Ordinance 3457-15 - Laserfiche WebLink

2. If a development is proposed on or within a distance which could impact habitats of primary association, significant biological areas, and/or vegetative corridors linking watersheds, as described in this section, the applicant shall provide a habitat assessment. If the habitat assessment determines that the proposed development could potentially adversely impact a fish and wildlife habitat conservation area, the applicant shall provide a habitat management plan (HMP), prepared by a qualified expert for evaluation by the city, state and federal agencies. The HMP must address activities that can be taken to preserve, protect, or enhance the affected fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas. The HMP shall be based upon sound habitat management practices and be designed to achieve specific habitat objectives. If the habitat assessment finds that the proposed development could result in substantial elimination of or significant reduction in riparian corridors, existing connections between critical areas, or continuous vegetated corridors linking watersheds, the HMP must analyze alternatives and measures to maximize the maintenance of existing corridors. The city shall ask the appropriate resource agencies to review and comment on the development impacts and the provisions of the HMP. a. Distance for Habitats of Primary Association. i. Salmonids . When development is proposed on or within two hundred feet of a Type F stream, a habitat assessment shall be required. ii. Bald Eagles. When a development is proposed within eight hundred feet of an eagle nest, or within one-half mile of a nest if also within two hundred fifty feet of the shoreline, or within one-quarter mile of a communal roost, a habitat assessment meeting the requirements of this chapter shall be required. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, the habitat assessment shall address the criteria contained in WAC 232-12-292, the Washington State Bald Eagle Protection Rules. The director is authorized to promulgate an administrative rule identifying the required content for an integrated habitat assessment consistent with these requirements. iii. Other Species. If habitats of primary association are identified for other species, the director, after consulting with the Department of Fish and Wildlife, shall determine the appropriate distance from a designated fish and wildlife habitat conservation area which will require a habitat assessment or habitat management plan. b. Continuous Vegetative Corridors Linking Watersheds. If a development is proposed within an area that provides a continuous vegetative corridor linking watersheds, a habitat assessment is required. c. Significant Biological Areas. If a development is proposed within three hundred feet of a significant biological area, a habitat assessment is required. is hereby amended to read as follows: Additional fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas requirements. A. Definitions. 1. Habitats of primary association" means a critical component(s) of the habitats of federally or state -listed endangered, threatened, candidate, sensitive, and priority wildlife or plant species which, if altered, may reduce the likelihood that the species will maintain and reproduce over the long term. Habitats of primary association include, but are not 21