LEVEL TWO HABITAT ASSESSMENT

Project: North Lexington Subdivision

Applicant: North Lexington PUD, LLC Jeff Rauth/Dan Hatfield 500 Grade Street Kelso, WA 98626 360-957-2040

Prepared By:

Date: July 31, 2018 Updated July 16, 2020 The information in this report was compiled to meet the requirements of the Cowlitz County Code (CCC) Section 19.15.130.C and prepared under the supervision and direction of the undersigned, a qualified professional following CCC 19.15.130.C.1.

Andrea W. Aberle, Sr. Biologist (20 years professional experience) AshEco Solutions, LLC P.O. Box 1122, Kelso, WA 98626 360.430.9830

SITE INFORMATION: Parcel No(s): 62244 (3.0 ac), 62245 (1.94 ac), 62213001 (10.97 ac) Acreage: 15.91 acres Local Jurisdiction: Cowlitz County, Washington Section/Township/Range: S 10, T8N, R2E, W.M. WRIA: 26 Site Address: 1941 Westside Highway Kelso, WA 98626 Legal Landowners: 62244 (North Lexington Apartments) 62245 (Sydion Homes, LLC) 62213001 (North Lexington PUD, LLC)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ...... 5 Project Description ...... 5 Project Location and Background Information ...... 5 METHODOLOGY ...... 5 MAP RESEARCH ...... 5 Soil Survey ...... 5 National Wetland Inventory ...... 6 Vegetation ...... 7 ON SITE CRITICAL AREAS ...... 7 Fish ...... 9 Birds ...... 10 Rare Plant and Lichen Species ...... 10 Critical Habitat ...... 12 POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF THE PROJECT ON LISTED SPECIES AND HABITAT ...... 12 Direct Effects ...... 12 Indirect Effects ...... 12 Temporary Effects ...... 13 PROTECTION PLAN ...... 13 Mitigation Goal ...... 13 Mitigation Strategy ...... 13 Mitigation Sequencing ...... 13 RHA Buffer Modification (of the Outer 50% of the RHA) ...... 13 RHA Impact (Within the Inner 50% of RHA)...... 14 RHA BUFFER ENHANCEMENT AREA ...... 15 Mitigation Schedule ...... 16 Phase 1 ...... 16 Phase 2 ...... 17 Phase 3 ...... 18 Phase 4 ...... 18 Phase 5 ...... 18 Specifications for Planting ...... 18 Maintenance Plan ...... 21 Monitoring Plan ...... 22

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Vegetation ...... 22 MITIGATION GOALS, OBJECTIVES & PERFORMANCE STANDARDS ...... 23 RHA Enhancement ...... 23 Maintenance ...... 24 Protection ...... 24 CONCLUSIONS ...... 25 DISCLAIMER ...... 25 REFERENCES ...... 26

TABLES Table 1. Critical Areas Summary………………………………………………………………………………………………………………8 Table 2. Endangered, Threatened, Candidate, Sensitive, and Priority Species that have Primary Association with Habitat on or Adjacent to the Project Area…………………………………………………………………..8 Table 3. RHA Modification, Impacts and Mitigation………………………………………………………………………………14 Table 4. RHA Planting Specifications……………………………………………………………………………………………………..20 Table 5. Performance Standards by Monitoring Year……………………………………………………………………………24

FIGURE SET Figure 1 – Site Location Map Figure 2 – Aerial Site Map and Topography Figure 3 - Soil Survey Map Figure 4 – National Wetlands Inventory Map Figure 5 – DNR Stream Type Map Figure 6 – SMP Designation Map Figure 7 – FEMA Flood Map Figure 8 – SalmonScape Map Figure 9 – Existing Conditions Figure 10 – Proposed Site Plan

APPENDICES Appendix A – Site Photos Appendix B-1 - National Heritage Program (NHP) Rare Plants Map Appendix B-2 – WDFW Priority Habitats Map

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INTRODUCTION Project Description AshEco Solutions, LLC (AES) was contracted to conduct this Level 2 Habitat Assessment and Buffer Mitigation Plan on behalf of the property owners (North Lexington PUD, LLC) to allow for the construction of a Planned Unit Development (PUD). The residential subdivision will consist of a total 47 single-family lots, including two multifamily lots that would each contain up to four units, and a multifamily apartment lot with three buildings each containing 24 apartments. AES conducted a site visit on January 23, 2018 to inventory site conditions for preparation of this habitat assessment as required under Cowlitz County Critical Areas Ordinance (CCCAO) Chapter 19.15.130; Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas (Cowlitz County 2016).

Project Location and Background Information The subject site is located at 1941 Westside Highway in Kelso, Washington. The site is located directly west of Westside Highway, south of Ponderosa Drive, and north of McCorkle Creek within Section 10, Township 8 North, Range 2 West of the Willamette Meridian, Figure 1. The residential property consists of Tax Parcels 62213001 (10.97 acres),62244 (3.0 acres, and 62245 (1.94 acres), for a total area of 15.91 acres. The subject site is surrounded to the north, west and south by single-family homes. McCorkle Creek flows east along the southern boundary of the subject site before entering a flood control structure located near the southeast corner of the subject site. The subject site is dominated by a generally flat open grass pasture, with the southern boundary sloping down to the creek. This south facing slope is also the northern stream bank of the creek and is flanked by a narrow band of trees and understory dominated by invasive species, Figure 2.

METHODOLOGY The methodology used for determining the location of the OHWM of McCorkle Creek followed the Washington State Department of Ecology’s (ECY) Determining the OHWM on Streams in Washington State (2010). The OHWM associated with McCorkle Creek was flagged by AES and professionally surveyed by Hampstur Corporation, Figure 9.

MAP RESEARCH Following CCC 19.15.130.C the potential critical areas within 300 feet of the subject site have been researched. Research included review of maps available online from various state and federal agencies. Below is a summary of the mapped potential critical areas and the AES findings.

Soil Survey Soils identified within the study area are mapped as (32) Clato silt loam, 0 to 3% slopes by the NRCS USDA Soil Conservation Service, Soil Survey of Cowlitz County, Washington, Figure 3. AES generally concurs with the mapped soil type onsite.

The Clato series consists of very deep, well drained soils on flood plains. These soils formed in mixed alluvium derived from sedimentary and basic igneous rock. Slopes range from 0 to 3 percent, and erosion hazard is slight.

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National Wetland Inventory The US Fish and Wildlife National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) does not map wetlands on the subject site, Figure 4. AES concurs with the NWI, as no wetlands were identified during the site reconnaissance.

DNR Mapped Waters The Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) maps a Type F (fish bearing) water along the southern boundary of the subject site, Figure 5. The Type F water is named McCorkle Creek. The water flows east to the Cowlitz River, but is totally blocked by a flood control structure located immediately southeast of the subject parcel along Westside Highway. The Cowlitz River is considered a Type S Water and located east of the site and east of West Side Highway. See site photos presented in Appendix A and Figure 5.

SalmonScape Mapping The jurisdictional waters located within 300 feet of the subject site include McCorkle Creek (directly south of the site) and the Cowlitz River (east of Westside Highway). SalmonScape maps a total blockage at the location of the flood control structure present just southeast of the site. This flood control structure is located near the eastern terminus of McCorkle Creek near the confluence of the Cowlitz River, Figure 8.

Shoreline and Designation The Shoreline Management Act (SMA) regulates streams where the mean annual flow is twenty cubic feet per second or less. The Cowlitz River is considered a Shoreline of the State, or Type S water. The Cowlitz River is located off site east of the subject parcel, and east of Westside Highway. No shorelines are located immediately adjacent to the project site.

Following RCW 90.58.030, shorelines are under the jurisdiction of the Shoreline Management Act and generally extend landward two hundred (200) feet in all directions a measured on a horizontal plane from the ordinary high water mark landward or the full extent of the associated floodway/floodplain and/or wetland, whichever is greater. However, the shoreline designation setback is governed by the CCSMP and is relative to the assigned shoreline designation for the project location and the proposed development use. The Cowlitz River shoreline located offsite and east from the project site is designated as Rural Conservancy, Figure 6. Like the shoreline jurisdiction, the shoreline designation set-back is off-set from the OHWM, 100-Year Floodplain, or the edge of an associated wetland boundary, CCC Chapter 19.20 Shoreline Management. The Cowlitz River east of the project site is designated as Rural Conservancy shoreline. The Cowlitz County SMP Table 7-2 Dimensional Standards specifies a 150-foot set-back for Rural Conservancy shorelines. The Shorelines Designation Map (Figure 6) further states that the “Rural Conservancy designation extends from the OHWM to the landward side of West Side Highway.” The project site is located over 150 feet from the shoreline and therefore meets the shoreline set-back for the Rural Conservancy designation area, Figures 9 and 10.

FEMA Flood Map The subject site is mapped by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Map Number 53015C0508G, Cowlitz County, Washington, Figure 7. The mapping indicates that the site is generally located outside of a “special flood hazard area subject to inundation by the 1% annual chance flood,” or essentially the 100-Year Floodplain. The mapped floodplain is essentially located within the OHWM of McCorkle Creek. The project does not propose encroachment waterward of the McCorkle Creek OHWM. Therefore, the proposed project is located outside of the mapped 100-Year Floodplain or Floodway.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS A single-family residence and several small outbuildings are in the southeast corner of the subject site. A paved residential driveway provides access to the site from Westside Highway. The site topography is generally flat, with a slope along the southern parcel boundary dropping approximately 10 feet in elevation to the adjacent McCorkle Creek. This slope north of McCorkle Creek consists of two rows of mature trees and some shrubs. The understory associated with this vegetated area is dominated by invasive species including Himalayan blackberry, English ivy, and English holly. The remaining central portion of the site is open and has been historically mowed and maintained as a grass field/pasture, (Figures 2 and 9). Photos representing the onsite conditions and vegetation presence are provided in Appendix A.

Vegetation The forested strip located along the southern parcel boundary is dominated by mature Western red cedar (Thuja plicata) and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziezii). It appears that these were originally installed in two rows along the creek years ago. The native understory vegetation is sparse and consists of sword fern (Polystichum munitum), snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus), and trailing blackberry (Rubus ursinus). The understory is generally dominated by Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), English ivy (Hedera helix), and English holly (Liex aquifolium). The English ivy appears to have already overtaken several mature trees, killing them and leaving vertical snags where a mature conifer once stood. Site photos documenting this vegetation are included in Appendix A.

ON SITE CRITICAL AREAS Riparian Habitat Area Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas are designated under CCC 19.15.130.A. All areas meeting one or more of the classifications in Table 19.15.130-A, are critical areas and subject to the provisions of Chapter 19.15.130 and to be managed consistent with the best available science. Following CCC 19.15.130.E.3 Riparian Habitat Areas (RHAs) shall be established for habitats that include aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems that mutually benefit each other and that are located adjacent to waters of the state. McCorkle Creek is located along the southern parcel boundary and is considered a Type Of water.

The Cowlitz River is located offsite, but within 300 feet of the subject site so following CCCAO Chapter 19.15.130 will also be addressed within this report. The Cowlitz River is considered a Type S water and will be covered under the below shoreline section.

RHA Buffers Type F waters require RHA buffers to protect the waterbody from adjacent development. RHA buffer widths are to be measured horizontally from the OHWM. The standard buffer width for a Type F water (with a channel width less than or equal to 20 feet) is 100 feet following CCC 19.15.130.E.3.d, Table 19.15.130-B Riparian Habitat Areas Stream Type Required RHA Widths. The standard buffer width for McCorkle Creek located along the southern project boundary is therefore 100 feet, Figure 9. A modification of this standard buffer width is allowed when sufficient buffer mitigation is proposed.

Functionally Isolated Buffer Allowance Areas which are functionally separated from a critical area habitat (pre-existing roads, structures, or vertical separation) and do not protect it from adverse impacts shall be treated as functionally isolated buffer areas and excluded from buffers otherwise required by CCC 19.15.130. The existing structures and paved and gravel access roads present near the single-family residence onsite and the flood control North Lexington Subdivision – Cowlitz County, WA Level Two Habitat Assessment (July 2020 update) 7

structure directly offsite act to functionally isolate a portion of the RHA buffer associated with McCorkle Creek. The jurisdictional buffers associated with the onsite RHA will therefore extend to the waterward edge of the functionally isolated area, Figure 10.

Table 1. Critical Area Summary. Classification (Name) Required RHA Width McCorkle Creek 100 feet (Type F Water) (Channel width less than or equal to 20 feet) Cowlitz River 150 feet (Type S Water) (Rural Conservancy Designation) Offsite to east

LISTED SPECIES AND HABITATS IN THE PROJECT VICINITY Following CCC 19.15.130.C.3 Level Two Critical Areas Assessment criteria, the potential presence of any priority species, or endangered, threatened, sensitive, or candidate species that have a primary association with the habitat on or adjacent to the project area (within 300 feet) have been evaluated and presented in Table 2. The evaluation included site reconnaissance, review of aerial photographs, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) SalmonScape website (WDFW 2018), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS 2018) website, National Marine Fisheries Service website (NMFS 2018), and the Washington Department of Natural Resources Natural Heritage website (WDNR 2018). The Cowlitz River and McCorkle Creek are located within 300 feet of the subject parcel and are documented by SalmonScape to contain the following threatened species (Figure 8).

Cowlitz River (offsite) Spring Chinook Salmon (Onchorhynchus tshawytscha) Fall Chinook Salmon (Onchorhynchus tshawytscha) Coho Salmon (Onchorhynchus kisutch) Fall Chum salmon (Onchorhynchus keta) Winter Steelhead (Onchorhynchus mykiss) Summer Steelhead (Onchorhynchus mykiss)

McCorkle Creek (adjacent to project site) Coho Salmon (Onchorhynchus kisutch) Winter Steelhead (Onchorhynchus mykiss)

See Table 2 for listed species details.

Table 2. Endangered, Threatened, Candidate, Sensitive, and Priority Species that have Primary Association with Habitat on or Adjacent to the Project Area. State Federal Critical Habitat4 in Species, ESU1 or DPS2 Status3 Status3 Project Vicinity Fish Lower Columbia River ESU Candidate Threatened Columbia River Chinook Salmon (Onchorhynchus tshawytscha) Lower Columbia River ESU Candidate Threatened Columbia River

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Table 2. Endangered, Threatened, Candidate, Sensitive, and Priority Species that have Primary Association with Habitat on or Adjacent to the Project Area. State Federal Critical Habitat4 in Species, ESU1 or DPS2 Status3 Status3 Project Vicinity Coho Salmon (Onchorhynchus kisutch) Columbia River ESU Candidate Threatened Columbia River Chum salmon (Onchorhynchus keta) Lower Columbia River DPS Candidate Threatened Columbia River Steelhead (Onchorhynchus mykiss) Columbia River DPS Species of Threatened Columbia River Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus) Concern Birds Northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis) Endangered Threatened No Plants Species of Tall bugbane (Actaea elata var. elata) Sensitive No Concern Tall agoseris (Agoseris elata) Sensitive Not listed No Species of Clackamas corydalis (Corydalis aquae-gelidae) Threatened No Concern Pink fawn-lily (Erythronium revolutum) Sensitive Not listed No Western wahoo Sensitive Not listed No (Euonymus occidentalis var. occidentalis) Nuttalls’s quillwort (Isoetes nuttallii) Sensitive Not listed No Hydrothyria lichen (Peltigera hydrothyria) Sensitive Not listed No Loose-flowered bluegrass (Poa laxifloria) Sensitive Not listed No Great polemonium (Polemonium carneum) Threatened Not listed No Soft-leaved willow (Salix sessilifolia) Sensitive Not listed No Listed Nelson’s checker-mallow (Sidalcea nelsoniana) Endangered No Threatened NOTES: 1) ESU - Evolutionarily Significant Unit is a distinct group of Pacific salmon. 2) DPS – Distinct Population Unit. 3) Endangered - In danger of becoming extinct or extirpated; Threatened - Likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range and that has been formally listed as such in the Federal Register under the Federal Endangered Species Act; Sensitive - Vulnerable or declining and could become endangered or threatened in the state. Species of Concern - An unofficial status, the species appears to be in jeopardy, but insufficient information to support listing. 4) WDFW SalmonScape, Figure 8. 5) Project vicinity is defined as within 300 feet of site.

Fish According to the WDFW SalmonScape website and the NMFS website, there are five listed Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) documented within the adjacent waters to the subject site, Table 2 above. ESUs are distinct groups of Pacific salmon. The priority habitat documented for these species is within the Columbia River, for which the Cowlitz is hydrologically connected to. The proposed project does will not directly impact fish habitat. The potential indirect impacts due to modification of the buffer width will be offset and mitigated for by the enhancement and upgrade in functions of the onsite riparian corridor associated with McCorkle Creek. Therefore, the project will not negatively impact fish habitat.

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Birds Northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina) There are no known occurrences of the northern spotted owl near the project site and none observed during the site visit. Spotted owls are strongly associated with structurally complex forest. Such forests are generally old growth, but the owls also use mature and some younger-aged forests. The subject site and adjacent parcels do not contain mature forest sufficient to support the spotted owl.

Rare Plant and Lichen Species The National Heritage Program (NHP) does not map rare plants on the subject parcel, Appendix B-1. The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife does not map Priority Habitat on the subject parcel, Appendix B-2. The following rare plants are listed by Washington Natural Heritage Rare Plants and Nonvasculars – Cowlitz County (WDNR 2018) as potentially present within Cowlitz County.

Tall bugbane (Actaea elata var. elata) There are no known occurrences of tall bugbane documented near the project site and none was observed during the site visit. Only one historical occurrence of this species was documented (prior to 1977) in the westernmost portion of Cowlitz County. This species typically grows at the edge or within open spaces of mature forests at low elevations (mostly below 600 feet; WDNR 2009). This species has the potential to be located within gaps in the forested vegetation onsite, but unlikely due to the density of invasive species present in the understory.

Tall agoseris (Agoseris elata) There are no known occurrences of tall agoseris documented near the project site and none was observed during the site visit. There are fewer than 50 small population occurrences documented in Washington state. This species occurs in areas with little to no canopy cover and is assumed to be shade-intolerant. Ideal elevations for the species to be located range from 500 to 7,800 feet above sea level. The habitat potential for this species within the regularly mowed pasture of the project area is extremely low.

Clackamas corydalis (Corydalis aquae-gelidae) There are no known occurrences of Clackamas corydalis near the project site and none was observed during the site visit. This species occurs in or near cold, flowing water, including seeps and small streams; often occurring in stream channels. Moist shady woods, primarily in the Western hemlock (Tsuga hererophylla) and silver fir (Abies amabilis) zones. It prefers intermediate levels of overstory canopy closure, providing enough light for flowering and reproduction, yet not so much light that a dense cover of shrubs develops. Ideal elevations for the species to be located range from 1250 feet to 4200 feet above sea level. The habitat potential for this species does exist along McCorkle Creek, yet unlikely due to the density of invasive species present in the understory.

Pink fawn-lily (Erythronium revolutum) There are no known occurrences of pink fawn-lily near the project site and none was observed during the site visit. This species occurs in high-precipitation areas within 100 km of the coast; in moist soil in open or moderately shaded forests but requires full light at ground level. Washington habitats include swampy western redcedar (Thuja plicata) – lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) forestes, Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) woods on consolidated sand dunes, Sitka spruce-western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) forests, and shaded river bottoms. Ideal elevations for the species to be located range from 100 feet to 600 feet above sea level. The habitat potential for this species onsite is very low due to the distance from the coast, and the lack of full sun across the herbaceous layer within the forested understory onsite. The high density of Himalayan blackberry generally shades out the herbaceous layer in this area.

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Western wahoo (Euonymus occidentalis var. occidentalis) This species grows in woods, often in shaded, moist ravines and draws (WDNR 2009). This species was not observed within the forested area onsite and the habitat potential for this species within the regularly mowed pasture of the project area is extremely low. The previous common name of this species was burning bush.

Nuttalls’s quillwort (Isoetes nuttallii) There are no known occurrences of Nuttall’s quillwort near the project site and none was observed during the site visit. This species occurs in seasonally wet ground, seepages, temporary streams, and mud near vernal pools. Associated species include Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia), Oregon crabapple (Malus fusca), rose spirea (Spiraea douglasii), Nootka rose (Rosa nutkana), reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea), camas (Camassia quamash), saxifrage (Saxifraga spp.), clover (Trifolium spp.), annual hairgrass (Deschampsia danthonioides), bulbous bluegrass (Poa bulbosa), true babystars (Leptosiphon biocolor), and rushes (Juncus bufonius and others). Ideal elevations for the species to be located range from 200 feet to 345 feet above sea level. The habitat potential for this species onsite is low to moderate due to the low elevation and presence of stream. However, the associated vegetation species necessary for the ideal habitat are not present onsite, with the exception of reed canarygrass. The reed canarygrass combined with the high density of Himalayan blackberry and English ivy along the creek understory generally chokes out any other delicate herb from establishing itself onsite.

Hydrothyria lichen (Peltigera hydrothyria) There are no known occurrences of Hydrothyria lichen near the project site and none was observed during the site visit. This species occurs in aquatic habitats including mountain streams and springs especially those without marked seasonal fluctuations. It grows on rock and gravel, rarely on wood. The presence of this lichen indicates good water quality. The habitat potential for this species onsite is very low due to the lack of rock and gravel substrate within the onsite stream habitat required for the species to attach and grow.

Loose-flowered Bluegrass (Poa laxiflora) There are no known occurrences of loose-flowered bluegrass within the vicinity of the project site and none was observed during the site visit. This species is considered very rare throughout its range. This species occurs near moss-covered rocks and logs, along stream and rivers, and on edges of wet meadows in moist, shady woods. Ideal elevations for the species to be located range from 50 feet to 3500 feet above sea level. Associated species include red alder (Alnus rubra), red elderberry (Sambucus racemosea), buttercup (Ranunculus uncinatus), sword fern (Polystichum munitum), monkeyflower (Mimulus dentatus), littleleaf miner’s-lettuce (Montia parvifolia), and grasses (Festuca subulate, Glyceria grandis, Phalaris arundinacea, and others). The habitat potential for this species onsite is low to moderate due to the low elevation and presence of stream. However, the associated vegetation species necessary for idea habitat are not present onsite.

Great polemonium (Polemonium carneum) There are no known occurrences of great polemonium near the project site and none was observed during the site visit. This species occurs in woody thickets, moist open forests, meadows, prairie edges, roadsides, and along fence rows. Sites are sunny to somewhat shaded, with damp humuslike soil. Ideal elevations for the species to be located range from 150 feet to 2000 feet above sea level. Associated species include Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menzisii), red alder (Alnus rubra), big-leaf maple (Acer macrophyllum), snowberry (Polystichum munitum), bracken (Pteridium aquilinum), toughleaf iris (Iris tenax), western columbine (Aquilegia Formosa), woolly sunflower (Eriophyllum lanatum), pale bellflower (Campanula scouleri), and serrulate beardtongue (Penstemon serrulatus). The habitat potential for this

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species onsite is low as the onsite forested area does not contain moist soils. The associated species present onsite include Douglas-fir and snowberry, however these species are believed to have been planted onsite.

Soft-leaved willow (Salix sessilifolia) Soft-leaved willow is found in a variety of lowland habitats including riparian forest and in dredge spoils (WDNR 2009). This willow species prefers flashy riparian waters. This species was not observed during the site visit and the habitat potential for this species within the regularly mowed pasture of the project area is extremely low.

Nelson’s checker-mallow (Sidalcea nelsoniana) There are no known occurrences of Nelson’s checker-mallow near the project site and none was observed during the site visit. This species is rare throughout its range and occurs in low-elevation meadows, prairie or grassland, along fencerows, streams, and roadsides, drainage swales, and edges of plowed fields adjacent to wooded areas. Standing water is present at some sites. Associated species include western buttercup (Ranunculus occidentalis), sedges (Carex spp.), tall fescue (Schedonorus pratensis), common velvetgrass (Holcus lanatus), common rush (Juncus effuses), and oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare). The habitat potential for this species onsite is moderate due to the low elevation, and presence of stream and pasture flanked by forested area. The associated vegetation species are not present onsite.

Critical Habitat The project site generally does not contain the critical habitat attributes needed to sustain the above listed species and therefore it is highly unlikely that they would be present onsite. Therefore, the potential for their presence is very low. The findings of a site reconnaissance determined that these species were not present. Further, the proposed residential subdivision will not impose direct impacts to the adjacent waterbody (McCorkle Creek) or forested habitat. The subdivision is proposed a significant distance away from the largest adjacent waterbody (Cowlitz River) and located west of Westside Highway and the flood control berm which acts to functionally isolate the project site from the Cowlitz River. With the priority habitat for the salmonid species is within the Columbia River, the Cowlitz River has the highest potential for critical fish species due to its connection to the larger Columbia River. However with the Cowlitz River not located immediately adjacent to the project site, and with a total blockage present at the flood control structure between McCorkle Creek and the Cowlitz River there is very little to no potential for the project to directly impact the salmonid species potentially present within the Cowlitz River. This blockage prevents any potential Columbia River salmonid species from entering McCorkle Creek.

POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF THE PROJECT ON LISTED SPECIES AND HABITAT Direct Effects No direct impacts to the Type F Water (McCorkle Creek) are anticipated by the proposed residential subdivision onsite. Standard best management practices will be in place prior to construction activities to prevent any potential impacts to the buffer; therefore, there no direct impacts from the project are anticipated.

Indirect Effects Indirect impacts from the project include modification of the riparian buffer width and stormwater outfalls along the northern banks of McCorkle Creek. However, the reduction in buffer width will be mitigated for onsite through intense invasive species management and re-introduction of native plants through an enhancement effort. An engineered stormwater design plan will pre-treat stormwater runoff from the new development and detain before outfall to the creek. The outfall locations will be armored with rock

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but will be enhanced with jute matting and native cuttings to mitigate for the presence of the structures within the buffer. The stormwater treatment, addition of native plantings, and removal of debris and dumping opportunities within the buffer will provide an increase the overall water quality for the McCorkle Creek as well as the Cowlitz River.

Temporary Effects Temporary impacts to the onsite riparian corridor will include underground trenching through four (4) sections of the RHA ranging from 27 to 54 feet in length and 3 feet in width to install the stormwater outfall pipe. This utility installation will be a temporary disturbance to the riparian buffer habitat that will be mitigated for in place by restoring the areas to pre-construction conditions. The trenches will be backfilled with native soils and re-seeded with native grass mix. Temporary noise and dust disturbance from construction activities may also temporarily occur. However, the standard best management practices will be in place prior to and during construction activities to prevent and minimize the potential temporary impacts to the buffer.

PROTECTION PLAN Mitigation Goal The mitigation goal is to compensate for a reduction in the base buffer width of the onsite RHA for McCorkle Creek by providing a reduced and enhanced RHA buffer. The buffer enhancement will restore the currently highly degraded buffer as well as mitigate for the modified buffer width.

Mitigation Strategy The loss of the RHA width will be compensated for by providing a higher functioning buffer within a narrower width. The functions and values will be upgraded onsite by removal of invasive species, refuse and enhancement of native trees and shrubs within an area dominated by invasive species and grasses.

Mitigation Sequencing The project design has avoided direct impacts to the jurisdictional waters present on and directly offsite. No direct impacts are proposed below the OHWM of McCorkle Creek. Direct impacts to the RHA (buffer) have been minimized to the full extent practical. The project design avoids impacts to the existing native vegetation present within the RHA, as retention of the mature trees and snags present is proposed. The native forested cover present along McCorkle Creek riparian corridor will be increased beyond its current width onsite, invasive species and refuse removed, and native vegetation enhancement and restoration will occur across the proposed RHA habitat to offset the reduction in RHA (buffer) width.

RHA Buffer Modification (of the Outer 50% of the RHA) The base buffer width required for a Type F water (McCorkle Creek) is 100 feet. The existing native shrub understory and forested corridor present onsite ranges between 25 to 30 feet in width, as measured onsite. Beyond this width the buffer is generally dominated by pasture grasses. The invasive species present within the vegetated RHA will be removed and replaced with native vegetation. The proposed riparian buffer enhancement area will range in width between 50 and 75 feet, with an average width of 58 feet along the entire RHA onsite associated with McCorkle Creek. This proposal will therefore effectively expand and the existing native vegetated buffer width present by an additional 25 to 40 feet, respectfully. The enhanced buffer will therefore provide a wider and higher functioning buffer habitat than currently present onsite. The proposal will also provide greater functions including greater vertical and horizontal vegetation structure and denser native plantings than a 100-foot base buffer alone would provide. If the outer 50-75 feet of the RHA would remain pasture grass. Additionally, no invasive species removal or refuse removal would occur. North Lexington Subdivision – Cowlitz County, WA Level Two Habitat Assessment (July 2020 update) 13

The current RHA is degraded partially due to human disturbance from multiple trails, temporary stream crossings and debris dumping. The proposal includes a dedicated pedestrian trail along the outer northern perimeter of the buffer enhancement area. This trail will serve a second function as an access road for the local diking district, where none is currently present. Access is required to better maintain the flood control structures and release valves located along the reach of McCorkle Creek directly south of the subject site, Figure 9. There was an existing CDID maintenance easement in this location, but no improved access was ever developed. Instead of considering this a design constraint, the project incorporated this easement into the overall buffer mitigation plan to better define the northern extent of the proposed riparian buffer enhancement area and provide dedicated public access along the creek. The proposed pedestrian trail and maintenance easement will be located outside of the 50 to 75-foot modified and enhanced buffer, which is also considered the outer 50-percent of the base RHA buffer width of 100 feet. This meets the provision under CCC 19.15.130.E.5.g for Roads, Trails, Bridges and Rights-of-Way within the RHA. The plan also includes the removal of refuse consisting of tires, lumber and miscellaneous debris located within the buffer and along the OHWM of the creek. The removal of this refuse prior to the enhancement will provide an additional functional uplift across the riparian habitat buffer.

The overall RHA modification and mitigation effort will provide a more effective buffer for wildlife protection, habitat, forage than currently present and will also provide a more effective buffer between the proposed residential subdivision than the standard 100-foot buffer alone.

RHA Impact (Within the Inner 50% of RHA) There are four stormwater outfalls proposed within the onsite buffer of McCorkle Creek. The outfall structures are labeled “energy dissipater” on the site plan and will cover approximately 60 square feet. The total buffer impact for the four energy dissipaters proposed is 240 square feet. The energy dissipaters with consist of rock outfall pads necessary to prevent erosion along the stream bank and help attenuate the flow of the treated stormwater before entering the creek. The structures will consist of rock atop erosion control fabric with a footprint of 3 feet wide, 5 feet long and 10 feet wide, Figure 10 detail.

The rock is considered a direct impact to the inner RHA but will be mitigated for by covering the impervious footprint (rock) with natural jute matting, packing the voids between the rocks with native soils, covering the rock with jute matting and installing willow cuttings through the jute matting. The jute matting will mask the impervious surface from wildlife, help to disperse the flow more delicately, help to cool the rock surface and help to keep the willow cuttings in place until they root to a sufficient depth to sustain growth. The willow is a fast-growing woody species that will provide vegetated cover over the rock effectively mitigating “in place” for the introduction of impervious surface within the RHA. This minimal impact is unavoidable and will be mitigated for in place, as not to degrade the functions or values of the associated RHA habitat and meet the criteria under CCC 19.15.130.E.5.j for Stormwater Management Facilities (and dispersion outfalls).

Table 3. RHA Modification, Impacts and Mitigation. RHA Modification RHA Mitigation Proposed Reduction of 100-ft Base Buffer Width to Invasive Species Removal and Riparian Buffer 50-75 ft. Enhanced Buffer Enhancement of Degraded RHA = 68,132 sf RHA Impact Energy Dissipaters (x4) = 240 sf Jute Mat & Willow Cutting Enhancement = 240 sf

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RHA BUFFER ENHANCEMENT AREA The onsite riparian buffer enhancement area is located directly north of the McCorkle Creek habitat corridor, along the southern boundary of the subject site. The vegetation present consists of a narrow band of trees dominated by an understory densely covered in invasive species. The existing native shrub understory and forested corridor present onsite ranges between 25 to 30 feet in width, as measured onsite. The invasive species present within the existing vegetated RHA will be controlled by an intensive phased site prep and maintenance plan. Site prep will include manual mowing followed by herbicide application due to the density of the invasive cover within this area.

The native forested and scrub-shrub buffer enhancement within the outer portion of the buffer will be initiated first as it requires the least amount of site prep and invasive species management. After the phased invasive species management has been determined successful, the existing forested understory will be enhanced with native shrubs. Tree species within the RHA enhancement area include Douglas-fir and Western red cedar as they will blend with the existing mature species present within the onsite riparian buffer habitat. The enhanced buffer will range from 50 to 75 feet in width and provide approximately 68,132 square feet of high functioning buffer for the onsite RHA in perpetuity, Figure 9.

The addition of native shrub understory within the RHA will increase the level of habitat function and values currently present onsite. Native buffer enhancement is a common mitigation tool (best available science) used to offset buffer modification/impacts within degraded buffer habitats. The buffer shade and stormwater treatment proposed by the enhancement plan will also act to substantially increase the water quality functions for the degraded McCorkle Creek riparian habitat corridor .

Additional Habitat Mitigation Measures The below mitigation measures are further detailed in the specifications sections of this report but are called out here to highlight the additional habitat mitigation measures proposed for the RHA enhancement area. • Posting of approved buffer signage • Financial guarantee acceptable to Planning Director for the proposed mitigation that is adequate to cover the required plant performance and maintenance costs. • Recording of Habitat Conservation Covenant with the County Auditor’s office protecting all habitat areas on the site. • Habitat will be monitored for a period of five (5) years and monitoring reports submitted to the county Planning Director.

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Mitigation Schedule The enhancement effort will be split into five phases to focus on site preparation and invasive species removal prior to initiating the full RHA buffer enhancement. Phase 1 will be initiated prior to project site grading activities in Summer/Fall of 2020. The outer RHA buffer enhancement will be installed first under Phase 2 (Winter of 2021). The inner RHA buffer enhancement is anticipated under Phase 5 (Winter of 2022) dependent on the success of the invasive species management efforts over the prior seasons.

Phase 1 The Phase 1 activities will be initiated prior to the start of project site grading activities. The project grading activities are anticipated to begin over the Summer or Fall of 2020, or the Summer/Fall following permit approvals.

Summer 2020 1. Prior to site grading activities, install temporary construction fencing along the northern boundary of the existing native vegetation to be retained along McCorkle Creek. 2. Install silt fencing along the four (4) stormwater conveyance pipe and outfall locations proposed within the RHA, minimizing impacts to the existing native vegetation present within these areas. 3. Apply first herbicide application to invasive species present (English ivy, English holly and reed canarygrass etc.) within the full extent of the RHA buffer enhancement area (as required). Herbicide application is to be performed by a Washington State certified herbicide applicator. Note: Special aquatic herbicide application focus shall be given to the reed canarygrass near the OHWM of McCorkle Creek due to the low water conditions during the dry season. “Habitat” herbicide is labeled for aquatic sites. Application rate: 0.5 to 1lb ae/a. 3. Initiate project site grading activities and construction of the Flood Control District access road. 4. Remove all existing refuse (tires, lumber and miscellaneous debris) from within the buffer and along the OHWM of McCorkle Creek and dispose of at an approved offsite location. Refuse removal activities must not disturb the native vegetation or soils. 5. Refer to the “Additional English Ivy Control Methods” listed below. 6. Document all management actions within the RHA for As-built and Monitoring Report purposes.

Summer/Fall 2020 1. Post grading and road construction activities, the northern extent of the buffer enhancement area is to be staked and labeled (or temporary construction fencing installed). 2. Apply target herbicide application to Himalayan blackberry within the full extent of the RHA buffer enhancement area (as required). Target application time is between September and October when canes are actively growing and after berries have formed. Fall treatments must be made before a killing frost, and re-treatment will be required after frost. Application of glyphosate via broadcast at rate of 2.25 to 3 lbs. ae/a, or spot treat using 1% to 1.5% solutions. 3. Once the English ivy appears suppressed by the initial herbicide application, the runners found at/around base of native tree trunks are to be cut, bagged, and disposed of at an approved offsite location as the stem and root fragments can re-sprout. Wearing of gloves is recommended to protect hands from the ivy’s irritating sap. Additional English Ivy Control Methods (as Required): • Plants can successfully be pulled from moist soils by hand in fall (or spring). • Ivy stems or roots left in the soil (after initial control efforts) may re-sprout, so continual removal of sprouts may be needed. • Ivy climbing trees can be cut from waist to chest height, pulling the lower part of the stems away from the base of the tree (to kill the upper portions of the vine). The leaves remaining in the tree on the cut stems will slowly die and fall off.

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• Herbicide Application: Triclopyr amine (Garlon 3A, Brush-B-Gone, or Brush Killer) or triclopyr ester (Garlon 4, Pathfinder, or Vinex) or glyphosate (Accord, Glypro, or Rodeo). Application Rate: At least 41% active ingredient (3 lb ae or 4 lb ai) glyphosate • Herbicide Application Methods: Basal Bark Application Method: Apply 33% dilution of triclopyr or glyphosate to exposed stems after stripping the leaves from stems near ground level. Cut Stem Application (most effective method): Cut each vine stem close to the ground and treat freshly cut surfaces (preferably within 5 minutes) with a 33% solution of triclopyr amine or glyphosate mixed in water. Do not dilute products such as Brush-B-Gone and Brush Killer. Roundup Pro Concentrate (50.2% formulation) may be diluted with water. Foliar Application: From summer to fall, foliar-apply a 2 to 5% solution of triclopyr ester mixed in water with a nonionic surfactant. Fully coat foliage. Some control may be possible with glyphosate as a 2 to 4% dilution using at least a 41% (3 lb ae or 4 lb ai glyphosate) but repeat applications will probably be necessary. Broadcast applications of triclopyr will cause less damage to desirable grasses (Pacific Northwest Weed Management Handbook). 4. Re-seed the temporary impact areas associated with the four (4) stormwater conveyance pipe and outfall locations within the RHA. See Table 4 for seed mix specifications. 5. Document all management actions within the RHA for As-built and Monitoring Report purposes.

Fall 2020 1. Re-seed the northern extent of the RHA buffer enhancement area where grading took place along the pedestrian path/Flood Control District access road (as required). 2. Install permanent signs posted at an interval of one per lot or within sight distance of each other, whichever is less, and must be maintained by the property owner in perpetuity. Following CCC 19.15.170.H.2.a, permanent signs shall be made of an enamel-coated metal face and attached to a metal post, metal fencing or another nontreated material of equal durability or as approved by the Director. The sign shall be worded as follows or with alternative language approved by the Director: “Protected Critical Area Do Not Disturb Contact Cowlitz County Building and Planning Regarding Uses and Restriction” 3. Apply second herbicide application to invasive species present (Himalayan blackberry, English ivy, English holly and reed canarygrass etc.) as identified needed within the full extent of the buffer enhancement area. Herbicide application is to be performed by a Washington State certified herbicide applicator. 4. Document all management actions within the RHA for As-built and Monitoring Report purposes.

Phase 2 Winter 2021 1. Cut back and clear areas dominated by invasive vegetation (suppressed by herbicide application efforts) to the full extent possible utilizing weed-eater to allow for volunteer species native recruitment. 2. Install trees and shrubs as specified as specified by Table 4 and Figure 10 within the outer RHA. 3. Document all management actions within the RHA for As-built and Monitoring Report purposes.

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Phase 3 Spring 2021 1. Perform mowing maintenance as needed within full extent of the RHA buffer enhancement area. 2. Apply third herbicide application to invasive species re-growth (Himalayan blackberry, English ivy, English holly and reed canarygrass etc.) as identified needed within the full extent of the RHA buffer enhancement area. Herbicide application is to be performed by a Washington State certified herbicide applicator. 3. Document all management actions within the RHA for As-built and Monitoring Report purposes.

Phase 4 Fall 2021 1. Apply fourth herbicide application to invasive species re-growth (Himalayan blackberry, English ivy, English holly and reed canarygrass etc.) as identified needed within the full extent of the RHA buffer enhancement area. Herbicide application is to be performed by a Washington State certified herbicide applicator. 2. Document all management actions within the RHA for As-built and Monitoring Report purposes.

Phase 5 Winter 2022 1. Perform inspection of the invasive species dominated areas. If another season of herbicide application is warranted, then put off the remaining RHA buffer enhancement (south of the existing mature vegetation) to the following winter, or until the invasive species cover is less than 20% overall. If it is determined that the invasive species cover is less than 20%, then the remaining RHA buffer enhancement is to move forward. 2. Install remaining trees and shrubs as specified by Table 4 within the RHA buffer enhancement area located south of the existing mature treeline. 3. Document all management actions within the RHA for As-built and Monitoring Report purposes.

Specifications for Planting The plants specified for the on-site mitigation are designed to diversify the existing plant community, provide cover and wildlife habitat on a short- and long-term basis, and improve water quality functions. Plants will be installed in mono-specific groups to better mimic the natural environment and to enhance species survival and spaced to allow for the annual mowing maintenance of invasive species (as necessary). To further reduce invasive plant competition and help maintain moisture content of soil for the new plantings, woody mulch is recommended around the base of each planting. To reduce herbivory, mesh protection netting is recommended for the trunks of each tree planting. See Table 4 for native plant species selection, spacing, stock/size, and quantity for the on-site mitigation area. Reasoning for the plant stock size, spacing and quantities specified is provided below for each buffer mitigation area proposed.

Forested Riparian Buffer These plantings will be installed within the outer/northern portion of the proposed RHA buffer where there currently is a lack of forested cover. Larger planting stock is specified to provide an immediate increase in the vertical structure and habitat function for the RHA buffer habitat. The larger plant stock will also provide an aesthetic element to the northern buffer boundary and allow the new plantings to better compliment the adjacent mature trees. Spacing is based on the large stock size specified.

Shrub Enhancement within the Forested Riparian Buffer Enhancement Area These shrub plantings will complement the above Forested Riparian Buffer within portions of the proposed RHA buffer where there currently is a lack of forested and scrub-shrub cover. Standard planting

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stock and spacing are specified to provide a dense native understory amongst the new trees planted within the same areas (forested riparian buffer). The removal of invasive species dominating the understory within these areas and enhancement of native shrub species will allow for an increase in habitat functions for the RHA buffer habitat. The specified shrubs will grow quickly forming an intertwining understory layer across the mitigation area.

Shrub Enhancement within Existing Vegetated RHA These shrub plantings will complement the understory of the existing vegetated riparian buffer, providing native scrub-shrub cover where it has historically been dominated by invasive species. These plantings will be installed after an intensive site prep effort to control the invasive species cover. Standard planting stock at a reduced spacing are specified for this area of understory enhancement. The plantings will fill in voids identified within the existing native vegetation present and will replace areas previously dominated by invasive species cover. The removal of invasive species dominating the understory and enhancement of native shrub species will allow for an increase in habitat functions for the RHA buffer habitat. The specified shrubs will grow quickly forming an intertwining understory layer across the mitigation area.

Enhancement of Reed Canary Grass Dominated Areas Along McCorkle Creek These shrub cuttings will be installed after an intensive site preparation and herbicide application activities. The willow will provide a dense native scrub-shrub cover over areas historically dominated by Reed canarygrass along the OHWM of McCorkle Creek. The quantity of willow cuttings required was calculated based on the linear feet of creek frontage that McCorkle Creek has across the project site (1,200 feet). The standard spacing of 3 feet for cuttings is proposed, as was the standard stock size. The cuttings will be installed within groups as required along the OHWM of McCorkle Creek post reed canarygrass control efforts. The total quantity of willow cuttings required to adequately cover and eventually shade out the reed canarygrass may need to be updated after the areas have been formally identified onsite and prepared for planting.

Stormwater Outfall Energy Dissipater Rock Pads These shrub cuttings will be installed within the stormwater outfall structures to mask the impervious rock surface, provide habitat structure, and shade the rock surface allowing a reduction in water temperature prior to release into McCorkle Creek. The cuttings will be installed within groups of ten (10) at each of the four (4) outfall locations proposed.

Plant Materials Bareroot Stock 1. Bareroot species will be purchased from a native plant nursery. 2. Bareroot stock will be a minimum size of 18- to 36-inches tall. 3. Bareroot stock will be kept cool and moist prior to being planted. 4. The bareroot stock will have well-developed roots and sturdy stems with an appropriate root-to- shoot ratio. 5. No damaged or desiccated roots or diseased plants will be accepted. 6. Unplanted bareroot stock will be properly stored at the end of each planting day to prevent desiccation. 7. The environmental consultant will be responsible for inspecting bareroot stock and culling unacceptable plant materials prior to and during planting.

Container Stock 1. Container stock will be purchased from a local native plant nursery. 2. The plants will have well developed roots and sturdy stems.

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3. No damaged or diseased plants will be accepted. 4. All plants will be kept cool and moist prior to installation. 5. Unused plants will be properly stored at the end of each planting day.

Planting Schedule Planting is projected in phases between the Winter 2020 and Winter 2022

Table 4. RHA Planting Specifications. Scientific Name Common Name Stock Type Spacing Quantity (Facultative Status) (on center) Forested Riparian Buffer Enhancement (13,806 sf) Western red cedar Thuja plicata (FAC) 5-gallon container 20 feet 18 5-gallon container 20 feet Douglas-fir Pseudotsuga menzisii (FACU) 18

Note: Spacing is greater due to larger stock size. Total = 36 Shrub Enhancement w/in Forested Riparian Buffer Enhancement Area (13,806 sf) 1-gallon container or 6 feet Beaked hazelnut Corylus cornuta (FACU) 80 18-24” bare root 1-gallon container or 6 feet Red elderberry Sambucus racemose (FACU) 80 18-24” bare root 1-gallon container or 6 feet Common snowberry Symphoricarpos albus (FACU) 80 18-24” bare root Holly leaved barberry 1-gallon container or 6 feet Mahonia aquifolium (FACU) 80 (Oregon grape) 18-24” bare root Acer circinatum (FAC) 1-gallon container or 6 feet Vine maple 80 18-24” bare root Note: Spacing will allow establishment of a dense understory. Total = 400 Shrub Enhancement w/in Existing Vegetated RHA (68,132 sf – 13,806 sf = 54,326 sf) 1-gallon container or 20 feet Red elderberry Sambucus racemose (FACU) 35 18-24” bare root 1-gallon container or 20 feet Common snowberry Symphoricarpos albus (FACU) 35 18-24” bare root Holly leaved barberry 1-gallon container or 20 feet Mahonia aquifolium (FACU) 35 (Oregon grape) 18-24” bare root 1-gallon container or 20 feet Nootka rose Rosa nutkana (FAC) 35 18-24” bare root Note: Spacing is greater due presence of existing vegetation. Total = 140 Enhancement of Reed Canary Grass Dominated Areas Along McCorkle Creek (1,200 linear feet) Scouler willow Salix scouleriana (FAC) 18-24” cutting 6 feet 200 Note: Quantity based off linear feet of creek frontage. (Additional stock may be required) 200 Total = Stormwater Outfall Energy Dissipater Rock Pads (240 sf) Scouler willow Salix scouleriana (FAC) 18-24” cutting 3 feet 40

Note: 10 willow cuttings to be installed per rock pad. Total = 40 Temporary Impact Areas (Stormwater Pipe Installation) (561 sf) Native Seed Mix Specifications:

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“Native Upland Grass Mix” – or similar:

40% Elymus glaucus (Blue wildrye) 25% Bromus carinatus (California brome) 10% Hordeum brachyantherum (Meadow barley) 10% Festuca romeri (Roemer’s fescue) 10% Deschampsia elongate (Slender hairgrass) 5% Agrostis exerata (Spike bentgrass)

Recommended Seeding Rate: 25 lbs. per acre Note: The “Native Upland Grass Mix” is available from River Refuge Seed Company, LLC.

Planting Methods 1. Plant the specified shrubs and trees over the winter or early sprint at the spacing listed in Table 4. Space the plants somewhat irregularly and in groups to create dense heterogeneity in the mitigation areas, leaving enough space between each group to allow for mowing. Plant the bareroot stock with a tree shovel or comparable tool. 2. Willow cuttings are to be installed 3 feet on center, with eight (10) cuttings installed at each of the four stormwater outfall locations. 3. Place the bareroot species in the planting holes so that their roots extend down entirely and do not bend upward or circle inside the hole. 4. Position the root crowns so that they are at, or slightly above, the level of the surrounding soil. 5. Firmly compact the soil around the planted species to eliminate air spaces. 6. Install woody mulch around the base of planted species to insulate plantings, maintain moisture content of soil and reduce invasive plant competition. 7. Install anti-herbivory devices, such as seedling protection tubes or mesh protection netting, around the stems of planted tree species when appropriate, and secure them with stakes. 8. Irrigate all newly installed plants as site and weather conditions warrant.

Maintenance Plan Maintenance at the on-site mitigation area is a five-year process (following plant installation) and will involve removing persisting invasive plant species in addition to watering and re-installing failed native species, as necessary. The maintenance will include the following activities when necessary: 1. Remove and control non-native vegetation around all newly installed plants. During years 1 through 3 invasive species will be removed and suppressed as often as necessary to meet a performance standard of no greater than 20 percent cover by invasive species, determined by monitoring plot data. 2. Irrigate planted species as necessary during the dry season, approximately July 1 through October 15. Irrigation is recommended to occur on a two-week cycle (minimum) during the dry season for the first three years. Water will be provided by a temporary above-ground irrigation system or a water truck. 3. Replace dead or failed plants as described for the original installation to meet the minimum annual performance standard of 100% survival in the first year, 90% survival in the second year, and 80% survival in years 3-5.

If the mitigation area is failing, or the performance criteria are not met, steps will be taken to rectify the situation in a timely manner. The following steps will be implemented when an area is identified as failing or potentially failing:

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1. Identify the cause(s) of the failure or potential failure 2. Identify the extent of the failure or potential failure 3. Implement corrective actions such as irrigating and replanting 4. Document the activities and include this data in the annual monitoring and maintenance reports 5. If a routine corrective action does not correct the problem, immediately consult with the appropriate agencies for recommendations, and to evaluate solutions to the problem. Implement recommendations in a timely manner.

Monitoring Plan The mitigation site will be monitored for a 5-year period following project construction; monitoring will take place in years 1, 2, 3 and 5. Monitoring reports will be submitted to Cowlitz County by December 31st of each monitored year. The goal of monitoring is to determine if the previously stated performance standards are being met. The mitigation area will be monitored once during the growing season, preferably during the same two-week period each year to better compare the data. The monitoring duration may need to be extended out by additional years depending on when the final plant installation within the phased RHZ buffer enhancement takes place.

During the first annual monitoring and maintenance event, representative sample plots will be selected across the RHA enhancement area and permanently marked with metal posts. A minimum of three sample plots will be established across the on-site enhancement area. Sample plot locations will be placed on an as-built drawing and included in the annual monitoring reports.

Vegetation Vegetative monitoring will document the developing scrub-shrub and forested canopy developing within the on-site RHA enhancement area. The following information will be included at each sample plot:

. Percent cover and frequency of herbaceous species (3.28 feet quadrant) . Percent cover and frequency of sapling/shrub species (10-foot radius) . Percent cover and frequency of tree species (30-foot radius) . Species composition of herbs, shrubs, and trees, including non-native, invasive species . Density and size of standing (snags) and downed, large woody debris (greater than 10-inches in diameter) . Photo documentation of vegetative changes over time

Fauna General observations will be recorded, and photographs will be taken of wildlife during site visits to the mitigation area. Observations of insects and other invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals will be recorded and documented in the annual monitoring reports. Use of the on-site mitigation area by any priority species also will be noted.

Monitoring Report Contents The annual monitoring reports will contain at least the following:

. Location map and as-built drawing. . Historic description of project, including dates of plant installation, current year of monitoring, and restatement of mitigation goals, objectives, and performance standards. . Description of monitoring methods. . Documentation of plant survival, cover, and overall development of the plant communities. . Assessment of non-native, invasive plant species and recommendations for management.

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. Assessment of site hydrology and soils if they appear to be limiting plant survival. . Assessment of buffer conditions, e.g. surrounding land use, use by humans, and use by wild and domestic animals. . Observations of wildlife, including, amphibians, invertebrates, reptiles, fish, birds, and mammals. . Photographs from permanent photo points. . Summary of maintenance and contingency measures proposed for the next season and completed for the past season.

Contingency Plan If the performance standards are not met by the fifth year following project completion, or at an earlier time if specified above, a contingency plan will be developed and implemented. All contingency actions will be undertaken only after consulting and gaining approval from the Cowlitz County. The “North Lexington Subdivision PUD, LLC”, or the subsequent landowner or homeowner’s association will be required to complete a contingency plan that describes (1) the causes of failure, (2) proposed corrective actions, (3) a schedule for completing corrective actions, and (4) whether additional maintenance and monitoring are necessary.

Site protection The on-site mitigation area will be owned and managed by the applicant or assignee. AshEco Solutions, LLC or similar entity will be responsible for supervising the maintenance and conducting the monitoring of the on-site mitigation area for the 5-year period. The applicant will establish and record a permanent and irrevocable conservation covenant on the mitigation property. Signage will be installed the northern perimeter of the onsite RHA and buffer enhancement area to physically protect those areas from human disturbance.

MITIGATION GOALS, OBJECTIVES & PERFORMANCE STANDARDS Mitigation Goal The mitigation goal is to compensate for a reduction in buffer width by providing an enhanced native buffer (50 to 75 feet in width), the full area south of the proposed pathway and the OHWM of McCorkle Creek.

Objectives & Performance Standards

RHA Enhancement Objective 1: Establish a native forested and scrub-shrub riparian habitat within 68,132 square feet of the onsite RHA north of McCorkle Creek.

Performance Standard 1a. Document the removal and/or intense control of invasive species including English ivy, English holly, Himalayan blackberry, and reed canarygrass prior to the native plant installation efforts onsite.

Performance Standard 1b. Document the forested and scrub-shrub RHA plant community installed onsite. Submit As-builts documenting planting locations, plant species, plant quantities, and baseline vegetation data for the established/permanent vegetation monitoring plots.

Performance Standard 1c. In Year 1, planted species are to achieve 100 percent (100%) survival one year after the site is planted. The survival rate is to be determined by comparison of baseline

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vegetation data and the data collected Year 1. (If dead plants are replaced in Year 1 to achieve the 100 percent survival rate, this performance standard will be met).

Performance Standard 1d. In Year 2, plant communities will achieve the following densities: native trees will be 20 feet on-center and native shrubs will be 6 feet on-center generally across the RHA buffer mitigation area.

Performance Standard 1e. In Year 5, the RHA enhancement area will achieve 30-percent (30%) aerial cover of woody species. (If plants are added, that achieve this cover requirement, this performance standard will be met).

Performance Standard 1f. In All Years, non-native/invasive plant species will not exceed 20-percent (20%) aerial cover across the onsite mitigation area.

Maintenance Objective 2: Provide adequate and on-going maintenance to the RHA mitigation area. Performance Standard 2a. Document irrigation (as required) and maintenance efforts and dates of work performed (mowing, herbicide application, refuse removal etc.) in the As-built and annual monitoring reports.

Protection Objective 4: Provide long-term protection for the mitigation area. Performance Standard 4a. Record a conservation covenant with Cowlitz County. This performance standard will be met when the Year 1 monitoring report is submitted that includes a copy of the conservation covenant.

Performance Standard 4b. Install permanent signs posted at an interval of one per lot or within sight distance of each other, whichever is less, and maintain in perpetuity.

Performance Standard Summary

The following table summarizes vegetative performance standards for each of the monitoring years.

Table 5. Performance Standards by Monitoring Year. Habitat Type Performance Standards by Year

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 5

RHA Enhancement Area

Planted Vegetation Survival 100% ------

6-20’ 6-20’ 6-20’

Woody Species Density (on-center) respectively respectively respectively --- (on center) (on center) (on center)

Woody Species Aerial Cover --- 10% 20% 30%

Invasive Plant Species

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Invasive/Non-native plant species < 10% < 20% < 20% < 20%

CONCLUSIONS The proposed onsite RHA enhancement area will rectify the degraded habitat present and expand the native vegetation along the northern bank of McCorkle Creek providing a more extensive and diverse habitat for the Type F water to be preserved in perpetuity. The stormwater will be pre-treated and no indirect impacts to the water quality of the creek or the function of the RHA are anticipated. Direct impacts to the regulated waters and RHA have been avoided, and indirect impacts minimized to the full extent practical. Onsite mitigation is anticipated to offset the proposed modification of the RHA buffer and potential indirect impacts to the RHA. Due to the avoidance of direct impacts and mitigation proposed onsite, the listed fish species in the adjacent waters will not be impacted by the project. The required habitat for the listed rare plant and bird species identified for Cowlitz County are not located within the onsite RHA, nor within the proposed project footprint within the open field portion of the site. The proposed residential subdivision will not adversely impact the onsite critical areas or adjacent properties and will not only protect the integrity of the existing functions and values of the onsite RHA habitat but improve them through the proposed enhancement effort.

DISCLAIMER This report documents the investigation, best professional judgment, and conclusions of the investigator. It is correct and complete to the best of our knowledge. It should be considered a preliminary delineation and used at your own risk until it has been reviewed and approved in writing by the local agency with jurisdiction over the site. AES personnel base the above listed conclusions on standard scientific methodology and best professional judgment.

North Lexington Subdivision – Cowlitz County, WA Level Two Habitat Assessment (July 2020 update) 25

REFERENCES Cowlitz County. December 2016. Critical Areas Ordinance Chapter 19.15.130; Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas.

Federal Register. 2005. Endangered and Threatened Species; Designation of Critical Habitat for 12 Evolutionarily Significant Units of West Coast Salmon and Steelhead in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho; Final Rule. Volume 70. Number 170. 50 CFR Part 226. September 2.

National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). August 11, 2017. NOAA Fisheries Northwest Regions Critical Habitat Designations for West Coast Salmon and Steelhead in Washington. http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/Salmon-Habitat/Critical-Habitat/upload/WA-ESU-MAP.pdf. Accessed July 2018.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). April 2018. Listed and Proposed Endangered and Threatened Species and Critical Habitat; Candidate Species; and species of Concern in Cowlitz County. USFWS Western Washington Fish and Wildlife Office. http://www.fws.gov/westwafwo/speciesmaps/COWLITZ.html. Accessed July 2018.

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). 2012. SalmonScape. http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/mapping/salmonscape.index.html. Accessed July 2018.

Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). July 11, 2018. Washington Natural Heritage Information System List of Known Occurrences of Rare Plants in Washington, Cowlitz County. Natural Heritage Program. http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/plants.html. Accessed July 2018.

Washington Department of Natural Resources, National Heritage Program (NHP). https://www.dnr.wa.gov/NHPwetlandviewer. Accessed July 2018.

Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). 2009. Washington Natural Heritage Program Field Guide to Selected Rare Plants. http://www.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/fguide/htm/4sinetst.htm.. Accessed July 2018.

Washington Natural Heritage Program and Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Field Guide to the Rare Plants of Washington. 2011. Available at: https://www.dnr.wa.gov/NHPfieldguide. Accessed July 2018.

Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). 2018. Washington Natural Heritage Rare Plants and Nonvasculars – Cowlitz County.

North Lexington Subdivision – Cowlitz County, WA Level Two Habitat Assessment (July 2020 update) 26 SITE 8.4.2016

NOTE(S): USGS, KELSO QUADRANGLE WASHINGTON-OREGON 7.5 MINUTE SERIES (TOPOGRAPHIC)

PURPOSE: Proposed Single Family SITE LOCATION MAP PROPOSED: Proposed Single Family Subdivision Subdivision DATUM: NAVD 88 APPLICANT: North Lexington PUD, LLC. IN: Kelso, WA ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: PROJECT NAME: North Lexington Subdivision NEAR: Lexington COUNTY: Cowlitz STATE: WA Sec: 10 Town: 8N Range: 2W REFERENCE #: SHEET: Figure 1 SITE LOCATION ADDRESS: Westside Hwy DATE: 2-28-18 C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2018\July 2018\Lexington_BM-072318.dwg WA STATE: Single Family Subdivision Cowlitz Figure 2 Lexington 7-25-18 Kelso, WA COUNTY: SHEET: PROPOSED: IN: NEAR: DATE: NE Delfel Rd. North Lexington Subdivision Parcel XX North Lexington PUD, LLC. AERIAL SITE MAP AND TOPOGRAPHY APPLICANT: SITE LOCATION ADDRESS: PROJECT NAME: REFERENCE #: 2W 8.4.2016

WEST SIDE HIGHWAY Range:

100' 8N Town: Subdivision Proposed Single Family NAVD 88 10 ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: See Attached Map Sec: LEGEND: PURPOSE: DATUM:

Site Boundary Type F Stream (100' Buffers) Tax Lot Lines Stream Channel is 20' or less in width Stream Stream Buffer Top of Slope N Note: Base map provided by PLS Engineering. A portion of the 100 ft. base riparian buffer is functionally isolated and excluded from the buffers otherwise required cy CCC 19.15.130. C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2018\July 2018\Lexington_BM-072318.dwg N 8.4.2016

LEGEND:

Site Boundary Note: Note: Map provided by 32 - Clato silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes. https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/

PURPOSE: Proposed Single Family SOIL SURVEY MAP PROPOSED: Proposed Single Family Subdivision Subdivision DATUM: NAVD 88 APPLICANT: North Lexington PUD, LLC. IN: Kelso, WA ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: PROJECT NAME: North Lexington Subdivision NEAR: Lexington COUNTY: Cowlitz STATE: WA Sec: 10 Town: 8N Range: 2W REFERENCE #: SHEET: Figure 3 SITE LOCATION ADDRESS: Westside Hwy DATE: 7-25-18 C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2018\July 2018\Lexington_BM-072318.dwg N 8.4.2016

LEGEND:

Site Boundary Note: Note: Map provided by USFWS NWI Maper at https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/Data/Mapper.html No Wetlands Mapped On-site

PURPOSE: Proposed Single Family NATIONAL WETLANDS INVENTORY MAP PROPOSED: Proposed Single Family Subdivision Subdivision DATUM: NAVD 88 APPLICANT: North Lexington PUD, LLC. IN: Kelso, WA ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: PROJECT NAME: North Lexington Subdivision NEAR: Lexington COUNTY: Cowlitz STATE: WA Sec: 10 Town: 8N Range: 2W REFERENCE #: SHEET: Figure 4 SITE LOCATION ADDRESS: Westside Hwy DATE: 7-25-18 C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2018\July 2018\Lexington_BM-072318.dwg N 8.4.2016

McCorkle Creek (Type F Water)

LEGEND:

Site Boundary Note: Map provided by DNR Mapping Toll: F F Type Stream https://fpamt.dnr.wa.gov/default.aspx#

PURPOSE: Proposed Single Family DNR STREAM TYPE MAP PROPOSED: Proposed Single Family Subdivision Subdivision DATUM: NAVD 88 APPLICANT: North Lexington PUD, LLC. IN: Kelso, WA ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: PROJECT NAME: North Lexington Subdivision NEAR: Lexington COUNTY: Cowlitz STATE: WA Sec: 10 Town: 8N Range: 2W REFERENCE #: SHEET: Figure 5 SITE LOCATION ADDRESS: Westside Hwy DATE: 7-25-18 C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2018\July 2018\Lexington_BM-072318.dwg N

SUBJECT SITE 8.4.2016

LEGEND:

Site Boundary

Note: Map provided by Cowlitz County Shoreline Master Plan, Appendix A PURPOSE: Proposed Single Family SHORELINE DESIGNATION MAP PROPOSED: Proposed Single Family Subdivision Subdivision DATUM: NAVD 88 APPLICANT: North Lexington PUD, LLC. IN: Kelso, WA ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: PROJECT NAME: North Lexington Subdivision NEAR: Lexington COUNTY: Cowlitz STATE: WA Sec: 10 Town: 8N Range: 2W REFERENCE #: SHEET: Figure 6 SITE LOCATION ADDRESS: Westside Hwy DATE: 7-25-18 C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2018\July 2018\Lexington_BM-072318.dwg N 8.4.2016

SUBJECT SITE

LEGEND: Note: Map provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency Site Boundary (FEMA) Map Number 53015C0508G, Cowlitz County, Washington

PURPOSE: Proposed Single Family FEMA FLOOD MAP PROPOSED: Proposed Single Family Subdivision Subdivision DATUM: NAVD 88 APPLICANT: North Lexington PUD, LLC. IN: Kelso, WA ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: PROJECT NAME: North Lexington Subdivision NEAR: Lexington COUNTY: Cowlitz STATE: WA Sec: 10 Town: 8N Range: 2W REFERENCE #: SHEET: Figure 7 SITE LOCATION ADDRESS: Westside Hwy DATE: 7-25-18 C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2018\July 2018\Lexington_BM-072318.dwg N Total Blockage - Flood Control SUBJECT SITE

Cowlitz River 8.4.2016

McCorkle Creek

LEGEND: Note: Map provided by SalmonScape online at ​ Site Boundary http://apps.wdfw.wa.gov/salmonscape/map.html

PURPOSE: Proposed Single Family SALMONSCAPE MAP PROPOSED: Proposed Single Family Subdivision Subdivision DATUM: NAVD 88 APPLICANT: North Lexington PUD, LLC. IN: Kelso, WA ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: PROJECT NAME: North Lexington Subdivision NEAR: Lexington COUNTY: Cowlitz STATE: WA Sec: 10 Town: 8N Range: 2W REFERENCE #: SHEET: Figure 8 SITE LOCATION ADDRESS: Westside Hwy DATE: 7-25-18 C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2018\July 2018\Lexington_BM-072318.dwg WA STATE: Single Family Subdivision

N Approx. OHWM of Cowlitz River Cowlitz 150' 9 Lexington (Type S Water) 7-7-20

LEGEND: Designation = Rural Kelso, WA Conservancy (150' Setback per COUNTY: PROPOSED: IN: NEAR: FIGURE: DATE: Site Boundary SMP Table 7-2) Tax Lot Lines Stream Existing Flood Control Structure Stream Buffer NE Delfel Rd. North Lexington Subdivision Parcel XX EXISTING CONDITIONS North Lexington PUD, LLC. APPLICANT: SITE LOCATION ADDRESS: PROJECT NAME: REFERENCE #: 2W

WEST SIDE HIGHWAY Range: 8.4.2016

100' 8N Town: Subdivision Proposed Single Family NAVD 88 10 ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: See Attached Map Sec: PURPOSE: DATUM:

Type F Stream (Stream Channel is 20' or less in width) (Standard Buffer = 100')

Note: Base map provided by PLS Engineering C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2020\Lexington_BM-070720.dwg Proposed 24 Unit WA

WEST SIDE HWY Apartment Buildings STATE:

9 Single Family Subdivision Cowlitz N ADA Approx. OHWM of Cowlitz River 10 12 150' 3 Lexington 7 (Type S Water) 7-7-20 4 12

LEGEND: 5 Designation = Rural Kelso, WA 6 12

12 Conservancy (150' Setback per COUNTY: 7 PROPOSED: IN: NEAR: FIGURE: DATE: 7 Site Boundary 8 SMP Table 7-2) 9 ROAD 'C' 5

Tax Lot Lines 5 47 121801 SF

10 7 Existing Flood Control Structure 1 Stream 2 ADA 7 ADA Stream Buffer 33 11 44

Top of Slope ADA 5 32 ADA 34

12 NE Delfel Rd. Back of Lots to be Fenced 43 10

ROAD 'B' ROAD 31 Shrub Buffer Enhancement Area (68,132 sf.) 35 42 28 Temporary Impact: SW Pipe (45' x 3' = 135 sf.)

Forested Buffer Enhancement (13,806 sf.) North Lexington Subdivision Buffer Impact: Outfall w/ Energy Dissipater (60 sf.)

36 Parcel XX

13 PROPOSED SITE PLAN 29 30 North Lexington PUD, LLC. Note: 41 Area of Functionally Isolated RHA Buffer Stormwater pipe installation cooridor is anticipated to 'C' ROAD 50' 37 14 27 be 3' deep and 36" wide. Post installation the trenches 40 will be backfilled with native soil and re-seeded. 38 26 15 APPLICANT: SITE LOCATION ADDRESS:

ROAD 'A' PROJECT NAME: REFERENCE #:

39 25 80' 2W 16 24 Temporary Impact: SW Pipe (57' x 3' = 171 sf.)

23 Buffer Impact: Outfall w/ Energy DissipaterWEST SIDE HIGHWAY (60 sf.)

17 60' Range: 8.4.2016 22 Right-of-way for future road connection

21 (Not proposed by project) 8N 18 19 20 75' Temporary Impact: SW Pipe (57' x 3' = 171 sf.)

Buffer Impact: Outfall w/ Energy Dissipater (60 sf.) Town: Subdivision 55' Proposed Single Family NAVD 88

45 46 10

MULTIFAMILY MULTIFAMILY Open Space TRIPLEX/QUADPLEX TRIPLEX/QUADPLEX ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS: See Attached Map Sec: PURPOSE: DATUM:

55' Proposed Easement

Flood Control District Gravel Access 50' Road/Walking path

Temporary Impact: SW Pipe (28' x 3' = 84 sf.) Buffer Impact: Outfall w/ Energy Dissipater (60 sf.)

New path to connect with existing informal "Energy Dissipater" to consist of rock pedestrian trail in this location. surface (3' x 5' x 10' in size) covered in jute matting and enhanced with native Note: Base map provided by PLS Engineering willow cuttings. C:\Users\Josh\Desktop\Autocad Files\AshECO Autocad\Lexington Subdivision\2020\Lexington_BM-070720.dwg

Appendix A Site Photos

North Lexington Subdivision Site Photos (Photo Date: January 25, 2018)

Photo 1. View west across the central portion of the subject site. The open field is dominated by pasture grasses. Photo taken from Westside Highway.

Photo 2. View west across the central portion of the subject site. Paved driveway that accesses existing residence is visible in lower left of photo.

Photo 3. View north across the eastern extent of the subject site. Paved driveway that accesses existing residence is visible in middle of photo. Westside Highway is visible in upper right of photo.

1

North Lexington Subdivision Site Photos (Photo Date: January 25, 2018)

Photo 4. View west across the eastern terminus of McCorkle Creek. Paved driveway that accesses existing residence is visible in upper right of photo. The riparian buffer in this area is dominated by Himalayn blackberry. The flood control structure is located just outside of this photo at left.

Photo 5. View south across the western side of the flood control structure present just southeast of the subject parcel. McCorkle Creek flows into this structure and is conveyed under Westside Highway before flowing into the Cowlitz River.

Photo 6. View of McCorkle Creek, flowing east toward the flood control structure. The riparian corridor is dominated by Himalayan blackberry.

2

North Lexington Subdivision Site Photos (Photo Date: January 25, 2018)

Photo 7. View down McCorkle Creek riparian corridor. Pink flag denotes the OHWM as flagged by AES and surveyed by Hampstur Corp. The riparian corridor is dominated by Himalayan blackberry and reed canarygrass in this section.

Photo 8. View of tree located within the McCorkle Creek riparian corridor that has been overtaken by invasive English ivy. The tree is dead and now acts as a woody habitat snag. There are several of trees within the corridor that are now snags due to the presence of English ivy.

Photo 9. Representative site photo of the dense Himalayan blackberry cover (bottom of photo) and reed canarygrass (top of photo).

3

North Lexington Subdivision Site Photos (Photo Date: January 25, 2018)

Photo 10. Representative photo of the Himalayan blackberry cover and lack of understory shrubs surrounding the mature conifer trees onsite.

Photo 11. View east along the northern treeline present onsite. The proposed buffer enhancement plantings will be located both outside the existing treeline and within it. Native plants will enhance the understory of the existing forested area and also increase the overall width of the forested corridor.

Photo 12. Photo shows measuring tape sitting 50 feet from the OHWM of McCorkle Creek. The forested vegetation is generally located within the first 25-30 feet north of the creek. The proposed buffer enhancement will increase the native buffer to a width ranging from 50 to 75 feet.

4

North Lexington Subdivision Site Photos (Photo Date: January 25, 2018)

Photo 13. Photo documents the high density of Himalayan blackberry present 25-30 feet north of the McCorkle Creek OHWM. Invasive species removal and native enhancement is proposed within the onsite riparian buffer.

Photos 14 & 15. Photo documents the presence of English ivy and English holly within the riparian buffer.

5

North Lexington Subdivision Site Photos (Photo Date: January 25, 2018)

Photos 16 & 17. Representative photos of McCorkle Creek located directly south of the subject site. The riparian buffer associated with the subject site is located directly above the stream bank at left of photo(s).

6

Appendix B-1 National Heritage Program (NHP) Rare Plants Map

Appendix B-2 WDFW Priority Habitats Map