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Wetland Delineation • Habitat Management Plans - Riparian Restoration • Mitigation • Biological
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BELSCOTT WETLAND DELINEATION AND ANALYSIS REPORT
Parcels
12329-43-00100
12329-43-00110
12329-43-00120
12329-43-00140
12329-43-00160
Mason County,Washington
Prepared for:
MJ Scott Enterprises
do Judy Scott
PO Box 1238
Belfair,WA 98528
Prepared by:
Lee Boad&Heather Lane
April,2010
a
HE WETLAND CORPS Evaluation
Wetland Deli
neation • Habitat Management plans • Riparian Restoration • Mitigation Biological
BELSCOTT WETLAND DELINEATION AND ANALYSIS REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
...............................
GENERAL SITE CONDITIONS ............................
METHODOLOGY...........................
ETLAND EVALUATION............................................................................
3
W
BACKGROUND INFORMATIO .......................................
WETLAND DELINEATION RESULTS.................................................................................
...4
WETLAND EVALUATION RESULTS......................................
STREAMEVALUATION....................................................................................................
SUMMARY.......................................................................
...........................
REFERENCES...........................................................................................................
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. DNR Water Resources Map
Appendices
Appendix A. Routine Wetland Determination Data Forms
Appendix B. Soil Survey Text
Appendix C. Washington State Wetland Rating System Form
THE WETLAND CO RPS �
Wetland Delineation Habitat Management Plans • Riparian Restoration Mitigation Biological E C i OW35
Project#TW
April,2010 Page 1 of 10
BELSCOTT WETLAND DELINEATION AND ANALYSIS
REPORT
23541 NE State Highway 3
Belfair,Washington 98528
INTRODUCTION
The Wetland Corps (TWC) has been authorized by Judy Scott of MJ Scott Enterprises (AKA
Belscott) to perform a wetland delineation on five parcels located 43 00M0,o 12329 3�
Washington, (Tax Identification Numbers 12329-43-00100,
00120, 12329-43-00140 and 12329-43-00160). The delineation was performed to identify
wetland boundaries and associated buffers that would be applicable to future use of the site.
The subject property is located in the SE '/4 of Section 29, Township 23 North, Range 1 West
WM (Figure I Vicinity Map). The properties collectively encompass approximately 8.4 acres
within the Belfair Urban Growth Area.
For the purposes of federal,Washington State,and Mason County jurisdictional oversight, the
with the
methodology used for the wetland delWashington
State Wetln is landstIden Identificaland definition
tion Delineation
provided in paragraph 25a of the Washtngt The sections below provide. (1) an
Manual (Washington State Department of Ecology, 1997).
introduction to the site: (2) a description of methods used in the field delineation; and, (3)
technical results.
GENERAL SITE CONDITIONS
The site is bordered to the east by State Rourlly
atti n. The pi north
e y isbo dereduth ytoothewest by
zoned properties of similar size and conf g
large, undeveloped parcels containing the extensive estuarine wetland
system associated
We�lands with
the Union River estuary and Hood Canal, which includes the Mary
easternmost portion of the PTOPerty accommodatesof the site contains a relatively undisturbed forested
commercial use while the western portion
area.
In general, the we
side of the ownerlup contains and Douglas three
located between the developed
forested shrub community of western red cedar
portion of the property to the east and the wetland portion of the property to the west. The
rn and
understory in this upland area consists of salal,western reds cedarewith a dentseyunderstory containing
community consisting of
PO Box.2854 Belfair,Washington 98529•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360-372-2421•wetlandcorps@hotmail-corn
Belscott Wetland Delineation
Project TWG10W350
April,2010
Page No.2
ons Of
salmonbetry, willow, horsetail, slough mmerciall managedcabbage
and areaslady
contain dense patches of
the site near the residentially and Y p gi. p y
nonnative species including Japanese knatweed and himilayan o theastern s �y de of the parcel to the wetland
within
the site consists of a low gradient slope down
area on the western portion of the parcel. A stream enters the wetland out of a tightline near
an existing house and meanders west through the wetland. A detailed description of the
stream and regulatory status is described throughout this report.
METHODOLOGY
Review of Existing Information
Consistent with procedures detailed in the Washington State Wetlands Identification ti and
Delineation Manual (Washington State Department of Ecology, 1997)
(1997 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
t is the wetland delineation manual that is used
articulated in the 1997 Manual. This documen
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 project site wetlands were determined during field work performed
on April 21", 2010. Field work was conducted under cloudy conditions with an ambient
temperature ranging between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The time of year and recent
precipitation history were considered in assessing the type and extent of wetlands presumed to
exist on site.
Specific field methodology used in determining the extent and location of wetland areas
include:
■ As part of the initial project site reconnaissance, the site was walked to determine the
general extent and location of potential wetland areas;
■ Wetland and upland sample plots were established in the identified potential wetland
areas and in the adjacent upland area;
■ 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.
PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.office Phone 360-372-2421•wedandcoips@hotmailxom
Belscott Wetland Delineation
Project TWC1OW350
April,2010
Page No-3
Data collected at each sample plot were entered onto a o ti o data forms for each sample
tland Determination Data
Form (Washington State Department of Ecology 1997). Copes
plot are provided in Appendix A.
WETLAND EVALUATION
The Mason County Resource Ordinance, defines wetland categories accords sy the
stem
Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washingto habitaattribues and various
identifies various complexities within wetland structures,
functions associated with wetlands. This wetland was rated accordingly and the completed
rating form is provided in Appendix C.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Mason County Soil Survey
The soil survey of Mason County indicates three onsite soil types (USDA, 1951):
Saxon silt loam, 5 to 15 percent slopes (Sa).-The Saxon series consists of friable, well-
drained, brown, silty soils on the uplands. They have developed from Vashon glacial lake
sediment similar to that of the Kitsap soils. Surface drainage is well developed, internal
drainage is medium, and the moisture-holding capacity is good.The rainfall is 45 to 60 inches
a year. The vegetation is a dense forest of fir, cedar, and alder, with a dense undercover of
salal, vine maple, bracken fern, and sword fern. Saxon soils differ from the Kitsap soils in
having browner surface soil and less dense subsoil,and in containing shot.
Everett gravelly sandy loam,
5 to 15 percent slopes (Eh).- The Everett series consists of
somewhat excessively drained, pale-brown gravelly soils. They occur as inextensive gravel
ridges on the glacial moraines or, more commonly, as fairly continuous outwash channels
between ridges of Alderwood soils. They have developed upon assorted glacial till and
outwash material. The rainfall is 45 to 60 inches a year. The vegetation is mainly drought-
and kinnikinnick. Everett soils are droughty because the loose
resistant madrone, manzanita,
gravel and sandy subsoil and substratum offer little resistance to downward movement of
water.The capacity of the surface soil to hold available moisture is low.Everett soils are in the
eastern half of the county, in association with the Alderwood soils.They also occur in intricate
patterns with the Kitsap and Indianola soils. Compared to the Grove soils, the Everett soils
have a paler surface soil and subsoil and, in development, were dominated more by acid
igneous parent rock.
Mukilteo peat, shallow over gravel, 0 to 2 percent slopes (Nfh).- The Mukilteo series
consists of peat that is mainly partly decomposed sedges, spirea, twigs, and roots. Peat bogs
generally
usually are densely covered by spirea and are 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.
PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360, 620-0618.Office Phone 360 372-2421 wetlandcorps@hotmail.com
0
Belscott Wetland Delineation
Project TWC10W350
April,2010
Page No-4
Artificial drainage can be used to remove excess moisture.Mukilteo Peat is more acid and less
fertile than McMurray peat.
A more detailed soil description can be found in Appendix B, Mason Soil Survey Text. The
Mason Soil Survey map is shown to Figure
National Wetlands InventoN
The USFWS NWI map (online wetlands mapper) shows the identified wetland area in the
project vicinity as part of the large ortio of the wetlandd system ated with syst m within the ve Union icinity ty of the
ver Estuary
(See Figure 3. NWI Map). Thep paiustnne [SS] Scrub shrub [C]
subject parcel is identified by the N as wesCo SSCH he property, the wetland system has
Seasonally Flooded [H] Diked/Impounded-
several hydrogeomorphic classes; ranging from freshwater forested wetlands to the
estuarine/marine wetland associated with Union River and Hood Canal.
DNR Water Resources the
The Department of Natural Resourcest Water Resources
st r amssa e shown identifies
hundred feettnnorth
vicinity of the property.
and south of the property. See Figure 5.DNR Water Resource Map).
WETLAND DELINEATION RESULTS
General Wetland Conditionsthe
The portion of the wetland within the property is part of large system associated with al
Union River estuary and Hood Canal,occupying an area over 200 acres and supporting
hydrogeomorphic classes (estuarine tidal-fringe, slope, riverine and depressional) within the
delineated boundary.
The estuarine tidal-fringe portion of the wetland is located downslope and west of the
ownership. This portion of the wetl nd on of the is classified
re usually controlletidal-fringe
by tides and the
because the water levels m this ports per thousand).
salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow are above 0.5 ppt(parts P
The freshwater forested/shrub wetland occupies a transitional area between the estuarine
portion of the wetland system and the surrounding uplands. The freshwater forested/shrub
portion of the system extends onto the western half of the subject property. The portion of the
wetland within the subject property meets Department of Ecology criteria fora slope
freshwater forested/shrub wetland because of the presence of a slope gradient (1 to 2%), and
water leaves the wetland without being impounded. The freshwater forest/shrub portion of the
wetland continues north and south off of the property, as depicted on the Mason County GIS
database (shown below), the NWI map shown in Figure 3, and hydric soil patterns shown in
Figure 4.
i'O Box 2854 Betfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.U t ce Phone 360" 2-242 l•wetlandcorps@hotmail.com
Belscott Wetland Delineation
Project TWC10W350
April,2010
Page No-5
- - - - - - K NE BELFAR ST
I = /
V�O
r �
PPv Z _NE STATE ROUTE 100_
4F ray
0 Z
OJ ME BYERLY OR
MEWJ WAY
c 1963ft
/ GIS Database. The site location's circled in red. The extensive
wetland complex,
photo 1. Taken from the Mason am �ng to Min County GIS,is shown in blue.
ed in the field with
wedand
All wetland boundaries within the study area
e revlioustdelineation was dentifiedan certain
delineation flagging. Remnant flagging from a p
areas which accurately correlated with the findings of this delineation.
NA
"�.m yr' hh'�}� �i. Y 1 .T..i�` � �•
}�
" "
'14
Photo 2. Forestediscrab shrub freshwater wetland within ownership.
Data was collected at three sample plot locations in the forested/shrub portion of the wetland,
ings on
and three sample plot locations
d vegetationn the sonding ample plots nwithin thesportpon1 olf thedwetland
wetland soils, hydrology, an for
within the property are provided below.
PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 3t) 372-2421•wetlandcorps@hotmail.com
Belscott Wetland Delineation
Project TWC1OW350
April,2010
Page No.6
Soils
Soils inspected in and around the wetland test pits of the freshwater forested/shrub wettan
exhibited low matrix chromas (7.5YR 3/1), consisting of muck. Wetland hydric soil is
indicated by low-chromas (equaling one) throughout the soil profile, and a consistent soil
profile to that of the mapped hydric soil,Mulkilteo Peat.
Hydrology
The test pits excavated within the wetland revealed hydrology criteria were met, most notably
by the observation of water stained leaves, drainage patterns within the wetland, water marks
on trees, inundation during the growing season, standing water in the test pits and saturated
soil within the upper 12-inches. With the exception of a small channel,formed by stormwater
runoff from a parking lot,No hydrology indicators were present in upland data plots.
Vegetation
The vegetation in the forested/shrub wetland is comprised of an overstory of western red cedar
(Thuja plicata, FAC) and red alder (Alnus rubra,FAC). The shrub layer generally consists of
salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis,FAC+),pacific ninebark(Physocarpos capitatus,
FACW)and
nootka rose (Rosa nutkana, FAC-). The wetland has a diverse herbaceous layer Wild field
horsetail (Equisetum arvense, FAC), water parsley (Oenanthemum dilatatum, OB ' y
fern
of the valley (Maianthemum dilatatum, FAC), stinging nettle (Urtica dioica, FAC-) lady
(Athyrium filix femina, FAC) s�u� cabbage
2 jt Bg
(Carex obnupta, OBL). Upland test pits no indicators of hydric soils or wetland
hydrology.
U_ In and
Upland plant species include douglas fir (Pseutdotsuga menziesii, FACU), western
eFACU)a word
cedar
(Thuja plicata,FAC), red alder(Alnus rubra,FAC), salal (Gaultheria shallo ,FAC stinging
fern (Polystichum munitum, FACU), bleeding heart (Dicentra Formosa, FAC a stinging
nettle (Dioica urtica, FAC), brackenfern (Pteridium aquilinurn, FACU), Hinotw an
Indian plum (Oemleria cerasiformis, FACU), y
(Polygonium cuspidatum, NI),
blackberry(Rubus discolor,FACU),and salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis,FAC+).
WETLAND EVALUATION RESULTS
Although the forested/shrub portion of the wetland within the property is a freshwater system.
the state rating form requires that in the case of an estuarine wetland that is within the
delineated boundary of a freshwater wetland, the entire area is rated as an estuarine wof an the
(see Page 2 of the rating form in Appendix Q. This wetland must be treated as p�
estuarine wetland for rating purposes because there is no upland or hydrological barrier
separating the two. Therefore, the wetland area within the property is regulated as part of a
Category I Estuarine Wetland.
The estuarine portion of the wetland located west of the property is classified as a salt-water
tidal fringe wetland per Washington State Wetland Rating System for Western Washington
PO Boz 2854 Belfair>Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360 620 0618.Office Phone 360 372-2421 wedandcorps@hounail.com
•
Belscott Wetland Delineation
Project TWC10W350
April,2010
Page No.7
(Hruby 2004). Salt-water tidal-fringe wetlands are rated in the section titled"Wetlands Based
on Special Characteristics"on the state rating form.
pact
As this site is to be managed for commercialLaor se h density residential use, a High is described.in Section 17.0 070BIof the
Land Use Buffer is applied. Nigh Impact
Mason County Resource Ordinance as Commercial, Urban,
Now agriculture(high intensity
Sales, Residential subdivisions with more than 1 unit/acre, crops
processing such as dairies, nurseries and green houses,
raising aon corridors, Higlirintensity
annual tilling, raising and maintaining animals),
recreation (golf courses,ball fields), and hobby farms.
According to Section 17.01.070E of the Mason ta County
250 foot buffer withan additional nance, all rl5l
Estuarine Wetlands in Mason County requireact Land Use.
foot building setback,for parcels intended for High Imp
l Permit
Development within the regulated buffer �ev wll uir Mason wetland buffets mitigation plan
which is obtained using an administrative process. application for review. Chapter
would need to be prepared and submitted with the MEP
17.01.070 outlines the general criteria for wetland mitigation.
F.MITIGATION FOR WETLAND IMPACTS
As a condition of any permit allowing alteration of wetlands and/or wetland buffers,
the County shall require that the applicant engage in the restoration, creation or
enhancement of wetlands and their buffers in order to offset the impacts resulting
from the applicant's actions. If wetland or wetland buffer impacts are proposed, a
sequence of review must be considered. First, the applicant must consider avoiding
the wetland or wetland buffer. If the applicant can not avoid the wetland or wetland
buffer, they must consider reducing (or minimizing) the impact. Impacts which can
not be avoided must be mitigated as provided in this ordinance.Mitigation for buffers
ted by
shall be on a minimum 1:1 ratio. Approval of the mitigation
plan sandl Director of the
be sinif
a notarized memorandum of agreement signed by the applicant
evelopment or designee, and recorded with the Mason
Department of Community D
refer to all requirements for the mitigation
County Auditor. The agreement shall
project. The County may suspend or revoke a permit if it finds that the applicant has
not complied with the conditions or limitations set forth in the permit or has exceeded
the scope of work set for in the permit.The overall goal of any compensatory project
shall be no net loss of wetlands function and acreage.
TWC has prepared several Weapproveduld be happyand to develop mitigation buffer mitigation plan or he Belscott
n County as
well as the Belfair UGA. W
project and can do so in a timely manner and at a competitive rate.
STREAM EVALUATION
The regulated stream channel within the property begins at the culvert outlet near the existing
SFR within the ownership, and meanders westerly throughout the wetland, to eventually drain
PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-620-0618.Office Phone 360 372-2421•wetlandcorps@hotmail.com
Belscott Wetland Delineation
C10W350
ProjectrW
April,2010
Page No-8
The portion of the channel within the ownership has
into Hood Canal west of the ownership. Po adient of less than 5
an average width of approximately 3 feet, and is situated along a slope gr
than two
percent. According to WAC 16.222.03 1,channels that have average re assumed todcontaith entfishb acing
feet and are along a slope gradient of less than 16 percent a
habitat. Therefore, the onsite stream meets criteria for a type F stream. All type F streams in
Mason County require a buffer of 150 feet with an additional 15-foot building setback.
A u
4 t�
r•
J +t
r
Photo 3. Onsite stream
According to chapter 17.01.040 of the
ffeMwould on County require Resource Ordinance,
�ubmittal of adevelopment Habitat
or construction within the stream buffer qualify for
Management Plan. There are certain proposals
HMP, but are reviewed through the MEP
buffer reductions. Buffer reductions q
process which is a more cost and time effective eprocess.areas suchalf parking loer ts and storage
ns are most
commonly applied to already developed
sites.
PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-b20 0618.Office Phone 360 372-2421 wetlandcorpsC hotmail.com
4
Belscott Wetland Delineation
project TWc10W350
April,2010
Page No-9
SUMMARY
guous
This wetland report documents the Pre soci ted with HoodrCanal and he Union which s Riover The
with the estuarine wetland system as d classification criteria for a
estuarine portion of the wetland meets Mason County,s wetlan the
of
Category I Estuarine Wetland. The freshwaterstem requirements, and therefore s considered Part
regulated
estuarine wetland according to the state rating y
as part of the Category I Wetland All bEstuarinne uffer with an ory Wetlands aye building setb ck for
County requiring a standard 250-foot
parcels intended for High hnpact Land Use. Wn l constructin and Buffeo with on Plan-
require
buffer will
require a Mason Environmental Pe and a
A type F stream is also present at the site. Type F streams in Mason County require a buffer
of 150 feet with an addi will
tional 15-foot buildingaback. Dev ement Plano Spec ficpment tsite cond the itions such
require a Variance and submittal of a Habitatg
as the presence of cement parking lots and compacted industrial fill most likely qualify the site
for proposals to be reviewed through a buffer reduction oriented MEP.
Thank you for choosing The Wetland Corps as your environmental consultant. We trust this
information is sufficient for your needs at this time. If you have any questions, feel free to
call.
Respectfully submitted,
The Wetland Corps
Heather Lane
Lee Boad Staff Wetland Specialist
Senior Ecologist
PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528•Cell Phone 360-6i 6 0618.Office Fhone 360 372-2421•wetlandcorps@hotmail.com
{
Beiscott Wetland Delineation
Project TWC1OW350
April,2010
Page No.10
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.ith D C.
and
Wildlife Service document FWS/OBS-79/31. 84 pp.
Hitchcock,L.C.and A.Cronquist, 1973. Flora of the Pacific Northwest.
University of Washington Press.. 730 pp.
Hruby,T.,2004. Washington State Weiland Rating System for Western Washington—Revised. Washington
State Department of Ecology Publication#044)"25.
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 Kitsap
County Area, Washington. September, 1951.
US Fish and Wildlife Service. National Wetlands Inventory. 1978.
Washington State Department of Ecology, 1997. Washington State Wetland
Identification and Delineation Manual. Ecology Publication#96-94,
various pagination.Olympia,Washington.
Washington State Department of Ecology, 1993.Washington State Wetlands
Rating System, Western Washington Second Edition.61 pp.Ecology
Publication#93-74.Olympia,Washington.
Washington State Department of Ecology, 1999. Methods for Assessing
Wetland Functions for Reverine and Depressional Wetlands in the
Lowlands of Western Washington. Ecology Publication#99-115.Olympia,
Washington.
United States Fish and Wildlife Service, 1993.National List of Plant Species that
Occur in Wetlands Region 9—Northwest. Resource Management Group
PO Box 2854 Belfair,Washington 98528 Cell Phone 360 620 0618 Office Phone 360-372-2421 wetiandcorpsC�hotmail.com
Oak Palch Like M
0
Approximate parcel
X locations M i
in
Ha ven Lake ke"P Ir CL Lat'Son Lake Z
7-
co
Ui
Erdman Lakc LU
lu
LU
Z! AT
CID
Collins Lake
Howell Lake 01
A
—-4p
4,
4� r 4Q E ALTA DR
oevere,"x Lake
06�ff`,
-------------------— FIGURE 1 VICINITY MAP
Project Name: BELSCOTT Wetland
Delineation
' Location: Belfair,Washington
Project: TWC10-350
THE WETLANDCORPS Client: Judy Scott
Date: 04/10
F
ap was created by TWC by
measurements and information
al sources, including the Mason NE State Route 3
sessor Aerial photo 2005 and
aerial images and measurements.
s are approximate.
250'
� � 1
t�arc1 f 2t ♦♦ , , Chili pry^,(1#t ')F1
LI e$ori' l ♦ ♦ a ���. ,iitli ; !� 1
♦ ♦ 1 . :lrl frv'
Wetland ♦ ♦ t
2 0' buffer+ 15* ♦ ♦ ♦ / l
1111ilding setback ♦ �°�"� ,"�
1'tfrm t♦;�. �rt i
— ..
/ ♦ ♦
♦15W / s
Op
r oo
/ ' ♦ 0 200'
le ♦ !
Tyne F Stream
150 r+ 15'
building;setback r N
FIGURE 2. SITE MAP
Project Name: BELSCOTT Wetland Delineation
Location: Belfair,Washington
Project: TWC10-350
Client: Judy Scott
�1U Date: 04/10
THE WETLAND CORPS
Map Legend
CONUS Citias _ Approximate
Parcel
CONUS States tOt)K Locations
,
Lower 48 Wetland Polygons
blual ene and Mar in!oe"watef
kstuarine and Marine Wetiard
Frnshwrtrr Emesgrnt Wetland '`, ; ;r Y'
F(v%rwkler Iote%ted'Shtuu Vlrtlan(f N„M
Freehwaler pond r
00101
Rivlrin! _ .�
_ N
Yb.r a� 4 f i
e
L i
Figure 3 National Wetland Inventory Map
Figure adapted from NWI Section 29 Township 23N Range 01W
Mapper website
FIGURE 3 NWI MAP
Project Name: BELSCOTT Wetland Delineation
Location: Belfair,Washington
Ar Project: TWCIO-350
Client: Judy Scott
Date: 04/10
THE WTTLAND CORPS
sy.
Approximate {
.s k Parcel
a ? Locations
u
4, $
ig
*t
,
Soil onsite Conditions based on Mason County Soil Survey
ell-drained,brown,silty sails on the uplands.they
Saxon silt loam,5 to 15 percent slopes(Sa).-The Saxon series consists of friable,w
have developed from Vashon glacial
moisture-hake sediment
i similar tto tha of h iK4� 601inchs. es a year The vegetationtce drainage is well asva dense forest of
so
drainage is medium,and g g
ood.The rainfall fir,cedar,and alder,with a dense undercover of salal,vine maple,bracken fern,and sword fern.Saxon soils differ from the Kitsap soils in
having browner surface soil and less dense subsoil,and in containing shot.
Everett gravelly sandy loam,5 to 15 percent slopes (Eh).-The Everett series consists of somewhat excessively drained,pale-brown
gravelly soils.They occur as inextensive gravel ridges on the glacial moraines or,more commonly,as fairly continuous outwash channels
between ridges of Alderwood soils.They have developed upon assorted glacial till and outwash material.The rainfall is 45 to 60 inches a
year. The vegetation is mainly drought-resistant madrone, manzanita, and kinnikinnick. Everett soils are droughty because the loose
gravel and sandy subsoil and substratum offer little resistance to downward movement of water.The capacity of the surface soil to hold
available moisture is low.Everett soils are in the eastern half of the county,in association with the Alvera pal soils.They also occur in
intricate patterns with the Kitsap and Indianola soils.Compared to the Grove soils,the Everett soils have a paler surface soil and subsoil
and,in development,were dominated more by acid igneous parent rock.
Mukilteo peat,shallow over gravel,0 to 2 percent slopes(Mh).-The Mukilteo series consists of peat that is mainly partly decomposed
sedges, spirea twigs, and roots. Peat bogs usually are densely covered bys materiaa and l.rOccasionally. Mukilenerally free of teo peatees d other has a cover of
Intermixed with the spirea are various sedges that form a good part P
eatdeciduous trees,brush,and shrubs in place of the spirea.Mukilteo peatids widespreadmonths hs° the year. Artificial draroughout the county,and it inagencan he used to
part of the upland bogs.This peat is very poorly drained and often po Y
remove excess moisture.Mukilteo peat is more acid and less fertile than McMurray peat.
FIGURE 4 SOIL SURVEY
Project Name: BELSCUTT Wetland
4*40r Delineation
Location: Belfair,Washington
THE WETLAND CORPS Project: TWCIO-350
Client: Judy Scott
nato! Od11 0
i7086 170 26 +7086 170872
Approximate 1708 17 8622 +
- ► Site + If +
location
Y1 a
' 17 606 +708608 1 70
1708508 � � i '02 + ,y
1707684 1 686 +3 7688 1 0778
1707588 1707680
1707682 +-
S Puget.Sou nd
SIP�EA-iIS SOILS
H drie Soili
/- :?-:nr-.�!ra:r:.de 1•i;tlile i5tabe
t- ghly E:ociale SLOPE
:ledka:ll S ole TIiS[3�11:
Ii,.5t31}fl:_,
1� tt2t '�:t l:.li?2 No IYt 4 or Gf-- el
FIGURE 5 DNR STREAM MAP
Project Name: BELSCOTT Wetland
�r Delineation
THE WETLAND CORPS Location: Belfair,
10- Washington
Project: TWC10-350
Client: Judy Scott
Date: 04/10
APPENDIX A
Routine Wetland Determination Data Forms
Routine Wetland Determination
DATA FORM 1 (Revised)
I
WA State Wetland Delineation Manual or 1987 Corps Wetland Delineation
04/21//22010a
rApplicantlowneri
ct/Site'. Belscott Wetland Delineation County: Mason
Judy Scott State: WA
stigator(s): H. Lane SIT/R: 29 T23N R01W
Yes'-- Community ID: Forested/shrub
Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Transect ID: 1
Is the site significantly disturbed (atypical situation}? No No Plot ID: Freshwater Wetland
Is the area a potential problem area?
Explanation of atVDiGaI or problem area:
VEGETATION (For"strata, indicate T=tree; S=shrub; H = herb; V vine)
Plant species 'Stratum %cover Indicator Dominant Plant Species *Stratum % cover Indicator
DominantP FAC Carex obnupta
Thuja plicata T H FAC
S FAC+ Maianthemum diliatum
Rubes spectabitis H OBL
H FAC Oenanthe sarmentosa
Athyrium fiiix-femina
Equisetum fluviatile H FACW
Lysichiton americanum H OBL --
Maianthemum dilatatum H FAC
-
HYDROPHYT►C 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 Pers
Morphological adaptations ona Pknowledge of regional plant communities
❑
X Technical Literature
❑ Other(explain)
Hydrophytic vegetation present? Yes
Rationale for decision/Remarks: > 50%of dominants OBL, FAC &FACW
HYDROLOGY Water Marks: Yes Sediment Deposits: No
Is it the growing season? Yes
Drift Lines: No Drainage Patterns: Yes
Based on: April
Depth of inundation: Up to 4 inches
Oxidized Root(live roots)
Local Soil Survey: Yes
Channels<12n.: No
Depth to free water in pit: 5 inches
FAC Neutral: Yes Water-stained Leaves: Yes
Depth to saturated soil: 0 inches Other(explain):
Check all that apply &explain below:
❑ Stream, lake or gage data
X Aerial photographs
❑ Other
Wetland hydrology present? yes
Rationale for decision/remarks: Primary and secondary indicators present.
SOILS Drainage Class: poorly drained
Map Unit Name: Mh-Mukilteo Muck mapped type? Yes
Field observations confirm yP
Profile Description - Drawing of soil profile
Depth Matrix color Mottle colors Mottle abundance Texture,concretions, 9
i
(inches) (Munsell moist) Munsell moist size and contrast structure,-etc-
u kure,etc. (match description)
0_12 7.5YR 311
Hydric Soil Indicators: (check all that apply) X Matrix chroma<_2 with mottles
❑Histosol
❑ istic Epipedon X Mg or Fe Concretions
H
❑ istic is 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
1 matrix ❑Other ex lain in remarks
X Gleyed or Low-Chroma(_ )
Hydric soils present?Yes (mottling)
,listed on National Hydric
Rationale for decision/Remarks: Low-chroma= 1 in the entire soil profile,redoximorphic features
Soils List
rHydrophytic
Determination
vegetation present?Yes
oils 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 4197
Routine Wetland Determination
DATA FORM 1 (Revised
WA State Wetland Delineation Manual or 1987 Corps Wetland DDlate 04/21Mp manual)
rApplicanVowner:
Site: Belscott Wetland Delineation County: Mason
Judy Scott State: WA
ator(s): H. Lane SIT/R: 29T23N R01W
Community ID: Forestedishrub
Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Yes Transect ID: 2
Is the site significantly disturbed (atypical situation)? N0
00 plot ID: Freshwater Wetland
Is the area a potential problem area?
Ex lanation 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
T FAC Carex obnupta
Thuja plicata H FAC
T FAC Maianthemum diliatum
Alnus rubs H OBL
Physocarpos capitatus S FACW- Oenanthe sarmentosa OBL
FAC+ Lysichiton americanum H
Rubus spectabilis S H OBL
S FAC Equisetum fluviatile
Rosa nutkana
Athyrium fiGx-femina
H FAC
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/reproducbve 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, FAC & FACW
HYDROLOGY Sediment Deposits: No
Is it the growing season? Yes
Water Marks: Yes
Based on: April
Drift Lines: No Drainage Patterns: Yes
Depth of inundation: Up to 8 inches
Oxidized Root(live roots) Local Soil Survey: Yes
Channels <12it: No
Depth to free water in pit: 2 inches
FAC Neutral: Yes Water-stained Leaves: Yes
Depth to saturated soil: 0 inches Other(explain):
Check all that apply &explain below. ( p
❑ Stream, lake or gage data
X Aerial photographs
❑ Other
Wetland hydrology present? yes
Rationale for decision/remarks: Primary and secondary indicators present.
SOILS Drainage Class: poorly drained
Map Unit Name: Mh-Mukiitea Muck Field observations confirm mapped type? Yes
Profile Description Texture,concretions, Drawing of soil profile
Depth Matrix color Mottle colors Mottle abundance (match description)
(inches) (Munsell moist (Munsell moist) size and contrast structure,etc.
0-12 7.5YR 311
Hydric Soil Indicators: (check all that apply) X Matrix chroma<_2 with mottles
❑Histosol
X Mg or Fe Concretions
❑ Histic Epipedon
❑ High Organic Content in Surface Layer of Sandy Soils
❑ Sulfidic Odor
❑Aquic Moisture Regime ❑ Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils
X Listed on National/Local Hydric Soils List
❑ Reducing Conditions
❑Other(explain in remarks
X Gieyed or Low-Chroma(=1) matrix
Hydric soils present?Yes
the entire soil profile,redoximaphic features(mottling),
Rationale for decision/Remarks: Low-chroma= 1 in listed on National 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
cators present for all three wetland parameters.
Rationale/Remarks: Positive wetland indi
NOTES: Revised 4197
Routine Wetland Determination
DATA FORM 1 (Revised
WA State Wetland Delineation Manual or 1987 CorpsWetland Delineation
04/21//22010a1)
r
ct/Site: BelscottWetland Delineation County: Mason
cant/owner: Judy Scott State: WA
stigator(s): H. Lane SIT/R: 29 T23N R01W
Community ID: Forested/shrub
Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Yes Transect fD: 3
Is the site significantly disturbed (atypical situation)? No Plot ID: Freshwater Wetland
Is the area a potential problem area?
Explanation of atypical or roblem area:
VEGETATION (For'strata, indicate T =tree; S= shrub; H = herb, V=vine)
Dominant Plant S cies "Stratum %cover Indicator Dominant Plant S ecies Stratum %cover indicator
Alnus rubra
T FAC
Rubus spectabitis
S FAC+
Athyrium filix-femina
H FAC
Ranunculus repens
H FAC+
Urtica dioica H FAC
OBL
Equisetum fluviatile H --
HYDROPHYTIC VEGETATION INDICATORS:
%of dominants OBL, FACW, &FAC: > 50%
Check all indicators that apply and explain below: Ph siolo ica{/reproductive adaptations
❑ Visual observation of plant species growing in ❑ Y g
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, FAC & FACW
HYDROLOGY Water Marks: Yes Sediment Deposits: No
is it the growing season? Yes
Based on: April
Drift Lines: No Drainage Patterns: Yes
Depth of inundation: Up to 3 inches Oxidized Root(live roots)
Local Soil Survey: Yes
Channels <12n: No
Depth to free water in pit: 8 inches
FAC Neutral: Yes Water-stained Leaves: Yes
Depth to saturated soil: 0 inches
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 Drainage Class: poorly drained
Map Unit Name: Mh-Mukilteo Muck Field observations confirm mapped type? Yes
Profile Description Texture,concretions, Drawing of soil profile
Depth Matrix color Mottle colors Mottle abundance match description)
(inches Munsell moist) Munsell moist size and contrast structure,etc.
0-12 7.5YR 3/1
Hydric Soil Indicators: (check ail that apply) X Matrix chroma<2 with mottles
Histosol
� X Mg or Fe Concretions
❑ Histic Epipedon
❑ High Organic Content in Surface Layer of Sandy Soils
❑ Sulfidic Odor ❑Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils
❑Aquic Moisture Regime
X Listed on National/Local Hydric Soils List
❑ Reducing Conditions _
1 ❑Other ex lain in remarks
X Gleyed or Low-Chroma(_ )matrix
Hydric soils present?Yes the entire soil profile,redoximorphic features(mottling), listed on National Hydric
Rationale for decision/Remarks: Low-chroma= 1 in
Soils List
Wetland Determination
Hydrophytic vegetation present?Yes
Hydric soils present? Yes
Wetland hydrology present?Yes
Is the sampling point within a wetland?Yes resent for all three wetland parameters.
Rationale/Remarks: Positive wetland indicators p
Revised 4197
NOTES:
Routine Wetland Determination
DATA FORM 1 (Revised)
WA State Wetland Delineation Manual or 1987 Corps Wetland Delineation 04/21/10nua1)
rpplicant/owner�
t/Site: Belscott Wetland Delineation County: Mason
Judy Scott State: WA
igator(s): H. Lane SIT/R: 29 T23N R01 W
Community ID: forested/shrub
Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Yes Transect ID: 3
is the site significantly disturbed (atypical situation)? No
Is the area a potential problem area?
No Plot ID: Upland
Explanation of atypical or oroblern area:
VEGETATION (For'strata: indicate T=tree, S= shrub; H = herb, V= vine)
s *Str
Dominant Plant Species `Stratum %cover Indicator Dominant Plant S ecieal�tum % cover FACU Indicator
Dom FACU Dicentra Formosa
Alnus rubra T
Thuja plicata T FAC
polygonium cuspidatum
S NI
Rubus discolor S FACU
Urtica dioica H FAC
Polystichum munitum
H FACU
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 Water Marks: No Sediment Deposits: No
Is it the growing season? Yes
Based on: April
Drift Lines: No Drainage Patterns: No
Oxidized Root(live roots)
Local Soil Survey: No
Depth of inundation: No inundation Channels <12i1:
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 Drainage Class: moderately well drained
Map Unit Name: Sa-Saxon silt loam Yes
Field observations confirm mapped type?
Profile Description - Drawing of soil profile
Depth Matrix color Mottle colors Mottle abundance Texture,concretions, 9
(inches (Munsell moist) Munsell moist) size and contrast structure,etc. (match description
)
Silt loam
0-6 10YR 3/2
Silt loam
6-12 10YR 3/3
Hydric Soil Indicators: (check all that apply)
❑ Histosol ❑Matrix chroma<2 with mottles
Histic Epipedon ❑Mg or Fe Concretions
El❑HistSuli 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
(=1)matrix
Other(explain in remarks
El Gleyed or Low-Chroma
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
RationatelRemarks: 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 Man al or 1987 Corps Wetland Delineation
04/21//110nua1)
u
Project/Site: Belscott Wetland Delineation County: Mason
Applicant/ownev Judy Scott State: WA
Investigator(s): H. Lane SIT/R: 29 T23N R01W
Yes Community ID: forested/shrub
Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Transect ID: 2
Is the site significantly disturbed (atypical situation)? No Plot ID: Upland
Is the area a potential problem area?
Explanation of at pical or roblem area:
VEGETATION (For-strata, indicate T=tree, S= shrub; H = herb: V=vine)
Dominant Plant S ecies "Stratum %cover Indicator Dominant Plant Species 'Stratum %cover Indicator
FACU
Pseudotsuga menziesh T
T FAC
Thuja plicata
T FAC+
Alnus rubra
S FACU
Gaultheria shallop FACU
Polystichum muniturn S
S FACU
Rubus discolor
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 Sediment Deposits: No
Is it the growing season? Yes
Water Marks: No
Drift Lines: No Drainage Patterns: No
Based ow April
_
Oxidized Root(live roots) Local Soil Survey: No
Depth of inundation: No inundation _Channels<12in:
Depth to free water in pit: > 16
FAC Neutral: No Water-stained Leaves: No
Depth to saturated soil: > 16
Other(explain):
Check all that apply & explain below:
❑ Stream, lake or gage data
X Aerial photographs
❑ Other _"-
Wetland hydrology present? No
Rationale for decision/remarks: No indicators present
SOILS Drainage Class. moderately well drained
Map Unit Name: Sa-Saxon silt loam Field observations confirm mapped type? Yes
Profile Description Texture,concretions, Drawing of soil profile
Matrix color Mottle colors Mottle abundance
Depth (match description)
(inches) (Munseli moist Munsell moist size and contrast Silt loam
etc.
0-6 1CYR 3/2
Silt loam
6-12 10YR 3/3
Hydric Soil Indicators: (check all that apply) Matrix chroma<_2 with mottles
❑ Histosol ❑ Mg or Fe Concretions
❑ Histic Epipedon
❑ High Organic Content in Surface Layer of Sandy Soils
❑ Sulfidic Odor []Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils
❑Aquic Moisture Regime 01-isted on National/Local Hydric Soils List
❑Reducing Conditions
1 matrix ❑ Other(explain in remarks
ElGleyed or Low-Chroma(_ }
Hydric soils present? No
Rationale for decision/Remarks:No indicators present.
Wetland Determination
Hydrophytic vegetation present?No
Hydric soi{s present? No
LRation::a:le/�Remarks:
nd hydrology present?No
samint within a wetland?No
Positive wetland indicators not present for all three wetland parameters.
Revised 4/97
NOTES:
Routine Wetland Determination
DATA FORM 1 (Revised)
WA State Wetland Delineation Manual or 1987 Corps Wetland Dlate: lion /M1anual)
Project/Site: Belscott Wetland Delineation County: Mason
Applicant/owner: Judy Scott State: WA
Investigator(s): H. Lane SIT/R: 29 T23N R01W
— Community ID: forested/shrub
Do normal circumstances exist on the site? Yes Transect ID: 1
Is the site significantly disturbed (atypical situation)? No plot ID: Upland
Is the area a potential problem area?
No
Ex lanation 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 S ecies *Stratum Hum %cover FAC
ator
Pseudotsuga menziesii T FACU Urtica dioica H FACU
Thuja plicata T FAC Dicentra Formosa
Alnus rubra
T FAC+
Rubus spectabilis
S FAC+
Oemleria cerasirformis S FACU
Rubus discolor
S FACU
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 Water Marks: No Sediment Deposits: No
Is it the growing season? Yes
Based on: April
Drift Lines: No Drainage Patterns: No
Depth of inundation: No inundation
Oxidized Root(live roots) Local Soil Survey: No
Channels <12ii:
Water-stained Leaves: No
Depth to free water in pit: > 16
FAC Neutral: 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
Drainage Class: moderately well drained
Map Unit Name: Sa-Saxon silt loam
Field observations confirm mapped type?Yes
Profile Description Drawing of soil profile
Depth Matrix color Mottle colors Mottle abundance Texture,concretions, (match description)
inches) Munsell moist (Munsell moist) size and contrast structure,etc.
Silt loam
0-6 10YR 3/2
Silt loam
6-12 10YR 3/3
I
Hydric Soil Indicators: (check all that apply) ❑ Matrix chroma<_2 with mottles
❑ Histosol
❑
❑ Histic Epipedon Mg or Fe Concretions
❑ Su►fidic Odor El High Organic Content in Surface Layer of Sandy Soils
❑Aquic Moisture Regime ❑ Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils
El Reducing Conditions ❑Listed on National/Local Hydric Soils List
(=1)matrix
Other ex Lain in remarks
El Gleyed or Low-Chroma
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 4197
APPENDIX B
Soil Survey Text
SAXON SERIES
The Saxon series consists of friable,well-drained,lak similar soils on the
uplands.
that of the Kits p soils.
have developed from Vashon glacial
Surface drainage is well developed, internal drainage is medium,vegetation i moisture dse
holding capacity is good. The rainfall is 45 to 60 inches a Y vine maple,bracken fern,
forest of fir, cedar, and alder,with a dense undercover of salal, e Soil
and sword fern. Saxon soils differ from the Saxxon siltils loam, 5 to 15 having percent slopes
and less dense subsoil, and in containing shot.
(Sa).-This soil occurs on rolling or gently rolling benches near Belfair.The surface soil is
friable and moderately granular, brown silt oa8is underlain by o 10 inches lck. It a paletbrowntly acid
friab e
and contains many roots and very little shot.
silt loam, which at depths between 15 and�cture. yellowi h browngrades to a b sta ns occur along
subsoil having weak, subangular blocky acted,
root channels. Below a depth and silt,t� which nches, tcontinue to depths of he subsoil grades to several compacted,
feet•
stratified, and platy fine sand Or
owth
The slight compaction in this material errmeable not e has a good capactrict movement ity to h ld available
Of roots.The soil is deep,friable, P
been cleared and is used mainly for
moisture. Use and suitability.-Much ofhisown soil ha
s
local markets and for home use on
hay, grain, and Pasture. Vegetables aregr are favorably with
many small, intensively farmed garden plots. Yields of crops compt on the
those on the best upland soils, and they
moderately fertile,ly slightly nitrog than nand Organise ob c matter
better flood-plain soils.Though the soil is and manure, or through use of green
must be maintained through additions of barnyard
, when it is used
manure crops. Commercial nitrogen fertilizeerbenef�sg oilers in capability subclass We
with phosphate, additional benefits are obtained.
and in site class 3 for Douglas-fir.
EVERETT SERIES ate-brown gravelly soils.
The Everett series consists of somewhat excessively drained, p They occur as inextensive gravel ridges LWee e ridged glacial moraines or, more commonly,of Alderwood soils. They have
fairly continuous outwash channels be
developed upon assorted glacial till and of S�'SCsahii maadrone manzanita,terial.The rainfall is 45 to 60 inches kinn kinnick.
a year.The vegetation is mainly drought-resistant gravel and sandy subsoil and substratum
Everett soils are droughty because the loose gra surface
offer little resistance to downward movement of wwater.' easterncapac ty of half of the
countyl in
hold available moisture is low. Everettsoils . intricate
association with the Alderwood soils. e soilsso , t In he Everett so
i e
s have a paler surface
and Indianola soils. Compared to the Grov
soil and subsoil and, in development,were dominated more by acid
d igneouss is pa extensive
rent rock..
Everett gravelly sandy loam, 5 to 15 percent slopes (El)•- a ish-brown material, a
Everett soil. In undisturbed forests 1 to 2 inches of very dark gr y
moss, and roots,covers the surface. The surface
mixture of needles,leaves,twigs, cones,
soil is loose, single-grained, Pale-brown, gravelly sandy loam, 6 to 8 inches thick. The
upper
that are slightly hard and redder than
2 or 3 inches normally contains aggre
the others in the layer. To depths ranging from 18 to 24 inches,ethe lsubsoil
amy sand. ,The
singlegrained, light yellowish-brown gravelly sandy loam or gravelly
amount of shot decreases with depth;in the lower part only elfew
Wish brown sand,st occur.The subsoil
grades to a substratum of poorly assorted. predominantly ythis
and cobbly material that is extremely loose n iplar largely determinedever, in by tes,gavelmcoarse
will stand in banks. The color of this mat yellowish brown,light brownish gray,
sand,and cobbles,which are olive gray,pale olive,
gray, and dark gray. Many of the cobbles, as well as much of the gravel, are faintly to
moderately stained by iron. The amount o�gravel
thsubstratum.rangesThe sobout il is medium to
percent m the subsoient to 50
l to as much as 80 percent soil
strongly acid and becomes less-acid ith dries ou depth.
a and mature. j, a very lsmall
droughty for most tilled crops
acreage is cultivated, and this is ordinarily i f is armed best.with better
otnerof the better soils for
of this soil is in brush and trees, forse of
growing Douglasfirs that are cut for s hriisstms. as reel.is This
nisa n important
lipy t nt u VIshand in
large acreages are used for Christmas
site class 4 for Douglas-fir.
MUKILTEO SERIES decomposed sedges, spirea,
The Mukilteo series consists of peat that is mainly partly
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,
hru
s in
Mukilteo peat has a cover of deciduous the countyhandat combpriseplthe largest part of
Mukilteo peat is widespread throng months of the
the upland bogs. This peat is very poorly drained and often ponded many
year. Artificial drainage can be used to remove excess moisture. Mukilteo peat is more
acid and less fertile than McMurray peat. This soil differs from
Mukilteo peat,shallow over gravel,0 to 2 percent slopes (Mh).-
Mukilteo peat,0 to 2 percent slopes,in that the gravelly substratum is normally at a depth
of 14 to 24 inches. Use and suitability.-Use and suitability of this soil are the same as for
Mukilteo peat,0 to 2 percent slopes.The soil is in capability subclass IVw.
Appendix C
Washington State Wetland Rating System Form
WETLAND RATING FORM—WESTERN WASHINGTON
Name of wetland(if known): BELSCOTT Wetland
Location: SEC: 29
TWNSHP:23N_ RNGE: I W_ (attach map with outline of wetland to rating form)
Affiliation: TWC Date of site visit: 04/21/10
Persons)Rating Wetland: H_Lane
SUMMARY OF RATING
Category based on FUNCTIONS provided by wetland IV--
I Ili_ 111�_
[Category
tegory I = Score>70
Score for Water Quality Functions
egory
li= Score 51 -69 Score for Hydrologic Functions
egory III= Score 30—50
Score for Habitat Functions
IV= Score<30
TOTAL Score for Functions
Category based on SPECIAL CHARACTERISTCS of Wetland
I X II Does not apply
Final Category(choose the"highest'"category from above")
Ch9the
k the appropriate type and class of wetland being rated.
etland T e Wetland Class
X De ressional
Riverine
erita a Wetland Lake-frin e
Slo e X
orest Flats
th Forest Freshwater Tidal
La oon
al
the above
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
re ulations regarding the special characteristics found in the wetland. YES NO
Check List for Wetlands that Need Special Protection,
and That are Not Included in the Ratin X
Federally listed Threatened or
SP1. Has the wetland been documented as a habitat for any Y
Endangered plant or animal species(TIE species)?
"documented means the wetland is on the appropriate
For the purposes of this rating system, >, X
state or federal database.
SP2. Has the wetland been documented as habitat for any State listed Threatened or Endangered
plant or animal species? For the purposes of this rating system,"documented"means the
wetland is on the a ro riate state database. X
icance in
SP3. Does the wetland contain individuals o Priori s ecies listed b the WDFW or the state? X
on to
ions? For
iti
SP4. Does the wee,the
tland have Q n the Shoreline Maser Program,thetCrit cal Ar local signij eas Ordinance,or
wetland has been identif
in a local mana ement tan as havin s ecial si nificance.
sheet. ou
l
To complete the next o h the d
H dro gg s of the wetland bei d to determine the
n rated
dro eomorphic Class of a wetland can be determined using the key
needed to answer how well the wetland functions. The H thosge that function in similar ways. This simplifies the questions
The hydrogeomorphic classification groups wetlandsY
below. See p.24 for more detailed instructions on classifying wetlands.
Classification of Vegetated Wetlands for Western Washington
Date: 04/21/10
Wetland Name: BELSCOTT Wetland
1. Are the water levels in the wetland usually controlled by tides(i.e. except during floods)?
Np= o to 2 YES-the wetland class is Tidal Fringe p t arts per thousand)?
If yes,is the salinity of the water during periods of annual low flow beloSaltwater Tidal Fringe(Estuarine)
YES-Freshwater Tidal Fringe Riverine
ge use thef
If your wetland can be classified as a Freshwater Tidal
wl land.nWetlands that werercall estuarine lin the first and second
Saltwater Tidal Fringe it is rated as an Es in the Hydrogeomorphic Classification. Estuarine
editions of the rating system are called Salt Water Tidal Fringe
ion
wetlands were categorized separately in the earlier sduarine" wetland is keptns,and this 1OPleaselnoteehowever,that the
To
maintain consistency between editions,
and Ilte term
estuarine wetlands have changed(see p. ._�•
characteristics that define Category
2. Is the topography within the wetland flat and precipitation is only source(>90%)of water to it.
YES-The wetland class is Flats
NO-ge to`3
If your wetland can be classified as a"hats"wetland,use the form for Depressional wetlands.
3. Does the wetland meet both of the following criteria? f open water(without any g vegetation on the
The vegetated part of the wetland is on the shores of a bodyinun 0 d(ponded or flooded);
surface)where at least 20 acres(8ha)are permanently
At least 30%of the open water area is deeper than 6.6(2 m)?
- v to;4 YES-The wetland class is Lake-fringe(Lacustrine Fringe)
4. Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria9 gradual)n a slope(slope can be very g
through the wetland S one direction w without distinct banks(unidirectional)and usually comes from seeps.
X The water flows t may
X The wetland is o
now subsurface,as sheetflow,or in aale
X The water leaves the wetland without
in thegse types of wetlands except occasionally in very small and
NOTE: Surface water does not p
shallow depressions or behind hummocks (depr
essions are usually<3 ft diameter and less than 1 foot deep).
NO-go to 5 ygg-;The-We>land elass is Slope that
om
5.
Is the wetland in a valley,or stream channel,where it getsa inundated
b overbnswer ank flooding
wetland castream
containnver? The
flooding should occur at least once every two years,on t g
depressions that are filled with water when the river is not flooding.
NO-go to 6 YES-The wetland class is Riverine
rated 6. Is the wetland in a topographic depression in which h�r ponds,
o d of the wetland. to the surface,at some time of the year.
This means that any outlet, if present is higher than
NO-go to 7 YES-The wetland class is Depressional
7. Is the wetland located in a very flat area with no obvious depressional and no stream or river running may be ditched,but
through it an
providing water. The wetland seems to be maintained by high groundwater in the area. The wetland
has no obvious natural outlet.
No-go to 8 YES-The wetland class is Depressional ay grade into a riverine
s at the base of a slope
g. Your wetland seems stream within a depressional wetland has a to be difficult to classify. For example, pzone of flooding along its sides. Sometimes we find
floodplain,or a smallUse the following table to
characteristics of several different hydro geomorphic classes within one wetland boundary. resent
identify the appropriate class to use for the rating system
nu have the secondral HGM eo column rep esentclasses s 10%orlmore of the total rea
NOTE: Use this table only if the class that is recommended
of the wetland being rated. If the area of the second class is less than 10%classify
to Use inand us ng the first class.
Ratin
HGM Classes Within a Delineated Wetland Bounda Riverine
Slo +Riverine De ressional
Slo + De ressional Lake-frin e
Slo e+Lake- in a Depressional
De ressional+ Riverine along stream within bounds Depressional
De ressional+Lake-frin-e Treat as ESTUARINE under wetlands with special
Salt Water Tidal Fringe and any other class of characteristics
freshwater wetland to our wetland,or you have more than 2 HGM classes
If you are unable still to determine which of the above criteria apply p y Y
within a wetland boundary,classify the wetland as Depressional for the rating.
Points
D Depressional and Flat Wetlands
WATER QUALITY FUNCTIONSt`a'to imp foi water qua ty't►I(se to improve
rove water unit -
D 1 Does the wetland have the RRM
D 1.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland: ...points=3 1
• Wetland is a depression with no surface water ouclonstricted,outlet................................ points= 1
Wetland has an intermittently flowlna or highly
• Wetland has an unconstricted surface outlet.................................................................. ......
Dints= 1
•
• Wetland is flat and has no obvious outlet and/or outlet is a ditch............................rsfd .............
4
D 1.2 The soil 2 inches below the surface-clay,organic,or s NO anoxico(ntdr Den sulfide or rotten eggs).
YES oints=4
D 13 Characteristics of persistent vegetation(emergent,shrub,and/or forest class): 5
>=95%of area............................ points—5
Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation points=3
•. Wetland has persistent,ungrazed vegetation>_ `/of area............................................ —
. Wetland has persistent,ung[a ed veed getation< 1/10 of area.a...............................................pDints=0
. Wetland has ersistent,un is D l.4 Characteristics f seasonal po sometime during the years Dohn o count the areaa h that a man nd) rat
least 2 months, 4
ponded. Estimate area as the overage condition 5 out of 1�years. NOTE: See text or indicators of
t inundation. points=4
seasonal and permanen
Area seasonally pond is> 1/2 total area of wetland.................... points=2
•. Area seasonally ponded Is> U4 total area of wetland.......................................
...................... Dints=0
............................
14
• Area seasonally onded is< 1/4 total area of wetland ,add the points in the boxes above
Total for D I
D 2 Does the wetland have the opportunity to improve water quality?(see p- 44) into
Answer YES iat wou d otherwise reduce water,there are qualityti Istrreams,lakes or grow dwater downgrn groundwater or surface water ad ent
the wetland that ollutants.
from the wetland? Note which of the following conditions provide the sources of pollutants.
_ 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 Multiplier
fields,roads,or clear-cut logging
_ olf courses are within
Residential,urban areas,g 150 ft.of wetland
_ Wetland is fed by groundwater high in phosphorus or nitrogen 2
Other NO multiplier is l
YES multiplier is 2 28
TOTAL—Water uali Functions at wetl n functions to
♦ Multi t the score from D 1 by D2;then add score to table on . 1
HYDROLOGIC FUNCTIONS—indicators ace flooding and eros on?(see po46)uce n and stream de radation.
D 3 Does the wetland have the potential to red
D 3.1 Characteristics of surface water flows out of the wetland: -
points=4• 0
Wetland has no surface water outlet............. ........points=2
Wetland has an intermittently flowing,or highly constricted,outlet points= 1
• Wetland is flat and has no obvious outlet and/or outlet is a small ditch.... Dints=0
• Wetland has an unconstricted surface outlet.....................••........--
..................... ...
•
POI
—7
D 3.2 Depth a storage during wet periods. Estimate the height of ponding above the bottom of the out et
. Marks of ponding are 3 ft.or more above the surface y,v........................... s # ..�.. 5
. The wetland is a"hedwate� aud�'.,: xa .a-..,. t .� �, , ............. =3
Marks are at least 0.5 ft.to<2 ft.from surface ................ .. . ...
Dints=0
Wetland is flat but has small depressions on the surface that trap water points s=
. Marks of ondin less than 0.55 ft............
ate•••
D 3.3 Contribution of the to s to the area of there wetland -+tself.e the ratio of upstream basin contributing
surface watepoints r 5
. The area of the basin is less than 10 times the are of wetland............................ Points=
. The area of the basin is 10 to too basin is more thant100 times the area of the wetland....................................points=0
. The area of the ................................. Dints= 5
Wetland is in the FLATS class(basin=the wetland,b definition 1 the points in the boxes above 10
Total for D 3
D 4 Does the wetland have the opporttuoill to reduce flooding and erosion? (see p. 49)
Answer YES if the wetland is in a location in the watershed
where the flood
ces frostoram flooding oe,of retr excessivte and/or
velocity,it provides helps protect downstream property aquaticsuch
erosive flows. al eNreservOolitetc OR you estihe water mate that more than 90%of the nto the wetland is controlled water in wetland is fr000dm
tide gate,flap
groundwater. Note reservoir
of the following indicators of opportunity apply.
X Wetland is in a headwater of a river or stream that has flooding problems. Multiplier
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 2
stream that has flooding problems
Other Np multiplier is 1
YE8 multiplier is 2 20
♦ Multi I the score from D3 b D4; th
TOTAL—H drolo is Functions
add score to table on . I
Pei>a►ts
73C-
iforeE
etlantLs of all MGM classe$.
UONS—Indicators that wetland functions to provide important habitat.
tlave the potential to providehabitat for many species?
ttructure (see P. 73):cpes of vegetation classes present(as defined by Cowardin) if the class covers more t an
area of the wetland or 1 4 acre.
ic Bedgent plants/shrub(areas where shrubs have>30%cover)
ted(areas where trees have> 30%cover)ted areas have 3 out o es thatta(can P If you have y shrubs,herbaceous,moss/ground-cover
Add the number of vegetation typ q 3 types..-Points=2
4 types or more....points=4 1 type_„.points=0
2 types.................points= 1
Hydroneriods(see p.74):
Check the types of water regimes(hydroperiods)present within the wetland. The water regime has to
cover more than 10%of the wetland or 114 acre to count(see text for descriptions of hydroperiods).
X Permanently flooded or inundated 4 or more types present......points=3 1
X Seasonally flooded or inundated 3 types present...................points=2
_ Occasionally flooded or inundated 2 types present...................points= 1
Saturated only
Permanently flowing stream or river in,or adjacent to,la the wetland
—_ Seasonally flowing stream in,or adjacent to,the wetland
_ Lake-fringe wetland..................=2 points
_ Freshwater tidal wetland..........=2 points
H 1.3 Richness of Plant Species(see p. 76):
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. Don Ifinclude
counted: > 19 oil, reed spec es..ca rygrass'Pants=2 2
loosestrife, Canadian Thistle. y 5— 19 species...................points= I
<5 species........................points=0
List species below(optional):
rersion of Habitats(see p_ 77):
d from the diagrams below whether interspersion between types of vegetation(described in
or vegetation types and unvegetated areas(can include open water or mudflats)is high,medium,
r none.
'_gone=0 points Low= 1 point Moderate=2 points
1
s $
arias braided channels]
�k )`i p
1Hg.h =3 points
Note: If you have 4 or more vegetation types or 3 vegetation types and open water,the rating is always
"hi h"
H 1.5 sMial Habitat Features(see p. 78)P oint
Check the habitat features that are resent in the n etland. The number of checks is the number of p
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 4
Undercut banks are present for at least 6.6 ft. (2m)and/or overhanging vegetation extends at(east
3.3 ft.(1 m)over a stream for at least 33 ft.(I Om)
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
X 1/4 acre of
or seasonally�in ied ndated(structturestfor eggon or -laying by amphibians)branches are ent in areas that
�( Invasive plants cover less than 25%of the wetland area in each stratum of plants
idd the voinis in the column above 9
R 1 TOTAL Score—potential for providing habitat
H2
Does the wetland have the oaaortuai_ to provide habitat for many species'
H 2.1 Buffers(see P. 80'.
Choose the description that best represents condition of buffer of�retland. The highest scoring criterron
applies to the wetland is to be used in the rating. See text for definition of"undisturbed"-
that
I (330 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas,or open water
>95%of circumference. No developed areas within undisturbed part of buffer points=5
(relatively undisturbed also means no grazing ........•-- areas,or open water
X loom(330 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky points=4
>50%circumference....................... .
50m(170 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas,or open water points=4
>95%circumference.........................d-ve .. - - --- ......
loom(330 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas,or open water points=3 4
>25%circumference..............stu-r-----••-ege------ ..
...........................................
50m(170 ft)of relatively undisturbed vegetated areas,rocky areas,or open water......................................points=3
for>50%circumference._.--••••••••--•-••-•••--•••-••-'•"•"""'•'"
..........
If buffer does not meet any of the three criteria above:
_ No paved areas(except paved trails)or buildings within 25m(80 ft}of wetland> points=2
95%circumference. Light to moderate grazing or lawns are OK.................
_ No paved areas of buildings within 50m of wetland for>50%circumference. points=2
Light to moderate grazing or lawns are OK............................•..•••••. points=1
_ Heavy grazing in buffer..........................
................................
_ Vegetated buffers are<2m wide(6.6 ft)for more than 95%circumference points=0
(e.g.tilled fields,paving,basalt bedrock extend to edge of wetland)............. ............. orn_I
_ Buffer does not meet any of the criteria above..
..........
....
d unbroken
H 2.2 Corridors and Connections(see p. 82)
H 2.2.1 Is the wetland part i l a relativel st 150 ft y undisturbed
turbedhas at len a 30%covergof sh etated ubs,fo rest orr nativeriparian
or upland)that
undisturbed prairie,that connects to estuaries,other wetlands or undisturbed uplands that are a
least 250 acres in size? (Dams in riparian corridors, heavily used gravel roads,paved roads,
are considered breaks in the corridor). NO=go to H 2.2.2
YES=4 points(go to H 2.3
H.2.2.2 Is the wetlandthat s at least SO of a rftel relatively
e. as aeleast3 0%b over ofroken fish rubs or forest,rridor and connects toeither riparian 4
or upland)
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 corridors as ino the
equestion above?
YES=2 points(go to H 2.3)
H.2.2.3 Is the wetland:
• Within 5 mi(8km)of a brackish or salt water estuary OR YES= i Point
. Within 3 miles of a large field or pasture(>40 acres)OR
. Within 1 mile of a lake greater than 20 acres? NO=0 points
a
F W see 83
H 2.3 Near or adjacent to other riori habitats listed b WD ( P of the wetland?
within 330 ft.(
Which of the following
ig Priority
at ailed descrip are tion of these priority habitats.)
X Riparian: The area adjacent to aquatic systems with flowing water that containselements of both
aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems which mutuall uence than each
0. ha other.acres)
Aspen Stands: Pure or mixed stands of aspen greater
_ Cliffs: Greater than 7.6m(25 ft)high and occurring below 5000 ft.
Oldgrowth forests: iitth occasional small openings,with ttleast 20 trees hld growth wet of Cascade Crest) Sans of at leasta(8 treeslac e)forming
a
multti-layered canopy w
(32 in)dbh or>200 years of age. e diameters
X Mature forests: atan swithnumbers of snags,ag
less quantity of large downed materialeding 53cm(21 in)dbh.crown cover is
Y e
less than 100%.
200 years old west of the Cascade Crest.
decadence,generally less than that found in ar gas(as hindicated_ by dominant of native plants)where greases
_ Prairies: Relatively
and/or fobbs form the natural climax plant community.
Talus: llomogenal uandesitef an
be rock bble sedimentary rockging in y nc average
riprap slides and mine tailings. May
composed of basalt,
be associated with cliffs. 4
Caves: A naturally koccurring r ds stands recess.v er oak or oak/coniferm of eassociations wherre canopy
_ Oregon white Oa
coverage of the oak component of the stand is 25%.
dor connecting
_ Urban Natural Open Space: A priority species resides within or is adjacent to the open space and
ce
uses it for breeding and/
or regular
g ly feeding;
those that ouldtotherwise he open be isolatefunctiod;and/or hs as a enopc space is an
other priority habitats, p
isolated remnant of natural habitat larger than 4 ha(10 acres)and is surrounded by urban
development. er tidal
X Estuary/Estuary-like:partly a obstructed or sporadicc access to the open abitats and adjacent tidal eoceans and in which ocean
se
by land but with open,P Y
water is at least occasionally diluted by freshwater runoff iO aAlong somerlow-energy
periodically increased above that of the open ocean by.
coastlines there is appreciable dilution s sea water. Estuarine
ethhe extends upstream
average annual low flows
to where ocean-derived salts in
less than 0.5 pp g
Includes both estuaries and lagoons.
_ : Shorelines include the intertidal and subtidal zones of beaches,an
Marine/Estuarine Shorelines
may also include the backshore and adjacent components of the terrestrial landscape(e cliffs.
d
snags, mature trees,dunes,meadows)that and/rock/log recruitment nutrientnportant to shoreline associated ontribution'lerlosion d
are iin
that contribute to shoreline function(e.g.,
control).
If wetland has 3 or more priority habitats.=4 points If wetland has I priority habit...=10 point
3 points No
R
etland has 2 rior a the one description of the landscapeharound the wetland that best fits
H 2.4 Wandscape: Choose (seep. 85)
the
ctions
een
hem
. e at (lighttgrazi g between wetlandlands within 1/2 mile, s OK,asniselake horevwith t some
ly undisturbed
,but connections should NOT be bisected by paved roads,fill,fields,or other points=5
............................................0...
ment...................... 3
.................points=5
. tland is Lake-fringe on a lake with little disturbance and there are 3 other a e- nnge
s within 1/2 mile..............
. . . ..........
......points=3
. re t least 3 other wetlands within 1/2 mile,BUT the connections between them are
dstured................. .
.............................................................
.....................................................................
. The wetland fringe on a lake with disturbance and there are 3 other lake-fringe wetlands points=3
within 1/2 mile................ ...................points=2
.................
. There is at least 1 wetland within 1/2 mile................... _points=0
Add the scores in the columns above
. There are no wetlands within 1/2 mile..................... 7
H 2 TOTAL Score—opportunity for providing habitat 24
♦ Total Score for Habitat Functions Add the points for H 1 and H 2;then record the result on p 1
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.87)
Does the wetland meet the following criteria for Estuarine wetlands?
_ The dominant water regime is tidal,
Vegetated,and
_ With a salinity greater than 0.5 ppt. NO X
YES =Go to SC 1.1 al Park,National Sc
1.1 is the wetland Park or NationEducatal Wildlife
l life Refu Environmental,NaorScientific Reserve designated under WAC 332ary Reserve,Natural rea Cat. l
Preserve,State
30-151? NO=go to SC 1.?
YES =Category I
SC 1.2 Is the wetland at least 1 acre in size and meets at leastwo f the Category o living conditions? Cat.IYES =Category I
_ The wetland is relatively undisturbed(has no diking,ditching,filling,cultivation, grazing,
only species Cat.II
less than to%cover of non-native plant species. If the non-native Sparring spp,- Y P
that cover more than ]0%of the wetland,then the wetland should be given a dual rating(I!II).
The
with nati e species es would be a Category 1 De rated a Category 11 while the relat
o not however,excluivede the area of Sundisturbed partina in
er rsh Dual
determining the size threshold of 1 acre. g
�{ At least 3!4 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft.buffer of shrub,forest,or un-graze Rating
1/11
or tin-mowed grassland
X or The
wetland has n has at least of the following features: tidal channels,depressions with open water,
s.
C2 Natural Heritage R'etlands (see p. 8M
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
t W HWNHP/DNR web site
S/T/R information from Appendix D and o to SC 2.2 NO
YES Contact WNHP/DNR(see p. gg) g
SC 2.2 Has DNR identified the wetland as a high quality undisturbed wetland or as a site with state threatened Cat I
or endangered plant species? NO X
YES =Category 1
C3 Boas(see p. 88)
Does the wetland(or part of the wetland)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 function.
I. Does the wetland have organic soil horizons(i.e.layers of organic soil),either peat s or mucks,that
compose l6 inches or more of the first 32 inches of soil profile? (See o Appendix
dix B for a field key to
identify organic soils)? YES=go to question 3 NO=g 9
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
pond? YES=go to question 3 no
t a bob for purpose of rating-
3. Does the wetland 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 offospee species
in to Table 3)?
YES=Is a bog for purpose of rating
on
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 hold 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 wetland 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%covelrraa a of the s not aotal for purpose of rating er)? Cat.1
YES=Category I
C4 Forested Wetlands(see P. 96) meet one of these
Does the wetland have at least 1 acrebitats?re/f youst tanswe yes you will rstill�need to rate Ik wetland is
and Wildlife's forests as priority h
forming a
based on its function.
Old-growth forests: (west th occas onal small open openings;with at Stands of at least 8 tlrees/acre(20 tecies rees/hectare)
multi-layered canopy
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 en have a smaller�dbhubecause their growth rates are often slower is di DF W treesred year old
in wetlands will often
criterion is and"OR"so old-growth forests do not necessarily have to have trees of this diameter.
Mature forests: (westd amet r (dbh)a ceeding Standscade Crest) hes(5 where 3 cm);crown r wn covest trees er may be ass than
OR have an average
1 quantity of large downed material is generally
00%;decay,decadence,numbers of snags,and Cat.I
less than that found in old-growth. NO_X
YES=Category I
CS wetlands in Coastal Lagoons(see p. 92)
Does the wetland meet all of the following criteria of a wetland r a coastal lagoon?
The wetland lies in a depressional
adjacent gravel toban in shinglearine ,orr,less freques that is ntly,roy or crkl ally separated0.5
from marine waters by sand
The lagoon in which the weaert'and is locatedn at leastortionontaof the lagoon (needs to be ins surface water that is (measured near�the
ppt)during most of they
bottom.) NO X not a wetland in a coastal lagoon
YE8=Go to SCSI
SC 5.1 Does the wetland meet all of the following three conditions? fillin cultivation,grazing)and has
The wetland is relatively undisturbed(has no diking,ditching, g�
less than 20%cover of invasive plant species(see list of invasive species on p•74) Cat.I
_ At least 314 of the landward edge of the wetland has a 100 ft.buffer of shrub,forest,or un-grazed
or un-mowed grassland. Cat.II
The wetland is larger than I/10 acre(4350 square ft.)
YES=Category I NO =Category 11.
C6 Interdunal Wetlands (see p. 94) of Upland Ownership or
Is the wetland west of the 1889 line(also called the Western Boundary P
WBUO)? NO }{ not an interdunal wetland for rating
YES=Go to SC6.1
if you answer yes you will still need to rate tetlynd based on its functions.
In practical terms that means the following geographic
. Long Beach Peninsula--lands west of SR 103
. Grayland-Westport--lands west of SR 105
. Ocean Shores —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? Cat.II
NO =go to SC6.2
YES=Category lI
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 I acre. Cat. III
YES=Category Ill
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
7.01.070 WETLANDS
The purpose of this section is to avoid,or in appropriate circumstances, minimize, rectify, reduce or compensate
for impacts arising from land development and other activities affecting wetlands; to maintain and enhance the
biological and physical functions and values of wetlands with respect to wate quality
maintenance;
aim n on, education and
and floodwater storage and conveyance; fish and wildlife habitat;primary productivity,
historic and cultural prese i terms age,
preservation. hen
tee avoiding
impacts
is
son valua
not
re ble, mitigation shall be implemented to
achieve a no net loss of wetlands
A. CLASSIFICATION
The following shall be classified as wetland areas:
Areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to
support,and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for
life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes,bogs and similar areas.
However,wetlands may include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland areas
created to mitigate conversion of wetlands, if permitted by the county.
B. DESIGNATIONS
The following lands,shorelands and waters of Mason County are hereby designated under RCW
36.70A.060 and RCW 36.70A.170,as critical areas requiring immediate protection from incompatible land
uses: Wetlands and their buffer as specified by Section 17.01.070.E.
In making a determination regarding a wetland, Washington State Wetland Identification and Delineation
serve as the
Manual( if an area#96-94), or as amended hereafter,
hyd ophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and/orcal resource guide on
wetland hydrology.
determining
1. The following are designated as regulated wetlands under this Chapter:
a, All areas described in Section 17.01.070.A.;
b. Ponds less than twenty acres;
c_ Wetlands created as mitigation,and those modified for approved land use activities,
including their submerged aquatic beds_
2. The following are designated as non-regulated wetlands:
Artificial man made wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland sites, including, but not
limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches,grass-lined swales, canals, detention facilities,
enities or those
wastewater 1 treatment0,that were unintentionales,farm lls, and ly created as landscape r result of the construction wetlands
road, ted
treet
after July ,
or highway.
a. Exempt wetlands that are isolated and less than 1,000 square feet in area where it has
been shown by the applicant that they are not associated with a riparian corridor,they are not part
of a wetland mosaic and do not contain habitat identified as essential for local populations of
priority species identified by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
b. No measures to avoid impacts for Category III and IV wetlands between 1,000 and 4,000
square feet are required if they meet all the following criteria:
(1) Wetland is not associated with a riparian corridor,and
(2) Wetland is not part of a wetland mosaic,and
(3) Wetland does not score 20 points or greater for habitat in the 2004 Western Washington
Rating System,and
(4) Wetland does not contain habitat identified as essential for local populations of priority
species identified by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Mason County Resource Ordinance
21 Revised December 27,2006
(1) The harvesting or normal maintenance of vegetation in a manner that is not
injurious to the natural reproduction of such vegetation;
(2) The removal or eradication of noxious weeds so designated in Chapter 17.10
RCW or other exotic, nuisance plants;
(3) Site investigative work necessary for land use application submittals such as
surveys, soil logs and percolation tests;
(4) The construction or trails which shall be unpaved when located in the buffers and
are not intended for motorized use, and
elevated when located in wetlands,which
which are no wider than three(3)feet, unless additional width is necessary for
safety along a precipice, steep hillside, or other hazardous area. See section
17.01.070.E.6.c.for additional details on regulated (but permitted)trail activity.
(5) Emergency services or repairs for health and welfare; or
(6) Activities of a mosquito control district.
(7) The removal of a danger tree, provided that such removal is mitigated by planting
in the vicinity of the removed tree a total of six(6)new trees, each of a minimum
three(3)feet in height and each of the same species or native species as the
removed tree. If the replacement tree planting is judged to be unnecessary to
replace the canopy structure of a vegetation area,the Director may request the
applicant leave or place the danger tree within the vegetation area as habitat.
g. Activities that result in a significant change of water temperature,a significant change of
physical or chemical characteristics of wetland's water sources, including quantity,or the
introduction of pollutants.
2. Activities Permitted without a Mason Environmental Permit
The following uses shall be allowed,in addition to those defined in General Exemptions (see
Section 17.01.130),within a wetland or wetland buffer to the extent that they are not prohibited by
the Shorelines Management ACT of 1971 (Chapter 90.58 RCW), Federal Water Pollution Control
Act(Clean Water ACT),State Water Pollution Control Act(Chapter 90.48 RCW), State Hydraulic
Code(RCW 75.20.100-.140), Forest Practices Act(Chapter 76.09 RCW and Chapter 222-16
WAC)or any other applicable ordinance or law and provided they are conducted using best
management practices,except where such activities result in the conversion of a regulated
wetland or wetland buffer to a use to which it was not previously subjected and provided further
that forest practices and conversions from forest land shall be governed by Chapter 76.09 RCW
and its rules:
servation of s
a. Conservation or preoil,water,vegetation,fish,shellfish, and other wildlife;
t do not have a significant adverse impact on the
b. Outdoor recreational activities tha
wetland and its related buffer;
anner that is not injurious to natural reproduction of
C. The harvesting of wild crops in a m
such crops and provided the harvesting does not require tilling of soil, planting of crops,or
alteration of the wetland by changing existing topography,water conditions or water
resources;
d. Existing and ongoing agricultural activities, including farming,horticulture, aquacu ture,
irrigation, ranching or grazing of animals. Activities on areas lying fallow as part of a
conventional rotational cycle are part of an ongoing operation. Activities which bring an
area into agricultural use are not part of an ongoing operation. An operation ceases to be
ongoing when the area in which it was conducted has been converted to another use or
has lain idle for more than five years unless that idle land is registered in a federal or state
soils conservation program. Forest practices are not included in this definition.
e. The maintenance (but not construction)of drainage ditches;
f. Education, scientific research, and use of nature trails;
g. Site investigative work necessary for land use application submittals such as surveys, soil
logs, percolation tests and other related activities. In every case,wetland impacts shall be
minimized and disturbed areas shall be immediately restored; and
h. The following uses are allowed within wetlands and/or wetland buffer, provided that any
required permits or approvals are obtained and further provided that wetland impacts are
minimized and that disturbed areas are immediately restored:
(1) Normal maintenance, repair, or operation of existing serviceable structures,
Mason County Resource Ordinance
23 Revised Decemt-er 27,2006
The width of the wetland buffer shall be determined by the following process:
1} The wetland is categorized according to wetland ratings system category as shown in
Table 17.01.070 A;
of different land uses far intensity of impacts to
2) Table 17.01.070 B rates examples
wetlands.
based on the habitat value scored by the wetland
3) The width of the buffer is determined
on the wetland rating system and on the land use intensity of the proposed use as-shown in
Tables 17.01.070 C,D, E,or F.
Table 17.01.070.B. Ratings of impact from land uses
...........
R
Commercial, Urban, Industrial, Institutional, Retail Sales, Residential
High subdivisions with more than 1 uniVacre,New agriculture(high-intensity
processing such as dairies, nurseries and green houses, raising and
harvesting crops requiring annual tilling,raising and maintaining
animals), New transportation corridors, High intensity recreation (golf
courses, ball fields), hobby farms.
Single-family residential lots,residential subdivisions with 1 unittacre or
Moderate less, Moderate4ntensity Open Space (parks), New agriculture
(moderate-intensity such as orchards and hay fields), Transportation
enhancement projects.
Low Forestry,Open space(low-intensity such as passive recreation and
natural resources preservation, minor transportation improvements).
Table 17.01.070 C: Width of buffer re uired to protect CategorV IV wetlands.
Score for functions < 30 points Low-25 feet
Moderate-40 feet
High -50 feet
Mason County Resource Ordinance 25 Revised December 27 2006
Table 17.01.070 F: Width of Buffers required to rotect Cate o I wetlands.YILeS�
Natural Heritage Wetlands and Bogs Low-125 feet
Moderate- 190 feet
High-250 feet
Forested Buffer size to be based on score for habitat
functions or water quality functions see below.
Estuarine and Wetlands in Coastal Lagoons Low-100 feet
Moderate-200 feet
High-250 feet
High level of function for habitat Low-150 feet
(score for habitat is 29-36 pts.)
Moderate-225 feet
Hi h-250 feet
Moderate level of function for habitat Low-75 feet
(score for habitat is 20-28 pts.) Moderate- 110 feet
Hi h-200 feet
High level of function for water quality Low 50 feet
improvement (WQI) (score is 24-32)
and low for habitat(score for habitat is less than Moderate-75 feet
20 points)
High-100 feet
Category I wetlands not meeting any of the Low 50 feet
above criteria
Moderate-75 feet
High-100 feet
b. Increased Wetland Buffer Width
The Administrator shall require increased standard buffer widths or may require other conditions
be placed on the development on a case-by-case basis when necessary to protect wetland
functions and values based on local conditions. This determination shall be supported by
appropriate documentation showing that it is reasonably related to protection of the functions and
values of the regulated wetland. Such determination shall be attached as a permit condition and
shall demonstrate that:
a) A larger buffer is necessary to maintain viable populations or critical habitat of threatened or
endangered species living within the subject wetland(s) boundaries; or
b) The adjacent land is susceptible to severe erosion and erosion control measures
otherwise required will not effectively prevent adverse wetland impacts; or
c) There are other nearby wetlands or critical areas and adjustments to the buffers would
prevent fragmentation of the habitat or is otherwise necessary to preserve the structure,
function and value of the wetland, or
getation or invasive or non-native d) The er is poorly vegetated due to lack of ve
being the dofminannt cover. Conditions would include enhancement of the area, a larger buffer,
9
or both.
Mason County F,eseurce Ordinance
Z' Revised Oecernber 27,2006
TABLE X Examples of measures to reduce impacts to wetlands.
Lights : ' Parking lets • Direct lights away from wetland
V4rai�ehr�uses
Maizufacturing
Residential
Noise • Manufacturing s Locate activity that gme-ates noise away
from wetland
r Residential
P icsts •Route.all ue�c,untreated runoff away from
Toxic tunoff`� • ar ig r.etland while ensuring wetland:is not
s Roads dewatered
• Manufacturing *Establish coy-tents limiting use of
• Residential areas pesticides within 150 ft oflretland
• kppikation of agricultural • Apple integrated pelt Managenieiit
pesticides
* Landscaping
• Parking lots •Retrort stern. ater detention and treatment
StQrun�a# r for roads and existing adjacent
Innoff • Rom& development
s Manufacturing •Present channelizej now from lawns that
• Residential areas directly enters the buffer
* Commercial
* Landscaping
Change in • impermeable surfaces • infiltrate or treat,,detain,and disperse into
buffer new rrinofffrom imperious
water-regime * Lawns- surfaces and new lawns
• Tilling
Pets and * Residential areas *Use privacy fencing;plant dense vegetation
to delineate buffer edge and to discourage
human disturbance using vegetation appropriate
disturbance for the eccregion;place wetland and its
buffer in a separate tract
Bust
• Tilled fields . Use best management practices to control
dust.
These examples are not necessarily adequate for minimizing toxic runoff if tlu•eatened or endangered
species are present at the site-
mason County Resource Ordnance
29 Revised f�ecemter 27,2006
All Category IV 1.5:1
3:1 1:1 R/C and 2:1 E 6:1
----------— -
All Category 111 2:1
4:1 1:1 R/C and 2:1 E 8:1
4:1 rehabilitation of Case-b case
Category II Case-by-case an estuarine Case-by-case Y-
Estuarine wetland
All other 3:1 8:1 1:1 R/C and 4:1 E 12:1
Category II
Category 1 6:1 12A 1:1 R/C and 10:1 E 24:1
Forested
Category 1 4:1 8:1 1:1 R/C and 6:1 E 16:1
other
Category 1 6:1 rehabilitation of Case-by-case
Natural Heritage Case-by-case a Natural Heritageeritage
Case-by-case Y-
site
Category 1 6:1 rehabilitation of Case-by-case Case-by-case
Coastal Case-by-case a coastal lagoon
Lagoon
Category I 6:1 rehabilitation of Case-by-case Case-by-case
Cate
9 Case-by-case a bog
Bog
6:1 rehabilitation of Case-by-case
Category I Case-by-case an estuarine Case-by-case Y-
Estuarine wetland
t Reaised December 27,2006
Mason County Resource Ordinance
•
•that are important in maintaining biodiversity. nale es in each category.As a
erent
The following description summarizes
note that wetlands of all ucdat going ries have evaluabtland lefunctions in the landscape,
general principle,it is important
and all are worthy of inclusion in programs for wetland protection.
3.1 CATEGORY t
nt a unique or rare wetland type; or 2)are more sensitive to
Category wetlands are those that 1)represe
ndisturbed and contain ecological attributes that are
are relatively u
disturbance than most wetlands;or 3) provide a high level of functions.We cannot afford the risk of
impossible to replace within tl human lifetime;their
4)P e of the wetlands in the region. of the 122 wetlands
degradation to these wetlands because their functions and values are too difficult to replace. Generralt n thethes
any 9 I. in western Washington wetlands are not common and make up a small percentage
used to field test the current ratingsystem go only 24 (20%)were rated as a Category
following types of wetly I wetlands
Estuarine Wetlands- Relatively and
ovidunique estuarine natural wetlands esourceser ththataare considan I acre eri Category
e valuable
ocielty derives
because they are relatively rare and p
society.These wetlands need a high level of protection ri maintain their functions anfunctions cannot be
reshwater
from
them. Furthermore,the questions used to characterize
developed to date date to characterizel how well estuarine
used for estuarine wetlands_ No rapid methods have
wetlands function.
the most highly productive and complex
Estuaries, the areas where freshwater and salt water mix, are among organic matter are exchanged between
ecosystems where tremendous quantities of sediments, nutrients and
re the most visible. However,there is also a hugaee found
terrestrial, freshwater and marine communities.This availability of resources benefits an enormousbrates variety o
variety
to algae and inverte
plants and animals. Fish, shellfish and birds and P many kinds of diatoms, alg
of other life forms n an estuarine wetland:for example,
there. Washington State
as environmental value
Estuarine systems have substantial economic value as
thelbrunt of development pressures es through n song selected
estuaries have been modified to some degree, beaustrial ring over-harvest
et Sound estuaries
drainage, port development and disposa►of natural urban and
nfunc indg of estuaarine systems. Many st 9 certain
economic species has also modified the
Y to 99%of some
such as the Duwamish, Puyallup,Snohomish
been andosSkagit have been extensive) modified. p
estuarine wetland areas in the statethe state department of Fish
Estuaries, of which estuarine wetlands are a part,area"priority habitat"as defined by
ment corridors, limited availability, and high vulnerability to
important fish and wildlife seasonal rang
d Wildlife. Estuaries have a high fish and wildlife density and species
richness, important breeding habitat,
an es and move
Department of Fish and Wildlife(WDFW),
alteration of their habitat(Washington State
http/hvww wa gov/wdfw(hab/ph_slist.htm,accessed October 15,2003).
ed wetlands, or wetlands that support State listed threatened or
Natural Herita a Wetlands—Wetlands that are dentified by scientists of the Washington Natural Heritage
Program/DNR as high quality, relatWetland ly distur
endangered plants are Category
ualit ton. By, relatively undisturbed examples of wetlands are level of protection te torn
ncomrnOrthe Washinuand stgurbed character ofng
High q Y I we are trying to provide a h g
these wetlands as Category ,
thes
e remaining high quality wetlands. Examples of undisturbed wetlands help us to understand natural wetland
processes.
s that might otherwise not
urthermore,the presence of rare plants in a wetland ition care also sensitive es unique tto disturbance, particularly ba tivities
F stem. Rare plant popula
identified through the rating sy ecies.
that result in the spread of invasive sp
The Washington Natural Heritage Program of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR)has identified
3; Revised Deeernber 27,200E
Mason County Resource Ordinance
Not all wetlands function equally well, especially across the suite of functions performed. The field questionnaire
was developed to provide a method by which wetlands can be categorized based on their relative performance of
different functions. Wetlands scoring 70
points or more were judged to have the highest levels of function.Wetlands that provide high levels of all three
types of functions(improving water quality, hydrologic functions,and habitat)are also relatively rare. Of the 122
wetlands used to calibrate the rating system in western Washington, only 18(15%)scored 70 points or higher
based on their functions.
The questionnaire on wetland functions is based on the six-year effort to develop detailed methods for assessing
wetland functions both in eastern and western Washington. These methods currently represent the"best available
science"in rapid assessments of wetland functions.
3.2 CATEGORY 11
Category 11 wetlands are difficult, though not impossible, to replace, and provide high levels of some functions.
These wetlands occur more commonly than Category I wetlands, but still need a relatively high level of protection.
Category 11 wetlands in western Washington include:
Estuarine Wetlands-Any estuarine wetland smaller than an acre, or those that are disturbed and larger than 1
acre are category II wetlands.Although disturbed,these wetlands still provide unique natural resources that are
considered to be valuable to society. Furthermore,the questions used to characterize how well a wetland functions
cannot be used for estuarine wetlands.
Interdunal Wetlands- Interdunal wetlands greater than 1 acre are Category II because they provide critical
habitat in this ecosystem (Wiedemann 1984). This resource is important but constitutes only a small part of the
total dune system (Wiedemann 1984). No methods have been developed to characterize how well interdunal
wetlands function, so these wetlands cannot be rated by a score.
Interdunal wetlands form in the"deflation plains"and"swales"that are geomorphic features in areas of coastal
dunes. These dune forms are the result of the interaction between sand, wind, water and plants. The dune system
immediately behind the ocean beach (the primary dune system)is very dynamic and can change from storm to
storm (Wiedemann 1984). For the purpose of rating, any wetlands that are located to the west of the 1889 line
(western boundary of upland ownership)are considered to be interdunal.
Wetlands That Perform Functions Well-Wetlands scoring between 51-69 points (out of 100)on the questions
related to the functions present are Category 11 wetlands.Wetlands scoring 51-69 points were judged to perform
most functions relatively well, or performed one group of functions very well and the other two moderately well.
3.3 CATEGORY III
Category Ili wetlands are 1)wetlands with a moderate level of functions(scores between 30-50 points)and 2)
interdunal wetlands between 0.1 and 1 acre in size. Wetlands scoring between 30-50 points generally have been
disturbed in some ways, and are often less diverse or more isolated from other natural resources in the landscape
than Category 11 wetlands.
3.4 CATEGORY IV
Category IV wetlands have the lowest levels of functions (scores less than 30 points)and are often heavily
disturbed.These are wetlands that we should be able to replace, and in some cases be able to improve. However,
experience has shown that replacement cannot be guaranteed in any specific case. These wetlands may provide
some important functions, and also need to be protected.
Mason County Resource Ordinance 35 Revised Decernber 27. 2006