified as a"Flats"wetland,use the form for Depressional
wetlands.
3. Does the entire wetland unit 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)at least 20 acres(8 ha) in size;
At least 30% of the open water area is deeper than 6.6 ft(2 m)?
Ogo to 4 YES—The wetland class is Lake-fringe (Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the entire wetland unit meet all of the following criteria?
The wetland is on a slope (slope can be very gradual),
The water flows through the wetland in one direction(unidirectional) and usually
comes from seeps. It may flow subsurface, as sheetflow,or in a swale without
distinct banks.
The water leaves the wetland without being impounded?
NOTE: Surface water does not pond in these type of wetlands except occasionally in
very small and shallow depressions or behind hummocks (depressions are usually
<3ft diameter and less than I foot deep).
Ogo to 5 YES—The wetland class is Slope
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington 3 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
5.Does the entire.wetland'unit meet all of the following criteria?
The unit is in a valley, or stream channel, where it gets inundated by overbank
flooding from that stream or river
The overbank flooding occurs at least once every two years.
NOTE: The riverine unit can contain depressions that are filled with water when the river is
not flooding.
0- 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 during the year. This means that any outlet, ifpresent, is higher than the
interior of the wetland.
NO-go to 7 �-The wetland class is Depressional
7. Is the entire wetland unit located in a very flat area with no obvious depression and no overbank
flooding. The unit does not pond surface water more than a fdw 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
clases. 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.
HGM Classes within the wetland_unit being rated HGM Mass to Use in Rating
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 freshwater Treat as ESTUARINE under
wetland wetlands with special
characteristics
If you are unable still to determine which of the above criteria apply to your wetland,or if you
have more than 2 HGM classes within a wetland boundary,classify the wetland as Depressional
for the rating.
Wetland Rating Form-western Washington 4 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
D DepresSional and Flats Wetlands Points
WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONS - Indicators that the wetland unit functions to (only t score
per box)
im rove water quality
D
D 1. Does the wetland unit have the potential to improve water quality? (see p.38)
D 1.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland_ Figure—
Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it(no outlet) points=3
D Unit has an intermittently flowing,OR highly constricted permanently flowing outlet omts=2
Unit has an unconstricted,or slightly constricted,surface outlet (permanentlyflowing)points= 1
Unit is a"flat"depression(Q. 7 on key),or in the Flats class,with permanent surface 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')
Provide photo or drawin
S 12 The soil 2 inches below the surface(or duff layer) is clay or organic (use NRCS
definitions)
D YES points=
NO is=
D 1.3 Characteristics of persistent vegetation(emergent,shrub, and/or forest Cowardin class) Figure_—
Wetland has persistent,ungrazed,vegetation>=95%of area points= 5
D Wetland has persistent,ungrazed, vegetation>= 1/2 of area
Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation>= 1/10 of area points= 1
Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation<1/10 of area points=0 3
Map of Cowardin vegetation classes
D 1.4 Characteristics of seasonal ponding or inundation. Figure This is the area of the wetland unit that is ponded for at least 2 months, but dries out
D sometime during the year. Do not count the area that is permanently ponded. Estimate
area as the average condition 5 out of 10 yrs.
Area seasonally ponded is>'/2 total area of wetland CZEnts=4
Area seasonally ponded is>'/4 total area of wetland points= 2
Area seasonally ponded is<'/4 total area of wetland points=0
Map of Hydroperiods
D Total for D 1 Add the points in the boxes above { — C _ 1
D D 2.Does the wetland unit 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 may 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
-L Residential,urban areas,golf courses are within 150 ft of wetland multiplier
— Wetland is fed by groundwater high in phosphorus or nitrogen
— Other —_2
YES multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is 1
D TOTAL-Water Quality Functions Multiply the score from DI byJD2Add score to table on 1 g
Wetland Rating Form-western Washington 5 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
D Depressional and Flats Wetlands Points
HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS - Indicators that the wetland unit functions to (ordy t score
reduce flooding and stream degradation per box)
D 3. Does the wetland unit have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion? (see p.46)
D 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=3
Unit has an intermittently flowing,OR highly constricted permanently flowing outlet
Unit is a"flat"depression(Q. 7 on key),or in the Flats class,with permanent surface out ow and
no obvious natural outlet and/or outlet is a man-made ditch points= 1
Qf ditch is not permanently flowing treat unit as "intermittently flowing') 3
Unit has an unconstricted,or slightly constricted,surface outlet ermanentl owinpoints=0
D 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 ofpermanent water or deepest part (if dry).
Marks of ponding are 3 ft or more above the surface or bottom of outlet points=7
The wetland is a"headwater"wetland" points=5
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 ints=
Unit is flat(yes to Q. 2 or Q. 7 on key)but has small depressions on the surface that trap
water points= I
Marks of ponding less than 0.5 ft points=0
D D 3.3 Contribution of wetland unit to storage in the watershed
Estimate the ratio of the area of upstream basin contributing surface water to the wetland
to the area of the wetland unit itself.
The area of the basin is less than 10 times the area of unit points=5
The area of the basin is 10 to 100 times the area of the unit points=3
The area of the basin is more than 100 times the area of the unit oin
Entire unit is in the FLATS class points=5 _ C_
D Total for D 3 Add the points in the boxes above 1 G
D D 4. Does the wetland unit have the opportunity to reduce flooding and erosion? (see p. 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
E multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is 1 - L
D TOTAL -Hydrologic Functions Multiply the score from D 3 by D 4
Add score to table on p. 1 l Z.
Wetland Rating Form-western Washington 6 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
These questions apply to wetlands of all HGM classes. Points
(only 1 scorc
HABITAT FUNCTIONS -Indicators that unit functions to provide important habitat per box)
H 1.Does the wetland unit have the potential to provide habitat for many species?
H 1.1 Vegetation structure (seep. 72) Figure
Check the types of vegetation classes present (as defined by Cowardin)-Size threshold for each
class is '/+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)
X Forested(areas where trees have>30%cover)
If the unit has a forested class check if:
The forested class has 3 out of 5 strata(canopy,sub-canopy, shrubs,herbaceous,
moss/ground-cover)that each cover 20%within the forested polygon
Add the number of vegetation structures that qualify. If you have:
4 structures or more points=4
3 structures points= 2
Map of Cowardin vegetation classes 2 structures m s— 1
1 structure om =0
H 1.2.HydroMriods(seep. 73) Figure
Check the types of water regimes(hydroperiods)present within the wetland. The water
regime has to cover more than 10%of the wetland or V4 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 types present points=2
Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present omt
k Saturated only 1 type present points=0
Permanently flowing stream or river in,or adjacent to,the wetland
Seasonally flowing stream in,or adjacent to,the wetland
Lake fringe wetland =2 points
Freshwater tidal wetland=2 points Map of hydroperiods
H 1.3. Richness of Plant Species (seep. 75)
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 W. (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
List species below ifyou want to: 5 - 19 species
<5 species points=0
t
Total for page 3
Wetland Rating Form -western Washington 13 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
H 1.4.Interspersion of habitats (seep. 76) Figure
Decide from the diagrams below whether interspersion between Cowardin vegetation
classes(described in H 1.1),or the classes and unvegetated areas(can include open water or
mudflats)is high,medium,low,or none.
O
one = 0 pow Low= I point Moderate=2 points
�• [riparian braided channels]
High =3 points
NOTE: If you have four or more classes or three vegetation classes and open water
the rating is always"high"- Use map of Cowardin vegetation 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 you put into the next column.
Large,downed,woody debris within the wetland(>4in. 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
(1 Om)
Stable steep banks of fine material that might be used by beaver or muskrat for denning
(>30degree slope)OR signs of recent beaver activity are present (cut shrubs or trees that
have not yet turned greylbrown)
X At least '/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)
X 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. �(
H 1.TOTAL Score- potential for providing habitat
Add the scores from HI.1, Hl.2, Hl.3, Hl.4, Hl.S
Comments
Wetland Rating Form -western Washington 14 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
H 2. Does the wetland unit have the opportunity to provide habitat for many species?
H 2.1 Buffers (seep. 80) Figure
Choose the description that best represents condition of buffer of wetland unit_ The highest scoring
criterion that applies to the wetland is to be used in the rating. See text for definition of
"undisturbed. "
— 100 m(330ft)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
— 100 m(330 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas, or open water >
50% circumference.
— 50 in (170ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas, or open water>95%
-circumference. Points=4
— 100 m(330ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas,or open water>25%
Points=3
circumference, .
— 50 in (170ft)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 25 m(80ft)of wetland> 95%
circumference_ Light to moderate grazing,or lawns are OK_ Points=2
— No paved areas or 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(6.6ft) for more than 95%of the circumference(e.g_ tilled
fields,paving,basalt bedrock extend to edge of wetland Points=0.Points= 1
— Buffer does not meet any of the criteria above. of
Aerial 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 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) 6�)=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 50ft 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) �= 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 mi of a large field or pasture(>40 acres)OR
within I mi of a lake greater than 20 acres?
YES I o t NO= 0 points
Total for page 5
Wetland Rating Form-western Washington 15 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
H 2.3 Near or adjacent to other priority habitats listed by WDFW(seep. 82)
Which of the following priority habitats are within 330ft(100m)of the wetland unit?NOTE: the
connections do not have to be relatively undisturbed.
These are DFW definitions. Check with your local DFW biologist if there are any questions.
DC,Riparian: The area adjacent to aquatic systems with flowing water that contains elements of
both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems which mutually influence each other.
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater than 0.8 ha(2 acres).
Cliffs: Greater than 7.6 in(25 ft)high and occurring below 5000 ft.
Old-growth 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%;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.
Prairies: Relatively undisturbed areas(as indicated by dominance of native plants)where
grasses and/or forbs form the natural climax plant community.
Talus:Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.15-2.0 m(0.5 -6.5 ft),
composed of basalt,andesite,and/or sedimentary rock,including riprap slides and mine
tailings. May be associated with cliffs.
Caves:A naturally occurring cavity,recess,void,or system of interconnected passages
Oregon white Oak: Woodlands Stands of pure oak or oak/conifer associations where
canopy coverage of the oak component of the stand is 25%.
Urban Natural Open Space: A priority species resides within or is adjacent to the open
space and uses it for breeding and/or regular feeding;and/or the open space functions as a
corridor connecting other priority habitats,especially those that would otherwise be
isolated;and/or the open space is an isolated remnant of natural habitat larger than 4 ha(10
acres)and is surrounded by urban development.
Estuary/Estuary-like: Deepwater tidal habitats and adjacent tidal wetlands,usually semi-
enclosed by land but with open,partly obstructed or sporadic access to the open ocean,and
in which ocean water is at least occasionally diluted by freshwater runoff from the land.
The salinity may be periodically increased above that of the open ocean by evaporation.
Along some low-energy coastlines there is appreciable dilution of sea water.Estuarine
habitat extends upstream and landward to where ocean-derived salts measure less than
0.5ppt. during the period of average annual low flow.Includes both estuaries and lagoons.
Marine/Estuarine Shorelines: Shorelines include the intertidal and subtidal zones of
beaches,and may also include the backshore and adjacent components of the terrestrial
landscape(e.g.,cliffs,snags,mature trees,dunes,meadows)that are important to shoreline
associated fish and wildlife and that contribute to shoreline function (e.g.,sand/rock/log
recruitment,nutrient contribution,erosion control).
If wetland has 3 or more priority habitats=4 points
If wetland has 2 priority habitats—3 is
If wetland has I priority habitat of No habitats=0 points
Note:All vegetated wetlands are by definition a priority habitat but are not included in this
list. Nearby wetlands are addressed in question H2.4 _
Wetland Rating Form-western Washington 16 August 2004
version 2
Welland name or number _
H 2.4 Wetland Landscape (choose the one description of the landscape around the wetland that
best fits)(seep. 84)
There are at least 3 other wetlands within '/Z 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 he 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 `h mile points=5
There are at least 3 other wetlands within''/z mile,BUT the connections between them are
disturbed points=3
The wetland is Lake-fringe on a lake with disturbance and there are 3 other lake-fringe
wetland within '/,mile points=3
There is at least I wetland within 'h mile. points= 2
There are no wetlands within '/2 mile. points=0
H 2. TOTAL Score- opportunity for providing habitat
Add the scores firorn H2.1,H2.2, H2.3, H2.4
1 � 1
TOTAL for H I from page 14 .7
Total Score for Habitat Functions —add the points for H I, H 2 and record the result of (o
P.
Wetland Rating Form-western Washington 17 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Please determine if the wetland meets the attributes described below and circle the
appropriate answers and Category.
Wetland Type Category
Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. Circle the Category when the
appropriate criteria are met.
SC 1.0 Estuarine wetlands (seep. 86)
Does the wetland unit meet the following criteria for Estuarine wetlands?
— The dominant water regime is tidal,
— Vegetated,and
— With a salinity greater than 0.5 ppt.
YES= Go to SC 1.1 NO
SC 1.1 Is the wetland unit within a National Wildlife Refuge,National Park,
National Estuary Reserve,Natural Area Preserve, State Park or Educational, Cat. I
Environmental,or Scientific Reserve designated under WAC 332-30-151?
YES=Category I NO go to SC 1.2
SC 1.2 Is the wetland unit at least l acre in size and meets at least two of the
following three conditions? YES=Category I NO=Category II Cat. I
—The wetland is relatively undisturbed(has no diking,ditching, filling, Cat. II
cultivation,grazing,and has less than 10%cover of non-native plant
species. If the non-native Spartina spp. are the only species that cover
more than 10%of the wetland, then the wetland should be given a dual Dual
rating(I/II). The area of Spartina would be rated a Category II while the rating;
relatively undisturbed upper marsh with native species would be a I/II
Category I. Do not,however,exclude the area of Spartina in
determining the size thireshold of I acre.
—At least%of the landward edge of the wetland.has a 100 R buffer of
shrub,forest,or un-grazed or un-mowed grassland.
—The wetland has at least 2 of the following features:tidal channels,
depressions with open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands.
Wetland Rating Form-western Washington 18 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
SC 2.0 Natural Heritage Wetlands (seep. 87)
Natural Heritage wetlands have been identified by the Washington Natural Heritage Cat.1
Program/DNR as either high quality undisturbed wetlands or wetlands that support
state Threatened, Endangered, or Sensitive plant species.
SC 2.1 Is the wetland unit being rated in a Section/Township/Range that contains a
Natural Heritage wetland? (this question is used to screen out most sites
before you need to contact WNHP/DNR)
S/T/R information from Appendix D_ or accessed from WNHP/DNR web site
YES —contact WNHP/DNR(see p. 79)and go to SC 3.2 NO
SC 2.2 Has DNR identified the wetland as a high quality undisturbed wetland or as
or as a site with state threatened or endangered plant species?
YES = Category I NO
SC 3.0 Bogs (seep. 87)
Does the wetland unit (or any part of the unit) meet both the criteria for soils and
vegetation in bogs? Use the key below to identify if the wetland is a bog. If you
answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
1. Does the unit have organic soil horizons (Le_ layers of organic soil), either
peats or mucks, that compose 16 inches or more of the first 32 inches of the
soil profile? (See Appendix B for a field key to identify organic soils)?Yes-
go to Q. 3 No - go to Q. 2
2. Does the unit have organic soils, either peats or mucks that are less than 16
inches deep over bedrock,or an impermeable hardpan such as clay or
volcanic ash, or that are floating on a lake or pond?
Yes - go to Q. 3 No - Is not a bog for purpose of rating
3. Does the unit have more than 70%cover of mosses at ground level,AND
other plants, if present, consist of the"bog"species listed in Table 3 as a
significant component of the vegetation(more than 30%of the total shrub
and herbaceous cover consists of species in Table 3)?
Yes—Is a bog for purpose of rating No - go to Q. 4
NOTE: If you are uncertain about the extent of mosses in the understory
you may substitute that criterion by measuring the pH of the water that
seeps into a hole dug at least 16"deep. If the pH is less than 5.0 and the
"bog"plant species in Table 3 are present, the wetland is a bog.
I. Is the unit forested(> 30%cover)with sitka spruce,subalpine fir,western
red cedar,western hemlock, lodgepole pine, quaking aspen, Englemann's
spruce, or western white pine, WITH any of the species (or combination of
species) on the bog species plant list in Table 3 as a significant component
of the ground cover (> 30% coverage of the total shrub/herbaceous cover)?
2. YES= Category I No Is not a bog for purpose of rating Cat, l
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington 19 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
SC 4.0 Forested Wetlands (seep. 90)
Does the wetland unit have at least I acre of forest that meet one of these criteria for
the Department of Fish and Wildlife's forests as priority habitats? If you answer yes
you will still need to rate the wetland based on its functions.
— Old-growth forests: (west of Cascade crest)Stands of at least two tree species,
forming a multi-layered canopy with occasional small openings;with at least 8
trees/acre(20 trees/hectare)that are at least 200 years of age OR have a
diameter at breast height(dbh)of 32 inches (81 cm)or more.
NOTE: The criterion for dbh is based on measurements for upland forests.
Two-hundred year old trees in wetlands will often have a smaller dbh
because their growth rates are often slower. The DFW criterion is and"OR"
so old-growth forests do not necessarily have to have trees of this diameter.
Mature forests: (west of the Cascade Crest)Stands where the largest trees are
80—200 years old OR have average diameters(dbh)exceeding 21 inches
(53cm);crown cover may be less that 100%;decay, decadence, numbers of
snags,and quantity of large downed nnaterial is generally less than that found
in old-growth.
Cat. I
YES = Category I NO
SC 5.0 Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons (see pt. 91)
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland in a coastal lagoon?
— The wetland lies in a depression adjacent to marine waters that is wholly
or partially separated from marine waters by sandbanks,gravel banks,
shingle,or, less frequently,rocks
- - The lagoon in which the wetland is located contains surface water that is
saline or brackish(>0.5 ppt)duriing most of the year in at least a portion
of the lagoon(needs to be measured near the bottom)
YES=Go to SC 5.1 NO not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
SC 5.1 Does the wetland meets all of the following three conditions?
—The wetland is relatively undisturbed(has no diking,ditching, filling,
cultivation, grazing),and has less than 20%cover of invasive plant
species(see list of invasive species on p. 74).
— At least'/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 R buffer of
shrub,forest,or un-grazed or un-mowed grassland. Cat. I
— The wetland is larger than 1/10 acre(4350 square feet)
YES=Category I NO= Category II Cat. II
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington 20 August 2004
version 2
Wetland name or number
SC 6.0 Interdunal Wetlands (seep. 93)
Is the wetland unit west of the 1889 line (also called the Western Boundary of Upland
Ownership or WBUO)?
YES - go to SC 6.1 NO_not an interdunal wetland for rating
If you answer yes you will still need to rate the wetland based on its
functions.
In practical terms that means the following geographic areas:
• Long Beach Peninsula- lands west of SR 103
• Grayland-Westport- lands west of SR 105
• Ocean Shores-Copalis- lands west of SR 115 and SR 109
SC 6.1 Is the wetland one acre or larger, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is
once acre or larger?
YES = Category II NO—go to SC 6.2 Cat. II
SC 6.2 Is the unit between 0.1 and I acre, or is it in a mosaic of wetlands that is
between 0.1 and 1 acre?
YES= Category III Cat_III
Category of wetland based on Special Characteristics
Choose the "highest"rating if wetland falls into several categories, and record on
p. l
If you answered NO for all-L_Vpcg enter"Mot ApplicA10,104 .1
Wetland Rating Form-western Washington 21 August 2004
version 2
Mason County Resource Ordinance- Wetlands 17.01.070
AS APPROVED BY THE Board of County Commissioners- December 27, 2006
MASON COUNTY RESOURCE ORDINANCE
WETLANDS
17.01.070 WETLANDS
The purpose of this section is to avoid, or in appropriate circumstances, minimize, rectify, reduce
or compensate for impacts arising from land development and other activities affecting wetlands;
to maintain and enhance the biological and physical functions and values of wetlands with
respect to water quality maintenance; stormwater and floodwater storage and conveyance, fish
and wildlife habitat; primary productivity, recreation, education and historic and cultural
preservation_ When avoiding impacts is not reasonable, mitigation shall be implemented to
achieve a no net loss of wetlands in terms of acreage, function and value.
A. CLASSIFICATION
The following shaft be classified as wetland areas.-
Areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water 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. Wetlands
generally include swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas. However, wetlands may
include those artificial wetlands intentioi.31ly created from non-wetland areas created to
mitigate conversion of wetlands, if permitted by the county-of--may_
B. DESIGNATIONS
The following lands, shorelands and waters of Mason County are hereby designated
under RCW 36.70A_060 and RCW 36.70A.170, as critical areas requiring immediate
protection from incompatible land uses: Wetlands and their veget<atierr areabuffer as
specified by Section 17.01.070.E_
In making a determination regarding a wetland, Washington State Wetland Identification
and Delineation Manual (Ecology #96-94), or as amended hereafter, shall serve as the
technical resource guide on determining if an area possesses hydrophytic vegetation,
hydric soils, and/or wetland hydrology-
1. The following are designated as regulated wetlands under this Chapter-
a. All areas described in Section 17.01.070.A.-,
b. We4and pPonds less than twenty acres;
c_ Wetlands created as mitigation, and those modified for approved land
use activities, including their submerged aquatic beds.
2- The following are designated as non-regulated wetlands:
Artificial man made wetlands intentionally created from non-wettand sites,
including, but not limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass-lined swales,
canals, detention facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, farm ponds, and
landscape amenities or those wetlands created after July 1, 1990, that were
unintentionally created as a result of the construction of a road, street or
highway.
Ill-wetlands 3has�
10,000 7,500 square feet-
2006 RO- Wetlands Final.doc Page 1 of 23
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Mason County Resource Ordinance-Wetlands 17.01.070
a. Exempt wetlands that are isolated and less than 1,000 square feet in area where
it has been shown by the aaplicant that they are not associated with a riparian corridor,
they are not part of a wetland mosaic and do not contain habitat identified as essential for
local_populations of priority species identified by Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife.
b. No measures to avoid impacts for Category III and IV wetlands between 1,000
and 4,000 square feet are rmuired if they meet all the following criteria:
(1) Wetland is not associated with a riparian corridor, and
(2) Wettand is not part of a wetland mosaic. and
(33) Wetland does not score 20 points or greater for habitat in the 2004
Western Washington Rating System, and
A) Wetland does not contain habitat identified as essential for local
populations of priority species identified by Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife.
G. Impacts allowed under this provision to these wetlands will be fully mitigated as
required in mitigation section_
3. Owners and applicants with non-regulated wetlands are strongly urged to
cooperate volwitarif in ti..= pla.. of wetland protection, using the guidelines in .
this ordinance and in materials provided by the Department of Community
Development-
C. PROCEDURES
1. Responsibilities for the determination of wetland boundaries:
a. Formal determination of wetland boundaries is the responsibility of the
County. The responsibility to provide all necessary and accurate data to
the County for its determination rests with the applicant. This information
will include a field delineation by a qualified wetland professional
applying the Washington State Weiland Identification and Delineation
Manual(Ecology#96-94).or as amended hereafter.When, in the opinion
of the Director, sufficient information exists from the County's wetland
inventory, or other sources, the requirement for a full or partial
delineation may be waived. For instance, in some cases, the applicant
may only be required to determine the wetland boundary, or portion
thereof, of the wetland system. The Director shall determine when a
permit application is required and what additional information may be
necessary. Wetland delineations shall be performed in accordance with
the procedures as specified in the Washington State Wetland
Identification and Delineation Manual (Ecology #96-94), or as amended
hereafter_ Evidence documenting the results of any boundary survey, or
other submitted data, may be required by the Director.
b. Mason County, at a fee, when requested by the applicant, or the affected
party, may perform the delineation in lieu of direct action by the
applicant_ Mason County may use hydrology, soils, plant species, and
other data, and consult with biologists, hydrologists, soil scientists, or
other experts, as needed, to perform the delineation. The County shall
make a good faith effort to provide this service, consistent vVith budgetary
constraints and available in-house expertise, for smaller projects and
especially for those property owners with lesser financial capabilities.
C. Where Mason County performs a wetland boundary determination at the
request of the applicant, it shall be considered a final determination
unless contested.
2006 RO- Wetlands Final.doc Page 2 of 23
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Mason County Resource Ordinance- Wetlands 17.01.070
d. Where the applicant has provided a determination of the wetland
boundary, the Director shall verify the accuracy of, and may render
adjustments to, the boundary delineation.
e. In the event the boundary delineation is contested by the applicant or
affected party, the Department of Ecology, or a mutually agreed upon
party, shall settle the dispute.
D_ LAND USES
1. Mason Environmental Permit Required Uses and Activities
A Mason Environmental Permit shall be obtained from the County, using the
administrative review process in this Chapter, prior to undertaking, in a regulated
wetland or its vegetation-areabuffer,for the fotlowing activities.
a_ In all regulated wetlands, the removal, excavation, grading, dredging.
dumping, discharging, or filling of any material; or the draining or flooding
of the site, except where undertaken for maintenance (but not
construction) of drainage ditches or for emergency repair;
b_ The construction of stormwater management facilities;or
c_ The driving of pilings;
d. The placing of obstructions;
e. The construction, reconstruction, demolition, or expansion of any
structure;
f_ The destruction or alteration of wetlands and wetland vegetation
ar-eabuffer through clearing, harvesting, shading, intentional burning, or E
planting of vegetation that would alter the character of a designated
wetland or vegetation-areabuffer, provided that this subsection shall not
apply to the following activities undertaken in a manner which minimizes
impacts:
(1) The harvesting or normal maintenance of vegetation in a manner
that is not injurious to the natural reproduction of such
vegetation;
(2) The removal or eradication of noxious weeds so designated in
Chapter 17.10 RCW or other exotic, nuisance plants;
(3) Site investigative work necessary for land use application
submittals such as surveys, soil fogs and percolation tests;
(4) The construction or trails which shall be unpaved when located
in the buffers and elevated when located in wetlands, which arc-
not intended for motorized use, and which are no wider than
three (3) feet, unless additional width is necessary for safety
along a precipice, steep hillside, or other hazardous area. See
section 17 01 070E 6 c for additional details on regulated (but
permitted) trail activity.
(5) Emergency services or repairs for health and welfare; or
(6) Activities of a mosquito control district.
(7) The removal of a danger tree, provided that such removal is
mitigated by planting in the vicinity of the removed tree a total of
six (6) new trees, each of a minimum three(3)feet in height and
each of the same species or native species as the removed tree_
If the replacement tree planting is judged to be unnecessary to
replace the canopy structure of a vegetation area, the Director
may request the applicant leave or place the danger tree within
the vegetation area as habitat-
9. Activities that result in a significant change of water temperature, a
significant change of physical or chemical characteristics of wetlands
water sources, including quantity, or the introduction of pollutants.
2006 RO- Wetlands Final.doc Page 3 of23
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Mason County Resource Ordinance-Wetlands 17.01.070
2. Activities Permitted without a Mason Environmental Permit
The following uses shall be allowedL in addition to those defined in General
Exemptions (see Section 17.01.130). within a wetland or wetland vegetatioR
aFeabuffer to the extent that they are not prohibited by the Shorelines
Management ACT of 1971 (Chapter 90.58 RCW), Federal Water Pollution
Control Act(Clean Water ACT), State Water Pollution Control Act(Chapter 90.48
RCW), State Hydraulic Code (RCW 75.20.100-.140), Forest Practices Act
(Chapter 76.09 RCW and Chapter 222-16 WAC) or any other applicable
ordinance or law and provided they are conducted using best management
practices, except where such activities result in the conversion of a regulated
wetland or wetland vegetation aFeabuffer to a use to which it was not previously
subjected and provided further that forest practices and conversions from forest
land shall be governed by Chapter 76-09 RCW and its rules:
a_ Conservation or preservation of soil, water, vegetation. fish, shellfish,
and other wildlife;
b. Outdoor recreational activities that do not have a significant adverse
impact on the wetland and its related vegetation ar- buffer;
c. The harvesting of wild crops in a manner that is not injurious to natural
reproduction of such crops and provided the harvesting does not require
tilling of soil, planting of crops. or alteration of the wetland by changing
existing topography, water conditions or water resources;
d. Existing and ongoing agricultural activities, including farming,
horticulture, aquaculture, irrigation, ranching or grazing of animals.
Activities on areas lying fallow as part of a conventional rotational cycle
are part of an ongoing operation_ Activities which bring an area into
agricultural use are not part of an ongoing operation. An operation
ceases to be ongoing when the area in which it was conducted has been _
converted to another use or has lain idle
for more than
five years unless that idle land is registered in a federal or state soils
conservation program. Forest practices,are not included in this definition.
e. The maintenance(but not construction)of drainage ditches;
f. Education,scientific research, and use of nature trails;
g. Site investigative work necessary for land use application submittals
such as surveys, soil logs, percolation tests and other related activities.
In every case, wetland impacts shall be minimized and disturbed areas
shall be immediately restored; and
h. The following uses are allowed within wetlands and/or wetland
vegetation areabuffer, provided that any required permits or approvals
are obtained and further provided that wetland impacts are minimized
and that disturbed areas are immediately restored_
(1) Normal maintenance, trepair, or operation of existing serviceable
structures, facilities, or improved areas. Maintenance and repair
does not include any modification that changes the character,
scope, or.size of the original structure, facility, or improved area
and does not include the construction of a maintenance road;
and
(2) Minor modification of existing serviceable structures within a
vegetatioR are buffer zone where modification does not
adversely impact wetland functions.
(3) Repair or reconstrucbiion of damaged or destroyed structures
within two years of the damage or destruction.
r
2006 RO - Wetlands Final.doc Page 4 of 23
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Mason County Resource Ordinance- Wetlands 17.01.070
E. DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
1. Wetlands Rating System
A four-tier wetlands rating system is hereby adopted as the rating system for
Mason County. Wetlands vegetation areabuffer widths wetland activities and
replacement ratios shalt be based on this rating system.
Procedures for applying the wetland rating system are set forth in the
Washington State Wetfand Rating System for Westem Washington, revised
2004 or as amended hereafter. Washington State Department
of Ecology
a. Wetlands shall be categorized as follows:
Table 17.01.070 A
11 Category 1 Wetiands Category I wetlands are those regulated wettands that
include but are not limited to rare unique wetland types that are more
sensitive to disturbance than most wetlands and that contain ecological
attributes that are impossible to replace within a human lifetime_ Category I
wetlands score 70 points or more out of 100 on the wetlands ratings
items.
2) Category It Wetlands Category 11 wetlands are those regulated wetlands
that score between 51-69 points out of 100 on the wetlands ratings systern.
3) Category III Wetlands Category III wetlands are those regulated wetlands
that score between 30-50 points on the wetlands ratings system.`
_ 4) Category IV Wetlands Category tV wetlands are those regulated wetlands
that score less than 30 points out of 100 on the wetlands ratings system_'
5) Wetlands intentionapy created from non-wetland areas to mitigate conversion
of other wetlands.
6) Mosaic wetlands as defined in 17.01.240.
'Non-Regulated Wetlands Isolated wetlands under 1.000 square feet which are
not associated with a riparian corridor, not part of a wetland mosaic and not
essential habitat of a priority species as identified by the W ashington Department
of Fish and Wildlife.
Please refer to Appendix A w the Department of Ecology publication
for more information.
tT€
C,ategoFt if it meeti; any one of the fol���
--- Thewetlar�d fisted-Threater►ed-er €ranQered
P�►�
?— 0 the Washir►qter? Nafi wal Heritage-Pregr2r+va6-a high qua4+4y
3 doc�urmen4ed 4a cer+4air� r
senEentfatienw,.
4-----aMe4lands-that eaE�4ogic t fur+ctier '
--Bogs and dens
AAa4E►r�fQres4ec�we4and
rife
€6Igrass-arid kelp beds -- — - --
2006 RO - Wetlands F►nal.doc Page 5 of 23
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Mason County Resource Ordinance- Wetlands 17.01.070
QAA of
4ouQ4
4. Wetlands with Gign'4GaRl habitat value (Gf&atef�- to 22 peiRt&--o�
(A wetland is consid-ered- -a-r-af-g III it It FneetS- none criteria ARd+frr►eets
any oRe Of thfaW—lloypin
�. equal to or less than 21 POiRtS OR
2. entified
a�ateger�r�4 �etland efeEaf s ig�
3- •
LANQS
{A wetland Gerrg
4— - -of one-plant 4ayer
dominated0
Ssief►IIII- Name---- Qornme�n Name
-SpiFea dougi'a6ii -
Typha lat"ia
2— 0.1pWind.
x pLands witt►eat a
surface
' erg t�l�este
2 Wetland Buffers
a Standard--Vegetalkwr-Afe�aBuffer Widths.
Wetland buffers shall be required for all regulated wetlands. Any wetland
created, restored, or enhanced as compensation for approved wetland
alterations shall also include a ttae- standard vegetation-ar$abuffer
required for the category of the created, restored, or enhanced wetland.
The buffer widths are established by adjusting a base width for the
category of wetland at the site for the habitat value as scored by the
wetland rating system and for the land use intensity of the proposed
activity. All buffers shad be measured horizontally from the wetland
boundary as surveyed it-*the field-
The width of the wetland vegeaatoA --afeabuffer shall be determined by
the following process:
1) The wetland is categorized according to wetland ratings system
category as shown in Table 17.01.070 A:
2) Table 17,01.070 B rates examples of different land uses for intensity
of impacts to wetlands.
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Mason County Resource Ordinance—Wetlands 17.01.070
3) The width of the buffer is determined based on the habitat value
scored by the wetland on the wetland rating system and on the land
use intensity of the ►roposed use as shown in Tables 17.01.070 C,
D, E. or F.
0 MO.
125 fee
IV
t
RMEMEN
a t H1,,,, 1,1,L;
Table 17 01 070 B. Ratings of impact from land uses
High
Commercial Urban Industrial Institutional Retail Sales, Residential
subdivisions with more than i undacre New agriculture (high-intensity
processing such as dairies nurseries and green houses, raising and harvesting
crops requiring annual tilling raising and maintaining animals) New
transportation corridors High intensity recreation (g(>lf courses,ball fields)
hobby farms
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Mason County Resource Ordinance—Wetlands 17.01.070
Moderate
Single-fam*v residential tots, residential subdivisions with 1 unitiacre or less
Moderate-Intensity Open Space(parks), New agriculture (moderate-intensity
such as orchards and hay fields) Transportation Linhancement proiects
Low
Forestry, Open space(low-intensity such as passive recreation and natural
resources preservation, minor transportation improvements)
Table 17.01.070 C:Width of buffer-required to protect Category IV wetlands.
Score for functions <30 points Low
Moderate-40 feet
Hi h-50 feet
Table 17.01.070 D: Width of buffels-required to protect Category III wetlands. Wedands
scorwna etween 30 and 50 points on the wetlands ra ina System
f
Moderate level of function for habitat Low-75 feet
(score for habitat is 20-28 pts.)
Moderate-110 feetfeet
High-. 150 feet
Cateqory III wetlands not meeting , Low 40 fee
above criteria (score for habitat is less Moderate-UAW
Hi h- $0 feet
Table 17.01.070 E: Width of Buffers required to protect Category 11 wetlands. Wetlands
scoring between 51 and 69 points on the wetlands ratinq system.
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Mason County Resource Ordinance-Wetlands 17.01.070
High level of function for habitat Low- 150 feet
(score for habitat is 29-36 pts.) Moderate-.200 feet
High-225 feet
Moderate level of function for habitat Low-_75 feet
(score for habitat is 20-28 pts.) Moderate-110 feet
.` I High-1,50-feW
High level of function for water quality
improvement Low 75-fW
and low for habitat(score water quality is Moderate-9 GAL
24-32 pts and habitat is less than 20)
Hi -100_fit
Estuarine Low-35_ed
Moderate 110 Lee
High-
Category II wetlands not meeting above criteria Low- 50 feet
Moderate-75 feet
High-
Table 1T 01 070 F• Width of Buffers required to protect Category 1 wetlands.Wetlands
Natural Heritage Wetlands and Bogs Low-12 JtwA
- Moderate- 190 feet
High -250 feet
Forested Buffer size to be based on score for habitat
functions or water quality functions see below
; Estuarine Wetlands in Coasts�L1� 9Q4a� tow- 100 feet
Moderate-ZOO feet
High -?-50 feet
High level of function for habitat (score for
habitat Low- 150 feet
is 29-36 pts.} Moderate-22 �t
Hi h - 0_feat
Moderate level of function for habitat (score for Low- 75 feet
habitat is 20-28� Moderate- 110 feet
- - High --700 feet--- - ----- -
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• I
Mason County Resource Ordinance-Wetlands 17.01.070
High level of function for water Quality
tmnrovement LOMMAW
(WQI)(score is 24-32)and !ow for habitat
score Moderate- 75 fee
for habitat is less than 20 points)
High- 100 feet
Category I wetlands not meeting any of the
above Low 50 feet
criteria Moderate-75 fee
Hi h-100 feet
On site sewage disposal draiAfieldi - 100 feet
feF Categei y -
3. Increased Wetland Buffer VegetatieR-Asea Width
The Administrator shall require increased standard vegetatieR areabuffer widths
or may require other conditions be placed on the development on a case-by-case
basis whennecessary to protect wetland functions
and values based on local conditions. This determination shalt be supported by
appropriate documentation showing that it is reasonably related to protection of
the functions and values of the regulated wetland. Such determination shall be
attached as a permit condition and shall demonstrate that:
a) A larger vegetatkm-aFeabuffer is necessary to maintain viable populations or
critical habitat of threatened or endangered species living within the subject
wetlands)boundaries; or
b) The adjacent land is susceptible to severe erosion and erosion control
measures otherwise required will not effectively prevent adverse wetland
impacts;or
c) There are other nearby wetlands or critical areas and adiustments to the
buffers would prevent fragmentation of the habitat or is otherwise if the
widths will only be doRe necessary to preserve the structure, function
and value of the weffand�or:
d) The buffer is poorly vegetated due to lack of vegetation or invasive or non-
native species being the dominant cover. Conditions would include
enhancement of the area, a larner buffer, or both.
4. Wetland Vegetation AreaBuffer Width Averaging
The boundary of the vegetation-areabuffer may be modified by averaging
vegetatieR areabuffer widths. if vegetatien ar-eabuffer averaging is used, the
following conditions must be met:
a. The total area contained in the vegetation areabuffer after averaging
shall be no less than that contained within the vegetation areabuffer prior
to averaging_In other words, mitigation for buffer impacts will be on a
minimum of a 1: 1 ratio; and
b. Vegetatien a Buffer averaging will incorporate site conditions to
the wettand_to provide measures to increase the functions and values of
the wetland buffer beyond what is currently in place; and i
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Mason County Resource Ordinance—Wetlands 17.01.070
G. In no instance shalt the vegetatioR areabuffer width be reduced to less {
than '/.of the required width for each of the wetland Categories. 100 feet
5. Wetland Buffer Reduction
The width of the buffer may be reduced for proposed land uses with hicit- `
intensity impacts under the following conditions:
a. For wetlands that score moderate or hiqh for habitat (20 points or more
for the habitat fmctions), the width of the buffer may be reduced to that
required for moderate-intensity impacts provided that:
(1) A relatively undisturbed veqetated area corridor at least 1O0-feet
wide is protected between the wetland and any other Prioritir
HaNtats as defined by the Washington State Department of Fish and
Wildlife Protection of the corridor shall be assured by a conservation
easement.
(2) Measures to minimize the impacts of the land use shall be ap,plied.
Examples of these measures are shown in Table X_
b For wetlands that score less than 20 points for habitat the buffee-width
can be reduced to that re
nuired for moderate-impact land uses Rrovided
that measures to minimize the impacts of the land use shall be ±ppfied._
Examples of these measures are shown in Table X_
r
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Mason County Resource Ordinance—Wetlands 17.01.070
(New Table)
TABLE X Examples of measures to reduce impacts to wretlands.
Zights a Pariong lots a Direct hobs away from wetland
Warcltouaes
Manufacturing
Residential
Noise a Mamafaetoring a Locate actLnity that generates noise away
a Residential from we8ased
Tonic ru wff* a Parking lots a Route all new,untreated nano$away from
a Roads wetland urine enmring wetland is not
. Idanuheturing dewateaed
Residential areas a Establish cav naafi Iimiting use of
pesticide wid"n 1l50 ft of wetland
Application of agricultural
pesticides a Apply inwWaftd pest management
• Landscaping
Stormwaler a Parking lots a Retrofit stuff detention and treatment
nmoff a Roads far reads and existing adjacent
a manufacturing dex.-t-kq lei
a Residential areas a P,e-Ant cluniumlized Row from laums that
directly enterstlae buMr
Conmerria[
a Landscaping
Change in a Impermeable surfaces a Itnfiltrate oir taeK detain,and disperse into
water regime a Lawns buffer new runoff from impervious
a Tilling surfaces and new lawns
Pets and a Residential areas a Use privacy Smcin&plant dense vegetation
human to deliuesme buffer edge and to discourage
disturbance disturbmwe using vegetation appropriate
for the eearegion;place wetland and its
_ buffer ita a separate tract
Dust a Tilled fields . Use best raaoragement practices to control
dust
*These examples are not necessarily adequate for nuni mnug toxic ruaoUif ttbr ateaed or endangered
species are present at the site.
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