Resolution 7270 - Laserfiche WebLink

Executive Summary discharges to natural surface waters can cause erosion and other adverse physical effects on stream channels. Cumulative impacts over time, from many seemingly-insignificant small changes, lead to substantial degradation of surface water quality. Water quality issues can often be addressed by capturing and treating stormwater prior to discharging it to a surface waterbody. In areas that were developed before treatment of stormwater was common practice, adding water quality treatment facilities in the public right of way is an effective method of reducing pollutants in stormwater. Land use patterns have a significant effect on stream channel and riparian habitat. Increased urbanization increases the rate, volume, and frequency at which stormwater runoff reaches streams. These increases lead to erosion, channelization, and a decrease in pool and riffle habitat that is necessary for salmon and other species. Urban development often reduces or eliminates buffers of native vegetation surrounding streams, effectively narrowing the riparian corridor. Loss of native vegetation and large trees decreases shade, reduces large wood in stream habitat, and may decrease passive treatment of stormwater runoff discharged near streams. Development can also lead to fish barriers, blocking long segments of streams from fish access, and the removal or disconnection of riparian wetlands, limiting habitat for a variety of plants and animals. Habitat issues can be mitigated by resizing culverts, constructing in-stream habitat features, and reconnecting tracts of riparian and wetland habitat. As the urban footprint of Everett increases, and with it impervious surfaces and pollutants, stormwater issues are exacerbated. These issues are described in Section 1.1.A. Goals To address continued surface water issues, the City set five goals to guide the development of the SWCP. These goals are: • Maintain regulatory compliance; • Improve surface water quality; • Reduce water flow impacts to, or caused by, City facilities; • Maintain base flow; and • Provide improvements to aquatic and riparian habitat within the City. The goals and related objectives addressed by recommendations in the SWCP are described in Section 1.2. Programmatic and Technical Recommendations The SWCP presents recommendations for programmatic actions to help the City maintain compliance with applicable surface water regulations. Recommendations include: • Comply with the City's Municipal Stormwater Permit; • Prepare for anticipated issuance of a 2019 Municipal Stormwater Permit; • Increase efficiency of compliance activities; • Continue to participate in regional programs that aid compliance; and • Expand existing inspection programs. • Include climate change in design of future stormwater facilities. Recommendations are covered in Section 2.2. ES-2 City of Everett Surface Water Comprehensive Plan Volume I—Summary and Implementation Plan November 2017