5300 GLENWOOD AVE 2017-01-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

The applicant is proposing to top or completely remove a total of thirty red alder located within Tract 998. The felled portion of the trees will be left intact and dropped in to the wetland and buffer to provide large woody debris and wildlife habitat. In addition to the tree trimming, to allow more light to reach the development, the applicant is proposing to clear 15,000 square feet of area located to the southwest of Units L, M, N, and O. The proposed actions will not substantially alter the wetland or associated buffer. Conclusion Since the proposed action will mimic natural processes and mitigation plantings will be provided, the proposed work will maintain the existing functions and values provided by the subject site. As a result, the direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts resultant from this project will be negligible. This project will have no effect on listed species or other species in the vicinity. FUNCTIONS AND VALUES ASSESSMENT Methodology The methodology for the following functions and values assessment is based on best professional judgment developed through past field analyses and interpretation. This assessment pertains specifically to this site, but is typical for assessments of similar systems common to western Washington. Functions and Values Components Wetlands and buffers in western Washington perform a variety of ecosystem functions. Included among the most important functions provided are stormwater control, floodflow attenuation, water quality improvement, fish and wildlife habitat, aesthetic value, recreational opportunities, and education. Assessments of these functions for the project site are provided below. Assessment — Existing Conditions The subject wetland and buffer currently provide a moderate level of functions for all assessed values. Because both are forested, they provide valuable habitat for a variety of birds and small mammals. The trees provide shade and a source of organic material for the wetland and stream, as well as erosion control, and water quality functions. The on-site sensitive areas are part of a large forested corridor associated with Glenwood Creek that extends north to Puget Sound as well as west to connect with the adjacent Narbeck Creek drainage corridor. Dominant trees on the site are comprised of a mixture of Douglas fir, western red cedar, and red alder. Many of the alder on the site are mature, and are likely near the end of their natural lives. Snags and large, downed wood provide important habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. The 15,000 square feet of steep slope and stream buffer that is located behind Units L, M, N, and O is an area that was graded during development of this site to stabilize the slope and accommodate the units. It does not appear that this area was replanted after it was graded. Currently this slope is dominated by two to three-year old, sapling red alder and patchy grasses. Given the degree of past disturbance and the proximity to the Villas at Glenwood Terrace � Habitat Assessment October 10, 2011 �� WRI # 11111