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HomeMy WebLinkAboutWetland Delineation Report - PLN General - 9/26/2008 THE WETLAND CO"S Wetland Delineation - Habitat Management Plans - Riparian Restoration - Mitigation - Biological Evaluation September 26`h,2008 Mason County Department of Community Development PO Box 186 Shelton,WA 98584 Re: Parcel223107990734 To Reviewing Planner; This letter has been written to address the error associated with the rating of the Lake-Fringe Wetland on the above referenced parcel, associated with Blacksmith Lake. The wetland is identified in the report titled Knuth Wetland Delineation Report, prepared by the Wetland Corps in September, 2008. The report addresses this wetland as scoring 49 points on the state rating form, meeting criteria feet for Category III Wetland with moderate habitat function and requiring a 110-foot buffer with an additional 15-foot building setback in Mason County. The error in the report concerns the habitat rating assigned to that wetland, which was evaluated to total 23 points on the state rating form. However, question H.1.5 on the state rating form, regarding special habitat features, asks the consultant to calculate the habitat features present within the wetland based on a list of six specific habitat features that could be present in a wetland. Each listed habitat feature that is present within a wetland adds one point to the habitat score of that wetland. One of these listed habitat features is the presence of signs of recent beaver activity (cut shrubs or trees that have not yet turned grey/brown). This habitat feature was not counted in the rating form, but is present within the onsite wetland and should be added to the final habitat rating for the wetland. Therefore, the final habitat score for the lake-fringe wetland located on the Knuth property is 24 points, totaling the final score of the wetland to 50 points. Wetland scoring 50 points on the state rating form, scoring between 20 and 28 points in habitat function meet criteria for Category III Wetlands, requiring a 110-foot buffer with an additional 15-foot building setback. The correction of this error does not change the category, level of habitat function, or buffer assigned to the wetland. However, it is important that the county notes this correction for future projects located in proximity to the onsite lake-fringe wetland, to ensure an accurate and consistent calculation of the wetland rating. In conclusion, the rating and buffer of the wetland continue to be a Category III Wetland with moderate habitat function, requiring a 110-foot buffer with an additional 15-foot building setback. If you have any questions, feel free to call. Respectfully submitted, The Wetland Corps "r'_Z'6w Heather Lark' Staff Wetland Specialist Lee Boad Senior Ecologist PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com AV THE WETLAND CORPS �' Wetland Delineation - Habitat Management Plans - Riparian Restoration • Mitigation - Biological Evaluation KNUTH WETLAND DELINEATION REPORT Parcel 223107990734 50 NE Lakeway Drive South Belfair,Washington Mason County Prepared for: Kevin & Teresa Knuth 16830 SE 43rd Street Issaquah,WA 98027 Prepared by: Lee Boad and Heather Lane September,2008 PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528-Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com AV THE WETLAND CORPS -fir Wetland Delineation - Habitat Management Plans - Riparian Restoration - Mitigation - Biological Evaluation KNUTH WETLAND DELINEATION REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 1 GENERALSITE CONDITIONS................................................................................................ I METHODOLOGY .......................................................................................................................2 BACKGROUNDINFORMATION ............................................................................................ 3 WETLANDDELINEATION RESULTS................................................................................... 3 WETLANDEVALUATION............................................................................................................................6 WETLANDCONCLUSION........................................................................................................6 REFERENCES.............................................................................................................................. 8 Figures Figure 1. Site Vicinity Map Figure 2. Wetland Boundary Map Figure 3. National Wetland Inventory Map Figure 4. Mason County Soil Survey Map Figure 5. Department of Natural Resources Water Resource Map Annendices Appendix A. Routine Wetland Determination Data Forms Appendix B. Soil Survey Text Appendix C. Washington State Wetland Rating System Form PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528-Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com Ar THE WETLAND CORPS Wetland Wineation • Habitat Management Plans • Riparian Restoration - Mitigation • Biological Evaluation September, 2008 Project#TWC08W55 Page 1 of 16 KNUTH WETLAND DELINEATION REPORT 50 NE Lake Drive South Belfair,WA INTRODUCTION The Wetland Corps has been authorized by Kevin Knuth to perform a wetland delineation at the above referenced property located in Belfair, Mason County, Washington, (Tax Identification Number 223107990734). The delineation was performed to identify wetlands and associated buffers that extend onto the subject property. The delineation was completed September 8ffi, 2008. The property is located in the southwest quarter of Section 04, Township 23 North, Range 02 West WM(Figure 1 Vicinity Map). The entire ownership is 1.14 acres in size. For the purposes of federal, Washington State, and Mason County jurisdictional oversight, methodology used for the wetland delineation is consistent with the wetland definition provided in paragraph 25a of the Washington State Wetlands Identification and Delineation Manual (Washington State Department of Ecology, 1997). The sections below provide: (1) an introduction to the site; (2) a description of methods used in the field delineation; and, (3)technical results. GENERAL SITE CONDITIONS The ownership is accessed via NE Lake Drive South, which also makes up the southeastern parcel boundary. The property is rectangular in shape, and spans approximately 540 feet from Lake Drive South northwesterly to the boundary of the wetland that is associated with Blacksmith Lake. Blacksmith Lake occupies approximately 24 acres and contains a fringe of shrub, emergent and aquatic hydrophytic vegetation along the outer fringe of open water within the southern half of the lake. Given the size of the Lake(greater than 20 acres), the open water portion is regulated as a Lake over 20 acres. However, the presence of hydrophytic vegetation growing within seasonally and permanently flooded areas surrounding the open water, meet Mason County criteria for a regulated Lake-fringe wetland. Residential parcels of similar size and shape border the ownership to the north and south. An existing road grade enters the east portion of the ownership from NE Lake Drive South, and continues northwest to access the central portion of the parcel. A SFR is located within the northwestern half of the parcel, with the concrete patio extending to 130 feet from the delineated lake-fringe wetland edge. Topography within the property slopes gently to the northwest down toward the lake. PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528-Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com Knuth Wetland Delineation TWC08-W55 September,2008 Page 2 of 7 The ownership consists of upland forested areas comprised of Douglas fir, western red cedar, western white pine, and beach pine with an understory of salal, brackenfern, evergreen huckleberry, Oregon grape and swordfern. The wetland vegetation is confined to the outer fringe of the open water, and consists of spirea, slough sedge, willow, and yellow pond lily extending approximately 20-40 feet into the open water. METHODOLOGY Review of Existing Information Consistent with procedures detailed in the Washington State Wetlands Identification and Delineation Manual (Washington State Department of Ecology, 1997) (1997 Manual), preliminary information was gathered on the project site prior to the field review and delineation. General information sources included: United States Geological Service (USGS) topographic maps, 1974 United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps, the Soil Survey of Mason County Area, Washington(USDA, 1951), and Mason County's critical areas regulations. Field Delineation Methodology used for wetland delineation was consistent with the technical approaches articulated in the 1997 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 on September 8t', 2008. Field work was conducted under sunny skies with an ambient temperature ranging between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The time of year and recent precipitation history were considered in assessing the extent of the suspect wetland presumed to exist on site. 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 delineated with (lagging 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. PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528-Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com Knuth Wetland Delineation TWC08-W55 September,2008 Page 3 of 7 The project area was investigated and data was collected at two sample plot locations. Data collected at each sample plot were entered onto a Routine Wetland Determination Data Form (Washington State Department of Ecology 1997). Copies of data forms for each sample plot are provided in Appendix A. BACKGROUND INFORMATION Mason County Soil Survey The soil survey of Mason County indicates four onsite soil types, (USDA, 1951): Ab- Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 5 to 15 percent slopes. The Alderwood series consists of brown, well-drained, upland soils. They have developed from mixed gravelly glacial till dominated by acid igneous rock. The imbedded gravel is mainly granite and quartzite. Rainfall is 45 to 60 inches a year. The native vegetation is a dense forest consisting almost entirely of Douglas-fir and a dense understory of salal, Oregon-grape, vine maple, and huckleberry. Northeast of the Hood Canal the understory is mainly rhododendron. Alderwood soils occupy the extensive rolling glacial moraines, and they are the dominant soils in the eastern part of the county. The Alderwood soils are associated with the somewhat excessively drained Everett and Indianola soils and with the moderately well drained Kitsap soils. The Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 5 to 15 percent slopes (Ab) is the most extensive, soil of the Alderwood series. It occupies undulating to rolling moraines. Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 15 to 30 percent slopes (Ac).-This soil varies more in depth, but otherwise it is similar to Alderwood gravelly sandy loams, 5 to 15 percent slopes. Mg Mukilteo peat, 0 to 2 percent slopes The Mukilteo series consists of peat that is mainly partly decomposed sedges, spirea, twigs, and roots. Peat bogs usually are densely covered by spirea and are generally free of trees and other shrubs. Intermixed with the spires are various sedges that form a good part, of the peat material. Occasionally, Mukilteo peat has a cover of deciduous trees, brush, and shrubs in place of the spirea. Mukilteo peat is widespread throughout the county, and it comprises the largest part of the upland bogs. This peat is very poorly drained and often ponded many months of the year. Artificial drainage can be used to remove excess moisture. Mukilteo peat is more acid and less fertile than McMurray peat. Mukilteo peat, 0 to 2 percent slopes (Mg).- This soil is strongly acid. It is saturated throughout the year and is difficult to drain. This soil is in capability subclass IIIw.A more detailed description of this soil can be found in the Mason County Soil Survey Text(1951). W-Water. This classification is assigned to open water areas such as Blacksmith Lake. National Wetlands Inventory The USFWS NWI map (online wetlands mapper) shows the onsite wetland mapped within the approximate property location (Figure 3. National Wetland Inventory Map). PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528-Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421•boad40@peoplepc.com Knuth Wetland Delineation TWC08-W55 September,2008 Page 4 of 7 The wetland is classified by the NWI as [L] Lacustrine [1] Limnetic [UB] Unconsolidated Bottom [H] Permanently flooded. Department of Natural Resources Water Resource The Department of Natural Resources Water Resource Map shows no streams within the immediate vicinity of the ownership. The nearest stream is mapped south of the parcel location, and is the outlet for Blacksmith Lake. Three other streams are mapped to drain into the northern end of Blacksmith Lake,one of which is mapped as fishbearing. WETLAND DELINEATION RESULTS A wetland associated with Blacksmith Lake was identified within the northwestern portion of the subject property, and is flagged with pink ribbon labeled WETLAND DELINEATION. The entire wetland wraps around the southern end of Blacksmith Lake, and appears to occupy approximately 3 acres. The wetland is generally comprised of three vegetative classes, comprised of a shrub community of spirea and willows along the landward edge of the wetland, then transitioning to a herb dominated community waterward of the shrubs, and finally an aquatic bed of lily pad extending into the open water. The wetland is supported by the seasonal fluctuation of the lake, in addition to receiving some surface runoff from surrounding topography and a fluctuating water table. Photo 1.Shrub/herbaceous vegetation along outer fringe of open water. PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421•boad40@peoplepc.com Knuth Wetland Delineation TWC08-W55 September,2008 Page 5 of 7 Photo 2. Blacksmith Lake,looking south from the subject property. Vey,etation The portion of the wetland within the property generally contains three classes of vegetation. The first class is a dense shrub layer of willows (Salix sp., FACW) spirea (Spiraea douglasii, FACW) with lesser amounts of red alder (Alnus rubra, FAQ and willows (Salix sp.), located at the outermost extent of the wetland boundary. The second class of vegetation is the shrub community which consists of a dense herbaceous community of slough sedge (Carex obnupta, OBL) and reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea, FACW). The third vegetation class is an emergent community of yellow pond lily(Nuphar luteum, OBL), located further waterward of the herbaceous community and extending into the open water. The upland vegetation adjacent to the wetland is comprised of planted Douglas fir (Pseudolsuga menziesii, FACU) with lesser amounts of beach pine (Pinus contorta, FAQ and western white pine (Pinus monticola). Understory species consist of salal (Gaultheria shallon, FACU), evergreen huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum, FACU), brackenfern (Pteridium aquilinum, FACU), swordfern (Polystichum munitum, FACU), Oregon grape (Mahonia nervosa, UPL) and evergreen blackberry (Rubus lacianatus, FACU). Portions of the upland have been restored in the last 5-10 years with the above mentioned vegetation and madrones(Arbutus menziesii, FACU). Soils The wetland test pits consist of muck with matrix chroma 10YR 3/1 to a depth of 12 inches. This is consistent with the mapped soil type, Mukilteo Peat. Mukilteo Peat(Mg) is listed on the 2008 National Hydric Soils List. Wetland hydric soil is indicated by a matrix chroma equaling one and the presence of a listed hydric soil. Test pits along the fringe of the wetland consisted of dark sandy loam with medium mottling within the upper 12-inches. PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528-Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com Knuth Wetland Delineation TWC08-W55 September,2008 Page 6 of 7 The soil profiles observed in known upland test pits were consistent with the mapped soil type, Alderwood gravelly sandy loam. Upland test pits exhibited a two-layer soil profile. The upper layer consists of gravelly sandy loam approximately five to eight inches deep of matrix chroma 10YR 3/3 and 3/4. The lower profile contained less gravel with a matrix chroma of 10 YR 6/3 and 10YR 6/4. No hydric soil indicators were present in upland soil test pits. Hydrology Hydrology was indicated by FAC-neutral vegetation, drift lines, drainage patterns, sediment deposits, presence of a listed hydric soil (Mukilteo peat: Mg), and water-stained leaves. In addition, the test pits revealed soil saturation, inundation and free water in the test pits during the growing season. On the day of the field visit, nearly all the wetland was inundated. Upland test pits showed no indicators of wetland hydrology. WETLAND EVALUATION The onsite wetland meets criteria for a Lake-Fringe wetland associated with Blacksmith Lake, based on functions per Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington (Hruby 2004) for the purposes of rating. 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 49 points on the state rating form. The score for water quality functions in this wetland is 18, hydrological functions scored 8, and the score for habitat functions is 23. According to Table 17.01.070 D of the Mason County Resource Ordinance, the base buffer width for Category III Wetlands scoring between 20 to 28 points in habitat function, within parcels intended for Moderate Impact Land Use require a base buffer width of 110 feet with an additional 15=foot building setback. Moderate Impact Land Use is described in Table 17.07.070 B of the Mason County Resource Ordinance as single-family residential lots or residential subdivisions with 1 unit/acre or less. SUMMARY This report discusses the presence of a Category III Lake-Fringe Weiland within the subject property. The wetland requires a buffer of I I0-feet with an additional 15-foot building setback in Mason County. All construction including the concrete patio has been positioned outside of the wetland buffer and associated building setback. See Figure 2. Site Map for the approximate wetland and associated buffer location within the property. PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528-Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com Knuth Wetland Delineation TWC08-W55 September,2008 Page 7 of 7 Thank you for choosing The Wetland Corps as your environmental consultant. If you have any questions, feel free to call. Respectfully submitted, The Wetland Corps " Li�7— Heather Lane Staff Wetland Specialist Lee Boad Senior Ecologist PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com Knuth Wetland Delineation TWC08-W55 September,2008 Page 8 of 7 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 Pierce County Area, Washington. September, 1977. 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 Belfair,Washington 98528-Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com topmne .. 1: - :a'w1 IVAM 4 Y wfu 6a. It Y_ 1� {'i Approximate Parcel M Bear Creek-Dewatto Road Location Ih .tea .'t 1 �.`•�. S"l �.. f r '� Lah4Yl 4 p `'/".` ' 'J.�'�` IT ( .I 'tiff} 0! La. .. _•��-� �� � Hsi i }l � P- M:.kf ? I �i • J ,r • / 8 y o: i n': N 0 l mile I>; Aa Y71 Flu��1� 4 �f^�} J I 1 _.—•le'} - �.. j ��� �.':�' FIGURE I VICINITY MAP Project Name: Knuth Wetland Location: Belfair,Washington Project: TWC08-W55 Client: Kevin&Teresa Knuth THE WETLAND CORPS Date: 09/08 / This site map was created by TWC by Blacksmith Lake / / coordinating measurements and information from several U 100' County Assessor sources, including Aerial Photo the Mason nand GoogleEarth aerial images and measurements. "'• / / All locations are approximate. 110' Category III lake-Fringe Wetland /5' / 110' buffer + 15' building setba / Existin SFR NE Lake Drive South 01 00 i #0 Subject 00 10 00 00 .00 Parcel 0#0 00 i 00 00 ♦ 40 N 00, FIGURE 2. SITE MAP Project Name: Knuth Wetland Location: Belfair,Washington Project: TWCO8-W55 1 Client: Kevin & Teresa Knuth THE W FTL_Zi N D CO R P-S Date: 09/08 Map Legend P6B1A8F1ti, I""I P55A * PFOC � CONUS Cities k � °r- O CONUS States SO41K �1 — , PABH Lower 4B Wetland Polygons N PFOA p5SC er ` • E►tvarrne and Marino DeepwatN PE}YVSSC 91 P E h4H Q Estuarine and Marine Weiland { �S P Freshwater Emergent Wetland 4"'Y' d7 Freshwater Forested'Shrub Wetland Ono Freshwater Pond 5 PUBH a Lake Other , liiverme j•'' � LiL6H PAB.CEM H { Approximate r` Vv,,shington Parcel Location L2ABiUBH Lake-Wooten LZABFI _ n_- Figure adapted from NWI Figure 3 National Wetland Inventory Map Mapper website Section 10 Township 23 North Range 2 West FIGURE 3 NWI MAP Project Name: Knuth Wetland Location: Belfair,Washington Project: TWC08-W55 Client: Kevin & Teresa Knuth THE WETLAND CORPS Date: 09/08 , AV + Approximate Parcel Location r •1 I Onsite Soil Conditions based on Mason County Soil Survey Subject Site Soils: Ab-Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 5 to 15 percent slopes. The Alderwood series consists of brown, well-drained, upland soils. They have developed from mixed gravelly glacial till dominated by acid igneous rock. The imbedded gravel is mainly granite and quartzite. Rainfall is 45 to 60 inches a year. The native vegetation is a dense forest consisting almost entirely of Douglas-fir and a dense understory of salal, Oregon-grape, vine maple, and huckleberry. Northeast of the Hood Canal the understory is mainly rhododendron. Alderwood soils occupy the extensive rolling glacial moraines, and they are the dominant soils in the eastern part of the county. The Alderwood soils are associated with the somewhat excessively drained Everett and Indianola soils and with the moderately well drained Kitsap soils. The Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 5 to 15 percent slopes (Ab)is the most extensive, soil of the Alderwood series. It occupies undulating to rolling moraines. Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 15 to 30 percent slopes (Ac).-This soil varies more in depth, but otherwise it is similar to Alderwood gravelly sandy loams,5 to 15 percent slopes. Mukilteo peat, 0 to 2 percent slopes (Mg).-The Mukilteo series consists of peat that is mainly partly decomposed sedges, spires, twigs, and roots. Peat bogs usually are densely covered by spirea and are generally Ike of trees and other shrubs. Intermixed with the spirea are various sedges that form a good part, of the peat material. Occasionally, Mukilteo peat has a cover of deciduous trees, brush, and shrubs in place of the spirea. Mukilteo peat is widespread throughout the county, and it comprises the largest part of the upland bogs. This peat is very poorly drained and often ponded many months of the year. Artificial drainage can be used to remove excess moisture. Mukilteo peat is more acid and less fertile than McMurray peat. Mukilteo peat,0 to 2 percent slopes (Mg): This soil is strongly acid. It is saturated throughout the year and is difficult to drain. This soil is in capability subclass lilw.A more detailed description of this soil can be found in the Mason County Soil Survey Text(1951). FIGURE 4 SOIL SURVEY Project Name: Knuth Wetland $Ar Location: Belfair,Washington Project: TWC08-W55 Client: Kevin& Teresa Knuth THE VV FTL_-'i N D C4 R PS' Date: 09/08 00460 1 004 800484 +18Q0488 +1 4 U- r ti 80044 1 442 18004 4 18 s 0 8003 x u JC / xf f F Blacksmith Lake 28---r -j18804 ---.---_ Qpg22_ 1800 1 00428 S 18 308 800 0 1800 1 00408 + + Approximate s F " x parcel 1 location x a U. J t +70 so 1 Q�4821 70948 N-S 77�94& +709488 4 t SIRE k1IS SOILS TRALNSPORT kTION Stream Water Type 1-5(East s H�•dric Soils ide; /*'Paved Road Hi2h1v Unstable LTlpavecl Road Stream Type Unknown(East side) HighlyErodible AN / i gh1y vn:tab e& Road(Stu'face UnLio«ii) Stream Water Type :-.s(Wes-side) H:ghly Eiodible Stream Type L:nknoun(West side, No Data or Grat•el Pits r-e'`-Abandoned Road (h lianed Road Trail FIGURE 5 DNR STREAM MAP Project Name: Knuth Wetland Location: Belfair,Washington Project: TWC08-W55 -ME NN'FTI_._-'iL N D CORPS Client: Kevin &Teresa Knuth Date: 09/08 APPENDIX A Routine Wetland Determination Data Forms Routine Wetland Determination DATA FORM 1 (Revised) WA State Wetland Delineation Manual or 1987 Corps Wetland Delineation Manual Project/Site: Knuth Wetland Delineation Date: 09/08/2008 Applicant/owner: Kevin Knuth County: Mason Investigator(s): H. Lane State: WA S/T/R: 10 T23N R02W Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Yes Community ID: shrub/herbaceous Is the site significantly disturbed (atypical situation)? No Transect ID: 1 Is the area a potential problem area? No Plot In: Wetland Explanation of atypical or problem area: VEGETATION (For*strata, indicate T =tree-, S = shrub; H = herb; V=vine) Dominant Plant Species `Stratum % cover Indicator Dominant Plant Species *Stratum % cover Indicator Alnus rubra T LFACW Spiraea douglasii S Salix sp. S Carex obnupta H OBL Phalaris arundinacea H FACW Nuphar luteum H OBL HYDROPHYTIC VEGETATION INDICATORS: % of dominants OBL, FACW, & FAC: > 50% Check all indicators that apply and explain below: ❑ Visual observation of plant species growing in ❑ Physiological/reproductive adaptations areas of prolonged inundation/saturation X Wetland plant database ❑ Morphological adaptations X Personal knowledge of regional plant communities X Technical Literature ❑ Other(explain) Hydrophytic vegetation present? Yes Rationale for decision/Remarks: > 50%of dominants OBL & FACW HYDROLOGY Is it the growing season? Yes Water Marks: Yes Sediment Deposits: No Based on: September Drift Lines: Yes Drainage Patterns: Yes ----------- ---------- -- ------ ---------- Depth of inundation: 10 inches Oxidized Root(live roots) Local Soil Survey: Yes-area Channels <12n.: No mapped as"Mg" Depth to free water in pit: 0" FAC Neutral: Yes Water-stained Leaves: Yes Depth to saturated soil: 0" Check all that apply & explain below: Other(explain): ❑ Stream, lake or gage data X Aerial photographs ❑ Other Wetland hydrology present? yes Rationale for decision/remarks: Primary and secondary indicators present. SOILS Map Unit Name: Mukilteo Muck Drainage Class: Yes Field observations confirm mapped type? Yes Profile Description Depth Matrix color Mottle colors Mottle abundance Texture, concretions, Drawing of soil profile inches Munsell moist Munsell moist size and contrast structure,etc. (match description) 0-12 10YR 2/1 Muck Hydric Soil Indicators: (check all that apply) ❑ Histosol ❑ Matrix chroma<_2 with mottles ❑ Histic Epipedon ❑ Mg or Fe Concretions ❑ Sulfidic Odor ❑ High Organic Content in Surface Layer of Sandy Soils ❑Aquic Moisture Regime ❑ Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils ❑ Reducing Conditions X Listed on National/Local Hydric Soils List X Gleyed or Low-Chroma (=1)matrix ❑ Other ex lain in remarks Hydric soils present?Yes Rationale for decision/Remarks: low-chroma, Mukilteo peat listed on hydric soils list Wetland Determination Hydrophytic vegetation present?Yes Hydric soils present? Yes Wetland hydrology present?Yes Is the sampling point within a wetland?Yes Rationale/Remarks: Positive wetland indicators present for all three wetland parameters. NOTES: Revised 4/97 Routine Wetland Determination DATA FORM 1 (Revised) WA State Wetland Delineation Manual or 1987 Corps Wetland Delineation Manual Project/Site: Knuth Wetland Delineation Date: 9/08/08 Applicant/owner: Kevin Knuth County: Mason Investigator(s): H. Lane State: WA S/T/R: 10 T23N R02W Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Yes Community ID: forested/shrub Is the site significantly disturbed (atypical situation)? No Transect ID: 1 Is the area a potential problem area? No Plot ID: Upland Explanation of atypical or problem area: VEGETATION (For`strata, indicate T=tree; S = shrub; H = herb; V= vine) Dominant Plant Species *Stratum % cover indicator Dominant Plant Species *Stratum % cover Indicator Pinus contorta T FAC Vaccinium ovatum S FACU Pseudotsuga menziesii T FACU Ptendium aquilinum S FACU Pinus monitcola T FACU Gaultheria shallon S FACU Polystichum munitum S FACU 4. Mahonia nervosa S UPL HYDROPHYTIC VEGETATION INDICATORS: % of dominants OBL, FACW, & FAC: < 50% Check all indicators that apply and explain below: ❑ Visual observation of plant species growing in ❑ Physiological/reproductive adaptations areas of prolonged inundation/saturation X Wetland plant database ❑ Morphological adaptations X Personal knowledge of regional plant communities X Technical Literature ❑ Other(explain) Hydrophytic vegetation present? No Rationale for decision/Remarks: < 50%of dominants OBL, FACW, & FAC HYDROLOGY Is it the growing season? Yes Water Marks: No Sediment Deposits: No Based on: September Drift Lines: No Drainage Patterns: No Depth of inundation: No inundation Oxidized Root(live roots) Local Soil Survey: No Channels <12n.: Depth to free water in pit: > 16 FAC Neutral: No Water-stained Leaves: No Depth to saturated soil: > 16 Check all that apply & explain below: Other(explain): ❑ Stream, lake or gage data X Aerial photographs ❑ Other Wetland hydrology present? No Rationale for decision/remarks: No indicators present SOILS Map Unit Name: Ab-Alderwood gravelly sandy loam Drainage Class: well-drained Field observations confirm mapped type? Yes Profile Description Depth Matrix color Mottle colors Mottle abundance Texture, concretions, Drawing of soil profile inches Munsell moist Munsell moist size and contrast structure, etc. (match description) 0-5 10YR 3/3 Gravelly sandy loam 5-16 10YR 6/3 Sandy loam Hydric Soil Indicators: (check all that apply) ❑ Histosol ❑ Matrix chroma<2 with mottles ❑ Histic Epipedon ❑ Mg or Fe Concretions ❑ Sulfidic Odor ❑ High Organic Content in Surface Layer of Sandy Soils ❑ Aquic Moisture Regime ❑ Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils ❑ Reducing Conditions ❑Listed on National/Local Hydric Soils List ❑ Gleyed or Low-Chroma(=1)matrix ❑ Other(explain in remarks Hydric soils present?No Rationale for decision/Remarks: No indicators present. Wetland Determination Hydrophytic vegetation present?No Hydric soils present? No Wetland hydrology present?No Is the sampling point within a wetland?No Rationale/Remarks: Positive wetland indicators not present for all three wetland parameters. NOTES: Revised 4/97 APPENDIX B Soil Survey Text ALDERWOOD SERIES The Alderwood series consists of brown, well-drained, upland soils. They have developed from mixed gravelly glacial till dominated by acid igneous rock. The imbedded gravel is mainly granite and quartzite. Rainfall is 45 to 60 inches a year. The native vegetation is a dense forest consisting almost entirely of Douglas-fir and a dense understory of salal, Oregon-grape, vine maple, and huckleberry. Northeast of the Hood Canal the understory is mainly rhododendron. Alderwood soils occupy the extensive rolling glacial moraines,and they are the dominant soils in the eastern part of the county. The Alderwood soils are associated with the somewhat excessively drained Everett and Indianola soils and with the moderately well drained Kitsap soils. Shelton and Hoodsport soils differ from the Alderwood soils in that they have developed under high rainfall and from glacial till having a much higher content of basic igneous rock. The Shelton and Hoodsport soils are more reddish throughout the profile. The Shelton soils are usually deeper to the cemented till than the Alderwood soils. Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 5 to 15 percent slopes (Ab).-This is the most extensive, soil of the Alderwood series. It occupies undulating to rolling moraines. In undisturbed areas a I- to 2-inch mat of very dark brown, acid organic matter is on the surface. This grades to a thin, dark grayish-brown, highly organic mineral soil. The surface soil consists of a friable, brown, medium acid gravelly sandy loam 8 to 13 inches deep. It has a weak granular structure and contains numerous rounded shot. Below the surface soil, to depths ranging from 18 to 24 inches, is a pale-brown gravelly sandy loam that is very friable, is single grained; and contains small to moderate amounts of shot . Between this layer and the cemented till is a 3- to 10-inch layer of very pale brown gravelly sandy loam. It contains no shot and is firmer but has the same texture as the layer above. However, it is faintly to distinctly spotted and horizontally streaked with brown and yellow. The cemented till consists of light-gray, gravelly sandy loam, and it normally occurs at depths ranging from 24 to 32 inches. It is impermeable to roots and very slowly permeable to water. The first few inches is usually laminated and streaked with reddish brown and yellow. Below this, to a depth of many feet, the till is uniformly cemented, fairly uniform light gray, and medium to strongly acid. A thin mat of roots often lies over the till. The cemented substratum tends to restrict the rapid downward movement of moisture. Use and suitability.-Not more than about 5 percent of this soil has been cleared and is used for crops or pasture. Most of the cultivated acreage is near the inlets of Puget Sound in the vicinities of Arcadia and Allyn. In this area the Alderwood soils are associated with the better agricultural soils of the Cloquallum, Sinclair and Kitsap series. Hay, small grains, pasture, fruits, nuts, grapes, and berries are the principal crops grown on the Alderwood soils. The lack of subsoil moisture damages crops in summer. For this reason, early maturing, short-season crops are suited best to this soil. Yields of all crops are usually fairly low because of low fertility and the dry summers. Pastures produce good forage in spring and late in fall if proper plants are used and management is good. The deeper soils are suited best to fruits, nuts, and grapes. The uncleared and remote areas are better suited to forestry than to cultivated crops. Nearly all the uncleared acreage is in second-growth forest 70 to 80 years of age. Shallowness to the compact till often inhibits growth of the older trees. The soil, however, is well suited to production of Christmas trees. Douglas-fir readily restocks in thick stands containing trees of good form. Stands of small trees are often thinned and pruned to maintain good form of growth. The growing of Christmas trees has expanded rapidly in the past few years and is now one of the important industries in the county. It is one of the proper uses of the cutover lands that are not in a high site class. Alder-wood soils need barnyard manure, green manure, nitrogen, or legumes to maintain a fertility for crop production. Phosphate fertilizers and green manure or barnyard manure greatly improve fertility. Nitrogen fertilizer is often applied with barnyard manure or when cover crops are plowed under. The fertilizer furnishes additional nitrogen needed to hasten decay of the organic matter. This soil is in capability subclass VIs and in site classes 4 and 5 for Douglas-fir. Small areas along- the border, where the soil is more than 32 inches deep to compact till, are in site classes 3 and 4 for Douglas-fir. MUKILTEO SERIES The Mukilteo series consists of peat that is mainly partly decomposed sedges, spirea, twigs,and roots. Peat bogs usually are densely covered by spires and are generally free of trees and other shrubs. Intermixed with the spirea are various sedges that form a good part, of the peat material. Occasionally, Mukilteo peat has a cover of deciduous trees, brush, and shrubs in place of the spirea. Mukilteo peat is widespread throughout the county, and it comprises the largest part of the upland bogs. This peat is very poorly drained and often ponded many months of the year. Artificial drainage can be used to remove excess moisture. Mukilteo peat is more acid and less fertile than McMurray peat. Mukilteo peat, 0 to 2 percent slopes (Mg).-The surface layer consists of leaves, twigs, and small roots I to 2 inches thick. The upper 10 to 12 inches of peat is a granular, fibrous dark-brown mixture of partly decomposed roots, twigs, and fibrous sedges. This is underlain by more fibrous, less decomposed, brown peat. This grades through fibrous sedge peat, sedimentary peat, or mucky mineral soil to compact glacial till that is at varying depths below 3 feet. Occasionally, a thin layer or layers of diatomaceous earth occurs within I or 2 feet of the surface. This soil is strongly acid. It is saturated throughout the year and is difficult to drain. Use and suitability.-Only a few areas are cultivated in the county. Where adequate drainage can be installed and maintained, good yields of have grain, and pasture can be obtained. Uncultivated cleared areas are rapidly covered by native vegetation. This soil is in capability subclass IIIw. Appendix C Washington State Wetland Rating System Form Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake WETLAND RATING FORM — WESTERN WASHINGTON Version 2—Updated July 2006 to increase accuracy and reproducibility among users Name of wetland(if known): Knuth Lake- Fringe Wetland Date of site visit: 9/08/08 Rated by: H. Lane Trained by Ecology? Yes X_ No Date of training: 10/06 SEC:10 TWNSHP:23N RNGE:2W Is S/T/R in Appendix D? Yes NoX_ SUMMARY OF RATING Category based on FUNCTIONS provided by wetland: 1 II 11I X IV Category I = Score> 70 Score for Water Quality Functions 23 Category II = Score 51 -69 Score for Hydrologic Functions 18 Category III = Score 30—50 Score for Habitat Functions 8 Category IV= Score<30 TOTAL Score for Functions 49 Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTCS of Wetland 1 II Does not apply X 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 used for Ratio Estuarine De ressional Natural Heritage Wetland Riverine Bog Lake-fringe X Mature Forest Slope Old Growth Forest Flats Coastal Lagoon Freshwater Tidal Interdunal None of the above X 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) SP1. Has the wetland unit been documented as a habitat for any Federally listed Threatened or X 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 X 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). SP3. Does the wetland unit contain individuals of Priority species listed by the WDFW or the state? X SP4. Does the wetland unit have a local significance in addition to its functions? For example, the X wetland has been identified in the Shoreline Master Program,the Critical Areas Ordinance, or in a local management plan as having special significance. To oom�lete the next part of the data sheet you will need to determine the Hydrogeomorphic Class of the and being rated. The hydmgem a#w classification grads Nvcdmds in io those that fis cbm in similar ways.This sinTlifies the questions needed in a merhow well the wetland fcnctions.The Luc Class ofa wedard can dewrininod using the key below. Seep.24 fix mae dewed instuc6om on classifying wetlands. Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page I of 12 Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake 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) If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal Fringe use the forms for Rhvrine wetlands. If a is a Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is rated as an Estuarine wetland Wetlands that were call 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 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? X 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; X 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 not flooding.. 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 109/6 or more of the trial 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 Class to Use in Rating Slope+Riverine Riverine Slope+ Depressional Depressional Slope+Lake-fringe Lake-fringe Depressional+ Riverine along stream within boundary De ressional Depressional + Lake-fringe De ressional 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) Page 2 of 12 Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONS—Indicators that the wetland unit functions to improve water quality. (only 1 scot L 1 Does the wetland unit have the potential to improve water quality? (see p.59) per box) L 1.1 Average width of vegetation along the lakeshore(use polygons of Cowardin classes): 6 • Vegetation is more than 33 ft.(10m)wide............................................................................points=6 • Vegetation is more than 16 ft.(5m)wide and<33 ft.............................................................points=3 • Vegetation is more than 6 ft.(2m)wide and< 16 ft..............................................................points= t • Vegetation is less than 6 ft. wide..........................................................................................points=0 L 1.2 Characteristics of the vegetation in the wetland: Choose the appropriate description that results in the highest 3 points,and do not include any open water in your estimate of coverage. The herbaceous plants can be either the dominant form or as an understory in a shrub or forest community. These are not Cowardin classes. Area of Cover is total cover in the unit, but it can be in patches. NOTE:Herbaceous does not include aquatic bed. • Cover of herbaceous plants is>90%of the vegetated area...................................................points=6 • Cover of herbaceous plants is> 2/3 of the vegetated area.....................................................points=4 • Cover of herbaceous plants is> 1/3 of the vegetated area......................... points=3 • Other vegetation that is not aquatic bed or herbaceous covers>2/3 of the unit.....................points=3 • Other vegetation that is not aquatic bed in> 1/3 vegetated area............................................points= I • Aquatic bed cover and open water>2/3 of the unit..............................................................points=0 Add the points in the boxes above __9__ L 2 Does the wetland have the opportunity to improve water quality? (see p.61) Answer YES if you know or believe there are pollutants in the lake water,or polluted surface water flowing through the unit to the lake. Note which of the following conditions provide the sources of pollutants. A unit may have pollutants comingfrom several sources, but any single source would quali as opportunity. Wetland is along the shores of a lake or reservoir that does not meet water quality standards Grazing in the wetland or within 150 ft _ Polluted water discharges to wetland along upland edge Tilled fields or orchards within 150 ft.of wetland Residential or urban areas are within 150 ft.of wetland Multiplier Parks with grassy areas that are maintained,ballfields,golf courses(all within 150 ft.of lake shore) Power boats with gasoline or diesel engines use the lake Other 2 YES multiplier is 2 No multiplier is 1 ♦ TOTAL—Water Quality Functions Multiply the score from L I by L2;then add score to table on p. 1 18 HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS—Indicators that wetland functions to reduce shoreline erosion. L 3 Does the wetland have the potential to reduce shoreline erosion? (see p.62) L 3 Average width and characteristics of vegetation along the lakeshore (do not include aquatic bed): 4 (choose the highest scoring description that matches conditions in the wetland) • 3/4 of distance is shrubs or forest at least 33 ft. (IOm)wide .................................................points=6 • 3/4 of distance is shrubs or forest at least 6 ft. (2m) wide. ....................................................points=4 • 1/4 of distance is shrubs or forest at least 33 ft. (IOm)wide..................................................points=4 • Vegetation is at least 6 ft. (2m)wide(any type except aquatic bed)......................................points=2 Vegetation is less than 6 ft. (2m)wide(any type except aquatic bed) ...................................points=0 Record the points in the boxes above 4 L 4 Does the wetland have the opportunity to reduce erosion? (seep. 64) Are there features along the shore that will be impacted if the shoreline erodes? Note which of the following conditions apply. _ There are human structures and activities along the upland edge of the wetland(buildings, fields) that can be damaged by erosion. Multiplier _ There are undisturbed natural resources along the upland edge of the wetland(e.g. mature forests, other wetlands)that can be damaged by shoreline erosion. Other 2 YES multiplier is 2 No multiplier is 1 ♦ TOTAL—Hydrologic Functions Multiply the score from L3 by L4;then add score to table on p. 1 8 Comments: Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 6 of 12 Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake These questions apply to wetlands of all HCM classes. HABITAT FUNCTIONS- Indicators that wetland functions to provide important habitat. (only 1 scot P P per box) H 1 Does the wetland have the potential to provide habitat for many species? H 1.1 Vegetation structure(see P. 72): 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. 4 X Aquatic Bed X Emergent plants X 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 types that qualify. If you have: 4 structures or more.......points=4 3 structures...................points=2 2 structures....................points= 1 I structure.....................points=0 H 1.2 Hvdroperiods(see p.73): Check the types of water regimes(hydroperiods)present within the wetland The water regime has to cover more than 10•16 of the wetland or 114 acre to count(see text for descriptions of hydroperiods). 2 _ 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 I type present....................points=0 Permanently flowing stream or river in,or adjacent to,the wetland Seasonally flowing stream in,or adjacent to,the wetland X Lake-fringe wetland.................=2 points Freshwater tidal wetland.........=2 points H 1.3 Richness of Plant Species(see p. 75): Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 fe(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 1 List species below if you want to: <5 species.........................points=0 H 1.4 Interspersion of Habitats(seep. 76): Decided from the diagrams below whether interspersion between Cowardin vegetation(described in H 1.1),or the classes and unvegetated areas(can include open water or mudflats)is high,medium,low,or none. D O Note: If you have 4 or more classes CD ( or 3 vegetation classes and 3 open water,the rating is None=0 points Low=]point Moderate=2 points always"bleb". [riparian braided channels] Hi =3 ints 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. X Largei downed,woody debris within the wetland(>4 in.diameter and 6 ft. long) X Standng 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.(I in)over a stream(or ditch)in,or contiguous with the unit,for at least 33 ft.(10m) 4 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) X 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) 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 points in the column above 14 Wetland Rating Form-western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 8 of 12 Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake g 2 Does the wetland have the opportunity to provide habitat for many species? (only score per box) H 2.1 Buffers (see P. 80): 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". 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 3 (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 X 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 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 toH2.2.2 H.2.2.2 Is the wetland part of a relatively undisturbed and unbroken vegetated corridor(either riparian 2 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 • Within 1 mile of a lake greater than 20 acres? NO=0 points Comments: Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 9 of 12 Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake H 2.3 Near or adjacent to other priority habitats listed by WDFW(see p. 82): Which of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft.(loom)of the wetland? 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. X 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 7.6m(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 53cm(21 in)dbh;crown cover may be less than 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 greases and/or forbs form the natural climax plant community. _ Talus: Homogenous areas of rock rubble ranging in average size 0.15—2.Om(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 1 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 0.5 ppt.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 1 priority habit...= 1 point If wetland has 2 priority habitats..............=3 points 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 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 3 • 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 • There are no wetlands within 1/2 mile.................................................................................points=0 _ H 2 TOTAL Score—opportunity for providing habitat Add the scores from H2.1, H2.2, H2.3, H2.4 9 _ TOTAL for H I from page 8 14 ♦ Total Score for Habitat Functions Add the points for H 1 and H 2;then record the result on p. 1 23 Comments: Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 10 of 12 Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake CATEGORIZATION BASED ON SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS Please determine if the wetland meets the attributes described below and circle the appropriate answers and Category. Wetland Type—Check off any criteria that apply to the wetland. Circle the Category gven the appropriate criteria are met. SC1 Estuarine wetlands? (see p.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 X SC 1.1 Is the wetland unit within a National Wildlife Refuge,National Park,National Estuary Reserve,Natural Area Preserve, State Park or Educational, Environmental,or Scientific Reserve designated under WAC Cat. 1 332-30-151? YES =Category I NO=go to SC 1.2 SC 1.2 Is the wetland at least I acre in size and meets at least two of the following conditions? YES =Category I NO=Category 11 Cat. I The wetland is relatively undisturbed (has no diking, ditching, filling,cultivation,grazing,and has less than 10%cover of non-native plant species. If the non-native Spartina spp,. are only species Cat. II that cover more than 10%of the wetland,then the wetland should be given a dual rating(I/11). The area of Spartina would be rated a Category II while the relatively undisturbed upper marsh with native species would be a Category 1. Do not,however,exclude the area of Spartina in determining the size threshold of 1 acre. Dual At least 3/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft. buffer of shrub, forest,or un-grazed Rating or un-mowed grassland I/II The wetland has at least 2 of the following features: tidal channels,depressions with open water, or contiguous freshwater wetlands. C2 Natural Heritage Wetlands (seep. 87) Natural Heritage wetlands have been identified by the Washington Natural Heritage 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 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 X YES Contact WNHP/DNR(see p. 79)and go to SC 2.2 NO X SC 2.2 Has DNR identified the wetland as a high quality undisturbed wetland or as a site with state threatened or endangered plant species? Cat I YES =Category 1 NO not a Heritage Wetland C3 Bogs (seep. 87) Does the wetland(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 junction. 1. Does the unit have organic soil horizons(i.e. layers of organic soil),either peats or mucks,that compose 16 inches or more of the first 32 inches of soil profile? (See Appendix B for a field key to identify organic soils)? YES=go to question 3 NO=go to question 2 2. Does the wetland 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 question 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 question 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. 4. 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)? Cat. I YES=Category I NO=Is not a bog for purpose of rating Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page I 1 of 12 Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake C4 Forested Wetlands(see p. 90) Does the wetland have at least 1 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 function. Old-growth forests: (west of Cascade Crest) Stands of at least two three 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 an average diameters(dbh)exceeding 21 inches(53 cm);crown cover may be less than 100%;decay,decadence,numbers of snags,and quantity of large downed material is generally less than that found in old-growth. Cat. I YES=Category I NO=X_ not a forested wetland with special characteristics C5 Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons (see p. 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)during 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 X not a wetland in a coastal lagoon SC 5.1 Does the wetland meet 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 3/4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft.buffer of shrub, forest,or un-grazed or un-mowed grassland. Cat. I The wetland is larger than 1/10 acre(4350 square ft.) YES=Category I NO =Category 11 Cat. 11 C6 Interdunal Wetlands(seep. 93) Is the wetland west of the 1889 line(also called the Western Boundary of Upland Ownership or WBUO)? YES=Go to SC 6.1 NO X 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-Copal is—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 one acre or larger? YES=Category II NO =go to SC 6.2 Cat. II SC 6.2 Is the wetland between 0.1 and 1 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. 1. If you answered NO for all types enter"Not Applicable"on p. 1 Comments: Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 12 of 12