HomeMy WebLinkAboutWetland Delineation Report - PLN General - 11/30/2008 THE WETLAND CORPS 7W7
Wetland Delineation - Habitat Management Plans - Riparian Restoration • Mitigation • Biological Evaluation
BANKS WETLAND DELINEATION REPORT
Parcel 223107990741
60 NE Lakeway Drive South
Belfair,Washington
Mason County
Prepared for:
John and Judy Banks
1621 Bridle Drive
Henderson,Nevada 89015
Prepared by:
Lee Boad and Heather Lane
November,2008
PO Box 2854 Belfair, Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421-boad40@peoplepc.com
THE WETLAND CORPS
Wetland Delineation • Habitat Management Plans • Riparian Restoration • Mitigation • Biological Evaluation
BANKS WETLAND DELINEATION REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 1
GENERALSITE CONDITIONS................................................................................................ 1
METHODOLOGY ....................................................................................................................... 2
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ............................................................................................ 3
WETLAND DELINEATION RESULTS................................................................................... 3
WETLAND EVALUATION............................................................................................................................6
WETLANDCONCLUSION........................................................................................................ 6
REFERENCES.............................................................................................................................. 7
Fames
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
Appendices
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
THE WETLAND CORPS
Wetland Delineation - Habitat Management Plans • Riparian Restoration • Mitigation - Biological Evaluation
November, 2008 Project#TWC08W58
Page I of 16
BANKS WETLAND DELINEATION REPORT
60 NE Lake Drive South
Belfair,WA
INTRODUCTION
The Wetland Corps has been authorized by John and Judy Banks to perform a wetland
delineation at the above referenced property located in Belfair, Mason County,
Washington, (Tax Identification Number 223107990741). The delineation was
performed to identify wetlands and associated buffers that extend onto the subject
property. The delineation was completed November 13`h, 2008. The site was revisited
on November 17`h to evaluate standing water fluctuation.
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 1.62 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 545 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), it is regulated as a Lake over 20 acres.
However, the presence of hydrophytic vegetation growing within seasonally and
permanently flooded areas surrounding 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, spanning all
the way to the lake-fringe wetland. Topography within the property slopes gently to the
northwest down toward the lake.
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Banks Wetland Delineation
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The ownership consists of upland forested areas comprised of Douglas fir, western white
pine and beach pine and 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, soft rush, slough sedge, and yellow pond lily
extending approximately 20 feet into the open
en water.
Two culverts exist within the property. One culvert is located 190 feet from Lake Drive
South, and facilitates surface water drainage south and west toward the second culvert
during flood events. The surface water originates from two dug out flat areas that hold
excess water during flood events. These flat areas were investigated for wetland
conditions due their lowest point in general landscape topography, and presence of
standing water following a three-day flood event. The investigation concludes these
areas do not maintain indicators of wetland hydrology or hydric soil. The flat areas drain
excess water quickly and effectively, and shown in the photos below.
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Photo 1. Flat,dug out area where surface water collects during rain events. This photo was taken on
November 13"'2008 after three-day rain event.
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Banks Wetland Delineation
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Page 3 of 17
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Photo 2. Flat dug out area where surface water collects. This photo was taken on November 17'h
2008. This documents the soils ability to effectively drain.
A recently constructed ditch connects surface water to the second culvert during extreme
flood events. The second culvert spans west for 120 feet where it then outlets into
another recently constructed ditch. The ditch extends to the lake-fringe wetland
associated with Blacksmith Lake. The ditches within the property do not meet criteria for
a regulated stream channel because each ditch has been entirely man made within an area
not previously occupied by a channel. According to Section 17.01.040 of the Mason
County Resource Ordinance, streams are defined as:
Those areas where surface waters flow sufficiently to produce a
defined channel or bed. A defined channel or bed is an area which
demonstrates clear evidence of the passage of water and includes,
but is not limited to, bedrock channels, gravel beds, sand and silt
beds and defined channel swales. The channel or bed need not
contain water year round. This definition is not meant to include
irrigation ditches, canals, storm or surface water runoff devices or
other entirely artificial watercourses, unless they are used by salmon
or used to convey streams naturally occurring prior to construction.
The ditches were not formed by surface water flow and are therefore not regulated as
streams.
PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421•boad40@peoplepc.com
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Banks Wetland Delineation
TWC08-W56
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Page 5 of 17
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Photo 5. The second culvert outlets surface water into a partially dug out swale which eventually
connects to the lake-fringe wetland.
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 November 131h, 2008. Field work was conducted under cloudy skies with
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Banks Wetland Delineation
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an ambient temperature ranging between 45 and 50 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 flagging 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.
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
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Banks Wetland Delineation
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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 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).
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
vicinity of ownership. The nearest stream is mapped approximately 500' south of the
approximate parcel location, and appears to be the outlet for Blacksmith Lake. Three
other streams are mapped to drain into the northern end of Blacksmith Lake, one of
which is 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.
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. Banks Wetland Delineation
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Photo 6.Shrub/herbaceous vegetation along outer fringe of open water.
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Photo 7. Blacksmith Lake and associated lake-fringe wetland,looking south from the subject
property.
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Vegetation
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 and
(Sprraea doe l located at the outermost extent of the wetland boundary.
gasii �
FAC
Portions of the wetland beyond the parcel contain an overstory of red alder (Alnus rubra,
FAQ. The second class of vegetation is located waterward of the shrub community, and
consists of a dense herbaceous community of slough sedge (Carex obnupta, OBL), soft
rush(Juncus effufus, FACW) 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
(Pseudotsuga menziesii, FACU) with lesser amounts of beach pine (Pinus contorta,
FAQ. 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 (Rubes lacianatus, FACU). Portions of the upland have been
restored in the last 5-10 years with the above mentioned vegetation and madrone trees
(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.
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 IOYR 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
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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 50 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 24. 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 Wetland within the
subject property. The wetland requires a buffer of I I0-feet with an additional 15-foot
building setback in Mason County. See Figure 2. Site Map for the approximate wetland
and associated buffer location within the property.
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
Heather Lane
Staff Wetland Specialist
Lee Boad
Senior Ecologist
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Banks Wetland Delineation
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Page l l of 17
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
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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: Banks Wetland Delineation Date: 11/13/08
Applicant/owner: John and Judy Banks 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 menziesh T FACU Pteridium aquilinum S FACU
Pinus monitcola T FACU
Gaultheria shallon S FACU
Polystichum munitum S FACU
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? No Water Marks: No Sediment Deposits: No
Based on: November Drift Lines: No Drainage Patterns: No
Depth of inundation: No inundation Oxidized Root(live roots) Local Soil Survey: No
Channels <12in.:
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 Descri tion
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
Routine Wetland Determination
DATA FORM 1 (Revised)
WA State Wetland Delineation Manual or 1987 Corps Wetland Delineation Manual
Project/Site: Banks Wetland Delineation Date: 11/13/08
Applicantlowner: John and Judy Banks 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: 2
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 Pteridium aquilinum S FACU
Pinus monitcola T FACU
Gaultheria sha/lon S FACU
Polystichum munitum S FACU
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? No Water Marks: No Sediment Deposits: No
Based on: November Drift Lines: No Drainage Patterns: No
Depth of inundation: No inundation Oxidized Root(live roots) Local Soil Survey: No
Channels <12in.:
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 Descri tion
Depth Matrix color Mottle colors Mottle abundance Texture, concretions, Drawing of soil profile
inches Munsell moist Munsell moisL 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
Routine Wetland Determination
DATA FORM 1 (Revised)
WA State Wetland Delineation Manual or 1987 Corps Wetland Delineation Manual
Project/Site: Banks Wetland Delineation Date: 11/13/2008
Appiicant/owner: John and Judy Banks 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 ID: 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
Spiraea douglasii S FACW
Salix sp. S FACW
Carex obnupta H OBL
Phalaris arundinacea H FACW
Nuphar luteum H OBL
Juncus effufus H FACW
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? No Water Marks: Yes Sediment Deposits: No
Based on: November Drift Lines: Yes Drainage Patterns: Yes
Depth of inundation: 10 inches Oxidized Root(live roots) Local Soil Survey: Yes-area
Channels <12in.: 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 5 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(explain 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: Banks Wetland Delineation Date: 11/13/2008
Applicant/owner: John and Judy Banks 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: 2
Is the area a potential problem area? No Plot ID: 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
Spiraea douglasii S FACW
Sa/ix sp. S FACW
Carex obnupta H OBL
Phalaris arundinacea H FACW
Nuphar luteum H OBL
Juncus effufus H FACW
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? No Water Marks: Yes Sediment Deposits: No
Based on: November Drift Lines: Yes Drainage Patterns: Yes
Depth of inundation: 10 inches Oxidized Root (live roots) Local Soil Survey: Yes-area
Channels <12in.: 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 211 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(explain 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
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 1- 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 spirea 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 1 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 1 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
Weiland 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): Blacksmith Lake- Fringe Wetland Date of site visit: 11/13/08
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: I II III X IV
Category I = Score> 70 Score for Water Quality Functions 24
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 50
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 Rating
Estuarine De ressional
Natural Heritage Wetland Riverme
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 17-7
HGM classes present
Does the wetland being rated meet any of the criteria below? If you answer YES to any of the questions below you will
need to protect the wetland according to the regulations regarding the special characteristics found in the wetland.
Check List for Wetlands that Need Additional Protection YES NO
in addition to the protection recommended for its category)
SP 1. Has the wetland unit been documented as a habitat for any Federally listed Threatened or 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 complete the next part of the data sheet you will need to determine the Hydrogeomotphic Class of the wetland being rated.
The hydrogeornotphic classifxatim groups wetlands in to those that function in similar ways.This simplifies the questions needed to answer how well the vMland
finndiom The Hydrogeomorphic Class of a wetland can be determined using the key below. Seep.24 formore detailed inshucWm on cbssdyn winds.
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page l 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 Riverine wetlands. If it is a Saltwater Tidal Fringe it
is rated as an Estuarine wedandl 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 If 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 notflooding..
NO—go to 6 YES—The wetland class is Riverine
6. Is the entire wetland unit in a topographic depression in which water ponds, or is saturated to the surface, at some time of
the year. This means that any outlet, if present is higher than the interior of the wetland.
NO—go to 7 YES—The wetland class is Depressional
7. Is the entire wetland located in a very flat area with no obvious depression and no overbank flooding. The unit does not
pond surface water more than a few inches. The unit seems to be maintained by high groundwater in the area. The
wetland may be ditched,but has no obvious natural outlet.
No—go to 8 YES—The wetland class is Depressional
8. Your wetland unit seems to be difficult to classify and probably contains several different HGM classes. For example,seeps at the base of a
slope may grade into a riverine floodplain,or a small stream within a depressional wetland has a zone of flooding along its sides. GO
BACK AND IDENTIFY WHICH OF THE HYDROLOGIC REGIMES DESCRIBED IN QUESTIONS 1-7 APPLY TO DIFFERENT
AREAS IN THE UNIT(make a rough sketch to help you decide). Use the following table to identify the appropriate class to use for the
rating system if you have several HGM classes present within your wetland. NOTE: Use this table only if the class that is recommended in
the second column represents 10%or more of the total area of the wetland unit being rated If the area of the class listed in column 2 is less
than 10%of the unit,classify the wetland using the class that represents more than 90%of the total area.
HGM Classes within the wetland unit being rated HGM Class to Use in Rating
Slope+ Riverine Riverine
Slope+ Depressional Depressional
Slope+ Lake-fringe Lake-frin e
Depressional+ Riverine along stream within boundary Depressional
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
D Depressional and Flat Wetlands
WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONS—Indicators that wetland functions to improve water quality. (only 1 scot
per box)
D 1 Does the wetland have the potential to improve water quality? (see p.38)
D 1.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland:
• Unit is a depression with no surface water leavingit no outlet —...... . ....................... ants—3
• Unit has an intermittently flowing,OR highly costricted,permanently flowing outlet.........points=2
• Unit has an unconstricted,or slightly constricted,surface outlet(permanently flowing)........points= 1
• Unit is a"flat"depression(Q.7 on key),or in the Flats class,with permanent surface
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 "intermittent) flowing')
D 1.2 The soil 2 inches below the surface(or duff layer)is clay or organic(use NRCS definitions)
YES points=4 NO points=0
D 1.3 Characteristics of persistent vegetation(emergent,shrub,and/or forest Cowardin class):
• Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation>=95%of area...............................................points=5
• Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation>= 1/2 of area.................................................points=3
• Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation>= 1/10 of area...............................................points= I
• Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation< 1/10 of area..................................................points=0
D 1.4 Characteristics of seasonal ponding or inundation: This is the area of the wetland that is ponded for at
least 2 months, but dries out sometime during the year. Do not count the area that is permanently
ponded. Estimate area as the average condition 5 out of 10 years.
• Area seasonally ponded is> 1/2 total area of wetland...........................................................points=4
• Area seasonally ponded is> 1/4 total area of wetland...........................................................points=2
• Area seasonally ponded is< 1/4 total area of wetland...........................................................points=0
Total for D 1 Add the points in the boxes above _
D 2 Does the wetland have the opportunity to improve water quality? (seep. 44)
Answer YES if you know or believe there are pollutants in groundwater or surface water coming into
the wetland that would otherwise reduce water quality in streams,lakes or groundwater downgradient
from the wetland? Note which of the following conditions provide the sources of pollutants. A unit
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
Residential,urban areas,golf courses are within 150 ft.of wetland Multiplier
Wetland is fed by groundwater high in phosphorus or nitrogen
Other
YES multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is 1
♦ TOTAL—Water Quality Functions Multiply the score from DI by 132• then add score to table on p. I
HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS—Indicators that wetland unit functions to reduce flooding and stream degradation.
D 3 Does the wetland have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion? (see p.46)
D 3.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland unit
• Unit is a depression with no surface water leaving it(no outlet)...........................................points=4
• Unit has an intermittently flowing,OR highly constricted permanently flowing outlet..........points=2
• Unit is a"flat"depression(Q.7 on key)or in the Flats class,with permanent surface
outflow and no obvious natural outlet and/or outlet is a man-made ditch...........................points= I
(If ditch is not permanently flowing treat unit as "intermittently flowing')
• Unit has an uncoustricted or slightly constricted surface outlet (permanently-flowing)........ oints=0
D 3.2 Depth of storage during wet periods. Estimate the height of ponding above the bottom of the outlet. For
units with no outlet measure from the surface of permanent water or deepest part(if dry).
• Marks of ponding are 3 ft.or more above the surface or bottom of the outlet........................points=7
• The wetland is a"headwater"wetiand..................................................................................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......................................points=3
• Wetland is flat(yes to Q.2 or Q.7 on key)but has small depressions on the surface that trap water.points= 1
• Marks of ponding less than 0.5 ft.........................................................................................points=0
D 3.3 Contribution of wetland unit to storage in the watershed: Estimate the ratio of the area o 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..........................................points=0
• Entire unit is in the FLATS class..........................................................................................points=5
Total for D 3 Add the points in the boxes above
D 4 Does the wetland have the opportunity to reduce flooding and erosion? (seep. 49)
Answer YES if the unit is in a location in the watershed where the flood storage,or reduction in water velocity, Multiplier
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
ate flap valve reservoir etc.OR you estimate that more than 90%of the water in the wetland is from
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 3 of 12
Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake
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
_ Other
YES multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is 1
♦ TOTAL—Hydrologic Functions Multiply the score from D3 by 134; then add score to table on p. I
Comments:
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 4 of 12
Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake
R A.1yerine and Freshwater Tidal Fringe Wetlands Points
WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONS—Indicators that wetland functions to improve water quality. (only I score
per box)
R 1 Does the wetland have the potential to improve water quality? (see p.52)
R 1.1 Area of surface depressions within the riverine wetland that can trap sediments during a flooding event:
• Depressions cover>3/4 area of wetland...............................................................................points=8
• Depressions cover> 1/2 area of wetland...............................................................................points=4
(If depressions>1/2 of area of unit draw polygons on aerial photo or map)
• Depressions present but cover< 1/2 area of wetland.............................................................points=2
• No depressions present.........................................................................................................points=0
R 1.2 Characteristics of the vegetation in the unit(areas with>90%cover at person height):
• Trees or shrubs>2/3 area of the unit...................................................................................points=8
• Trees or shrubs> 1/3 area of the wetland.............................................................................points=6
• Ungrazed,herbaceous plants>2/3 area of unit.....................................................................points=6
• Ungrazed herbaceous plants> 1/3 area of unit......................................................................points=3
• Trees,shrubs,and ungrazed herbaceous< 1/3 area of unit....................................................points=0
Add the points in the boxes above
R 2 Does the wetland have the opportunity to improve water quality? (seep. 53)
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 qualms 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 togging
_ Residential,urban areas,golf courses are within 150 ft.of wetland
_ The river or stream linked to the wetland has a contributing basin where human activities have Multiplier
raised levels of sediment,toxic compounds or nutrients in the river water above standards for
water quality.
Other_
YES multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is 1
♦ TOTAL—Water Quality Functions Multiply the score from RI by R2;then add score to table on p. I
HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS—Indicators that wetland functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion.
R 3 Does the wetland have the potential to reduce flooding and erosion? (see p.54)
R 3.1 Characteristics of the overbank storage the wetland provides: Estimate the average width of the wetland
perpendicular to the direction of the flow and the width of the stream or river channel(distance between
banks). Calculate the ratio: (average width of unit)/(average width of stream between banks).
• If the ratio is more than 20...................................................................................................points=9
• If the ratio is between 10—20..............................................................................................points=6
• If the ratio is 5-<10.............................................................................................................points=4
• If the ratio is 1-<5...............................................................................................................points=2
• If the ratio is< 1 ..................................................................................................................points= 1
R 3.2 Characteristics of vegetation that slow down water velocities during floods: Treat large woody debris as
'forest or shrub". Choose the points appropriate for the best description. (polygons need to have >90°
cover at person height NOT Cowardin classes):
• Forest or shrub for> 1/3 area OR herbaceous plants>2/3 area............................................points=7
• Forest or shrub for> 1/10 area OR herbaceous plants> 1/3 area..........................................points=4
• Vegetation does not meet above criteria...............................................................................points=0
Add the points in the boxes above ____
R 4 Does the wetland have the opportunity to reduce flooding and erosion? (see p.57)
Answer YES if the wetland 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. Note which of the following conditions apply.
There are human structures and activities downstream(roads, buildings,bridges,farms)that can
be damaged by flooding.
There are natural resources downstream(e.g.salmon redds)that can be damaged by flooding
Other Multiplier
(Answer NO if the major source of water to the wetland is controlled by a reservoir or the wetland is
tidal fringe along the sides of a dike)
YES multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is 1
L.♦ TOTAL—Hydrologic Functions Multiply the score from R3 by R4;then add score to table on p. I
Comments:
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 5 of 12
Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake
WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONS—Indicators that the wetland unit functions to improve water quali (only 1 score
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= 1
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.................. . .. . p —..points—
• 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 1 __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 coming from several sources, but any single source would qualify 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 L1 by 1-2;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. (10m)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. (10m)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? (see p. 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
S Slope Wetlands
WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONS— Indicators that wetland functions to improve water quality. (only 1 score
per box)
S 1 Does the wetland have the potential to improve water quality? (see A64
S I A Characteristics of average slope of unit:
• Slope is 1%or less(a 1%slope has a l f.vertical drop in elevation for every 100 ft horizontal distance).........points=3
• Slope is 1%-2%..................................................................................................................points=2
• Slope is 2%-5%..................................................................................................................points= 1
• Slo a is greater than 5%.......................................................................................................points=0
S 1.2 The soil 2 inches below the surface(or duff layer)is clay,organic(Use NRCS definitions).
YES =3 points NO =0 points
S 1.3 Characteristics of the vegetation in the wetland that trap sediments and pollutants: Choose the points
appropriate for the description that best fits the vegetation in the wetland. Dense vegetation means you
have trouble seeing the soil surface(>75%cover), and uncut means not grazed or mowed and plants
are higher than 6 inches.
• Dense,uncut,herbaceous vegetation>90%of the wetland area...........................................points=6
• Dense,uncut,herbaceous vegetation> 1/2 of area................................................................points=3
• Dense,woody,vegetation> 1/2 of area................................................................................points=2
• Dense,uncut,herbaceous vegetation> 1/4 of area................................................................points= 1
• Does not meet any of the criteria above for vegetation.........................................................points=0
Total for S 1 Add the points in the boxes above
S 2 Does the wetland have the opportunity,to improve water quality? (see p. 67)
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 Multiplier
Tilled fields,logging,or orchards within 150 ft.of wetland
Residential,urban areas,or golf courses are within 150 ft.upslope of wetland
Other
YES multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is I
♦ TOTAL—Water Quality Functions Multiply the score from S1 by S2• then add score to table on p. 1
HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS—Indicators that wetland functions to reduce flooding and stream erosion.
S 3 Does the wetland have the potential to reduce flooding and stream erosion? (see p.68)
S 3.1 Characteristics of vegetation that reduce the velocity of surface flows during storms: Choose the points
appropriate for the description that best fits conditions in the wetland(stems of plants should be thick
enough(usually> 118in), or dense enough to remain erect during surface flows).
• Dense,uncut,rigid vegetation covers>90%of the area of the wetland ...............................points=6
• Dense,uncut,rigid vegetation> 1/2 area of wetland.............................................................points=3
• Dense,uncut,rigid vegetation> 1/4 area.............................................................................points= 1
• More than 1/4 of area is grazed,mowed tilled or vegetation is not rigid .............................points=0
S 3.2 Characteristics of slope wetland that holds back small amounts of flood flows.
The slope has small surface depressions that can retain water over at least 10%of its area.
YES =2 points NO =0 points
Add the points in the boxes above
S 4 Does the wetland have the opportunity to reduce flooding and erosion? (seep. 70)
Is the wetland in a landscape position where the reduction in water velocity it provides helps protect
downstream property and aquatic resources from flooding or excessive and/or erosive flows? Note
which of the following conditions apply.
Wetland has surface runoff that drains to a river or stream that has flooding problems Multiplier
Other
(Answer NO if the major source of water is controlled by a reservoir(e.g. wetland is a seep that is on
the downstream side of a dam)
YES multiplier is 2 NO multiplier is I
♦ TOTAL—Hydrologic Functions Multiply the score from S3 by S4•then add score to table on p. 1
Comments:
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 7 of 12
Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake
These questions apply to wetlands of all MGM classes. Points
HABITAT FUNCTIONS—Indicators that wetland functions to provide important habitat. (only I score
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
1/4 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 1 structure.....................points=0
H 1.2 Hydroperiods(see p.73):
Check the types of water regimes(hydroperiods)present within the wetland. The water regime has to
cover more than 10%of the wetland or 1/4 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 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
X Lake-fringe wetland.................=2 points
Freshwater tidal wetland.........=2 points
H 1.3 Richness of Plant Species (seep. 75):
Count the number of plant species in the wetland that cover at least 10 ft2(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 I
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 H1.1),or
the classes and unvegetated areas(can include open water or mudflats)is high,medium,low,or none.
Note: If you have 4 or more classes
CDO or 3 vegetation classes and 3
open water,the rating is
None=0 points Low= I point Moderate=2 points always"high".
' 4
\ [riparian braided channels]
Hi =3 in
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 point
you put into the next column.
X Large,downed,woody debris within the wetland(>4 in.diameter and 6 ft. long)
X 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) 5
X 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-la ing 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 I S
Wetland Rating Form—western Washington,version 2(7/06) Page 8 of 12
Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake
I score
H 2 Does the wetland have the opportunity to provide habitat for many species? loner 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 to H 2.2.2
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 Qriority habitats listed by WDFW(see p. 82):
Which of the following priority habitats are within 330 ft.(100m)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
• There are at least 3 other wetlands within 1/2 mile,BUT the connections between them are 3
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=O
H 2 TOTAL Score—opportunity for providing habitat Add the scores from H2.1, H2.2, H2.3, H2.4 1 9
TOTAL for H I from page 8 14 j
♦ Total Score for Habitat Functions Add the points for H 1 and H 2;then record the result on p. 1 �_ 24 _JI
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 when the appropriate
criteria are met.
C1 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 sp ,.are only species
that cover more than 10%of the wetland,then the wetland should be given a dual rating(I/11). Cat. II
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 1
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 11 of 12
V
Wetland name or number Blacksmith Lake
C4 Forested Wetlands (seep. 90)
Does the wetland have at least l 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 II Cat. II
C6 Interdunal Wetlands (see p. 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
Ifyou 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 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